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(Nicole Heath, Director of Hazardous Materials Programs) Attachments:, , , , Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass 5:0 To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Hearing Regarding an Ordinance Amending the County’s Industrial Safety Ordinance ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: 1.OPEN the public hearing; RECEIVE testimony and public comments; and CLOSE the public hearing. 2.ADOPT Ordinance No. 2024-14. 3.DETERMINE that the adoption of Ordinance No. 2024-14 is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines section 15061(b)(3) because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that this activity could have a significant effect on the environment. 4.DIRECT the Director of Conservation and Development, or designee, to file a CEQA notice of exemption with the County Clerk and the State Clearinghouse. 5.AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to pay the Department of Conservation and Development $25 for processing the notice of exemption, and the County Clerk $50 for filing the notice of exemption. FISCAL IMPACT: There will be no impact to the General Fund. Revenue from the ISO Fees will fund the costs associated with staff time for implementing the amendments. BACKGROUND: On Tuesday October 15, 2019, at approximately 13:48, the NuStar Facility had a fire and explosion involving two ethanol storage tanks. The first tank caught fire at approximately 13:48 and the second tank caught fire shortly thereafter. Prior to the event both tanks were static and contained less than 3,000 barrels of denatured ethanol each. With the exception of routine inspection and monitoring activities by facility personnel and contractors, there was no activity in the tank farm at the time of the fire. The terminal was evacuated. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2788,Version:1 Emergency response vehicles were onsite within minutes and began response by directing water and firefighting foam to mitigate the fire and cool adjacent tanks. A grass fire began on the hillside adjacent to the terminal and was extinguished with the assistance of both fixed and rotary wing aircraft laying down fire suppressant and water. Contra Costa Health (CCH) Hazmat Incident Response team deployed to the scene to perform air monitoring. At 15:11 a Shelter in Place was initiated for the affected community. Interstate 80 was closed in both directions for the duration of the incident. The fire was abated at approximately 19:00 and the Shelter in Place was lifted at 19:38. The fire and explosion destroyed two storage tanks at NuStar, each with an approximate size of 200,000 barrels (8.4 million gallons). After the fire and explosion, a team was put together to investigate the incident. The team was led by Contra Costa County Fire Protection District. The investigation in addition to reviewing the details of the NuStar incident also evaluated similar incidents investigated by the US Chemical Safety and Hazards Investigation Board. The aim of the investigation was to identify the contributing factors of the incident. The incident investigation report identified an electrical fault as the cause of the incident and made the following recommendations: - All automatic level gauge floats and tapes should be grounded in compliance with API 2003 and manufacturer’s recommendations. All gauge devices and transmitters should be grounded in compliance with manufacturer’s recommendations. - Pad the head space in the tanks with an inert gas to mitigate the hazardous atmosphere within the tanks. This should be done in addition to removing all potential ignition sources. - Overall compliance with all agency requirements and standards, including but not limited to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and American Petroleum Institute (API). - Tanks should be monitored for Lower Explosive Limit (LEL) conditions. CCH Hazmat Staff reviewed the incident investigation report conclusions and worked with stakeholders to identify safety program elements which would be beneficial in accidental release prevention for Tank Terminals such as NuStar. Based upon the conclusions, staff recommended to the ISO/CWS Ad Hoc Committee at the May 16, 2022, meeting that a revision be made to the Contra Costa County Industrial Safety Ordinance (ISO) to include Tank Terminals. This recommendation included nine safety program elements for inclusion. Full details are included in the attached staff report. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If the ISO amendments are not approved,a gap would still exist in preventing process safety accidents at tank terminal facilities. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ Page 1 of 6 DISCUSSION ITEM – Industrial Safety Ordinance (ISO) Revisions Staff Report on Revising the ISO to Include Tank Terminals Contra Costa Health Hazardous Materials Programs For the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors September 10, 2024 Page 2 of 6 SUMMARY On Tuesday October 15, 2019, at approximately 13:48, the NuStar Facility had a fire and explosion involving two ethanol storage tanks. The first tank caught fire at approximately 13:48 and the second tank caught fire shortly thereafter. Prior to the event both tanks were static and contained less than 3,000 barrels of denatured ethanol each. With the exception of routine inspection and monitoring activities by facility personnel and contractors, there was no activity in the tank farm at the time of the fire. The terminal was evacuated. Emergency response vehicles were onsite within minutes and began response by directing water and firefighting foam to mitigate the fire and cool adjacent tanks. A grass fire began on the hillside adjacent to the terminal and was extinguished with the assistance of both fixed and rotary wing aircraft laying down fire suppressant and water. CCH Hazmat Incident Response team deployed to the scene to perform air monitoring. At 15:11 a Shelter in Place was initiated for the affected community. Interstate 80 was closed in both directions for the duration of the incident. The fire was abated at approximately 19:00 and the Shelter in Place was lifted at 19:38. The fire and explosion destroyed two storage tanks at NuStar, each with an approximate size of 200,000 barrels (8.4 million gallons). It was determined that CCH Hazmat Staff would work with stakeholders to develop the regulatory framework that requires select process safety programs to be implemented at Tank Terminals. That process is summarized in this staff report. BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS: After the fire and explosion, a team was put together to investigate the incident. The team was led by Contra Costa County Fire Protection District. The investigation in addition to reviewing the details of the NuStar incident also evaluated similar incidents investigated by the US Chemical Safety and Hazards Investigation Board. The aim of the investigation was to identify the contributing factors of the incident. The incident investigation report identified an electrical fault as the cause of the incident and made the following recommendations:  All automatic level gauge floats and tapes should be grounded in compliance with API 2003 and manufacturer’s recommendations. All gauge devices and transmitters should be grounded in compliance with manufacturer’s recommendations.  Pad the head space in the tanks with an inert gas to mitigate the hazardous atmosphere within the tanks. This should be done in addition to removing all potential ignition sources.  Overall compliance with all agency requirements and standards, including but not limited to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and American Petroleum Institute (API).  Tanks should be monitored for Lower Explosive Limit (LEL) conditions. CCH Hazmat Staff reviewed the incident investigation report conclusions and worked with stakeholders to identify safety program elements which would be beneficial in accidental release prevention for Tank Terminals such as NuStar. Based upon the conclusions, staff recommended to the ISO/CWS Ad Hoc Committee at the May 16, 2022, meeting that a revision be made to the Contra Costa County Industrial Safety Ordinance (ISO) to include Tank Terminals. This recommendation included nine safety program elements for inclusion. Table 1 shows each element and a brief justification for inclusion. Page 3 of 6 Table 1. Draft Safety Program Elements The draft ISO amendment includes the following definitions:  "Ignitable liquid" means a flammable liquid or combustible liquid.  “Tank terminal” means at least one field erected tank with a minimum shell capacity of 50,000 gallons that contains a minimum of 10,000 pounds of flammable liquid, or the owner or #PROGRAM CAPTURED WITHIN PROGRAM BASIS RELATION TO INCIDENT 1 Safety Information Understanding the hazards Review of electrical classification areas and design 2 Hazard Review Seismic Assessments Identifying and understanding risk Review of hazard scenarios that could lead to fire/explosion and mitigation of risks of these scenarios 3 Operating Procedures Safe Work Practices (including Hot Work) Develop and maintain clear instructions for safely conducting activities 4 Mechanical Integrity Contractors Ensuring equipment is in good working order, published standards are being followed, and training of personnel Implementation of industry standards via Recognized And Generally Accepted Good Engineering Practices (RAGAGEP) 5 Management of Change Managing changes and ensuring Safety Information, procedures, and practices remain up to date Evaluation of safety risks when making changes to design, technology, equipment, process and mitigation of the risk 6 Pre-Startup Reviews Managing changes and ensuring design, documents, and personnel are up to date Evaluation of safety risks when making changes to design, technology, equipment, process. Ensuing proper fabrication, construction, and installation of equipment prior to start up after a change. 7 Incident Investigation Root Cause Analysis Learning from past incidents 8 Emergency Response Mitigating consequences Requires emergency response coordination (drills) between facility and responding agenciesManagement Systems Page 4 of 6 operator thereof, on one or more contiguous properties.  "Tank terminal activities" mean any activity at a tank terminal involving an ignitable liquid, including but not limited to using, storing, blending, producing, gathering, refining, transferring, distributing, consuming, handling or moving an ignitable liquid.  "Tank terminal equipment" means equipment that is at a tank terminal and involved in tank terminal activities, and such equipment is under the control of the tank terminal owner or operator. This equipment includes, but is not limited to, tanks, pumps, piping, valves, and ancillary equipment. The above definitions address a gap in current Federal, State, and Local accidental release prevention programs by capturing ignitable liquids that were not previously captured such as ethanol. CCH Hazmat has identified 8 facilities that would be subject to the new ISO section for Tank Terminals. Figure 1 shows the approximate locations of each. There is 1 in the City of Martinez, 3 in unincorporated county, and 4 in the City of Richmond. The proposed amendments would impose process safety requirements on select facilities reducing the likelihood of industrial incidents. Modification of existing Tank Terminals or establishment of new Tank Terminals would each be separate discretionary projects subject to review under their own subsequent CEQA analysis. Page 5 of 6 Figure 1: Map of Tank Terminals in Contra Costa County WORKING GROUP: A working group was established to draft proposed language for the Industrial Safety Ordinance which would be applicable to Tank Terminals that met the proposed criteria. The working group is comprised of members from the community, members from facilities who would be covered by the proposed regulations, a representative from existing ISO facilities, agency representatives, and city representatives. This working group met monthly from September 2022 to January 2023 to develop the draft ISO language. After developing the draft language, it was sent to county counsel. UPDATED AMENDMENT: In January 2024, stakeholder meetings began to work on developing a guidance document to assist the Tank Terminals in complying with the requirements. That same month, CCH Hazmat was contacted by county counsel to review and fine tune the draft ISO language. CCH Hazmat met with county counsel as well as with the Department of Conservation and Development to clarify the draft ISO language. Due to the expected changes to the draft ISO language, stakeholder meetings were postponed until revised language was proposed and allowed to be shared. The draft amendment language was finalized in August 2024. Appendix A of this staff report includes a redlined copy of the updated amendment that highlights the changes proposed to the existing language. Page 6 of 6 NEXT STEPS:  Reestablish meetings with stakeholder to develop guidance document Conclusion: In conclusion, staff has determined based on the above analysis that amending the Industrial Safety Ordinance to include tank terminal facilities would afford additional safety and protections against accidental releases from incidents. Staff therefore recommends the following: OPEN the public hearing; RECEIVE testimony and public comments; and CLOSE the public hearing. ADOPT Ordinance No. 2024-14. DETERMINE that the adoption of Ordinance No. 2024-14 is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines section 15061(b)(3) because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that this activity could have a significant effect on the environment. DIRECT the Director of Conservation and Development, or designee, to file a CEQA notice of exemption with the County Clerk and the State Clearinghouse. AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to pay the Department of Conservation and Development $25 for processing the notice of exemption, and the County Clerk $50 for filing the notice of exemption. cchealth.org cchealth.org Nicole A. Heath, Director of Hazardous Materials Programs ISO Tank Terminal Amendments September 10, 2024 cchealth.org NuStar incident –October 2019 CCCFPD completed investigation – May 2021 Developed draft ordinance with stakeholders – February 2023 Reviewed draft ordinance with county counsel –June 2024 History cchealth.org ISO Working Group First Working Group meeting was held September 6, 2022 Working Group is comprised of: CCH Partner Agencies Industry Members Community Members Monthly Meetings discussed language development, changes, and action items. Revisions were brought to the ISO/CWS Ad Hoc Committee for discussion and public input cchealth.org Facility with at least one field erected tank of at least 50,000-gallon shell capacity and contains at least 10,000-pounds of a flammable liquid 8 facilities identified in initial review* 3 in Unincorporated County 1 in City of Martinez 4 in City of Richmond *Contra Costa Health will continue to review facility submittals to determine any additional facilities potentially subject and will add to working group. Applicability cchealth.org Proposed New Tank Terminal Facilities 5 Unincorporated County •SFPP •Shore Terminals •Chevron Products-Avon City of Martinez •TransMontaigne City of Richmond •TransMontaigne •Kinder Morgan •IMTT •P66 Richmond Terminal cchealth.org Safety Programs cchealth.org •Open and close public hearing •Adopt the proposed amendments as stated in Ordinance 2024-14 o Including determination of CEQA Exemption •CCH will continue to work with county counsel and stakeholders through the ordinance process Conclusion cchealth.org cchealth.org Thank You 1 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-14 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-14 (Amendments to Ordinance Code Chapter 450-8 Regarding Industrial Safety) The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors ordains as follows (omitting the parenthetical footnotes from the official text of the enacted or amended provisions of the County Ordinance Code): SECTION I. SUMMARY. This ordinance amends specified sections of County Ordinance Code Chapter 450-8 to impose additional measures to improve industrial safety. This ordinance adds section 450-8.017 concerning tank terminal safety requirements, adds new and amends certain existing definitions to section 450-8.014 to apply to tank terminals, amends multiple sections to expand their application to tank terminals, and makes other clarifying, administrative or non-substantive changes. This ordinance also amends County Ordinance Code section 14- 8.008 by authorizing the Health Services Director to enforce Chapter 450-8 by issuing infraction citations. SECTION II. AUTHORITY. This ordinance is adopted pursuant to Article 11, section 7 of the California Constitution. SECTION III. FINDINGS. On October 15, 2019, an 8.7-million-gallon storage tank containing a small quantity of ethanol exploded at a petroleum tank terminal in the Crockett area of unincorporated Contra Costa County. The tank was one of 23 tanks at the facility, with a collective capacity of more than 3 million barrels. The roof of the tank that exploded blew off and landed on a second tank, which also exploded. A fire erupted at both tanks, and a vegetation fire ignited after the explosions spread over the property, resulting in a large column of smoke that could be seen for miles. Offsite impacts included the closure of Interstate 80, the shelter-in-place of the nearby community, and concerns about air quality in the surrounding area. This incident, like other high-profile incidents at tank terminals in other states, highlight the risks associated with storage and transfer operations involving ignitable materials, and the importance of emergency response planning. Similarly, these incidents highlight the need for effective safety programs to identify hazards, assess and manage risks, and establish safety protocols to prevent accidents and protect the environment and the surrounding communities. Tank terminals within Contra Costa County are not currently subject to the California Accidental Release Prevention Program, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s risk management regulations, or Chapter 450-8 of the County Ordinance Code because tank terminals, and the types of activities that take place there, do not fit the relevant criteria. The lack of adequate safety regulation appliable to tank terminals poses a threat to public health and safety and compel the adoption of the amendments to Chapter 450-8 set forth in this ordinance. 2 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-14 SECTION IV. Chapter 450-8 of the County Ordinance Code is amended to read: Chapter 450-8 - RISK MANAGEMENT 450-8.002 - Background and findings. The board of supervisors of Contra Costa County finds as follows: (a) Recent incidents in Contra Costa County at industrial chemical, petrochemical, and oil industry facilities have prompted the consideration of reviews, inspections, and audits that supplement existing federal and state safety programs and the imposition of additional safety measures to protect public health and safety from accidental releases. (b) Section 112(r)(7) of the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C.A. Section 7412(4)) required the United States Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA") to promulgate the rule known as the "Risk Management Program," which is intended to prevent accidental releases of regulated substances, as defined in the federal program, and reduce the severity of those releases that do occur. All facilities subject to this federal regulation must prepare a risk management plan (RMP) based on a risk management program established at the facility, that includes a hazard assessment of the facility, an accidental release prevention program, and an emergency response program (40 CFR Section 68). The facility must submit the Federal RMP to the EPA by June 21, 1999 (40 CFR Section 68-150-68.185). The federal RMP will be available to state and local government and the public. (c) The California Health and Safety Code Article 2 (Section 25531 et seq.) of Chapter 6.95 was amended effective January 1, 1997, to implement the federal EPA's risk management program rule with certain state-specific amendments. The state's risk management program is known as the California Accidental Release Prevention (CalARP) Program. (d) The county recognizes that regulatory requirements alone will not guarantee public health and safety, and that the public is a key stakeholder in chemical accident prevention, preparedness, and response at the local level. Preventing accidental releases of regulated substances is the shared responsibility of industry, government and the public. The first steps toward accident prevention are identifying the hazards and assessing the risks. Once information about chemical hazards in the community is openly shared, industry, government, and the community can work together towards reducing the risk to public health and safety. (e) The success of a safety program is dependent upon the cooperation of industrial chemical, petrochemical, and oil refining facilities within Contra Costa County. The public must be assured that measures necessary to prevent incidents are being implemented, including changes or actions required by the department or the stationary source that are necessary to comply with this chapter. (Ord. 2024-14, § IV; Ord. 98-48 § 2) 450-8.004 - Purpose and goals. (a) The purpose of this chapter is to impose regulations which improve industrial safety by: (1) Requiring the conduct of process hazard analyses for covered processes handling hazardous materials not covered by the federal or state accidental release prevention programs; 3 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-14 (2) Requiring the review of action items resulting from process hazard analyses and requiring completion of those action items selected by the stationary source for implementation within a reasonable time frame; (3) Requiring the review of accidental release prevention efforts of stationary sources and providing for the conduct of investigations and analyses for the determination of the root cause for certain incidents; (4) Providing review, inspection, auditing and safety requirements that are more stringent than those required in existing law and regulations; (5) Providing for public input into the safety plan and safety program and public review of any inspection and audit results; (6) Facilitating cooperation among industry, the county, local fire departments, Cal/OSHA, EPA, other agencies that have oversight of stationary sources or tank terminals, and the public in the prevention and reduction of incidents at these facilities; (7) Expanding the application of certain provisions of the federal and state accidental release prevention programs to processes not covered by the federal or state accidental release prevention programs; (8) Verifying that an approved security and vulnerability study is performed, and that the recommendations are addressed within a reasonable time frame; (9) Requiring the development and implementation of a written human factors program; and (10) Preventing and reducing the number, frequency, and severity of accidental releases in the county to the greatest extent feasible. (Ord. No. 2024-14, § IV; 2014-07, § III, 6-17-14; Ord. 2006-22 § 2, Ord. 98-48 § 2) 450-8.006 - Authority. The ordinance codified in this chapter is adopted by the county pursuant to its police power for the purposes of protecting public health and safety by prevention of accidental releases of hazardous materials and to assure protection of the environment. (Ord. 2024-14, § IV; Ord. 98-48 § 2) 450-8.008 - Administration. The department is charged with the responsibility of administering and enforcing this chapter. (Ord. 2024-14, § IV; Ord. 98-48 § 2) 450-8.010 - Applicability. (a) This chapter shall apply to stationary sources and tank terminals except as set forth in subsection (b). (b) To the extent that the following are stationary sources, they are exempt from the provisions of this chapter except Sections 450-8.016(c) and (e), and 450-8.018(f) and (g): (1) Storage tanks containing a nonregulated substance, except for storage tanks that contain a material that has a flashpoint above one hundred forty degrees Fahrenheit and below two 4 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-14 hundred degrees Fahrenheit in accordance with the definition of combustible liquid in 49 CFR Section 173.120(b); (2) Drum storage of: (A) a nonregulated substance; (B) less than ten thousand pounds of a hazard category B material located such that the drums could reasonably be expected to be involved in a single release; and (C) a hazard category A material, located such that the drums could reasonably be expected to be involved in a single release, at less than the quantity specified as the threshold planning quantity on the extremely hazardous substances list (Appendix A to 40 CFR Chapter I, Subchapter J, Part 355, as amended from time to time) or five hundred pounds, whichever is less; (3) Activities in process plant laboratories or laboratories that are under the supervision of a technically qualified individual as defined in Section 720.3(ee) of 40 CFR. This exemption does not apply to specialty chemical production; manufacture, processing or use of substances in pilot plant scale operations; and activities conducted outside the laboratory; (4) Utilities, except for fuel gas and natural gas systems to the battery limits of a process unit; and (5) Any waste tanks, containers or other devices subject to the federal and state hazardous waste laws, including the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), 40 CFR Chapter I, Subchapter I, commencing with Part 260, the California Hazardous Waste Control Law, California Health and Safety Code, commencing with Section 25100 and the California Code of Regulations, Title 22 Division 4.5 Environmental Health Standards for the Management of Hazardous Waste. (Ord. 2024-14 § IV; Ord. 2006-22 § 3; Ord. 98-48 § 2) 450-8.012 - Inspection. The department shall be allowed reasonable access to any part of a stationary source or tank terminal subject to requirements in this chapter, and to supporting documentation retained by the stationary source or tank terminal, for the purpose of determining compliance with this chapter. (Ord. 2024-14, § IV; Ord. 98-48 § 2) 450-8.014 - Definitions. For purposes of this chapter, the definitions set forth in this section shall apply. Words used in this chapter not defined in this section shall have the meanings ascribed to them in the Clean Air Act Regulations (40 CFR Section 68.3) and in California Health and Safety Code Article 2 (Section 25531 et seq.) of Chapter 6.95 of Division 20, unless the context indicates otherwise. (a) "Covered process" means any process at a stationary source. (b) "Department" means the county health services director and any director-authorized deputies. (c) "Feasible" means capable of being accomplished in a successful manner within a reasonable period of time, taking into account economic, environmental, legal, social, and technological factors. (d) "Hazard category A materials" are substances which meet the hazard category A material definition as set forth in Section 84-63.1016. (e) "Hazard category B materials" are substances which meet the hazard category B material definition as set forth in Section 84-63.1016. 5 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-14 (f) "Industry codes, standards, and guidelines" means the edition of the codes, standards, and guidelines in effect at the time of original design or construction for the design, construction, alteration, maintenance or repair of process units, industrial equipment, or other industrial facilities, structures or buildings published by, but not limited to, the American Petroleum Institute (API), the American Chemistry Council (ACC), the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) or the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), and meets recognized and generally accepted good engineering practices (RAGAGEP). (g) "Inherently safer systems" means "inherently safer design strategies" as discussed in the latest edition of the Center for Chemical Process Safety Publication "Inherently Safer Chemical Processes," and means feasible alternative equipment, processes, materials, lay-outs, and procedures meant to eliminate, minimize, or reduce the risk of a major chemical accident or release by modifying a process rather than adding external layers of protection. Examples include, but are not limited to, substitution of materials with lower vapor pressure, lower flammability, or lower toxicity; isolation of hazardous processes; and use of processes which operate at lower temperatures and/or pressures. (h) "Major chemical accident or release" means an incident that meets the definition of a level three or level two incident in the community warning system incident level classification system defined in the hazardous materials incident notification policy, as determined by the department; or results in the release of a regulated substance and meets one or more of the following criteria: (1) Results in one or more fatalities; (2) Results in at least twenty-four hours of hospital treatment of each of at least three persons; (3) Causes on- and/or off-site property damage (including clean-up and restoration activities) initially estimated at five hundred thousand dollars or more. On-site estimates shall be performed by the stationary source. Off-site estimates shall be performed by appropriate agencies and compiled by the department; (4) Results in a vapor cloud of flammables and/or combustibles that is more than five thousand pounds. (i) "Regulated substance" means (1) any chemical substance which satisfies the provisions of California Health and Safety Code Section 25532(i), as amended from time to time, or (2) a substance which satisfies the provisions of hazard categories A or B in Section 84-63.1016. Mixtures containing less than one percent of a regulated substance shall not be considered in the determination of the presence of a regulated material. (j) "Risk management program" means the documentation, development, implementation, and integration of management systems by the facility to comply with the regulations set forth in 40 CFR, Part 68 and the California Health and Safety Code, Article 2 of Chapter 6.95 of Division 20. (k) "RMP" means the risk management plan required to be submitted pursuant to the requirements of the 40 CFR Section 68.150-68.185 and the California Health and Safety Code Article 2 (Section 25531 et seq.) of Chapter 6.95 of Division 20. (l) "Root cause" means prime reasons, such as failures of some management systems, that allow faulty design, inadequate training, or improper changes, which lead to an unsafe act or condition, and result in an incident. If root causes were removed, the particular incident would not have occurred. 6 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-14 (m) "Safety plan" means the safety plan required to be submitted to the department pursuant to the requirements of Section 450-8.016 or Section 450-8.017. (n) "Safety program" means the documentation, development, implementation, and integration of management systems by a stationary source or tank terminal to comply with applicable safety requirements set forth in Section 450-8.016 or Section 450-8.017. (o) "Stationary source" or "source" means a facility which includes at least one process as defined in 40 CFR Section 68.10 that is subject to federal risk management program level three requirements and whose primary North American Industry Classification System code (NAICS) is three hundred twenty-four (petroleum and coal products manufacturing) or three hundred twenty-five (chemical manufacturing), or the owner or operator thereof. As used in Section 450- 8.018, stationary source will be interpreted to also mean a tank terminal. (p) "California accidental release prevention program" means the documentation, development, implementation, and integration of management systems by a facility to comply with the regulations set forth in California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 5, Chapter 2. (q) "Catastrophic release" means a major uncontrolled emission, fire, or explosion, involving one or more highly hazardous chemicals, that presents serious danger to employees in the workplace and/or the public. As used in this section, "highly hazardous chemical" has the meaning ascribed to it in 29 CFR Section 1910.119(b) as of May 21, 2003. (r) "Human factors" means a discipline concerned with designing machines, operations, and work environments so that they match human capabilities, limitations, and needs. "Human factors" can be further referred to as environmental, organizational, and job factors, and human and individual characteristics that influence behavior at work in a way that can affect health and safety. (s) "Human systems" means the systems, such as written and unwritten policies, procedures, and practices, in effect to minimize the existence/persistence of latent conditions at the stationary source. It also includes the broad area of safety culture of a stationary source to the extent that it influences the actions of individuals or groups of individuals. (t) "Layer of protection analysis" (LOPA) means a semi-quantitative analysis of the risk of process hazards and the adequacy of safeguards against those hazards. (u) "Process hazard analysis" (PHA) means a qualitative, semi-quantitative or quantitative analysis of a process, involving the identification of individual hazards of a process, determination of the mechanisms by which hazards could give rise to undesired events, and evaluation of the consequences of these events on health, property and the environment. (v) "Process safety performance indicators" are measurements of a stationary source's activities and other events that are used to evaluate the performance of process safety systems. (w) "Combustible liquid" means a liquid having a closed cup flash point at or above 100° F (38° C). (x) "Flammable liquid" means a liquid having a closed cup flash point below 100° F (38° C). (y) "Ignitable liquid" means a flammable liquid or combustible liquid. (z) "Field erected tank" means an aboveground container constructed and/or erected on the site where it will be utilized. (aa) "Tank terminal" means at least one field erected tank with a minimum shell capacity of 50,000 gallons that contains a minimum of 10,000 pounds of flammable liquid, or the owner or operator thereof, on one or more contiguous properties. 7 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-14 (bb) "Tank terminal activities" mean any activity at a tank terminal involving an ignitable liquid, including but not limited to using, storing, blending, producing, gathering, refining, transferring, distributing, consuming, handling or moving an ignitable liquid. (cc) "Tank terminal equipment" means equipment that is at a tank terminal and involved in tank terminal activities, and such equipment is under the control of the tank terminal owner or operator. This equipment includes, but is not limited to, tanks, pumps, piping, valves, and ancillary equipment. (Ord. No. 2024-14, § IV; Ord. 2014-07, § IV, 6-17-14; Ord. 2006-22 § 4, Ord. 98-48 § 2) 450-8.016 - Stationary source safety requirements. The stationary source shall submit a safety plan to the department within one-year of the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter or within three years of the date a facility becomes a stationary source, that complies with the provisions of this section and that includes the safety elements listed in subsection (a). In addition, the stationary source shall comply with the safety requirements set forth in subsections (a) through (e), (i) and (j) and shall include a description of the manner of compliance with these subsections in the safety plan. A new covered process at an existing stationary source shall comply with subsections (a) through (e), (i) and (j) prior to initial startup. (a) Safety Program Elements. All covered processes shall be subject to the safety program elements listed below. The safety plan shall include a description of the manner in which these safety program elements listed below shall be applied to the covered process. These safety program elements shall be implemented in conformance with the California accidental release prevention program and the safety plan shall follow Chapters 5, 7, 8 and 9 of the county health services department’s CalARP program guidance document. (1) Process Safety Information. (A) The stationary source shall complete a compilation of written process safety information before conducting any process hazard analysis as required by this chapter. The compilation of written process safety information is to enable the stationary source and the employees involved in operating the covered process to identify and understand the hazards posed by the covered process. This process safety information shall include information pertaining to the hazards of the regulated substances used or produced by the process, information pertaining to the technology of the process, information pertaining to the equipment in the process, and information pertaining to the hazards of the regulated substances in the process. (i) This information shall consist of at least the following: toxicity information; permissible exposure limits; physical data; reactivity data; corrosivity data; thermal and chemical stability data; and hazardous effects of inadvertent mixing of different materials that could foreseeably occur. (ii) Safety data sheets meeting the requirements of Section 5194, Title 8 of California Code of Regulations may be used to comply with this requirement to the extent they contain the information required by this subsection. (iii) Information pertaining to the technology of the process shall include at least the following: a block flow diagram or simplified process flow diagram; process chemistry; maximum intended inventory; safe upper and lower limits for such items as temperatures, 8 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-14 pressures, flows or compositions; and, an evaluation of the consequences of deviations. Where the original technical information no longer exists, such information may be developed in conjunction with the process hazard analysis in sufficient detail to support the analysis. (iv) Information pertaining to the equipment in the process shall include: materials of construction; piping and instrument diagrams (P&ID's); electrical classification; relief system design and design basis; ventilation system design; design codes and standards employed; material and energy balances for processes built after the compliance date of the ordinance codified in this chapter; and safety systems (e.g., interlocks, detection or suppression systems). (B) The stationary source shall document that equipment complies with recognized and generally accepted good engineering practices. (C) For existing equipment designed and constructed in accordance with codes, standards, or practices that are no longer in general use, the stationary source shall determine and document that the equipment is designed, maintained, inspected, tested, and operating in a safe manner. (2) Operating Procedures. (A) The stationary source shall develop and implement written operating procedures that provide clear instructions for safely conducting activities involved in each covered process consistent with the process safety information and shall address at least the following elements: (i) Steps for each operating phase: initial startup; normal operations; temporary operations; emergency shutdown, including the conditions under which emergency shutdown is required, and the assignment of shutdown responsibility to qualified operators to ensure that emergency shutdown is executed in a safe and timely manner; emergency operations; normal shutdown; and, startup following a turnaround, or after an emergency shutdown. (ii) Operating limits: consequences of deviation; and steps required to correct or avoid deviation. (B) Safety and Health Considerations. Properties of, and hazards presented by, the chemicals used in the process; precautions necessary to prevent exposure, including engineering controls, administrative controls, and personal protective equipment; control measures to be taken if physical contact or airborne exposure occurs; quality control for raw materials and control of hazardous chemical inventory levels; and, any special or unique hazards. (C) Safety systems and their functions. (D) Operating procedures shall be readily accessible to employees who work in or maintain a process. (E) The operating procedures shall be reviewed as often as necessary to assure that they reflect current operating practice, including changes that result from changes in process chemicals, technology, and equipment, and changes to stationary sources. The stationary source shall certify annually that these operating procedures are current and accurate. (F) The stationary source shall develop and implement safe work practices to provide for the control of hazards during operations such as lockout/tagout; confined space entry; opening process equipment or piping; and control over entrance into a stationary source by maintenance, contractor, laboratory, or other support personnel. These safe work practices shall apply to employees and contractor employees. (3) Employee Participation. (A) The stationary source shall develop a written plan of action regarding the implementation of the employee participation required by this chapter. 9 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-14 (B) The stationary source shall consult with employees and their representatives on the conduct and development of process hazards analyses and on the development of the other elements of the safety program in this chapter. (C) The stationary source shall provide to employees and their representatives access to process hazard analyses and to all other information required to be developed under this chapter. (4) Training. For each employee in such covered process: (A) Initial Training. Each employee presently involved in operating a covered process, and each employee before being involved in operating a newly assigned covered process, shall be trained in an overview of the process and in the operating procedures as specified in subsection (a)(2)(A). The training shall include emphasis on the specific safety and health hazards, emergency operations including shutdown, and safe work practices applicable to the employee's job tasks. In lieu of initial training for those employees already involved in operating a process, an owner or operator may certify in writing that the employee has the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to safely carry out the duties and responsibilities as specified in the operating procedures. (B) Refresher Training. Refresher training shall be provided at least every three years, and more often if necessary, to each employee involved in operating a covered process to assure that the employee understands and adheres to the current operating procedures of the covered process. The stationary source, in consultation with the employees involved in operating the process, shall determine the appropriate frequency of refresher training. (C) Training Documentation. The stationary source shall ascertain that each employee involved in operating a process has received and understood the training required by this section. The stationary source shall prepare a record which contains the identity of the employee, the date of training, and the means used to verify that the employee understood the training. (5) Mechanical Integrity, Including the Use of Industry codes, standards, and guidelines. (A) Application. Subsections (a)(5)(B) through (a)(5)(F) apply to the following process equipment: pressure vessels and storage tanks; piping subsystems (including piping components such as valves); relief and vent systems and devices; emergency shutdown systems; controls (including monitoring devices and sensors, alarms, and interlocks) and pumps. (B) Written Procedures. The stationary source shall establish and implement written procedures to maintain the on-going integrity of process equipment. (C) Training for Process Maintenance Activities. The stationary source shall train each employee involved in maintaining the on-going integrity of process equipment in an overview of that process and its hazards and in the procedures applicable to the employee's job tasks to assure that the employee can perform the job tasks in a safe manner. (D) Inspection and Testing. (1) Inspections and tests shall be performed on process equipment. Inspection and testing procedures shall follow recognized and generally accepted good engineering practices. The frequency of inspections and tests of process equipment shall be consistent with applicable manufacturers' recommendations and good engineering practices, and more frequently if determined to be necessary by prior operating experience. The stationary source shall document each inspection and test that has been performed on process equipment. The documentation shall identify the date of the inspection or test, the name of the person who performed the inspection or test, the serial number or other identifier of the equipment on which the inspection 10 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-14 or test was performed, a description of the inspection or test performed, and the results of the inspection or test. (E) Equipment Deficiencies. The stationary source shall correct deficiencies in equipment that are outside acceptable limits (defined by the process safety information in subsection (a)(1)) before further use or in a safe and timely manner when necessary means are taken to assure safe operation. (F) Quality Assurance. In the construction of new plants and equipment, the stationary source shall assure that equipment as it is fabricated is suitable for the process application for which they will be used. Appropriate checks and inspections shall be performed to assure that equipment is installed properly and consistent with design specifications and the manufacturer's instructions. The stationary source shall assure that maintenance materials, spare parts and equipment are suitable for the process application for which they will be used. (6) Management of Change. (A) The stationary source shall establish and implement written procedures to manage changes (except for "replacements in kind") to process chemicals, technology, equipment, and procedures; and changes to stationary sources that affect a covered process. (B) The procedures shall assure that the following considerations are addressed prior to any change: the technical basis for the proposed change; impact of change on safety and health; modifications to operating procedures; necessary time period for the change; and authorization requirements for the proposed change. The procedures shall also require identification and analysis of inherently safer systems as required by subsection (i). (C) Employees involved in operating a process and maintenance and contract employees whose job tasks will be affected by a change in the process shall be informed of, and trained in, the change prior to startup of the process or affected part of the process. (D) If a change covered by this section results in a change in the process safety information required by subsection (a)(1), such information shall be updated accordingly. (E) If a change covered by this section results in a change in the operating procedures or practices required by subsection (a)(2), such procedures or practices shall be updated accordingly. (7) Pre-Startup Reviews. (A) The stationary source shall perform a pre-startup safety review for new stationary sources and for modified stationary sources when the modification is significant enough to require a change in the process safety information. (B) The pre-startup safety review shall confirm that prior to the introduction of regulated substances to a covered process: construction and equipment is in accordance with design specifications; safety, operating, maintenance, and emergency procedures are in place and are adequate; for new covered processes, a process hazard analysis has been performed and recommendations have been resolved or implemented before startup; and modified covered processes meet the requirements contained in management of change, subsection (a)(6); and training of each employee involved in operating a process has been completed. (8) Compliance Audits. (A) The stationary source shall certify that they have evaluated compliance with the provisions of this section at least every three years to verify that the procedures and practices developed under this chapter are adequate and are being followed. 11 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-14 (B) The compliance audit shall be conducted by at least one person knowledgeable in the process. (C) A report of the findings of the audit shall be developed. (D) The stationary source shall promptly determine and document an appropriate response to each of the findings of the compliance audit, and document that deficiencies have been corrected. (E) The stationary source shall retain the two most recent compliance audit reports. (9) Incident Investigation. (A) The stationary source shall investigate each incident which resulted in, or could reasonably have resulted in a catastrophic release of a regulated substance. (B) An incident investigation shall be initiated as promptly as possible, but not later than forty-eight hours following the incident. (C) An incident investigation team shall be established and consist of at least one person knowledgeable in the covered process involved, including a contract employee if the incident involved work of the contractor, and other persons with appropriate knowledge and experience to thoroughly investigate and analyze the incident. (D) A report shall be prepared at the conclusion of the investigation which includes at a minimum: date of incident; date investigation began; a description of the incident; the factors that contributed to the incident; and recommendations resulting from the investigation. The written summary shall indicate whether the cause of the incident and/or recommendations resulting from the investigation are specific only to the process or equipment involved in the incident, or are applicable to other processes or equipment at the stationary source. The incident investigation report shall be made available to the department upon request. (E) The stationary source shall establish a system to promptly address and resolve the incident report findings and recommendations. As part of this system, inherently safer systems shall be identified and analyzed as required by subsection (i). Resolutions and corrective actions shall be documented. (F) The report shall be reviewed with all affected personnel whose job tasks are relevant to the incident findings including contract employees where applicable. (G) Incident investigation reports shall be retained for five years. (10) Hot Work. (A) The stationary source shall issue a hot work permit for hot work operations conducted on or near a covered process. (B) The permit shall document that the fire prevention and protection requirements in Section 5189 of Title 8 of California Code Regulations have been implemented prior to beginning the hot work operations; it shall indicate the date(s) authorized for hot work; and identify the object on which hot work is to be performed. The permit shall be kept on file until completion of the hot work operations. (11) Contractors. (A) Application. This section applies to contractors performing maintenance or repair, turnaround, major renovation, or specialty work on or adjacent to a covered process. It does not apply to contractors providing incidental services which do not influence process safety, such as janitorial work, food and drink services, laundry, delivery or other supply services. (B) Stationary Source Responsibilities. 12 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-14 (i) The stationary source, when selecting a contractor, shall obtain and evaluate information regarding the contract owner or operator's safety performance and programs. (ii) The stationary source shall inform contract owner or operator of the known potential fire, explosion, or toxic release hazards related to the contractor's work and the process. (iii) The stationary source shall explain to the contract owner or operator the applicable provisions of the emergency response program subsection (a)(12). (iv) The stationary source shall develop and implement safe work practices consistent with subsection (a)(2) to control the entrance, presence, and exit of the contract owner or operator and contract employees in covered process areas. (v) The stationary source shall periodically evaluate the performance of the contract owner or operator in fulfilling their obligations as specified in subsection (a)(11)(C). (C) Contract Owner or Operator Responsibilities. (i) The contract owner or operator shall assure that each contract employee is trained in the work practices necessary to safely perform his/her job. (ii) The contract owner or operator shall assure that each contract employee is instructed in the known potential fire, explosion, or toxic release hazards related to his/her job and the process, and the applicable provisions of the emergency action plan. (iii) The contract owner or operator shall document that each contract employee has received and understood the training required by this section. The contract owner or operator shall prepare a record which contains the identity of the contract employee, the date of training, and the means used to verify that the employee understood the training. (iv) The contract owner or operator shall assure that each contract employee follows the safety rules of the stationary source including the safe work practices required by subsection (a)(2). (v) The contract owner or operator shall advise the stationary source of any unique hazards presented by the contract owner or operator's work, or of any hazards found by the contract owner or operator's work. (12) Emergency Response Program. (A) The stationary source shall develop and implement an emergency response program for the purpose of protecting public health and the environment. Such program shall include the following elements: (i) An emergency response plan, which shall be maintained at the stationary source and contain at least the following elements: procedures for informing the public and local emergency response agencies about accidental releases, emergency planning, and emergency response; documentation of proper first aid and emergency medical treatment necessary to treat accidental human exposures; and procedures and measures for emergency response after an accidental release of a regulated substance; (ii) Procedures for the use of emergency response equipment and for its inspection, testing, and maintenance, including documentation of inspection, testing, and maintenance; (iii) Training for all employees in relevant procedures and the incident command system; and (iv) Procedures to review and update, as appropriate, the emergency response plan to reflect changes at the stationary source and ensure that employees are informed of changes. (B) A written plan that complies with other federal contingency plan regulations or is consistent with the approach in the national response team's integrated contingency plan 13 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-14 guidance ("One Plan") and that, among other matters, includes the elements provided in subsection (a)(12)(A), shall satisfy the requirements of this section if the stationary source also complies with subsection (a)(12)(C). (C) The emergency response plan developed under this section shall be coordinated with the community emergency response plan developed under 42 U.S.C. Section 11003. Upon request of the local emergency planning committee or emergency response officials, the stationary source shall promptly provide to the local emergency response officials information necessary for developing and implementing the community emergency response plan. (D) The stationary source whose employees will not respond to accidental releases of regulated substances need not comply with subsections (a)(12)(A) through (a)(12)(C) provided that they meet the following: (i) For stationary sources with any regulated toxic substance held in a process above the threshold quantity, the stationary source is included in the community emergency response plan developed under Section 11003 of Title 42 of the United States Code (U.S.C.); or (ii) For stationary sources with only regulated flammable substances held in a process above the threshold quantity the stationary source has coordinated response actions with the local fire department; and (iii) Appropriate mechanisms are in place to notify emergency responders when there is a need for a response. (13) Safety Program Management. (A) The owner or operator of a stationary source subject to this chapter shall develop a management system to oversee the implementation of the safety program elements. (B) The owner or operator shall assign a qualified person or position that has the overall responsibility for the development, implementation, and integration of the safety program elements. (C) When responsibility for implementing individual requirements of this chapter is assigned to persons other than the person identified under subsection (a)(13)(B), the names or positions of these people shall be documented and the lines of authority defined through an organization chart or similar document. (D) Process Safety Performance Indicators. (i) No later than September 30, 2014, the department shall develop a list of stationary source activities and other events to be measured by each stationary source in order to evaluate the performance of process safety systems. This list is the "event list." Each stationary source shall measure these activities and other events and document the measurements. These documented measurements are "common process safety performance indicators." No later than September 30 of each year after 2014, each stationary source will report to the department the common process safety performance indicators recorded by the stationary source in the prior calendar year. The department will include these common process safety performance indicators in the annual performance review and evaluation report required by Section 450-8.030. (ii) The department shall review the event list at least once every three years to determine if it should be revised. If the department determines that a new activity or other event will be added to the event list, stationary sources shall report to the department the new common process safety performance indicator(s) by September 30 of the next year following the revision of the event list. 14 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-14 (iii) No later than September 30, 2014, each stationary source shall develop a list of site- specific activities and other events that it will measure in order to evaluate the performance of its process safety systems. Each stationary source shall document these site-specific process safety performance indicators and make this documentation available to the department during an audit or inspection and upon request. (b) Human Factors Program. (1) Stationary sources shall develop a written human factors program that follows the human factors guidance document developed or adopted by the department. The program shall be developed within one-year following the issuance of the county guidance documents, the effective date of the ordinance codified in this section, or as otherwise allowed by this chapter, whichever is later. The human factors program shall address: (A) The inclusion of human factors in the process hazards analysis process; (B) The consideration of human systems as causal factors in the incident investigation process for major chemical accidents or releases or for an incident that could reasonably have resulted in a major chemical accident or release; (C) The training of employees in the human factors program; (D) Operating procedures; (E) Maintenance safe work practice procedures and maintenance procedures for specialized equipment, piping, and instruments, no later than June 30, 2011; and (F) The requirement to conduct a management of change prior to staffing changes for changes in permanent staffing levels/reorganization in operations, maintenance, health and safety, or emergency response. This requirement shall also apply to stationary sources using contractors in permanent positions in operations and maintenance. Prior to conducting the management of change, the stationary source shall ensure that the job function descriptions are current and accurate for the positions under consideration. Staffing changes that last longer than ninety days are considered permanent. Temporary changes associated with strike preparations shall also be subject to this requirement. Employees and their representatives shall be consulted in the management of change. (2) Employees and their representatives shall participate in the development of the written human factors program. (3) The program shall include, but not be limited to, issues such as staffing, shiftwork and overtime. (4) A description of the human factors program subsections (b)(1) through (b)(3) shall be included in the safety plan prepared by the stationary source. (c) Root Cause Analysis and Incident Investigation. (1) Stationary sources shall conduct a root cause analysis for each major chemical accident or release which occurs after the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter. Stationary sources shall periodically update the department on facts related to the release or incident, and the status of a root cause analysis conducted pursuant to this section, at meetings scheduled by the department in cooperation with the stationary source. To the maximum extent feasible, the department and the stationary source shall coordinate these meetings with other agencies with jurisdiction over the stationary source. Within thirty days of completing a root cause analysis performed pursuant to this section, the stationary source shall submit to the department a final report containing that analysis, including recommendations to be implemented to mitigate against the release or incident reoccurring, if any, and a schedule for completion of 15 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-14 resulting recommendations. The stationary source shall also comply with subsection (i)(1)(E) if applicable. The department may require the stationary source to submit written, periodic update reports at a frequency not to exceed every thirty days until the final report is submitted. The methodology of the root cause analysis shall be one of the methodologies recognized by the Center for Chemical Process Safety or shall be reviewed by the department to determine substantial equivalency. (2) The department may elect to do its own independent root cause analysis or incident investigation for a major chemical accident or release. If the department elects to conduct a root cause analysis or incident investigation the stationary source shall cooperate with the department by providing the following access and information in a manner consistent with the safety of department and stationary source personnel and without placing undue burdens on the operation of the stationary source: (i) Allow the department to investigate the accident site and directly related facilities such as control rooms, physical evidence and where practicable the external and internal inspection of equipment; (ii) Provide the department with pertinent documentation; and (iii) Allow the department to conduct independent interviews of stationary source employees, subject to all rights of the stationary source and employees to be represented by legal counsel and/or management and union representatives during such interviews. If in the course of the department's root cause analysis or incident investigation access is required to areas of the stationary source which in the judgment of the stationary source requires personnel entering the area to use protective equipment and/or have specialized training the department shall provide its personnel with such equipment and training. To the maximum extent feasible, the department shall coordinate any root cause analysis or incident investigation it conducts with investigations conducted by other agencies with jurisdiction over the stationary source to minimize the adverse impacts on the stationary source and/or its employees. (3) No part of the conclusions, findings or recommendations of the root cause analysis conducted by the department or stationary source, or incident investigation conducted by the department, relating to any major chemical accident or release or the investigation thereof shall be admitted as evidence or used in any action or suit for damages arising out of any matter mentioned in such report. (4) If the department issues a root cause analysis report, the stationary source shall comply with subsection (i)(1)(E) if applicable. (d) Process Hazard Analysis/Action Items. (1) Process hazard analyses will be conducted for each of the covered processes according to one of the following methods: What-if, checklist, what-if/checklist, hazard and operability study (HAZOP), failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA), fault tree analysis or an appropriate equivalent methodology approved by the department prior to conducting the process hazard analysis. The PHA shall be appropriate to the complexity of the covered process and shall identify, evaluate, and control the hazards involved in the covered process. The PHA shall address: the hazards of the process; the identification of any previous incident which had a likely potential for catastrophic consequences; engineering and administrative control applicable to the hazards and their interrelationships such as appropriate application of detection methodologies to provide early warning of releases (acceptable detection methods might include process monitoring and control instrumentation with alarms, and detection hardware such as hydrocarbon 16 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-14 sensors); consequences of failure of engineering and administrative controls; covered process and stationary source siting; human factors; and a qualitative evaluation of a range of the possible safety and health effects of failure of controls. Process hazard analyses should also include consideration of external events except for seismic analyses, which are only required when criteria listed in subsection (d)(2) are satisfied. All process hazard analyses shall be performed by a team with expertise in engineering and process operations, and the team shall include at least one employee who has experience and knowledge specific to the process being evaluated. Also, one member of the team must be knowledgeable in the specific PHA methodology being used. (2) The process hazard analyses shall be conducted within one-year of the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter and no later than the submittal date of the safety plan. Previously completed process hazard analyses that comply with the California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Section 5189, and/or the California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Section 5100.2 are acceptable for the purposes of this chapter. Process hazard analyses shall be updated and revalidated at least once every five years after completion of the initial process hazard analysis. Updated and revalidated process hazard analyses completed to comply with the California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Section 5189, and/or the California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Section 5100 are acceptable for meeting the update and revalidation requirement. Seismic events shall be considered for processes containing a substance defined in the California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Chapter 2, Section 5130.6, if the distance to the nearest public receptor for a worst case release scenario specified by the California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Chapter 2, Section 5080.3 is within the distance to a toxic or flammable endpoint as defined in California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Chapter 2, Section 5080.2(a). (3) For all covered processes, the stationary source shall document the decision made to implement or not implement all PHA recommended action items and the results of recommendations for additional study. The stationary source shall complete recommended actions from the initial PHA and from PHA revalidations, identified by the process hazard analysis and selected for implementation by the stationary source as follows: all actions not requiring a process shutdown shall be completed within one-year after the completion of the PHA; all actions requiring a process shutdown shall be completed during the first regularly scheduled turnaround of the applicable process subsequent to one-year after the completion of the PHA unless the stationary source demonstrates to the satisfaction of the department that such a schedule is infeasible. For recommended actions not selected for implementation, the stationary source shall include the justification for not implementing the recommended action. For all covered processes, the stationary source shall retain documentation of closure, and any associated justifications, of actions identified by the PHA. The stationary source shall communicate the actions to operating, maintenance, and other employees whose work assignments are in the process and who may be affected by the recommendations or actions. (e) Accident History. (1) The stationary source shall include an accident history in the safety plan of all major chemical accidents or releases from June 1, 1992, through the date of safety plan submittal to the department. For each major chemical accident or release the stationary source shall report the following information, to the extent known: Date, time and approximate duration of the release; Chemicals released; 17 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-14 Estimated quantity released in pounds; Type of release event and its source; Weather conditions at the time of the release; On-site impacts; Known off-site impacts; Initiating event and contributing factors; Root cause(s); Whether off-site responders were notified; and Operational or process changes that resulted from the investigation of the release. (2) The stationary source shall annually submit a report of the accident history to the department. The first report shall be due two years after the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter, and subsequent reports shall be due by September 30 of each year. (f) Certification. The owner or operator shall submit in the safety plan a single certification that, to the best of the signer's knowledge, information, and belief formed after reasonable inquiry, the information submitted is true, accurate, and complete. (g) Security and Vulnerability Assessment. Each stationary source shall perform and document a security and vulnerability assessment as defined in the Contra Costa County CalARP program guidance document, by June 30, 2007, and at least once every five years after the initial assessment, or as prescribed by federal regulation. The stationary source shall document its process for assuring that recommendations are addressed. (h) Safety Culture Assessment. The stationary source shall conduct a safety culture assessment. The assessment shall be based upon a method listed in the Contra Costa County ISO Safety Program guidance document or shall be reviewed by the department to determine substantial equivalency. The initial assessment shall be performed by one-year following the revisions to the industrial safety ordinance guidance document that addresses the safety culture assessment, and at least once every five years thereafter. The safety culture assessment will be reviewed during the audit and inspection of the stationary source. The department may perform its own safety culture assessment after a major chemical accident or release or the occurrence of any incident that could reasonably have led to a major chemical accident or release, or based on department audit results of the stationary source. (i) Inherently Safer Systems Analysis. (1) A stationary source shall conduct an inherently safer systems analysis (ISSA) for each covered process as follows: (A) The stationary source shall conduct an ISSA on existing covered processes every five years. (B) The stationary source shall conduct an ISSA in the development and analysis of recommended action items identified in a PHA. (C) Effective September 30, 2014, whenever a major change is proposed at a facility that could reasonably result in a major chemical accident or release, the stationary source shall conduct an ISSA as part of a management of change review required by subsection (a)(6)(B). (D) If an incident occurs on or after September 30, 2014, an investigation of the incident is conducted pursuant to subsection (a)(9)(A) and the incident investigation report recommends a major change that could reasonably result in a major chemical accident or release, the stationary source shall commence and complete an ISSA of the recommended major change as soon as administratively practicable after completion of the incident investigation report. 18 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-14 (E) If an incident occurs on or after September 30, 2014, a root cause analysis of the incident is conducted as required by subsections (c)(1) or (c)(2), and the root cause analysis report or an associated incident investigation report recommends a major change that could reasonably result in a major chemical accident or release, the stationary source shall commence and complete an ISSA of the recommended major change as soon as administratively practicable after completion of the root cause analysis report. (F) The stationary source shall conduct an ISSA during the design of new processes, process units and facilities. Immediately upon completion of the ISSA report referred to in subsection (i)(2), the stationary source shall advise the department of the availability of the ISSA report. (2) The stationary source shall prepare a written report documenting each ISSA within thirty days of completion of the ISSA and make the report available to the department during an audit or inspection and upon request. The ISSA report must contain, at a minimum, the following information: (A) Identification and a description of the inherently safer system(s) analyzed in the ISSA; (B) A description of the methodology used to analyze the inherently safer systems(s); (C) The conclusions of the analysis; (D) The rationale for the conclusions; and (E) An action plan, including a timeline to implement the inherently safer system(s) recommended in the ISSA. (3) The stationary source shall select and implement each inherently safer system identified in an ISSA report to the greatest extent feasible and as soon as administratively practicable. If a stationary source concludes that implementation of an inherently safer system is not feasible, the stationary source shall document the basis for this conclusion in meaningful detail. The documentation shall include sufficient evidence to demonstrate to the department's satisfaction that implementing the inherently safer system is not feasible and the reasons for this conclusion. A claim that implementation of an inherently safer system is not feasible shall not be based solely on evidence of reduced profits or increased costs. (j) Safeguard Protection Analysis. (1) Effective September 30, 2014, a stationary source shall conduct a Layer of Protection Analysis or an alternative type of analysis approved by the department that uses a quantitative, qualitative or equivalent semi-quantitative method to determine the effectiveness of existing safeguards and safeguards recommended in a PHA to reduce the probability and/or severity of a catastrophic release. The safeguard protection analysis may be a standalone analysis or incorporated within a PHA. (2) The stationary source shall complete the safeguard protection analysis no later than June 30, 2019. A safeguard protection analysis that was completed by a stationary source within five years prior to June 30, 2019, in accordance with the standards set forth in subsection (j)(1), will be deemed to comply with this requirement. The stationary source shall update and revalidate the safeguard protection analysis at least once every five years. (3) All safeguard protection analyses shall be performed by a team with expertise in engineering and process operations. The team shall include at least one employee who has experience and knowledge specific to the safeguards and one member who is knowledgeable about the specific safeguard protection analysis method used. 19 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-14 (4) The stationary source shall prepare a written report that documents the safeguard protection analysis in accordance with the standard of practice applicable to the type of analysis conducted. The stationary source will complete the report within thirty days after the completion of the safeguard protection analysis and make the report available to the department during an audit or inspection and upon request. (Ord. No. 2024-14, § IV; 2014-07, § V, 6-17-14; Ords. 2006-22 § 5, 2000-20 § 1, 98-48 § 2) 450-8.017 – Tank terminal safety requirements. The tank terminal shall submit to the department a safety plan that includes the safety elements listed in subsection (a), within one and a half years after the effective date of the ordinance adding Section 450-8.017 to this chapter, within one and a half years after the department first issues a safety program guidance document for tank terminals, or within one and a half years after a tank terminal becomes subject to this section, whichever is later. In addition, the tank terminal shall comply with the safety requirements set forth in subsections (a) through (c) and shall include a description of the manner of compliance with the safety program elements in subsection (a) in the safety plan. Any new tank terminal equipment at an existing tank terminal shall comply with subsections (a) through (c) prior to introduction of an ignitable liquid into that equipment. (a) Safety Program Elements. All tank terminal activities and tank terminal equipment shall be subject to the safety program elements listed below. The safety plan shall include a description of the manner in which these safety program elements listed shall be applied to the tank terminal. These safety program elements shall be implemented in conformance with the department’s safety program guidance document for tank terminals. (1) Safety Information. (A) The tank terminal shall complete a compilation of written safety information before conducting any hazard review as required by this chapter. The compilation of written safety information enables the tank terminal and the employees involved in tank terminal activities to identify and understand the hazards posed by these activities. This safety information shall include information pertaining to the hazards of the tank terminal activities and information pertaining to the hazards of the ignitable liquids contained in tank terminal equipment. (i) The safety information required under subsection (a)(1)(A) shall consist of at least the following: Toxicity information; permissible exposure limits; physical data; reactivity data; corrosivity data; thermal and chemical stability data; and hazardous effects of inadvertent mixing of different materials that could foreseeably occur. Safety data sheets meeting the requirements of Section 5194, Title 8 of California Code of Regulations may be used to comply with this requirement to the extent they contain the information required by this subsection. (ii) Information pertaining to the tank terminal activities shall include at least the following: A block flow diagram or simplified process flow diagram; maximum intended inventory; safe upper and lower limits for such items as temperatures, pressures, flows, levels or compositions; and an evaluation of the consequences of deviations. Where the original technical information no longer exists, such information may be developed in conjunction with the hazard review in sufficient detail to support the analysis. (iii) Information pertaining to the tank terminal equipment shall include materials of construction; P&ID’s; electrical classification; relief system design and design basis; design 20 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-14 codes and standards employed; and safety systems (e.g., interlocks, detection or suppression systems). (B) The tank terminal shall document that tank terminal equipment complies with recognized and generally accepted good engineering practices. (C) For existing tank terminal equipment designed and constructed in accordance with codes, standards, or practices that is no longer in general use, the tank terminal shall determine and document that the equipment is designed, maintained, inspected, tested, and operating in a safe manner. (2) Operating Procedures. (A) The tank terminal shall develop and implement written operating procedures that provide clear instructions for safely conducting tank terminal activities consistent with the safety information and shall address at least the following elements: (i) Steps for each operating phase: Initial startup; normal operations; temporary operations; emergency shutdown, including the conditions under which emergency shutdown is required, and the assignment of shutdown responsibility to qualified operators to ensure that emergency shutdown is executed in a safe and timely manner; emergency operations; normal shutdown; and startup following a maintenance outage or after an emergency shutdown. (ii) Operating limits: Consequences of deviation; and steps required to correct or avoid deviation. (B) Safety and Health Considerations. Properties of, and hazards presented by, the ignitable liquids contained in tank terminal equipment; precautions necessary to prevent exposure, including engineering controls, administrative controls, and personal protective equipment; control measures to be taken if physical contact or airborne exposure occurs; quality control for raw materials and control of hazardous inventory levels; and, any special or unique hazard. (C) Operating procedures shall be readily accessible to employees who operate or maintain tank terminal equipment. (D) Operating procedures shall be reviewed and revised as often as necessary to assure that they reflect current operating practice, including changes that result from changes in ignitable liquids, tank terminal activities or tank terminal equipment, or changes to the tank terminal. The tank terminal shall certify annually that these operating procedures are current and accurate. (E) The tank terminal shall develop and implement safe work practices to provide for the control of hazards during operations such as hot work; lockout/tagout; confined space entry; opening tank terminal equipment; and control over access to a tank terminal by maintenance, contractor, laboratory, or other support personnel. These safe work practices shall apply to employees and contractor employees. (F) Training on Operating Procedures. The tank terminal shall provide initial and refresher training to each employee involved in implementing the written operating procedures for safely conducting tank terminal activities. Initial training shall be provided to each employee before being involved in newly assigned tank terminal activities. Refresher training shall be provided at least every three years to each employee involved in tank terminal activities to assure that the employee understands and adheres to the current operating procedures. All training shall be documented. (3) Mechanical Integrity, Including the Use of Industry codes, standards, and guidelines. 21 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-14 (A) Application. Subsections (a)(3)(B) through (a)(3)(F) apply to the following tank terminal equipment: Pressure vessels and storage tanks; piping subsystems (including piping components such as valves); relief and vent systems and devices; emergency shutdown systems; controls (including monitoring devices and sensors, alarms, and interlocks) and pumps. (B) Written Procedures. The tank terminal shall establish and implement written procedures to maintain the ongoing integrity of tank terminal equipment. (C) Training for Tank Terminal Equipment Maintenance Activities. The tank terminal shall train each employee involved in maintaining the ongoing integrity of tank terminal equipment in hazards of the tank terminal equipment and of the ignitable liquid contained in the equipment, and in the procedures applicable to the employee's job tasks to assure that the employee can perform the job tasks in a safe manner. (D) Inspection and Testing. Inspections and tests shall be performed on tank terminal equipment. Inspection and testing procedures shall follow recognized and generally accepted good engineering practices. The frequency of inspections and tests of tank terminal equipment shall be consistent with applicable manufacturers' recommendations and good engineering practices, and more frequently if determined to be necessary by prior operating experience. The tank terminal shall document each inspection and test that has been performed on tank terminal equipment. The documentation shall identify the date of the inspection or test, the name of the person who performed the inspection or test, the serial number or other identifier of the equipment on which the inspection or test was performed, a description of the inspection or test performed, and the results of the inspection or test. (E) Equipment Deficiencies. The tank terminal shall correct deficiencies in equipment that are outside acceptable limits (defined by the safety information in subsection (a)(1)) before further use or in a safe and timely manner when necessary means are taken to assure safe operation. (F) Quality Assurance. In the construction of new equipment, the tank terminal shall assure that equipment as it is fabricated is suitable for the tank terminal activities for which they will be used. Appropriate checks and inspections shall be performed to assure that equipment is installed properly and consistent with design specifications and the manufacturer's instructions. The tank terminal shall assure that maintenance materials, spare parts and equipment are suitable for the tank terminal activity in which they will be used. (4) Management of Change, including compliance with applicable building and fire codes then in effect. (A) The tank terminal shall establish and implement written procedures to manage changes (except for "replacements in kind") to ignitable liquids, tank terminal activities, tank terminal equipment, and procedures. (B) The procedures shall assure that the following considerations are addressed prior to any change: The technical basis for the proposed change; impact of change on safety and health; modifications to operating procedures; necessary time period for the change; and authorization requirements for the proposed change. (C) Employees involved in operating a tank terminal and maintenance and contract employees whose job tasks will be affected by a change shall be informed of, and trained in, the change prior to operating the tank terminal equipment. (D) If a change covered by this section results in a change in the safety information 22 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-14 required by subsection (a)(1), such information shall be updated accordingly. (E) If a change covered by this section results in a change in the operating procedures or practices required by subsection (a)(2), or results in a change in written procedures to maintain the ongoing integrity of tank terminal equipment required by subsection (a)(3), such procedures or practices shall be updated accordingly. (F) Prior to construction of new tank terminal equipment or a structure, or alteration to the construction or use of existing tank terminal equipment or an existing structure, the tank terminal owner or operator shall consult with the local agency having authority to enforce the California Building Standards Code regarding any required building permits that must be obtained prior to construction or alteration. (G) If a change covered by this section will result in a change in the type of material stored in any field erected tank, the tank terminal owner or operator shall consult with the local agency having land use authority regarding any required land use permits or other approvals that must be obtained prior to the change. (5) Pre-Startup Reviews. (A) The tank terminal shall perform a pre-startup safety review for new tank terminal equipment and for modified tank terminal equipment when a modification is significant enough to require a change in the safety information. (B) The pre-startup safety review shall confirm, separate and in addition to any management of change review, that prior to the introduction of ignitable liquids to tank terminal equipment: Construction and equipment is in accordance with design specifications; safety, operating, maintenance, and emergency procedures are in place and are adequate; modified tank terminal equipment meets the requirements contained in management of change, subsection (a)(4); and training of each employee involved in operating tank terminal equipment has been completed. (6) Incident Investigation. (A) The tank terminal shall investigate each incident that resulted in or could reasonably have resulted in a major chemical accident or release (MCAR), uncontrolled ignition of an ignitable liquid, or a threatened release (as defined in Health and Safety Code section 25501(t)) of one or more ignitable liquids. (B) An incident investigation shall be initiated as promptly as possible, but not later than 48 hours following the incident. (C) An incident investigation team shall be established and consist of at least one person knowledgeable in the tank terminal activities involved, including a contract employee if the incident involved work of the contractor, and other persons with appropriate knowledge and experience to thoroughly investigate and analyze the incident. (D) A report shall be prepared at the conclusion of the investigation which includes at a minimum: Date of incident; date investigation began; a description of the incident; the factors that contributed to the incident; and recommendations resulting from the investigation. The written summary shall indicate whether the cause of the incident and/or recommendations resulting from the investigation are specific only to the tank terminal activities or tank terminal equipment involved in the incident or are applicable to other tank terminal activities or tank terminal equipment at the tank terminal. The incident investigation report shall be made available to the department upon request. (E) The tank terminal shall establish a system to promptly address and resolve the incident 23 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-14 report findings and recommendations. Resolutions and corrective actions shall be documented with completion date(s). (F) The report shall be reviewed with all affected personnel whose job tasks are relevant to the incident findings, including contract employees where applicable. (G) Incident investigation reports shall be retained for five years. (7) Emergency Response. (A) The tank terminal shall develop and implement an emergency response program for the purpose of protecting public health and the environment. Such program shall include the following elements: (i) An emergency response plan, which shall be maintained at the tank terminal and contain at least the following elements: Procedures for informing the public and local emergency response agencies about accidental releases, emergency planning, and emergency response; documentation of proper first-aid and emergency medical treatment necessary to treat accidental human exposures; and procedures and measures for emergency response after an accidental release of an ignitable liquid. (ii) Procedures for the use of emergency response equipment and for its inspection, testing, and maintenance, including documentation of inspection, testing, and maintenance. (iii) Training for all employees in relevant procedures and the incident command system; and (iv) Procedures to review and update, as appropriate, the emergency response plan to reflect changes at the tank terminal and ensure that employees are informed of changes. (B) A written plan that complies with other federal contingency plan regulations or is consistent with the approach in the national response team's integrated contingency plan guidance ("One Plan") and that, among other matters, includes the elements provided in subsection (a)(7)(A), shall satisfy the requirements of this section if the tank terminal also complies with subsection (a)(7)(C). (C) The emergency response plan developed under this section shall be coordinated with the community emergency response plan developed under 42 U.S.C. Section 11003. Upon request of the local emergency planning committee or emergency response officials, the tank terminal shall promptly provide to the local emergency response officials information necessary for developing and implementing the community emergency response plan. (D) The tank terminal whose employees will not respond to an accidental release of an ignitable liquid need not comply with subsections (a)(7)(A) through (a)(7)(C) provided that they meet the following: (i) The tank terminal has coordinated response actions with the local fire department at least once every-three years; and (ii) Appropriate mechanisms are in place to notify emergency responders when there is a need for a response. (8) Safety Program Management. (A) The tank terminal shall develop a management system to oversee the implementation of the safety program elements. (B) The tank terminal shall assign a qualified person or position that has the overall responsibility for the development, implementation, and integration of the safety program elements. (C) When responsibility for implementing individual safety program elements is assigned 24 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-14 to persons other than the person identified under subsection (a)(8)(B), the names or positions of these people shall be documented and the lines of authority defined through an organization chart or similar document. (D) Safety Performance Indicators. (i) No later than September 30, 2024, the department shall develop a list of tank terminal activities and other events to be measured by each tank terminal in order to evaluate the performance of safety systems. This list is the "event list." Each tank terminal shall measure these activities and other events and document the measurements. These documented measurements are "common safety performance indicators." No later than September 30 of each year after the effective date of the ordinance adding Section 450-8.017 to this chapter, each tank terminal will report to the department the common safety performance indicators recorded by the tank terminal in the prior calendar year. The department will include these common safety performance indicators in the annual performance review and evaluation report required by Section 450-8.030. (ii) The department shall review the event list at least once every three years to determine if the event list should be revised. If the department determines that a new activity or other event will need to be added to the event list, each tank terminal shall report to the department the new common safety performance indicator(s) by September 30 of the next year following the revision of the event list. (iii) No later than September 30, 2024, each tank terminal shall develop a list of site- specific activities and other events that it will measure in order to evaluate the performance of its safety systems. Each shall document these site-specific safety performance indicators and make this documentation available to the department during an audit or inspection and upon request. (b) Hazard Review/Action Items. (1) A hazard review (HR) will be conducted on each tank terminal activity according to one of the following methods: What-if, checklist, what-if/checklist, HAZOP, failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA), fault tree analysis, or an appropriate equivalent methodology approved by the department prior to conducting the hazard review. The HA shall be appropriate to the complexity of the tank terminal activity and shall identify, evaluate, and control the hazards involved in the tank terminal activity. The HR shall address: The hazards of the tank terminal activity; the identification of any previous incident which had a likely potential for catastrophic consequences; engineering and administrative control applicable to the hazards and their interrelationships such as appropriate application of detection methodologies to provide early warning of releases (acceptable detection methods might include monitoring and control instrumentation with alarms, and detection hardware such as hydrocarbon sensors); consequences of failure of engineering and administrative controls; tank terminal equipment and tank terminal siting; human factors; and a qualitative evaluation of a range of the possible safety and health effects of failure of controls. Hazard reviews should also include consideration of external events. All hazard reviews shall be performed by a team with expertise in engineering and tank terminal activities, and the team shall include at least one operating employee who has experience and knowledge specific to the activity being evaluated. Also, one member of the team must be knowledgeable in the specific HR methodology being used. (2) The hazard review shall be conducted within one year of the effective date of the 25 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-14 ordinance adding Section 450-8.017 to this chapter and no later than the submittal date of the safety plan. Hazard reviews shall be updated and revalidated at least once every five years after completion of the initial hazard review. As part of the HR, a tank terminal shall complete a seismic assessment in accordance with good engineering practices as set forth in American Petroleum Institute Standard 650, 13th edition, Appendix A, and a security and vulnerability assessment (SVA) within one year after the effective date of the ordinance adding Section 450- 8.017 to this chapter or within one year after the department first issues a safety program guidance document for tank terminals, whichever is later, and at least once every five years after the initial assessment. A tank terminal that demonstrates its compliance with Department of Homeland Security or U.S. Coast Guard SVA requirements to the department is exempt from the requirement to complete an SVA under this subsection. The tank terminal shall document its process for assuring that recommended action items in the HR are addressed. (3) For all tank terminal activities, the tank terminal shall document the decision made to implement or not implement all HR recommended action items and the results of recommendations for additional study. The tank terminal shall complete recommended actions from the initial HR and from HR revalidations, identified by the hazard review and selected for implementation by the tank terminal within one year after the completion of the HR unless the tank terminal demonstrates to the satisfaction of the department that such a schedule is infeasible and obtains a written extension from the department, in which case the tank terminal shall complete the recommended actions in accordance with the extension. For recommended actions not selected for implementation, the tank terminal shall include the justification for not implementing the recommended action. For all tank terminal activities, the tank terminal shall retain documentation of closure, and any associated justifications, of actions identified by the HR. The tank terminal shall communicate the actions to operating, maintenance, and other employees whose work assignments relate to tank terminal activities and who may be affected by the recommendations or actions. (c) Root Cause Analysis and Incident Investigation. (1) Tank terminals shall conduct a root cause analysis for each major chemical accident or release which occurs after the effective date of the ordinance adding Section 450-8.017 to this chapter. Tank terminals shall periodically update the department on facts related to the release or incident, and the status of a root cause analysis conducted pursuant to this section, at meetings scheduled by the department in cooperation with the tank terminal. To the maximum extent feasible, the department and the tank terminal shall coordinate these meetings with other agencies with jurisdiction over the tank terminal. Within thirty days of completing a root cause analysis performed pursuant to this section, the tank terminal shall submit to the department a final report containing that analysis, including recommendations to be implemented to mitigate against the release or incident reoccurring, if any, and a schedule for completion of resulting recommendations. The department may require the tank terminal to submit written, periodic update reports at a frequency not to exceed every thirty days until the final report is submitted. The methodology of the root cause analysis shall be one of the methodologies recognized by the Center for Chemical Process Safety or shall be reviewed by the department to determine substantial equivalency. (2) The department may elect to do its own independent root cause analysis or incident investigation for a major chemical accident or release. If the department elects to conduct a root cause analysis or incident investigation, the tank terminal shall cooperate with the department by 26 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-14 providing the following access and information in a manner consistent with the safety of department and tank terminal personnel and without placing undue burdens on the operation of the tank terminal: (A) Allow the department to investigate the accident site and directly related facilities such as control rooms, physical evidence and where practicable the external and internal inspection of equipment. (B) Provide the department with pertinent documentation; and (C) Allow the department to conduct independent interviews of tank terminal employees, subject to all rights of the tank terminal and employees to be represented by legal counsel and/or management and union representatives during such interviews. If, in the course of the department’s root cause analysis or incident investigation, access is required to areas of the tank terminal which in the judgment of the tank terminal requires personnel entering the area to use protective equipment and/or have specialized training the department shall provide its personnel with such equipment and training. To the maximum extent feasible, the department shall coordinate any root cause analysis or incident investigation it conducts with investigations conducted by other agencies with jurisdiction over the tank terminal to minimize the adverse impacts on the tank terminal and its employees. (3) No part of the conclusions, findings or recommendations of the root cause analysis conducted by the department or tank terminal, or incident investigation conducted by the department, relating to any major chemical accident or release or the investigation thereof, shall be admitted as evidence or used in any action or suit for damages arising out of any matter mentioned in such report. (d) Accident History. (1) The tank terminal shall include an accident history in the safety plan of all major chemical accidents or releases from January 1, 2018, through the date of safety plan submittal to the department. For each major chemical accident or release the tank terminal shall report the following information, to the extent known: Date, time and approximate duration of the release; Chemicals released; Estimated quantity released in pounds; Type of release event and its source; Weather conditions at the time of the release; On-site impacts; Known off-site impacts; Initiating event and contributing factors; Root cause(s); Whether off-site responders were notified; and Operational or tank terminal equipment changes that resulted from the investigation of the release. (2) The tank terminal shall annually submit a report of the accident history to the department. The first report shall be due two years after the effective date of the ordinance adding Section 450-8.017 to this chapter, and subsequent reports shall be due September 30 of each year. 27 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-14 (e) Certification. The tank terminal shall submit in the safety plan a single certification that, to the best of the signer's knowledge, information, and belief formed after reasonable inquiry, the information submitted is true, accurate, and complete. (Ord. 2024-14, § IV) 450-8.018 - Review, audit and inspection. (a) Upon submission of a safety plan under Section 450-8.016 or Section 450-8.017, the department shall review the safety plan to determine if all the required elements are included and complete. The department shall provide to the stationary source a written notice of deficiencies, if any. The stationary source shall have sixty calendar days from receipt of the notice of deficiencies to make any corrections. The stationary source may request, in writing, a one-time thirty-day calendar day extension to correct deficiencies. By the end of the sixty calendar days or any extension period, the stationary source shall resubmit the revised safety plan to the department. After the department determines that the safety plan is complete, the department shall schedule a public meeting on the stationary source's safety plan to explain its contents to the public and take public comments. Public comments on the safety plan shall be taken by the department for a period of forty-five days after the safety plan is made available to the public. The department shall schedule a public meeting on the stationary source's safety plan during the forty-five-day comment period. The public meetings shall be held in the affected community on evenings or weekends. The department shall respond in writing to all written comments received during the forty-five-day comment period and to all oral comments received and not addressed at the public meeting. The department shall make portions of the safety plan, which are not protected trade secret information, available to the public for the public meeting. (b) (1) The department shall, within one year of the submission of the stationary source's safety plan, conduct an initial audit and inspection of the stationary source's safety program to determine compliance with this chapter. Based upon the department's review of the safety plan and the audit and inspection of the stationary source, the department may require modifications or additions to the safety plan submitted by the stationary source, or safety program to bring the safety plan or safety program into compliance with the requirements of this chapter. Any determination that modifications or additions to the safety plan or safety program are required shall be in writing, collectively referred to as the "preliminary determination." The preliminary determination shall explain the basis for the modifications or additions required to bring the safety plan or safety program into compliance with the requirements of this chapter and provide a timetable for resolution of the recommendations. The preliminary determination shall be provided to the stationary source. (2) The stationary source shall respond in writing to the preliminary determination issued by the department. The response shall state that the stationary source will incorporate into the safety plan or safety program the revisions contained in the preliminary determination or shall state that the stationary source rejects the revisions; in whole or in part. For each rejected revision, the stationary source shall explain the basis for rejecting such revision. Such explanation may include substitute revisions. (3) The stationary source’s written response to the department's preliminary determination shall be received by the department within ninety days of the issuance of the preliminary 28 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-14 determination or such shorter time as the department specifies in the preliminary determination as being necessary to protect public health and safety. Prior to the written response being due and upon written request from the stationary source, the department may provide, in writing, additional time for the response to be received. (4) After receiving the written response from the stationary source, the department shall issue a public notice pursuant to the department's public participation policy and make portions of the safety plan, the preliminary determination and the stationary source's responses, which are not protected trade secret information, available for public review. Public comments on the safety plan shall be taken by the department for a period of forty-five days after the safety plan, the preliminary determination and the stationary source's responses are made available to the public. The department shall schedule a public meeting on the stationary source's safety plan during the forty-five-day comment period. The public meetings shall be held in the affected community on evenings or weekends. The department shall respond in writing to all written comments received during the forty-five-day comment period and to all oral comments received and not addressed at the public meeting. (c) Based upon the department's preliminary determination review of the stationary source's responses and review of public comments on the safety plan, the preliminary determination and the stationary source's responses, the department may require modifications or additions to the safety plan submitted by the stationary source or safety program to bring the safety plan or safety program into compliance with the requirements of this chapter. Any determination that modifications or additions to the safety plan or safety program are required, and any determination that no modifications or additions to the safety plan or safety program are required shall be in writing (collectively referred to as "final determination"), shall be provided to the stationary source and shall be made available to the public. A copy of the final determination report will be sent to Cal/OSHA, EPA and the local fire department that has oversight of the stationary source. The department may not include in a final determination any requirements to a safety plan or safety program that would cause a violation of, or conflict with, any state or federal law or regulation or a violation of any permit or order issued by any state or federal agency. (d) Within thirty days of the department's final determination, the stationary source and/or any person may appeal the final determination to the board of supervisors pursuant to Chapter 14-4 by a verified written notice of appeal filed with the clerk of the board of supervisors and payment of the applicable appeal fee. The appeal must be limited to issues raised during the public comment period. The notice shall state the grounds for any such appeal, including (i) the reasoning that the appeal is necessary because the stationary source is in compliance with this chapter, or (ii) the reasoning that the appeal is necessary to bring the stationary source into compliance with this chapter. In acting on the appeal, the board shall have the same authority over the final determination as the department. The board may require modifications or additions to the safety plan or safety program to bring the safety plan or safety program into compliance with the requirements of this chapter. The board may not include in its decision on the final determination any requirements to a safety plan or safety program that would cause a violation of, or conflict with, any state or federal law or regulation or a violation of any permit or order issued by any state or federal agency. The decision of the board of supervisors shall be final with respect to the final determination. 29 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-14 (e) The safety plan shall be valid for a period of three years from the date of receipt by the department and shall be reviewed and updated by the stationary source every three years pursuant to the requirements of this chapter. Any revisions to the safety plan as a result of the review and update shall be submitted to the department and shall be subject to the provisions of this section. (f) The department may, within thirty days of a major chemical accident or release, initiate a safety inspection to review and audit the stationary source's compliance with the provisions of Section 450-8.016 or Section 450-8.017, whichever is applicable. The department shall review and audit the stationary source's compliance with the above provisions at least once every three years. The department may audit the stationary source based upon any of the following criteria: accident history of the stationary source, accident history of other stationary sources in the same industry, quantity of regulated substances present at the stationary source, location of the stationary source and its proximity to the public and environmental receptors, the presence of specific regulated substances, the hazards identified in the safety plan, a plan for providing neutral and random oversight, or a complaint from the stationary source's employee(s) or their representative. The stationary source shall allow the department to conduct these inspections and audits. The department, at its option, may select an outside consultant to assist in conducting such inspection. (g) Within thirty days of a major chemical accident or release the department may commence an incident safety inspection with respect to the process involved in the incident pursuant to the provisions of Section 450-8.016(c) or Section 450-8.017(c). (h) (1) Based upon the department's audit, safety inspection or an incident inspection, the department may require modifications or additions to the safety plan submitted by the stationary source or safety program to bring the safety plan or safety program into compliance with the requirements of this chapter. Any determination by the department shall be in writing and shall be provided to the stationary source (referred to as the "notice of findings"). The stationary source shall have sixty calendar days from receipt of the notice of findings to make any corrections. The stationary source may request, in writing, a one-time thirty-day calendar day extension to make corrections. The department may not include in its notice of findings requirements to a safety plan or safety program that would cause a violation of, or conflict with, any state or federal law or regulation or a violation of any permit or order issued by any state or federal agency. The notice of findings made by the department will be available to the public. (2) Within thirty days of the department's notice of findings, the stationary source and/or any person may appeal the notice of findings to the board of supervisors pursuant to Chapter 14- 4 by a verified written notice of appeal filed with the clerk of the board of supervisors and payment of the applicable appeal fee. The appeal must state the grounds for any such appeal, including (i) the reasoning that the appeal is necessary because the stationary source is in compliance with this chapter, or (ii) the reasoning that the appeal is necessary to bring the stationary source into compliance with this chapter. In acting on the appeal, the board shall have the same authority over the notice of findings as the department. The board may require modifications or additions to the safety plan or safety program to bring the safety plan or safety program into compliance with the requirements of this chapter. The board may not include in its decision on the notice of findings any requirements to a safety plan or safety program that would cause a violation of, or conflict with, any state or federal law or regulation or a violation of any 30 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-14 permit or order issued by any state or federal agency. The decision of the board of supervisors shall be final with respect to the notice of findings. (i) Nothing in this section shall preclude, limit, or interfere in any way with the authority of the county to exercise its enforcement, investigatory, and information gathering authorities under any other provision of law nor shall anything in the chapter effect or diminish the rights of the stationary source to claim legal privileges such as attorney client privilege and/or work product with respect to information and/or documents required to be submitted to or reviewed by the department. (Ords. 2024-14, § IV; Ord. 2014-07, § VI, 6-17-14; Ord. 2006-22 § 6; Ord. 98-48 § 2) 450-8.020 - Trade secret. The disclosure of any trade secret information required by this chapter shall be governed by California Health and Safety Code Section 25538, as amended from time to time, or as otherwise protected or required by law. (Ord. 2024-14, § IV; Ord. 98-48 § 2) 450-8.022 - Hazardous materials ombudsperson. The department shall continue to employ an ombudsperson for hazardous materials programs. The ombudsperson will serve as a single point of contact for people who live or work in Contra Costa County regarding environmental health concerns, questions, and complaints about hazardous materials programs. The ombudsperson will be empowered to identify and solve problems and make recommendations to the department. The ombudsperson's role will be one of investigating concerns and complaints, facilitating their resolution and assisting people in gathering information about programs, procedures, or issues. The ombudsperson may retain appropriate technical experts in order to fulfill technical assistance requests from members of the public. The cost of experts may be funded through programs established by the U.S. EPA or other appropriate entities. (Ord. 2024-14, § IV; Ord. 2000-20 § 2, Ord. 98-48 § 2) 450-8.024 - Public information bank. The department shall collect and provide ready access, including the use of electronic accessibility as reasonably available, to public documents which are relevant to the goals of this chapter, including at a minimum, business plan inventories and emergency response plans, risk management plans, safety plans, and department incident reports. This section shall not apply to trade secret information or other information protected from disclosure under federal or state law. The public information bank shall be completed by December 31, 2000. (Ord. 2024-14, § IV, Ord. 98-48 § 2) 450-8.026 - Fees. The department may, upon a majority vote of the board of supervisors, adopt a schedule of fees to be collected from each stationary source and tank terminal subject to the requirements of this chapter. Any review, inspection, audit fee schedule shall be set in an amount sufficient to 31 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-14 pay only those costs reasonably necessary to carry out the requirements of this chapter, including costs of staff and/or consultant time or public hearings and administrative overhead. The fee schedule shall include the cost of the ombudsperson position. (Ord. 2024-14, § IV; Ord. 98-48 § 2) 450-8.028 - Penalties. Regardless of the availability of other civil or administrative remedies and procedures for enforcing this chapter, every act or condition prohibited or declared unlawful by this chapter, and every knowing or willful failure or omission to act as required herein, is a violation of this code and shall be punishable and/or subject to enforcement pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 14-6 of the County Ordinance Code, specifically including but not limited to Article 14-6.4 (public nuisance abatement); Chapter 14-8 (criminal enforcement), as misdemeanors or infractions; and Chapter 14-12 (administrative penalties). (Ord. 2024-14, § IV; Ord. 98-48 § 2) 450-8.030 - Annual performance review and evaluation. (a) The department shall annually: (1) Review its activities to implement this chapter, and (2) evaluate the effectiveness of this chapter in achieving its purpose and goals pursuant to Section 450-8.004. (b) An annual performance review and evaluation report shall be prepared by the department based upon the previous fiscal year's activities and shall be submitted to the board of supervisors on or before December 31 of each year. The report shall contain: (1) A brief description of how the department is meeting the requirements of this chapter as follows: (i) Effectiveness of the department's program to ensure stationary source compliance with this chapter; (ii) effectiveness of the procedures for records management; (iii) number and type of audits and inspections conducted by the department pursuant to this chapter; (iv) number of root cause analyses and/or incident investigations conducted by the department; (v) the department's process for public participation; (vi) effectiveness of the public information bank, including status of electronic accessibility; (vii) effectiveness of the hazardous materials ombudsperson; (viii) other required program elements necessary to implement and manage this chapter. (2) A listing of all stationary sources covered by this chapter and, commencing on December 31 after the effective date of the ordinance adding Section 450-8.017 to this chapter, all tank terminals covered by this chapter, including for each: (i) The status of the safety plan and program of each stationary source and tank terminal; (ii) a summary of all safety plan updates and a listing of where the safety plans are publicly available; (iii) the annual accident history report submitted under Section 450-8.016(e)(2) or Section 450-8.017(d)(2); (iv) a summary, including the status, of any root cause analyses conducted or being conducted under this chapter by the stationary source or tank terminal, including the status of implementation of recommendations; (v) a summary, including the status, of any audits, inspections, root cause analyses and/or incident investigations conducted or being conducted by the department pursuant to this chapter, including the status of implementation of recommendations; (vi) description of inherently safer systems implemented by stationary sources; (vii) legal enforcement actions initiated by the department, including administrative, civil, and criminal actions pursuant to this 32 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-14 chapter; and (viii) process safety performance indicators reported by the stationary source as required under Section 450-8.016(a)(13)(D)(i) or safety performance indicator reported by the tank terminal as required under Section 450-8.017(a)(8)(D)(i). (3) Total penalties assessed as a result of enforcement of this chapter. (4) Total fees, service charges, and other assessments collected specifically for the support of this chapter. (5) Total personnel and personnel years utilized by the jurisdiction to directly implement or administer this chapter. (6) Comments from interested parties regarding the effectiveness of the local program that raise public safety issues. (7) The impact of the chapter in improving industrial safety. (c) The department shall provide a copy of the annual performance audit submission required by Title 19 Chapter 2 Section 5150.5 of the California Code of Regulations to the board of supervisors on or before December 31 of each year. (Ord. 2024-14, § IV, Ord. 2014-07, § VII, 6-17-14; Ord. 2006-22 § 7; Ord. 98-48 § 2) 450-8.032 - Construction. Notwithstanding any other provision of this code and for the purposes of this chapter wherever it provides that the department shall act, such direction in all instances shall be deemed and is directory, discretionary and permissive and not mandatory. (Ord. 2024-14, § IV; Ord. 98-48 § 2) SECTION V. Section 14-8.008 (Infraction arrest and citation) of the Ordinance Code is amended to read: 14-8.008 - Infraction arrest and citation. (a) The following officers, or their designated subordinates, shall have and are hereby vested with the authority to arrest any person who violates the following provisions of this Code and other codes as indicated, punishable as infractions: (1) Director of health services: Division 413, Division 445, Chapters 414-4, 414-6, 416-14, 418-2, 418-6, 418-12, 418-16, 420-2, 420-6, 450-6, 450-8, and Labor Code Section 6404.5; (2) Director of building inspection: Title 7; (3) Director of community development: Title 8; (4) Director of public works: Divisions 1002, 1010, 1014, 1106 and 1110; (5) Sheriff: Division 54, Chapter 54-2, and Divisions 410 and 1110. (b) The above-listed officers, or their designated subordinates, may issue citations for infraction violations of the above-listed code provisions. 33 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-14 (c) The county administrator may by written order issue regulations to provide for administration, procedures and policy direction for this section. (Ord No. 2024-14, § V; Ord. No. 2021-19, § III, 6-8-21; Ord. No. 2016-24, § V, 12-20-16; Ord. No. 2012-05, § III, 2-28-12; Ords. 2006-66 § 8, 2004-30 § 2, 2003-01 § 5, 2002-48 § 2, 2001-03 § 1, 98-31 § 1, 98-22 § 2, 96-21 § 2, 95-36 § 1, 90-122 § 2, 86-80 § 2; Penal Code §§ 19.7, 836.5, and 853.6; Labor Code § 6404.5). SECTION VI. EFFECTIVE DATE. This ordinance becomes effective 30 days after passage, and within 15 days after passage shall be published in the East Bay Times, a newspaper published in this County. This ordinance shall be published in a manner satisfying the requirements of Government Code section 25124, with the names of the supervisors voting for and against it. PASSED on __________________, by the following vote: AYES: NOES: ABSENT: ABSTAIN: ATTEST: Monica Nino, Clerk of the Board of Supervisors and County Administrator By: ____________________________ Deputy Board Chair [seal] SMS H:\Client Matters\Health Services\Ordinance 2024_14 - 082024.docx NOTICE OF A PUBLIC HEARING BEFORE THE CONTRA COSTA COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS REGARDING AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE COUNTY’S INDUSTRIAL SAFETY ORDINANCE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at 9:00 a.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, in the Board of Supervisors’ Chambers, Administration Building, First Floor, 1025 Escobar Street, Martinez, California 94553, to consider adopting Ordinance No. 2024-14. If adopted, the ordinance will amend Chapter 450-8 of the County Ordinance Code by adding Section 450-8.017, which establishes new safety requirements for tank terminals. The ordinance also makes other administrative changes, and it amends Section 14-8.008 of the County Ordinance Code to provide that a violation of Chapter 450-8 is an infraction that may be enforced by the director of health services. Members of the public may attend the Board of Supervisors meeting and participate in this public hearing in-person at the above-listed location. The public hearing will also be accessible to the public for participation via Zoom teleconference (https://cccounty- us.zoom.us/j/87344719204 | Call in: 888-278-0254 access code 843298#). Members of the public may also submit written testimony on the matter before or during the public hearing to the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors via email at clerkoftheboard@cob.cccounty.us. 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2789 Name: Status:Type:Discussion Item Passed File created:In control:7/23/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:CONSIDER authorizing the County Administrator, or designee, to approve rates and the County’s contributions for insurance with the NonPERS Medical, Dental, Vision, Computer Vision Care Program and Life Insurance Plan carriers for the period of January 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025 (Anthony Phillip, Human Resources Department) Attachments:, Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass 5:0 To:Board of Supervisors From:Ann Elliott, Human Resources Director Report Title:Approve 2025 Rate Renewals for NonPERS Health and Welfare Plans ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: AUTHORIZE the County Administrator, or designee, to approve rates and the County’s contributions for insurance with the NonPERS Medical, Dental, Vision, Computer Vision Care Program and Life Insurance Plan carriers for the period of January 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: The premiums for existing DeltaCare HMO and Delta Dental PPO and the VOYA Life Insurance plans will not increase for the 2025 plan year. There is a decrease for the Computer Vision Care and Voluntary Vision plans by approximately 5.00%. The CCHP plan premiums will increase by 6.50%, Health Net SmartCare HMO Plan A and Plan B by 7.51%, Health Net PPO plan by 12.50%, Kaiser Plan A, Plan B, and HDHP will increase by 3.38%, and Teamsters Local 856 Trust Kaiser Plan by 10%. Premiums for active,retired and survivor enrollees are funded by a combination of charges to County Departments,Special Districts,and employee/retiree/survivor contributions.Projections of the fiscal impact for 2025 are based on 2024 census data with no adjustment for future migration between plans.The 2025 projected total premium cost for active employees is approximately $147.4 million;the projected total premium cost for 2024 is expected to reach $140.0 million by year’s end.The currently negotiated cost to the County is $141.1 million of that total ($134.1 million in 2024). BACKGROUND: Insurance coverage is an important benefit and a valuable recruitment and retention tool. To ensure that high CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2789,Version:1 quality insurance is available for eligible Contra Costa County employees and retirees, the County offers group Medical, Dental, Life insurance, Voluntary Vision insurance, Computer Vision Vare coverage, as well as Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Savings Accounts on an annual basis with a number of carriers/providers. The County's existing insurance and coverage plans are for the calendar year and expire December 31, 2024. To assist the County in negotiating the best possible health care terms for active and retired employees, the County contracts with a consultant, who has expertise in public sector employee benefit plan design and rate structure. All medical insurance plans continue to offer essential medical benefits and coverage compliant with the requirements of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Beginning January 1, 2025, the County subsidy, for most employees eligible for NonPERS medical plans, will be 80% of the second lowest priced non-deductible HMO plan for all tiers (Employee, Employee +1 and Employee +2 or more). Based on the 2025 proposed rates, CCHP Plan A will be used for subsidy calculations. Coverage Type CCHP Plan A Premium % _County Subsidy Employee Only $1,262.51 80%$1010.01 Employee +1 $2,524.98 80%$2019.99 Employee +2/More $3,787.51 80%$3030.01 To ensure uninterrupted coverage for enrolled members (eligible active employees, retired employees and survivors of retired employees) staff requests authorization from the Board of Supervisors to renew existing insurance coverage at the rates provided in Attachment 1. The chart reflects the different premium structures - either Two Tier or Three Tier - based on what has been negotiated with various bargaining groups. Rate sheets, by bargaining group for actives and retirees, for the 2025 plan year reflecting County subsidies and employee/retiree costs will be available in October, prior to the Open Enrollment period. These rate sheets will be posted on the Employee Benefits website and a sample draft is provided in Attachment 2. The County continues to provide competitive rates for benefits plans through dedicated persistence and collaboration with Human Resources, the County’s consultant and the Joint Labor Management Benefits Committee (JLMBC). The Delta HMO, Delta PPO, and the Voya Supplemental & Basic Life Insurance plans will not increase in 2025. There is a decrease to the VSP Computer Vision Care (CVC) and Voluntary Vision plans. With the renewals and County subsidy for 2025, approximately 79% of County employees enrolled in NonPERS medical plans will see the same or reduced rate in their monthly contributions and 100% of employees enrolled in the Dental and Vision plans will see the same or reduced rate in their monthly contributions. The County is proud of the collaboration and results achieved with our consultants and the Joint Labor Management Benefits Committee (JLMBC). CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: To prevent the disruption of services for group benefits that are offered to eligible active employees, retirees, survivors and dependents, it is necessary to accept rate renewals prior to open enrollment which is planned for October 14, 2024 - November 1, 2024, for the 2025 plan year. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ NonPERS Medical, Dental, Vision, CVC and Life Insurance Renewal Rates EXISTING PLANS and PERCENTAGE of RATE INCREASE or DECREASE NonPERS Medical Plans 3 Tier Rate Structure Coverage 2024 2025 % of Change Contra Costa Health Plan A Employee (EE) $ 1,185.45 $ 1,262.51 6.50% EE + 1 $ 2,370.85 $ 2,524.98 6.50% EE + 2 or more $ 3,556.32 $ 3,787.51 6.50% Contra Costa Health Plan B Employee (EE) $ 1,314.08 $ 1,399.51 6.50% EE + 1 $ 2,628.15 $ 2,799.00 6.50% EE + 2 or more $ 3,942.25 $ 4,198.53 6.50% Kaiser Permanente Plan A Employee (EE) $ 945.36 $ 977.28 3.38% EE + 1 $ 1,890.72 $ 1,954.56 3.38% EE + 2 or more $ 2,836.08 $ 2,931.84 3.38% Kaiser Permanente Plan B Employee (EE) $ 751.38 $ 776.74 3.38% EE + 1 $ 1,502.76 $ 1,553.48 3.38% EE + 2 or more $ 2,254.14 $ 2,330.22 3.38% Kaiser Permanente HDHP Employee (EE) $ 603.14 $ 623.50 3.38% EE + 1 $ 1,206.28 $ 1,247.00 3.38% EE + 2 or more $ 1,809.42 $ 1,870.50 3.38% Teamsters Local 856 Kaiser Trust Health Plan Employee (EE) $ 872.84 $ 960.12 10.00% EE + 1 $ 1,786.32 $ 1,964.96 10.00% EE + 2 or more $ 2,557.56 $ 2,813.32 10.00% Health Net SmartCare HMO A Employee (EE) $ 1,770.42 $ 1,903.38 7.51% EE + 1 $ 3,540.84 $ 3,806.76 7.51% EE + 2 or more $ 5,311.26 $ 5,710.14 7.51% Health Net SmartCare HMO B Employee (EE) $ 1,184.52 $ 1,273.48 7.51% EE + 1 $ 2,369.04 $ 2,546.95 7.51% EE + 2 or more $ 3,553.56 $ 3,820.43 7.51% Health Net CA & OOS PPO Plan A Employee (EE) $ 3,640.25 $ 4,095.28 12.50% EE + 1 $ 7,280.50 $ 8,190.56 12.50% EE + 2 or more $ 10,920.75 $ 12,285.84 12.50% 2 Tier Rate Structure *Coverage 2024 2025 % of Change Contra Costa Health Plan A Employee (EE)1,279.24$ 1,362.40$ 6.50% Family 3,047.81$ 3,245.94$ 6.50% Contra Costa Health Plan B Employee (EE)1,418.04$ 1,510.22$ 6.50% Family 3,369.48$ 3,588.52$ 6.50% Kaiser Permanente Plan A Employee (EE)1,033.06$ 1,067.95$ 3.38% Family 2,407.04$ 2,488.32$ 3.38% Kaiser Permanente Plan B Employee (EE)842.28$ 870.72$ 3.38% Family 1,962.50$ 2,028.76$ 3.38% Kaiser Permanente HDHP Employee (EE)680.14$ 703.10$ 3.38% Family 1,584.74$ 1,638.22$ 3.37% Health Net HMO SmartCare Plan A Employee (EE)1,895.68$ 2,038.05$ 7.51% Family 4,644.42$ 4,993.22$ 7.51% Health Net HMO SmartCare Plan B Employee (EE)1,268.33$ 1,363.58$ 7.51% Family 3,107.41$ 3,340.78$ 7.51% Contra Costa Health Plan A2 Employee (EE)976.71$ 1,040.20$ 6.50% Family 2,184.85$ 2,326.89$ 6.50% * The 2 Tier Rate Structure only applies to CNA Actives and Early Retirees 1 NonPERS Medical, Dental, Vision, CVC and Life Insurance Renewal Rates EXISTING PLANS and PERCENTAGE of RATE INCREASE or DECREASE NonPERS Medicare Coordination of Benefits (COB) Plans 3 Tier Rate Structure Coverage 2024 2025 % of Change Contra Costa COB Health Plan A Retiree $ 588.35 $ 626.60 6.50% 2 Medicare $ 1,176.70 $ 1,253.20 6.50% Contra Costa COB Health Plan B Retiree $ 606.00 $ 645.40 6.50% 2 Medicare $ 1,212.01 $ 1,290.79 6.50% Health Net HMO A COB Plan Retiree $ 934.49 $ 976.54 4.50% 2 Medicare $ 1,868.98 $ 1,953.08 4.50% Health Net HMO B COB Plan Retiree $ 847.82 $ 885.97 4.50% 2 Medicare $ 1,695.64 $ 1,771.94 4.50% Health Net CA &OOS COB PPO Plan A Retiree $ 1,316.83 $ 1,381.35 4.90% 2 Medicare $ 2,633.66 $ 2,762.70 4.90% 2 Tier Rate Structure*Coverage 2024 2025 % of Change Contra Costa COB Health Plan A Retiree $ 588.35 $ 626.60 6.50% 2 Medicare $ 1,176.70 $ 1,253.20 6.50% Contra Costa COB Health Plan B Retiree $ 606.00 $ 645.40 6.50% 2 Medicare $ 1,212.01 $ 1,290.79 6.50% Health Net HMO A COB Plan Retiree $ 934.49 $ 976.54 4.50% 2 Medicare $ 1,868.98 $ 1,953.08 4.50% Health Net HMO B COB Plan Retiree $ 847.82 $ 885.97 4.50% 2 Medicare $ 1,695.64 $ 1,771.94 4.50% Health Net CA &OOS COB PPO Plan A Retiree $ 1,316.83 $ 1,381.35 4.90% 2 Medicare $ 2,633.66 $ 2,762.70 4.90% * The 2 Tier Rate Structure only applies to CNA Actives and Early Retirees Medicare Senior Advantage Plans 3 Tier Rate Structure Coverage 2024 2025 % of Change Kaiser Senior Advantage Plan A Retiree $ 357.44 $ 414.28 15.90% 2 Medicare $ 964.86 $ 1,118.44 15.92% Kaiser Senior Advantage Plan B Retiree $ 270.99 $ 314.03 15.88% 2 Medicare $ 731.23 $ 847.52 15.90% Health Net Seniority Plus Plan A Retiree $ 759.85 $ 809.24 6.50% 2 Medicare $ 1,519.70 $ 1,618.48 6.50% Health Net Seniority Plus Plan B Retiree $ 637.90 $ 679.36 6.50% 2 Medicare $ 1,275.80 $ 1,358.72 6.50% 2 Tier Rate Structure Coverage 2024 2025 % of Change Kaiser Senior Advantage Plan A Retiree $ 357.51 $ 414.37 15.90% 2 Medicare $ 965.55 $ 1,119.18 15.91% Kaiser Senior Advantage Plan B Retiree $ 271.06 $ 314.12 15.89% 2 Medicare $ 731.92 $ 848.26 15.90% Health Net Seniority Plus Plan A Retiree $ 759.85 $ 809.24 6.50% 2 Medicare $ 1,519.70 $ 1,618.48 6.50% Health Net Seniority Plus Plan B Retiree $ 637.90 $ 679.36 6.50% 2 Medicare $ 1,275.80 $ 1,358.72 6.50% 2 NonPERS Medical, Dental, Vision, CVC and Life Insurance Renewal Rates EXISTING PLANS and PERCENTAGE of RATE INCREASE or DECREASE Dental PPO 2 Tier & 3 Tier Rate Structure Coverage 2024 2025 % of Change Delta Dental PPO ASO Fees N/A $4.93 $4.93 0.00% Delta Dental PPO Employee (EE)$46.52 $46.52 0.00% EE + 1 (Family)$105.08 $105.08 0.00% EE + 2 or more (Family)$105.08 $105.08 0.00% Dental DHMO 2 Tier & 3 Tier Rate Structure Coverage 2024 2025 % of Change Delta Care HMO Employee (EE)$24.17 $24.17 0.00% EE + 1 (Family)$52.23 $52.23 0.00% EE + 2 or more (Family)$52.23 $52.23 0.00% Vision 2024 2025 % of Change VSP Computer Vision Care Plan (CVC)Employee (EE)$1.78 $1.69 -5.06% VSP Voluntary Vision Plan (3-tier)Employee (EE)$9.00 $8.55 -5.00% EE + 1 $17.99 $17.10 -4.95% EE + 2 or more $28.98 $27.54 -4.97% Life Insurance 2024 2025 % of Change VOYA Basic Life AD&D Program $0.074/$1,000 $0.074/$1,000 0.00% VOYA Supplemental Life AD&D Program 2024 2025 % of Change Employee and Spouse Age:Rate per $1,000 Rate per $1,000 0-24 $0.07 $0.07 0.00% 25-29 $0.08 $0.08 0.00% 30-34 $0.10 $0.10 0.00% 35-39 $0.11 $0.11 0.00% 40-44 $0.14 $0.14 0.00% 45-49 $0.22 $0.22 0.00% 50-54 $0.34 $0.34 0.00% 55-59 $0.59 $0.59 0.00% 60-64 $0.99 $0.99 0.00% 65-69 $1.82 $1.82 0.00% > 70 $3.52 $3.52 0.00% Dependent Children (Supp. Life only): $5,000 $0.80 $0.80 0.00% $10,000 $1.60 $1.60 0.00% 3 DRAFT COPY 2025 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY MONTHLY MEDICAL AND DENTAL PLAN PREMIUMS 2025 TOTAL MONTHLY PREMIUM 2025 COUNTY MONTHLY SUBSIDY 2025 EMPLOYEE MONTHLY SHARE $1,262.51 $1,010.01 $252.50 $2,524.98 $2,019.98 $505.00 $3,787.51 $3,030.01 $757.50 $1,399.51 $1,010.01 $389.50 $2,799.00 $2,019.98 $779.02 $4,198.53 $3,030.01 $1,168.52 $977.28 $977.28 $0.00 $1,954.56 $1,954.56 $0.00 $2,931.84 $2,931.84 $0.00 $776.74 $776.74 $0.00 $1,553.48 $1,553.48 $0.00 $2,330.22 $2,330.22 $0.00 $623.50 $623.50 $0.00 $1,247.00 $1,247.00 $0.00 $1,870.50 $1,870.50 $0.00 $960.12 $960.12 $0.00 $1,964.96 $1,964.96 $0.00 $2,813.32 $2,813.32 $0.00 $1,903.38 $1,010.01 $893.37 $3,806.76 $2,019.98 $1,786.78 $5,710.14 $3,030.01 $2,680.13 $1,273.48 $1,010.01 $263.47 $2,546.95 $2,019.98 $526.97 $3,820.43 $3,030.01 $790.42 $4,095.28 $1,010.01 $3,085.27 $8,190.56 $2,019.98 $6,170.58 $12,285.84 $3,030.01 $9,255.83 Employee on Basic Plan PERMANENT FULL TIME EMPLOYEES AND PART TIME EMPLOYEES SCHEDULED TO WORK AT LEAST 20 HOURS PER WEEK PLAN/COVERAGE DESCRIPTION CONTRA COSTA HEALTH PLAN - BASIC PLAN A Employee on Basic Plan Employee & 1 Employee & 2 or more dependents on Basic Plan CONTRA COSTA HEALTH PLAN - BASIC PLAN B Employee on Basic Plan Employee & 1 Employee & 2 or more dependents on Basic Plan KAISER PERMANENTE - BASIC PLAN A Employee on Basic Plan Employee & 1 Employee & 2 or more dependents on Basic Plan KAISER PERMANENTE - BASIC PLAN B Employee on Basic Plan Employee & 1 Employee & 2 or more dependents on Basic Plan KAISER PERMANENTE - HIGH DEDUCTIBLE PLAN Employee on Basic Plan Employee & 1 Employee & 2 or more dependents on Basic Plan HEALTH NET SMARTCARE - BASIC PLAN A TEAMSTERS 856 TRUST FUND KP HEALTH PLAN Employee on Basic Plan Employee & 1 Employee & 2 or more dependents on Basic Plan Employee & 1 Employee & 2 or more dependents on Basic Plan HEALTH NET SMARTCARE - BASIC PLAN B Employee on Basic Plan Employee & 1 Employee & 2 or more dependents on Basic Plan HEALTH NET PPO PLAN - BASIC PLAN A Employee on PPO Basic Plan Employee & 1 Employee & 2 or more dependents on Basic Plan PAGE 1 OF 2 DRAFT COPY 2025 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY MONTHLY MEDICAL AND DENTAL PLAN PREMIUMS 2025 TOTAL MONTHLY PREMIUM 2025 COUNTY MONTHLY SUBSIDY 2025 EMPLOYEE MONTHLY SHARE PERMANENT FULL TIME EMPLOYEES AND PART TIME EMPLOYEES SCHEDULED TO WORK AT LEAST 20 HOURS PER WEEK PLAN/COVERAGE DESCRIPTION Employee $46.52 $41.17 $5.35 Employee + 1 $105.08 $93.00 $12.08 Employee + 2 or more $105.08 $93.00 $12.08 Employee $46.52 $34.02 $12.50 Employee + 1 $105.08 $76.77 $28.31 Employee + 2 or more $105.08 $76.77 $28.31 Employee $46.52 $34.02 $12.50 Employee + 1 $105.08 $76.77 $28.31 Employee + 2 or more $105.08 $76.77 $28.31 Employee $46.52 $43.35 $3.17 Employee + 1 $105.08 $97.81 $7.27 Employee + 2 or more $105.08 $97.81 $7.27 DELTA CARE (HMO) Employee $24.17 $24.17 $0.00 Employee + 1 $52.23 $52.23 $0.00 Employee + 2 or more $52.23 $52.23 $0.00 Employee $24.17 $21.31 $2.86 Employee + 1 $52.23 $46.05 $6.18 Employee + 2 or more $52.23 $46.05 $6.18 Employee $24.17 $21.31 $2.86 Employee + 1 $52.23 $46.05 $6.18 Employee + 2 or more $52.23 $46.05 $6.18 Employee $24.17 $24.17 $0.00 Employee + 1 $52.23 $52.23 $0.00 Employee + 2 or more $52.23 $52.23 $0.00 VSP VOLUNTARY VISION PLAN Employee $8.55 $0.00 $8.55 Employee + 1 $17.10 $0.00 $17.10 Employee + 2 or more $27.54 $0.00 $27.54 For CCHP Plans DELTA DENTAL PREMIER PPO - $1,800 Annual Maximum Without a Health Plan For Health Net Plans For Kaiser Permanente Plans Without a Health Plan For CCHP Plans For Health Net Plans For Kaiser Permanente Plans PAGE 2 OF 2 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2790 Name: Status:Type:Discussion Item Passed File created:In control:8/22/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:CONSIDER providing direction to prepare the final drafts of the Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan and Contra Costa County Climate Action and Adaptation Plan 2024 Update and bring these plans back to the Board of Supervisors for adoption, as recommended by the County Planning Commission and Conservation and Development Director. (John Kopchik, Conservation and Development Director) Attachments:, , , , , , , , , , , , , , Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass 5:0 To:Board of Supervisors From:John Kopchik, Director, Conservation and Development Report Title:Discussion of Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan and Draft Contra Costa County Climate Action and Adaptation Plan 2024 Update ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: PROVIDE direction to prepare the final drafts of the Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan and Contra Costa County Climate Action and Adaptation Plan 2024 Update and bring these plans back to the Board of Supervisors for adoption, as recommended by the County Planning Commission and Director of the Department of Conservation and Development. FISCAL IMPACT: The costs associated with developing the updates to the County’s General Plan and CAAP have been previously allocated. BACKGROUND: I.Envision Contra Costa Overview Envision Contra Costa is the County’s program to update its General Plan, Zoning Code, and Climate Action Plan (CAP). These planning documents were adopted in 1991, 1947, and 2015, respectively. Piecemeal amendments to the General Plan and Zoning Code have been adopted over the years, but neither has ever been comprehensively updated. The CAP, while adopted more recently, was originally intended as a five-year plan and has become dated because of changes in State law, continued growth in CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 3 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2790,Version:1 our understanding of climate change and its consequences, and technological advancements that have provided new tools for addressing the challenge. The Board of Supervisors in December 2017 directed the Department of Conservation and Development (DCD) to comprehensively update all three documents. Substantive work on Envision Contra Costa began in September 2018. Public outreach began in February 2019 and has continued throughout the entire process. Staff from DCD and the County’s Envision Contra Costa consultant, PlaceWorks, have since conducted or attended over 150 public and quasi-public meetings where community members, advocates, stakeholders, and public officials had an opportunity to provide comments. Numerous letters and emails have also been received. The public’s robust participation has greatly influenced the process. II.Discussion of Recommended Edits to the Draft General Plan and Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan On October 17, 2023, DCD published the Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan and Draft Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan 2024 Update (the latter has since been renamed the Contra Costa County Climate Action and Adaptation Plan 2024 Update, or CAAP). The six-month public comment period ended on April 22, 2024. Extensive public outreach was conducted, as described in Attachment A. DCD received 81 comment letters and emails, and 63 comments through an online commenting platform, Konveio, that was linked to both documents (Attachments D, E, and F). Since April, staff of DCD and other County departments, particularly Public Works and Health Services, have been working with PlaceWorks to review the public comments and prepare edits to the Draft General Plan and Draft CAAP. The purpose of this meeting is to provide the Board of Supervisors with an opportunity to review and comment on DCD’s recommended edits to the Draft General Plan and Draft CAAP and provide direction on final revisions to the plans. The recommended edits are presented in detail in Attachment A and three of its attachments (Attachment A.1 Draft 2045 General Plan Revised Glossary, A.2 Draft 2045 General Plan Revised Maps, and A.3 Public Review Draft #2 Climate Action and Adaptation Plan 2024 Update). Within Attachment A are links to a 2-page General Plan and CAAP user guide, 12-page overview of both plans, and Spanish language PowerPoint slides describing both plans. These are presented as Attachments A.4, A.5, and A.6, respectively. Regarding the attached General Plan maps, only the revised versions are provided. To identify changes, one must compare the Attachment A.2 maps to those in the October 2023 Draft 2045 General Plan found at envisioncontracosta2040.org/documents/ <http://envisioncontracosta2040.org/documents/>. Most recommended changes to the maps are refinements in response to public comments or were initiated by staff to clarify content. The Land Use Map (Figure LU-1) has been revised to address various anomalies and inconsistencies, reflect significant changes in ownership or use since October 2023 (such as East Bay Regional Park District land acquisitions and recording of conservation easements), and further support the Draft General Plan’s policy goals, such as environmental protection and promotion of infill development. The existing General Plan Land Use Map, October 2023 Draft Land Use Map, and September 2024 Draft Land Use Map can be viewed at CCMap < https://www.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=92d542bcb39247e8b558021bd0446d18> by opening the Layers List and selecting the desired version(s) of the map. On August 28, 2024, the County Planning Commission held a public meeting to review staff’s recommended edits to the Draft General Plan and Draft CAAP. Following public testimony, the CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 3 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2790,Version:1 Commission voted unanimously (7-0) to recommend that the Board of Supervisors accept staff’s recommended edits with the following additions: 1. Include the Franklin Canyon area along State Route 4 east of Hercules in the Alhambra Valley, Reliez Valley, and Briones Community Profile and revise the text of the Profile to further emphasize the importance of emergency response services and evacuation planning in that part of the county. 2. Include a provision for development of a comprehensive funding strategy for the CAAP. Staff notes that CAAP Implementation Strategy 3 (see Attachment A.3, page 147 [PDF page 171]) already addresses the issue of securing funding for CAAP implementation. 3. Include provisions aimed at incentivizing and increasing participation in public-private partnerships to facilitate CAAP implementation. Staff agrees with these recommendations and will make the necessary changes in the final drafts of the General Plan and CAAP if the Board concurs. Not reflected in the Commission’s recommendation are suggestions by a public speaker that the El Sobrante Community Profile be revised to include additional policy language promoting bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure improvements, particularly along San Pablo Dam Road. Staff has since been in contact with the speaker, who provided more detailed comments that must be reviewed by the Public Works Department prior to making a recommendation for inclusion in the final General Plan. III.Next Steps Staff will revise the Draft General Plan and Draft CAAP per the Board’s direction. State law requires the County Planning Commission to conduct a public hearing on the proposed General Plan and provide a recommendation to the Board prior to adoption. Staff anticipates scheduling a hearing before the CPC in early Fall to consider recommending adoption of the final General Plan and CAAP, and certification of the final environmental impact report covering both plans. An adoption hearing before the Board would be scheduled shortly thereafter. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Without the Board’s final direction on edits to the Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan and Draft Contra Costa County Climate Action and Adaptation Plan 2024 Update, the two plans will not be completed. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 3 of 3 powered by Legistar™ ATTACHMENT A STAFF MEMO DESCRIBING RECOMMENDED EDITS TO DRAFT 2045 GENERAL PLAN MEMORANDUM DATE August 21, 2024 TO Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development FROM PlaceWorks SUBJECT Public Review of Draft 2045 General Plan and Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan 2024 Update and Staff-Recommended Changes Introduction This memo provides a summary of the public outreach efforts and comments on the Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan and the Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan 2024 Update. The memo begins with an overview of the public review process, followed by a summary of the public comments received through the various engagement channels. It concludes by presenting the staff-recommended revisions to the General Plan and Climate Action and Adaptation Plan in response to public comments and new information available since the draft documents were published. Public Review Process The Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan and the Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan 2024 Update were published on the Envision Contra Costa website on October 17, 2023, starting a public comment period that lasted through April 22, 2024. The public review process included digital and in-person activities and events as a means of sharing the draft documents with the public and receiving feedback. Engagement events included: webinars, in-person open houses held in each supervisorial district, Municipal Advisory Committee (MAC) meetings, meetings with various County boards and commissions, and meetings with various community groups. Comments were accepted in written and verbal form at open houses and MAC meetings; written comments were also accepted through an online commenting platform and via email. The announcement of the draft documents and promotion of events primarily occurred via email through the Envision Contra Costa mailing list; during the public comment period, 14 eblasts related to the public review process were sent to the 1,277 subscribers on this mailing list. This outreach also occurred via social media, with 12 unique posts shared to Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter/X. Other methods of outreach and communication occurred through flyer distribution and sharing updates through the various District Supervisor mailing lists and newsletters. County staff also contacted community groups that had attended prior engagement events or otherwise expressed interest in the project and offered to provide an overview of the draft documents at their meetings. To support this public review process, the County prepared the following materials: • A brief, two-page user guide describing the draft documents and how to provide feedback • A 12-page booklet providing a detailed overview of the draft documents and how to provide feedback • A five-part video series describing the draft documents, centered around the four General Plan themes, plus a vision for the future as described by Contra Costa County youth • A presentation in Spanish providing an overview of the draft documents and how to provide feedback The engagement events and channels are described below. Highlights of the public review process include: August 21, 2024 | Page 2 • Notifications to 1,277 mailing list subscribers over 14 eblasts • 12 unique social media posts shared to Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter/X o Facebook: 1,141 views, 30 reactions/likes, and 17 shares o Instagram: 667 views, 64 likes, and 7 shares o Twitter/X: 3,846 views, 8 likes, and 11 retweets/shares • 38 meetings with over 300 attendees • 63 comments by 33 commenters on the online commenting platform • 81 comment letters and emails • 1,349 views of video series, with 7 likes and 5 comments o Nextdoor posts about video series (almost 600,000 followers): viewed by 181,364 users, with 108 thanks and 172 replies o Twitter/X posts about video series (over 23,000 followers): viewed by 10,160 users WEBINARS The County hosted two webinars to provide an overview of the draft documents and the various methods of providing feedback. These events bookended the district open houses with webinars held in December 2023 and March 2024. Each webinar included a high-level presentation of the Draft General Plan and Climate Action and Adaptation Plan contents and themes, followed by an overview of the methods to provide feedback. There was also time for questions from attendees. Simultaneous interpretation from English to Spanish was available at each event. The webinars were held from 5:30 to 6:30 on the following dates: • Webinar 1: December 4, 2023, 25 attendees • Webinar 2: March 26, 2024, 8 attendees DISTRICT OPEN HOUSES The County hosted a series of in-person events in each supervisorial district in the county. The two-hour events were organized in an open house format to allow community members to participate at their own pace. At the sign-in table, attendees received copies of the user guide and the longer booklet summarizing the draft documents, as well as a comment card. There were also printed copies of the public review drafts of the Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan, Climate Action and Adaptation Plan 2024 Update, and Community Profiles (from the General Plan Stronger Communities Element) for viewing. There were seven stations placed around the room with banners presenting key background information and relevant policy topics in English and Spanish. Four of the stations represented the themes of the General Plan: community health, environmental justice, sustainability, and economic development. The three other stations included an overview of the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan, Community Profiles, and countywide land use map. Each station was staffed by a facilitator who recorded comments from the participants, answered questions, and sought feedback to gauge community perspective on the draft documents. A Spanish-speaking facilitator was also available at each event to record comments and answer questions from Spanish speakers. There was also a station with a laptop to demonstrate how to comment on the documents online using the online commenting tool. Approximately 61 community members attended the five events, which were held from 5:00-7:00 PM on the following dates and locations: • District 1 (El Cerrito): February 21, 2024, approximately 13 attendees • District 2 (Alamo): December 14, 2023, approximately 20 attendees August 21, 2024 | Page 3 • District 3 (Knightsen): January 10, 2024, approximately 5 attendees • District 4 (Contra Costa Centre): January 22, 2024, approximately 20 attendees • District 5 (Martinez): March 14, 2024, approximately 3 attendees MAC MEETINGS County staff attended a meeting of each MAC to share information about the draft documents, including the relevant Community Profiles in the General Plan. In total, staff attended 13 MAC meetings, listed below. • Byron MAC: October 24, 2023, approximately 6 attendees • Rodeo MAC: October 26, 2023, 12 attendees • Bay Point MAC: November 7, 2023, approximately 20 attendees • Pacheco MAC: November 8, 2023, 12 attendees • Diablo MAC: November 13, 2023, 19 attendees • Bethel Island MAC: November 14, 2023, 27 attendees • Discovery Bay Community Services District (CSD): November 15, 2023, 19 attendees • Kensington MAC: November 29, 2023, 21 attendees • North Richmond MAC: December 5, 2023, 20 attendees • Alamo MAC: December 5, 2023, 20 attendees • El Sobrante MAC: December 13, 2023, 23 attendees • East Richmond Heights MAC: December 20, 2023, approximately 20 attendees • Knightsen Town Advisory Council (TAC): April 16, 2024, approximately 20 attendees COUNTY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS MEETINGS Various County boards and commissions held study sessions on the draft documents during the public comment period. County staff presented an overview of the draft documents and ways to provide feedback, and answered questions. There were six study sessions with the following boards and commissions: • Board of Supervisors Study Session, October 24, 2023 • Sustainability Committee Meeting, November 27, 2023 • Sustainability Commission Meeting, December 11, 2023 • Aviation Advisory Committee Meeting, January 11, 2024 • Fish and Wildlife Committee Meeting, March 20, 2024 • Transportation, Water, and Infrastructure Committee Meeting, May 13, 2024 COMMUNITY GROUP MEETINGS County staff attended meetings of various community groups and organizations to share information about the draft documents and ways to provide feedback, and answer questions. Staff attended 12 community group meetings, listed below. • Contra Costa Community Economic Resilience Fund Sub-Regional Table, October 26, 2023 • La Clinica and Lifelong Medical Workshop for Promotoras (Community Health Ambassadors): October 28, 2023 • Richmond Community Foundation (RCF) Connects: November 15, 2023 • Industrial Association of Contra Costa County Board of Directors: November 16, 2023 • East Contra Costa Community Alliance: November 17, 2023 • Western States Petroleum Association/Bay Area Refining Committee: December 14, 2023 August 21, 2024 | Page 4 • Healthy and Active Before 5: December 19, 2023 • Contra Costa History Alliance: January 17, 2024 • Contra Costa Taxpayers Association: February 23, 2024 • 350 Contra Costa, Bay Miwok Interfaith Climate Action Network of Contra Costa County, Greenbelt Alliance, GRID Alternatives, Sunflower Alliance, Contra Costa Climate Leaders, Center for Human Development and the East County Community Leaders Network, Climate Reality, Citizens Climate Lobby, and Diablo Water District: March 7, 2024 • Contra Costa Watershed Forum: March 14, 2024 • Concord Historical Society: March 21, 2024 ONLINE AND EMAIL COMMENTS To facilitate online commenting, the County posted the draft documents on Konveio, a document publishing and community engagement software platform. On this platform, community members were able to read the documents in their entirety or search for specific words or phrases of interest and provide comments by clicking anywhere on the document page. Users were also able to view comments made by other users. Nineteen people submitted 39 comments on the Draft General Plan and 14 people submitted 24 comments on the Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan. Community members were also able to email comment letters directly to the County project team. The project team received 81 comment letters and emails from individuals, public agencies, and non-governmental organizations. VIDEO SERIES The County prepared a series of short videos describing the draft documents, centered around the core themes of the General Plan – community health, environmental justice, economic development, and environmental sustainability – as well as a vision for the future articulated by Contra Costa County youth. The videos, which featured District Supervisors, community leaders, and students, were hosted on YouTube and shared via the County’s social media platforms and the Envision Contra Costa mailing list. Social media view statistics are as follows: • Nextdoor posts (almost 600,000 followers): viewed by 181,364 users, with 108 thanks and 172 replies • Twitter/X posts (over 23,000 followers): viewed by 10,160 users • YouTube: Videos viewed 1,349 times, with 7 likes and 5 comments Public Comments Comments on the Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan and the Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan 2024 Update were received at open houses, MAC meetings, and through the online commenting platform and email. OPEN HOUSES Detailed notes from the open house series are available on the Envision Contra Costa website. A summary of the input received for each open house station is provided below. Land Use Open house participants voiced the need for homeownership opportunities and “family-friendly” housing. While the majority of comments recognized that more housing is needed, the sentiment regarding where new housing August 21, 2024 | Page 5 should be built and at what density was not universal. Some participants suggested putting more homes in high- resource areas with good air quality and health conditions instead of increasing density in areas that are burdened with pollution and other challenges. Others commented on the need to transition density from high to low in a way that aligns with existing neighborhood design. Finally, some felt land use changes were happening too quickly. There was concern about overflow parking in neighborhoods from nearby commercial centers and BART stations and a suggestion to increase residential parking in these areas, such as in Contra Costa Centre. Environmental Justice Comments on the Environmental Justice theme related to the placement of housing. Residents voiced concern that too much new housing was being sited in communities with high pollution levels. Participants suggested increasing residential density in affluent, low-pollution neighborhoods. Community Health Participants were supportive of policies that expand bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure throughout the county, especially those intending to create a complete bicycle network and reduced the need for cyclists to cross busy roads unprotected. There was also support for additional libraries throughout the county to improve social cohesion, as libraries serve as a gathering space and archive for the area’s history. Economic Development Comments received at the Economic Development station related to housing, open space, and local representation in governance. Participants suggested a diverse mix of affordable housing sizes and types, including those for young families. Others suggested developing single-family homes instead of more multi- family housing. Participants suggested that new open space in residential developments be at the ground level instead of on rooftops to ensure public accessibility. Participants also noted a feeling of a lack of representation, both from land use decisions made by adjacent incorporated jurisdictions and the viewpoints of elected County officials. Sustainability Participants voiced concern regarding water management and climate change as patterns of rainfall and therefore flooding could change. They suggested focusing on solutions for rainwater capture and groundwater management to prevent flooding. Community Profiles Feedback received on the Community Profiles was specific to individual communities, often the one where the Open House was hosted or nearest to. Most of the comments received were related to housing and land use. Some residents expressed concern over increasing density in their community while others encouraged it. Participants suggested focusing on homeownership as a community goal. They also suggested clustering development of housing, both single-family and multi-family, and including buffer areas between areas of high and low density. Finally, there was a suggestion to improve pedestrian safety. Climate Action and Adaptation Plan In relation to the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan, participants commented on specific activities that produce or reduce emissions and on the concept of public education around environmental issues. There was a suggestion to reduce emissions from wastewater processing. There was concern regarding the negative health impacts of artificial turf. There was a suggestion to provide more education on zero-emission modes of August 21, 2024 | Page 6 transportation and transportation planning assistance to encourage residents to switch from personal gas- powered vehicles. There was also a suggestion to create an “integrated communication plan” for sharing climate action commitments and progress with residents. There was concern around streets being too narrow for compost service in specific neighborhoods. Finally, there was concern regarding rising home insurance costs due to wildfire and other hazard risks. MAC MEETINGS Given the localized focus of the MAC meetings, the feedback gathered at these meetings was mostly relevant to the Community Profiles section of the General Plan Stronger Communities Element, although some comments relate to countywide General Plan policy. Feedback received at each MAC meeting is summarized below. Byron • Questions about the Urban Limit Line and its relation to Byron. • Comments about proposed density changes in agricultural areas. • Concerns with the Byron Community Profile inaccurately describing the community. Rodeo • New John Swett Unified School District School Garden being planted. • Concerns about a potential new gas station being built in Rodeo. There’s already one gas station and no grocery store in the community. The nearest grocery store is in the city up a hill. • There are no bus stops/routes that serve Rodeo. • Concerns about landscaping and certain areas of the community lying empty with no new vegetation. Bay Point • Protect pedestrian corridors. • Concern about property owned by PG&E in Bay Point and allegations of potential release of unusual substances onto adjacent properties. • The Community Advisory Panel is working to plant native plant species to absorb metals from the ground in certain areas of Bay Point. • Questions were raised about what energy efficiency services are offered by the County for low - income residents and if the County has incentives for installing solar and for panel upgrades. • Question about what the County is doing to get more public EV charging stations in Bay Point. There is only one EV charging station in the community, and it is not easy to get to for many residents. Pacheco • Question about whether the General Plan applies to the unincorporated county only. • Question about whether the GHG reduction goals are in alignment with State targets. • Question about what climate equity is. • Question about whether the County will be incentivizing activities that will be required to meet our reduction targets. Diablo • Question about how to best get the word out about the updated General Plan and Climate Action and Adaptation Plan. August 21, 2024 | Page 7 • Question about what the County is doing to support Historic Districts and whether they are included in the General Plan. • Question about whether the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan includes estimates/maps for sea level rise in the Bay. Bethel Island Flooding Comments: • High level of concern from community members about flooding. o It took 11 months to get an updated map of ditches and drainage. o It’s unclear who has authority to plan for resilience centers. o The Local Hazard Mitigation Plan does not anticipate the flooding experienced in the community in the last few years. o Roads are designed with a crown to shed water, and this sends water onto residents’ properties. Questions about who should collect and convey that water. o Request for an additional evacuation route. o Concerns that government won’t take responsibility for helping residents with these concerns. • Concerns about whether/how rescue efforts would happen on Bethel Island if there were an emergency, particularly flooding or bridge closed. • Residents are frustrated that they have been raising these concerns with the MAC and there does not appear to be any action by the MAC or the Board of Supervisors. Other Comments: • Questions about whether there is a change to zoning proposed, and whether a residential property could be rezoned to commercial if it wants to lease out dock space. • Question about whether the General Plan includes traffic studies. • Concerns about new homes being built in the area and these new residents are creating traffic congestion. This is particularly worrisome for residents if there is a need to evacuate. • Community Profile incorrectly states there is a fire station on the island. • Questions about the relationship between the City of Oakley and the County and which agencies can influence the rate of new housing allowed in Oakley. • Concerns about road improvements. Discovery Bay • Provided an overview of Community Services District’s past comment letters and input on the General Plan. • Question about CEQA review requirements for projects that abide by the General Plan/Climate Action and Adaptation Plan. • Noted a few edits to the Discovery Bay Community Profile; for example, Discovery Bay refers to waterways as “bays” and information about Slifer Park needs to be updated. The CSD Board will compile comments and submit them to the County. • Discussion about the residential land use designation on the parcel across from the Community Center. Questions about the County’s role in approving the project, whether the County can deny the project, whether the property owner has to build according to the land use designation, and whether the property owner can do nothing. August 21, 2024 | Page 8 • Concern about funding for additional utilities, infrastructure, and emergency services if more housing is built. • Discussion about Cecchini Ranch property. • Question about how the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan, which aims to reduce emissions, works with the General Plan, which increases emissions due to additional development. Kensington • Question about whether seismic retrofit incentives for residential properties were already available. • Compliments for efficiency of permitting process to retrofit all sidewalks to include ramps for accessibility. • Question about how to leave comments online. • Question about whether the General Plan and/or Local Hazard Mitigation Plan address mudslide hazards. Concerns about recent rain levels leading to more mudslide hazards. North Richmond • Discussion about the Light Industry land use designation. • Concern about trucks going through the community. • Discussion about housing density. Questions about why the General Plan allows more housing in this community and suggestion to provide for lower-density housing. • Concern about differences in resources and tax value. Discussion about advantages to obtaining State funding when in well-resourced communities. • Support for trend of homeownership, noting that Parkway Estates and Bella Flores are thriving. • Question about whether investments in infrastructure will happen. • Discussion about quality of life and mixed use. • Discussion about warehouse moratorium for North Richmond. • Concerns about light industrial impacts on quality of life. • Question about how the County is getting information to the community. • Question about what the first sentence about the purpose of the General Plan means and what changes are being considered (e.g., housing, bike lanes, physical activity). • Questions about GHG emissions from different sectors and why some are higher/lower. • Questions about the 30-year goals and whether they consider the community that will be here at that time. Questions about how the County accounts for demographics and community preferences. Alamo • Questions about current energy efficiency programs, including BayREN. • Questions and comments on State housing allocation for Alamo. El Sobrante • Suggestion to explore creating a noise ordinance for smaller gatherings of less than 75 people. Noise and parties are a big issue after the pandemic. • Concern about a traffic study to be done looking at a road diet for improved bike lanes. • Concerns about traffic and not being able to evacuate in an emergency. • Difficulty reaching Public Works. Community members want to discuss a variety of issues with them but are unable to get them to attend MAC meetings or respond to their concerns. • Highlghted the Chamber of Commerce. August 21, 2024 | Page 9 • Discussion about appointing people to serve on the revitalized Planning and Zoning Committee, which would be focused on going out to sites for which a planning application has been submitted to evaluate in-person the impacts to neighbors, since it’s hard to interpret the impacts of plans on paper. • Concerns about the time it takes to get to the emergency room and receive medical attention. There is a lack of capacity in West County for emergency room service. The only place to receive emergency room care in West County is Kaiser Richmond; otherwise people are transported to Walnut Creek, Martinez, or Oakland. • Questions about whether land use designations on the land use map are consistent and compatible with the land uses on parcels controlled by the cities. In El Sobrante, one side or segment of a street is within the City of Richmond while the other side/segment of the same street is within the County’s jurisdiction, without any clear distinction between the two; there needs to be more coordination between the cities and the County. East Richmond Heights • Questions about how the General Plan will protect views. • Question about how walkability will be addressed in the General Plan. • Question about whether there is a height limit in the Mixed-Use designation. • Question about how to access the Draft General Plan. Knightsen • Questions and comments about the Urban Limit Line, particularly where Brentwood and Oakley abut the unincorporated county. • Questions about the density requirements/limitations for agricultural areas. • Comments about the County’s permitting processes. COMMENT LETTERS/EMAIL AND KONVEIO COMMENTS Below is a summary of comments received through comment letters and emails and the Konveio platform. Visit this link to see all letters and emails commenting on the Draft General Plan and Climate Action and Adaptation Plan, organized chronologically. To see the Konveio comments on the Draft General Plan, visit this link, which presents the Draft General Plan with embedded comments. To see the Konveio comments on the Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan, visit this link, which presents the Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan with embedded comments. Draft General Plan • Stronger Communities Element » Increase residential density in areas with low pollution and access to jobs and schools using thoughtful transitions to existing development. » Permanently protect all affordable housing. » Increase accountability and ensure impacts from development are thoroughly reviewed and mitigated. » Increase attention and stringency in policies to protect children and young people, who are sensitive receptors, when considering industrial siting and development. » Ensure that County construction follows high road labor standards to provide living-wage construction jobs and optimal climate performance; organize housing construction under project labor agreements. August 21, 2024 | Page 10 • Land Use Element » Address concerns regarding neighborhood character changing as higher densities are proposed, specifically on Cherry Lane in Contra Costa Centre. » Effectively integrate high-density development into existing low-density neighborhoods with thoughtful transitions or buffers. » Encourage homeownership and a diverse mix of housing types. • Transportation Element » Remove language related to Level of Service and replace with vehicle miles traveled (VMT) as the main metric for measuring traffic impacts. » Add more specificity and detail to the active transportation section. » Improve pedestrian and cyclist safety through expansion of the sidewalk and bicycle network and addition of safety devices (e.g., crossing signals). » Include references to electric bicycles when discussing electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. » Phase out the use of leaded aviation fuel to reduce the health impacts to nearby communities, especially to sensitive receptors like children. • Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element » Increase attention to ecological and natural resource areas when considering road and highway projects and development. » Revise policy language to include references to "creeks" specifically when discussing other waterways. Expand policies to protect creeks and riparian areas through such practices as removing barriers to fish passage, removing invasive plant species, and planting native plant species. » Establish a moratorium on oil and gas production well permits while the new ordinance is being developed. » Increase the restrictions on oil and gas production well permits (e.g., increased setbacks from sensitive receptors or outright ban). » Require regular, periodic monitoring of emissions at existing oil and gas operations. • Health and Safety Element » Replace natural gas appliances with electric options to improve indoor air quality and lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. » Address concerns regarding rising insurance costs due to hazards, or cancelation of insurance due to increased risk. » Provide more comprehensive maps that show additional information within the incorporated cities and towns. » Encourage industrial modernization projects that support State energy and climate goals, reduce environmental contamination, and support healthy working conditions. • Multiple Elements » Add more specific implementation timelines and language, especially for environmental policies. » Rectify inconsistencies between Climate Action and Adaptation Plan strategies and actions and General Plan policies. Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan • Include language to monitor tree canopies and ensure effective tree replacement. • Consider the role of artificial turf. August 21, 2024 | Page 11 • Provide greater clarification on the role of offsets. • Increase the certainty of specific commitments and provide more information regarding performance standards. • Speed up Climate Action and Adaptation Plan implementation. • Create an online dashboard to monitor implementation of Climate Action and Adaptation Plan strategies and actions. • Provide more detailed descriptions of tables and charts, as these are complicated technical processes that are not always approachable for the average reader. • Provide a more detailed explanation of the increases and decreases in GHG emissions between inventory years and forecast years. Staff-Recommended Changes to the General Plan Staff conducted a detailed review of the comments received on the Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan. This section presents staff-recommended changes to the Draft General Plan in response to these comments. Each recommended change is presented after a reference to the comment(s) to which the change responds. Not every individual public comment is addressed. For specific comments not referenced in this memo, staff is not recommending a change in response. This section also presents staff-recommended changes to the Draft General Plan that are based on new information that has become available since the Draft General Plan was published on October 17, 2023, as well as changes recommended by staff to clarify the content. Changes are presented by striking out text to delete and underlining text to add. Other changes are described as appropriate. Changes are labeled by the page number of the corresponding text from the October 17, 2023, draft. For changes to goals, policies, actions, figures, and tables, the associated number is listed; for introductory narrative or contextual text, the section name is provided. Please note that staff plans to update photos and captions throughout the document, but those changes are not presented in this memo, as they do not affect the substance of the General Plan. All map figure edits are discussed together at the end of this section. VISION PAGE (AFTER TITLE PAGE) The following change is recommended in response to a joint comment letter received on March 25, 2024, from 350 Contra Costa Action, Sunflower Alliance, Grid Alternatives, Bike East Bay, Contra Costa County Climate Leaders, Greenbelt Alliance, Citizens Climate Lobby, 1000 Grandmothers for Future Generations, Interfaith Climate Action Network, Center for Human Development and East County Community Leaders Network, Climate Reality Bay Area, and Sierra Club. • All communities benefit equitably from an environmentally sustainable, prosperous, and just economy. growing economy that is sustainable and just. August 21, 2024 | Page 12 INTRODUCTION The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 1-1/Legal Authority California law Government Code Section 65301 requires every county and city in the state to adopt a general plan “for the physical development of the county or city, and of any land outside its boundaries which in the planning agency’s judgement bears relation to its planning.” Page 1-2/Legal Authority Together with specific plans adopted for various communities, the Zoning Code and related sections of the County Ordinance Code, Climate Action and Adaptation Plan, and Objective Design Standards, the County’s General Plan serves as the basis for planning- and infrastructure-related decisions made by County staff, the County Planning Commission and other County commissions and committees, and the Board of Supervisors. Page 1-2/User’s Guide It was crafted with a constant eye toward keeping it clear, implementable, and useful as time passes, implementable, and easy to understand. The graphic on the following page explains the individual components found on a typical page of the Plan that provides providing policy guidance. Page 1-4/Table INT-1 Stronger Communities/Also incorporated throughout all most other Elements Page 1-7/Implementing the General Plan Long-range planning in Contra Costa County does not end begins with adoption of the General Plan. To achieve the community’s vision and objectives, decisions about on development projects, capital improvements, County programs and services, and other issues related to the physical environment must be consistent with the General Plan’s policies. In addition, the The implementing actions identified throughout the Plan must be carried out. Finally, the County needs to must monitor progress in achieving the major goals of the Plan, periodically adjusting policy guidance as needed to advance those goals in response to contextual changes that may occur over the next 20 years through the 2024-2045 planning period. Page 1-8/Relationship of the General Plan to Other County Planning Documents • The Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) implements the General Plan’s policy guidance to adapt to changing climate conditions and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The CA AP addresses behaviors, regulations, and investment decisions that directly reduce GHG emissions or promote climate resilience and lays out an implementation and monitoring program to ensure that the County reduces GHG emissions consistent with State emissions reduction targets. State law requires consistency between the General Plan and its subordinate implementing documents. Therefore Thus, when the General Plan is amended, the County must review its other planning documents and amend them as necessary to ensure consistency is maintained consistency with the General Plan. Pursuant to State law, wherever a conflict or inconsistency exists between the General Plan and its subordinate documents, the General Plan controls and shall be followed. August 21, 2024 | Page 13 Page 1-8/General Plan Action Program The Contra Costa County DCD is responsible for maintaining the Action Program and tracking implementation progress. The Action Program is maintained as an accompanying document to the General Plan so that it can be regularly updated as actions are accomplished without the need for a formal General Plan amendment. As with other County policy documents, The pace of implementation of the aActions Program ultimately is subject to dependent on the resources that the County and its partners have to carry them out available and need to must remain consistent with the County’s long-term financial plans, as reflected in its annual budget. Page 1-8/Header and text edit Tracking Assessing Progress Toward Goals Every five years over the lifetime of the General Plan, the County will track assess progress in achieving its major goals through a review of the performance measures listed at the end of each General Plan Element. PLANNING CONTEXT The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 2-6/Relationship Between Land Use Practices and Socioeconomic Outcomes (new image and caption) Restrictive covenants like this were included in the deeds to thousands of residential properties developed in Contra Costa County following World War II. Page 2-6/The General Plan Update Process Over the next four five years, the County held or participated in over 125 150 public and community-organized meetings with residents, community advocates, stakeholders, and public officials, including: • Multiple Mmeetings of the Board of Supervisors, Planning Commission, Sustainability Commission, Library Commission, Hazardous Materials Commission, Arts and Culture Commission, Sustainability Committee, Transportation, Water, and Infrastructure Committee, Aviation Advisory Committee, Historic Landmarks Advisory Committee, Aviation Advisory Committee, and all 13 Municipal Advisory Councils. • Almost Over 50 community meetings, workshops, and open houses held across the county. • Stakeholder meetings on environmental justice, community health, sustainability, and economic development. • Native American tribal consultations. • Over 230 meetings with various community-based organizations representing a wide range of interests in the county. August 21, 2024 | Page 14 Page 2-7/The General Plan Update Process The countywide policy framework is based on a combination of guidance from the 1991 General Plan, input from community members and decision-makers throughout the process, State and local laws, and best practices in the planning field, and to a lesser extent, guidance from the 1991 General Plan. Page 2-8/The General Plan Update Process During the second half of 2022 and into 2023, the County refined the countywide goals, policies, and actions and prepared the remaining components of the General Plan (e.g., maps, context, and glossary, etc.). The entire completed draft General Plan, along with the draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) and their accompanying draft Environmental Impact Report, were released for public review in Fall October 2023, with the review period ending in April 2024. Nearly 300 individual comments and suggestions were submitted. The County reviewed these comments and presented revised drafts of the General Plan and CAAP to the Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors during study sessions in August and September 2024. STRONGER COMMUNITIES ELEMENT The following change is recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 3-1/Introductory text • The Economic Vitality and Empowerment section includes policy guidance to develop and maintain a workforce that possesses the education and skills employers need, promote living wage job opportunities, and cultivate a thriving economy that contributes to the region’s economic health. The following change is recommended in response to a comment letter received on April 22, 2024, from Holland and Knight on behalf of the Committee for Industrial Safety. Page 3-3/Environmental Justice Contra Costa County is home to a high concentration of refineries and other large industrial facilities. While these industries contribute to pollution and contamination in Impacted Communities, many community members also value the they also provide jobs, tax benefits revenue, community investments, and local energy production they provide. The following change is recommended in response to a comment letter received on February 12, 2024, from the Western States Petroleum Association. Page 3-5/Policy SC-P1.1 In partnership with residents of Impacted Communities, affected workers, business/industry, environmental and environmental justice advocates, community colleges, workforce development and training entities, local government, and other involved agencies, support transition from petroleum refining and other highly polluting industries to a net-zero emission economy based on renewable and sustainable industries that provide living- wage jobs. August 21, 2024 | Page 15 The following change is recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 3-5/Policy SC-P1.2 Streamline the permitting process for new development, redevelopment, and rehabilitation projects that promotes community objectives in Impacted Communities, especially as identified in the Community Profiles. The following change is recommended in response to a joint comment letter received on March 25, 2024, from 350 Contra Costa Action, Sunflower Alliance, Grid Alternatives, Bike East Bay, Contra Costa County Climate Leaders, Greenbelt Alliance, Citizens Climate Lobby, 1000 Grandmothers for Future Generations, Interfaith Climate Action Network, Center for Human Development and East County Community Leaders Network, Climate Reality Bay Area, and Sierra Club. Page 3-5/Policy SC-P1.3 Support development creation of walkable districts by facilitating development of that provide a range of neighborhood-serving retail and service uses, public amenities, and related essential infrastructure (such as lighting) to for residents of Impacted Communities within walking distance of their homes. The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 3-5/Policy SC-P1.5 Maintain a streamlined process to permit and facilitate partial and temporary street closures for community- driven sponsored amenities and activities, such as parklets, farmers’ markets, arts and cultural events, and outdoor dining, and assist applicants through the permit process. Page 3-5/Policy SC-P1.6 For projects with potential to negatively affecting an Impacted Community, support community benefits agreements (CBAs) negotiated with the project applicant to address the community’s expressed needs. The primary objective of these CBAs is to mitigate project impacts to the greatest extent possible, which could include mitigations exceeding the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Secondarily, to compensate for impacts that cannot be fully mitigated, these CBAs should secure community benefits that exceed inherent project benefits and support the community’s objectives, especially as identified in the Community Profile. Neighborhood-serving retail uses that fill critical needs are exempt from this policy. The following change is recommended in response to a comment letter received on February 12, 2024, from the Western States Petroleum Association, and a comment letter received on April 22, 2024, from Holland and Knight on behalf of the Committee for Industrial Safety. Page 3-6/Action SC-A1.1 Partner with the stakeholders identified in Policy SC-P1.1 to develop and implement a plan to transition from petroleum-refining and other highly polluting industries to renewable, sustainable, and clean industries that provide living-wage jobs. The plan should address site remediation responsibilities along with timelines and strategies to improve health, safety, infrastructure, job opportunities, and revenue opportunities during the transition toward a net-zero-emission economy, paying special attention to developing new opportunities for August 21, 2024 | Page 16 Impacted Communities to realize economic, health, educational, and other benefits , without placing a disproportionate economic burden on those with the least means. The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 3-6/Action SC-A1.2 (c) Require preparation of a plan to prevent and remediate any contaminant releases, along with bonds or other financial assurances that guarantee remediation plans are implemented, for projects in areas subject to sea-level rise or tsunami inundation. This concept is addressed in Policy HS-P10.3. The following change is recommended in response to a comment letter received on April 22, 2024, from Holland and Knight on behalf of the Committee for Industrial Safety and based on new information or to clarify content. Pages 3-6 to 3-7/Action SC-A1.3 With input from residents of Impacted Communities, amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to create an Impacted Communities Overlay Zone that applies to areas within and adjacent to Impacted Communities. and establishes requirements for discretionary permits for nonresidential developments of Heavy industrial projects and commercial and light industrial projects resulting in 25,000 square feet or more of gross habitable floor area within . Tthe overlay zone will include additional be required to satisfy additional discretionary permit project findings that promote environmental justice, health, and safety, and economic prosperity. Projects able to satisfy the required findings will: (a) Provide benefits that support the community objectives, such as those identified in the Community Profile. (b) Provide economic benefits, including jobs, for residents of the community. (c) Avoid unwelcome permanent displacement of existing residents or businesses in the community. (d) Support community resiliency, cohesion, and safety. (e) Positively impact health and quality of life within the community. Create guidance for demonstrating consistency with these findings Aas part of the process to develop this ordinance, create guidance for demonstrating consistency with these findings. The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 3-12/Action SC-A2.1 Study the feasibility of implementing an amortization process to relocate or eliminate non-conforming land uses, with a focus on public nuisances and uses that pose threats to public health and safety. Page 3-13/Goal SC-3 Move Action SC-A3.1 to instead be Policy SC-P3.4: Welcome establishment of medical clinics, behavioral health facilities, and pharmacies in Impacted Communities. Renumber the remaining actions accordingly. Page 3-14/Policy SC-P4.3 Encourage urban agriculture, including urban farms and community gardens with collectively shared and managed plots, and demonstration and educational gardens operated by community organizations and August 21, 2024 | Page 17 educational institutions. Allow associated, limited on-site sales, processing facilities of value-added products, and complementary agricultural activities when compatible with adjacent uses. The following change is recommended in response to a comment letter received on April 4, 2024, from the Alameda County Water District. Page 3-15/Policy SC-P4.4 Support programs administered by water or wastewater service providers that increase the availability of recycled water for urban agriculture and landscaping through self-fill stations and similar facilities. The following change is recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 3-16/Action SC-A5.5 Study the feasibility of restricting preventing fast-food restaurants from locating near schools, parks, and other places where children normally gather. The following new policy is recommended in response to a joint comment letter received on March 25, 2024, from 350 Contra Costa Action, Sunflower Alliance, Grid Alternatives, Bike East Bay, Contra Costa County Climate Leaders, Greenbelt Alliance, Citizens Climate Lobby, 1000 Grandmothers for Future Generations, Interfaith Climate Action Network, Center for Human Development and East County Community Leaders Network, Climate Reality Bay Area, and Sierra Club. Page 3-19/Goal SC-6 New Policy SC-P6.4: Support voluntary removal of natural gas infrastructure and appliances from homes and replacement with electric appliances. The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 3-20/Action SC-A7.1 Amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to establish a public art requirement for new development and funding mechanisms to create and maintain public art. Page 3-21/Header edit Economic Vitality and Empowerment The following change is recommended in response to a comment letter received on March 11, 2024, from the Contra Costa Building and Construction Trades Council. Page 3-24/Action SC-A8.1 Establish a First Source Hiring Program requiring encouraging developers, contractors, and employers to make good-faith efforts toward employing the local construction workforce to construct and operate their facilities, with emphasis on residents of Impacted Communities and those who are economically disadvantaged. August 21, 2024 | Page 18 The following change is recommended in response to a joint comment letter received on March 25, 2024, from 350 Contra Costa Action, Sunflower Alliance, Grid Alternatives, Bike East Bay, Contra Costa County Climate Leaders, Greenbelt Alliance, Citizens Climate Lobby, 1000 Grandmothers for Future Generations, Interfaith Climate Action Network, Center for Human Development and East County Community Leaders Network, Climate Reality Bay Area, and Sierra Club. Pages 3-24 to 3-25/Action SC-A8.2 Partner with school districts, community colleges, community organizations, large employers, trade associations, unions, and job training centers to support enhanced job-skills training, recruitment programs and services, and childcare services to support the county’s workforce, especially workers in Impacted Communities. Work with experienced groups to ensure that programs will be properly staffed and funded. Training and intervention strategies should reduce barriers to employment for youth, formerly incarcerated residents, and residents with limited English proficiency, and should support a just transition from a fossil-fuel reliant economy by re-training displaced workers with skills for living-wage jobs in new, environmentally sustainable industries. The following change is recommended in response to a comment letter received on April 22, 2024, from Holland and Knight on behalf of the Committee for Industrial Safety. Page 3-25/Business Innovation Enhancing Contra Costa County’s success as an economic hub depends on retaining, supporting, and attracting a diverse range of businesses that will sustain the local economy despite changing market forces. Petroleum refineries have been Ssome of the largest employers and strongest economic drivers in the unincorporated county have traditionally been in the petroleum refining industry, for over 100 years. but While demand for refined products remains significant and will persist until replacement technologies exist for current uses, the long-term future of these large facilities is uncertain, and two of the four Contra Costa refineries have begun transitioneding their operations as global and national energy trends shift toward carbon-free and renewable energy sources. Going forward, the county’s economy should be centered on sustainable, clean, and green businesses and industries that provide living-wage jobs while protecting community health and the environment. The following change is recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 3-27/Policy SC-P9.2 Position Contra Costa County to be a hub of production and employment for industries that spur economic growth and innovation in the transition toward a zero-emission economy. The following new action is recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 3-28/Goal SC-9 New Action SC-A9.3: Nominate the Phillips 66 San Francisco (Rodeo) Refinery and surrounding industrial areas, including the site of the former Phillips 66 Carbon Plant in Franklin Canyon, as a Priority Production Area. Renumber the subsequent actions accordingly. August 21, 2024 | Page 19 The following change is recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 3-28/Action SC-A9.3 Evaluate commercial and industrial regulations and permitting practices on an ongoing basis to ensure that they: (a) Address contemporary uses and activities. (b) Promote compatibility between new and legacy existing uses. (c) Avoid creating unnecessary barriers that hinder economic expansion prosperity, investment, and sustainable growth. August 21, 2024 | Page 20 STRONGER COMMUNITIES ELEMENT: COMMUNITY PROFILES ALL PROFILES The following global changes are recommended by staff for each Community Profile to clarify content. Under the “Major Vulnerabilities” heading “single-access roads” should be hyphenated. All parenthetical references to the existing General Plan and Richmond Quality of Life Plan should be removed. For example: “Encourage commercial uses to be neighborhood-scale andcommercial uses that serve the needs of the community. Discourage large-scale commercial uses catering to a more regional customer base. (3-117, 3-123)” The first sentence in the “Planned Land Use” section should be revised as follows: “Land use designations for [COMMUNITY NAME] are shown on Figure LU-1, General Plan Land Use Map, and are defined in Table LU-1 in the Land Use Element. ALAMO AND CASTLE HILL The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information, to clarify content, or to remove redundancies with countywide goals, policies, and actions. Context The Alamo and Castle Hill communities are located between Walnut Creek and DanvilleA, with a portion of Castle Hill within Walnut Creek’s Sphere of Influence. They communities are renownedknown for their comfortable residential neighborhoods, wooded hillsides, excellent schools, well-maintained parks, and strong sense of community. A portion of Castle Hill is within the Sphere of Influence of the City of Walnut Creek. Alamo and Castle Hill are mostly comprised of single-family ranch-style homes on relatively large lots. However, Alamo also includes multiple-family housinghomes along Danville Boulevard south of Stone Valley Road and estates on large rural tracts. Planned Land Use Alamo contains an area along Danville Boulevard designated Mixed -Use Community-Specific Density, which overlaps a well-established commercial core comprised of existing uses that serve many residents' daily needs. The commercial viability of this mixed-use area is to be maintained while allowing for development of higher- density residential uses that provide a mix of housing options. Over time, more diversea variety of housing types may be developed, diversifying the housing stock and accommodating housing needs at different stages of life. Guiding Principles 1. Multiple-family unitshomes should generally be located within one mile of the Downtown Alamo’s commercial core to provide residents access to transit, commercial services, and the Iron Horse Trail. Policies 1. Preserve the Downtown Alamo mixed-use area’s role as a business district serving nearby neighborhoods. Support retention of active commercial uses and local-serving businesses while promoting new residential development. August 21, 2024 | Page 21 5. Encourage commercial uses to be neighborhood-scale andcommercial uses that serve the needs of the community. Discourage large-scale commercial uses catering to a more regional customer base. (3-117, 3-123) The following change is recommended in response to a comment letter received on March 26, 2024, from the Alamo Improvement Association as well as to clarify context. Policies 6. Maintain Danville Boulevard and Stone Valley Road as two-lane roadways outside of Alamo’s business district. Support infrastructure and roadway improvements, including potentialprojects and strategies that improve safety and traffic flow, such as turn lanes and other strategies to improve traffic flow. The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information, to clarify content, or to remove redundancies with countywide goals, policies, and actions. Policies 10. Require new commercial, multiple-family residential, and mixed-use projects along or near the west side of Danville Boulevard to provide unobstructed bicycle/pedestrian paths and public access to the Iron Horse Trail whenever feasible. 11. Require commercial, multiple-family residential, and mixed-use projects in the Downtown Alamo’s commercial core to enhance the streetscape; emphasize pedestrian orientation, safety, and amenity; and provide outdoor civic space for gathering and entertainment. Actions 1. Assist with a community-led process to create design guidelines and standards for new development that complement the County’s Objective Design and Development Standards and aim to further enhance community character and preserve historic landmarks. 3. Proactively address hazards on County-owned land, including removing dead trees, trimming healthy trees, preserving creeks and natural resources, and encouraging planting of native trees. 5. Assist awith community-led processes to develop congestion management plans for problem areas, including areas near schools and along local streets that are used for cut-through traffic. The planning process should eEngage the Sherriff’s Office in the planning process to promote effective traffic enforcement. ALHAMBRA VALLEY, RELIEZ VALLEY, AND BRIONES The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information, to clarify content, or to remove redundancies with countywide goals, policies, and actions. Context Alhambra Valley, Reliez Valley, and Briones are small communities that value their close proximity to open space, rolling hills, wildlife, and seasonal creeks. The three communities are situated in central Contra Costa County and border Briones Regional Park and watershed lands owned by East Bay Municipal Utility District land. Portions of Alhambra Valley and Reliez Valley are in the Spheres of Influence of the cities of Martinez and Pleasant Hill, respectively. Land uses primarily consist of ranches, small-scale agriculture, and low- or very -low- density housing. August 21, 2024 | Page 22 Given the relatively isolated location, residents are concerned about access to emergency services and safety. Timely Rroadway maintenance is essential, as collapses have occurred and there are many unmet road repair needs, which must be addressed given the heightened need for emergency access is crucial in a high-fire-risk area. The communities are proud ofappreciate Fire Station #19 and excited about its recent reopeningthe services it provides. However, rResidents are still concerned, however, about the lack of telecommunication services and communication reliability during an emergency. Major Vulnerabilities Agricultural operations in Briones and Alhambra Valley are vulnerable to damage from agricultural pests and diseases. Planned Land Use Each community has beenis planned to maintain existing low- orand very -low- density residential uses, surrounded by rural agricultural lands, resource conservation, and parks and recreation areas. There are no commercial areas planned in Alhambra Valley, Reliez Valley, or Briones. The Land Use Map envisions thatAs most of the land in these communities is outside the Urban Limit Line, new development will either enhance and diversify existing agricultural uses or serve and accommodate the community’s existing populationthere will not be a substantial increase in density or introduction of urban uses. Guiding Principles 3. The diversity of existing agricultural uses in the region, includingfrom vineyards to ranching, should be supported. Policies 1. Continue adhering to the Briones Hills Agricultural Preservation Area compact, which states that the surrounding jurisdictions (Contra Costa County and the cities of Martinez, Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek, Lafayette, Orinda, Richmond, Pinole, and Hercules) voluntarily agree not to annex any lands within the 64 - square -mile area for the purposes of allowing urban development (see Figure LU-5). This rural area includes large properties owned by the East Bay Municipal Utility District and East Bay Regional Park District, which respectively are designated Resource Conservation and Parks and Recreation on Figure LU-1, General Plan Land Use Map. The remaining properties are used primarily for grazing cattle and are designated Agricultural Lands. 2. Require new development to be consistent with the community’scommunities’ rural character in terms of massing and scale. 3. Prioritize roadway infrastructure maintenance and improvement, especially repair of collapsed roadways.Ensure roads are adequately maintained to provide for emergency access and evacuation. 4. Support and promote the expansion of transportation services, affordable housing, and health resources for the communities’ growing senior population. 5. Support and encourage increasedestablishment of reliable community-wide internet access and telecommunication services. 6. Encourage the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District to Mmaintain Fire Station 19 and adequate fire protection services, particularly to protect from wildfire hazards. August 21, 2024 | Page 23 7. Support efforts to have portions of Alhambra Valley/Briones recognized as an American Viticultural Area. (New Policy) BAY POINT The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information, to clarify content, or to remove redundancies with countywide goals, policies, and actions. Context Originally bordered by a large swath of tule marsh, Bay Point was settled for ranching in the 1800s. It became a lumber manufacturing and distribution port in the early 1900s. The area’s prime location along the Southern Pacific Company’s transcontinental railroad tracks and the deep water of Suisun Bay facilitated shipment of raw materials and products by both land and water, spurring quick economic growth in the community. Today, most of the community consists of single- and multiple-family residential useshomes. While there are some commercial uses in Bay Point, primarily along the major thoroughfares of Willow Pass Road and Bailey Road, local neighborhood-serving amenities are limited. The Bay Point waterfrontshoreline, meanwhile, has mostly reverted to a fairly natural state, retained itsthough a marina and some industrial characteruses remain. In 1993, the community voted to be renamed from “West Pittsburg” to “Bay Point” to solidify its identity as separate from the City of Pittsburg to the east, though the community remains within Pittsburg’s Sphere of Influence. The nearbyPittsburg/Bay Point BART sStation is an important node for the community, as well as a key development opportunity. BART provides many residents with an essential regional transportation link to jobs in Concord, Walnut Creek, and beyond. Major Vulnerabilities The Amtrak line, neighborhoods connected by single access roads, the library, and the fire station are vulnerable to coastal flooding. The Amtrak line, neighborhoods connected by single -access roads, the library, Pittsburg/Bay Point BART stop, and commercial buildings are vulnerable to sea level rise. Impacted Community This law is based on the understanding that some communities have experienced a combination of historic discrimination, negligence neglect, and political and economic disempowerment. While there are multiple Census tracts that make up Bay Point, this chart presents only the most-impacted Census tract in Bay Point the community. Water quality has long been a concern among Bay Point residents. In the last decade, relatively high levels of disinfection byproducts were identified in the drinking water. After strong community advocacy, the local private water company began purchasing treated water, and today the water company is compliant with all water quality standards. However, residents still cite concerns about bad tastes and odor in the water. Planned Land Use Bay Point includes a variety of land uses. Most of the community is planned for continued residential uses at a variety of various densities,. Over 200 acres toward the center of the community are designated for industr y to encourage job-generating uses to locate here. Most of the land along the waterfront north of the railroad tracks is designated for August 21, 2024 | Page 24 protection, though McAvoy Harbor is designated for commercial recreation and medium-density residential development.surrounded primarily by park, conservation, public, and industrial uses. Hillside areas defining the west end of the community will be preserved through Public and Semi-Public, Resource Conservation, Parks and Recreation, and Agricultural Lands designations. The Land Use Map envisions Willow Pass Road and the areas aroundnear the Pittsburg/Bay Point BART Station are envisioned as transitioning into a denser and more vitalvibrant community nodes. This vision will be accomplished by creating three distinct mixed-use areas, each with a slightly different character. The three mixed-use areas share a common set of design principles intended to create a more walkable, pedestrian-friendly environment. Key principles include allowing varied setbacks, encouraging new buildings to be located close to the street frontage, and locating surface parking to the rear of the buildings rather than in the front. The text to the right provides a summary of the three mixed-use areas and the vision for each. Willow Pass Road Corridor The mixed-use area along Willow Pass Road is envisioned as a unified, well -designed corridor, with new mixed-use development and improved services that acts as the heart of the community. Public and private improvements in this area will stimulate reinvestment. The area willshould incorporate a range of residential, neighborhood shoppingcommercial, residentialentertainment, and officeand civic uses, with parking located behind commercial uses along Willow Pass Road. Landscaping, signage, public art, and other amenities will establish a sense of place and enhance the pedestrian experience. Because the corridor is nearly two miles long, development of smaller nodes within the node is encouraged. Bailey Road Urban Center This mixed-use area north of the Highway 4/Bailey Road interchange aims to create a more unified and vibrant urban center offering a mix of uses at a compact and walkable scale. Multiple-family residential development proximate to employment uses and services is highly encourageddesired. This area should develop into a pedestrian -oriented district serving residents who live nearby, with access to quality local and regional transportation. Pittsburg/Bay Point BART Station Area This mixed-use area south of the Highway 4/Bailey Road intersection is planned for dense residential development that takes advantage of the area’s proximity to the BART Station and Ambrose Park. Limited commercial uses are secondary to residential development and should provide goods and services to commuters, neighborhood residents, and visitors to Ambrose Park. The Pittsburg/Bay Point BART Station Area Specific Plan (2002) is stillremains in effect and provides more detailed guidance for this area. Guiding Principles 2. The entire community should enjoy streetscapes and open spaces that are free from abandoned cars, debris, and litter, with ample street lighting to improve visibility and safety when walking at night. 7. Bay Point’s waterfront north of the railroad tracks should be developed with water recreation and commercial uses while ensuring greater resilience to near- and long-term hazards associated with sea-level rise. 8. Park and recreation facilities should be made safe and inviting to residents and families through quality amenities and ongoing maintenance. The ARPD should have the funding it needs to enhance park and recreation services , including improving the community center and Ambrose and Lynbrook Parks and establishing a new community - oriented park, potentially in Shore Acres. August 21, 2024 | Page 25 9. The aAgencies that provide community services should coordinate efforts to maximize effectiveness and reach all those who need their services. Policies 1. Ensure that land use andnew development projects willdoes not create negative impacts such as increased toxic exposure, a net loss of affordable housing, or thepermanent displacement of residents and local legacy businesses that are valued by the community. 2. Coordinate with the Housing Authority of Contra Costa County, affordable housing developers, and other organizations to transition vacant and underutilized land into affordable rental and ownership housing that serves Bay Point’s diverse population, including single people, couples, families, youth, seniors, and people with disabilities . 4. Proactively enforce County codes to sSupport community beautification and safety, curb illegal dumping, improve trash collection, and remove graffiti. Encourage improved community appearance through graffiti removal, improved trash collection litter reduction, street and sidewalk maintenance, abatement of illegal dumping, and code enforcement. 6. Encourage development of neighborhood-oriented shopping and services to be developed, especially within walking distance of housing. 7. Actively seek and incentivize commercial development, including grocery stores, on vacant lots near the BART station while avoiding concentrating all development along Willow Pass Road. 8. Encourage assembly of parcels in medium- orand higher -density residential areas to allow for higher-quality, denser residential development, including adequate infrastructure for drainage and traffic. 9. Minimize the number of streets and driveways intersecting or entering Willow Pass Road by using secondary roads, assembling frontage parcels, using shared access on abutting properties, and/or other approaches. 12.Engage with schools, non-profit organizations, and faith-based organizations to recognize and work with at-risk youth to support their meaningful growth. 13.Support healthy relationships between the community and law enforcement. 15.Encourage existing liquor stores, convenience stores, and ethnic markets to stock fresh produce and other healthy foods. Actions 1. Clean up majorImplement strategies to curb illegal dumping, sitesparticularly at Port Chicago Highway and Driftwood Drive, and along Pullman Avenue and Suisun Avenue and pursue stricter enforcement with higher penalties and improved regulation. 2. Conduct education and outreach to inform residents about proper waste disposal opportunities beyond curbside trash and recycling collection. Promote vehicle donation opportunities for unwanted vehicles. 3. Prepare and implement streetscape plans for Willow Pass Road, Bailey Road, and other major streets that include protected bike lanes, speed bumps, stop signs, cameras, upgraded sidewalks (including widening and closing gaps), street trees, and landscaping to slow traffic and enhance transit corridors. Streetscape plans should also address on - street parking, traffic movements, and transit facilities. If appropriate, rRevise precise alignment plans for consistency withto facilitate the streetscape plans wherever necessary. 4. Install pedestrian-scale lighting throughout the community to enhance safety and deter crime. August 21, 2024 | Page 26 5. Work with BART, Tri-Delta Transit, and County Connection to: a. Improve the coordination of bus and BART arrival and departure times. c. Extend first- and last-mile services with micro-mobility infrastructure for BART commuters. 6. When coordinating with the ARPD, highlight the following goals identified by the community: c. Locate facilities to ensure visibility along public roadways where appropriate. c. Improve the community center and Ambrose and Lynbrook Parks. d. Establish a new community-oriented park, potentially in Shore Acres. d. Provide clear access points to their facilities. g. Install more lighting to improve visibility and safety. 7. Use the County’s outreach platforms to promote available park and recreation services and programs, based on information provided by the ARPD. 9. Work with the community to Ccreate a mural or public art program to provide a positive alternative and deterrent to graffiti. 10.Conduct outreach about the negative effects of old pipes and water fixtures on water quality in older homes. BETHEL ISLAND The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information, to clarify content, or to remove redundancies with countywide goals, policies, and actions. Context The community may support limited job-generating uses, alsobut seeks to retain and enhance local agricultural vibrancy and character. The community is strongly opposed to development of heavy industrial uses but is amenable to a limited amount of light industry. Planned Land Use The majority of Bethel Island is planned to preserve its rural open spaceagricultural character andwhile supporting and enhancinge local tourism businesses and water-oriented recreation. Most of the area is designated for aAgricultural Lands, cCommercial rRecreation, and rResource cConservation uses. The commercial core of Bethel Island is located along Bethel Island Road and supports public, recreation, and residential uses. This core is envisioned to expand east along Gateway Road to allow for more retail uses, increased parking, and community even ts, enhancing community character and vibrancy. The perimeter of the island will continue to host most of the community’s residential neighborhoodsresidences. Guiding Principles 3. To maintain a safe community, public services such as the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District and Sheriff’s Office should be supported and enhanced. Policies 3. Encourage rehabilitation of distressed properties, including by improving aging structures and reducing vegetation overgrowth, both on land and along waterways. August 21, 2024 | Page 27 4. To the extent permitted by State law, limit new residential development to already -approved development and one dwelling unit per legal parcel. 5. Do not approveDeny requests for General Plan Aamendments that would increase residential density unless at least the following are accomplished: b. The lLevee improvement plans are approved by the Bethel Island Municipal Improvement District (BIMID) and the US Army Corps of Engineers. 6. Prohibit levee breaches unless the entire perimeter levee is improved to US Army Corps of Engineers standards. 7. Require that any new internal levees meet US Army Corps of Engineers standards. 8. Require that new construction to be set back from levee centerlines a minimum of 100 feet unless adequate substantiation for reduction of the setback is approved by Reclamation District 799 or BIMID. 9. Require that any new construction that is not protected by certified levees to meets FEMA flood protection standards. 10. Establish Bethel Island Road between Dutch Slough and Gateway Road, and Gateway Road between Bethel Island Road and Piper Road, as the community’s commercial core. The following changes are recommended to Action 2, which would be moved to the Policies section as Policy 10, in response to a comment received via Konveio on January 24, 2024, from Dan Muelrath, Diablo Water District. Action 2Policy 10. Encourage theSupport Diablo Water District’s efforts to examine the feasibility of annexingconsolidate independent water mutuals on Bethel Island into their service area to improve access to a reliable source of water for fire protection services and general consumptionand extend service island-wide. (New Policy moved from Action 2.) The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information, to clarify content, or to remove redundancies with Countywide goals, policies, and actions. 11. Encourage establishment and growth of locally -serving businesses that fulfill the needs of Bethel Island residents. 13. PrioritizeCoordinate with the City of Oakley to implement roadway improvements tothat reduce traffic congestion on Bethel Island and directly connected public roads. Incorporate pedestrian, bicycle, and stormwater infrastructure improvements when feasible to improve safety and facilitate mobility throughout the island and onto the mainland. Actions 2. Encourage the Diablo Water District to examine the feasibility of annexing Bethel Island into their service area to improve access to a reliable source of water for fire protection services and general consumption. (Revise Action 2 and move to be Policy 10.) 3. Work with the California Department of Boating and Waterways to Iimprove signage along waterways to minimize boat wakes and reduce accidents. 4. Work with the community to Exploredetermine the feasibility of establishing a centralized parking area in the commercial core. August 21, 2024 | Page 28 The following new action is recommended in response to a comment received at the Bethel Island MAC meeting. 5. Study the feasibility of providing additional evacuation options, including by boat. BYRON The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Some edits are in response to comments received at the Byron MAC meeting. Context Located near the eastern edge of the county, Byron is an agricultural community that prides itself on its rural roots. The area’s fertile soil supported its initial settlement as a farming center. In 1878, Byron was the site of a new Southern Pacific railroad line that allowed the community to quickly expand. Early Byron attracted visitors from across the nation to the renowned Byron Hot Springs. This resort featured warm mineral pools and luxury accommodations prior to its closure duringjust prior to World War II. In 1994, the County opened Byron Airport, providing opportunities for general aviation and recreational flight operations. Now an established community, rResidents enjoy the area’s respite from busy city life, preferring Byron’s small -town nature, though some have indicated that increased noise is an issue. Businesses in Byron are generally concentrated in the downtown along Camino Diablo, and the Byron Highway, and Main Street. However, business development and retention has been challenging. The County’s Urban Limit Line (ULL) prohibits growthintense development outside of Byron’s core area, preserving this land for farming and open space. Residents identify the surrounding agricultural land as a part of their community, although a lack of trail connections prevents residents from accessing potential recreational benefits. While growth is constrained by the ULL, traffic through the community to nearby cities has continued to grow, impacting local roads and safety. Key roadway projects, like theState Route 239 and the Vasco Road- Byron Highway Connector project, may improve connections and accommodate increased traffic throughout the area. Community members in Byron are also concerned about housing affordability and homelessness. The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information, to clarify content, or to remove redundancies with countywide goals, policies, and actions. Major Vulnerabilities The Byron Airport is vulnerable to coastal flooding, extreme heat, flooding, and severe storms. The Byron Highway is vulnerable to coastal flooding, flooding, extreme heat, and severe storms. Planned Land Use Land use designations for Byron are shown on Figure LU-1, General Plan Land Use Map, and are defined in the Land Use Element. Downtown Byron, which encompasses the triangle-shaped area bounded by Byron Highway, Camino Diablo, and Holway Drive, is designated for MixedUse, allowing business uses that both manufacture and sell goods and services, particularly those that exemplify the historic and agricultural roots of the community. Residential uses will also continue in parts of this downtown area. Most of Main Street is designated Mixed-Use Low Density to promote development of vacant and underutilized lots, ideally with residences above street-level businesses planned primarily for commercial uses that support redevelopment, provide a wide array of services for that support residents, and boost local tourism. Commercial and other light industrial uses are allowed atbetween Byron Highway’s major intersections with Holway Drive and Camino Diablo. OutsideAround the downtown area and commercial core, but within the Urban Limit Line (ULL), the Land Use Map indicates continued residential uses will continue at a variety of varying densities, as well asas along with public and airport-related uses around the Byron Airport to the south. August 21, 2024 | Page 29 Beyond the ULL, the map indicates continuation of the agricultural, open space, recreation, and public uses that already existwill continue, along with potential development of renewable energy facilities. Guiding Principles 6. Regional travel should be improved through projects like the Vasco Road- Byron Highway Connector Road project. Policies 1. Encourage businesscommercial development that supports a full range of services for residents and is tailored to Byron’s small-town character, ideally celebrating the historic and agricultural roots of the community. 3. Attract small businesses and facilitateSupport efforts to organize community events downtown. 4. Maintain andeffective code enforcement and regulationsimplement strategies to curb illegal dumping and littering. 6. Support agriculture, including animal keeping and raising, as an important part of Byron’s history and character. 7. Encourage CCTA to prioritize the completion of the Vasco Road- Byron Highway Connector Road project. 8. Address traffic conflicts and safety concerns around U-Pick areas, including along Marsh Creek Road, Vasco Road, and Walnut Boulevard, with consideration given to agricultural equipment on roads. 9. Ensure that new development projects does not conflict with potential alignments for the Vasco Road- Byron Highway Connector Road/and State Route 239 projects, as shown in Figure TR-3, Roadway Classifications, in the Transportation Element. Work with project applicants avoid placing permanent buildings and structures within the potential alignments. 10. Support community-led efforts to establish a community services district to provide basic services to Byron. Actions 2. Adopt zoning regulations that provides more flexibility for downtown development, including relaxing parking requirements when street parking is available and expanding allowed uses to include light manufacturing for businesses that both manufacture and sell products on-site. 3. Install sidewalks and bikeways with street trees, signage, and crosswalks that connect downtown Byron to Byron Park and Saint Anne Church. 4. Install and Mmaintain street trees in downtown Byron to support walkability and provide a more vibrant downtownatmosphere. 5. Study the feasibility and need for traffic calming along Byron’s major roadways. 6. Upon completion of the Vasco Road-Byron Highway Connector Road, designate a truck route to separate truck traffic from other modes of transportation, including around U-Pick agricultural areas, such as along Marsh Creek Road, Vasco Road, and Walnut Boulevard. 7. Work with local and regional stakeholders, such as East Bay Regional Park District, to develop a trails plan that provides local and regional trail connections for Byron, including trails that connect to local destinations like Byron Hot Springs and trails that provide regional connections to recreational and commute destinations. As par t of the planning process, consider potential recreational re-use along railroad rights-of-way as well as strategies to effectively communicate trail information to the public. (3-76) August 21, 2024 | Page 30 CANYON The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information, to clarify content, or to remove redundancies with countywide goals, policies, and actions. Context At the time California became a Sstate, there were more registered voters in Canyon than in other East Bay precincts. In the 1950s, East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) acquired much of the land for watershed protection and tore down many homes. Major Vulnerabilities Children and seniors are vulnerable to extreme heat, human health hazards, and wildfire. Policies 4. Support establishment of reliable community-wide internet access and telecommunication services. Actions The following new action is recommended in response to a comment received at an open house engagement event. 10. Work with the Central Contra Costa Solid Waste Authority (RecycleSmart) to incorporate Canyon into its service area. CLYDE The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information, to clarify content, or to remove redundancies with countywide goals, policies, and actions. Context Clyde is located 3 miles from downtown Concord on the east side of the Port Chicago Highway, north of Highway 4. The community is entirely within the County’s Urban Limit Line and the City of Concord’s Sphere of Influence. andClyde is also included in the Concord General Plan, although Concord has no plans tofor annexation Clyde at this time. Clyde’s future was imperiled by the 1944 Port Chicago explosion and subsequent decline of the Port Chicago community. Following the closure of the shipyards, Clyde became a residential enclave surrounded by industrial and military uses. While these uses isolated Clyde from Concord and Bay Point, they also contributed to its strong sense of identity. The community added about 70 homes during the 1990s in the Clyde Commons subdivision, but otherwise has remained stablestatic. There are a few small parks, a community center, and roughly 370 homes. County Service Area M-16 maintains Clyde’s parks, recreation areas, and landscaping. Impacted Community This law is based on the understanding that some communities have experienced a combination of historic discrimination, negligence neglect, and political and economic disempowerment. Major industrial facilities near Clyde include the Martinez Refinery CompanyMarathon Refinery, the Contra Costa Hazardous Materials disposal facility, and the Military Ocean Terminal – Concord (MOTCO). Residents have raised August 21, 2024 | Page 31 concerns about foul odors coming from the refinery along with poor air quality caused by heavy industrial land uses. Also among the top concerns for residents are the lack of affordable housing in the area and the resulting increase in homelessness, lack of access to nearby open space, and poor drainage near Port Chicago, resulting in standing water and associated health risks, including mosquitos. Planned Land Use This community is primarily residential, with a handful of light industrial parcels at its southern edge. Most of the community is planned for continued residential use at a density consistent with existing development. This community is primarily residential, with a handful of light industrial parcels at its southern edge. Heavy industrial lands directly west of Clyde are buffered through an open space designation along the west side of Port Chicago Highway.A greenway and Port Chicago Highway separate Clyde from light industrial lands immediately to the west. A wide area designated for resource conservation provides additional buffer from heavy industrial uses farther west; Tthis buffer zone is intended to remain undeveloped. Directly east of Clyde are the Contra Costa Canal and large agricultural parcels owned by the United States government and private landowners. These lands, characterized by primarily by undeveloped rolling hills, are planned to remain in public and agricultural use. Guiding Principles 4. Clyde residents should be safe and healthy while living adjacent to both heavy industry and MOTCO. Risks from industrial or military accidents and exposure to air pollutants and odors should be monitored and mitigated. Policies 2. Expand access to local and regional parks and recreational facilities, such as the Delta de Anza Regional Trail and future Concord HillsThurgood Marshall Regional Park. Actions 1. Establish a comprehensive, long-term strategy that coordinates efforts from allvarious regulatory agencies to mitigate the impacts of surrounding uses on the community, both acute and long -term. 3. Coordinate with East Bay Regional Park District and Contra Costa Water District to enhance Clyde’s bicycle and pedestrian connections to local and regional trails and open spaces. This shouldmay include a bikeway along Port Chicago Highway connecting to the countywide bicycle network or a bicycle and pedestrian path along the Contra Costa Canal that provides a future connection to Thurgood Marshall Regional Park. 4. Work with the Public Works Department to improve maintenance of County parks in the vicinity of Clyde. 5. Encourage tree planting, and beautification projects, and a bicycle and pedestrian path along the Contra Costa Canal, including a future connection to Concord Hills Regional Park. CONTRA COSTA CENTRE The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information, to clarify content, or to remove redundancies with countywide goals, policies, and actions. Context Situated between Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek, and Concord, and divided among the Spheres of Influence of each, Contra Costa Centre is a bustling transit center adjacent to the Pleasant Hill/Contra Costa Centre BART station. The community has a diverse mix of land uses ranging from low-density single-family homes to very high-density multi- family useshomes and BART-oriented mixed- use. The community’s vision is to be a cutting edge, mixed-use August 21, 2024 | Page 32 neighborhood that serves all types of households and provides convenient services, safe outdoor public spaces, and multiple transportation choices. In particular, residents support more transit-oriented infill development that is concentrated and sustainable, addressing the growing need for regional transit. The community enjoys living within walking distance of restaurants and outdoor gathering spaces orand parks, and would like its walkable, mixed-use character to be enhanced. The Iron Horse Trail runs north-south through Contra Costa Centre and provides opportunities for high-quality outdoor recreation. Residents use this trail for a wide variety of trips ranging from active commutes to family outings. Connecting parks, schools, and transit with a network of trails is a high priority for Contra Costa Centre residents. In addition, tTraffic safety is also a primary concern. Residents support changing the streetscape to slow traffic while enhancing transportation options. Planned Land Use Land use designations for Contra Costa Centre are shown on Figure LU -1, General Plan Land Use Map, and are defined in the Land Use Element. Contra Costa Centre aims to be a model for mixed-use, transit-oriented neighborhoods, while maintaining and enhancing its identity as a safe, family -friendly, walkable community. AnThe new and expanded mMixed-uUse High Density areadesignation will attractprovides more opportunities for innovative infill development and further improves connectivity to BART, and nearby trails, and the community’s multiple uses. Beyond the mixed-use area, the map indicates continuation of rResidential uses will continue at a variety ofvarying densities beyond the mixed-use area, along with new transit-oriented infill development. Guiding Principles 1. Residents of Contra Costa Centre enjoy convenient access to public transit through the BART sStation and numerous bus linesroutes. This access to public transit provides an easy alternative to automobile travel and access to the rest of the Bay Area from within their own neighborhood. Policies 1. Support innovative mixed-use projects. 2. Support density increases along major thoroughfares. 3. Expand and improve bicycle network connectivity to increase safety and access to public transit and minimize collisions with automobiles. 4. Prioritize local-serving retail and community-focused land uses, such as restaurants and farmers’ markets. 5. Require new development to provide walkable, pedestrian-scale streetscapes. Policy 6Action 2. FacilitateEncourage installation of facilities that support sustainability,le infrastructure such as zero- emission vehicle charging and fueling infrastructure, bike repair stations, and other green amenities as they become available. (Revise Action 2 as shown and move to be Policy 6.) 8. Promote a station area appearance which willthat projects a positive image and havehas high regional and local identity. Actions 1. ImproveEvaluate traffic signal operations at the intersection of Las Juntas Road and Oak Road and correct any identified deficiencies. August 21, 2024 | Page 33 2. Facilitate installation of sustainable infrastructure such as zero-emission vehicle charging and fueling infrastructure, bike repair stations, and other green amenities as they become available. (Revise Action 2 and move to be Policy 6.) 2. Update the Pleasant Hill BART/Contra Costa Centre Specific Plan and consider expanding the Specific Plan area to include all land within one-half mile of the BART property. (New Action) CROCKETT The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information, to clarify content, or to remove redundancies with countywide goals, policies, and actions. Context Crockett is located on the south side of the Carquinez Bridge, at the mouth of the Carquinez Strait just east of San Pablo Bay. The town has a colorful history and eclectic character. It is best known as the home of the C&H Sugar rRefinery, which has been in operation since 1906. Crockett was a “company town” during the refinery’s boom years in the early and mid-1900s. Today, the town is home to about 3,000 residents. Its picturesque waterfront setting and relative affordability have attracted a large population of artists. Crockett is home to two museums, two regional parks, a middle school and high school, and a historic downtown business district along Pomona Street and 2nd Avenue. In hillside residential neighborhoods, quaint homes on small lots boast sweeping views of the strait. In addition to the C&H Sugar refinery, tThe community is also close to and affected by heavy industrial uses west of Interstate 80, including the Phillips 66 Refinery and NuStar Energy storage facility. Major Vulnerabilities People and facilities throughout Crockett face significant risks of wildfire, including threats of injury, property loss, and high air pollution from smoke. Households in poverty are among the most vulnerable to seismic hazards. Impacted Community This law is based on the understanding that some communities have experienced a combination of historic discrimination, negligence neglect, and political and economic disempowerment. While there are multiple Census tracts that make up Crockett, this chart presents only the most-impacted Census tract in Crockett the community. Some of the factors that contribute to Crockett’s identification as an Impacted Community relate to its industrial roots – both past and present. The Selby Smelting and Lead Company, operated as a metal smelting and refining plant into the 1970s, polluted land and accompanying groundwater north of the bridge with slag that contains arsenic, lead, cadmium, and other compounds. Remedial efforts in previous decades protected residents from direct site exposure but did not fully prevent slag from leaching into theSan Pablo bBay. Full remediation plans, overseen by the California Department of Toxic Substances Control, are underway to protect groundwater, preserve aquatic habitats, and prevent human exposure to these toxic substances. Near the Selby site, NuStar Energy leases land previously owned by the Wickland Oil Company, where petroleum products were released at the site through the 1980s. The site currently stores petroleum products from nearby refineries before transfer to gas stations and other consumers. Fires at the storage facility in 2019 required Crockett residents to “shelter in place” and put the community at risk of evacuation and toxic airborne particulates. August 21, 2024 | Page 34 Planned Land Use Land use designations for Crockett are shown on Figure LU-1, General Plan Land Use Map, and are defined in the Land Use Element. The heart of Crockett is the downtown business district along and north of Pomona Street., from 1st Avenue toThis area wraps around John Swett High School, encompassing the library to the north, and connectsing to a secondary business district extending east along Loring Avenue facing the waterfront. These areas are intended fordesignated mMixed-uUse Community-Specific Densityprojects to facilitate the creation of a town center, retain the integrity of existing development, and in recognitionze of the historic mix of ground floor commercial uses, upper story apartments, and small multiple-family residential, office, and civic buildings. Residential neighborhoods are planned for a densitiesy ranginge from 53 to 360 units per net acre, which is consistent with the existing development pattern. with higher dDensity uses locatedis highest adjacent to the Mmixed-Uuse designationareas to support the business districtand decreases as distance from downtown and elevation increase. New development is planned to continue the existingfollow this development pattern that mixes residential and open space uses. Areas to the west around the base of the Carquinez Bridge are planned fordesignated lLight iIndustr yial and cCommercial rRecreation usesin recognition of existing uses and to revitalize the marina area and improve access to the waterfront. Guiding Principles 7. Public facilities and amenities in Crockett, including regional parkland, communitylocal parks and open spaces, schools, and the Crockett Community Center, should be preserved and enhanced. Open spaces should be inviting, clear of trash and debris, support community health and wellness, and serve as classrooms for outdoor education. Policies 1. In mixed-use areas, preserve adequate square footage of commercial uses to meet the daily needs of the community. Ssupport development of a thriving and diverse local economy with thriving small and local- servingneighborhood-scale businesses to serve the daily needs of the community while promoting new residential development. 2. MaintainRespect Crockett’s historic context and maintain its unique character while removing barriers to economic vitality, making the housing stock more resilient and sustainable, and creating new and diverse housing opportunities. 3. Coordinate with the C&H Sugar rRefinery to ensure that plans for future use of its properties are consistent with the community’s vision for long-term growth. 4. EncourageSupport improved community appearancebeautification and safety through graffiti removal, litter reduction, street and sidewalk maintenance, abatement of illegal dumping, and effective code enforcement. 7. Consider height and density increases downtown, provided historic context is respected. 8. Exempt adaptive reuse or re -tenanting of older downtown buildings from compliance with off-street parking requirements when appropriate.Acknowledge that Crockett’s historic development pattern may preclude compliance with various zoning regulations, such as setback and off-street parking requirements, and enforce such regulations accordingly. 9. Support efforts to Eelevate Crockett’s role in the Bay Area as a regional hub for arts and culture, and strongly encourage galleries, artists housing, performance space, special events, and other activities that support the arts as an important part of local identity. 10. Generally preserveMaintain public views of Carquinez Strait, San FranciscoPablo Bay, and other defining natural elements of the local landscape to the greatest extent possible. Encourage new construction that enriches scenic quality of the community. August 21, 2024 | Page 35 12.Support the long-term preservation of hillsides, ridgelines, and canyons around Crockett, which are essential to the community’s scenic beauty and character and serve as green infrastructure that supports stormwater management, water quality, and climate change strategies. Prohibit extreme topographic modification, such as filling in canyons and removing hilltops. 13. Encourage clustering and planned unit development on hillsides as a means of preserving open space . 14. WorkPartner with East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) and other large landowners to improve non-motorized trails in the Crockett area, including a potential bike lanestrail to Rodeo and Port Costa, and provide better access for hikers from Crockett to the Bull Valley Staging Area and Carquinez Strait Regional Shoreline Park. Actions 1. Assist a community-led process to develop design guidelines for Crockett that complement the County’s Objective Design and Development Standards and are tailored to the unique setting, historic fabric, lot patterns, design character, and mix of uses in the community. 2. Update the Historic Resources Inventory to add structures that may not have been considered historic at the time of the last inventoryinclude Crockett’s historically significant buildings and sites. Include information on nearby legacy communities such as Selby and Tormey. 3. Work with the community to Ddevelop an economic development strategy aimed at attracting retail, restaurants, grocers, services, and locally- owned and independent businesses. 4. Improve waterfront access, including access to the shoreline from Crockett and lateral access along the shoreline itself. Work with the State Lands Commission, EBRPD, and other agenciesUnion Pacific Railroad to improve waterfront access, including lateral access along the shoreline itself, provide new amenities along the shoreline, improve pedestrian and bicycle crossings of the railroad, and encourage water-oriented business and commercial activities that enhance Crockett’s identity as a waterfront community. 5. Work with the community to Ddevelop a communitywide parking management plan that addresses downtown parking and residential street parking. 6. Close sidewalk gaps and improve pedestrian mobility throughout downtown and around schools. 7. Maintain truck routes to limit industrial traffic on Crockett streets and enable safer, more efficient road operations. 8. Work with the West Contra Costa Transit Authority, Caltrans, and Amtrak to improve transit connections between Crockett and other communities, potentially including a rail stop on the Amtrak/Capitol Corridor. In addition, encourage transit agencies to improve transit signage and waiting areas. 9. Study the feasibility of providing bicycle lanes between Crockett and Rodeo. DIABLO The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information. Context In 20222024, the median average home price in Diablo was $3.18 $2.65 million, making it among the 41st most expensive ZIP codes in the United States and the most expensive in the East Bay. August 21, 2024 | Page 36 The following changes are recommended in response to a comment letter received on November 21, 2023, comments from the Diablo Historic Preservation Committee via Diablo Community Services District. Context Diablo began as the Oakwood Park Stock Farm, a ranch owned by California’s “Big Four” (i.e., influential menLeland Stanford, Charles Crocker, Mark Hopkins, and Collis P. Huntington, with a fifth partner, David Colton, who built the Central Pacific Railroad) in the late 1800s. Robert Noble Burgess purchased the property in 1912 from David Colton and transformed it into a swank summer resortthe Farm into a family-oriented, parklike community of summer homes. The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information, to clarify content, or to remove redundancies with countywide goals, policies, and actions. Planned Land Use Diablo is planned to preserve and continue its rural character andwith continued residential use at a densitiesy consistent with existing development. The large area designated Commercial Recreation supports continued operation of the Diablo Country Club, while the area designated Public and Semi-Public supports the Athenian School. The County’s Urban Limit Line, along with Agricultural Lands, Parks and Recreation, and Resource Conservation land use designations protect lands under the County’s jurisdiction on the north and east sides of the community. Policies 2. Coordinate with the community to Iincrease opportunities for community input into planning processes and projects, especially related to historic designations and regulations. Actions 1. Work with the Town of Danville to Aaddress issues with traffic and speeding along Diablo Road. 2. Coordinate with local agencies to establish a plan for responding to natural disasters, such asespecially wildfires and earthquakes, that may includeing a shelter -in -place plan for the community. DISCOVERY BAY The following recommendation is made in response to a comment received at the Discovery Bay MAC meeting. Throughout Profile Change “canals” to “bays” throughout profile. The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Context Discovery Bay is a relatively new community in eastern Contra Costa County, created as a planned community in 1964 on agricultural land previously known as the “Byron Tract.” The original development was envisioned as a recreational community, with a network of excavated canals and residential lots connected to Delta waterways. In the 1990s the County approved “Discovery Bay West,” a 2,000-home project built around a new elementary school and four artificial lakes. Newer subdivisions have further expanded the community.Neighborhood-serving amenities also were planned and created. August 21, 2024 | Page 37 The following changes are recommended in response to a comment letter received on November 27, 2023, from the Discovery Bay Community Services District. Context Today, Discovery Bay has grown into a full-service town with a community services district (CSD) that coordinates water, sewer, and recreation services. The CSD also fulfills the role of a municipal advisory council and advises the County on planning, infrastructure, public safety, and other policy matters. Major Vulnerabilities The Discovery Bay Fire Station and East Contra Costa Fire Protection District buildings are vulnerable to coastal flooding. The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information, to clarify content, or to remove redundancies with countywide goals, policies, and actions. Major Vulnerabilities The Discovery Bay Elementary School, All God’s Children Christian School, and Timber Point Elementary School are vulnerable to coastal flooding either now or under future sea level rise scenarios. Planned Land Use Land use designations for Discovery Bay are shown on Figure LU-1, General Plan Land Use Map, and are defined in the Land Use Element. Discovery Bay has been planned to maintain the existing pattern of residential land uses along the canalsbays, with pockets of commercial and office uses along Discovery Bay Boulevard and Highway 4. While the former Cecchini property is designated Agricultural Lands, it is inside the County’s Urban Limit Line (ULL) and may be redesignated to allow urban uses in the future. The area designated Mixed-Use Community-Specific Density at Discovery Bay Boulevard above Sand Point Road/Willow Lake Road is intended to facilitate the creation of a town center and encourage the development of a variety of uses that would complement and catalyze further utilization of energize existing commercial and office areas. Policies 1. In mixed-use areas, attract and retain commercial uses to serve the daily needs of the community. Ssupport the development and retention of new commercial uses and local-serving businesses to meet the daily needs of the community while promoting new residential development. 2. Coordinate with East Bay Regional Park District to Eenhance access and connections to regional parks and open space. 3. Promote and eEncourage the development of job-generating uses. 4. Require development of the southern portion of the former Cecchini Ranch property to include a fire station, sports fields, and substantial acreage set aside as light industrial/flex space to accommodate job-generating uses. 5. Support establishmentdevelopment of a senior housing project in the vicinity of Point of Timber Road. Actions 3. Add a sports field complex, possibly on the east side of Discovery Bay. August 21, 2024 | Page 38 The following changes are recommended in response to a comment received at the Discovery Bay MAC meeting. 4. Work with the Town of Discovery Bay CSD to determine the feasibility of Provideproviding bathrooms and better maintenance at Slifer Park and consider transitioning ownership to the Community Services District. The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Actions 5. Move the approximately 520.7-acre northern portion of the former Cecchini Ranch, which is under an agricultural conservation easement, outside of the Urban Limit LineULL. EAST RICHMOND HEIGHTS The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information, to clarify content, or to remove redundancies with countywide goals, policies, and actions. Context Situated in the Berkeley Hills north ofnear El Cerrito and Richmond, and within the Spheres of Influence of both in the Berkeley Hills, East Richmond Heights is a primarily residential community of about 3,600 residents. Adjacent open space in Wildcat Canyon provides respite and outdoor recreation for residents. Given East Richmond Heights’ location, the community has panoramic views of San Francisco Bay, Mount Tamalpais, and beyond. Residents cite access to open space and views as important community assets that should be preserved for generations to come. East Richmond Heights is also home to two schools, Crestmont School and Mira Vista Elementary School, which contribute to the area’s family-oriented character. Interstate 80, located about a ½ mile to the west, and the El Cerrito Del Norte BART Station provides regional transportation access, and Arlington Boulevard serves as the major north- south thoroughfare. Despite the small-town community feel, residents are concerned about safety and formed the East Richmond Heights Neighborhood Watch team to prevent crime, enhance emergency preparedness, and improve neighborhood communication. In addition, rResidents would like more street lighting and new and expanded community facilities and events. Residents are also concerned about fire hazards from vegetation in Wildcat Canyon Regional Park and throughout the neighborhood, particularly from dead, standing trees. The community would like to enhance fire protection services and evacuation preparedness to ensure resident safety in the event of a natural disaster Major Vulnerabilities Public safety and emergency medical response are vulnerable to floodingearthquakes, landslides, severe storms, and wildfire. Change the title of the “Landslides” figure to “Seismic Hazards.” Planned Land Use The community has two existing small commercial pockets, whichthat are intended to support neighborhood-serving businesses. The areaAdams Middle School site, designated Mixed-Use Low Density, is envisioned to attract neighborhood-serving commercial and services uses, affordable housing, and alternative dwelling types, while supporting and encouraging more community events August 21, 2024 | Page 39 Policies 1. Prioritize mitigation of wildfire and earthquake exposure Wwhen reviewing new development proposals, consider the need for mitigation of wildfire and earthquake exposure as appropriate. 3. When reviewing new development proposals, ensure views of scenic natural features (e.g., San Francisco Bay, distant mountains) and the developed environment (e.g., bridges, San Francisco skyline) are substantially preserved. 4. Ensure thatCondition new constructiondevelopment projects and home renovation activitiesto minimize impacts on neighbors and local roads, which may be compounded by existing small lots and narrow, winding roadways. 6. Promote local-serving commercial establishmentsuses to encourage localsmall business growth, create retail shopping near residents, and provide opportunities for residents to conduct business within their own community. 7. Improve local drainage infrastructure and encourage improvements to local wastewater infrastructure. 8. RecognizeEmphasize affordable housing as a community asset and encourage alternative dwelling types such as accessory dwellings and co-housing. 9. Consider the impacts of each project, individually and cumulatively, on emergency access and response to the neighborhood and immediate project area. New projects should not negatively impact access or response by emergency service providers. (New Policy) 10. Determine on a project-by-project basis whether a traffic impact analysis is warranted, considering factors beyond peak-hour trip generation, such as individual and cumulative impacts on pedestrian safety and neighborhood -scale evacuation plans. (New Policy) 11. For new developments, encourage building scale, massing, architectural style, and materials to provide harmonious scale transitions and blend with the surrounding existing residential neighborhood. (New Policy) 12. Encourage a mix of unit types and densities in new housing projects to diversify the housing stock and better serve residents of all ages, incomes, and abilities. To achieve the required density, encourage development of greater numbers of smaller-scaled buildings that are harmonious with surrounding areas and contain fewer units per building, instead of large -scale buildings containing higher numbers of units. (New Policy) 13. Provide pedestrian-friendly streetscape improvements with large-canopied street trees, open spaces, ground cover, and flowering plants where opportunities exist. (New Policy) 14. Encourage new development on large parcels, such as the Adams Middle School site, to closely follow the natural slope of the site with grading and building forms and heights. (New Policy) 15. Encourage seamless integration of new development on large parcels into the surrounding street pattern and evaluate opportunities to reestablish historic street patterns. For example, Loring Avenue and Rosalind Avenue, which are shown as through streets on historic Assessor’s maps, were interrupted by consolidation of the Adams Middle School site and may be appropriate for extension. (New Policy) Actions 1. Coordinate with public safety and health agenciesWork with East Bay Municipal Utility District and Contra Costa County Fire Protection District to installdetermine whether additional fire hydrants are necessary within the community. August 21, 2024 | Page 40 2. Improve Upgrade pedestrian safety and roadway infrastructure by performing routine pavement management and maintenance, installing continuous street lighting, illuminating pedestrian crossings, adding ADA compliant amenities, and delineating on-street parking spaces along major roadsArlington Boulevard and in the North Arlington neighborhood, with emphasis on improving pedestrian safety. 3. ExploreStudy the possibilityfeasibility of constructing a community library. 4. Conduct community workshop(s) to explore options for Assist a community-led process to coordinate with the Richmond Unified School District on a plan for the future development at the of Adams Middle School site. Concepts and direction developed at the workshop(s) would provide community preferences and guidance to the County, local officials, property owner, prospective developer, and design team. The site should be a model for sustainable, green development that meets the housing (including workforce housing), retail, recreational, and service needs of the community while mitigating impacts to existing neighborhoods the surrounding area. Such workshops should also be conducted for projects requiring General Plan amendments or rezonings in East Richmond Heights.. 5. Should the Mira Vista Elementary School property ever be redeveloped with a non-public use, rRedesignate the western, downslope portion of the Mira Vista Elementary School property, between Zinn Street and SierraHazel Avenue, to Parks and Recreation should it ever be redeveloped with a non-public use. EL SOBRANTE The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information, to clarify content, or to remove redundancies with Countywide goals, policies, and actions. Important natural features such as San Pablo Ridge, Sobrante Ridge, San Pablo Creek, open hillsides, and oak woodlands provide visual beauty, plant and animal habitat, and opportunities for recreation. El Sobrante is oriented along severalthree major thoroughfares. San Pablo Dam Road, the backbone of the community, extends from Interstate 80 east and south toward San Pablo Reservoir and Orinda and is home to many of El Sobrante’s businesses and commercial uses. Appian Way is a commercial and residential corridor that extends north/northeast from San Pablo Dam Road to Interstate 80 in Pinole, includingpassing through the “triangle” area aroundat the intersection of Appian Way andwith Valley View Road. Valley View Road is a residential corridor that extends southeast from the “triangle” to San Pablo Dam Road, passing De Anza High School. Most of the community is accessed via these three roads.Important natural features such as San Pablo Creek, open hillsides, and oak woodlands provide visual beauty, plant and animal habitat, and opportunities for recreation and green infrastructure. Several plans have been developed for El Sobrante in the past two decadesover the years and remain generally applicable today, including a 2001 Transportation and Land Use Plan for the downtown business district (along San Pablo Dam Road and Appian Way) and P-1 Zoning and Design Guidelines adopted in 2013. Major Vulnerabilities The community is vulnerable to dam-related flooding from theif San Pablo Dam, if the dam were to be harmedcompromised by landslides or seismic hazards. However, San Pablo Dam has recently beenwas upgraded in 2010 to reduce the risk of dam failure, decreasing the potential for dam-related flooding. Planned Land Use Areas along San Pablo Dam Road and Appian Way that serve as downtown El Sobrante are designated Mixed -Use Low Density and Mixed-Use Community-Specific Density, recognizing the existing mix of multiple-family residential and commercial properties, as well as the desire for new projects that combine these uses, either vertically or horizontally. As noted in the following section, zoning regulations provide more p rescriptive design standards for the August 21, 2024 | Page 41 downtown areas. The Land Use Map alsoPublic and Semi-Public designation identifies community assets with a designation for public uses, including Juan Crespi Middle School, Harbour Way Elementary School, De Anza High School, and the El Sobrante Library, as well as utilities such as an East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) water filtration plant. Downtown El Sobrante Planned Land Uses The Downtown El Sobrante P-1 Zoning and Design Guidelines should be consulted for more specific direction and is considered the governing document forrelated to long-range planning decisions in this area. Mixed-use development is strongly encouraged, although all three districts allow projects that are entirely commercial or residential. Interesting and innovative architecture is encouraged throughout each mixed-use area, but it should be harmonious in scale so that the each area is perceived and functions as a cohesive district. San Pablo Dam Road Mixed- Use Area The third mixed-use area in downtown El Sobrante applies to San Pablo Dam Road between El Portal and Appian Way. This is the core of the downtown area. The intent is to create a more unified and vibrant district by creating a town square, improving San Pablo Dam Road, and encouraging new multiple-family residential, offices, retail, and mixed-use projects. The town square is envisioned on the Mechanics Bank property on the south side of the block between Hillcrest Avenue and Pitt Way. Consolidation of existing small parcels is encouraged to create more viable development sites. A 50-foot height limit applies to parcels within this zone, provided that tThe mass, height, and shape of buildings should preserve views and arebe compatible with community character. The vision for this area also includes improvements to San Pablo Dam Road. Potential improvements to San Pablo Dam Road include new bike lanes or a (possibly separated) bike lane, wider sidewalks, more off-street parking, new pedestrian crossings, and more attractive and coordinated signage. Appian Way Mixed -Use Area The Appian Way Mixed-Use Area is intended to facilitate the development of the Appian Way corridor as a unified, well-designed, walkable neighborhood, including new mixed-use development and improved services, shopping, offices, and restaurants. Neighborhood-scale commercial uses are allowed on all parcels. Residential-only projects and mixed residential-commercial projects are permitted but not required, and residential uses may be integrated into existing commercial developments. A 27- foot height limit applies, with an 8-foot height bonus for mixed-use projects or projects eligible for a density bonus (subject to specific findings set fo rth in the P-1 Zoning Plan). Triangle Mixed -Use Area The El Sobrante “tTriangle” is formed by the intersection of Valley View Road, Appian Way, and Sobrante Avenue. Like the Appian Way Mixed-Use Area, this area is also envisioned as a distinct neighborhood retail district with opportunities for mixed-use infill projects. The aAllowable uses are similar to those in the Appian Way area. Projects that incorporate housing as part of a mMixed-use projects are preferredencouraged, provided that safe walking and recreational opportunities can be made available., though Pprojects that are entirely commercial are permitted on all parcels, subject to P-1 standards and use limitations. The triangle area is subject to the same density and floor area ratio standards as the Appian Way Mixed-Use Area, with a 27-foot height limit and the potential for an 8-foot height bonus for mixed-use projects. The same building design, streetscape, and parking guidelines that apply in the Appian Way area apply in the Triangle area. The triangle block itself is designated for general commercial uses and is not considered an appropriate location for housing. The Triangle differs from the Appian Way area in that it is far more compact and offers an opportunity to create a walkable activity node that anchors the northern end of the community. August 21, 2024 | Page 42 Note: In the “Mixed-Use Areas” map on page 4, staff recommends that the legend order be revised, first showing the San Pablo Dam Road Mixed-Use Area, followed by the Appian Way Mixed-Use Area, and then the Triangle Mixed-Use Area. Guiding Principles 1. El Sobrante should remain independent and eclectic, with common sense land use regulations that respond to the community’s varied development and building patterns. 7. Because the cities of Richmond and Pinole surround El Sobrante on three sides, coordination with the City of Richmond and City of Pinole is essential, and the County should work proactively to address the effects of decisions by Richmond’s and Pinole's decisions on the quality of life in El Sobrante. 17. Local businesses should act as gathering places for residents and contribute to El Sobrante's sense of community and cultural diversity. Policies 1. In mixed-use areas, preserve adequate square footagesupport development and retention of commercial uses and local-serving businesses in mixed-use areas to meet the daily needs of the community. Support the retention of active commercial uses and local-serving businesses while promoting new residential development. 2. Continue to improvinge downtown El Sobrante to create a stronger sense of this area as a town center and destination for residents, using the Downtown El Sobrante Planned Unit Development (P-1) Zoning and Design Guidelines to guide land use and development decisions in this area. 3. Encourage and prioritizedevelopment of small and locally -owned businesses, includingespecially markets offering healthier food choices. Local businesses should provide gathering places for residents and contribute to El Sobrante's sense of community and cultural diversity. (3-170) 5. Consider the effects of new development on aging infrastructure and, where appropriate, require infrastructure improvements as a condition of approval. 7. Increase neighborhoodlocal park acreage, including requiringpocket parks within new development, and preserveing open space along San Pablo Creek, and encouraging the Public Works Department to acquire land using development fees and other sources. Funding for ongoing maintenance should be identified when parks are created . (3- 175) 8. Encourage new commercial and mixed-use projects to Iincorporate safe, well-maintained open spaces andareas or gathering places in new commercial and mixed-use development projects where feasible. In addition, New Policy 9 (split from Policy 8). Encourage multiple-family residential development shouldprojects to provide on- site recreational facilities for occupantsresidents. and contribute toward the development of parks and recreational facilities that serve the community at large. (New Policy) 9. Partner with East Bay Regional Park District to Mmaintain, and where feasible improve, access to regional open spaces and parks on the perimeter of El Sobrante, including new trails and existing fire trails with the potential for recreational use. August 21, 2024 | Page 43 10. Partner with community organizations to Cconserve and restore portions of San Pablo Creek as a community open space, natural resource, and visual amenity,. In addition, and conserve the natural elements of other local creeks, such as Appian Creek and Wilkie Creek. 11. Encourage the City of Richmond to preserve the visual character and natural qualities of San Pablo Ridge, the hillside area that defines the southern and western edge of El Sobrante, by supporting land use decisions that maintain trail access to Wildcat Canyon Park and preserveprotect areas above the 400-foot elevation contour as open space and maintain trail access to Wildcat Canyon Regional Park. 13. ProhibitDeny applications for entitlements to establish new automotive uses (body repair, oil change, etc.) in El Sobrante. Actions 3. UndertakeImprove drainage improvementsinfrastructure to reduce local flooding problems, especially along portions of Appian Way and San Pablo Dam Road that still have open roadside ditches. To the extent feasible, incorporate “green streets” principles in the design of such projects. 5. Work with AC Transit and other local public transit agencies to improve local service, restore BART feeder lines, and better connect El Sobrante to regional transit and community services such as hospitals. 7. Pursue construction of a new collector street connecting Pitt Way to Hillcrest Road. 12. Work with AC Transit and other local public transit agencies to improve local service, restore BART feeder lines, and better connect El Sobrante to regional transit and community services such as hospitals. 13. Continue to exploreassessing the feasibility of a creek-side boardwalk and park along publicly owned segments of San Pablo Creek. KENSINGTON The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information, to clarify content, or to remove redundancies with countywide goals, policies, and actions. Context Situated near the University of California and within El Cerrito’s Sphere of Influence, Kensington has been a desirable neighborhood for academics, students, urban professionals, and families for decades. Kensington residents enjoy the community’s panoramic views, mature trees, hillsides, walkable scale, and easy access to transit and regional parks. Although there is very limited potential for growth, many of the homes date from the 1930s and 40s and there is significant construction activity to upgrade and expand existing homes, those homesmost of which date from the 1940s and earlier. Kensington is orientedlocated along Arlington Avenue (“the Arlington”), a winding thoroughfare that connects to Berkeley on the south and El Cerrito on the north. There is a small commercial district located on the Arlington just north of the Berkeley city limit. A second commercial district is located on Colusa Circle in the lower part of Kensington, near the border with El Cerrito. Although aAlmost all of the homes in Kensington are single-family, and densities for that style of development are relatively high. August 21, 2024 | Page 44 Major Vulnerabilities Sunset View Cemetery, Tilden Regional Park, Kensington Park, and general outdoor recreation are vulnerable to drought, landslides, severe weather, and wildfire. Planned Land Use Land use designations for Kensington are shown on Figure LU -1, General Plan Land Use Map, and are defined in the Land Use Element. Kensington is planned for continued residential use at a density consistent with existing development, with small pockets of mixed use, commercial and office uses, public/institutional uses, and abundant parks and recreational land. Kensington’s two small commercial areas will continue to serve as the primary centers of local business for Kensington residents. The commercial areas alongat Colusa AvenueCircle and Arlington Avenue areis intended to maintain the community-serving uses already in place while accommodating mixed-use development on vacant and underutilized parcels. Kensington’s proximity to Tilden and Wildcat Canyon Regional Parks provides premier outdoor recreational opportunities for residents. As such, wide swaths of land beyond the developed area continue to be designated for public/semi-public and park and recreation uses. Guiding Principles 4. To remain a safe and complete community, enhancements to the existing public services and facilities, such as the Kensington Fire Protection District and Police Department facilityfacilities, Kensington Library and Community Center, the pedestrian path network, and local schools, should be supported. 6. A variety of housing types, including small multiple-family developments, duplexes, and accessory dwelling units (ADUs), should be encouraged to diversify the housing stock and better serve residents of all ages and abilities. 7. New housing should be compatible with the existing low- to medium-densitycommunity character and be designed to minimize negative impacts on roads, emergency response capacity, and infrastructure. Policies 1. Prioritize mitigation of wildfire and earthquake exposure Wwhen reviewing new development proposals, prioritize the need for mitigation of wildfire and earthquake exposure. 3. When reviewing new development proposals, ensure views of scenic natural features (e.g., San Francisco Bay, distant mountains) and the developed environment (e.g., bridges, San Francisco skyline) are substantially preserved. 5. Prioritize approval of projects that incorporate community-serving medical facilities and services. 6. Improve public safety facilities and emergency medical services to meet community needs. Action 6Policy 7. Support the replacement or updating of police and fire facilities with new or modernizedmodern facilities that meet Kensington’s long-term needs. (New Policy moved from Action 6 and revised as shown.) 7. Ensure thatCondition new construction and home renovation activitiesdevelopment projects to minimize impacts on neighbors and local roads, which may be compounded by existing small lots and narrow, winding roadways. 8. Accommodate new accessory dwelling units while minimizing their potential effects on street parking and emergency vehicle access. August 21, 2024 | Page 45 Actions 1. Improve pedestrian safety and roadway infrastructure with features such as designated paths, ongoing maintenance, illuminated crossings, stop signs, traffic calming measures, on-street parking spaces along Arlington Avenue and Colusa Circle, and ADA facilities. 3. Explore financial assistance programs to help residents maintain and upgrade their homes and implement seismic safety improvements. 4. Review the view protectionCounty oOrdinance Code Chapters 84-74 – Kensington Combining District and 816-2 – Tree Obstruction of Views Combining District and amend as necessary to ensure that it addresses issues such asrelated to view blockage by trees and vegetation are addressed. 5. Develop programs to maintain and improveExplore options for funding maintenance and improvement of Kensington’s public pedestrian path system. 6. Support the replacement or updating of police and fire facilities with new or modernized facilities that meet Kensington’s long-term needs. (Revise Action 6 and move to be Policy 7.) KNIGHTSEN The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information, to clarify content, or to remove redundancies with countywide goals, policies, and actions. Context TheConstruction of the first buildings soon followed, with the construction of a station house, railroad station, grocery store, and post office, soon followed; the Knightsen Farm Bureau was established in 1918. The community is listed in the County’s Historic Resources Inventory. Knightsen has been proactive in addressing its service and utility needs, starting in 1920 with the establishment of the Knightsen Irrigation District, which was quickly absorbed by the East Contra Costa Irrigation District. From 2005 -2023 the Knightsen Town Community Services District worked to enhance flood control and improve water quality, both topics of significant concern given Knightsen’s position in a low elevation area that receives substantial runoff. Today, residents remain concerned about water quality and water service, and they would like increased code enforcement into support of the community’s health and safety. Major Vulnerabilities Delta Road, Sellers Road, and the Union PacificBurlington Northern Santa Fe rRailroadway are vulnerable to extreme heat, flooding, and severe storms. Planned Land Use Most residences are constructed on agricultural parcels. Residential use is predominantly very low density, slightly increasesing as it approaches the community’s commercial core of the community within the Urban Limit Line. The existing commercial core will be retained to attract communitylocally -serving businesses and revitalize and beautify the central areaserve as the heart of the community. August 21, 2024 | Page 46 Guiding Principles 3. Development should embrace and be compatible with the community’s historic, rural character. Policies 2. Encourage re-use and rehabilitation of historic buildings and provide landscaping and street lighting to beautify the commercial area. Action 4Policy 3. Provide wideradequate sidewalks and more shoulder space along roads to protect pedestrians and accommodate horses. ((New Policy moved from Action 4 and revised as shown.) 4. Facilitate community events downtownin the commercial core. 7. Continue improving services related to code enforcement and public health and safety services. Actions 1. PlantInstall and maintain street trees and install street lighting downtownin the commercial core to support walkability and beautify the area. 4. Provide wider sidewalks and more shoulder space along roads to protect pedestrians and accommodate horses. (Revise Action 4 and move to be Policy 3.) 5. Implement measures to slow down traffic and limit traffic impacts from local agritourism. MONTALVIN MANOR, TARA HILLS, BAYVIEW, ROLLINGWOOD The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information, to clarify content, or to remove redundancies with countywide goals, policies, and actions. Context Situated along San Pablo Avenuenear the cities of San Pablo and Pinole, and within the Spheres of Influence of both in the northwestern part of the county, these four communities are made up of single-family neighborhoods with some multiple-family homes and small commercial storefrontsareas. The historic Union Pacific Railroad runs along this shoreline, creating challenges for safe and convenient access to theSan Pablo bBay. Interstate 80 skirts the eastern edge of Tara Hills, and traffic congestion and related air pollution during peak commute hours cause problems forimpact residents. Surface streets can be severely congested, and pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure is limited, impeding access to local amenities. Many of the neighborhood-serving commercial spaces in these communitycommunities have become vacant over time, limiting local service options and attracting illegal dumping. Impacted Community This law is based on the understanding that some communities have experienced a combination of historic discrimination, negligence neglect, and political and economic disempowerment. August 21, 2024 | Page 47 With the recent closure of a nearby medical center, rResidents must travel farther to Richmond on congested roads to receive carereach the nearest hospital. Planned Land Use The area designated Mixed-Use Community Specific Density at the intersection of San Pablo Avenue and Tara Hills Drive is intended to serve as a town center and commercial core planned for a range of neighborhood shopping, residential, and office uses that will stimulate improvements and reinvestment. Ideally, this mixed-use area will also serve as a central community gathering place. Montalvin Manor, Tara Hills, and Bayview wrap aroundborder the shoreline of San Pablo Bay, providing residents with beautiful views and valued access to nature. As such, access to shoreline and trail connections will be preserved through resource conservation andthe pPark and rRecreation land use designations. Guiding Principles 4. Water-oriented recreation uses along the shoreline should be encouraged, and shoreline access should be improved. 6. Young residents of these communities should be nurtured with high-quality youth programming. 13. Residents should feel safe in their communities with quality police protectionlaw enforcement services and a built environment that deters crime. Policies 1. In the mixed-use area atRequire the intersection of San Pablo Avenue and Tara Hills Drive, to be developed as a town center that includes a community gathering space and incorporates unified design elements to provide a sense of identity. attract and retainEncourage high-quality neighborhood-serving commercial and office uses.businesses Support the development of new commercial uses and local-serving businesses while promoting newand a mix of residential developmentunit types. 2. Prioritize the preservation of scenic views and access to natural lands, open spaces, and trails. 3. Require new development to protect on-site habitat areas and create additional parkswhenever possible. 42. Encourage development of neighborhood-scale commercial uses to be at a neighborhood scale and serve the needs ofthroughout the four communitiesy. (Renumber to be Policy 2.) 5. Encourage and attract high-quality, health-conscious, neighborhood-serving stores and restaurants, especially at the shopping center at the intersection of San Pablo Avenue and Tara Hills Drive. 6. Require the massing and scale of new development to be consistent with the community’s character whenever possible. 7. Consider the cumulative impacts on traffic congestion from development and require new development to improve sidewalk connections and provide bicycle infrastructure. 8. Address parking problems by implementing parking management strategies and requiring sufficient off-street space when new development is approved. August 21, 2024 | Page 48 9. Incentivize the development of medical care services or a hospital nearby to improve access to healthcarePrioritize approval of projects that incorporate community-serving medical facilities and services. 10. Coordinate with the cities of Richmond, San Pablo, and Pinole on decisions that affect Montalvin Manor, Tara Hills, Bayview, and Rollingwood residents. 11. Support Beautifybeautification the four communitiesy, and including the shoreline, through physical improvements such as urban greening,as well as increased effective code enforcement and vegetation maintenance, and efforts to address graffiti, illegal dumping, and abandoned vehicles. 12. Allow forSupport urban agriculture uses on vacant lots, in coordination with property owners, to encourage community cohesion and health. Actions 1. Evaluate the necessity of Cconducting a traffic study to analyze and address circulation deficiencies, opportunities, and constraints. The study should evaluate the high traffic congestion along San Pablo Avenue, Richmond Parkway, Tara Hills Drive, and adjacent surfacenearby neighborhood streets, and identify mitigation, such as improved signal timing and effective left-turn lanes, especially at the intersection of Richmond Parkway and San Pablo Avenue. 2. Add resident-friendlyProvide crosswalks, sidewalks, bike lanes, landscaping, and other essential pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure along major thoroughfares, including San Pablo Avenue, Richmond Parkway, and Tara Hills Drive, such as crosswalks, sidewalks, bike lanes, a sound barrier, landscaping, and other streetscape improvements . 4. Work with local transit providers to increase connections to BART stations , especially the El Cerrito Del Norte station, and to construct additional transit stop shelters that improve the safety and comfort of transit users without attracting loitering. 5. As a high priority, coordinate with County agencies, non-profits, and other organizations to investigate the feasibility of opening an emergency shelter to house residents of all ages that are homeless. 6. As a high priority, invest in neighborhood beautification, such as through urban greening and clean-up efforts for graffiti, illegal dumping, and abandoned vehicles. 7. Work with the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) to connect existing open spaces with a contiguous, well-maintained Bay Trail link along the shoreline from Point Wilson to Point Pinole for outdoor recreation and fishing. 8. Study the feasibility of constructing a bridge over the railroad at Point Wilson to facilitate connections to the water. 9. Work with ABAG/MTC and East Bay Regional Park District to Iimprove and increase connections to wildlife habitat, open spaces, and trails along the shoreline and Garrity Creek. 10.Assist a community-led process to increaseimprove youth programming at the Montara Bay Park Community Center and other recreation spaces throughout the four communities. 11.Establish a town center and community gathering place at the intersection of San Pablo Avenue and Tara Hills Drive to serve as a gathering space for residents of the four communities. Identify funding sources and strategies to support development of the town center. 12. Identify locations andStudy the feasibility of developing additional opportunities for recreation and access to nature, including a conveniently accessiblelocated dog park and a playground. August 21, 2024 | Page 49 NORTH RICHMOND The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information, to clarify content, or to remove redundancies with countywide goals, policies, and actions. Context Due to redlining practices and housing and lending discrimination, Black and other minority workers found it challenging to find housing closer to the ports and railyards, forcing them to relocate to North Richmond. North Richmond became a pocket of affordable, accessible housing for minority households, but with little neighborhood infrastructure. Following the wartime, many residents stayed to work in the petroleum, railroad, and shipping industries in Richmond, and the community continued to grow. Today, North Richmond is primarily residential south of Wildcat Creek. North of the creek, heavy iIndustrial uses dominate north of the creek. Housing is relatively affordable compared to the rest of the Bay Area, but the housing stock is aging and many households facegrapple with high housing cost burdens and poor infrastructure. North Richmond residents are actively engaged in local planning and advocate for their community through Urban Tilth, the Verde Elementary School, the Watershed Project, and other community organizations and initiatives. Planning is complicated by jurisdictional linesboundaries, with part of the neighborhood being within the Richmond city limit. Given its proximity to heavy industrial uses, including the Chevron Richmond Refinery, residents are very concerned about community health, along with other issues like crime and illegal dumping. There are regulations in place to mitigate emissions from new industrial users, and the community ishas workeding with the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) to develop an action framework for community air protectionon the Richmond-North Richmond-San Pablo Community Emissions Reduction Plan. In addition, while there have been recent levee, improvements and streetscape, and sidewalk improvements, community members would like additional roadway infrastructure and transit improvements that ensure safe, equitable, and affordable transportation access for all modes. Major Vulnerabilities The West County Wastewater treatment plant and the recycling center in North Richmond is are vulnerable to coastal flooding. Impacted Community This law is based on the understanding that some communities have experienced a combination of historic discrimination, negligence neglect, and political and economic disempowerment. North Richmond experiences high levels of diesel particulate matter due to the oil refineryindustrial uses, chemical companiesplants, highways, truck traffic, rail yards, shipping ports, and marine terminals located within and near the community. Exposure to air pollution and chemicals contributes to eye, throat, and nose irritation, along with heart and lung disease. As shown in the chart, North Richmond residents visit the emergency room for asthma conditions at a rate that is among the highest rate in the state. There are frequent violations of air quality rules from facilities in and around North Richmond, and air testing has found unsafe levels of industrial pollutants inside residents’ homes. There are also many hazardous waste facilities and generators that affect North Richmond, including the Chevron Refinery, chemical companies, and Superfund sites. Beyond the acute risks to human and environmental health, these sources also raise concerns about odors, vermin, and increased freight traffic. The community is also burdened by historical and perceived high rates of crime. In addition to safety concerns, outdoor recreation and active transportation are hampered by a lack of trail maintenance and the need for more connected walking and biking infrastructure. Limited access to active recreation and transportation, coupled with August 21, 2024 | Page 50 limited access to stores that sell fresh and healthy food, can leadcontribute to poor health outcomes for local residents. Planned Land Use The area south of Wildcat Creek is the heart of the community and is planned for the continuation ofcontinued residential uses at a range ofvarious densities, supported by local-serving commercial development. The mixed-use designations along Fred Jackson Way, Market Avenue, and Chesley Avenue are intended to create a combination of affordable, multiple-family residential unitshomes and ground-level retail, service, and office uses. The former Las Deltas campus is designated Residential Medium-High Density. The 11.38-acre site is an opportunity for innovative development that addresses a range of housing needs. The North Richmond Design Guidelines provide more detailed design guidance for development in this area. Guiding Principles 1. Affordable rental and ownership housing opportunities should be expanded and integrated into market rate developments. A range of housing types should be available to meet extremely -low, very -low, and low -income levels, and existing community members should be prioritized for available housing. 4. Sensitive uses, like schools, senior housing, and child-care facilities, should be buffered from heavy industrial uses. (Revise Guiding Principle 4 and move to be Policy 5.) 9. North Richmond should be a safe place for people of all abilities to walk, bike, and drive. Speeding and cut -through traffic should be eliminated as much as possible, negative impacts from truck traffic should be mitigated, and conflicts at rail crossings should be addressed, possibly through grade separationsed from roadways. Policies 1. Coordinate with the West Contra Costa Unified School District, the City of Richmond, and residents, includingparticularly youth, to enhance existing open spaces, including Shields-Reid Park, Verde Elementary School, and Lucky A’s Field, to provide the fullest civic, educational, social, and recreational benefits for the community. 3. Prohibit the construction of large walls or gates that divide the community. Guiding Principle 4Policy 5. Buffer sSensitive uses, like schools, senior housing, and child-care facilities, should be buffered from heavy industrial uses. (Revise Guiding Principle 4 as shown and move to be Policy 5.) 5. Support Ccontinued to monitor air quality monitoring through air quality sensors installed throughout the community as part of the Community Air Protection Program (Assembly Bill 617). 6. Require that new development incorporate green infrastructure solutions to minimize flooding and environmental pollution, such as bioswales, detention or retention ponds, and cisterns that capture rainwater for irrigation . 7. Promote the use of native plants in green infrastructure, landscaping, and parks. Action 3Policy 7. Support efforts to Rrestore creeks with native plants, including possibly planting an urban forest at the eastern end ofnear Wildcat Creek east of Verde Elementary School, and develop new amenities, connections, and access points along Wildcat Creek., and Cconsider partnering with local non-profit organizations to maintain vegetation along the creek. (Revise Action 3 as shown and move to be Policy 7.) August 21, 2024 | Page 51 Action Policy 9. Support the Safe Routes to School Program by providing adequate pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure around Verde Elementary. (Move Action 9 to be Policy 9.) 10. Support workforce development and wealth-building programs for residents and locally -owned businesses, cooperatives, and other uses offering benefits to the community, such as grocery stores, community kitchens, and child-care facilities. (QOL B.1) 11. Seek community benefit agreements for new large commercial developments. Such agreements could include requirements for local hiring, apprenticeship and training programs, and funding for school and education programs. The following recommended changes are in response to a comment received on January 10, 2024, via Konveio. 11. Encourage new mixed-use and commercial development that provides neighborhood-scale businesses. (New Policy) 13. Encourage residential projects that offer paths to home ownership and exceed the affordability requirements of the County’s Inclusionary Housing Ordinance. (New Policy) The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information, to clarify content, or to remove redundancies with countywide goals, policies, and actions. Actions 2. Seek Opportunity Zone funding or support community advocacy forStudy the feasibility of partnering with community organizations to establish a social impact bond, with non-profit governance, to developprovide funds for renovation of homes, ideally by the local labor force. 3. Restore creeks with native plants, including planting an urban forest at the eastern end of Wildcat Creek, and develop new amenities, connections, and access points along Wildcat Creek. Consider partnering with local non -profit organizations to maintain vegetation along the creek. (Revise Action 3 and move to be Policy 7.) 4. Construct trailWork with East Bay Regional Park District to improve connections tobetween the Bay Trail and to residential areascommunity, including the residential areas adjacent to Wildcat Creeka potential Wildcat Creek Trail crossing over Richmond Parkway, and install amenities likesuch as educational signs, bathrooms, water fountains, and benches. 5. Assist a community-led process to seek funding for a multi-use trail over Richmond Parkway to complete the Wildcat Creek Trail crossing to the marsh. 6. Evaluate the effectiveness of Iinstalling and monitor security cameras in areas whereto deter illegal dumping is prevalent. 7. Work with the community to Pprepare and implement a street corridor and gateway beautification plan that celebrates the unique historical identity of North Richmond and instills civic pride and a sense of unity among residents. 8. Update the North Richmond Specific Plan to encompass the entire community and integrate goals and concepts from recent planning efforts, including such as the 2019 Quality of Life Plan and the 2018 Priority Resilience Plan developed as part of the Bay Area Resilient by Design Challenge. August 21, 2024 | Page 52 9. Support the Safe Routes to School Program by providing adequate pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure around Verde Elementary. (Moved to be Policy 9) 10. Develop a plan for equitable access to active transportation and to address speeding, dangerous intersections, and cut-through traffic on 1st Street and Richmond Parkway. 11. Install pedestrian and bicycle improvements to increase safety along Fred Jackson Way. 12. Designate truck routes thatto minimize impacts on schools and homes. 13. Adopt viable methods to encourage local residents to open businesses in North Richmond, such as proactive outreach to the community, assisting with funding through various tax incentives, streamlining entitlement processes, and revising County ordinances and fees. PACHECO The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information, to clarify content, or to remove redundancies with countywide goals, policies, and actions. Pacheco sits justimmediately north of Pleasant Hill and east of Martinez and west of Buchanan Field Airport in central Contra Costa County. Portions of Pacheco are within the Spheres of Influence of both cities. It was once a prosperous shipping center for grain exports, but fires, floods, and earthquakes in the mid-19th century resulted in much of its population relocating to Concord. Today it encompasses a variety of uses, includingincludes residential, commercial, office, entertainment, and light industryindustrial uses. Residents take pride in being part of a neighborly, self-sufficient community with easy access to nature. The community enjoys accessits proximity to the Iron Horse Trail and Contra Costa Canal Trail, which connect Pacheco to other locations in the region. Residents seek improved connections to these trails and to the Benicia Bridge to increase walking and biking options for commuting and recreation. The community would also like to reinvigorate its commercial corridorscore by strengthening businesses along the main thoroughfares. Impacted Community This law is based on the understanding that some communities have experienced a combination of historic discrimination, negligence neglect, and political and economic disempowerment. While there are multiple Census tracts that make up Pacheco, this chart presents only the most-impacted Census tract in Pachecothe community. Pacheco is adjacent to the intersection of Highway 4 and Interstate 680, with Interstate 680 bisecting residential parts of the community. Due to its proximity to major thoroughfaresfreeways and the Buchanan Field Airport, residents in the eastern part of Pacheco face health risks associated with poor air quality, and have higher rates of asthma-induced emergency room visits than people in other parts of the state. Pacheco residents have raised concerns about increasing traffic congestion along major highwaysInterstate 680 and Highway 4, as well as air quality and noise issues from the airport. They are also concerned about homeless encampments under the highway overpasses in the community. In addition, Pacheco residents have limited access to recreation access. While Grayson Creek runs through the community, residents are concerned about the lack of creek maintenance; they would also like better maintenance of Pacheco Creekside Park, along with more trail connections and entrances to the park. August 21, 2024 | Page 53 Planned Land Use Pacheco’s residential areas are located on both sides of Interstate 680. Residential uses west of 680 consist of single - family and multiple-family dwellingshomes, while residences east of 680 consist of mobile homes. No changes are planned for these residential areas. Pacheco’s mixed-use and industrial areas begin at the intersection of Pacheco Boulevard and 2nd Avenue South and extend north along Pacheco Boulevard topast Highway 4. This corridor is planned to remain the central hub of local business and industry for Pacheco residents. Applying the Mixed-Use Community Specific Density designation along the southern portion of Pacheco Boulevard and Aspen Drive is intended to create a town center to revitalize the area and take advantage of the visual quality and access to Grayson Creek. Infill development on vacant and underutilized parcels in this area is encouraged to promote development of community-serving uses and new residential options. Pacheco is proximate to local and regional trails, such as the Pacheco Creekside Park path, Contra Costa Canal Trail, Iron Horse Trail, and Bay Trail over the Benicia Bridge. As such, stretches of land designated for rResource cConservation and pParks and rRecreation will be retained to preserve access. Guiding Principles 3. ThePacheco’s convenient location should be maximized to support and enhance the diverse business community should be supported and enhancedand promote economic development. Policies 1. Coordinate with the cities of Martinez, Pleasant Hill, and Concord to ensureachieve land use conformityharmony across jurisdictional boundaries. 3. Encourage the establishment and growth of locally -serving businesses that fulfill the needs of residents, as well as larger commercial and light industrial businesses to provide job opportunities to the community. 4. Utilize Pacheco’s convenient location to promote economic development along major thoroughfares, especiallySupport development around the intersection of Pacheco Boulevard and Center Avenue as a town center with unified design elements. 6. Work with agencies such as East Bay Regional Park District and Contra Costa Water District to Iimprove connections to local and regional trails, such as the Pacheco Creekside Park path, Contra Costa Canal Trail, Iron Horse Trail, and Bay Trail over the Benicia Bridge. 7. Improve road maintenance and reduce traffic congestion on local roads. 8. This should include encouraging transit providers to expand public transit options and promoting alternative transportation modes. 9. Improve and maintain stormwater infrastructure to prevent flooding. Actions 1. Identify a suitable locations for additional park facilities, including kid-friendly amenities such as play structures, and an expanded community gathering space. 3. ImplementInstall safe bike routes and infrastructure including painted bike lanes along local roads. August 21, 2024 | Page 54 4. Update the Historic Resources Inventory to addinclude Pacheco’s historically significant buildings and sitesstructures that may not have been considered historic at the time of the last inventory. PORT COSTA The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information, to clarify content, or to remove redundancies with countywide goals, policies, and actions. Context Situated among the rolling hills of the East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) open space along the Carquinez Strait, Port Costa is a small town of approximately 200250 people. Originally founded in 1879 as a deep-water shipping port, the community had an important role in the export of wheat and was a stop on the transcontinental railroad. Upon the constructioncompletion of a railroad bridge tobetween Martinez and Benicia in 1930, Port Costa diminished in size and regional significance. Port Costa is fairly isolated, with only two narrow, winding access roads. Carquinez Scenic Drive connects to Crockett and Interstate 80 and Crockett to the west, and McEwen Road connects to Highway 4 and Martinez to the south. The predominant land use is single-family housing, with a small downtown area consisting of a few businesses and a post office near the water and railroad. The railroad is in active use today, which inhibitsimpedes public access to the waterfront, a major concern among residents. Residents act as stewards of the historic assets in Port Costa. They are also passionate about protecting the surrounding open space and preserving a healthy watershed to ensure a sustainable future. Residents are also interested in establishing a bike trail connection from Port Costa to Crockett. Planned Land Use The mixed-use area at the eastern end of Canyon Lake Drive serves to recognize the area’s historic character of residencestial over street -level businesses, as well as to encourage and attract additional development that will complement existing businesses and take advantage of visual access to the waterfront. The lands surrounding the community are outside the Urban Limit Line and protected from intense development through Parks and Recreation, Resource Conservation, Agricultural Lands designations. Guiding Principles 1. Port Costa should be a resilient community that has planned for and is safe from sea -level rise, wildfire hazards, and the acute and long-term risks ofassociated with nearby industrial uses. 4. Public facilities and amenities, including regional parkland, communitylocal parks and open spaces, and schools, should be preserved and enhanced. Open spaces should be inviting and clear of trash and debris. Policies 2. Support the establishment of a regional recreation area in the vicinity of Port Costa which is oriented towards pedestrian use and day usecontinued development of Carquinez Strait Regional Shoreline Park and regional trails, including a potential bike trail connection to Crockett. 3. Limit commercialEncourage development toof small-scale specialty and neighborhood retail shops. and Avoid discourage establishment of automobile-oriented uses. August 21, 2024 | Page 55 4. Encourage the preservation, sensitive rehabilitation, and adaptive reuse of Port Costa’s older buildings, particularly those that have been identified as local historic placesin the Historic Resources Inventory. Recognize Port Costa’s authentic character and inventory of historic buildings as assets and amenities to attract businesses, visitors, and local investment to the community. 5. Protect and preserve the scenic quality of the shoreline while encouraging water-oriented commercial and recreational activities that enhance Port Costa’s identity as a waterfront community. Actions 1. Assist a community-led process to develop design guidelines that complement the County’s Objective Design and Development Standards and are tailored to the unique setting, historic fabric, lot patters, design character, and mix of uses in the community. 2. Update the Historic Resources Inventory to include Port Costa’s historically significant buildings and sitesadd structures that may not have been considered historic at the time of the last inventory. 3. Improve waterfront access, including access to the shoreline and lateral access along the shoreline itself. Work with the State Lands Commission and Union Pacific Railroad to improve waterfront access, including lateral access along the shoreline itself, provide new amenities along the shoreline, and mitigate thelimitations on access from the railroad tracks, and encourage water-oriented business and commercial activities that enhance Port Costa’s identity as a waterfront community. 4. Establish a scenic waterway designation along the shoreline that protects and preserves its scenic quality, and encourage access for fishing, boating, hiking, cycling, and other recreational activities. (3-142) RODEO The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information, to clarify content, or to remove redundancies with countywide goals, policies, and actions. Context Congestion on Interstate 80, coupled with the lack of a BART station or ferry stationsterminal nearby, create circulation constraints at peak commute times. The Phillips 66 Refinery, established in 1896, occupies over 1,0001,100 acres in the northern part of Rodeo. In August 2020, Phillips 66 announced a plan to convert tThe Rodeo Refinery has been converted into a renewable fuels plant. However, Mmany residents remain concerned about potential refinery impacts, such as air quality and safety. Impacted Community This law is based on the understanding that some communities have experienced a combination of historic discrimination, negligence neglect, and political and economic disempowerment. While there are multiple Census tracts that make up Rodeo, this chart presents only the most-impacted Census tract in Rodeo the community. Past activities at the refinery have impacted community and environmental health. Multiple hazardous waste facilities and incidents have resulted in clean-up sites, impaired water bodies, and air pollution. In the past decade15 years, August 21, 2024 | Page 56 industrial activities in and around Rodeo businesses have emitted numerous hazardous gases, ignited fires, contaminated soil, and spilled crude oil into San Pablo Bay. Planned Land Use The majority of Rodeo is planned for a mixture of residential and commercial land uses at various densities. North of the community, the existing Phillips 66 Refinery and nearby facilities continues to be designated for industryindustrial use. It isThey are adjacent to areas designated aAgricultural Lands and rResource cConservation areas that serve as a buffer and protect local open space. Rodeo includes a Mixed-Use Community-Specific Density designation along Parker Avenue from Seventh Avenue to the waterfront and along Pacific Avenue. The vision here is to support residential units over street-level businesses. Rodeo also includes a Mixed-Use designation in its downtown and along the waterfront. This is intended to facilitate the creation of a town center, encouraging the revitalization of downtown Rodeo by concentrating commercialretail, entertainment, and officeservice uses and developing townhomes, and multiple-family residential buildings, and living units above street-level businesses. The marina is designated Commercial Recreation to promote revitalization there. The Rodeo Waterfront/Downtown Specific Plan (1997) and Rodeo Redevelopment Area Planned Unit Development Zoning Code and Design Guidelines (2005) provide more detailed guidance for this area. Policies 2. Direct all new development towards infill opportunities (i.e., vacant or underutilized parcels rather than open space beyond the developed area). 3. Require that new development to adhere to the Rodeo Waterfront/ Downtown Specific Plan goals, policies, and design standards and guidelines, which support a vision for a visually cohesive, economically viable, and people- oriented downtown and waterfront area. 6. Require major new development to provide or contribute to recreational amenities for community enhancement along with adequate parking for residents, employees, visitors, and patrons. Action 5Policy 7. Support community-led efforts to develop a pool at the site of the oldformer Rodeo Swim Club pool. (Revise Action 5 as shown and move to be Policy 7.) 7. Promote the development of water-oriented commercial, recreation, mixed-use, and transportation uses atalong the waterfront. 8. Maximize public access to theSan Pablo Bay, including a waterfront trail. Action 6Policy 9. Support implementation of a Safe Routes to School Program and provide adequate pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure. (Move Action 6 to be Policy 9.) 9. Use distinct signage and streetscape design elements on both sides of Interstate 80 to create a better sense of cohesiveness throughout the community. 11. Work withSupport efforts by civic organizations to support and enhancehold community gatherings, such as food truck events while minimizing competition with local businesses. 12. Support beautification and walkability bythrough effective code enforcementing codes relatedand implementation of strategies to curb illegal dumping, streets, sidewalks, properties, and building facades. August 21, 2024 | Page 57 13. Prioritize the safety and health of residents living adjacent to heavy industrial uses. 14. Support agreements between the community and heavy industrial business operators.Prioritize approval of projects that incorporate community-serving medical facilities and services. 15. Attract and support clean, green industry. 16. Continue efforts to avoid and mitigate the effects of industrial traffic on downtown streets. 17. Work with the Rodeo-Hercules Fire District to ensure that response time standards for industrial accidents and other emergencies can be met throughout the community. 18. Coordinate with the City of Hercules on decisions thatlikely to affect Rodeo residents. 19. Partner with localcivic organizations to expand opportunities to engagefor community members to engage in the planning process. Actions 1. Complete the Implementation Tasks identified in Chapter 5 of the Rodeo Waterfront/ Downtown Specific Plan, including the development of a linear park along the Rodeo Creek Trail and a waterfront promenade. (2-151, 3-155, 3- 156, 3-161) 2. Study potential redevelopment options for the marina area, such as a new public or private marina or other water recreation facility. Based on the results of the study, actively market the site to potential developers and work with partners to pursue grant funding for a public facility. 3. Actively seek a developer of a new community market or grocery store, ideally one that reflects the community’s ethnic and cultural diversity. 4. Partner with community groups to create a plan to developconstruct and operate civic facilities, such as a community center, youth center, new senior center, sports center, town plaza, dog park, and/or parks and open spaces. As part of this plan, identify funding sources and strategies. 5. Support community-led efforts to develop a pool at the site of the old Rodeo Swim Club pool. (Revise Action 5 and move to be Policy 7.) 6. Support implementation of a Safe Routes to School Program and provide adequate pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure. (Moved Action 6 to be Policy 9.) 7. Eliminate sidewalk gaps on San Pablo Avenue, Willow Avenue, Pacific Avenue, and Vaqueros Avenue, especially near bustransit stops. 8. Improve safety and comfort on the Rodeo Creek Trail by installing pedestrian -scale lighting and other amenities fencing, and improving maintenance, especially in the area just north of Seventh Street. 9. Improvements should be coordinated withPartner with the community to organized creek clean-ups. August 21, 2024 | Page 58 SARANAP AND PARKMEAD The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information, to clarify content, or to remove redundancies with countywide goals, policies, and actions. Context They are split between the Spheres of Influence of both cities. Saranap traces its origins to 1911, when it became a stop on the Oakland, Antioch, and Eastern Railroad line between Oakland and Sacramento. The railroad ran along what is now Olympic Boulevard, with the station located at the current intersection with Tice Valley Boulevard. Saranap is named for Sara Naphthaly, mother of railroad vice president Samuel Naphthaly. Parkmead is located southeast of Saranap. Despite their proximity to downtown Walnut Creek, these two communities have retained unique identities valued by their residents. ApartmentsMulti-family homes and commercial businesses were developed along Boulevard Way and on Saranap Avenue near the Interstate 680/Highway 24 interchange. Today, about one-quarter of the housing units in Saranap are apartments and condominiums. Planned Land Use Aside from enhanced neighborhood amenities, no changes are planned for the existing lower -density residential areas. New development willis planned to occur in mixed-use areas along major roads, incorporating a range of neighborhood-serving commercial uses and multiple-family dwellings. Mixed-use projects that incorporate affordable housing are highly encouraged. The mixed-use area along Boulevard Way will create a more unified and vibrant urban center offering medium- to high -density housing choices. Policies 1. In mixed-use areas, preserve adequate square footage of commercial uses to meet the daily needs of the community. Support retention of active commercial uses and localneighborhood-serving businesses while promoting new multiple-family residential development, especially affordable units. 2. Maintain public views of Mount Diablo and surrounding scenic ridges to the greatest extent feasible. Protect the undeveloped hillside and ridge south of Olympic Boulevard and west of Tice Valley Boulevard. 4. Encourage mixed-use projects consisting of neighborhood-serving commercial uses and multiple-family dwellings, particularly those including affordable housing. 7. Discourage roof heights exceeding 40 feet, or and architectural features (such as parapets) exceeding 45 feet. 9. Encourage constructionRequire installation of street and sidewalk amenities of a consistent character that foster a cohesive “district” appearance along Boulevard Way. Actions 1. Evaluate and improve pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure where feasiblepossible, particularly along the full length of Boulevard Way. August 21, 2024 | Page 59 2. Identify a location for a neighborhoodlocal park or other community facility/space within Saranap that may include a playground, lawn area, dog run/park, picnic area, exercise equipment, and community garden. Require future development projects to contribute their fair share towards its establishment. 3. Reconfigure and enhance the Boulevard Way right-of-way, from its intersection with Saranap Avenue east to the City of Walnut Creek border, as follows: a. Reduce width to two lanes. b. Install diagonal parking and Class II or Class III bicycle facilities along both sides. c. Install traffic-calming devices and crosswalks where appropriatenecessary. d. Install parklets. e. Widen sidewalks. f. Install street trees, landscaping, decorative streetlights, street furniture, water features, public artwork, and other appropriatedesired amenities. VINE HILL AND MOUNTAIN VIEW The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information, to clarify content, or to remove redundancies with countywide goals, policies, and actions. Context Vine Hill and Mountain View are small unincorporated communities located on the northern border of Martinez and within its Sphere of Influence. The communities consist primarily consist of single-family homes with a fewand pockets of commercial uses along Pacheco Boulevard, Howe Road, and Arthur Road,. Interstate 680 runs through Vine Hill and Highway 4 runs just south of the two communities, providing regional access to other parts of the Bay Area. These two communitiesand are situated adjacent to the Martinez Refiningery Company and other industrial uses. Interstate 680 runs through Vine Hill and Highway 4 runs just south of the two communities, providing regional access to other parts of the Bay Area. Many residents travel to Martinez or beyond for education, work, services, and amenities. The Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad runs east-west through Vine Hill, transporting cargo to and from Bay Area ports. Many residents travel to Martinez or beyond for education, work, services, and other amenities. Residents also cite parking as an prevalent issue in their neighborhoods and would like to increase parking availability near their homes. Impacted Community This law is based on the understanding that some communities have experienced a combination of historic discrimination, negligence neglect, and political and economic disempowerment. Given the communities’ close proximity to a refineryies and other heavy industrial and manufacturing operations, residents may be at higher risk of exposure to harmful substances in the air, water, and land. Hazardous waste disposal facilities and domestic landfills, officially termed the Vine Hill Complex, are also located just east of these residential communitiesy. Planned Land Use Most of the land in these communitiesy is planneddesignated for continued residential, industrial, and open spaceconservation uses, with the commercial pockets also remaining. No major developments or changes are August 21, 2024 | Page 60 planned, except in the mixed-use corridor along a portion of Pacheco Boulevard where the Mixed-Use Community- Specific Density designation is applied. This area is envisioned as a community core planned for development that wouldthat provides an wide array of uses for to support residents while stimulating reinvestment in the community at large. Policies 1. Prioritize the preservation and restoration of wetlands, wildlife habitat, open spaces, and connections to nature. Maximize opportunities to protect and enhance Vine Hill Creek. 2. Prioritize roadway improvements to reduce traffic congestion on Pacheco Boulevard. Incorporate pedestrian, bicycle, and stormwater infrastructure improvements when feasible to improve safety and facilitate mobility throughout the communities. 3. Improve public transit options and accessibility and promote alternative transportation modes. 4. Proactively enforce County codes to sSupport community beautification and safety. Encourage improved community appearance through graffiti removal, litter reduction, street and sidewalk maintenance, abatement of illegal dumping, and code enforcement. 5. Encourage economic investment along major thoroughfares, includingespecially commercial and mixed-use development, along Pacheco Boulevard. 6. Incorporate safe, well-maintained open spaces and gathering places in new commercial and mixed-use development projects. In addition, multiple-family residential development should contribute toward the development of parks and recreational facilities that serve the community at large. Actions 1. Install traffic calming to reduce speeding and increase safety for cyclists on Pacheco Boulevard Install improvements along Pacheco Boulevard to enhance pedestrian and bicycle safety, community appearance, and traffic flow. 2. Undertake drainage improvements to reduceAddress local flooding problems. To the extent feasible, incorporate “green streets” principles in the design of such projects. 3. Close sidewalk gaps and improve pedestrian infrastructure, especially in the vicinity of Las Juntas Elementary School. 4. Study the feasibility of creating secondary roadway access to and from the portion of Vine Hill east of Interstate 680. 5. Provide more frequent curbside waste services, including recycling and organics collection. August 21, 2024 | Page 61 LAND USE ELEMENT The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 4-2/Land Use Designations and Map (new illustration and text edits) This illustration shows the difference between gross and net acreage. Standards for allowed residential density and intensity of nonresidential uses are described below. These standards reference gross acreage, which is the acreage of the entire parcel designated for the use, and net acreage, which is the area remaining after land is dedicated for rights-of-way, easements, and other public or common uses. • Residential densities are expressed in terms of dwelling units per net acre, which is the area remaining after land is dedicated for rights-of-way, easements, and other public or common uses. As a rule of thumb, the County assumes net acreage to be 75 percent of the gross for single -family residential projects and 80 percent of the gross for multiple-family residential and mixed-use projects. A project’s actual density is calculated during the development review process and must fall within the density range for the applicable land use designation unless State laws, policies within this General Plan, or zoning regulations allow for higher or lower densities. Page 4-3/65/35 Land Preservation Standard As of 20234, approximately 28 percent of the land countywide has been designated for urban uses. Page 4-7/Table LU-1 PARKS and RECREATION │ PR: Applied to publicly- and privately-owned parks and similar outdoor spaces. Includes neighborhood and community local parks in urban areas as well as federal, State, and regional parks and historic sites that are managed primarily for conservation purposes and provide active or passive recreational activities. Ancillary amenities such as visitor centers, event spaces, amusements/rides, and eateries that support or enhance the primary recreational use are consistent with this designation. August 21, 2024 | Page 62 RESOURCE CONSERVATION │ RC: Applied to the watersheds of reservoirs owned by public utilities, mitigation banks, habitat restoration sites, ecologically significant or environmentally sensitive areas that are not within publicly-owned parkland, and hazardous or otherwise constrained areas that are unsuitable for development. Resource management, low-intensity agriculture, low-intensity recreation, and similar activities are consistent with this designation when conducted in a way that is not damaging to the resources being protected. Construction of public and semi-public infrastructure, and one single- family residence on an existing legal lot under private ownership, is consistent with this designation. All types of urban development and subdivisions that increase density are prohibited. The following changes are recommended by staff in response to a comment letter received on March 26, 2024, from the Alamo Improvement Association. Page 4-7/Table LU-1 Notes on Mixed-Use Designations 1. Single-use residential and single-use nonresidential projects are allowed in areas with mixed-use designations; however, policies elsewhere in this General Plan may encourage or require mixed - use projects at specific locations. 2. The densities stated in each mixed-use designation apply only when a project includes a residential component; they do not compel residential development in otherwise nonresidential projects. 3. The FAR for each mixed-use designation is inclusive of residential and nonresidential development; density and FAR are not additive. 34. Mixed-use projects may be horizontal, meaning residential and nonresidential uses exist on the same site, or vertical, meaning residential and non-residential uses exist in the same building. Page 4-11/Urban Limit Line Because the 65/35 Standard limits urban land use designations to no more than 35 percent of the county’s total land area, the County and cities must work cooperatively to maintain ensure that over 60,000 acres within the ULLs/UGBs remain under non-urban land use designations. Fortunately, a significant portion of this acreage already is permanently protected as local parks, regional parks and open spaces, reservoirs, and other public facilities. Examples of protected lands within the ULLs/UGBs include several regional parks within Richmond’s city limits (4,000 acres), Lafayette Reservoir and its surrounding recreation area (900 acres), Thurgood Marshall Regional Park (2,500 acres), Lime Ridge Open Space (1,200 acres), and Big Break Regional Shoreline (1,600 acres). August 21, 2024 | Page 63 The following change is recommended in response to a joint comment letter received on March 25, 2024, from 350 Contra Costa Action, Sunflower Alliance, Grid Alternatives, Bike East Bay, Contra Costa County Climate Leaders, Greenbelt Alliance, Citizens Climate Lobby, 1000 Grandmothers for Future Generations, Interfaith Climate Action Network, Center for Human Development and East County Community Leaders Network, Climate Reality Bay Area, and Sierra Club. Page 4-15/Action LU-A1.2 Periodically update Review County Ordinance Code Titles 7 – Building Regulations, 8 – Zoning, 9 – Subdivisions, and 10 – Public Works and Flood Control at least once every five years and update as necessary to maintain consistency with State law and newly adopted or revised planning documents (General Plan, Specific Plans, etc.); address emerging issues; and respond to economic, technological, and social trends. The following new action is recommended by staff in response to a comment letter received on March 26, 2024, from the Alamo Improvement Association. Page 4-15/Goal LU-1 New Action LU-A1.4 Quantify the acreage designated for urban land uses at least once every five years to ensure continued compliance with the 65/35 Land Preservation Standard. The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 4-16/Policy LU-P2.4 Prohibit Deny applications for major subdivisions outside the ULL as well as and successive minor subdivisions of lots outside the ULL that were created through previous subdivisions. Page 4-16/Goal LU-2 Move Policy HS-P4.1 to instead be Policy LU-P2.10 and edit as follows: When considering development proposals and land use changes, treat susceptibility to hazards and threats to health and safety human life as primary considerations. Page 4-17/Goal LU-2 See the Land Use, Infrastructure, and Transportation Coordination section of this Element and the Public Facilities and Services Element for additional policies and actions on urban services and infrastructure. See the Conservation, Open Space, Conservation, and Working Lands Element for additional policies and actions on agricultural areas, resource-based uses, and open space management. Page 4-21/Intergovernmental Coordination Important regional partners in land use planning include the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG)/Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC); Delta Protection Commission and Delta Stewardship Council, which has regulatory have authority over land uses within the Primary Zone of the Delta and Legal Delta, respectively (see Figure LU-3); and the US military, which must be consulted on projects proposed near its facilities (see Figure LU-4) to ensure new development does not conflict with operations or pose safety risks. August 21, 2024 | Page 64 An important component of long-range regional planning in the Bay Area is designation of Priority Development Areas (PDAs). PDAs are proximate to public transit and planned for concentrated development of new homes, jobs, services, and community amenities. PDAs are envisioned as walkable areas that provide the necessities of daily living, thereby allowing residents to be less automobile dependent. ABAG/MTC offers grants and other assistance to develop and implement PDA plans. While PDAs are a regional planning tool, they are under the jurisdiction of the cities and counties where they are located. Over 30 PDAs have been designated in Contra Costa County, six of which are entirely or partially within the unincorporated area, as shown on Figure LU-5 and described in Table LU-3. Another regional planning tool supported by ABAG/MTC is Transit-Oriented Communities (TOCs). TOCs are similar to PDAs in that their purpose is to create walkable communities near public transit. However, TOCs specifically aim to provide high residential densities within one-half mile of high-quality transit facilities like BART stations and ferry terminals, whereas PDAs may have lower average densities and extend farther out. A TOC therefore may exist within a larger PDA. In Contra Costa County there are 14 locations (12 BART stations, one Amtrak station, and one ferry terminal) that could qualify for designation as a TOC. As shown on Figure LU -5, these include unincorporated areas near the Pleasant Hill/Contra Costa Centre and Pittsburg/Bay Point BART Stations. Table LU-3: Priority Development Areas in Unincorporated Contra Costa County (New table) Priority Development Area Households Jobs 2010 2040 Projected 2010-2040 Growth % Growth 2010 2040 Projected 2010-2040 Growth % Growth San Pablo Avenue Corridor - Unincorporated County 1,586 4,784 3,198 202% 847 1,087 240 28% North Richmond 1,080 4,304 3,224 299% 1,797 2,400 603 34% Downtown El Sobrante 559 784 225 40% 1,030 1,127 97 9% Contra Costa Centre 354 623 269 76% 4,441 5,888 1,447 33% Pittsburg/Bay Point BART Station 847 1,460 613 72% 838 1,959 1,121 134% Brentwood Boulevard tbd tbd Source: 2017 Contra Costa PDA Investment and Growth Strategy. Contra Costa Transportation Authority. The following change is recommended by staff in response to a comment letter received on March 26, 2024, from the Alamo Improvement Association. Page 4-21/Action LU-A5.1 In 2025 and at least once every five years thereafter, evaluate the County’s off-street parking standards to ensure their continued applicability in light of changing conditions, trends, and technologiesy. Each evaluation August 21, 2024 | Page 65 should assess the appropriateness of reducing or eliminating parking minimums, taking off-site impacts and the variations in parking needs between communities into account, and recommend strategies for reducing parking demand. The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 4-21/Goal LU-5 Move existing Policy LU-P6.4 to instead be Policy LU-P5.2 and edit as follows: Coordinate with LAFCO to ensure that city annexations and related land use decisions do not: (a) Interfere with attainment of the County’s land use goals as expressed in this General Plan. (b) Include Housing Element inventory sites unless provisions have been made to transfer the site’s assigned units to the receiving city’s Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA). (c) Create new unincorporated “islands” (i.e., isolated developed areas substantially surrounded by incorporated cities. Renumber the subsequent policies accordingly. Move Policy LU-P6.5 to instead be Policy LU-P5.3 and edit as follows: Encourage cities to annex unincorporated “islands” such as the Rollingwood (San Pablo), Ayers Ranch (Concord) and San Miguel (Walnut Creek) neighborhoods. Renumber the subsequent policies accordingly. The following changes are recommended by staff in response to a comment letter received on April 8, 2024, from the Delta Protection Commission and to clarify content. Page 4-24/Policy LU-P6.1 Ensure that County projects and decisions on private development and land use activities within the Legal Delta are consistent with the following plans: (a) The Land Use and Resource Management Plan for the Primary Zone of the Delta adopted by the Delta Protection Commission. (b) The Delta Plan adopted by the Delta Stewardship Council. In addition, screen proposed General Plan amendments affecting the Primary Zone for consistency with Public Resources Code Section 29763.5, including a specific analysis of consistency with each subsection thereof. Page 4-24/Goal LU-6 New Policy LU-P6.2: Maintain Priority Development Area and Transit-Oriented Community designations in support of Plan Bay Area and other regional planning initiatives sponsored by ABAG/MTC. Renumber the subsequent policies accordingly. The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 4-26/Policy LU-P7.3 Protect residential neighborhoods from incompatible uses and activities that will adversely affect public health and safety. August 21, 2024 | Page 66 Page 4-26/Policy LU-P7.5 Require new residential projects to provide convenient access/connections to public transit, local destinations, and multi-use trails whenever possible. Page 4-26/Goal LU-7 New Action LU-A7.1: Evaluate the appropriateness of amending County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to allow sale of an ADU as a condominium separate from the primary residence, pursuant to AB 1033 and Government Code Section 66342. Renumber the subsequent actions accordingly. Page 4-26/Goal LU-7 Move existing Action LU-A7.1 to instead be Policy LU-P7.3: Maintain objective design standards for residential and mixed-use development to provide a streamlined approval process and ensure architectural compatibility for future infill development. Renumber the subsequent policies accordingly. Move Policy HS-P4.6 to instead be Policy LU-P7.6: In hazard-prone areas, such as slopes exceeding 15 percent, mapped floodplains, High and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones, and Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zones, allow for decreased residential density, including below the minimum density requirement for the applicable land use designation, as the severity of risk increases. Renumber the subsequent policies accordingly. The following change is recommended in response to a joint comment letter received on March 25, 2024, from 350 Contra Costa Action, Sunflower Alliance, Grid Alternatives, Bike East Bay, Contra Costa County Climate Leaders, Greenbelt Alliance, Citizens Climate Lobby, 1000 Grandmothers for Future Generations, Interfaith Climate Action Network, Center for Human Development and East County Community Leaders Network, Climate Reality Bay Area, and Sierra Club. Page 4-27/Policy LU-P8.5 Emphasize the importance of commercial centers as civic gathering places. Whenever feasible, require plans for commercial and mixed-use areas to include safe, well-maintained open spaces, gathering places, and public spaces and amenities that create a strong sense of place. Page 4-28/Policy LU-P9.1 Welcome Actively seek out industries that create living-wage jobs and career advancement opportunities for county residents while minimizing environmental degradation, pollution exposure, hazardous conditions, and adverse public health impacts. The following change is recommended by staff in response to a comment letter received on April 8, 2024, from the Delta Protection Commission. Page 4-30/Policy LU-P10.3 Preserve the rural character of the following areas, which are displayed in Figure LU-5: (a) Alhambra Valley/Briones (b) Tassajara Valley August 21, 2024 | Page 67 (c) Delta Primary Zone (cd) Agricultural Core between Brentwood and Discovery Bay (de) Crockett Hills between Crockett and State Route 4 (ef) Franklin Canyon/State Route 4 corridor between Hercules and Martinez (fg) Bollinger Canyon Road corridor between Las Trampas Regional Wilderness and Crow Canyon Road (gh) Norris Canyon Road corridor between San Ramon and the Alameda County line (hi) Marsh Creek Road corridor between Clayton and Byron Highway (ij) Kirker Pass Road corridor (jk) Morgan Territory Road corridor (kl) Deer Valley Road corridor Pay special attention to potential aesthetic impacts in these areas and ensure such impacts are adequately mitigated. TRANSPORTATION ELEMENT The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Element Organization Reorganize the Element so that the Coordinated Planning section is presented first. This will require edits to the introductory language for the Element, as well as renumbering all goals, policies, and actions. Page 5-5/Policy TR-P1.2 Prioritize expansion of bicycle, micromobility, and pedestrian infrastructure (e.g., Class IV separated bikeways) to address the significant latent demand for these active transportation modes. The following change is recommended in response to a joint comment letter received on March 25, 2024, from 350 Contra Costa Action, Sunflower Alliance, Grid Alternatives, Bike East Bay, Contra Costa County Climate Leaders, Greenbelt Alliance, Citizens Climate Lobby, 1000 Grandmothers for Future Generations, Interfaith Climate Action Network, Center for Human Development and East County Community Leaders Network, Climate Reality Bay Area, and Sierra Club, and to clarify content. Page 5-5/Policy TR-P1.4 Reduce single-occupant vehicle usage and VMT by significantly enhancing the availability and safety of other travel modes through infrastructure investment, policy support (Vision Zero, at a minimum using strategies defined in the TDM Ordinance, and other best practices), and support for public transit. August 21, 2024 | Page 68 The following changes are recommended in response to a comment letter received on April 22, 2024, from the Center for Biological Diversity and by staff to clarify content. Page 5-6/Policy TR-P1.9 Support public transit and Eencourage transit use by advocating for increased funding with enhanced governance, high-frequency service, and supporting expansion of first-mile/last-mile programs, including micromobility. The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 5-6/Policy TR-P1.10 Enhance multimodal access to all transit stops, including local routes as well as passenger and commuter rail stations and ferry terminals, prioritizing stops which serve vulnerable and mobility-impaired populations. Page 5-6/Policy TR-P1.11 Support transitioning all on-road vehicles, including personal vehicles and business, government, and public transit fleets, to electric power from renewable sources or other zero-emission-free fuels. The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 5-6/Policy TR-P1.12 Continue to improve ZEV (including electric bicycle) charging/fueling infrastructure within new development and public rights-of-way, incorporating new technologies whenever possible. The following changes are recommended in response to a joint comment letter received on March 25, 2024, from 350 Contra Costa Action, Sunflower Alliance, Grid Alternatives, Bike East Bay, Contra Costa County Climate Leaders, Greenbelt Alliance, Citizens Climate Lobby, 1000 Grandmothers for Future Generations, Interfaith Climate Action Network, Center for Human Development and East County Community Leaders Network, Climate Reality Bay Area, and Sierra Club, and to clarify content. Page 5-6/Action TR-A1.1 Develop and promote mobility alternatives to single-occupancy vehicles, including but not limited to public transit, micromobility, zero-carbon carbon-free rideshare strategies, and public transit nonmotorized modes. Page 5-6/Action TR-A1.2 Review and update County Ordinance Code Chapter 82-32 – Transportation Demand Management and the County’s Transportation Demand Management Guidelines at least once every five years to incorporate current best practices. Page 5-6/Action TR-A1.5 Conduct a survey of County offices and facilities to identify gaps in public transit and the alternative active transportation network within one mile of County offices and facilities, and pursue funding for projects and August 21, 2024 | Page 69 programs that will fill those gaps and improve the availability of alternative transportation options for County employees. Page 5-7/Action TR-A1.7 Partner with transit providers, cities, and CCTA to develop a countywide transit stop program that takes a holistic approach to transit stop planning and construction. Push for Encourage the program to address right-of-way adequacy (i.e., sufficient space for bus pullouts and amenities), amenities (e.g., shelters, seating, bicycle racks and lockers), and improvements around stops to increase accessibility (e.g., curb ramps, sidewalk widening). Page 5-7/Action TR-A1.12 Update the County Ordinance Code as necessary to support advances in ZEV charging/fueling infrastructure, including for medium- and heavy-duty vehicles. Page 5-7/Action TR-A1.13 Advocate for legislation requiring micromobility and other transportation technology providers to accept responsibility for and mitigate the unique physical, operational, and financial impacts of their services, such as abandoned mobility devices, upon local jurisdictions. Page 5-8/Policy TR-P2.3 Provide or Rrequire new projects to installation of, or provide, energy-efficient street lighting to improve public safety and comfort in urbanized areas. Prioritize installation in Impacted Communities, particularly at parks, transit stops, alleyways, bike and pedestrian paths, trails, and other appropriate high-need areas, consistent with community preferences. The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 5-11/Policy TR-P3.3 Partner with cities, CCTA, and the San Francisco Bay Area Water Emergency Transportation Authority (WETA), and other involved agencies to plan and implement ferry service that benefits unincorporated county residents. Page 5-11/Policy TR-P3.5 Pursue federal regional, State, and federal regional funding to augment locally generated funds to construct and maintain transportation infrastructure. The following change is recommended in response to a joint comment letter received on March 25, 2024, from 350 Contra Costa Action, Sunflower Alliance, Grid Alternatives, Bike East Bay, Contra Costa County Climate Leaders, Greenbelt Alliance, Citizens Climate Lobby, 1000 Grandmothers for Future Generations, Interfaith Climate Action Network, Center for Human Development and East County Community Leaders Network, Climate Reality Bay Area, and Sierra Club. Page 5-11/Action TR-A3.1 Coordinate with Caltrans, neighboring jurisdictions, CCTA, and the Regional Transportation Planning Committees to plan, design, and implement Complete Streets concepts on Routes of Regional Significance. August 21, 2024 | Page 70 The following change is recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 5-14/Policy TR-P4.3 Create connections between unincorporated communities and neighborhoods in unincorporated areas and adjacent jurisdictions to improve multimodal access to local destinations, such as schools, parks, shopping, health services, and workplaces. The following changes are recommended in response to a joint comment letter received on March 25, 2024, from 350 Contra Costa Action, Sunflower Alliance, Grid Alternatives, Bike East Bay, Contra Costa County Climate Leaders, Greenbelt Alliance, Citizens Climate Lobby, 1000 Grandmothers for Future Generations, Interfaith Climate Action Network, Center for Human Development and East County Community Leaders Network, Climate Reality Bay Area, and Sierra Club. Page 5-15/Policy TR-P4.6 Enhance streetscapes in nonresidential areas, making them more pedestrian -friendly and inviting by reducing setback and off-street parking and setback requirements and augmenting traffic-calming measures. Page 5-15/Action TR-A4.1 Update Review the County Standard Plans at least once every five years for relevance and applicability and update on an as-needed basis as necessary to reflect best practices in context sensitivity, cComplete sStreets, travel safety, and environmental sustainability. Page 5-15/Action TR-A4.3 Develop guidance for managing curb space in ways that are sensitive to the land use context, with considerations for freight deliveries, parking, active transportation use, users with limited mobility, transportation network companies, outdoor dining, freight deliveries, parking, and other curb uses that may emerge. The following change is recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 5-19/Active Transportation Local bikeways are classified based on traditional categories recognized by regional federal, State, and federal regional transportation agencies. Each bikeway class is intended to provide bicyclists with safe and convenient riding conditions. Different bikeway designs offer various levels of separation from traffic based on traffic volume, speed, and other factors. There are four bikeway types: • Class I bikeways (bike paths) provide completely separate facilities from automobiles and are designated for the exclusive use of bicyclists and pedestrians with minimal cross-flow automobile traffic. In Contra Costa County, these types of paths are often along creeks, canals, utility corridors, and former rail lines. Class I bikeways are often used for recreational and commute trips. August 21, 2024 | Page 71 The following changes are recommended in response to a comment received at an open house event and a joint comment letter received on March 25, 2024, from 350 Contra Costa Action, Sunflower Alliance, Grid Alternatives, Bike East Bay, Contra Costa County Climate Leaders, Greenbelt Alliance, Citizens Climate Lobby, 1000 Grandmothers for Future Generations, Interfaith Climate Action Network, Center for Human Development and East County Community Leaders Network, Climate Reality Bay Area, and Sierra Club. Page 5-20/Policy TR-P5.4 Ensure that fee programs include active transportation facilities, and require new development to contribute funds, right-of-way, and/or provide active transportation facilities themselves, where feasible. Page 5-20/Policy TR-P5.10 Require generous parking for bicycles and other mobility devices at key destinations, such as shopping centers, parks, schools, workplaces employment centers, transit stations, and multiple-family housing. This parking should be conveniently located near entrances, include charging infrastructure, and accommodate cargo bikes when appropriate for the land use. The following change is recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 5-21/Action TR-A5.3 Periodically rReview the scoring formula for active transportation projects at least once every five years to ensure continued prioritization of projects in Impacted Communities. The following changes and new action are recommended in response to a joint comment letter received on March 25, 2024, from 350 Contra Costa Action, Sunflower Alliance, Grid Alternatives, Bike East Bay, Contra Costa County Climate Leaders, Greenbelt Alliance, Citizens Climate Lobby, 1000 Grandmothers for Future Generations, Interfaith Climate Action Network, Center for Human Development and East County Community Leaders Network, Climate Reality Bay Area, and Sierra Club, and to clarify content. Page 5-21/Goal TR-5 Move Action TR-A5.5 to instead be Policy TR-P5.9 and edit as follows: Consider allowing proposals for temporary and permanent reorientation of public space towards increased outdoor activity, including such as walking, bicycling, rolling, dining, and other social uses. Renumber the subsequent policies accordingly. Page 5-21/Goal TR-5 New Action TR-A5.5: Evaluate the feasibility and appropriateness of the following when updating the ATP and CRIPP: (a) Installing bikeways along all segments of Routes of Regional Significance within the County’s jurisdiction. (b) Restriping arterials and collectors to include bikeways whenever major maintenance occurs. (c) Installing bikeways and sidewalks along arterials and collectors to the limits of adjacent jurisdictions. (d) Installing bicycle detection systems, bicycle signals, bicycle boxes, and pavement markings at new and retrofitted traffic signals. (e) Installing crosswalks at all legs of signalized intersections. August 21, 2024 | Page 72 The following change is recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 5-21/Goal TR-5 See the Public Facilities and Services Element for additional policies and actions related to the countywide trail network. The following new action is recommended in response to a comment letter received on December 4, 2023, from Dick Offerman, Konveio comments received on January 31, 2024, from Dick Offerman, and a joint comment letter received on March 25, 2024, from 350 Contra Costa Action, Sunflower Alliance, Grid Alternatives, Bike East Bay, Contra Costa County Climate Leaders, Greenbelt Alliance, Citizens Climate Lobby, 1000 Grandmothers for Future Generations, Interfaith Climate Action Network, Center for Human Development and East County Community Leaders Network, Climate Reality Bay Area, and Sierra Club. Page 5-27/Goal TR-7 New Action TR-A7.2: Switch to sale of unleaded aviation gasoline at County-owned airports as soon as there is a commercially viable and safe drop-in replacement for leaded fuel. CONSERVATION, OPEN SPACE, AND WORKING LANDS ELEMENT The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 7-1/Introductory text • The Energy Resources section includes policy guidance to conserve energy and support a transition to zero-carbon-free energy sources, such as wind and solar. Page 7-2/Open Space Framework Major open space landowners operating at the local level in Contra Costa County include: The following change is recommended in response to online comments received on April 8, 2024, from Jim Hanson of the California Native Plant Society. Page 7-3/Policy COS-P1.3 Discourage conversion of land designated Resource Conservation or Parks and Recreation to urban uses. If such conversion is to occurs, require mitigation through permanent protection of other open space or park lands for habitat, scenic, or recreation benefits at a ratio to be determined based on the biological, scenic, or recreational value of the land, but not less than 3:1. The following changes are recommended in response to a comment letter received on April 8, 2024, from Friends of Pleasant Hill Creeks. Page 7-3/Action COS-A1.1 Convene an annual staff-level meeting with involved conservation agencies, such as (e.g., the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy, and EBRPD,), land trusts, and conservation groups organizations (land trusts, August 21, 2024 | Page 73 watershed stewardship groups, etc.) to review current and planned efforts to protect and maintain open space and habitat. The following change is recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 7-7/Policy COS-P2.1 Preserve large, contiguous areas of the county for agricultural production. Prohibit Deny applications for projects that would lead to fragmentation of agricultural areas. The following changes are recommended in response to a comment letter received on April 8, 2024, from the Delta Protection Commission. Page 7-8/Goal COS-2 New Policy COS-P2.4: Consult with the Delta Protection Commission to identify mitigation strategies, as relevant, if a change in land use that converts agriculture would significantly affect the sustainability of the Delta agricultural economy. Renumber the subsequent policies accordingly. Page 7-8/Policy COS-P2.4 Require new projects adjacent to agriculture to establish buffers on their properties as necessary to minimize conflicts and protect agriculture. Determine appropriate buffers in consultation with the County Agricultural Commissioner. The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 7-8/Policy COS-P2.11 Support efforts to protect, maintain, and improve soil health as a carbon sequestration tool. Page 7-12/Ecological Resource Areas The East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy oversees implementation of the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservation Plan/Natural Community Conservation Plan (HCP/NCCP), which provides regional conservation and development guidelines to protect natural resources while improving and streamlining the permit process for projects that will impact endangered species and sensitive habitat. During the first 15 years of HCP/NCCP implementation, 42 43 properties were acquired for the Preserve System, totaling over 14,400 acres. All but one of the acquisitions were completed in partnership with EBRPD. The following change is recommended in response to online comments received on April 8, 2024, from Jim Hanson of the California Native Plant Society. Page 7-13/Policy COS-P4.3 Require a biological resources assessment prepared according to State and federal protocols for projects with the potential to impact rare, threatened, endangered, or special-status species or their habitat, and implement appropriate mitigation for identified impacts, preferably near the impact and within the county. August 21, 2024 | Page 74 The following change is recommended in response to a comment letter received on April 8, 2024, from Friends of Pleasant Hill Creeks. Page 7-13/Policy COS-P4.4 Protect habitat and wildlife migration corridors, including natural and channelized creeks providing habitat in urban settings, and support projects that enhance these areas. The following change is recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 7-13/Policy COS-P4.5 Discourage the use of fencing that poses risks to wildlife. The following new policy is recommended in response to a comment letter received on April 8, 2024, from the Delta Protection Commission. Page 7-16/Goal COS-4 New Policy COS-P4.6: Require projects impacting Pacific Flyway habitat in the Delta Primary Zone to incorporate mitigation that ensures no net loss of habitat function, including temporal loss. Impacts to Pacific Flyway habitat will be determined based on best available information at the time of environmental review. Renumber the subsequent policies accordingly. The following new policy is recommended in response to a comment letter received on April 8, 2024, from Friends of Pleasant Hill Creeks. Page 7-16/Goal COS-4 New Policy COS-P4.7: Require projects near sensitive habitat areas to minimize lighting in general and mitigate light pollution by incorporating best practices for wildlife-friendly lighting. Renumber the subsequent policies accordingly. The following changes are recommended in response to online comments received on April 8, 2024, from Jim Hanson of the California Native Plant Society. Page 7-16/Policy COS-P4.6 Require appropriately-timed, comprehensive floristic and vegetation surveys prepared according to State and federal protocols when development is proposed on land with potentially suitable habitat for special-status plant species, sensitive natural plant communities, or locally rare plants, including areas mapped by the California Native Plant Society as Botanical Priority Protection Areas. Page 7-16/Policy COS-P4.7 Require avoidance and protection of sensitive ecological resources not approved for disturbance or removal during project entitlement, and require restitution in exceedance of standard mitigation ratios for deliberate or inadvertent damage to these resources. August 21, 2024 | Page 75 The following changes are recommended in response to a comment letter received on April 8, 2024, from Friends of Pleasant Hill Creeks. Page 7-16/Policy COS-P4.8 Require majority use of California native plant species in landscaping for large landscaped areas in new developments, and require construction practices that avoid spread of invasive plant species by minimizing surface disturbance; seeding and mulching disturbed areas with certified weed-free native mixes; disinfecting/decontaminating equipment; and using native, noninvasive, drought-resistant species in erosion- control plantings. Page 7-16/Policy COS-P4.9 Support preservation, enhancement, and reestablishment of native and sport fisheries and reestablishment of fisheries in streams wherever possible. Assist conservation agencies and organizations with identifying and addressing barriers to fish passage and other challenges to fish survival in natural watercourses. The following new action is recommended in response to a comment letter received on April 22, 2024, from the Center for Biological Diversity and a comment letter received on April 7, 2024, from the Walnut Creek Watershed Council. Page 7-16/Goal COS-4 New Action COS-A4.3: Work with conservation agencies to identify appropriate locations and methods for incorporating wildlife crossings into future road projects. The following changes are recommended in response to a comment letter received on April 7, 2024, from the Walnut Creek Watershed Council and to clarify content. Page 7-17/Header edit and text edits Creeks, Wetlands, Natural Watercourses, and Riparian Areas Contra Costa County hosts abundant aquatic habitat through its in the form of coastal salt and freshwater and coastal salt marshes, mud flats, inland wetlands, creeks and streams, and riparian vegetation. As illustrated oin Figures COS-5 and COS 6, many creeks, streams, and other drainages extend throughout the county and ultimately drain into San Francisco Bay, San Pablo Bay, Suisun Bay, and the Delta. Outside the urbanized parts of the county, creeks and streams tend to be in a natural or mostly undisturbed state, supporting diverse plant and animal life. The riparian ecosystems along creek banks provide permanent homes and migratory pathways for many species, while also offering recreational opportunities for people to connect with nature. Natural cCreeks and other freshwater bodies also store water and help to recharge groundwater basins, which increases resiliency to drought conditions. August 21, 2024 | Page 76 The following change is recommended in response to a comment letter received on April 8, 2024, from Friends of Pleasant Hill Creeks. Page 7-17/Policy COS-P5.1 Support protection, restoration, and enhancement of creeks, wetlands, marshes, sloughs, and tidelands, natural watercourses, and riparian corridors, and emphasize the role of these features in climate change resilience, air and water quality, and wildlife habitat. The following change is recommended in response to a comment letter received on April 8, 2024, from Friends of Pleasant Hill Creeks. Page 7-19/Policy COS-P5.2 Require new public infrastructure and private development projects to preserve, and whenever possible restore and enhance, natural watercourses, floodplains, and riparian habitat. The following new policy is recommended in response to a comment letter received on April 8, 2024, from the Contra Costa Water District. Page 7-19/Goal COS-5 New Policy COS-P5.6: Identify and pursue funding opportunities to acquire, protect, and maintain open space around existing flood control channels to facilitate implementation of the County’s 50-Year Plan “From Channels to Creeks.” Renumber the subsequent policies accordingly. The following new policy is recommended in response to a comment letter received on April 7, 2024, from the Walnut Creek Watershed Council and a comment letter received on April 8, 2024, from Friends of Pleasant Hill Creeks. Page 7-19/Goal COS-5 New Policy COS-P5.7: Work with conservation agencies and organizations to: (a) Increase public awareness about threats to water quality and prepare and implement watershed restoration plans throughout the county. (b) Acquire, protect, restore, and maintain areas adjacent to natural watercourses and riparian corridors. Renumber the subsequent policies accordingly. The following new policy and changes are recommended in response to a comment letter received on April 8, 2024, from Friends of Pleasant Hill Creeks. Page 7-19/Goal COS-5 New Policy COS-P5.8: Discourage ornamental landscaping within setback areas along natural watercourses and require use of California native plant species when revegetating those areas. Renumber the subsequent policies accordingly. August 21, 2024 | Page 77 Page 7-19/Policy COS-P5.6 Require increased setbacks for animal-handling uses whenever necessary to protect natural watercourses, wetlands, riparian habitat, or erosion-prone soils. Setback increases can be applied to all aspects components of the use, such as manure storage or parking areas, and are not limited to buildings and structures. Page 7-19/Policy COS-P5.7 Allow encroachments into required setback areas along natural watercourses and wetlands for the purpose of constructing low-impact public improvements or public-serving amenities, such as footbridges, trails, and nature viewing areas, provided a qualified biologist confirms that the improvements/amenities are compatible with protection of ecological values. Page 7-19/Action COS-A5.1 Inventory wetlands, floodplains, marshlands, natural watercourses, riparian corridors, and adjacent lands that could potentially support climate adaptation (e.g., through flood management, filtration, or other beneficial ecosystem services) and mitigation (e.g., carbon sequestration). The following change is recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 7-20/Action COS-A5.3 Amend the County Ordinance Code Chapter 914-14 – Rights-of-Way and Setbacks to apply make the creek setback requirements for unimproved earth channels applicable in Title 9 – Subdivisions to all projects, including those that are not part of a not just subdivisions. The following new actions are recommended in response to a comment letter received on April 8, 2024, from Friends of Pleasant Hill Creeks. Page 7-20/Goal COS-5 New Action COS-A5.4: With input from watershed stewardship groups, evaluate the setback requirements in County Ordinance Code Chapter 914-14 – Rights-of-Way and Setbacks to determine appropriate setbacks for maximizing the natural function of natural watercourses and allowing for future restoration. New Action COS-A5.5: Review the Contra Costa County Watershed Atlas to determine whether an update is necessary. The following change is recommended in response to online comments received on April 8, 2024, from Jim Hanson of the California Native Plant Society. Page 7-20/Policy COS-P6.1 Preserve natural woodlands and significant trees, particularly mature native species, intact coastal scrub and chaparral, and grasslands, especially those with native grass and wildflower populations. August 21, 2024 | Page 78 The following change is recommended in response to a comment letter received on April 7, 2024, from the Walnut Creek Watershed Council and online comments received on April 8, 2024, from Jim Hanson of the California Native Plant Society. Page 7-20/Policy COS-P6.2 Encourage planting and propagation of California native trees and habitat-supporting native shrubs, forbs, and grasses throughout the county to enhance the natural landscape, provide shade (especially in riparian areas), sustain wildlife, absorb stormwater, and sequester carbon. The following change is recommended in response to a comment letter received on April 7, 2024, from the Walnut Creek Watershed Council. Page 7-20/Policy COS-P6.4 Encourage Support removal of invasive, non-native trees, shrubs, and grassland weeds species, especially those that are ecologically harmful or known to pose threats to public safety. The following change is recommended in response to online comments received on April 8, 2024, from Jim Hanson of the California Native Plant Society. Page 7-21/Policy COS-P6.5 Encourage revegetation with local or regional ecotypes of native species in areas that were previously converted for agriculture but are no longer in production. The following change is recommended in response to online comments received on March 26, 2024, from the Alamo Improvement Association. Page 7-25/Policy COS-A6.1 Update County Ordinance Code Chapter 816-6 – Tree Protection and Preservation, to enhance tree protections and strengthen mitigation requirements/restitution for tree removal commensurate with the benefits the tree provides. The following changes are recommended in response to a comment letter received on April 4, 2024, from the Alameda County Water District and to clarify content. Page 7-25/Goal COS-7 Move Policy COS-P7.1 to instead be Policy COS-P7.6 and make the following text edits: Require new development to reduce potable water consumption through use of water-efficient devices and technology, drought-tolerant landscaping strategies, and treated recycled water, where available. Renumber the remaining policies accordingly. August 21, 2024 | Page 79 The following change is recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 7-25/Policy COS-P7.7 Require landscaping for new development to be drought-tolerant, filter and retain runoff, and support flood management and groundwater recharge. The following change is recommended in response to a comment letter received on April 4, 2024, from the Alameda County Water District. Page 7-27/Policy COS-P7.9 Support wastewater reclamation and reuse programs that maximize use of treated recycled water. Staff recommends deleting the following policy because the concept is included in the recommended new Policy COS-P5.7. Page 7-27/Policy COS-P7.10 Support programs and activities conducted by community watershed groups and volunteers that increase public awareness and encourage stewardship of water resources. The following change is recommended in response to a comment letter received on March 11, 2024, from the Building Trades Council. Page 7-27/Action COS-A7.3 Evaluate the feasibility and necessity of amending the County Ordinance Code to promote rainwater harvesting, installation of dual plumbing (purple pipe), and water reuse. The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 7-29/Policy COS-P9.3 Oppose all efforts to construct an isolated conveyance, (e.g., such as a peripheral canal, or tunnel), or any other water diversion system that reduces Delta water flows unless and until it can be conclusively demonstrated that such a system would protect, preserve, and enhance water quality and fisheries of the San Francisco Bay/Delta estuary system. The following new policy is recommended by staff in response to a comment letter received on April 8, 2024, from the Delta Protection Commission. Page 7-29/Goal COS-9 New Policy COS-P9.4: Work with the Delta Protection Commission to advise agencies undertaking habitat restoration projects within the Delta Primary Zone of their obligation to comply with California Constitution Article XIII D, Section 4, which requires public projects to continue paying benefit assessments unless the project demonstrates that it would not receive relevant services. Renumber the subsequent policies accordingly. August 21, 2024 | Page 80 The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 7-32/Policy COS-P10.7 Require significant historic, archaeological, and paleontological resources to be either preserved onsite or adequately documented as a condition of removal. Any documentation of historic resources shall be conducted in accordance with Historic American Building Survey (HABS) Level III standards, as defined by the US Secretary of the Interior. Page 7-33/Tribal Communities Contra Costa County is in an area where traditional territories of three Native American tribal communities – the Bay Miwok, Northern Valley Delta Yokuts, and Ohlone – converged, as shown in Figure COS-11. Page 7-34/Policy COS-P11.3 Consult with culturally affiliated tribes on General Plan and Specific Plan amendments with potential to impact tribal cultural resources. If an amendment redesignates a tribal cultural resource site on private land for open space purposes, evaluate the appropriateness of developing a treatment and management plan for tribal cultural resources in the affected area. Page 7-35/Policy COS-P11.6 Encourage voluntary landowner efforts to protect tribal cultural resources, including voluntary relinquishment of tribal cultural resources to affiliated tribes. Page 7-38/Policy COS-P12.9 Enable flexibility in the design of projects along scenic routes in scenic corridors and support innovative solutions to protect views and visual quality. The following changes are recommended in response to a comment letter received on February 12, 2024, from the Western States Petroleum Association and to clarify content. Page 7-41/Energy Resources Contra Costa County has long been an energy producer. Coal mining began in the 1850s, as indicated previously. The first petroleum refinery in the Bay Area opened in Rodeo in 1896 and the county has historically been home to a small oil and natural gas production industry. However, energy production in Contra Costa County is evolving as reliance on fossil fuels decreases and the State enacts more aggressive policies to combat climate change. In recent years, the State has, including increased support for a transitioning to cleaner-burning biofuels through investments in technology, infrastructure, and production. Biofuels, including biomethane, biodiesel, and gasoline and diesel fuels derived from renewable sources instead of petroleum, can reduce reliance on traditional fuel sources, improve air quality, and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Embracing the future, Ttwo former petroleum refineries in the county have already begun converteding their operations from refining crude oil to processing cleaner biofuels. August 21, 2024 | Page 81 The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 7-43/Energy Resources The State and Contra Costa County are moving towards reducing or eliminating natural gas use in existing and new buildings and transitioning to a clean energy economy. The County adopted an all-electric building ordinance in 2022, but enforcement was suspended following a federal court ruling in January 2024. requiring that all new residential, retail, office, and hotel buildings use electricity as the sole source of energy for space heating, water heating, cooking appliances, and clothes-drying appliances; natural gas and propane plumbing is prohibited. Later in 2024 the County will consider adopting a replacement ordinance that supports high levels of energy efficiency and low levels of GHG emissions for new construction. The County, and regional utilities, and community choice energy providers also provide rebates and programs to help make homes and businesses more resource efficient through energy audits, building retrofits, and opportunities to transition to a renewable electricity provider. The County continues to pursue opportunities for reducing overall energy use and increasing reliance on renewable sources, such as converting municipal and other wastes to energy resources (e.g., methane). In December 2015 October 2024 the County will consider adopting adopted a its Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP), which the successor to the 2015 Climate Action Plan. The CAAP is the County’s strategic approach to reducing GHG emissions from sources throughout the unincorporated area. The CAAP identifies County programs and actions to decrease energy use, improve energy efficiency, develop renewable energy, reduce vehicle miles traveled, increase multi-modal travel options, expand green infrastructure, reduce waste, and improve the efficiency of government operations. The CAAP also forecasts the County’s GHG emissions and sets reduction targets and strategies. As a document that is integral to implementation of the General Plan, the CAAP was updated in parallel with this and General Plan must remain consistent and compatible. Page 7-43/Goal COS-14 Increased generation of and reliance on renewable, sustainable, and zero-carbon-free energy and reduced energy use. Page 7-43/Policy COS-P14.1 Implement Climate Action and Adaptation Plan strategies to improve energy efficiency and conservation, promote carbon-free energy sources, and reduce energy-related GHG emissions. Page 7-43/Policy COS-P14.2 Partner with State and regional and State agencies (e.g., California Public Utilities Commission, California Energy Commission, and ABAG/MTC) to support energy efficiency and renewable energy planning efforts. Page 7-44/Policy COS-P14.8 Design and construct new County facilities to be zero net zero-net energy to the extent feasible. Page 7-44/Policy COS-P14.10 Delete Policy COS-P14.10, replacing it with Action COS-A14.10 (covered below). Require replacement and new water heaters and space heating and cooling systems to be electric if the building electric panel has sufficient August 21, 2024 | Page 82 capacity in accordance with Bay Area Air Quality Management District Regulation 9, Rule 4, and Regulation 9, Rule 6. The following change is recommended in response to a joint comment letter received on March 25, 2024, from 350 Contra Costa Action, Sunflower Alliance, Grid Alternatives, Bike East Bay, Contra Costa County Climate Leaders, Greenbelt Alliance, Citizens Climate Lobby, 1000 Grandmothers for Future Generations, Interfaith Climate Action Network, Center for Human Development and East County Community Leaders Network, Climate Reality Bay Area, and Sierra Club. Pages 7-44 to 7-45/Action COS-A14.1 Amend County Ordinance Code Chapter 88-14 – Oil and Gas Drilling and Production to: (a) Prohibit new and expanded oil and gas production wells in the following: i. Sensitive ecological areas, such as wetlands and habitat for rare, threatened, endangered, or special-status species. ii. Areas subject to 100-year flood hazards or sea level rise, as shown in Figures HS-2 and HS-6 through HS-9. iii. Areas within 3,200 feet of sensitive receptors or urban land use designations unless project- specific exceptions are granted by the California Department of Conservation, Geologic Energy Management Division. (b) Restrict oil and gas drilling operations to agricultural zoning districts only. (c) Require a land use permit for all new and expanded oil and gas wells. (d) Require a reclamation plan for oil and gas well sites that includes bonding for site clean-up. (e) Include performance standards related to surface water and groundwater quality and quantity, air quality, odors, noise, and aesthetics. In parallel, study the feasibility of amending the County Ordinance Code to prohibit development of new oil and gas wells and phase out existing oil and gas well operations. The following change is recommended in response to a comment letter received on March 11, 2024, from the Building Trades Council. Page 7-45/Action COS-A14.2 Amend County Ordinance Code Division 88 – Special Land Uses to consolidate Chapters 88-3 and 88-30 governing wind energy conversion systems and solar energy facilities, respectively, into a new renewable energy chapter, with added provisions related to microgrids, community solar projects, and battery energy storage systems. Simultaneously review the boundaries of the Solar Energy Generation Combining District to determine whether opportunities exist for increasing solar energy generation without encroaching upon HCP/NCCP priority acquisition areas, aesthetically sensitive areas, or other lands that are inappropriate for solar energy development. The following changes and new action are recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 7-45/Action COS-A14.4 Consider adopting Adopt new or modified reach codes that exceed the California Building Standards Code, as the State updates the Building Code every three years, to require the use of lower-carbon intensive energy August 21, 2024 | Page 83 sources, to achieve higher feasible levels of energy conservation and efficiency performance, and to achieve lower feasible levels of GHG emissions. Page 7-45/Action COS-A14.5 Maintain, update, and publicize County ordinances and programs and enforce the County Ordinance Code Title 7 – Building Regulations amendment requiring new residential buildings, hotels, offices, and retail to be all- electric. more energy efficient, with low levels of GHG emissions. Evaluate the feasibility of including other building types as appropriate. Page 7-46/Action COS-A14.7 Create a detailed County roadmap to convert existing homes and businesses to use low-carbon or zero-carbon- free appliances. The roadmap should include steps to support converting buildings to rely on low-carbon or zero- carbon-free energy using an equitable framework that minimizes the risk of displacement or significant disruptions to existing tenants. Page 7-46/Goal COS-14 New Action COS-A14.10: Provide educational and technical resources to advance the adoption of heat pump water heater and heat pump space heating in buildings in support of BAAQMD Regulation 9, Rule 4, and Regulation 9, Rule 6, which will mandate that replacement and new water heaters (2027 and 2031) and space heaters (2029) are zero NOx. Renumber the subsequent action accordingly. New performance measure recommended in response to a joint comment letter received on March 25, 2024, from 350 Contra Costa Action, Sunflower Alliance, Grid Alternatives, Bike East Bay, Contra Costa County Climate Leaders, Greenbelt Alliance, Citizens Climate Lobby, 1000 Grandmothers for Future Generations, Interfaith Climate Action Network, Center for Human Development and East County Community Leaders Network, Climate Reality Bay Area, and Sierra Club. Page 7-46/Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element Performance Measures • Increased renewable energy generation and storage. PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES ELEMENT The following change is recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 8-6/Action PFS-A2.6 Pursue public-private partnerships that will improve access to reliable, fast, and affordable internet and make digital resources available in Impacted Communities at affordable prices. The following changes are recommended in response to a comment letter received on April 8, 2024, from the Contra Costa Water District and to clarify content. Page 8-8/Water and Wastewater • EBMUD provides treated water to approximately 1.4 million customers people in western Contra Costa County and portions of Central County. EBMUD brings water from the Mokelumne River watershed in August 21, 2024 | Page 84 the Sierra Nevada through three 81-mile aqueducts to the East Bay. Water is stored in a network of reservoirs, including Briones, Lafayette, San Pablo, and San Leandro in Contra Costa and Alameda Counties prior to treatment. • CCWD provides treated and untreated water to approximately 500,000 customers people in the urbanized parts of central and northeastern Contra Costa County that are not serviced by EBMUD, as well as some eastern parts of the county. Customers include municipalities, industrial facilities, businesses, and residences. CCWD’s water is sourced from the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta via the 48-mile Contra Costa Canal. CCWD also stores water at Los Vaqueros Reservoir in East County, southwest of Byron, before it is delivered via the Contra Costa Canal. Properties outside of a water service district rely on individual groundwater wells or private water systems. East Contra Costa Irrigation District and Byron-Bethany Irrigation District also make additional raw water available to properties in East County. The following new policy is recommended in response to a comment letter received on April 8, 2024, from the Contra Costa Water District. Page 8-11/Goal PFS-4 New Policy PFS-P4.8: Partner with water service providers to protect water conveyance infrastructure, such as aqueducts and canals, from encroachment and pollution. The following new policy is recommended in response to a comment letter received on April 8, 2024, from the Delta Protection Commission. Page 8-11/Goal PFS-4 New Policy PFS-P4.9: Deny applications to establish private wastewater treatment facilities within the Delta Primary Zone that would serve areas outside the Primary Zone. The following two new actions and other changes are recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 8-11/Goal PFS-4 New Action PFS-A4.1: Establish a standing drought and water shortage task force to facilitate drought and water shortage preparedness for State small water systems and domestic wells within the County’s jurisdiction. Page 8-11/Goal PFS-4 New Action PFS-A4.2: Develop a plan to address potential drought and water shortage risk, including interim and long-term solutions for State small water systems and domestic wells. Page 8-12/Drainage and Flood Risk Levees are especially important components of the county’s flood control infrastructure. Figure PFS-4 depicts Contra Costa’s levee system, most of which is owned and operated by public agencies such as reclamation districts. Similar to dams, levees hold back water and protect lower-lying areas from inundation. In Contra Costa County, many of these areas are at or below sea level. Levees protect critical infrastructure, including EBMUD’s August 21, 2024 | Page 85 water aqueducts intake and conveyance facilities, highways, railroads, natural gas pipelines and storage facilities fields, and electrical transmission lines, and more as well as thousands of acres of private property. Many levees in the Delta region are unstable; they were constructed over 100 years ago on land that is settling due to subsidence and were not built to provide long-term protection. Since 1980, 27 Delta islands have been partially or completely flooded due to levee failure. Strengthening Delta levees is vitally important to safeguarding the lives and livelihoods of county residents and are equally important components of the county’s flood control infrastructure. In addition to protecting property from flooding, Delta levees form the backbone of the regional road system, ensure the continued existence of Delta towns and communities, and protect habitat for wildlife, including threatened and endangered species. They form a network of channels that entice boaters to explore the Delta and support a longstanding tradition of hunting and fishing. They also carry fresh water to the pumps that supply water to the farmers of the San Joaquin Valley and residents of the Bay Area and Southern California. Local levee-maintaining agencies have managed the financing and ongoing maintenance, rehabilitation, and repair of Delta levees, and have improved levee integrity, reducing overall Delta flood risk. Much remains to be accomplished, however, as Ssea level rise, increased storm frequency and intensity, and higher flows from greater rainfall and less snowfall as a result of climate change will continue to threaten levee stability and effectiveness. The following new policy is recommended in response to a comment letter received on April 8, 2024, from the Delta Protection Commission. Page 8-14/Policy PFS-P5.4 Support material stockpiling and equipment staging for emergency levee repair, especially in the western of Delta levees by:. (a) Consulting with reclamation districts to identify storage sites within the Delta Primary Zone. (b) Denying entitlements to convert identified storage sites to uses that would preclude storage unless the affected reclamation district(s) identify suitable alternative sites or determine sites to be converted are no longer needed. (c) Denying entitlements for mining/extraction uses that would remove from the Primary Zone those materials deemed essential for levee repair. Page 8-14/Goal PFS-5 New Policy PFS-P5.5: Evaluate projects involving water impoundment or conveyance to ensure they will not create a risk of seepage onto adjacent properties. Such projects must conclusively demonstrate that unacceptable seepage will not occur. Renumber the subsequent policies accordingly. The following change is recommended in response to a comment letter received on April 8, 2024, from Friends of Pleasant Hill Creeks. Page 8-14/Policy PFS-P5.5 Encourage new development Require projects with potential to significantly impact natural watercourses to establish or participate in programs that ensure ongoing maintenance of natural the watercourses to maintain their flood carrying capacity and habitat values. August 21, 2024 | Page 86 The following change is recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 8-14/Policy PFS-P5.8 Encourage Work with developers of properties along transit corridors and or in commercial or mixed-use areas to combine their private required C.3/stormwater treatment facilities with green infrastructure on the adjoining street frontage public right-of-way to enhance the value and sizing of these facilities. The following changes are recommended in response to a comment letter received on January 4, 2024, from CALFIRE and follow-up CAL FIRE comments received on July 22, 2024. Page 8-16/Sheriff, Fire, and Emergency Medical Service Fire protection services in unincorporated Contra Costa County are provided by six fire protection districts and three city fire departments that adequately cover the entire county except for Jersey Island, Bradford Island, Quimby Island, Webb Tract, and the Marathon Refinery near Martinez , as shown in Figure PFS-5. All fire protection agencies within the county have signed mutual-aid agreements to provide assistance to neighboring agencies. The firefighting capabilities of these agencies are further augmented by personnel and equipment from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. Page 8-19/Goal PFS-6 New Policy PFS-P6.4: Encourage multi-jurisdictional and mutual-aid disaster response training between all agencies providing emergency services within the county. The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 8-21/Parks and Recreation Whether it is a peaceful nature walk through Carquinez Strait Regional Shoreline, an exciting hike around historic Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve, fishing at a local nearby reservoir, or a fun day out with family and friends at a neighborhood local park, the county offers something for residents of all ages and abilities. Page 8-24/Parks and Recreation • Local parks are indispensable elements of our neighborhoods and communities. They serve as focal points where people can exercise and enjoy leisure time together, and include a variety of amenities such as sports courts, community centers, swimming pools and splash pads, playgrounds, play ballfields, picnic areas, community gardens, and gathering spaces or other amenities. Local parks in unincorporated areas are typically owned and maintained by the County or a special district, such as a recreation and park district or community services district. The local park system is often augmented by similar facilities on school campuses. In some areas, private organizations such as homeowners’ associations maintain parks for their communities, sometimes allowing public access. • Trails are essentially linear parks. They that provide safe connections between residential neighborhoods, parks, schools, and other destinations. Page 8-30/Policy PFS-P8.3 Increase Expand access to diverse, high-quality parks, green spaces, recreational facilities, trails, and natural environments for residents of Impacted Communities, including by facilitating through multiple transportation August 21, 2024 | Page 87 modes. Partner with other agencies and non-governmental organizations to obtain funding, and design and maintain these facilities to offer a safe and comfortable environment for residents users of all ages and abilities. Page 8-30/Policy PFS-P8.5 Whenever possible, rRequire projects subject to the Park Dedication or Park Impact Fee Ordinances to develop parks and recreation amenities listed identified in, or added proposed for addition to, the County’s Park Capital Improvement Plan. Park Impact fees or in-lieu fees should be assessed only when the County determines developer improvements are not feasible. Page 8-30/Policy PFS-P8.6 Support expanded access to recreation opportunities by working with other agencies to co-locate parks and trails with public facilities, such as schools and utility easements, with prioritizing Impacted Communities prioritized. The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 8-33/Schools Post-secondary public education in Contra Costa County is offered at California State University, East Bay – Concord Campus and three community colleges operated by the Contra Costa Community College District: Contra Costa College in San Pablo; Diablo Valley College in Pleasant Hill, with a satellite campus in San Ramon; and Los Medanos College in Pittsburg. HEALTH AND SAFETY ELEMENT The following changes are recommended in response to a joint comment letter received on March 25, 2024, from 350 Contra Costa Action, Sunflower Alliance, Grid Alternatives, Bike East Bay, Contra Costa County Climate Leaders, Greenbelt Alliance, Citizens Climate Lobby, 1000 Grandmothers for Future Generations, Interfaith Climate Action Network, Center for Human Development and East County Community Leaders Network, Climate Reality Bay Area, and Sierra Club. Page 9-4/Policy HS-P1.2 Participate Prioritize participation in emission and exposure reduction, public education, engagement, outreach, and other programs that promote improved air quality, focusing on Impacted Communities. Page 9-4/Policy HS-P1.4 Require new industrial development to locate significant pollution sources as far away at the maximum distance possible from sensitive receptors as possible. Page 9-4/Policy HS-P1.6 Require that any mitigation of air quality impacts occur on-site to the extent feasible to provide the greatest benefit to local residents in neighboring communities most impacted. For mitigation that relies on offsets, require that the offsets be obtained from sources as near to the project site as possible or from sources that would improve air quality in an Impacted Community. If the project site is within or adjacent to an Impacted Community, require offsets/mitigation within that community unless determined infeasible by the County. August 21, 2024 | Page 88 The following change is recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Pages 9-4 to 9-5/Policy HS-P1.8 Require new or expanded commercial and industrial projects exceeding resulting in 25,000 square feet or more of gross habitable floor area, such as warehouses and other large enclosed buildings, to be near zero-emissions (NZE) operations, including the facilities themselves and the associated fleets. Require all necessary measures, such as the following, to achieve NZE near zero emissions: (a) Reduce on-site energy consumption and increase on-site energy generation and energy storage. (b) Provide adequate on-site zero-emission ZE -vehicle-capable parking for all anticipated truck traffic to prevent idling and off-site queuing. (c) Provide electrified loading docks with receptacles allowing plug-in of refrigerated trailers. (d) Use heavy-duty trucks that are model year 2014 or later and expedite a transition to ZE zero-emission trucks by establishing a clear timeline for electrification of trucks as they become commercially available. Ensure contracts with motor carriers include air quality incentives or requirements, such as providing incentives to fleets that meet United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) SmartWay standards or requiring use of ZE zero-emission or near-zero-emission NZE trucks. (e) Use a “clean fleet” of delivery vehicles as they become commercially available, but no later than 2025. (f) Use ZE zero-emission yard equipment, such as forklifts, pallet trucks and jacks, and stackers. (g) Implement practices to control and remove fugitive dust and other contaminants from paved areas. Uses with fewer than five vehicles domiciled on-site are exempt from this policy. The following new policy is recommended in response to a comment letter received on April 22, 2024, from Holland and Knight on behalf of the Committee for Industrial Safety. Page 9-5/Goal HS-1 New Policy HS-P1.7: Encourage modernization projects at existing industrial facilities that support State energy and climate goals and achieve all of the following: (a) Improved community and worker health and safety. (b) Enhanced environmental protection. (c) Significant reductions in emissions of criteria pollutants, TACs, and GHGs. (d) Timely remediation of preexisting and future on- and off-site contamination as a component of the project or through a fully funded work program that restores the site to a condition suitable for commercial or industrial use. Relocate existing policy HS-P1.7 to HS-P1.9 and renumber the subsequent policies accordingly. August 21, 2024 | Page 89 The following new policy is recommended in response to a joint comment letter received on March 25, 2024, from 350 Contra Costa Action, Sunflower Alliance, Grid Alternatives, Bike East Bay, Contra Costa County Climate Leaders, Greenbelt Alliance, Citizens Climate Lobby, 1000 Grandmothers for Future Generations, Interfaith Climate Action Network, Center for Human Development and East County Community Leaders Network, Climate Reality Bay Area, and Sierra Club. Page 9-5/Goal HS-1 New Policy HS-P1.11: Encourage installation of upgraded HVAC systems at schools, childcare centers, and similar uses located proximate to industrial facilities. The following change is recommended in response to a comment letter received on February 28, 2024, from the Contra Costa County Hazardous Materials Commission, as well as a joint comment letter received on March 25, 2024, from 350 Contra Costa Action, Sunflower Alliance, Grid Alternatives, Bike East Bay, Contra Costa County Climate Leaders, Greenbelt Alliance, Citizens Climate Lobby, 1000 Grandmothers for Future Generations, Interfaith Climate Action Network, Center for Human Development and East County Community Leaders Network, Climate Reality Bay Area, and Sierra Club. Page 9-8/Action HS-A2.1 Partner with community members and regulatory agencies such as BAAQMD to conduct data collection and monitoring of pollution exposure, prepare a community-scale plan for reducing and mitigating air pollutant emissions and industrial hazards, such as pipeline risks, accidents, potential water or soil contamination, and impacts to sensitive ecological resources for each Impacted Community, or group of Impacted Communities, as appropriate. Require future projects to demonstrate consistency with those plans. The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Pages 9-9 to 9-10/Greenhouse Gases Scientific consensus is that human activity involving the use of fossil fuels has resulted in an ever-accelerating increase in the concentration of heat-trapping gases, known as GHGs, in Earth’s atmosphere (termed the “greenhouse effect”). In California, communities are now adapting to the resulting climate change stressors: warmer annual average temperatures, changes in precipitation patterns, sea level rise, and a reduction in snowpack. Recognizing the numerous threats posed by climate change, the State has set ambitious GHG emission reduction targets: • Reduce statewide GHG emissions by 40 percent from 1990 levels by 2030. • Reduce statewide GHG emissions by at least 85 percent from 1990 levels by 2045 and be on a path to support statewide carbon neutrality by 2045. To support State efforts related to climate change and its own GHG emissions reduction goals, the County strives for net-carbon neutrality through a gradual conscientious transition to renewable and carbon-free fuels, resource conservation, sustainable practices, and other approaches. The goals, policies, and actions in this section focus on reducing GHG emissions throughout the county. The County’s Climate Action and Adaptation Plan, one of the tools for implementing this General Plan, provides more specific strategies and actions to achieve Contra Costa County’s GHG emission reduction goals. August 21, 2024 | Page 90 Page 9-10/Policy HS-P3.1 Prioritize implementation of the Contra Costa County Climate Action and Adaptation Plan to reduce GHG emissions from community-wide sources and adapt to changing climate conditions. Page 9-10/Policy HS-P3.2 Facilitate carbon-neutral development projects and communities that support a circular economy, net-zero- emission modes of transportation, reliable and renewable energy resources, energy-efficient buildings, zero waste, water efficiency and conservation, green infrastructure, soil conservation, and a system of natural and working lands that support natural carbon sequestration and climate resilience. Page 9-10/Policy HS-P3.3 Require new development projects using the Contra Costa County Climate Action and Adaptation Plan to streamline their environmental review of GHG emissions, as permitted by CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5, to demonstrate consistency with the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan and incorporate applicable GHG reduction and climate change adaptation measures. Pages 9-10 to 9-11/Action HS-A3.1 Update the Contra Costa County Climate Action and Adaptation Plan as needed to maintain consistency with CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5(b), other State and regional guidance, and best practices. Future updates must include: (a) Inventories of GHG emissions in the unincorporated county. (b) GHG reduction targets for 2030 and 2045 at a minimum. (c) Forecasts of GHG emissions for the unincorporated county consistent with growth assumptions of this General Plan. (d) GHG reduction measures and strategies with quantifiable outcomes. (e) Climate adaptation and resilience strategies to ensure the county’s communities can respond to changing climate conditions. (f) An implementation and monitoring program to track the County’s progress toward achievement of the GHG reduction targets. (g) A community and stakeholder engagement program for Climate Action and Adaptation Plan preparation and implementation. Page 9-11/Policy HS-P4.1 Move Policy HS-P4.1 to instead be Policy LU-P2.10 and edit as follows: When considering development proposals and land use changes, treat susceptibility to hazards and threats to health and human life safety as primary considerations. Renumber the subsequent policies accordingly. Page 9-13/Policy HS-P4.6 Move Policy HS-P4.6 to instead be Policy LU-P5.6: In hazard-prone areas, such as slopes exceeding 15 percent, mapped floodplains, High and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones, and Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zones, allow for decreased residential density, including below the minimum density requirement for the applicable land use designation, as the severity of risk increases. August 21, 2024 | Page 91 Page 9-13/Goal HS-4 See the Land Use Element for additional policies and actions related to development in hazard areas . Page 9-21/Goal HS-5 See the Public Facilities and Services Element for policies and actions related to flood hazards and sea level rise; the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element for policies and actions related to floodplain management; the Land Use Element for additional policies and actions related to development in hazard areas; and the Sea Level Rise section of this Element for policies and actions related to adaptive management of rising tides. Page 9-26/Policy HS-P6.3 Delete Policy HS-P6.3, merging it with Policy HS-P9.5 (covered below). Require new industrial development in areas subject to sea-level rise, emergent groundwater flooding, or tsunami inundation to provide plans for prevention and remediation of any contaminant releases induced by these hazards, along with bonds that guarantee remediation plans are implemented. Remediation should meet standards that protect people and the environment in the event of future permanent inundation. Renumber the subsequent policies. Page 9-27/Action HS-A6.3 Coordinate with BCDC, Delta Stewardship Council, Caltrans, cities, and other affected agencies, organizations, and stakeholders to prepare and adopt a community-driven countywide sea level rise adaptation and resilience plan addressing increased flooding and sea level rise that provides unique adaptation options for the entire county shoreline and identifies funding mechanisms for implementation. Use Figures HS -6 through HS-9 or the best-available climate science data to identify where sea level rise hazards are likely to occur and lead efforts to: (a) Maximize awareness and disclosure to property owners and the public. (b) Assess and address impacts to future development, including promoting the Adaptation Pathways model to respond to uncertainty and evolving conditions. (c) Plan for resiliency projects and adaptation measures to protect existing development and infrastructure, emphasizing nature-based solutions. (d) Partner with the Adapting to Rising Tides Program, Delta Stewardship Council, property owners, and community-based organizations to conduct a study of opportunities and costs for shifting development away from areas at risk from inundation. (e) Inform governance, funding, and financing decisions about short-term and long-term resiliency and adaptation projects. (f) Ensure that the disproportionate impacts on vulnerable populations and Impacted Communities are addressed. Page 9-27/Action HS-A6.4 Delete Action HS-A6.4, merging it with Action HS-A6.3 (covered above). Coordinate with the BCDC, Delta Stewardship Council, cities, and other involved agencies and stakeholders to create a joint -powers authority or public-private partnership to develop, fund, and implement relevant, regionally coordinated sea-level rise adaptation measures that leverage the results of Adapting to Rising Tides, Bay Adapt, Delta Adapts, and other studies and programs. Renumber the subsequent actions accordingly. August 21, 2024 | Page 92 Page 9-28/Wildfire Hazards The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) designates lands into responsibility areas based on who is financially responsible for fire protection services. Local Responsibility Areas (LRAs) include areas where local fire protection districts and fire departments are charged with fire protection. State Responsibility Areas (SRAs) include unincorporated areas and State lands where the State/CAL FIRE has financial responsibility for fire protection. CAL FIRE can also provide fire protection services by contract to cities and counties. Contra Costa County has a mutual-aid agreement with CAL FIRE and several Six fire protection districts and three city fire departments provide fire prevention and protection services in the unincorporated that adequately cover the entire county, except for Jersey Island, Bradford Island, Quimby Island, Webb Tract, and the Marathon Refinery near Martinez. with tThe Contra Costa County Fire Protection District covering covers 553 square miles and is by far the largest area local fire protection agency serving the county (see Figure PFS-5 in the Public Facilities and Services Element for a map of fire district service areas). All fire protection agencies within the county have signed mutual-aid agreements to provide assistance to neighboring agencies. Within the responsibility areas, CAL FIRE designates lands within Fire Hazard Severity Zones. CAL FIRE designates lands within SRAs as Moderate, High, and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones; in LRAs, at the time the General Plan was adopted, CAL FIRE only designates land within Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones (with city and county approvals). CAL FIRE is expected to designate Moderate and High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the LRAs in future updates to the Fire Hazard Severity Zone Maps. As shown in Figure HS-10, Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones are mainly in the interior of Contra Costa County, in areas with dense forest, brush, or grassland vegetation and steep terrain that is difficult to access. Wildfires may start in natural areas but can easily spread to developed areas bordering wildlands; this area is called the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) and is mapped in Figure HS-11. Page 9-31/Policy HS-P7.1 Deny applications for new residential subdivisions entitlements for projects creating additional residential units (i.e., units not allowed by-right) in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the LRA or SRA. and dDiscourage residential subdivisions such projects in High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the SRA and discourage them in the LRA unless adequate fire protection services are provided. Page 9-31/Policy HS-P7.2 Require any construction of buildings or infrastructure within a High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone in the LRA or SRA or in the WUI, as shown on Figures HS-10 and HS-11, or in areas that may be designated as the WUI to incorporate fire-safe design features that meet the State Fire Safe Regulations and Fire Hazard Reduction Around Buildings and Structures Regulation for road ingress and egress, fire equipment access, and adequate water supply. Page 9-33/Policy HS-P7.3 Require new development within a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone in the LRA or SRA (as shown on Figure HS-10) or in areas that may be designated as the WUI (as shown on Figure HS-11), or and on a residential parcel with evacuation constraints (as shown on Figure HS-21), to prepare a traffic control plan to ensure that construction equipment or activities do not block roadways or interfere with evacuation plans during the construction period. Work with the appropriate fire protection district to review and approve the traffic control plan prior to issuance of building permits. August 21, 2024 | Page 93 The following changes and new policy are recommended in response to a comment letter received on January 4, 2024, from CALFIRE and to clarify content. Page 9-33/Policy HS-P7.5 Work with property owners within mapped in High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the LRA or SRA, or in areas that may be designated as the WUI, areas to establish and maintain fire breaks and defensible space, vegetation clearance, emergency access roads, water supply and fire flow, signage, and firefighting infrastructure that meets current adopted State, County, or community fire safety standards. Page 9-33/Goal HS-7 New Policy HS-P7.6: Coordinate with Caltrans and other agencies, local fire safe councils, and community organizations to ensure long-term maintenance of fire hazard reduction projects, including community fire breaks and public and private road clearance. Renumber the subsequent policies accordingly. The following changes, new action, and new policy are recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 9-34/Action HS-A7.1 Collaborate Work with local fire safe councils, CAL FIRE Santa Clara Unit, and other fire protection agencies to update and implement the Community Wildfire Protection Plan for Contra Costa County. Page 9-34/Goal HS-7 New Action HS-A7.4: Upon future updates to LRA mapping, as promulgated by CAL FIRE, identify and as necessary adopt a WUI zone. Renumber the subsequent actions accordingly. Page 9-34/Goal HS-7 See the Public Facilities and Services Element for policies and actions related to fire and emergency services and the Land Use Element for additional policies and actions related to development in hazard areas. Page 9-37/Goal HS-8 New Policy HS-P8.5: Provide shade trees or shade structures at parks, plazas, and other outdoor spaces. The following change is recommended in response to a comment letter received on February 28, 2024, from the Contra Costa County Hazardous Materials Commission. Page 9-42/Policy HS-P9.2 Ensure CCHMP staff have an opportunity to review and comment on all development entitlement applications for projects involving use of hazardous materials or hazardous waste regardless of whether a land use permit is required pursuant to County Ordinance Code Chapter 84-63 – Land Use Permits for Development Projects Involving Hazardous Waste or Hazardous Material. August 21, 2024 | Page 94 The following change is recommended in response to a joint comment letter received on March 25, 2024, from 350 Contra Costa Action, Sunflower Alliance, Grid Alternatives, Bike East Bay, Contra Costa County Climate Leaders, Greenbelt Alliance, Citizens Climate Lobby, 1000 Grandmothers for Future Generations, Interfaith Climate Action Network, Center for Human Development and East County Community Leaders Network, Climate Reality Bay Area, and Sierra Club. Page 9-42/Policy HS-P9.5 Require facilities that manage hazardous materials or hazardous waste in stationary or fixed storage tanks and that are in areas at risk of inundation from sea-level rise and flooding to conduct sea-level rise studies to address the risk of hazardous materials release from rising water levels, including rising groundwater. Require these facilities to incorporate best management practices to reduce the risk of release. Require industrial projects involving use, management, or generation of hazardous materials or waste, particularly those utilizing stationary or fixed storage tanks, in areas at risk from sea level rise, surface or emergent groundwater flooding, or tsunami to incorporate best management practices to reduce risk and prepare plans for prevention and remediation of hazardous materials/waste releases resulting from inundation. Remediation plans must meet regulatory standards for protection of people and the environment in the event of permanent inundation and include financial assurances to guarantee implementation. The following changes are recommended in response to a comment letter received on February 28, 2024, from the Contra Costa County Hazardous Materials Commission. Page 9-42/Policy HS-P9.7 Prioritize implementation of safety projects that reduce the risk of hazardous materials transportation accidents along hazardous material transportation corridors in Impacted Communities to address high-risk scenarios. Page 9-43/Policy HS-P9.8 Require applicants for projects in Impacted Communities that involve hazardous materials or hazardous waste to provide clear information in plain language about potential hazards their projects pose to nearby residents communities at the beginning of the review process. Review and verify this information, make it available to residents, and encourage project applicants to host at least one community meeting to discuss potential hazards. The following change is recommended in response to a joint comment letter received on March 25, 2024, from 350 Contra Costa Action, Sunflower Alliance, Grid Alternatives, Bike East Bay, Contra Costa County Climate Leaders, Greenbelt Alliance, Citizens Climate Lobby, 1000 Grandmothers for Future Generations, Interfaith Climate Action Network, Center for Human Development and East County Community Leaders Network, Climate Reality Bay Area, and Sierra Club. Page 9-43/Policy HS-P9.9 Discourage Deny entitlements for construction of new large-scale facilities that treat, store, or dispose of hazardous waste from off-site sources and negatively impact Impacted Communities. August 21, 2024 | Page 95 The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 9-45/Policy HS-P10.3 Require new, modified, or expanded industrial uses involving hazardous materials or wastes to provide sufficient funds, in the form of a cash deposit, surety bond, or other financial instrument acceptable to the County, to guarantee site remediation, including removal of facilities, equipment, and structures, and ensure community safety and site reusability. The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 9-50/Policy HS-P11.1 For projects in areas of known or suspected seismic or other geologic hazards, such as Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zones or Seismic Hazard Zones (areas considered to be at risk of earthquake triggered liquefiable soils, liquefaction or landslides displacement), delineated by the California Geological Survey, and as well as any other areas of steep slopes, or areas of suspected ground failure known to the County, require submittal of a appropriately detailed engineering geologic or geotechnical report investigations. and ensure effective mitigation measures are incorporated into the project design The reports must be compliant with State Guidelines and include: (a) A map showing the outline of any geologic or potentially hazardous soil condition and areas subject to inundation. (b) Recommended means of mitigation of any adverse condition representing a hazard to improvements. (c) Recommendations to assure proper implementation of mitigation measures during construction. Page 9-50/Policy HS-P11.3 Discourage construction of critical facilities and buildings intended for human occupancy in Alquist-Priolo Fault Zones. and encourage earthquake retrofitting Wwhere such development already exists, encourage earthquake retrofitting. If there is no feasible alternative to developing inside the Fault Zone siting critical facilities and buildings intended for human occupancy in the Fault Zones, buildings must be sited, designed, and constructed to withstand the anticipated seismic stresses. Page 9-50/Policy HS-P11.4 Refer geotechnical and soils engineering geologic reports to the County Peer Review Geologist for review and approval whenever necessary evaluation of their adequacy, as required by State Law for projects in State- designated hazard zones. Reports deemed inadequate will require further engineering analysis and revision until the findings/opinions of the Peer Review Geologist have been addressed to the County’s satisfaction. The following change is recommended in response to a comment letter received on January 30, 2024, from Fennemore Wendel law firm and to clarify content. Page 9-50/Policy HS-P11.5 Discourage development on slopes exceeding 15 percent, and prohibit development on slopes exceeding of 265 percent or greater, to avoid slope instability, extensive unnecessary grading, and unnecessary extensive land August 21, 2024 | Page 96 disturbance and facilitate long-term control of erosion and sedimentation. Exceptions may be considered for infrastructure projects and development on existing legal lots where no other feasible building sites exist. Page 9-50/Policy HS-P11.6 New Policy: Require projects to form a Geologic Hazard Abatement District (GHAD) or join an existing GHAD whenever necessary to adequately mitigate anticipated or residual geologic hazards. Renumber the subsequent actions accordingly The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 9-50/Policy HS-P11.6 Do not accept public road dedications or allow construction of private roads on unstable hillsides or in landslide hazard areas unless potential hazards have been mitigated to the County’s satisfaction. All private roads constructed in such areas must be fully compliant with private road standards adopted by the County and fire protection district with jurisdiction. Page 9-50/Goal HS-11 See the Land Use Element for additional policies and actions related to development in hazard areas . The following changes are recommended in response to a comment letter received on January 4, 2024, from CALFIRE and follow-up CAL FIRE comments received on July 22, 2024. Page 9-50/Preparedness, Response, and Recovery Contra Costa County is committed to preservation of life, property, and the environment during emergencies. The County implements its Local Hazard Mitigation Plan, which assesses risks from natural and human -caused hazards, including risks to people and facilities, and identifies mitigation actions to reduce or eliminate hazard risks. The current Local Hazard Mitigation Plan, certified by FEMA, is incorporated into this Health and Safety Element by reference, as permitted by California Government Code Section 65302.6. The County prepared the most recent Multi-Jurisdictional Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) in accordance with the federal Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 and the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) LHMP policy guidance. The County collaborated with local agencies, including 16 incorporated cities and towns and 25 special districts in the Contra Costa County planning area, to prepare the LHMP. Contra Costa County’s LHMP process is one where hazards are identified and profiled, the people and facilities at risk are analyzed, and mitigation actions are developed to reduce or eliminate hazard risk. Implementation of these mitigation actions, which include short - and long-term strategies, involves planning, policy changes, programs, projects, and other activities. Local governments are required to develop a hazard mitigation plan as a condition for receiving certain types of non- emergency disaster assistance. The LHMP and Health and Safety Element address similar issues, but the Health and Safety Element provides a higher-level framework and set of policies that pertain to the long-term safety of the county, while the LHMP focuses on more specific mitigation actions to enable jurisdictions to better protect lives, property, and natural systems. The LHMP, certified by FEMA, is incorporated into the Health and Safety Element by reference, as permitted by California Government Code Section 65302.6, and can be accessed at www.contracosta.ca.gov/4732/General-Plan. August 21, 2024 | Page 97 The following changes are recommended by staff based on new information or to clarify content. Page 9-51/Policy HS-P12.1 Continue implementing the Contra Costa County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan, which was adopted by the Board of Supervisors and certified by FEMA and is incorporated by reference into this Health and Safety Element. Page 9-58/Table HS-3 Replace Table HS-3 with the following table, and change the name to “Maximum Allowable Noise Exposure by Land Use” Land Use Type NOISE LEVEL, DNL (DB) 0-55 56-60 61-65 66-70 71-75 75-80 >81 Residential a, b Urban Residential Infill Schools, Libraries, Hospitals, Religious Institutions, Extended Care Facilities Hotels, Motels Auditoriums, Concert Halls, Amphitheaters Playgrounds, Local Parks Sports Arenas, Outdoor Spectator Sports Golf Courses, Riding Stables, Water Recreation (e.g., water parks), Cemeteries Office, Commercial, and Professional Buildings (i.e., uses that are generally indoors and not noise sensitive) Industrial, Manufacturing, Mining, Utilities, Agriculture Normally Acceptable. Specified land use is satisfactory based on the assumption that any buildings involved are of normal, conventional construction, without any special noise insulation requirements. Conditionally Acceptable. New construction or development should be undertaken only after a detailed analysis of the noise-reduction requirements is made and needed noise insulation features have been included in the design. Unacceptable. New construction or development should not be undertaken. a A DNL of 60 dB or less may not be achievable in all residential areas due to environmental, economic, or aesthetic constraints. One example is small balconies associated with multiple-family housing. In this case, second- and third-story balconies may be difficult to control to the standard. A common outdoor use area that meets the goal can be provided as an alternative. b If the primary noise source is passing trains, the standard for outdoor noise levels in residential areas is a DNL of 70 dB. August 21, 2024 | Page 98 Page 9-60/Policy HS-P14.7 Condition entitlements to limit noise-generating construction activities to the following: (a) Weekdays and non-holidays unless site-specific conditions warrant exceptions. (b) Within 1,000 feet of noise-sensitive uses: 7:308:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (c) Over 1,000 feet from noise-sensitive uses: 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. GLOSSARY Red-lined staff-recommended changes to the glossary are presented in Attachment 1. The majority of these recommended changes are based on new information or to clarify content. The addition of “natural watercourse” to the glossary is based on a comment letter received on April 7, 2024, from the Walnut Creek Watershed Council and a comment letter received on April 8, 2024, from Friends of Pleasant Hill Creeks. APPENDIX A: SUMMARY OF POLICIES AND ACTIONS BY THEME Appendix A presents a summary of policies and actions by theme. The changes to policies and actions throughout the General Plan will also be updated in Appendix A once those changes are approved. APPENDIX B: HEALTH AND SAFETY ELEMENT TECHNICAL APPENDIX The following changes are recommended in response to a comment letter received on January 4, 2024, from CALFIRE. Page B-2/Contra Costa County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan In collaboration with local agencies and special districts, Contra Costa County prepared the most recent LHMP in accordance with the federal Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 and the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) LHMP guidance. Contra Costa County’s LHMP is a plan that assesses hazard vulnerabilities from natural and human-caused hazards, including risk to people and facilities, and identifies mitigation actions to reduce or eliminate hazard risks in the county, including in incorporated cities. Local governments are required to develop a hazard mitigation plan as a condition for receiving certain types of non-emergency disaster assistance. The LHMP and Health and Safety Element address similar issues, but the Health and Safety Element provides a higher-level framework and set of policies that pertain to the safety of the county, while the LHMP focuses on more specific mitigation actions, which are often short term, to enable jurisdictions to better protect lives, property, and natural systems. The current LHMP, certified by FEMA, is incorporated into the Health and Safety Element by reference, as permitted by California Government Code Section 65302.6. The County prepared the most recent Multi-Jurisdictional Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) in accordance with the federal Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 and the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) LHMP policy guidance. The County collaborated with local agencies, including 16 incorporated cities and towns and 25 special districts in the Contra Costa County planning area, to prepare the LHMP. Contra Costa County’s LHMP process is one where hazards are identified and profiled, the people and facilities at risk are analyzed, and mitigation actions are developed to reduce or eliminate hazard risk. Implementation of these mitigation actions, which include short- and long-term strategies, involves planning, policy changes, programs, projects, and other activities. Local governments are required to develop a hazard mitigation plan as a condition for receiving certain types of non-emergency disaster assistance. August 21, 2024 | Page 99 The LHMP and Health and Safety Element address similar issues, but the Health and Safety Element provides a higher-level framework and set of policies that pertain to the long-term safety of the county, while the LHMP focuses on more specific mitigation actions to enable jurisdictions to better protect lives, property, and natural systems. The LHMP, certified by FEMA, is incorporated into the Health and Safety Element by reference, as permitted by California Government Code Section 65302.6, and can be accessed at www.contracosta.ca.gov/4732/General-Plan. Page B-13/Fire Protection Fire protection service is addressed in the Public Facilities and Services Element. Fire protection in unincorporated Contra Costa County is provided by six individual fire protection districts: the Contra Costa Fire Protection District, San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, Moraga-Orinda Fire Protection District, Rodeo- Hercules Fire Protection District, Crockett-Carquinez Fire Protection District, and Kensington Fire Protection District. The incorporated cities of El Cerrito, Pinole, and Richmond provide fire protection services within their boundaries. Six fire protection districts (the Contra Costa Fire Protection District, San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, Moraga-Orinda Fire Protection District, Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District, Crockett- Carquinez Fire Protection District, and Kensington Fire Protection District) and three city fire departments provide fire prevention and protection services that adequately cover the entire county except for Jersey Island, Bradford Island, Quimby Island, Webb Tract, and the Marathon Refinery near Martinez. Other service providers include CAL FIRE and the Federal Fire Department Concord-US Army. MAP FIGURES Staff recommends that the map figures shown in Appendix 2 replace the map figures presented in the October 17, 2023, draft. The majority of these recommended figure edits are based on new information or to clarify content. The recommended update to Figure COS-6 (formerly Figure COS-5), showing watersheds, waterbodies, creeks, and rivers, is based on a comment letter received on April 7, 2024, from the Walnut Creek Watershed Council and a comment letter received on April 8, 2024, from Friends of Pleasant Hill Creeks. Staff-Recommended Changes to the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan In response to comments submitted by community members and other stakeholders and regulatory changes since the release of the Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan 2024 Update, County staff have revised the Climate Action Plan (now called the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan, or CAAP [a suggestion of a public commenter]) to address this input and information. The red-lined CAAP (Public Review Draft #2) is included as Attachment 3 for reference. Staff revised text, figures, and tables throughout the CAAP, including its appendices. The most significant change is that staff have revised Built Environment Strategies BE-1 and BE-2. These strategies previously reflected continued implementation of the County’s all-electric reach code, which was suspended in February 2024. With this revision, these strategies now anticipate a reach code that would allow new buildings to be either all-electric or mixed fuel as long as they achieve a high level of energy performance, consistent with the Board of Supervisors’ direction to County staff on June 4, 2024. Staff have changed the language of these strategies and their action items to reflect this new approach, and have revised the GHG reduction projections from these strategies to anticipate this new reach code coming into effect in January 2025. Staff have inserted language explaining the changes to the reach code and added a new action to reflect the benefits from the all-electric reach code while it was in effect. August 21, 2024 | Page 100 Furthermore, staff have revised the GHG reduction projections for zero-emission vehicles and equipment to better reflect State projections, consistent with modeling in the 2022 Scoping Plan. These changes are reflected in the assumptions disclosed in Appendix B of the CAAP. Staff have also added or revised actions to ensure that CAAP implementation better supports these projections, and made other revisions to the implementing actions to reflect community comments. Such actions include additional education and resources to support implementation of the Bay Area Air Quality Management District’s requirement that water heaters and space- heaters be zero-NOx, improving coordinating with local and regional agencies to implement Complete Streets, prioritizing micromobility strategies for low-income residents, supporting reduced transit fares for some residents, continuing the County’s requirements for increased electric vehicle charging infrastructure in new developments, and clarifying the County’s role in commenting to permitting agencies on ways to reduce the impact of large industrial facilities on nearby communities. As appropriate, staff have also recommended revisions to the policy and action language in the Draft General Plan to reflect these changes to the CAAP strategies, as shown in the previous section. Beyond the strategy quantification and language, staff edited existing text and added additional language to provide additional information, clarify or correct information, and correct minor grammar error. Staff added text to explain why large stationary sources have been excluded from the CAAP. As part of this work, staff have made revisions to how direct access electricity use from large stationary sources is reflected in the CAAP, ensuring that this usage is identified as an informational item separate from other nonresidential electricity use. Staff have added several definitions to the glossary and revised others to provide greater clarification. Similarly, staff have added clarifying language to the CAAP text and tables explaining particular terms and the methods used in some of the calculations, including clarifying language about carbon sequestration and why emissions from strategies that only decrease electricity use or increase renewable energy generation appear to have no GHG reduction benefit in 2045. Staff have revised descriptions of how the CAAP overlaps with and is distinct from the General Plan. Staff have also added a new appendix to the CAAP, Appendix D, which discusses the progress that the County has made in implementing the strategies in the 2015 Climate Action Plan. These changes to the CAAP help to ensure that it remains feasible, technically accurate, and consistent with community goals and priorities. The CAAP continues to put the County on a path to achieving its 2030 and 2045 GHG reduction goals, maintaining the County’s role as a leader on climate action issues and effectively integrating climate action planning with other long-term planning efforts. ATTACHMENT A.1 DRAFT 2045 GENERAL PLAN REVISED GLOSSARY Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary 1 11 GLOSSARY . This glossary defines acronyms and abbreviations used in the General Plan and explains the technical terms used. Definitions come from several sources, including the California Office of Planning and Research; the California Institute for Local Government; and the American Planning Association Glossary of Zoning, Development, and Planning Terms. ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS AAA: Area Agency on Aging (Contra Costa County) AARP: American Association of Retired Persons AB: Assembly Bill ABAG: Association of Bay Area Governments ADA: Americans with Disabilities Act ALUC: Airport Land Use Commission (Contra Costa County) ALUCP: Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Contra Costa County) AQI: Air Quality Index ARPD: Ambrose Recreation and Park District BAAQMD: Bay Area Air Quality Management District BART: Bay Area Rapid Transit BBID: Byron-Bethany Irrigation District BIPOC: Black, Indigenous, and People of Color BOS: Board of Supervisors BSD: Byron Sanitary District BUSD: Byron Union School District CAL FIRE: California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection CAL OES: California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services CAO: County Administrator's Office CAAP: Climate Action and Adaptation Plan CARB: California Air Resources Board CARE: Community Air Risk Evaluation CCCCD: Contra Costa Community College District CCCOE: Contra Costa County Office of Education CCCSD: Central Contra Costa Sanitary District CCCSO: Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office CCCWA: Contra Costa County Water Agency CCCFCWCD: Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District CCCFPD: Contra Costa County Fire Protection District CCFPD: Crockett-Carquinez Fire Protection District CCHS: Contra Costa Health Services Department CCHSHMP: Contra Costa Health Services Hazardous Materials Programs 2 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary CCRCD: Contra Costa Resource Conservation District CCWD: Contra Costa Water District CDPR: California Department of Parks and Recreation CEQA: California Environmental Quality Act CERT: Community Emergency Response Team CHP: California Highway Patrol CIP: Capital Improvement Program CNEL: Community Noise Equivalent Level CoC: Continuum of Care CRCWD: Castle Rock County Water District CSA: County Service Area or Community-Supported Agriculture CSD: Community Services District or Canyon School District CUPA: Certified Unified Program Agency dB: Decibel dBA: A-Weighted Sound Level DCD: Department of Conservation and Development (Contra Costa County) DNL: Day/Night Average Sound Level DOC: Department of Conservation (State) DPC: Delta Protection Commission DTSC: Department of Toxic Substances Control (State) du: Dwelling Unit du/acre: Dwelling Units Per Acre DWD: Diablo Water District DWR: Department of Water Resources (State) EBMUD: East Bay Municipal Utility District EBRPD: East Bay Regional Park District ECCID: East Contra Costa Irrigation District EIR: Environmental Impact Report EMS: Emergency Medical Service EOC: Emergency Operations Center (Contra Costa County) EOP: Emergency Operations Plan (Contra Costa County) EPA: Environmental Protection Agency (US) EV: Electric Vehicle FAR: Floor Area Ratio FEMA: Federal Emergency Management Agency FHSZ: Fire Hazard Severity Zone FIRM: Flood Insurance Rate Map FMMP: Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program GHG: Greenhouse Gas GPA: General Plan Amendment GSA: Groundwater Sustainability Agency GSP: Groundwater Sustainability Plan HCP/NCCP: East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservation Plan/Natural Community Conservation Plan HHW: Household Hazardous Waste HOV: High-Occupancy Vehicle HUB Zone: Historically Underutilized Business Zone Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary 3 I-: Interstate IPM: Integrated Pest Management ISD: Ironhouse Sanitary District JSUSD: John Swett Unified School District KESD: Knightsen Elementary School District KFPD: Kensington Fire Protection District LAFCO: Local Agency Formation Commission LEED: Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Leq: Equivalent Sound Level LHMP Local Hazard Mitigation Plan LOS: Level of Service LUHSD: Liberty Union High School District MAC: Municipal Advisory Council MDUSD: Mt. Diablo Unified School District MOA: Military Operations Area MOFD: Moraga-Orinda Fire District MOTCO: Military Ocean Terminal Concord MOU: Memorandum of Understanding MRA: Mineral Resource Area MTC: Metropolitan Transportation Commission MVSD: Mt. View Sanitary District NAHC: Native American Heritage Commission NFIP: National Flood Insurance Program NHA: National Heritage Area NPDES: National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System NZE: Near-Zero Emissions OES: Office of Emergency Services (Contra Costa County) OSHA: Occupational Safety and Health Administration (US) 4 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary PCA: Priority Conservation Area PDA: Priority Development Area PPA: Priority Production Area PG&E: Pacific Gas and Electric Company CCRCD: Contra Costa Resource Conservation District (Contra Costa County) RHNA: Regional Housing Needs Allocation RHFPD: Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District RSD: Rodeo Sanitary District RTP: Regional Transportation Plan RWQCB: Regional Water Quality Control Board SB: Senate Bill SMARA: Surface Mining and Reclamation Act (State) SMGB: State Mining and Geology Board SOI: Sphere of Influence SR-: State Route SRVFPD: San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District SSD: Stege Sanitary District SWRCB: State Water Resources Control Board TAC: Toxic Air Contaminant TDM: Transportation Demand Management ULL: Urban Limit Line USDA: United States Department of Agriculture USFWS: United States Fish and Wildlife Service USGS: United States Geological Survey VMT: Vehicle Miles Traveled WCCUSD: West Contra Costa Unified School District WCWD: West County Wastewater District ZEV: Zero-Emissions Vehicle TERMINOLOGY Acceptable Risk. A hazard that is deemed a tolerable exposure to danger given the expected benefits. The level of loss, injury, or destruction below which no specific action by local government is deemed necessary other than making the risk known. Different levels of acceptable risk may be assigned according to the potential danger and the critical nature of the threatened structure. The levels may range from “near zero” for nuclear plants and natural gas transmission lines to “moderate” for farm structures and low-intensity warehouse uses. Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU). A dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities and is located on the same lot as, and is subordinate to, a primary residence. ADUs include permanent provisions for living, sleeping, cooking and sanitation. Acreage, Gross. The land area of a development site that exists prior to any dedications for public use, health, and safety purposes. Acreage, Net. The portion of a development site that can actually be built upon, which is the land area remainsing after dedication of ultimateland for public facilities, parks and open space, rights-of-way, and utility easements. for: Exterior boundary streets Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary 5 Floodways Public parks and other open space developed to meet minimum standards required by County ordinance Action. A measure, procedure, or techniqueactivity that helps the County achieve a specific goal. An action is something concrete that can and will be completed. (see “Goal”) Active Transportation Plan. A plan to enhance safety and mode share for active transportation, which comprises any self-propelled, human-powered travel, such as walking and bicycling. Adaptation. Making changes in response to current or anticipated future conditions (such as the increased frequency and intensity of climate-related hazards), usually to reduce harm and take advantage of new opportunities. Adapting to Rising Tides. A program of the San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission to “provide staff support, guidance, tools, and information to help agencies and organizations understand, communicate, and begin to resolve complex climate change issues.”1 Adaptive Capacity. The “combination of the strengths, attributes, and resources available to an individual, community, society, or organization that can be used to prepare for and undertake actions to reduce adverse impacts, moderate harm, or exploit beneficial opportunities.”2 Adverse Impact. A negative consequence for the physical, social, or economic environment resulting from an action or project. 1 Adapting to Rising Tides, “About Us,” https://www.adaptingtorisingtides.org/about/, accessed June 15, 2023. 2 Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, “Annex II: Glossary,” ed. K. J. Mach, S. Planton, and C. von Stechow, in Climate Change 2014: Synthesis Report, ed. Core Agricultural Tourism. A form of Ttourism, also known as agritourism, that involves guests visiting working farms and ranches to observe, and learn aboutsometimes participate in, farming practices and purchase locally grown products. Air Quality Index. An index used by the US Environmental Protection Agency to report daily air quality for five major air pollutants regulated by the Clean Air Act: ground-level ozone, particulate matter, carbon monoxide, sulfersulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide. Archaeological Resource. Material evidence of past human activity found below the surface of ground or water, portions of which may be visible above the surface. Asset. A valued feature of a community that may be harmed by climate change. Assets may include buildings and institutions, infrastructure, community services, ecosystems, and economic drivers. Benefit Assessment District. A financing mechanism established to provide public infrastructure to a defined area. Property owners within the district (i.e., the area that receives the benefit) pay an assessment to cover the cost of constructing and/or maintaining the public facility. Bike Lane (Class II facility). A corridor expressly reserved for exclusive use by bicycles and micromobility devices, existing on a street or roadway in addition to vehicular lanes for used by motorized vehiclesautomobiles. Bicycle lanes are identified by signage and pavement markings. Writing Team, R. K. Pachauri, and L. A. Meyer (Geneva, Switzerland: IPCC, 2014), p. 117–130, https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar5/syr/. 6 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary Bike Path (Class I facility). A paved route, not on a street or roadway, expressly reserved for bicycles and micromobility devices traversing an otherwise unpaved area. Bicycle paths may be parallel to roads but are typically separated from them by landscapingtypically provide travel routes not provided by the road system. Bike Route (Class III facility). A roadwayfacility shared with motoristsautomobiles and identified only by signage. A bBicycle routes haves no pavement markings or lane stripes. Bikeway (Separated) (Class IV facility). A term that encompasses “bike lanes,” “bike paths,” “bike routes,” and “separated bikeways.”A facility for exclusive use by bicycles and micromobility devices that is physically separated from vehicular lanes by islands, curbs, flexible or inflexibleinflexble posts, on- street parking spaces, or other delineators. Buffer. An area established between potentially conflicting land uses, which, depending on the potential impact, may use setbacks, landscaping, or structural barriers such as setbacks or roadsbuildings to minimize the conflict. Building. A type of structure with a roof supported by walls or columns that is permanently or semi-permanently attached to the ground and intended for shelter of people, animals, or property.A habitable structure. (see “Structure”) Building Code. Standards adopted by the State of California governing the construction, alteration, demolition, occupancy, or other use of buildings and structuresused for human habitation. The State regulations are substantially the same as those contained in the most recent editions of the Uniform Building Code, Uniform Housing Code, Uniform Plumbing Code, Uniform Mechanical Code, and the National Electric Code. Local governments may haveadopt stricter standards under certain circumstances. Buildout. Development of land to its full potential, or theoretical capacity, as permitted under current or proposed planning or zoning designations. California Environmental Quality Act. Legislation and corresponding procedural components established in 1970 by the State of California to require environmental review for projects anticipated to result in adverse impacts to the environment. (see “Environmental Impact Report”) Capital Improvement Program. A program that schedules permanent infrastructure improvements, usually forover a minimum period of five years into the future, that fits the needs, priorities, and projected fiscal capability of the local jurisdiction. The program generallytypically is reviewed on an annual basis for conformance to and consistency with the General Plan. Carbon Neutral. Reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to zero, either by entirely eliminating all GHG emissions or by balancing out all remaining GHG emissions through carbon removal practices so that the "net" emissions are zero. Carbon Sequestration. The process of storing carbon dioxide in locations other than the atmosphere, where it cannot contribute to climate change or ocean acidification. For the purposes of this plan, carbon sequestration refers to the storage of atmospheric carbon in vegetation, soils, woody products, and aquatic environments. Carrying Capacity. Used in determining the potential of an area to absorb development: (1) The level of land use, human activity, or development for a specific area that can be permanently accommodated without an irreversible change in the quality of air, water, land, or plant and animal habitats. (2) The upper limits of development beyond which the quality of human life, health, welfare, safety, or community character within an area will be impaired. (3) The maximum level of development allowable under current zoning. (see “Buildout”) Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary 7 Class 1 Soil: Soil with slight limitations that restrict its use for agriculture, as defined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service Land Use Capability Classification. This ranking represents both irrigated and nonirrigatednon-irrigated land, unless otherwise specified as such in the ranking. Class 2 Soil: Soil with moderate limitations that reduce the choice of plants or require moderate conservation practices for agriculture, as defined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service Land Use Capability Classification. This ranking represents both irrigated and non- irrigated land, unless otherwise specified as such in the ranking. Clean Air Refuge. A building with efficient air filtration and improved air quality that is opened to community members during poor air quality days. Climate Change. A change in the state of the climate that can be identified by changes in the mean and/or the variability of its properties, and that persists for an extended period, typically decades or longer. In the context of this plan, this term refers to changes brought on by human activities. Climate Justice. The concept that no group of people should disproportionately bear the burden of climate change impacts or the costs of mitigation and adaptation. Climate Sensitivity. The level to which a species, natural system, community, or government would be affected by changing climate conditions. Community Facilities District. A special district established by a local agency to finance tax-exempt bonds for public services or the planning, design, acquisition, construction, and/or operation of public facilities. Special taxes levied within the district are used to repay the bonds. Community Noise Equivalent Level. A 24-hour energy equivalent level derived from a variety of single-noise events, with weighting factors of 5 and 10 A-weighted decibels (dBA) applied to the evening (7 p.m. to 10 p.m.) and nighttime (10 p.m. to 7 a.m.) periods, respectively, to allow for the greater sensitivity to noise during these hours. Community Resource Centers. Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) facilities that are open to the public during Public Safety Power Shutoff events, offering air-conditioning or heating, ice, restrooms and hand-washing stations, medical equipment charging, device charging, Wi-Fi, bottled water, and snacks. Community-Supported Agriculture. A community of individuals who pledge support to a farm operation so that the farmland becomes, either legally or cooperatively, the community's farm, with the growers and consumers providing mutual support and sharing the risks and benefits of food production. Typically, members or “share-holders” of the farm or garden pledge in advance to cover the anticipated costs of the farm operation and farmer’s salary. Compatible. Capable of existing together without significant conflict or ill effects. Complete Street. A transportation facility that is planned, designed, constructed, operated, and maintained to provide comfortable and convenient mobility, and improve accessibility and connectivity to essential community destinations for all users and abilities, regardless of whether they are traveling as pedestrians, bicyclists, public transportation riders, or drivers. Complete streets are especially attuned to the needs of people walking, using assistive mobility devices, rolling, biking, and riding transit. Conservation. The management and use of natural resources in a sustainable manner. Conservation results in land and water areas that are durably protected and managed to sustain functional ecosystems, bothwhether intact and restored, and the diversity of life they support. 8 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary Conserve. To manage natural resources sustainably. County Service Area. A special district in an unincorporated area formed to fund a public service that the County would not otherwise be able to fund through traditional sources, like property or sales tax. County Service Areas are governed by the County Board of Supervisors and funded by a direct assessment paid by property owners who benefit from the services provided. Critical Facility. A facility whose continued functioning is necessary to maintain public health and safety following a disaster, and where damage or failure could pose hazards to life and property well beyond their immediate vicinity. Examples include hospitals, fire stations, and water treatment plants. Cultural Resource. A historic, archaeological, tribal, or paleontological resource or human remains. Cultural resources include tribal cultural resources, as defined in California Public Resources Code Section 21074, regardless of whether a tribe is federally recognized. Cumulative Impact. As used in CEQA, the total environmental impact resulting from the accumulated impacts of individual projects or programs over time. Decibel. A unit used to express the relative intensity of a sound as it is heard by the human ear. The lowest volume a normal ear can detect under laboratory conditions is 0 decibel (dB), the threshold of human hearing. Since the decibel scale is logarithmic, 10 decibels are 10 times more intense, and 20 decibels are 100 times more intense, than 1 db. dBA. The “A-weighted” scale for measuring sound in decibels, which weighs or reduces the effects of low and high frequencies to simulate human hearing. Every increase of 10 dBA doubles the perceived loudness, even though the noise is actually 10 times more intense. Dedication. The turning over by an owner or developerTransfer of private land for public use, and the acceptance of land for such use by the governmental agency having jurisdiction over the public function for which it will be used. Dedications for roads, parks, school sites, or other public uses are often required by a citiesy orand countiesy as conditions for approval of a development. (see “In-Lieu Fee”) Density. The number of permanent residential dwelling units per acre of land (du/acre). Densities specified in this General Plan are expressed in dwelling units per net acreage, which excludes any land dedications, and not per gross acre. (see “Acreage, Gross,” and “Acreage, Net,” and “Dedication”) Development Review; Design Review. The comprehensive evaluation of a development and its impact on neighboring properties and the community as a whole, from the standpoint of site and landscape design, architecture, materials, colors, lighting, and signs, in accordance with a set of adopted criteria and standards. Development. The physical extension and/or construction of non-farm land uses. Development activities include subdivision of land; construction or alteration of buildings, structures, roads, utilities, and other facilities; installation of septic systems; grading; deposit of refuse, debris, or fill materials; and clearing of natural vegetative cover (with the exception of agricultural activities). The construction of a single-family home on an existing lot, and rRoutine repair and maintenance activities, are not considered development. Disabled Person. A person determined to have a physical impairment or mental disorder, which is expected to be of a long, continued, or indefinite duration and is of such a nature that the person’s ability to live independently could be improved by more suitable housing conditions. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary 9 Duplex. A free-standing housebuilding divided into two separate living units or residences, usually having separate entrances. Duplexes are not synonymoussynonomous with ADUs. Dwelling Unit. The place of customary aboderesidence of a person or household, which is either considered to be real property under State law or cannot be easily moved. Ecologically Significant Resource Area. Land containing unique, representative, and/or sensitive habitats, communities, or ecological processes. Ecosystem. An interacting system formed by a biotic community and its physical environment. Emergency Shelter. A facility that provides immediate short-term housing and supplemental services for homeless people. Supplemental services may include food, counseling, and access to other programs. Enhanced Infrastructure Financing Districts. An economic development district that uses local property taxes to fund public and private projects that provide a benefit to the district. The district obtains funding for community projects through incremental tax. Tax increment financing works by “freezing tax revenues from a tax rate area in the interim base year and diverting forecasted tax revenue in future years (known as increment) to pay for improvements and/or pay back bonds.”3 Environmental Impact Report (EIR). A comprehensive study required pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act that assesses all the environmental characteristics of an area, determines what effects or impacts will result if the area is altered or disturbed by a proposed action, and 3 State of California, “Enhanced Infrastructure Financing Districts (EIFDs),” https://opzones.ca.gov/enhanced-infrastructure-financing-districts-eifds/, accessed June 15, 2023. identifies alternatives or other measures to avoid or reduce those impacts. (see “California Environmental Quality Act”) Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG). The iImplementation of a governance structure and reporting system that evaluates a company's performance related to environmental and social factors that go beyond the company’s duty to maximize profits. Environmental metrics may include how well a company performs related to conserving energy, water, and other natural resources; protecting ecosystems and biodiversity; reducing carbon emissions; mitigating climate change; and promoting resilience. Social metrics include factors such as whether a company is union-friendly, provides fair pay and leave, prioritizes worker health and safety, and proactively seeks a diverse workforce. Governance refers to how the company manages both the environmental and social aspects of its policies, programs, and reporting. Equity. The state in which each individual or group is allocated the resources needed to reach an equal outcome. Evacuation Route. A roadway designated in the General Plan or a disaster/ emergency planning document as a potential recommended route to travel when evacuating from a hazardous condition. Explosive. Any substance or combination of substances, the primary purpose of which is detonation or rapid combustion. (California Health and Safety Code) Exposure. The presence of people, infrastructure, natural systems, and economic, cultural, and social resources in areas that are subject to harm. 10 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary Extreme Event. When a weather or climate variable exceeds the upper or lower thresholds of its observed range. Extreme Heat. Temperatures that are hotter than 98 percent of the historical high temperatures for the area, as measured between the months of April and October during the period between 1961 and 1990. AcrossFor Contra Costa County, the extreme heat threshold is 96.6 degrees Fahrenheit (°F), although it varies from 87.1°F in Kensington to 102.4°F in Byron. Farmers Market. A mobile or non-mobile market: (1) operated by a local government agency, one or more certified producers, or a nonprofit organization; (2) certified by and operating in a location approved by the County Agricultural Commissioner; and (3) where farmers s ell directly to consumers agricultural products or processed products made from agricultural products (also known as “value-added products”) that the farmers grow themselves. Fault. A fracture or zone of fractures in the eEarth’s crust that forms a boundary between rock masses that have shifted. Fee, Impact. A fee charged to a developer by a jurisdiction according to the proposed development project, typically by number of units, square footage, or acreage. The fee is often used to offset costs incurred by the agency for services and infrastructure such as schools, roads, police and fire protection, and parks. Fee, In-Lieu. Payments that may be required of a property owner or developer as a substitute for a dedication of land for public use or construction of a public facility, usually calculated in dollars per lot, unit, or square foot. Also referred to as in -lieu contributions. (see “Dedication”) Fire Hazard Severity Zone. An area of significant fire hazard based on fuels, terrain, weather, and other relevant hazards. There are three levels of severity for these zones: Moderate, High, and Very High. CAL FIRE designates these zones, and local fire protection agencies may expand these zones or increase their severity within areas where they have responsibility for fire protection services (i.e., Local Responsibility Areas). Flood, 100-Year. In any given year, a flood that has a 1 percent likelihood (a 1 in 100 chance) of occurring, and is recognized as a standard for acceptable risk. Also known as the “base flood.” Flood, 200-Year. In any given year, a flood that has a 0.5 percent likelihood (a 1 in 200 chance) of occurring. Senate Bill 5 requires a 200-year level of flood protection for urban communities in the Central Valley. Flood, 500-Year. In any given year, a flood that has a 0.2 percent likelihood (a 1 in 500 chance) of occurring. Floodplain. The relatively level land area on either side of the banks of a streamadjacent to a natural watercourse that is regularly subject to flooding. Floodway. The part of the floodplain capable of conveying the 100-year flood with no more than a 1-foot rise in water. The floodway includes the river channelnatural watercourse itself and adjacent land areas. Floor Area Ratio (FAR). The gross floor area of a building in square feet divided by gross land area, expressed as a decimal number. For example, a 60,000-square-foot building on a 120,000-square-foot parcel would have a floor area ratio of 0.50. The FAR is used in calculating the building intensity of nonresidential development. Garden, Demonstration or Educational. Gardens operated by community organizations or educational institutions to serve an educational function, such as teaching school children about vegetables or agriculture, or assisting property owners with drought-tolerant or fire-resistant landscaping choices. Gateway. A unique transition point in topography or land use that serves as an entrance to a region of the county or an individual community. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary 11 General Plan. A compendium of County policies regarding its long-term development, in the form of maps and accompanying text. The General Plan is a legal document required of each local agency by the State of California Government Code Section 65301 and adopted by the Board of Supervisors. Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Inventory. A quantified list of a community’s GHG emissions and sources. Gleaning. Food recovery through collecting or harvesting of otherwise unused food for distribution to those in need. Goal. A description of the general desired result sought by the County. Each goal has one or more policies and/or actions associated with the goal. (see “Policy” and “Action”) Graywater. Untreated wastewater that has not been affected by infectious, contaminated, or unhealthy bodily wastes and does not present a threat from contamination by unhealthful processing, manufacturing, or operating wastes. Green Benefit District. A special district that provides additional maintenance and capital improvements for a variety of neighborhood enhancements, such as parks and open space, beautification, and sidewalks, beyond what is already provided by the local agency. Green Benefit Districts are funded by a direct assessment paid by property owners who benefit from the services provided. Green Infrastructure. Stormwater management systems that filter and absorb stormwater where it falls. These systems use plants, soil, and stormwater capture and reuse to store, infiltrate, or evapotranspirate stormwater and reduce flows to wastewater systems or surface waters. Greenhouse Gas (GHG). A gas that allows sunlight to pass through but reflects heat radiated from the earth’s surface, trapping heat in the lower atmosphere. Common GHGs include water vapor, carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O). They may be emitted by natural or human processes. Groundwater. Water that exists beneath the earth’s surface, typically found between saturated soils and rock, and is used to supply wells and springs. Growth Management. Ensuring that future residential, business, and commercial, and industrial growth pays for the facilities required to meet the demands resulting from that growth. Habitat. The physical location or type of environment in which an organism or biological population lives or occurs. Hazard. An event or physical condition that has the potential to cause fatalities, injuries, property damage, infrastructure damage, agricultural losses, damage to the environment, interruption of business, or other types of harm or loss. Hazard Mitigation. Sustained action taken to reduce or eliminate the long- term risk to human life and property, by means of efforts through actions that reduce hazards, exposure, and vulnerability. Hazardous Material, Hazardous Waste: A substance or waste that, because of its physical, chemical, or other characteristics, may pose a risk of endangering human health or safety or of degrading the environment. This does not include household hazardous waste, universal waste, or electronic waste, as they do not contain the quantity, concentration, and/or types of productscompounds significant enough to pose a substantial risk to human health and safety or to the environment. Hazardous Waste Facility. All contiguous land and structures, or other appurtenances, and improvements on land used for the treatment, transfer, storage, resource recovery, disposal, or recycling of hazardous waste that 12 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary require a Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) permit for treatment, storage, and disposal facilities (i.e., treatment, storage, and disposal facility [TSDF] permit). Health Equity. The state in which everyone has a fair and just opportunity to attain their highest level of health.4 Heat Wave. An weather event with five extreme heat days in a row. Household. All persons occupying one dwelling unit. Persons comprising a household need not be related. HUB Zone. A program that helps small businesses gain preferential access to federal supportive services and opportunities. Impact, Climate. The effects (especially the negative effects) of a hazard or other condition associated with climate change. Impact Fee. A fee charged to a developer by a jurisdiction according to the proposed development project, typically by number of units, square footage, or acreage. The fee is often used to offset costs incurred by the municipality for services and infrastructure such as schools, roads, police and fire services, and parks. Impacted Community. An area, typically low-income, that is disproportionately affected by environmental pollution and other hazards that can lead to negative health effects, exposure, or environmental degradation. This is the term Contra Costa County uses in place of “disadvantaged communities,” as named in Senate Bill (SB) 1000. SB 1000 defines disadvantaged communities per Health and Safety Code Section 39711, specifying CalEnviroScreen as the primary screening method for identifying these communities. In this General Plan, Census tracts with a 4 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Health Equity,” https://www.cdc.gov/healthequity/whatis/index.html#:~:text=Health%20equity%2 cumulative CalEnviroScreen score of 72 or higher are considered to beidentified as Impacted Communities. Impervious Surface. Surface through which water cannot penetrate, such as a roof, road, sidewalk, or paved parking lot. The amount of impervious surface increases with development and establishes the need for drainage facilities to carry the increased runoff. Implementation. Actions, procedures, programs, or techniques that carry out a plan. Infill Development. Development that occurs on vacant or underutilized land within areas that are already largely developed. In-Lieu Fee. Cash payments that may be required of an owner or developer as a substitute for a dedication of land for public use, usually calculated in dollars per lot, and referred to as in-lieu fees or in-lieu contributions. (see “Dedication”) Land Use. The occupation or use of an area of land for any human activity or purpose. Land Use Designation. One particular category in aA land classification series of appropriate use of properties established by the General Plan Land Use Element that broadly determines the types and intensities of land uses that may exist on a given property. Land Use Permit. TheA discretionary, andusually conditional, review of anpermit issued to allow specific buildings or activitiesy, or function or operation on a site or in a building or facilityat a specific location. Review of a 0is%20the%20state,health%20and%20health%20care%3B%20and , accessed June 15, 2023. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary 13 land use permit application typically focuses on assessing the environmental impacts of a proposed land use and its compatibility with its surroundings. Landslide. Movement of soil and/or rock down a slope, which typically occurs during an earthquake or following heavy rainfall. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED). A voluntary, consensus-based national standard for developing and rating high- performance, sustainable “green” buildings. LEED provides a complete framework for assessing building performance and meeting sustainability goals, such as water savings, energy-efficiency, materials selection, and indoor environmental quality. LEED standards are currently available or under development for new commercial construction and major renovation projects, existing building operations, commercial interiors projects, core and shell projects, and homes. Leq, Equivalent Sound Level. The average of sound energy occurring over a specified period. The Leq is equivalent to the same average acoustical energy as the time-varying sound that actually occurs during a specified period. Level of Service (Traffic). A scale that measures the amount of traffic that a roadway or intersection can accommodate, based on such factors as maneuverability, driver dissatisfaction, and delay. Liquefaction. The transformation of loose, wet soil from a solid to a liquid state, often as a result of ground shaking during an earthquake. Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO). A five- or seven-member commission within each county that reviews and evaluates all proposals for formation of special districts, incorporation of cities, annexation to special districts or cities, consolidation of districts, and merger of districts with cities. Each county’s LAFCO is empowered to approve, disapprove, or conditionally approve such proposals. Local Responsibility Area (LRA). Areas where a local government, such as a city, county, or district, has the primary financial responsibility of preventing and suppressing fires. (California Fire Code Section 4902.1) Major Project. A General Plan amendment, or rezoning to increase intensity of use, major subdivisionresidential development exceeding 30 units, or nonresidential development of 25,000 square feet or more, or a project requiring a land use permit pursuant to the Industrial Safety Ordinance. (see “Subdivision, Major”) Micromobility/Microtransit. Transportation via small, lightweight vehicles operated by the driver, such as electric scooters and bicycles. Vehicles typically do not exceed 15 miles per hour and are often available for rent for short-range travel within a defined area. Military Operations Areas. A three-dimensional airspace designated for military training and transport activities that hasve a defined floor (minimum altitude) and ceiling (maximum altitude). Mitigation. Modification to avoid, reduce, minimize, or eliminate a negative impact. There are various types of mitigation, including environmental impact mitigation, hazard mitigation, GHG emissions mitigation, and more. Mixed Use. Any mixture of land uses, including mixtures of residences with commercial, offices with retail, or visitor accommodation with offices and retail. As distinguished from a single-use land use designation or zone, mixed use refers to an authorized variety of uses for buildings and structures in a particular area.A type of development that combines different land uses, such as residential and commericial uses, within the same building (vertical mixed use) or site (horizontal mixed use). Mobile Home. A structure, transportable in one or more sections, built on a permanent chassis and designed for use as a single-family dwelling unit and which: (1) has a minimum of 400 square feet of living space; (2) has a 14 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary minimum width in excess of 102 inches; (3) is connected to all available permanent utilities; and (4) is tied down (a) to a permanent foundation on a lot either owned or leased by the homeowner or (b) is set on piers, with wheels removed and skirted, in a mobile home park. Mobile Home Park. Any area of land or property that has at least two mobile homes and/or lots that are held out for rent or lease for non -transient useA parcel of land under one owner that has been planned and improved for the placement of two or more mobile homes for rental purposes for nontransient use. Mode Share. The percentage of travelers using a certain type of transportation, such as walking, biking, taking transit, or driving a vehicle. Municipality. An incorporated city or town. Mutual-Aid Agreement. An agreement between two or more agencies to provide resources, facilities, and services in the event of a disaster or other emergency in the event thatif the affected agency does not have the capability to adequately respond to the emergency with its own means. Natural Watercourse. A naturally occurring body of water, such as a river, creek, or stream, flowing in a natural or artificial channel. Does not include canals, irrigation ditches, or similar structures built to convey water to or from a natural watercourse or other water body. Natural and Working Lands. Lands not covered by buildings or structures, including forests, grasslands, shrublands, woodlands, rangelands, farmlands, wetlands, coastal areas, and the green spaces in urban and built environments. These lands provide food and fiber, clean air, water, and other resources and benefits. Near Zero-Emissions Vehicle. A building, vehicle, or other typeie of operation that uses zero-emission technologies, enables technologies that provide a pathway to zero-emissions operations, or incorporates other technologies that significantly reduce criteria pollutants, toxic air contaminants, and GHG emissions. (California Health and Safety Code Section 44258(c)) Neighborhood. Relatively largeA residential areas that have somedefined by commonshared characteristics, such as a common history, common physical characteristicsappearance (e.g., development pattern, architectural style, etc.), a common meeting placefacilities such as schools and parks, or more intangible characteristics (e.g., a psychological sense of place or cohesion), or clear physical boundaries (e.g.,like waterways or major roads). Neighborhood Kitchen. A shared, commercial-scale kitchen space that is organized by a neighborhood or community group to facilitate safe food production by community members, such as for soup kitchens, community events, or small-scale cottage food industry operations. Neighborhood-Serving Retail Use. A small-scale business providing goods and services necessary for the day-to-day maintenance of a household (e.g., butchers or bakerscorner markets, dry cleaners, coffee shops). Noise Contours. A lLines superimposed on a map connecting points of equalthat indicate various levels of average noise levelexposure as measured on the same scale. Noise-Sensitive Use. A location where people reside or where the presence of unwanted sound could adversely affect the use of land, such as residences, schools, and hospitals. Non-Conforming Use, Legal. A use that was valid when brought into existenceestablished legally, but no longer permitted by laterdoes not conform to subsequently adopted regulations. “Non-conforming use” is a generic term and includes: (1) non-conforming structures (because their size, type of construction, location on land, or proximity to other structures is no longer permitted); (2) non-conforming use of a conforming building; (3) non- Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary 15 conforming use of a non-conforming building; and (4) non-conforming use of land. Any use lawfully existing on any piece of property that is inconsistent with a new or amended General Plan, and that in turn is a violation of a Zoning Ordinance amendment subsequently adopted in conformance with the General Plan, will be a non-conforming use. Typically, non-conforming uses are permitted to continue, subject to certain restrictions. Non-Essential Idling. Operation of a vehicle while it is stationary when none of the following circumstances are met: the vehicle is stuck in traffic; idling is necessary to inspect or service the vehicle; the vehicle is transferring power via a power-takeoff device; the vehicle can’t move due to adverse weather conditions or mechanical failure; the vehicle is a bus with passengers on board. See California Code of Regulations, Title 13, Section 2485 for a full definition. Offsets (emissions). Banked air emission reduction credits that compensate for cumulative increases in air emissions, as defined by BAAQMD Regulation 2 Rule 4. On-Site Wastewater Treatment System. A multi-stage system that collects, treats, and disperses wastewater generated on an individual site. On -site wastewater treatment systems typically include a septic tank and disposal (leach) field. Protected Open Space. Natural habitat and other open spaceundeveloped areas that are usually protected from development by ownership, deed restrictions, conservation easements, land dedications, and/or or other techniques. Opportunity Zone. Economically distressed communities that have experienced a lack of investment for decades, defined by the federal government by Census tract. These areas may qualify for preferential tax treatment on new investments to incentivize investment in the commun ity. Overlay. A land use or zoning designation that modifies the basic underlying designation or designations in some specific manner, usually by applying supplemental regulations. Parcel. A unit of real property, commonly referred to as a “lot.,” or contiguous group of lots, in single ownership or under single control, usually considered a unit for purposes of development.Differs from an Assessor’s parcel in that the latter is delineated by the County Assessor’s Office solely for the purpose of assessing property taxes on a given area of land. Planned Unit Development (PUD). A description of a proposed unified development, consisting at a minimum of a map and adopted ordinance setting forth the governing regulations, and the location and phasing of all proposed uses and improvements to be included in the development.A development approach that uses flexible zoning regulations to create projects that would otherwise be impermissible under standard zoning. PUDs often incorporate nontraditional development patterns and different types of residential buildings, and may include commericial, recreational, or public use components. Pocket Park. A small park, typically less than a quarter acre in size. Policy. A specific statement that guides decision making as the County works to achieve a goal. Policies represent statements of County regulation and set the standards used by decision makers when considering proposed development and actions. A policy is ongoing and requires no further action (see “Goal”). Protected Open Space. Natural habitat and other open space areas that are protected from development by ownership, deed restrictions, conservation easements, land dedications, and/or or other techniques. Reach Code. A local municipalbuilding code that exceeds the State Building Code requirements. A reach code must be at least as stringent as the State 16 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary Code, cost-effective, approved by the California Energy Commission, and updated and re-adoptedapproved with each State Energy Code update. Remediation. Restoration of contaminated areas to protect human health and the environment. Resilience. The capacity of any entity—an individual, community, organization, or natural system—to prepare for disruptions, recover from shocks and stresses, and adapt and grow from a disruptive experience. Community resilience is the ability of communities to with stand, recover, and learn from past disasters to strengthen future response and recovery efforts. Resilience Center. A well-used community-serving facility with year-round programming that also provides local communities with shelter, water, and electricity during hazardous events or disasters. Riparian. A habitat and vegetation zone that is associated with the banks and floodplains of a river, stream, or lake. Riparian trees and shrubs are typically phreatophytes, plants whose root systems are in constant contact with groundwater. Risk. The potential for damage or loss created by the interaction of hazards with assets such as buildings, infrastructure, or natural and cultural resources. Safe Routes to Schools (SRTS). Pedestrian and bicycling routes that provide safe access to and from schools.Federal, State, and local programs that promote walking and bicycling to school through infrastructure improvements, safety education, enforcement, and incentives. Scenic Corridor. Land that is visible from, adjacent to, and outside a roadway right-of-way, and is made up primarily of scenic and natural features. Topography, vegetation, viewing distance, and/or jurisdictional lines determine the corridor boundaries. Sea- Level Rise. The worldwide average rise in mean sea level, which may be due to a number of different causes, such as the thermal expansion of sea water and the addition of water to the oceans from the melting of glaciers, ice caps, and ice sheets. Seniors. People 65 years of age or older. Sensitive Receptor. A use that is highly sensitive to impacts from other uses, including homes, schools, playgrounds, sports fields, childcare centers, senior centers, hospitals, and long-term health care facilities. Sensitivity. The level to which a species, natural system, community, or government would be affected by changing climate conditions. Separated Bikeway (Class IV facility). A bikeway for the exclusive use of bicycles that are physically separated from vehicle traffic. (Also called cycle tracks and protected bikeways.) (see also “Bikeway”) Severe Ground Shaking. Intense ground movement resulting from the transmission of seismic waves during an earthquake. Social Vulnerability. The susceptibility of a given population to harm from exposure to a hazard, directly affecting its ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover. Specific Plan. Under Article 8 of the Government Code (Section 65450 et seq.), a legal tool for detailed design and implementation of a defined portion of the area covered by a General Plan. A specific plan may include all detailed regulations, conditions, programs, and/or proposed legislation that may be necessary or convenient for the systematic implementation of any General Plan element(s). Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary 17 Sphere of Influence (SOI). The probablepotential ultimate physical boundaries and service area of a municipality or special district, as determined by the Local Agency Formation Commission of the county . The SOIs for cities and towns include unincorporated land that could be annexed. State Responsibility Area (SRA). The area where the State of California has primary financial responsibility for the prevention and response to wildland fires as delineated on maps prepared by the State Fire Marshall. Stationary Source. A fixed, non-mobile source of air pollution or noise. Strip commercial. A linear pattern of retail businesses along a major roadway, usually characterized by single-story buildings with prominent parking lots visible from the roadway, multiple driveways, large signs, and a dependency on automobiles for access and circulation. Structure. Anything constructed or erected on and permanently or semi- permanently attached to land and with a roof supported by columns or walls, except buildings intended for human occupancy. (see “Building”) Subdivision. The division of any unit or units of real property, improved or unimproved, land for the purpose of sale, lease, or financing. Major subdivisions yield five or more lots, while minor subdivisions yield four lots or fewer. Substandard Housing. A housingresidential building or living unit whose physical condition that endangers the life, limb, property, safety, property, or welfare of the occupants or general public. 5 Greenberg, Ellen J., “Sustainable Streets: Foundations for an Emerging Practice,” 2009, Washington, DC: Transportation Research Board 88th Annual Meeting. Sustainability. Meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Sustainable Streets. “Multimodal rights-of-way designed and operated to create benefits relating to movement, ecology, and community that together support a broad sustainability agenda embracing the three Es: environment, equity, and economy.”5 Townhouse/Townhome. A series of residences on individual parcels, oftentypically two toor three stories in height, that are connected side -by - side in a row, each having a separate street-level entrance. Toxic Air Contaminant (TAC). An air pollutant that may cause or contribute to an increase in serious illness, or that may pose a present or potential hazard to human health, according to California Health and Safety Code Section 39655. Traffic Calming. Measures designed to reduce motor vehicle speeds, increase safety, and to encourage pedestrian use, including narrow streets, tight turning radii, sidewalk bulbouts, parking bays, and textured paving at intersections, and parkways between sidewalks and streets. Triplex. A free-standing house divided into three separate living units or residences, usually having separate entrances. Unincorporated Area. Encompasses properties that areAll land and water within a county that is outside the boundaries of incorporated municipalitiescities and towns. Development in the unincorporated area is subject to County jurisdictionland use regulations. Universal Waste. Common Hhazardous substanceswastes that are widely producedgenerated by households and many different types of businesses, 18 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary including batteries, pesticides, mercury-containing equipmentpaints, lamps, and aerosol cans. Unstable Slope. A very steep hillsideslope that does not have a substantial root system and/or soil type to prevent landslides or otheris susceptible to failure due to geologic hazards, steepness, lack of vegetation, or other adverse conditions. Urban Agriculture/Farming. The practice of growing and processing fresh foodfarming within an urban areaenvironment. Includes cultivation and small-scale processing of agricultural products. Urban Heat Island. The phenomenon in which large urban areas experience higher temperatures, greater pollution, and more negative health impacts during hot months due to a combination of heat-absorptive surfaces, heat- generating activities, and the absence of vegetation. Urban Limit Line (ULL). A political boundary approved by Contra Costa County voters to limit urban development to defined areas of the county while preserving farmland, watersheds, and open space outside those areas. Use. The purpose for which a lot, building, or structure is or may be leased, occupied, maintained, arranged, designed, intended, constructed, erected, moved, altered, and/or enlarged in accordance with the County General Plan land use designations and corresponding Zzoning districtsOrdinance and General Plan land use designations. Utility Corridor. Rights-of-way or easements for utility lines on either publicly or privately owned property. 6 Neil Adger, “Vulnerability,” Global Environmental Change 16 (2006): 268 –281, https://www.geos.ed.ac.uk/~nabo/meetings/glthec/materials/simpson/GEC_sdarticl e2.pdf Vertiport. A facilityfaciity or area designated for use by electric, hydrogen, or hybrid vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft. Vulnerability. The degree to which natural, built, and human systems are susceptible “…to harm from exposure to stresses associated with environmental and social change and from the absence of capacity to adapt.”6 Vulnerability Assessment. An analysis of how a changing climate may harm a community and which elements—people, buildings and structures, resources, ecosystems, and other assets—are most vulnerable to its effects based on an assessment of exposure, sensitivity, the potential impact(s), and the community’s adaptive capacity. Wastewater. Water that has been used in homes, businesses, industrial processes, or other applications. May contains other elements, such as excess water from drainage or piping systems, small pathogens, organic matter, and inorganic contaminants. This term is also used to refer to water generated in industrial plants and commercial activity. Wetland. An area that is inundated or saturated by surface water or groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient to support a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions, commonly known as hydrophytic vegetation. Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI). An area that includes houses and wildland vegetation, creating a significant threat to human life or property from wildfires. The WUI is comprised of three distinct zones: Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary 19 1. The intermix zone contains housing development or improved parcels interspersed in an area dominated by wildland vegetation subject to wildfire. 2. The interface zone contains dense housing next to vegetation that can burn in a wildfire, but is not dominated by wildland vegetation. 3. The influence zone contains wildfire-susceptible vegetation within 1.5 miles from the intermix and interface zones. Xeriscape. Landscaping with an emphasis on water conservation and efficiency. Zero Emission Vehicle/Transportation Device. A vehicle or transportation device (e.g., bicycle or scooter) that does not produce emissions when in operation, including battery-electric vehicles/devices and hydrogen fuel-cell electric vehicles. Zoning. The division of a county by oOrdinances or other legislative regulations adopted by the legislative body of a city or county that divide the jurisdiction into districts or zones that specify allowable uses for real property, impose standards for development (building setbacks, height limitations, landscaping requirements, etc.), and size restrictions for buildings constructed in these areasestablish procedures for review and approval of development proposals. Zoning implements the land use policies of the General Plan. 20 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary This page intentionally left blank. ATTACHMENT A.2 DRAFT 2045 GENERAL PLAN REVISED MAPS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element FIGURE SC-2 ASTHMA RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element FIGURE SC-3 CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element FIGURE SC-4 LOW BIRTH WEIGHT RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element FIGURE SC-5 CHILDREN’S LEAD RISK FROM HOUSING RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element FIGURE SC-6 POVERTY RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element FIGURE SC-7 ADULTS WITHOUT A HIGH SCHOOL DEGREE RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element FIGURE SC-8 GREEN EMPOWERMENT ZONE AND PRIORITY PRODUCTION AREAS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element FIGURE LU-1 GENERAL PLAN LAND USE MAP Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element FIGURE LU-5 PRIORITY DEVELOPMENT AREAS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element FIGURE LU-6 RURAL AND AGRICULTURAL AREAS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element FIGURE TR-2 ROUTES OF REGIONAL SIGNIFICANCE Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element FIGURE TR-3 ROADWAY CLASSIFICATIONS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element FIGURE TR-5 PEDESTRIAN PRIORITY AREAS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation and Open Space Element FIGURE COS-4 PRIORITY CONSERVATION AREAS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation and Open Space Element FIGURE COS-5 WATERBODIES AND NATURAL WATERCOURSES Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation and Open Space Element FIGURE COS-6 WATERSHEDS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation and Open Space Element FIGURE COS-8 IMPAIRED WATERBODIES RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation and Open Space Element FIGURE COS-9 GROUNDWATER THREAT RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation and Open Space Element FIGURE COS-11 ESTIMATED TRIBAL HOMELANDS AND LANGUAGE AREAS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation and Open Space Element FIGURE COS-13 MINERAL RESOURCE AREAS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element FIGURE PFS-2 WATER SERVICE PROVIDERS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element FIGURE PFS-3 WASTEWATER SERVICE PROVIDERS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element FIGURE PFS-7 FEDERAL, STATE, REGIONAL, AND LOCAL RECREATION LANDS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element FIGURE PFS-8 TRAILS NETWORK Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-1 DIESEL PARTICULATE MATTER RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-5 TSUNAMI HAZARD AREAS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-10 FIRE HAZARD SEVERITY ZONES Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-11 WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE DEVELOPMENT PATTERNS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-13 TEMPERATURE FORECAST Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-14 TOXIC RELEASES RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-15 HAZARDOUS WASTE GENERATORS AND FACILITIES RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-16 CLEAN-UP SITES RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-17 EARTHQUAKE HAZARDS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-18 SEISMIC HAZARD ZONES Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-18A LIQUEFACTION SUSCEPTIBILITY Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-18B LANDSLIDE HAZARDS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-20 SINGLE-ACCESS ROAD RESIDENTIAL AREAS ATTACHMENT A.3 PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT #2 CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN 2024 UPDATE ATTACHMENT 3: PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT #2 CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN 2024 UPDATE Contra Costa County Climate Action and Adaptation Plan 2024 Update August 2024 Public Review Draft #2 August 2024 Public Review Draft #2 Contra Costa County Climate Action and Adaptation Plan 2024 Update Prepared By: PlaceWorks 2040 Bancroft Way, Suite 400 Berkeley, California 94704 placeworks.com Prepared For: Contra Costa County 1025 Escobar Street Martinez, CA 94553 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Acknowledgements Climate Action and Adaptation Plan Project Team Department of Conservation and Development John Kopchik, Director Jason Crapo, Deputy Director Jody London, Sustainability Coordinator Demian Hardman, Principal Senior Planner – Climate and Energy Efficiency Programs Adam Scarbrough, Planner Nicole Shimizu, Planner Emily Groth, Planner and Climate Corps Fellow, 2022 – 2023 Savannah McCarthy, Climate Corps Fellow, 2021 – 2022 Cindy Cortez, Climate Corps Fellow, 2019 – 2020 Board of Supervisors John M. Gioia, District 1 Supervisor* Candace Andersen, District 2 Supervisor Diane Burgis, District 3 Supervisor Karen Mitchoff, District 4 Supervisor (term expired 2022) Ken Carlson, District 4 Supervisor (assumed office 2023) Federal D. Glover, District 5 Supervisor* *Indicates member of the Board Sustainability Committee Sustainability Commission Shoshana Wechsler, Member, District 1 Erin Levine, Alternate, District 1, 2023 – 2024 Victoria Smith, Member, District 2 Christopher D. Easter, Alternate, District 2 Michael Moore, Member, District 3 Norman Cohen, Alternate, District 3 Brandon R. Matson, Member, District 4 Wesley Sullens, Alternate, District 4 Charles Davidson, Member, District 5 Renee Fernandez-Lipp, Alternate, District 5 Acknowledgements Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 Sustainability Commission (continued) Chuck Leonard, At-Large, Business Group Susan Hurl, At-Large, Business Group Luz Gomez, At-Large, Community Group Howdy Goudey, At-Large, Community Group Kimberly Hazard, At-Large, Education/Research Kiara Pereira, At-Large, Environmental Justice Sarah Foster, At-Large, Environmental Justice Nick Despota, Member, District 1, 2017 – 2023 Ryan Buckley, Alternate, District 2, 2018 – 2021 John Sierra, Member, District 3, 2017 – 2021 Gretchen Logue, Alternate, District 3, 2017 – 2019 Samantha Moy, Alternate, District 3, 2020 – 2023 Travis Curran, Alternate, District 4, 2017 – 2021 Russell Driver, At-Large, Business, 2019 – 2021 Marisha Farnsworth, At-Large, Business, 2020 – 2023 Nicholas Snyder, At-Large, Business, 2017 – 2020 Harry Thurston, At-Large, Community Group, 2017 – 2021 Doria Robinson, At-Large, Environmental Justice, 2017 – 2020 Isabella Zizi, At-Large, Environmental Justice, 2020 – 2023 Cover page photo credit: Jennifer Groth. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 i TABLE OF CONTENTS Table of Contents Executive Summary ......................................................................................... ES-1 1. Purpose .............................................................................................................. 1 What is the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan? ................................................... 1 Climate Action and Equity ........................................................................................... 4 The CAAP and the General Plan ................................................................................. 8 How To Use This Plan ................................................................................................ 10 2. Action Framework .......................................................................................... 13 State Climate Action and Regulation ....................................................................... 13 Regional Climate Action ............................................................................................ 19 Climate Action in Contra Costa County ................................................................... 22 3. Climate Changes and GHGs ........................................................................... 33 Climate Science .......................................................................................................... 33 GHG Inventory and Forecast .................................................................................... 45 GHG Inventory ............................................................................................................ 47 GHG Forecast .............................................................................................................. 62 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy .......................................... 65 GHG Emissions Reduction Goals .............................................................................. 65 Existing and Planned GHG Emissions Reduction Efforts ...................................... 67 New Reduction Strategies To Achieve Our Goals .................................................. 70 Achieving Our Goals................................................................................................. 110 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy ...................................................................... 115 Vulnerability Assessment Summary ...................................................................... 115 Adaptation Strategies .............................................................................................. 120 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP .............................................................................. 141 Enacting the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan ............................................... 141 Work Plan .................................................................................................................. 149 7. Glossary ......................................................................................................... 185 Notes and Sources ................................................................................................... 193 Table of Contents ii Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 Appendices Appendix A – State and Regional Climate Change Policy and Legislation Appendix Appendix B – Technical GHG Appendix Appendix C – Vulnerability Assessment Technical Appendix Appendix D – 2015 Climate Action Plan Accomplishments Appendix Figures Figure ES-1. GHG Emissions with 2024 CAAP Implementation Compared to Reduction Goals .................................................................................................. ES-7 Figure 1. Relationship of Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation ............................... 2 Figure 2. Jurisdiction of Contra Costa County CAAP (Unincorporated County) ................ 3 Figure 3. Impacted Communities in The Unincorporated County ..................................... 6 Figure 4. California’s GHG Emissions Reduction Goals ...................................................... 14 Figure 5. Timeline of Climate Action Planning in Contra Costa County ........................... 23 Figure 6. Frequency and Projection of Extreme Heat Days in Concord and Richmond ................................................................................................................ 38 Figure 7. Absolute Annual GHG Emissions by Sector, 2005 to 2019 ................................ 51 Figure 8. Per-Person Annual GHG Emissions by Sector, 2005 to 2019 ............................ 54 Figure 9. 2006 Baseline and 2017 County Operations GHG Emissions Summary ......... 57 Figure 10. Consumption-Based GHG Emissions Inventory Results ................................... 60 Figure 11. Absolute Business-As-Usual GHG Emissions Forecast, 2019 to 2045 .............. 63 Figure 12. Business-As-Usual Forecast GHG Emissions and Reduction Goals ................. 67 Figure 13. Defining A CAAP Goal, Strategy, and Action........................................................ 72 Figure 14. Emissions Produced Per kWh of Electricity, MCE and PG&E ............................. 77 Figure 15. Contra Costa County 2045 GHG Emissions with Implementation of 2024 CAAP ...................................................................................................................... 114 Table of Contents Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 iii Tables Table ES-1. GHG Emissions in Unincorporated Contra Costa County and Emission Reduction Goals (MTCO2e) ................................................................................. ES-2 Table ES-2. 2024 Climate Action Strategies .......................................................................... ES-4 Table ES-3. GHG Emissions after 2024 CAAP Implementation .......................................... ES-6 Table 1. Comparison of Topics in The 2045 General Plan and The 2024 CAAP .............. 9 Table 2. Climate Change Impacts in California ................................................................. 35 Table 3. Absolute Annual GHG Emissions, 2005 to 2019 ................................................. 50 Table 4. Proportion of GHG Emissions, 2005 to 2019 ...................................................... 51 Table 5. Per-Person GHG Emissions, 2005 to 2019 .......................................................... 53 Table 6. 2006 Baseline and 2017 County Operations GHG Emissions Summary ......... 57 Table 7. Absolute Business-As-Usual GHG Emissions Forecast, 2019 to 2045 .............. 62 Table 8. Contra Costa County Business-As-Usual Ghg Emissions Forecast and Emission Goals, 2019 to 2045 ............................................................................... 66 Table 9. GHG Emission Reductions from Existing and Planned State, Regional, and Local Actions, 2019 to 2045 .................................................................................. 69 Table 10. GHG Emissions with 2024 CAAP Draft Reduction Strategies, 2019 to 2045 . 110 Table 11. 2024 GHG Emission Reductions and Regulatory Goals ................................... 113 Table 12. 2024 CAAP Implementation Matrix .................................................................... 151 Table of Contents iv Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 This page intentionally left blank. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN v Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS List of Abbreviations AB: Assembly Bill BAAQMD: Bay Area Air Quality Management District BARCAP: Bay Area Regional Climate Action Planning BayREN: Bay Area Regional Energy Network BCDC: Bay Conservation and Development Commission CAP: Climate Action Plan CAAP: Climate Action and Adaptation Plan CARB: California Air Resources Board CCTA: Contra Costa Transportation Authority CEC: California Energy Commission CERT: Community Emergency Response Team CH4: Mmethane CO2: Ccarbon dioxide CO2e: cCarbon dioxide equivalent CPUC: California Public Utilities Commission CRIPP: County Road Improvement and Preservation Program CTP: Countywide Transportation Plan DCD: Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development e-bike: Eelectric bicycle EBMUD: East Bay Municipal Utilities District EPP: Environmentally Preferable Purchasing ESP: Electric Service Provider EV: Eelectric vehicle EVSE: Eelectric vehicle supply equipment GHG: Ggreenhouse gas GSA: Groundwater Sustainability Agency List of Abbreviations vi Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – October 2023 August 2024 IPCC: Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change LCFS: Low Carbon Fuel Standard MTCO2e: Mmetric tons of CO2 equivalence MWELO: Model Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance N2O: Nnitrous oxide PPD: Ppounds per person per day PSPS: Public Safety Power Shutoff RPS: Renewables Portfolio Standard SGMA: Sustainable Groundwater Management Act TNC: Ttransportation network company USEPA: United States Environmental Protection Agency VMT: Vvehicle miles traveled WUI: Wwildland-urban interface ZEV: zZero- emission vehicle CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 ES-1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Executive Summary This 2024 Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (2024 CAAP) is part of Envision Contra Costa, the County’s comprehensive update to the General Plan, Zoning Code, and Climate Action Plan. The 2024 CAAP, an update of the 2015 Climate Action Plan (CAP), is Contra Costa County’s plan to achieve its vision for a sustainable future, adapt to changing climate conditions, and rapidly reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to support a pathway to statewide net-zero emissions by 2045. The 2024 CAAP is intended to serve as a companion to the Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan (2045 General Plan) and to mitigate GHG emissions in the unincorporated county that result from implementation of the General Plan. The 2024 CAAP features a planning horizon out to 2045 and provides updated information and an expanded set of GHG emissions reduction and climate adaptation strategies that apply to the unincorporated county. This 2024 CAAP builds on the work that was established in the 2015 CAP and reflects the latest developments in county- and regional-level climate action planning initiatives, GHG emissions reductions in County operations, and climate action planning policies and practices at the State level. The 2024 CAAP allows the County’s decision makers, staff, and communities to understand the sources and magnitude of local GHG emissions and the impacts of climate change on unincorporated communities in the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County (“unincorporated communities”), prioritize steps to achieve long-term GHG emissions reduction goals, and increase resilience to climate change–related hazards consistent with the County’s goals for land use, transportation, housing, and environmental justice. The Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development led preparation of the 2024 CAAP at the direction of the County’s Board of Supervisors. Preparation of the 2024 CAAP occurred from 2018 to 2024 as part of Envision Contra Costa and in collaboration with a consultant team, the Board Sustainability Committee, the County’s Sustainability Commission, County departments, and community members. The Contra Costa Board of Supervisors has declared that climate change “threatens the long-term economic and social well-being, health, safety, and security of the County, and that urgent action by all levels of government is needed to immediately address this climate emergency”. (Resolution No. 2020/256) Executive Summary ES-2 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 The County remains committed to achieving the ambitious GHG emission reductions adopted by the State of California in response to the increasing impacts and threat of climate change. The 2024 CAAP provides strategies and actions that support the State’s GHG emissions reduction goals through 2045, as established by State laws and regulations, including: • Reduce community-wide1 GHG emissions by 40 percent from the 1990 levels2 by 2030. • Reduce community-wide GHG emissions by at least 85 percent from the 1990 levels by 2045 and be on a pathway to support statewide carbon neutrality by 2045. The County’s business-as-usual forecasted GHG emissions and associated emissions reduction goals and associated emissions are summarized in Table ES-1. The 2024 CAAP is designed to enable Contra Costa County to meet the State’s regulatory emissions reduction goals while , in addition to attaining other County land use, economic growth, and environmental justice objectives. TABLE ES-1. GHG EMISSIONS IN UNINCORPORATED CONTRA COSTA COUNTY AND EMISSION REDUCTION GOALS, 2019 TO 2045 (MTCO2e) 2019 2030 2045 Forecast GHG emissions 986,3101 1,125,2301 1,288,4901 GHG Emissions Goal N/A2 658,700 164,680 GHG emissions to be reduced N/A2 466,530 1,123,810 Note: Numbers rounded to the nearest 10. 1 GHG emissions for 2019 were inventoried, and GHG emissions for 2030 and 2045 are projected from 2019 based on growth assumptions in the General Plan. 2 There is not an adopted GHG reduction goal for 2019. 1 Community-wide is defined as operative or effective throughout the whole community. In this case, this means throughout the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County. 2 The State’s Assembly Bill 32 Scoping Plan identifies 15 percent below 2005–2008 emissions levels as the local government equivalent of 1990 GHG emissions levels. The County uses 2005 as the baseline year. Executive Summary Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 ES-3 CLIMATE ACTION STRATEGIES The 2024 CAAP presents climate action strategies that build on the County’s past achievements and will allow the County to attain its GHG emissions reduction goals while improving community resilience and achieving its goals for growth, economic development, and environmental justice. These climate action strategies include those that directly reduce GHG emissions and those that help lower emissions but are not as easy to directly track, as well as strategies to help improve community resilience to climate hazards through adaptation. The 2024 CAAP includes goals, actions, and strategies for County operations and facilities. Some jurisdictions prepare a separate “municipal CAAP” document. Contra Costa County is including County operations in the CAAP to ensure the County is modeling its commitment to climate action and equity. The 29 comprehensive strategies in the 2024 CAAP reflect input and feedback from communities and County staff and incorporate regional regulations and State laws that are expected to be enacted in the future. All strategies are listed in Table ES-2. Out of the 29 climate action strategies, 11 directly result in GHG emission reductions. The remaining 18 strategies are focused on climate hazard resilience, leadership, equity, and other sustainability goals. The 29 climate action strategies are organized into eight categories. Executive Summary ES-4 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 TABLE ES-2. 2024 CLIMATE ACTION STRATEGIES Clean and Efficient Built Environment (BE) Homes, workplaces, and businesses in unincorporated Contra Costa County run efficiently on clean energy. BE-1: Require and incentivize new buildings and additions built in unincorporated Contra Costa County to be low-carbon or carbon neutral. * BE-2: Retrofit existing buildings and facilities in the unincorporated county, and County infrastructure, to reduce energy use and convert to low-carbon or carbon-freeneutral fuels. * BE-3: Increase the amount of electricity used and generated from renewable sources in the county. * No Waste Contra Costa (NW) Contra Costa County disposes of no more solid waste than 2.2 pounds per person per day (PPD). NW-1: Increase composting of organic waste. * NW-2: Reduce waste from County operations. * NW-3: Increase community-wide recycling and waste minimization programs. * NW-4: Reduce emissions from landfill gas. * Reduce Water Use and Increase Drought Resilience (DR) Contra Costa County uses less water and communities are prepared for drought. DR-1: Reduce indoor and outdoor water use. * DR-2: Ensure sustainable and diverse water supplies. Clean Transportation Network (TR) Contra Costa County's transportation network provides safe and accessible options for walking, biking, and transit. If residents and workers are driving, they are in zero-emission vehicles. TR-1: Improve the viability of walking, biking, zero-emission commuting, and using public transit for travel within, to, and from the county. * TR-2: Increase the use of zero-emission vehicles. Transition to a zero-emission County fleet by 2035 and a community fleet that is at least 50 percent zero-emission by 2030. * Executive Summary Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 ES-5 Resilient Communities and Natural Infrastructure (NI) Contra Costa County will increase resilience to climate hazards and foster community health. NI-1: Protect against and adapt to changes in sea levels and other shoreline flooding conditions. NI-2: Protect against and adapt to increases in the frequency and intensity of wildfire events. NI-3: Establish and maintain community resilience hubs. NI-4: Sequester carbon on natural and working lands in Contra Costa County. * NI-5: Minimize heat island effects through the use of cool roofs, and green infrastructure, tree canopy, cool paint and pavement, and other emerging strategies. NI-6: Protect communities against additional hazards created or exacerbated by climate change. Climate Equity (CE) Contra Costa County will address environmental factors leading to health disparities, promote safe and livable communities, and promote investments that improve neighborhood accessibility. CE-1: Provide access to affordable, clean, safe, and healthy housing and jobs. CE-2: Invest in solutions to support climate equity. CE-3: Increase access to parks and open space. CE-4: Ensure residents have equitable, year-round access to affordable, local fresh food. CE-5: Ensure that large industrial facilities act as good neighbors. Leadership (L) Contra Costa County is a model for how local government can take action on climate issues. L-1: Establish Contra Costa County as a leader among local governments for addressing climate issues. L-2: Continue to recognize the climate crisis as an emergency for Contra Costa County and make addressing climate change a top County priority. Implementation (IS) Contra Costa County will ensure it follows through to achieve the goals and actions in this Climate Action and Adaptation Plan. IS-1: Monitor and report progress toward achieving Climate Action and Adaptation Plan goals on an annual basis. IS-2: Continue collaborative partnerships with agencies and community groups that support Climate Action and Adaptation Plan implementation, with an emphasis on residents and community-based organizations from Impacted Communities. Executive Summary ES-6 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 IS-3: Secure necessary funding to implement the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan. IS-4: Continue to update the baseline emissions inventory and Climate Action and Adaptation Plan every five years. IS-5: Maintain and update the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan to allow for greater resilience. *Indicates strategy with quantified GHG emissions reductions. In conjunction with existing local and State programs, these climate action strategies provide a path to reduce the County’s GHG emissions to 639,46058,300 MTCO2e by 2030 and to 163,13057,610 MTCO2e by 2045 and support statewide attainment of net carbon neutrality by 2045 (Table ES-3 and Figure ES-1). With the reductions currently projected from the 2024 CAAP GHG emissions reduction strategies, 2045 GHG emissions for the unincorporated county are expected to be reduced to 856 percent below 1990 levels, equal to 878 percent below baseline 2005 levels andor 85 83 percent below 2019 levels. These reductions are predicted to occur across most GHG emission sectors, though emissions within the solid waste sector will continue to be affected by previously deposited waste continuing to decompose in landfills.3 With these reductions as currently assessed, unincorporated Contra Costa County achieves the GHG emissions reduction goals for 2030 and 2045. TABLE ES-3. GHG EMISSIONS AFTER 2024 CAAP IMPLEMENTATION 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E GHG emissions goals 658,700 164,680 GHG emissions after CAAP implementation 639,460 163,130 Goal achieved after CAAP implementation? Yes Yes Note: Due to rounding, totals may not equal the sum of the individual values. 3 The federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act defines solid waste as “any garbage or refuse, sludge from a wastewater treatment plant, water supply treatment plant, or air pollution control facility and other discarded material, resulting from industrial, commercial, mining, and agricultural operations, and from community activities. Nearly everything we do leaves behind some kind of waste. It is important to note that the definition of solid waste is not limited to wastes that are physically solid. Many solid wastes are liquid, semi-solid, or contained gaseous material”. Executive Summary Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 ES-7 FIGURE ES-1. GHG EMISSIONS WITH 2024 CAAP IMPLEMENTATION COMPARED TO REDUCTION GOALS 0 200,000 400,000 600,000 800,000 1,000,000 1,200,000 1,400,000 2005 2013 2017 2019 2030 2045GHG Emissions (MTCO2e)Baseline emissions Emissions with state and regional actions Emissions with CAAP Goal Executive Summary ES-8 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 IMPLEMENTATION Climate change already touches all aspects of life, work, and play within unincorporated Contra Costa County. In the absence of focused, ambitious, and equitable climate action, these effects will only become more pronounced, disruptive, and harmful over time. The County will use this document to help set climate action planning priorities, allocate resources to the communities and assets that are most vulnerable to climate change, and monitor and evaluate progress towards GHG emissions reduction goals and increases in community equity and resilience. The 2024 CAAP and 2045 General Plan provide a blueprint for how the County, its residents, and businesses can achieve a more sustainable, resilient future. The County developed the 2024 CAAP with the support and coordination of communities, and continued collaboration between the County and community partners is central to the 2024 CAAP’s successful implementation. Residents, workers, and business owners can use this document to better understand their personal and community-level vulnerability to climate change and for guidance on how to reduce their GHG emissions and improve their climate resiliency, including finding information about available financial and educational resources. This 2024 CAAP guides new development by introducing strategies that will reduce GHG emissions associated with the built environment. The 2024 CAAP is a California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)-qualified GHG Reduction PlanClimate Action Plan, which means that future development projects requiring environmental review under State law can streamline their GHG impact analyses by demonstrating consistency with the 2024 CAAP. This streamlining can save time and money during the environmental review process by allowing developers to reduce the number of steps involved in the environmental impact assessment process. Therefore, it is important that developers, landowners, planners, and others familiarize themselves with the strategies in the 2024 CAAP and comply with these strategies when designing, approving, and building new development. Contra Costa County is dedicated to making our communities cleaner and healthier for families, children, and future generations. Executive Summary Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 ES-9 County staff will monitor progress and provide regular updates to communities to ensure the effectiveness of each strategy. To ensure that the implementation process is efficient and transparent, the 2024 CAAP includes a high-level implementation plan that identifies responsible County departments, partners, and time frames associated with each strategy. Implementation of the plan will occur over threefour time frames—near term (by 2026), mid-term (by 2028), and long term (by 2030). The strategies do not have end dates because they are intended to remain in effect into the future. County staff will lead 2024 CAAP implementation by collaborating with and supporting community organizations, residents, businesses, and stakeholders to create programs that accomplish the goals, strategies, and actions outlined in the 2024 CAAP. To set the 2024 CAAP up for success, the County will integrate the plan’s goals, strategies, and actions into applicable County programs, plans, and initiatives. See Table 12 for complete implementation details for each strategy. The 2024 CAAP should be considered a living document that the County can modify to ensure that the GHG emissions reduction goals are achieved. Executive Summary ES-10 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 This page intentionally left blank. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 1 1. PURPOSE 1. Purpose Photo credit: Ben Weise. What is the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan? The Contra Costa County Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (2024 CAAP) is the County’s strategic plan to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and to adapt to changing climate conditions in the unincorporated areas of the county. The 2024 CAAP demonstrates Contra Costa County’s leadership and commitment to reduce GHG emissions and enhance community resiliency to long-term changes associated with climate-related hazards such as heat, flooding, droughts, and wildfires. The 2024 CAAP is an update of the 2015 Climate Action Plan (CAP). It provides updated information, an expanded set of GHG emissions reduction strategies, climate adaptation strategies, and a planning horizon out to 2045. It also establishes an implementation program and a framework to monitor, track, and report progress over time. The 2024 CAAP builds on several earlier sustainability and energy efficiency efforts and local accomplishments. The 2024 CAAP is intended to serve as a companion to the County’s General Plan, Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan, and to mitigate GHG emissions that result from implementation of the General Plan. This approach supports a holistic view of climate action planning and sustainability—it works to reduce Contra Costa County’s contribution to climate change while simultaneously preparing for the changes that cannot Chapter 1 2 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 be avoided. Figure 1 depicts the relationship between reducing GHG emissions, also referred to as climate change mitigation, and climate change adaptation. FIGURE 1. RELATIONSHIP OF CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION AND ADAPTATION Image credit: California Adaptation Planning Guide. The 2024 CAAP allows decision-makers, residents, businesses, and community stakeholders to understand the sources and magnitude of local GHG emissions from the energy, solid waste, water, and transportation sectors of the unincorporated county (see Figure 2 for the jurisdiction of the 2024 CAAP4); establish goals to reduce GHG emissions; and prioritize steps to achieve reduction goals. The 2024 CAAP includes goals, strategies, and actions that the County and community can take to achieve significant GHG emission reductions in the unincorporated areas of the county and ensure that the County is on track to support the State’s goal to achieve statewide net carbon neutrality by 2045. 4 Figure 2 shows the Urban Limit Line (ULL), which limits urban development to certain areas of the county and helps preserve farmland, open space, and habitat. 1. Purpose Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024October 2023 3 FIGURE 2. JURISDICTION OF CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CAAP (UNINCORPORATED COUNTY) Chapter 1 4 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 This 2024 CAAP includes strategies that directly reduce GHG emissions as well as strategies that help lower GHG emissions but are not as easy to directly track. The 2024 CAAP includes information about how climate change may affect natural hazards and identifies the populations, infrastructure, services, facilities, and natural resources in the unincorporated county that are most vulnerable to the effects of climate change. The 2024 CAAP has a suite of strategies to help improve community resilience to these hazards, also known as adaptation. The County developed the 2024 CAAP between 2018 and 2024 as part of the County’s General Plan update process, Envision Contra Costa. The Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development prepared the 2024 CAAP at the direction of the County’s Board of Supervisors and in collaboration with a consultant team, the Board Sustainability Committee, the County’s Sustainability Commission, County departments, and community members. This 2024 CAAP builds on the work that was established in the 2015 CAP and reflects the latest developments in county- and regional-level climate action planning initiatives, County GHG emissions reductions, and climate action planning policies and practices at the State level. The County has continued its work on climate action as the CAAP and General Plan were under development. Interim climate action work plans for 2021-2022 and 2023-2024 have guided progress during this time. This work has been recorded and shared with the public in annual progress reports. Climate Action and Equity Climate action is closely intertwined with equity issues, and a comprehensive approach to addressing climate change must also address the entrenched inequities in our society. In Contra Costa County and elsewhere in California, Equity: The state in which each individual or group is allocated the resources needed to reach an equal outcome. Contra Costa County is dedicated to making our communities cleaner and healthier for families, children, and future generations. 1. Purpose Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 5 Impacted Communities5, such as low-income, disabled, senior, and communities of color, have faced extensive discrimination, negligence, and economic disempowerment. Members of Impacted Communities often live in areas that are more at risk from climate change–related natural hazards. These persons also often lack the financial means and other resources or authority to act on climate change. These may include purchasing an electric vehicle, learning skills to pursue jobs in an emerging green economy, and if they own a home, retrofitting their home to better withstand climate change impacts, and renovating their home to improve energy efficiency, or installing solar panels on their house. As seen in Figure 3, Impacted Communities in the unincorporated county are concentrated along the county’s northern waterfront. The 2024 CAAP acknowledges such inequities and recognizes that Contra Costa County must play a role in resolving them. Though this 2024 CAAP cannot solve inequity by itself, it can contribute to a more equitable future by: • Providing resources to persons and communities who have historically been denied them. • Integrating equity considerations into County decision-making processes. • Supporting Impacted Communities in taking action to address climate change. • Creating a Just Transition that helps address the root causes of climate change and system inequities. • Ensuring that Impacted Communities have a voice in climate action planning through community-driven planning. Equity was a key priority of the County in developing the 2024 CAAP and 2045 General Plan. Many of the GHG emissions reduction and climate adaptation strategies in this 2024 CAAP help to improve community equity. Those strategies are marked with the icon of a balance scale, as shown at on the right. 5 “Impacted Communities” refers to a designation developed by CalEPA. CalEPA has formally designated four categories of geographic areas as “disadvantaged”: 1. Census tracts receiving the highest 25 percent of overall scores in CalEnviroScreen 4.0; 2. Census tracts lacking overall scores in CalEnviroScreen 4.0 due to data gaps, but receiving the highest 5 percent of CalEnviroScreen 4.0 cumulative pollution burden scores; 3. Census tracts identified in the 2017 DAC designation as disadvantaged, regardless of their scores in CalEnviroScreen 4.0; and 4. Lands under the control of federally recognized tribes. The term “Impacted Communities” was selected via community input. Chapter 1 6 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – October 2023 August 2024 FIGURE 3. IMPACTED COMMUNITIES IN THE UNINCORPORATED COUNTY 1. Purpose Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 7 Equity vs. Equality “Equity and equality are often used interchangeably, but equity and equality do not mean the same thing. Equality is about sameness—meaning that everyone receives the same thing regardless of any other factors. However, equality is only useful if everyone starts from the same place, which is often not the case. Lower-income populations and communities of color often have less access to healthy and energy-efficient housing, transit, or safe bicycling and walking routes. Equity, on the other hand, is about fairness, which is about ensuring that people have access to the same opportunities and have what they need to thrive and succeed. Equity is needed before equality can be reached. This understanding recognizes that people may have different starting points and may need different types and levels of support to flourish”. Reference: Urban Sustainability Directors’ Network Guide to Equitable Community-Driven Climate Preparedness Planning, May 2017 Image credit: Interaction Institute for Social Change | Artist: Angus Maguire Chapter 1 8 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 The CAAP and the General Plan The County updated the CAAP in tandem with the update of the County’s General Plan (2045 General Plan). The 2024 CAAP is intended to complement and help implement the General Plan. There is some overlap in topics addressed by the 2045 General Plan and the 2024 CAAP; the concurrent preparation of the plans ensures they are consistent. The 2045 General Plan acknowledges this connection by highlighting policies that promote sustainability with a special icon: . The climate action strategies presented later in this CAAP include General Plan policies and actions that reduce GHG emissions or increase resilience and are cross-referenced with the General Plan policy or action number in parenthesis. The 2024 CAAP is thus linked with the General Plan in continuing the County’s path towards sustainability. Preparation of Tthe 2045 General Plan also includeds completion of a climate change vulnerability assessment. This assessment considers climate changes likely to affect unincorporated Contra Costa County in the future and projected impacts on populations, assets, and community services. The County used findings from the vulnerability assessment to inform policies related to climate change resilience and adaptation, resource conservation, and energy use in both the 2045 General Plan and 2024 CAAP. The results of the vulnerability assessment are provided in Chapter 3 and Appendix C. The 2024 CAAP focuses on behaviors, regulations, and investment decisions that directly reduce GHG emissions and/or promote climate resilience and lays out an implementation and monitoring program to ensure that the County meets its State GHG emissions reduction goals. GHG emissions are highly dependent on County-level policies regulating land use, resource use and conservation, and transportation. A comparison of the topics addressed in the 2045 General Plan and the 2024 CAAP is provided in Table 1. The Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan is the County’s primary policy tool to guide physical changes in the unincorporated areas of the county. This General Plan looks over 20 years into the future and establishes a vision for development of our communities and stewardship of our natural environment. It is aspirational and long-range, but also practical, providing a useful, everyday guide for community planning. 1.Purpose Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 9 TABLE 1. COMPARISON OF TOPICS IN THE 2045 GENERAL PLAN AND THE 2024 CAAP UPDATED GENERAL PLAN 2024 CAAP SHARED TOPICS •Agriculture •Air quality •Climate change resilience and adaptation •Economic development •Energy use and generation •Extreme heat •Flood hazards and sea level rise •Greenhouse gases •Solid waste management •Transportation •Water conservation and quality •Wildfire hazards •Agricultural pests and diseases •Air quality •Climate change effects and vulnerabilities •Economic development and Just Transition •Energy use and generation •Extreme heat •Flooding, shoreline flooding, and sea level rise •Greenhouse gas emissions •Solid waste management •Transportation •Water conservation •Wildfires DIFFERENT TOPICS •Community health •Emergency response and evacuation •Hazardous materials •Historic and cultural resources •Housing •Land use patterns •Mineral, oil, and natural gas resources •Noise •Open space and ecological preservation •Public facilities and infrastructure •Seismic and geologic hazards •Carbon sequestration •Climate change resilience and adaptation •County investments •County leadership •Drought •Fog •Human health hazards •Landslides and debris flows •Severe storms Chapter 1 10 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 How To Use This Plan Climate change already touches all aspects of life, work, and play within Contra Costa County. In the absence of focused, ambitious, and equitable climate action, these effects will only become more pronounced over time. The 2024 CAAP is intended for residents, workers, business owners, County staff, and policymakers to provide information about the science of climate change, to highlight what the County has already done to address climate change, and to establish a road map for further GHG emissions reductions and advances in community equity, adaptation, and resilience. The County will use this document to help set climate action planning priorities, allocate resources to the communities and assets that are most vulnerable to climate change, and monitor and evaluate progress towards GHG emissions reduction goals and increases in community equity and resilience. Residents, workers, and business owners can use this document to better understand their personal and community-level vulnerability to climate change and for guidance on how to reduce their GHG emissions and improve their climate resiliency, including finding information about available financial and educational resources. This 2024 CAAP guides new development by introducing strategies that will reduce GHG emissions associated with the built environment. The 2024 CAAP is a CEQA-qualified Climate Action and Adaptation Plan or GHG reduction strategy, which means that future development projects in the unincorporated county that require environmental review under State law will have the option to streamline their GHG impact analyses by demonstrating consistency with this CAAP. This streamlining can save time and money during the environmental review process by allowing developers to reduce the number of steps involved in the environmental impact assessment process. Therefore, it is important that developers, landowners, planners, and others familiarize themselves with the strategies in the 2024 CAAP and comply with these strategies when constructing new development. The 2024 CAAP is intended for residents, workers, business owners, and policymakers to provide information about the science of climate change, to highlight what the County has already done to address climate change, and to establish a road map for further emissions reductions and advances in community equity and resilience. 1. Purpose Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 11 The remainder of this 2024 CAAP covers the following topics: • Chapter 2 (Climate Action Framework) discusses the State, regional, and local regulatory framework that informs the 2024 CAAP and related climate action planning efforts. It also highlights some of Contra Costa County’s recent and ongoing efforts to reduce GHG emissions and improve resilience to climate change. Chapter 2 is supported by the Climate Change Policy and Legislation Appendix (Appendix A). • Chapter 3 (Climate Change and GHGs) presents the results of two analyses: the GHG inventory and forecast for unincorporated Contra Costa County, which assesses recent and projected future GHG emissions; a discussion of the County’s consumption-based inventory; and a study of the expected future changes to climate change–related hazards. • Chapter 4 (GHG Emission Reduction Strategy) identifies the levels of GHG emissions reductions that the 2024 CAAP seeks to achieve and presents the County’s set of strategies and actions to meet or exceed these reductions. It also shows the GHG emissions that have already been reduced through existing and planned State, regional, and local efforts. Chapter 4 is supported by the GHG Technical Appendix (Appendix B). • Chapter 5 (Climate Adaptation Strategy) presents the findings of the vulnerability assessment, which looks at how people and community assets may be harmed by climate change–related hazards. It lays out the County’s strategies to improve resilience to these hazards and adapt to changing conditions. Chapter 5 is supported by the Vulnerability Assessment Technical Appendix (Appendix C). • Chapter 6 (Realizing the 2024 CAAP) presents the implementation details and high- level work plan of the 2024 CAAP, emphasizing the County’s leadership on climate action planning. Chapter 1 12 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 This page intentionally left blank. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 13 2. CLIMATE ACTION FRAMEWORK 2. Action Framework Photo credit: Envision Contra Costa picture gallery The 2024 CAAP builds on a legacy of climate action planning in California on the State level and at the regional and local level. These Existing State and regional plans, regulations, and programs inform future GHG emissions projections, GHG emissions reduction strategies, and climate action, adaptation, and resilience strategies that appear in this document. This chapter provides an overview of State actions and regulations that informed the development of the CAAP and climate action that is already underway at the local and regional level. GHG savings from these activities attributed to unincorporated Contra Costa County are presented in Chapter 4. State Climate Action and Regulation California has a history of enacting legislation aimed at reducing the State’s GHG emissions and ensuring resiliency in the face of a changing climate. California law first addressed climate change directly in 1988, when Assembly Bill (AB) 4420 directed the State to prepare a GHG inventory and study the impacts of climate change. Since then, California’s California has a history of enacting legislation aimed at reducing the state’s GHG emissions and ensuring resiliency in the face of a changing climate. Chapter 2 14 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 governors have signed several executive orders, and the legislature has adopted several laws to assess climate change, analyze GHG emissions and their effects, reduce emissions, and prepare for the impacts of climate change. Many of these laws and regulations affect local governments, but not all create specific requirements for individual communities. This section provides brief summaries of key climate change legislation, and Appendix A provides more detailed descriptions of climate change legislation. The State’s major goals are shown in Figure 4. FIGURE 4. CALIFORNIA’S GHG EMISSIONS REDUCTION GOALS EXECUTIVE ORDER S-03-05 AND ASSEMBLY BILL 32 – CALIFORNIA GLOBAL WARMING SOLUTIONS ACT OF 2006 In 2005, former Governor Schwarzenegger issued Executive Order S-03-05, which established the first statewide GHG emissions reduction goals for California and directed the State to: • Reduce emissions to 2000 levels by 2010. 2020: Reduce GHG emissions to 1990 levels (enacted by EO S-03-05, codified by AB 32) 2030: Reduce GHG emissions 40 percent below 1990 levels (enacted by EO B-30-15, codified by SB 32) 2045: Achieve net carbon neutrality (enacted by EO B-55- 18, codified by AB 1279) 2. Climate Action Framework Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 15 • Reduce emissions to 1990 levels by 2020.6 • Reduce emissions 80 percent below 1990 levels by 2050. In 2006, Governor Schwarzenegger signed Assembly Bill (AB) 32, the Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006.1 AB 32 codified the 2020 reduction goal, requiring California to reduce statewide GHG emissions to 1990 levels by 2020. EXECUTIVE ORDER B-30-15 AND SENATE BILL 32 In 2015, former Governor Jerry Brown signed Executive Order (EO) B-30-15, which directed State agencies to take several steps to reduce statewide GHG emissions and adapt to changing climate conditions. One section of this executive order set a GHG emissions reduction goal for the State of 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030. In 2016, the legislature passed, and the governor signed Senate Bill (SB) 32, which codified the 2030 GHG emissions reduction goal into law. EXECUTIVE ORDER B-55-18 In 2018, Governor Brown issued Executive Order B-55-18, which established an additional statewide goal of achieving carbon neutrality (no net GHG emissions) by 2045. Under this goal, any GHGs that are emitted by California must be fully offset by other activities by 2045. This goal does not yet have the force of law, but it does indicate the direction that the State is moving in and may be a reference point for future legislative action. 6 According to an assessment of GHG emissions trends conducted by the Air Resources Board in 2022, statewide GHG emissions dropped below the 2020 GHG emissions limit in 2014 and have remained below the limit since that time. Net carbon neutrality A net carbon neutral goal means that any GHG emissions produced by the community are balanced out through carbon sequestration, offsets, or other activities that remove GHG emissions from the atmosphere, so that the community’s net GHG emissions are zero. Ideally, the community will reduce its own emissions as much as possible, and then balance out the remainder. The scenario in the State's 2022 Scoping Plan would reduce emissions to approximately 85 percent below 1990 levels and then offset the remaining emissions, as required by AB 1279. Chapter 2 16 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 ASSEMBLY BILL 1279 In 2022, Governor Newsom signed AB 1279, the California Climate Crisis Act, which requires the State to achieve net zero GHG emissions as soon as possible, but no later than 2045, and achieve and maintain net negative GHG emissions thereafter. The bill also requires California to reduce statewide GHG emissions by 85 percent compared to 1990 levels and directs the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to work with relevant State agencies to achieve these goals. CLIMATE CHANGE SCOPING PLAN The Climate Change Scoping Plan2 (Scoping Plan) was first adopted in 2008 and was updated in 2014, 2017, and 2022. The Scoping Plan describes the strategies that California will implement to reduce the State’s emissions to achieve the emission reduction goals required by statute. It identifies GHG emissions reduction strategies to achieve the State’s goals, including direct regulations, alternate compliance mechanisms, incentives, voluntary actions, and market-based approaches like a cap-and-trade program. Although While the Scoping Plan has a statewide focus, it identifies local governments as strategic partners to achieving the State goals. Each version of the Scoping Plan has provided guidance for local government actions to reduce GHGs. The 2008 Scoping Plan noted that the statewide goal of reducing emissions to 1990 levels by 2020 was comparable to reducing emissions 15 percent below “existing” emissions by 2020 for local governments. Although “existing emission levels” was not formally defined by the Scoping Plan, agencies throughout California have interpreted it as referring to emissions between 2005 and 2008. As a result, Contra Costa County’s GHG emissions reduction strategies used 2005 emissions as the “existing” or baseline level to inform the 2020 goal in the 2015 CAP, which in turn informs the 2030 and 2045 goals in the 2024 CAAP. The 2022 update to the Scoping Plan recommends that local governments support statewide efforts to achieve net carbon neutrality. The 2022 Scoping Plan employs a variety of GHG emissions reduction strategies that include direct regulations, alternative compliance mechanisms, incentives, voluntary actions, and market-based approaches like a cap-and-trade program. Carbon neutrality takes it one step further by expanding actions to capture and store carbon, including through natural and working lands and mechanical technologies, while drastically reducing 2. Climate Action Framework Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 17 anthropogenic sources of carbon pollution at the same time.7 The 2022 Scoping Plan focuses on the outcomes needed to achieve carbon neutrality statewide by assessing paths for clean technology, energy deployment, natural and working lands, and others. It is designed to meet the State’s long-term climate objectives and support a range of economic, environmental, energy security, environmental justice, and public health priorities. The 2022 Scoping Plan identifies strategies that would be most impactful at the local level for ensuring substantial progress towards the State’s carbon neutrality goals. The 2022 Scoping Plan notes, “These areas and strategies are designated as ‘priority’ because they are the GHG emissions reduction opportunities over which local governments have the most authority and that have the highest GHG emissions reduction potential”. This CAP integrates feasible GHG emissions reductions from the 2022 Scoping Plan. CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)3 requires many proposed development projects to conduct an environmental review that identifies how the project may impact the environment, including changes to GHG emissions. The State CEQA Guidelines include provisions for local governments to use adopted plans for reducing GHG emissions to address the cumulative impacts of individual future projects on GHG emissions (see State CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5(b)(1)). Consistent with the State CEQA Guidelines, lead agencies may use adopted GHG emissions reduction plans, such as a CAP, to assess the cumulative impacts of projects on climate change at a programmatic level. If the adopted plan is consistent with State CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5, the analysis and GHG emissions reduction efforts in the plan may be applied to individual projects, meaning that the projects would not have to conduct separate GHG analyses and project-specific environmental documents may tier from and/or incorporate by reference the existing programmatic review. A future project-specific environmental review that relies on this 2024 CAAP for its cumulative impact analysis must show consistency with the plan by preparing a Consistency Checklist, identify specific GHG emissions reduction strategies from the 2024 CAAP that are applicable to the project, and demonstrate how the project will implement 7 The County’s 2023 Healthy Lands, Healthy People study identifies strategies for using natural and working lands to capture and store carbon. A Sustainable Agricultural Lands Conservation Grant from the State of California funded the study. Chapter 2 18 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 these strategies. Project applicants and County staff will identify which specific strategies are applicable to each project during project review. If applicable strategies are not otherwise binding and enforceable, they must be incorporated as mitigation strategies for the project. Projects that have cumulative impacts on GHG emissions may still need to prepare a separate GHG analysis and environmental review. This 2024 CAAP meets the requirements in the State CEQA Guidelines that allow it to be applied to individual projects by: • Quantifying emissions, both existing and projected over a specified period, resulting from activities within a defined geographic area, as discussed in Chapter 3. • Establishing a level, based on substantial evidence, below which the contribution of emissions from activities covered by the plan would not be cumulatively considerable. Chapter 3 of this 2024 CAAP identifies the County’s GHG emissions reduction goals, consistent with the State’s regulatory goals, which are: ▪ Reduce emissions to 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030. ▪ Reduce emissions to 85 percent below 1990 levels by 2045. ▪ Support statewide net carbon neutrality by 2045. • Identifying and analyzing the emissions resulting from specific actions or categories of actions anticipated within the geographic area, as discussed in Chapter 4. • Specifying strategies or a group of strategies, including performance standards that, if implemented on a project-by-project basis, substantial evidence demonstrates they would collectively achieve the specified emissions level, as discussed in Chapters 4 and 5 and Appendix B. • Establishing a mechanism to monitor the plan’s progress toward achieving specific levels and to require amendment if the plan is not achieving those levels, as discussed in Chapter 6. • Including an environmental review of the 2024 CAAP. The 2024 CAAP is evaluated by the Contra Costa 2045 General Plan Environmental Impact Report. 2. Climate Action Framework Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 19 Regional Climate Action BAY AREA AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT DISTRICT The Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) regulates stationary sources of air pollution in the nine counties that surround San Francisco Bay: Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, southwestern Solano, and southern Sonoma counties. The 24- member Board of Directors that governs BAAQMD includes four representatives from Contra Costa County, including two members of the County Board of Supervisors. BAAQMD’s Clean Air Plan (2017) provides a regional strategy to protect public health and the climate via continued progress toward all State and federal air quality standards, and to eliminate health risk disparities from exposure to air pollution among Bay Area communities. It includes a wide range of control measures designed to decrease emissions of the air pollutants that are most harmful to Bay Area residents, such as particulate matter, ozone, and toxic air contaminants; to reduce emissions of methane and other GHGs that are potent climate pollutants in the near-term; and to decrease emissions of carbon dioxide by reducing fossil fuel combustion. BAAQMD’s Clean Air Plan defines a vision for transitioning the region to the post-carbon economy needed to achieve ambitious GHG emissions reduction goals for 2030 and 2050 and provides a regional climate protection strategy that will put the Bay Area on a pathway to achieve those GHG emissions reduction goals. In addition to fulfilling its role as a regulatory agency, BAAQMD plays a vital role in supporting climate action across the Bay Area. In 2018, BAAQMD provided a Climate Protection Grant Program grant to Contra Costa County that allowed the County, in partnership with the Cities of Antioch, San Pablo, and Walnut Creek, and the community organization Sustainable Contra Costa, to launch the Cleaner Contra Costa Challenge. The Cleaner Contra Costa Challenge is an online platform that allows county residents to take actions in their everyday lives that reduce GHG emissions. BAAQMD’s Clean Air Plan defines a vision for transitioning the region to the post-carbon economy needed to achieve ambitious GHG emissions reduction goals for 2030 and 2050 and provides a regional climate protection strategy that will put the Bay Area on a pathway to achieve those GHG emissions reduction goals. Chapter 2 20 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 BAAQMD has offered funding for public agencies for trip reduction; bicycle parking and bikeways; and clean vehicle projects including electric vehicle charging stations, green fleets, and replacement of off-road and heavy-duty vehicles and equipment. BAAQMD’s Climate Tech Finance program provides loans for public agencies looking to invest in green technology and pilot projects. On April 20, 2022, the BAAQMD Board of Directors adopted CEQA Thresholds for Evaluating the Significance of Climate Impacts from Land Use Projects and Plans (2022 CEQA Guidelines).4 Appendix B of the 2022 CEQA Guidelines, CEQA Thresholds for Evaluating the Significance of Climate Impacts, presents BAAQMD’s thresholds of significance for use in determining whether a proposed project will have a significant impact on climate change and provides the substantial evidence that lead agencies will need to support their use of these thresholds. The proposed thresholds require that long-range plans, such as the General Plan and 2024 CAAP, must either meet the State’s goals to reduce emissions to 40 percent of 1990 levels by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2045 or must be consistent with a local GHG strategy that meets the criteria under State CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5(b). BAAQMD’s 2022 CEQA Guidelines also includes Appendix C, Guidance for Greenhouse Gas Reduction Strategies, which Contra Costa County followed during preparation of this CAAP. In March 2023, BAAQMD adopted amendments to Regulation 9, Rules 4 and 6. These revisions require that, when existing natural-gas-powered space heaters and water heaters reach the end of their operational life, they be replaced with electric-powered models. These requirements are scheduled to take effect in 2027 to 2031 for water heaters (depending on the capacity of the unit) and in 2029 for space heaters. The 2024 CAAP supports BAAQMD’s Clean Air Plan, CEQA Thresholds for Evaluating the Significance of Climate Impacts from Land Use Projects and Plans, and revisions to Regulation 9 as well as many other BAAQMD programs and initiatives aimed to reduce regional GHG emissions. In 2023, BAAQMD received funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (USEPA’s) Climate Pollution Reduction Grant program, to lead the Bay Area Regional Climate Action Planning (BARCAP) initiative, an eight-county climate action planning process to position the region to compete for $4.3 billion in implementation funding. This planning effort identifies specific, implementation-ready climate measures in high-priority sectors that provide significant GHG reductions and benefit frontline communities. Contra Costa County is a participating agency in the BARCAP initiative and assisted in the development of the Priority Climate Action Plan for the Northern and Central Bay Area Region. 2. Climate Action Framework Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 21 CONTRA COSTA TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY The Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) maintains the Countywide Transportation Plan (CTP).5 The CTP is updated approximately every five years. CCTA conducts extensive outreach to the public, cities, and the County during the update process. The CTP provides the overall direction for achieving and maintaining a balanced and functional transportation system within Contra Costa County while strengthening links between land use decisions and transportation. It outlines CCTA’s vision for future transportation and establishes goals, policies, strategies, projects, and actions for achieving that vision. The CTP is also the detailed plan which helps inform and direct transportation funding allocated throughout Contra Costa County. The CTP helps support the County’s climate action planning vision by advancing goals to reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMT), increase the use of active transportation modes, promote transit-oriented development, promote advances in vehicle technology, increase transit capacity, and ensure that the transportation system is resilient in the face of climate change. Implementing these policies will help the County meet its GHG emissions reductions and climate resiliency goals in a way that is consistent with other regional planning efforts. CCTA also oversaw the creation of Contra Costa County’s Electric Vehicle Readiness Blueprint. This document prepares Contra Costa County for the electric vehicle (EV) future by identifying the best locations for charging infrastructure; helping cities to adopt development standards and ordinances that encourage EV adoption; preparing the workforce of the future to maintain EVs and charging infrastructure; and identifying where improvements to the electricity distribution infrastructure are necessary to support electric-ready mobility hubs and zero-emission bus fleets. The Electric Vehicle Readiness Blueprint was adopted in July 2019. The CCTA’s INNOVATE 680 seeks to implement a suite of projects that, when operating together, will address corridor-wide congestion, travel delays, and long-standing operational challenges along Interstate 680 (I-680). INNOVATE 680 projects address part- time transit lanes, express lane completion, shared mobility hubs, mobility on demand, and The Countywide Transportation Plan helps support the County’s climate action planning vision by advancing goals to reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMT), increase the use of active transportation modes, promote transit-oriented development, promote advances in vehicle technology, increase transit capacity, and ensure that the transportation system is resilient in the face of climate change. Chapter 2 22 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 automated driving systems. For additional detail on the projects implemented as part of INNOVATE 680, see: https://ccta.net/projects/innovate-680/. Climate Action in Contra Costa County Since the early 2000s, Contra Costa County has initiated several efforts to address climate change, including efforts to measure and reduce GHG emissions, prioritize climate change mitigation in local government, and employ natural ecosystems for GHG mitigation. The 2024 CAAP, with its emphasis on mitigation, measurement, and resilience and adaptation, is the most recent chapter of the County’s climate change response and mitigation journey. Highlights of the County’s initiatives are shown in Figure 5 and further described in this section. Over the years, county voters have supported many strategies that improve the quality of life and the environment. In 1990, Contra Costa County voters approved an Urban Limit Line (ULL) for a period of 20 years. The ULL restricts urban development to certain areas of the county and helps to preserve farmland and open space. In 2006 it was adopted for another 20 years from that date. About 47 percent of the land in the county is inside the urban limit lines and urban growth boundaries adopted by the County and the 19 cities in the county. The East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy is a joint exercise of powers authority formed by Contra Costa County and the Cities of Brentwood, Clayton, Oakley, and Pittsburg to implement the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservation Plan / Natural Community Conservation Plan (HCP/NCCP). Formed over a ten-year planning and permitting process, the HCP/NCCP began implementation in 2007. The HCP/NCCP provides a framework to protect natural resources in eastern Contra Costa County while improving and streamlining the environmental permitting process for impacts on endangered species. The HCP/NCCP avoids project-by-project permitting that is generally costly and time consuming for applicants and often results in uncoordinated and biologically ineffective mitigation. The conservation strategy of the HCP/NCCP provides for comprehensive species, wetlands, and ecosystem conservation and contributes to the recovery of listed species in northern California. 2. Climate Action Framework Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 23 FIGURE 5. TIMELINE OF CLIMATE ACTION PLANNING IN CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Chapter 2 24 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 Over the years, county voters have supported many strategies that improve the quality of life and the environment. In 1990, Contra Costa County voters approved an Urban Limit Line (ULL) for a period of 20 years. The ULL restricts urban development to certain areas of the county and helps to preserve farmland and open space. In 2006 it was adopted for another 20 years from that date. About 47 percent of the land in the county is inside the urban limit lines and urban growth boundaries adopted by the County and the 19 cities in the county. The East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy is a joint exercise of powers authority formed by Contra Costa County and the Cities of Brentwood, Clayton, Oakley, and Pittsburg to implement the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservation Plan/Natural Community Conservation Plan (HCP/NCCP). Formed over a ten-year planning and permitting process, the HCP/NCCP began implementation in 2007. The HCP/NCCP provides a framework to protect natural resources in eastern Contra Costa County while improving and streamlining the environmental permitting process for impacts on endangered species. The HCP/NCCP avoids project-by-project permitting that is generally costly and time consuming for applicants and often results in uncoordinated and biologically ineffective mitigation. The conservation strategy of the HCP/NCCP provides for comprehensive species, wetlands, and ecosystem conservation and contributes to the recovery of listed species in northern California. Over the years, voters have approved funding for the East Bay Regional Park District to maintain and expand its network of regional parks and other facilities in Contra Costa County. This includes Measure FF, a $12/year parcel tax extension of Measure C, which was approved in 2004. The County partners closely with the Contra Costa Resource Conservation District on a range of conservation programs and projects, including habitat preservation, strategies for supporting agriculture, and related topics. Contra Costa County began taking significant steps to address climate change in 2005 with the publication of its first Climate Protection Report, which provided an estimate of the County’s GHG emissions, reported existing County efforts to reduce GHG emissions, and listed potential actions that could reduce GHG emissions in the future. In February 2007, the Board of Supervisors directed County staff to prepare a GHG emissions inventory of community-wide and County government operations GHG emissions. In October 2007, the Board of Supervisors adopted a resolution to complete a climate action plan for the County’s municipal facilities and operations funded by the BAAQMD. 2. Climate Action Framework Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 25 In December 2008, the Board of Supervisors adopted a Municipal Climate Action Plan, which established formal GHG emissions reduction goals, GHG emissions reduction strategies, and methods for analysis and monitoring of GHG emissions reduction strategies for emissions from the County’s operations. The County conducted an interim GHG inventory in 2013 to direct priorities toward achieving a goal of reducing the GHG emissions of government operations to 15 percent below 2005 levels by 2020. 2015 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN On December 15, 2015, the Board of Supervisors adopted a Climate Action Plan (2015 CAP) to reduce community-wide GHG emissions in the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County. The 2015 CAP included sections covering the scientific and regulatory environment, an updated GHG inventory and forecast, and a climate change health risk assessment. Strategies in the 2015 CAP addressed GHG emissions reductions, promoting healthy communities, and facilitating CAP implementation. The County created its first full-time sustainability staff position, the Sustainability Coordinator, to oversee implementation of the 2015 CAP. The County Board of Supervisors’ Sustainability Committee and the County Sustainability Commission were created to support implementation of the strategies in the 2015 CAP. Since 2015, the County has implemented a variety of actions to help meet the goals set forth in the 2015 CAP. Appendix D provides more detail on progress made in meeting 2015 CAP goals. The County has reduced community-wide emissions associated with electricity use by joining the community choice energy program MCE and promoting the use of MCE’s Deep Green and Local Sol products, which allow residents and businesses to purchase 100 percent renewable electricity and 100 percent locally produced solar, respectively. This also includes promoting energy efficiency incentive programs offered within the County by MCE, the Bay Area Regional Energy Network, and others. County facilities that do not have solar panels subscribe to MCE’s Deep Green product. In 2018, through a grant from the Strategic Growth Council, the County developed a Renewable Resource Potential Study that identifies the potential to generate clean energy The cover of the County’s 2015 Climate Action Plan. Chapter 2 26 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 in Contra Costa County. Among other things, the study found significant opportunity for solar energy, both on existing rooftops and parking lots in developed areas, and on undeveloped “greenfield” parcels in rural areas. In 2020, the County adopted a solar overlay zone to allow commercial solar energy facilities in certain areas, including commercial, industrial, and some agriculturally zoned parcels that are not prime agricultural land. As described later in this chapter, in 2023, the County completed Healthy Lands, Healthy People6 through a Sustainable Agricultural Lands Conservation grant from the California Department of Conservation. This study identifies strategies for storing carbon in the diverse land uses in Contra Costa County. Since 2015, the County has adopted and is implementing policies for complete streets and Vision Zero and adopted an Active Transportation Plan. The County is constantly seeking funding to implement these policies. BOARD SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE The County Board of Supervisors’ Sustainability Committee oversees implementation of the CAP. The Sustainability Committee has played a role in several sustainability initiatives, including promoting the installation of EV charging stations in County facilities and converting the County fleet to all-electric, tracking the development of environmental justice goals and initiatives, promoting energy use management and efficiency programs, reviewing environmental justice and sustainability themes in the ongoing update to the General Plan, and raising awareness about climate change among residents and County officials. COUNTY SUSTAINABILITY COMMISSION In 2017, the County Board of Supervisors established the Sustainability Commission, a citizen advisory body, that advises County staff and the Board of Supervisors on the successful implementation of the CAP, including suggestions on how the work can be performed more efficiently and effectively; The Sustainability Commission has addressed topics in the sectors of energy use and green buildings; transportation; water conservation; solid waste; and climate adaptation, resilience, and environmental justice. 2. Climate Action Framework Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 27 opportunities to realize equity and fairness across the diverse communities of Contra Costa County in sustainability programs that support the CAP; and provide suggestions on how to better engage residents and businesses on sustainability issues and implementation of the CAP. The Sustainability Commission, which reports to the Board Sustainability Committee, has addressed topics in the sectors of energy use and green buildings; transportation; water conservation; solid waste; and climate adaptation, resilience, and justice. In addition to supporting preparation of the 2024 CAAP, the Sustainability Commission has advised on implementation of the 2015 CAP, Climate Emergency Resolution, and Electric Vehicle Readiness Blueprint, which promote climate resilience, plan for a Just Transition of oil refineries on the Contra Costa County shoreline, examine how to transition to all-electric and carbon-neutral buildings materials, and provide outreach and education on sustainability to Contra Costa County residents and businesses. East Bay Energy Watch The East Bay Energy Watch (EBEW) was a partnership between the Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) and local governments in the East Bay region, including Contra Costa County. EBEW provided support for member agencies to conduct energy efficiency outreach to residents and businesses, retrofit existing government facilities to improve energy efficiency, and provide training to agency staff. EBEW also prepared a series of GHG inventories and provided GHG emission tracking for all member jurisdictions. The GHG inventories presented in Chapter 3 of the 2024 CAAP are based on the inventories EBEW prepared. EBEW ceased operations in 2020 when PG&E elected not to renew the organization’s funding, although similar partnerships remain active in other parts of California. Chapter 2 28 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 TRANSPORTATION ANALYSIS GUIDELINES In June 2020, the County adopted the Contra Costa Transportation Guidelines. These guidelines are intended to establish a uniform approach, methodology, and tool set to evaluate the impacts of land use decisions and related transportation projects on the County transportation system. The guidelines use VMT to assess impacts to the transportation system and require the development of mitigation measures to offset traffic impacts that are found to have exceeded CEQA’s identified threshold(s) of significance. COUNTY REACH CODES The County has adopted building and energy provisions that go beyond the State’s building and energy codes. These amendments to the State codes are commonly called “reach codes”. Section 74-4.006 of the Contra Costa County Code of Ordinances, adopted in 2015, amends the California Green Building Standards Code by setting requirements for installation of EV charging stations at new multifamily and nonresidential construction. For most new multifamily dwellings, if residential parking is provided, 10 percent of the total number of parking spaces at the dwelling site are required to be EV spaces. Half of the EV spaces, but not less than one, must be equipped with fully operational electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE). The remaining EV spaces are required to be capable of supporting future EVSE. New nonresidential construction is required to provide EV spaces in accordance with the amount of available parking. On January 18, 2022, the County Board of Supervisors adopted Ordinance 2022-02, an All- Electric (New Construction) Ordinance, to amend the 2019 California Energy Code to require the following building types to be all-electric: residential (including single-family and multifamily buildings), detached accessory dwelling units, hotel, office, and retail. On February 27, 2024, the County Board of Supervisors suspended its enforcement of Ordinance 2022-02, because of a decision on January 2, 2024, by the U.S. Court of Appeals 9th Circuit that invalidated a City of Berkeley ordinance that prohibited natural gas infrastructure in new buildings, precluding cities and counties from adopting ordinances that prohibit the installation of gas plumbing in buildings. On June 4, 2024, the County Board of Supervisors authorized staff to prepare an ordinance amending the County building code to replace its All-Electric (New Construction) Ordinance with a new ordinance to increase energy-efficiency standards for certain residential and nonresidential buildings. This action is reflected in this CAAP’s discussion of future GHG emissions. 2. Climate Action Framework Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 29 In November 2022, the County Board of Supervisors adopted Ordinance 2022-35, which adopts and amends, among others, the 2022 California Building Code. Amendments include revisions to Section 420.14 to expand requirements for the installation of EV charging infrastructure at newly constructed nonresidential and multifamily residential buildings. It also carries forward the all-electric requirements first adopted in Ordinance 2022-02.Federal courts struck down the City of Berkeley’s all-electric ordinance in January of 2024, and County legal experts believed that Contra Costa County’s ordinance would be vulnerable under the Court’s ruling. The following month, the County suspended enforcement of the all-electric requirements first adopted in Ordinance 2022-02 and modified by Ordinance 2022-35. The County Board of Supervisors has directed County staff to work on a replacement ordinance that would encourage all-electric buildings without being vulnerable to the same legal challenges, and this action is reflected in this CAAP’s discussion of future GHG emissions. The County’s ordinance that sets additional standards for EV charging stations remains in effect. CLIMATE EMERGENCY RESOLUTION On September 22, 2020, the Board of Supervisors adopted Resolution No. 2020/256,7 declaring that climate change “threatens the long-term economic and social well-being, health, safety, and security of the County, and that urgent action by all levels of government is needed to immediately address this climate emergency”. The resolution prioritizes the urgent implementation of the County’s 2024 CAAP to achieve GHG emissions reductions and to consider equity and social justice issues in the implementation of the plan, and directs that health, socioeconomic, and racial equity considerations be included in policymaking and climate solutions at all levels. The Climate Emergency Resolution also calls for establishing an ongoing task force of County department heads to focus on implementing the 2024 CAAP, planning for a Just Transition away from an economy based on fossil fuels, and adopting an all-electric ordinance for new construction. Chapter 2 30 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 INTERDEPARTMENTAL CLIMATE ACTION TASK FORCE When the Board of Supervisors declared a climate emergency in 2020, one of the actions identified to address the emergency was the creation of an Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force that includes all department heads or their senior deputies. The task force is directed to focus on urgently implementing the CAP and to identify additional actions, policies, and programs the County can undertake to reduce and adapt to the impacts of a changing climate. The Task Force is directed to report to the Board of Supervisors twice a year. The first of these reports, released in March 2021, recommended that the Board establish a Sustainability Fund to support improvements to County facilities and operations that reduce GHG emissions. The Board of Supervisors has directed the Department of Public Works to manage the fund, including the identification and implementation of projects and tracking savings, with the task force serving as an advisory committee to the fund. The Sustainability Committee recommended that the initial focus of the fund be used to install the first tranche of electric vehicle charging stations, an ongoing priority. The Task Torce has also worked on scaling and implementing Green Business Program best practices in each of the County departments. Most County departments have nominated volunteers for the Green Government Group (G3) Champions program. The G3 Champions form a network of over 75 County employees across 18 departments who are focused on making Contra Costa County a cleaner, healthier place to live and work. The G3 Champions meet every other monthregularly to discuss climate action work happening in their departments and develop strategies and activities to educate and engage their colleagues in sustainability.learn about different topics and take action to educate their colleagues and implement change. The Task Force is directed to focus on urgently implementing the County's Climate Action and Adaptation Plan and to identify additional actions, policies, and programs the County can undertake to reduce and adapt to the impacts of a changing climate. The Green Government Group (G3) Champions logo. 2. Climate Action Framework Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 31 ENVISION CONTRA COSTA Every county and incorporated community in California is required to adopt and occasionally update a document called a general plan, which is a comprehensive and long- range plan for the jurisdiction’s land use policies and related matters for how communities will grow and develop. State law requires that each general plan includes the following topics: • Land use • Circulation • Housing • Conservation • Open space • Noise • Safety • Environmental justice (for communities that meet criteria) The County’s process to update its current General Plan, is referred to as Envision Contra Costa. Envision Contra Costa began in late 2018 and included the 2045 General Plan, a zoning code update, and this 2024 CAAP. The 2045 General Plan and the 2024 CAAP are organized around four specific topics: environmental justice, sustainability, community health, and economic development. HEALTHY LANDS, HEALTHY PEOPLE CARBON SEQUESTRATION STUDY In 20231, the County began completed a feasibility study—Healthy Lands, Healthy People— to identify strategies for storing carbon in the diverse land uses in Contra Costa County. The County received a Sustainable Agricultural Lands Conservation grant from the State that funded the project. The County partnered with the Contra Costa Resource Conservation District, the University of California Cooperative Extension, and a consultant team to develop Healthy Lands, Healthy People. The study , completed in 2023, will informs next steps to increase investments in trees, gardens, agricultural practices, and other activities that can use natural and working lands to address climate change. Chapter 2 32 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 COMMUNITY LEVEL ACTION Just as climate change touches on all aspects of community life in Contra Costa County, all community members can take personal and collective action to reduce GHG emissions and advance resilience. Many community organizations, businesses, and individuals have already acted. The 2024 CAAP builds on these initiatives while engaging all members of the Contra Costa County community in climate action. As described previously, iIn 2018, the County partnered with the cities of Antioch, San Pablo, and Walnut Creek and Sustainable Contra Costa to launch the Cleaner Contra Costa Challenge. A Climate Protection grant from the Bay Area Air Quality Management District provided funds to build an online platform tailored to Contra Costa communities that allows residents to take actions to create a cleaner, healthier place to live, work, and play. The two-year grant provided an opportunity to pilot the program before launching it more widely. Sustainable Contra Costa now operates the program across the county. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 33 3. CLIMATE CHANGES AND GHGS 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Photo credit: Envision Contra Costa picture gallery Climate Science WHAT IS CLIMATE CHANGE? Climate is the long-term average of weather conditions, such as temperature and precipitation. It is normal for Earth’s climate system to experience long-term shifts, but human activity is causing global climate change at a much more rapid pace than in the past. Human-caused climate change is largely attributable to the burning of fossil fuels, which causes greenhouse gases (GHGs)_ called GHGs to build up in the atmosphere and trap heat close to the Earth’s surface, a phenomenon known as the greenhouse effect. Most GHGs are naturally occurring gases, such as water vapor, carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O), that absorb heat radiated from the Earth’s surface. Some GHGs can persist in the atmosphere and trap heat for thousands of years once they are emitted. Human-caused climate change is largely attributable to the burning of fossil fuels. Chapter 3 34 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 As the levels of GHGs in the atmosphere increase because of human activity, more heat is trapped, increasing the temperature of the Earth’s surface at an unprecedented rate. Because Earth’s climate system is driven by the movement of heat in the atmosphere and in the oceans, more heat creates shifts in the global climate system, causing climate change. The effects of climate change vary in different geographic locations, and often include significant changes to temperatures, precipitation patterns, and storm activity. EFFECTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE Globally, the effects of human-caused climate change have been observed as: • Increases in global surface temperatures. • Increases in precipitation over land and increases in storm intensity. • Retreat of glaciers. • Ocean acidification. • Warming of the global upper ocean. • Increase in global mean sea level.8 Extreme heat days have become more frequent and more intense across most land regions since the 1950s, and extreme cold events have become less frequent. The frequency and intensity of heavy precipitation events have increased since the 1950s over most land areas, and drought has become more frequent in some areas due to increased evapotranspiration (water evaporation from land to sky). CLIMATE CHANGE IN CALIFORNIA In California and western North America, observations of the climate have shown: (1) a trend toward warmer temperatures with an increase in extremely hot days and nights; (2) an increase in the area burned by wildfires; (3) a smaller fraction of precipitation falling as snow; (4) an increase in frequency of drought and an increase in consecutive dry years; and (5) sea level rise is expected to continue to increase flooding and erosion on beaches, bluffs, and cliffs.9 Research suggests that California will continue to experience hotter and Human-induced climate change is already affecting many weather and climate extremes in every region across the globe. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s (IPCC) Sixth Assessment Report, global warming of 1.5°C and 2°C will be exceeded during the 21st century unless we make great reductions in CO2 and other greenhouse gas GHG emissions in the coming decades. 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 35 drier conditions, reductions in winter snow and increases in winter rains, sea level rise, significant changes to the water cycle, and an increase in extreme weather events. These changes in climate will affect economic systems throughout California, including Contra Costa County. To refrain from action is costly and risky; the California Fourth Climate Change Assessment estimates that taking no action to address the potential impacts of climate change will lead to economic losses of “tens of billions of dollars per year in direct costs” and “expose trillions of dollars of assets to collateral risk”. Table 2 summarizes potential impacts in California due to climate change. TABLE 2. CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACTS IN CALIFORNIA CLIMATE IMPACT HISTORICAL TRENDS FUTURE DIRECTION OF CHANGE CONFIDENCE FOR FUTURE CHANGE Temperature Warming Warming Very High Sea Level Rise Rising Rising Very High Snowpack Declining Declining Very High Annual Precipitation No significant trends Unknown Low Intensity of Heavy Precipitation Events No significant trends Increasing Medium-High Frequency of Droughts No significant trends Increasing Medium-High Marine Layer Clouds Some downward trends Unknown Low Acres Burned by Wildfire Increasing Increasing Medium-High Source: Louise Bedsworth et al. 2018, “Statewide Summary Report,”, in California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment, publication no. SUMCCCA4-2018-013, 2018. CLIMATE CHANGE IN CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Climate change is expected to alter many aspects of the county’s climate, including temperature, precipitation patterns, and sea levels, potentially exacerbating both the severity and geographic scope of climate hazards. Contra Costa County is most vulnerable to hazards associated with pests and diseases, changes in air quality, drought, extreme heat, flooding, fog, human health hazards, landslides and debris flows, severe storms, sea level rise, shoreline flooding, and wildfire. These climate stressors are described in the following paragraphs. Chapter 3 36 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 Agricultural pests and diseases The farms and ranches of Contra Costa County face risks from assorted pests and diseases that may affect crop plants, trees, and livestock. These pests and diseases can reduce or delay plant and animal growth, inflict such damage that agricultural products are less appealing and harder to sell, or cause plant or animal death. To manage greater pest and disease pressure, farmers may also need to increase pesticide applications. Many pests and organisms that carry diseases are most active during warmer months, so the threat of infection or infestation is usually higher during these months. As the climate changes, temperatures are expected to get warmer earlier in the year and remain warmer until later in the year, creating a wider window for agricultural and urban pests and diseases to be active. Both evergreen and oak woodlands in the county can be damaged by forestry pests and diseases, such as Sudden Oak Death and redwood bark beetles. These diseases severely harm ecosystems, including both woodlands and the animals that depend on them to provide habitat and foraging, such as coyote, gray fox, barn owl, red-tailed hawk, and Cooper's hawk. Air quality The primary determinants of air quality in Contra Costa County are ozone pollution from vehicle exhaust, particulate matter from industrial centers and diesel trucks, and allergen distribution. Higher temperatures can increase surface ozone concentrations, and increased water vapor can trap ozone in already-polluted areas. Ground-level ozone is associated with a variety of negative health outcomes, including reduced lung function, pneumonia, asthma, cardiovascular diseases, and premature death. Ozone concentrations are projected to increase in most places that already experience high ozone levels, such as eastern Contra Costa County. Nunn Vineyard. Photo credit: Stan Muraoka. 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 37 Drought A drought happens when conditions are drier than normal for an extended period, making less water available for people (especially if local water supply depends on surface water), agricultural uses, and ecosystems. Communities in Contra Costa County may experience water shortages during drought conditions and mandatory water restrictions for domestic and agricultural uses. Farmers may need to cut back on irrigation, and ranchers may need to reduce the number of their livestock. Farmers may also be forced to plant varieties that are more drought tolerant or alter the timing and location of fields to ensure that irrigation water is available at critical times. Land may be left fallow if irrigation water is not available, which may increase the pressure to develop prime agricultural land. Less precipitation could lower water levels, decrease water quality, and raise water temperatures at streams and lakes. These conditions can cause algal blooms in Delta areas and harm salmonid populations and other aquatic species, such as the California red- legged frog and western pond turtle. Droughts are a regular occurrence in California; however, scientists expect that climate change will lead to more frequent and more intense droughts statewide. Extreme heat Contra Costa County has different thresholds for extreme heat in different parts of the county. An extreme heat day is where temperatures reach 94 degrees Fahrenheit in Rodeo, 99 degrees Fahrenheit in Alamo, and 102 degrees Fahrenheit in Knightsen. 10Extreme heat temperatures for the western part of the county are lower, but any higher-than-usual temperature can be harmful to people and assets that are not accustomed to it. Historically, Contra Costa County has experienced an average of four extreme heat days a year. This number is expected to increase dramatically because of climate change, as illustrated in Figure 6. By the middle of the 21st century (2040 to 2070), Contra Costa County is likely to have an average of 15 to 20 extreme heat days per year. By the end of the century, the county is projected to experience an average of 21 to 37 extreme heat days per year. Chapter 3 38 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 FIGURE 6. FREQUENCY AND PROJECTION OF EXTREME HEAT DAYS IN CONCORD AND RICHMOND Source: Cal-Adapt. https://cal-adapt.org/. Historical data is available through 2020. Extreme heat can cause heat-related illnesses, such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. High temperatures can harm animals and plants that are not adapted to them. Some types of infrastructure, including power lines and roadways, experience greater stresses during high temperatures, making failure more likely. People are less likely to venture outside in very high temperatures, hurting economic sectors that depend on outdoor activities. Extreme heat can also increase the risk of wildfires by drying out plant material, and prolonged high temperatures contribute to drought conditions. An example of health inequity tied to climate change is that Black Americans have been found to be at a higher risk of illness and death from heat. However, there is no biological basis for this. Instead, this finding has been linked to social factors such as poverty, neighborhood conditions, access to air conditioning, and vehicle ownership. These factors are also associated with higher rates of chronic health conditions among the Black community, including cardiovascular disease and hypertension. Long-standing patterns of racial residential segregation and institutional racism mean that Black individuals disproportionately live in high-poverty, disinvested neighborhoods, regardless of income. The Contra Costa County communities with the highest proportions of Black residents are 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 1950195619621968197419801986199219982004201020162022202820342040204620522058206420702076208220882094Number of DaysYears Concord Richmond Historical Future 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 39 the unincorporated community of North Richmond and the cities of Antioch, Pittsburg, and Richmond. These conditions exist in Contra Costa County for other low-income residents of impacted communities. Extreme heat also can create vulnerability for workers whose jobs are outdoors, such as those in agriculture or construction, and those who work in poorly ventilated buildings and/or buildings that lack air conditioning. Analysis conducted as part of the 2015 Contra Costa County Health Extreme hHeat vVulnerability aAssessment determined that the neighborhoods most vulnerable to heat are Bethel Island, East County, the Monument Corridor in Concord, the Rossmoor Area in Walnut Creek, and West County. These results are found in a summary of the assessment, 2015 Climate Change Vulnerability in Contra Costa County: A Focus on Heat.11 Extreme weather may also lower water quality and cause water temperatures to rise, which can lead to algal blooms and declines in aquatic populations. Native fish species may have a more difficult time surviving in warmer waters and non-native species may out-compete native species. Flooding Flooding happens when there is too much water in inland areas to be held in local bodies, carried away by drains or creeks, or soaked into the soil. This water can build up and wash into normally dry areas and significantly harm buildings, people, and habitats. Floodwaters can be deep enough to drown people and may move fast enough to carry away people, cars, or even homes. Floodwaters Air Conditioning Air conditioner ownership helps protect against extreme heat events. However, while air conditioners allow households to adapt to extreme heat, increased household air conditioning could strain energy capacity and counter mitigation goals by leading to greenhouse gasGHG emissions. Identifying areas where few households have air conditioners is important to ensure that these communities are adequately served by cooling centers. Low-income households are less likely to have or use air conditioning, and a lack of air conditioning may be one of the drivers of racial inequalities in morbidity and mortality during heat waves. IWithin Contra Costa County, households in historically cooler areas and areas with older housing stock are less likely to have home air conditioning. All-electric heat pumps can provide both air conditioning and heating services, reducing the need for natural gas service, and helping to address this inequity. Chapter 3 40 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 can carry contaminants into communities, impacting public health, ecosystem health, and water quality. Floods can be caused by heavy rainfall, extended periods of moderate rainfall, or clogged drains during periods of rainfall. Flash floods can be especially dangerous because they happen so fast that they give little or no warning. Although climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of droughts, scientists also project that it will increase the frequency and intensity of heavy rain and associated floods in Contra Costa County. Fog Fog is a very low cloud, usually low enough to touch the ground. It forms when air near the surface reaches the right temperature to form water vapor, which condenses into a cloud. In Contra Costa County, fog usually forms in two areas—western Contra Costa County along the bayfront and eastern Contra Costa County as part of the Central Valley. Western Contra Costa County experiences coastal fog that flows in from the Pacific Ocean. Eastern Contra Costa experiences tule fog, which usually forms after heavy rain between late autumn and early spring in the Central Valley. The cool air brought in by fog is necessary for the productivity of agriculture in the region and the growth of many tree-dominated habitats on the hillsides of Contra Costa County. The impacts of climate change on fog are less clear. There has been close to a 50 percent reduction in tule fog in California’s Central Valley since the 1980s. Coastal fog is projected to decline by 12 to 20 percent between 1900 and 2070. Climate scientists believe that the warmer temperatures created by climate change make it harder for the air to become cool enough to create fog, and warmer temperatures are more likely to evaporate any fog that does form. In agriculture, many varieties of fruit and nut trees require winter chill (measured as a number of chill hours) for high fruit and nut quality and yield. Research has shown that the warmer air that is replacing seasonal fog decreases the number of these important chill hours. This reduces the yield and quality of the cherries, almonds, walnuts, and other stone fruit that are grown in Contra Costa County. The cool air brought in by fog is necessary for the productivity of agriculture in the region and the growth of many tree-dominated habitats on the hillsides of Contra Costa County. 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 41 Redwoods depend on the coastal fog for water in the summer months. The absence of coastal fog may cause higher evapotranspiration rates and increase the demand for water in woodland ecosystems during the drier summer months. Human health hazards There are several diseases that are linked to climate change and can be harmful to the health of Contra Costa County community members. Examples of these diseases include hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, Lyme disease, and West Nile virus, which can be debilitating or fatal for some of the population. These diseases are carried by animals such as mice and rats, ticks, and mosquitos. Climate change can increase the rate of infection because, with warmer temperatures earlier in the spring and later in the winter, these animals can be active for longer, widening the window for disease transmission. Warmer temperatures and more intense rainfall can lead to larger populations of animals such as mosquitos, rodents, and ticks, increasing the risk of contracting diseases carried by these animals. As described previously in the section on Agriculture, as the climate changes, temperatures are expected to get warmer earlier in the year and remain warmer until later in the year, creating a wider window for agricultural and urban pests and diseases to be active. Landslides and debris flows Landslides occur when a slope, such as the side of a hill or mountain, becomes unstable, causing soil and rocks to slide down the slope. Landslides are most common on steep slopes made up of loose soil and other materials and are often triggered by precipitation. The types of landslides caused by precipitation are typically debris flows (a landslide made of a wet mix of rock, soil, and other materials) and mudflows (or mudslides, which are primarily made of wet soil). Because they are so fluid, debris flows and mudflows can flow for long distances past the base of the slope and affect large areas. Landslides can damage or destroy buildings and infrastructure, block roadways, disrupt sensitive ecosystems, and injure or kill people in their path. Climate change does not directly cause more frequent or intense landslides. However, it is expected to increase the conditions that can lead to landslides, such as an increase in heavy storms that saturate the ground and make a landslide more likely. These events can cause significant damage to important infrastructure in Contra Costa County, as happened during the Morgan Territory landslide in 2017. After large storm events in January and February of that year, the resulting landslide snapped a water main and collapsed a section Chapter 3 42 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 of Morgan Territory Road, leaving homes without water for a week and closing the road for months. Wildfires also increase the likelihood of a landslide by removing vegetation that supports slopes and slows down water. Wildfires can alter soil conditions, increasing erosion and water runoff, further exacerbating slope instability. Because climate change is projected to increase wildfire activity, it is possible that this could also increase the size and/or intensity of future landslides. Severe storms Severe storms include strong winds, hail, and lightning. Severe weather is usually caused by intense storm systems, although some types of strong winds can occur without a storm. Hail can damage buildings and plants (and in extreme cases, injure people), and lightning can spark fires, injure people, or cause fatalities. There have been no reported damage or injuries from lightning in Contra Costa County, although hail up to 0.75 inches in diameter fell in portions of Contra Costa County in April of 1983. Severe winds, such as the Diablo Winds that blow in northern California in the spring and fall, can damage or destroy buildings, knock over trees, and damage power lines and electrical equipment (potentially causing wildfires). In some cases, strong winds can reach between 40 and 80 miles per hour, causing trees to fall and damage power lines. Strong winds are the most common type of severe weather in Contra Costa County. In winter 2023, a series of severe storms triggered high wind, flooding, and freeze warnings across the county. Felled trees and debris caused power outages, the cold temperatures caused delays on BART, and slick roads made driving more dangerous.12 The connection between climate change and severe storms is not as well established as other weather events, but new evidence suggests that severe storms may happen more often and more intensely than in the past. Climate change may affect strong winds that are not associated with intense storms, but scientists are not clear on how these wind patterns might change. 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 43 Sea level rise As global temperatures rise, glaciers and other land ice near the north and south poles melts. The water flows into the ocean, increasing sea levels across the globe. Higher temperatures also cause water to expand in oceans, further raising sea levels. Eventually, sea levels may increase enough to permanently flood low-lying areas near the Bay shoreline and Delta areas. Sea level rise threatens buildings, infrastructure, and ecosystems that may be temporarily or permanently flooded by water in the shoreline areas and Delta of Contra Costa County. Structures built above the increased sea level can still be harmed if the higher level of the water erodes away the rock or soil supporting the structure, potentially making it unsafe and at risk of collapse. Sea level rise can also promote saltwater intrusion into the Delta aquatic systems and groundwater basins, which would negatively affect water quality and aquatic habitats. Aquatic habitats may be harmed if industrial or oil facilities are inundated, as hazardous materials could be released into the soils and water. Shoreline flooding Rising sea levels mean that shoreline floods can become more severe and more frequent along shoreline communities and areas in the Delta. Because the ocean is at a higher level during new normal conditions, shoreline floods such as king tides can reach further onto land. Higher sea levels can also give a “boost” to smaller floods that would not have been large enough to flood dry land during past normal conditions, making shoreline flooding more frequent. During strong storms and king tides, shoreline flooding can damage or destroy buildings in low- lying areas, disrupt transportation routes, and harm important economic assets such as the oil refineries and the Delta. The communities facing In California, sea levels may increase in most places by 6 to 10 inches by 2030, 13 to 23 inches by 2050, and 41 to 83 inches by 2100, relative to the average sea levels between 1991 and 2009. However, it is possible that sea level may increase faster than these projections. Shoreline facilities, such as this marina, are at particular risk from shoreline flooding. Photo credit: Lisa Gorrell. Chapter 3 44 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 the greatest risk in the unincorporated areas of the county are North Richmond, Rodeo, Crockett, Bay Point, Bethel Island, and Discovery Bay. Shoreline flooding could also damage water infrastructure and interrupt regional and statewide water services. Wildfire Wildfires are a regular feature of the landscape in much of California. Winter rains support plant growth, and the summer dry season dries out vegetation, increasing the potential for ignition during the late summer and fall when temperatures are high. Wildfires are defined as fires burning in natural areas, but they can easily spread into the developed areas between urban and wildland zones, known as the wildland-urban interface. Large sections of Contra Costa County are considered to be high or very high fire hazard severity zones by CAL FIRE. This exposes people and property to the flames, increasing the risk of injury, death, and property damage or destruction. The smoke and ash from wildfires can increase air and water pollution levels and create a significant health risk in the region, particularly under weather conditions that prevent smoke from clearing, as happened during the Camp Fire in Butte County in Northern California (2018) and LNU Lightning Complex Fire in Northern California wine country areas (2020). Local ecosystems can be harmed by wildfire. Chaparral and scrub ecosystems are in high fire hazard severity zone areas. Although wildfires naturally occur in chaparral ecosystems, fires more than every 20 years can reduce the biodiversity of chaparral habitat and cause the ecosystem to convert to a grassland or scrub habitat. Riparian ecosystems can be harmed by wildfires due to loss of canopy and changes in soil structure, erosion, and shifts in specific composition due to changes in habitat structure. Large fires can cause widespread devastation throughout woodland areas in Contra Costa, particularly if trees have been weakened or killed by drought, extreme heat, or pest infestation. Climate change is expected to lead to an increase in wildfires throughout California. Warmer temperatures, an increase in drought conditions, and forestry pests and diseases are likely to create more fuel in State and federal wildlands and a greater chance that a spark will grow into a potentially dangerous blaze. Excessive heat and dry conditions have already contributed to the rapid spread of wildfires in Contra Costa County during events Fire activity is projected to increase where development expands in the wildland-urban interface, in addition to the dry hills around the Mount Diablo region in Contra Costa County. 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 45 such as the 3,700-acre Morgan Fire on Mount Diablo (2013); the 396,624-acre SCU Lightning Complex fires (2020), which impacted six counties; and the Franklin Fire (2022). Climate change is also expected to extend the fire season throughout much (or even all) of the year. Because wildfires burn the trees and other vegetation that help stabilize a hillside and absorb water, increases in fire activity may also lead to an increase in landslides and floods. GHG Inventory and Forecast INTRODUCTION A GHG inventory is an estimateaccounting of the GHG emissions attributable to a particular community over the course of a specific year. A GHG forecast takes information from the GHG inventory as well as predictions of future demographic trends and the projected impacts of climate-related legislation to predict future levels of GHG emissions. GHG emissions are generated by various activities that are commonplace in daily life, such as driving, electricity use, and water use. Some daily activities release GHG emissions in the location of the activity, such as gases released any time an internal combustion engine is operated. Other activities cause GHG emissions to be released elsewhere, such as using nonrenewable or non- carbon-free electricity to power a home, which generates GHG emissions in the location of the power plant that supplies the power, not in the home itself. Therefore, Contra Costa County must consider all GHG emissions caused by resulting from activities attributed to residents, business, workers, and visitors of the unincorporated community, including GHG emissions generated both inside and outside the County’s jurisdictional boundaries. Determining the annual level of GHG emissions for specific years on a recurring basis will aid the County in establishing an attainable goal for continually reducing emissions. Furthermore, knowing which activities release GHG emissions allows the County to develop policies and programs that facilitate a decrease in emissions for each activity. Chapter 3 46 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 The County has develops two types of GHG inventories: (1) community-wide inventories and (2) County operations inventories. • A community-wide GHG inventory identifies GHG emissions that result from activities of unincorporated Contra Costa County residents, employees, visitors, and other community members. Examples include GHG emissions from residents driving cars, homes using water, and businesses using electricity. The community-wide GHG inventory presented for the unincorporated county is a production-based inventory, which means that it assesses the GHG emissions produced by activities occurring in the community. • A County operations GHG inventory summarizes emissions that are a direct result of Contra Costa County’s government operations. Examples include GHG emissions from electricity and water used in County buildings or the fuel used for County vehicles. The project team prepared the new GHG inventories and updates to past GHG inventories consistent with the guidance in widely adopted, standard protocol documents. These protocols provide guidance on what activities should be evaluated in the GHG inventories and how emissions from those activities should be assessed. Using standard methods also allows for an easy comparison of GHG emission levels across multiple years and communities. The methods used to create these inventories are described in Appendix B. Determining the annual level of GHG emissions will aid the County in establishing an attainable goal for continually reducing emissions. Furthermore, knowing which activities release GHG emissions allows the County to develop policies and programs that facilitate a decrease in emissions for each activity. Details about implementing these GHG reduction activities are included in the Enacting the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan section in Chapter 6. 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 47 GHG Inventory The following sections present the results of the community-wide and County operations GHG inventories for the years 2005, 2013, 2017, and 2019. COMMUNITY INVENTORY The community-wide GHG inventory assessed GHG emissions from the following 11 categories of activities, known as sectors. • Transportation is GHG emissions created by driving on-road vehicles in the unincorporated county, including passenger and freight vehicles. • Residential energy is GHG emissions attributed to the use of electricity, natural gas, and other home heating fuels in residential buildings. • Nonresidential energy is GHG emissions attributed to the use of electricity and natural gas in nonresidential buildings. • Solid waste is the GHG emissions released from trash collected in the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County, as well as collective annual emissions from waste already in place at the Acme, Keller Canyon, and West Contra Costa Landfills. • Agriculture is GHG emissions from various agricultural activities in the unincorporated county, including agricultural equipment, crop cultivation and harvesting, fertilizer application, and livestock operations. • Off-road equipment is GHG emissions from equipment that does not provide on-road transportation (excluding agricultural equipment), such as tractors for construction, or equipment used for landscape Total community-wide emissions declined 2418 percent from 2005 to 2019. Chapter 3 48 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 maintenance, commercial and industrial equipment, and outdoor recreational equipment. • Water and wastewater accounts for the electricity used to transport and process water and wastewater used or generated by unincorporated county residents and businesses, as well as direct emissions resulting from wastewater treatment activities. • Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) is GHG emissions associated with the operation of BART for unincorporated county residents. • Land use and sequestration is GHG emissions absorbed and stored in trees and soils on locally controlled lands as part of healthy ecosystems and released into the atmosphere from development of previously undeveloped land. • Stationary sources are emissions from fuel use at major industrial facilities, permitted by State and regional air quality authorities. These emissions are informational and are not counted as part of the community total. • Wildfire includes emissions released as a result of wildfires. These emissions are informational and are not counted as part of the community total. • Direct access electricity is electricity purchased directly from an Electric Service Provider (ESP) rather than an investor-owned utility company or Community Choice Energy provider such as MCE, generally to power large industrial, commercial, and institutional facilities. The community-wide emissions inventory also records emissions released via wildfire and stationary sources such as oil refineries. Emissions from stationary sources, wildfire, and direct access electricity These emissions are reported for informational purposes but are not formally counted as part of the unincorporated county’s GHG emissions. 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 49 Contra Costa County is home to large industrial facilities whose operations have generated significant GHG emissions and/or products that create GHGs, such as gasoline for internal combustion engines. Most of those facilities were constructed before land use permits from the County were required. If these facilities apply for new land use permits, the County can impose new operational requirements in some circumstances. An example of this is applications the County received in 2020 from two refineries to process renewable fuels. There are several factors outside of the County’s control that influence the operations and related emissions and energy use at these facilities. The County has therefore elected to exclude the direct emissions and energy use at these facilities from consideration of the County’s GHG reduction goals for the following reasons: • These facilities are regulated primarily through the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and the California Energy Commission (CEC) and are subject to air quality and emissions standards set forth by the USEPA, CARB, and BAAQMD. • The energy used at some of these facilities fluctuates from year to year, depending on the demand for resources and the availability of other electricity-generating sources, such as hydropower or renewable resources. This makes it difficult to accurately forecast the energy use at these facilities. • The County has limited jurisdictional authority to reduce GHG emissions from these sources because they are subject to cap-and-trade regulations set forth by CARB. • The approach to excluding energy from sources that are outside of the County’s jurisdictional control is consistent with the U.S. Community Protocol for Accounting and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions. • The resultant jurisdictional inventory more accurately reflects the energy use from nonresidential customers in unincorporated Contra Costa County and allows the County to focus on actions that are within its control. Large industrial customers frequently purchase direct access electricity. Direct access customers can purchase electricity from any Electric Service Provider (ESP) operating in the state. Different EPSs will rely on different power sources with different proportions of fossil and renewable energy to produce electricity. The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) regulates the sale of direct access electricity in California, and the identities of direct access customers and the specific ESPs from which they purchase electricity are not made Chapter 3 50 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 available to the public. Given the County’s limited ability to monitor and regulate the sale and use of direct access electricity, as well as historical inconsistences in how direct access electricity use is reported, direct access emissions are reported for informational purposes only. Table 3 and Figure 7 show the community-wide GHG emissions for the unincorporated county during the four inventory years. Total community-wide emissions declined 18 percent from 2005 to 2019. Table 4 shows the proportion of GHG emissions from each sector for the unincorporated county for the four inventory years. TABLE 3. ABSOLUTE ANNUAL GHG EMISSIONS, 2005 TO 2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005–2019 Transportation (excluding BART) 628,200 651,130 571,650 464,040 -26% Energy - Residential 294,930 280,870 212,420 191,780 -35% Energy - Nonresidential 118,740 125,350 98,8501 85,390 -28% Solid waste 243,940 224,570 223,100 220,760 -10% Agriculture 33,350 39,300 44,880 36,130 8% Off-road equipment 34,160 36,290 42,840 54,010 58% Water and wastewater 8,080 7,400 4,400 4,870 -40% BART 1,040 1,320 1,440 190 -82% Land use and sequestration -70,860 -70,860 -70,860 -70,860 0% Total Annual MTCO2e 1,291,580 1,295,370 1,128,720 986,310 -24% Informational Items Stationary sources 13,983,030 11,956,000 11,232,290 10,867,670 -22% Wildfire 14,270 66,080 02 10,100 N/A3 Direct access electricity 04 04 04 74,130 N/A Note: All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. 1 Estimates of nonresidential electricity use in 2013 are used in 2017 to account for a lack of available data in 2017. 2 No wildfires were recorded in the unincorporated county in 2017. 3 Overall change between 2005 and 2019 for wildfire is not calculated because of the high degree of year-to- year variability. 4 PG&E did not provide direct access electricity use data in these years. 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 51 FIGURE 7. ABSOLUTE ANNUAL GHG EMISSIONS BY SECTOR, 2005 TO 2019 TABLE 4. PROPORTION OF GHG EMISSIONS, 2005 TO 2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 Transportation 49% 50% 51% 47% Energy - Residential 23% 22% 19% 19% Energy - Nonresidential 9% 10% 9% 9% Solid waste 19% 17% 20% 22% Agriculture 3% 3% 4% 4% Off-road equipment 3% 3% 4% 5% Water and wastewater 1% 1% Less than 1% Less than 1% BART Less than 1% Less than 1% Less than 1% Less than 1% Land use and sequestration -5% -5% -6% -7% Total Annual MTCO2e 100% 100% 100% 100% Note: Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows due to rounding. -200,000 0 200,000 400,000 600,000 800,000 1,000,000 1,200,000 1,400,000 1,600,000 2005 2013 2017 2019GHG Emissions (MTCO2e)Year Residential Energy Nonresidential Energy Transportation Solid Waste BART Off-road Equipment Water and Wastewater Agriculture Land Use and Sequestration Chapter 3 52 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 The transportation sector has consistently been the largest source of GHG emissions in the unincorporated county, accounting for between 476 and 513 percent of total community- wide GHG emissions (excluding informational items). Residential and nonresidential energy combined are the second-largest source of emissions, comprising 28 to 32 percent of community-wide emissions. Of the energy-related emissions, approximately 70 percent come from residential buildings and 30 from nonresidential buildings. In both building types, most emissions are associated with natural gas use. Solid waste is the third-largest source of emissions, accounting for between 17 and 22 percent of the community-wide total. Residential energy and solid waste are the second- and third-largest sources of GHG emissions, followed by nonresidential energy. Agriculture GHG emissions account for between 3 and 4 percent, and off-road equipment accounts for between 3 and 5 percent. GHG emissions from the water and wastewater and BART sectors are each 1 percent or less. The sectors that experienced the largest decrease in annual GHG emissions between 2005 and 2019 were BART (82 percent), water and wastewater (40 percent), residential energy (35 percent), nonresidential energy (28 percent), and transportation (26 percent). Collectively, emissions from energy use declined 33 percent over this time period. Emissions reductions also occurred in the solid waste sector (10 percent). and the nonresidential energy sector (8 percent). These changes are primarily due to an increase in renewable and carbon-free electricity, the County joining MCE in 2017 (which provides more electricity from renewable and carbon-free sources than PG&E), and better resource- efficiency practices by community members. Emissions reductions also occurred in the solid waste sector (10 percent). Threewo sectors nonresidential energy, off-road equipment, and agriculture saw increases in their emissions from 2005 to 2019. Between 2005 and 2019, offroad emissions increased by 58 percent. Increases in offroad emissions are due to increased emissions from agricultural and other types of commercial and industrial equipment. Agricultural emissions increased due to changes in crop activity and livestock population. Detailed summaries of changes in GHG emissions by sector appear in Appendix B. The transportation sector has consistently been the largest source of GHG emissions in unincorporated Contra Costa County. The sectors that experienced the largest decrease in annual GHG emissions between 2005 and 2019 were BART, water and wastewater, residential energy, and transportation. 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 53 Per-person GHG emissions Along with the “absolute” GHG emission levels discussed previously, the project team assessed the per-person GHG emissions from the unincorporated county. The team calculates per-person GHG emissions by taking the absolute GHG emissions in Table 3 and dividing them by the number of residents in the unincorporated county for that inventory year. Table 5 and Figure 8 show the per-person emissions for the inventory years for the unincorporated county. Overall, per-person emissions declined 3227 percent from 2005 to 2019. Because the population of the unincorporated county grew during this time, most sectors saw their per- person emissions decline. Even for sectors that had increases in their absolute emissions, such as Agriculture, population growth resulted in a decline in per-person emissions. Only per-capita off-road equipment emissions increased between 2005 and 2019. The two sectors that saw an increase in per-person emissions were Off-road equipment, and Nonresidential energy, although the per-person emissions grew by 53 percent from 2005 to 2019 compared to a 73 percent increase in absolute emissions. TABLE 5. PER-PERSON GHG EMISSIONS, 2005 TO 2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005–2019 Population Residents 154,270 165,700 174,110 174,150 13% Emissions (MTCO2e per-person) Transportation 4.07 3.93 3.28 2.66 -35% Energy - Residential 1.91 1.70 1.22 1.10 -42% Energy - Nonresidential 0.77 0.76 0.57 0.49 -36% Solid waste 1.58 1.36 1.28 1.27 -20% Agriculture 0.22 0.24 0.26 0.21 -4% Off-road equipment 0.22 0.22 0.25 0.31 53% Water and wastewater 0.05 0.04 0.03 0.03 -47% BART 0.01 0.01 0.01 Less than 0.01 -84% Land use and sequestration -0.46 -0.43 -0.41 -0.41 -11% Chapter 3 54 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005–2019 Total Annual (MTCO2e per-person) 8.37 7.82 6.48 5.66 -32% Informational Items Stationary Sources 90.64 72.15 64.51 62.40 -31% Wildfire 0.09 0.40 0.00 0.06 N/A1* Direct access electricity 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.44 N/A2** Note: All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. 1 Overall change between 2005 and 2019 is not calculated because of the high degree of year-to-year variability. 2 Overall change between 2005 and 2019 is not calculated because of limited availability of direct access electricity use data between 2005 and 2017. FIGURE 8. PER-PERSON ANNUAL GHG EMISSIONS BY SECTOR, 2005 TO 2019 -2.0 0.0 2.0 4.0 6.0 8.0 10.0 2005 2013 2017 2019 GHG Emissions (MTCO2e per person)Year Transportation Solid Waste Residential Energy Nonresidential Energy Off-road Equipment Agriculture Water and Wastewater BART Land Use and Sequestration 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 55 The typical resident in Contra Costa County… …uses about 4,610 kWh of electricity annually. …uses about 200 therms of natural gas each year. …drives about 6,530 miles annually. …throws out about 910 pounds of trash each year. …uses about 46,000 gallons of water annually. COUNTY GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS EMISSIONS INVENTORY Contra Costa County conducted government operations emissions inventories in 2006 and 2017. 8 In 2006, Contra Costa County government operations emissions totaled 54,130 MTCO2e for the sectors reported in this inventory (see Table 6). In 2017, County government operations GHG emissions were 43,380 MTCO2e, a 20 percent decrease from 2006. This decrease is primarily the result of reductions in energy use, reductions in County Fleet emissions, and reductions in government-generated solid waste. The 2017 inventory also includes emissions from Wastewater Treatment and Refrigerants, which were not included in the 2006 inventory. In summary: 8 The budget for the 2024 CAAP included one County operations inventory. The County operations inventory will be updated on a regular basis, along with the community-wide inventory. In 2017, GHG emissions from County government operations were 43,380 MTCO2e, a 20 percent decrease from 2006. This decrease is primarily the result of reductions in energy use, reductions in County fleet emissions, and reductions in government-generated solid waste. Chapter 3 56 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 • The largest source of emissions in 2017 is from the Employee Commute sector (25,800 MTCO2e). In the 2006 inventory, Employee Commute is also the largest contributor of GHG emissions (23,530 MTCO2e). • Significant emissions also originate from the Buildings and Facilities sector (12,500 MTCO2e in 2017) and Government (County) Fleet (3,430 MTCO2e in 2017). • Emissions from every sector except for Employee Commute decreased between 2006 and 2017. There was a 10 percent increase in GHG emissions related to Employee Commute over this time. • The greatest reduction in the amount of emissions was in the Buildings and Facilities sector (–6,760 MTCO2e), followed by Government (County) Fleet sector (–5,070 MTCO2e), and Solid Waste (–1,070 MTCO2e). • The number of County employees increased by 19 percent from 2006, accounting for 1,335 new positions in 2017. • County employee transportation VMT increased, although this increase was slightly offset by improvements in vehicle efficiency. As a result, overall employee commute emissions increased 10 percent from 2006 to 2017. • Energy usage in Buildings and Facilities as well as the Public Lighting sector emissions decreased overall due in large part to lower utility electricity emissions factors and energy efficiency. • Annual solid waste volumes decreased. Figure 9 compares 2017 GHG emissions to the 2006 baseline GHG emissions for the County operations inventory. Local Energy Providers As of January 2024, approximately 88.7 percent of customers in unincorporated Contra Costa County are buying electricity from MCE, a not-for-profit clean energy provider. Approximately 7.1 percent of these accounts, equating to 4,422 accounts, are enrolled in MCE’s Deep Green electricity service, which provides electricity from 100 percent renewable energy. As a result of MCE’s generation services, an estimated 3,485.73 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent were reduced in the unincorporated areas of the county in 2023. PG&E provides electricity to most of the remaining customers, as well as providing natural gas to all customers. Some large industrial facilities receive electricity from third-party providers. Some residents heat their homes using propane, kerosene, or wood. 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 57 FIGURE 9. 2006 BASELINE AND 2017 COUNTY OPERATIONS GHG EMISSIONS SUMMARY TABLE 6. 2006 BASELINE AND 2017 COUNTY OPERATIONS GHG EMISSIONS SUMMARY SECTOR 2006 GHG EMISSIONS (MTCO2E) 2017 GHG EMISSIONS (MTCO2E) PERCENTAGE CHANGE Employee commute 23,530 25,800 10% Buildings and facilities 19,260 12,500 -35% Government fleet 8,500 3,430 -60% Government-generated solid waste 1,980 900 -54% Public lighting 830 440 -47% Water and wastewater Not included 220 — Refrigerants Not included 90 — Total 54,090 43,380 -20% Notes: These inventories assume 8,420 County employees in 2006 and 10,030 employees in 2017, a 19% increase. All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not add up to the sum of individual rows due to rounding. 0 10,000 20,000 30,000 40,000 50,000 60,000 2006 2017GHG emissions (MTCO2e)Employee commute Buildings and facilities Government fleet Government-generated solid waste Public lighting Water and wastewater Refrigerants Chapter 3 58 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 Many factors contribute to changes in GHG emissions. Key factors may include changes in electricity and natural gas use, the proportion of electricity obtained from carbon-free sources, VMT, vehicle fuel efficiency, landfilled waste tonnage, temperature (affecting heating and cooling demand), and demographic changes (e.g., changes in population, household, and job numbers). Sector-specific descriptions of sources of and changes in GHG emissions are provided in Appendix B. CONSUMPTION-BASED INVENTORY EMISSIONS The community-wide GHG inventory presented for the unincorporated county is a protocol-compliant, production-based inventory, which means that it assesses the GHG emissions produced by activities occurring in the community. However, the inventory does not account for most of the emissions created by the consumption of food or material goods or use of services in the unincorporated county, including emissions from the manufacture and transportation of goods purchased in the community, food grown and processed in other locations, air travel by unincorporated Contra Costa County community members, and the disposal or reprocessing of certain materials and products. For example, if someone who lives or works in an unincorporated county community purchases new clothes, the production-based inventory will include vehicle emissions for the trip to and from the store, energy use at the store and home, and any landfilled waste generated. It would not include emissions from the growing and processing of the raw materials in the clothes, the manufacturing of the clothes, transportation of the clothes to the store, or the reprocessing of any waste materials that do not end up in a landfill, unless these activities occur within the unincorporated county. In contrast to a production-based inventory, a second type of GHG inventory, known as a consumption-based inventory, looks at a wider array of GHG emissions created by the goods and services used by unincorporated county community members, including residents, businesses, and employees. A consumption-based inventory assesses emissions associated with the manufacture, transportation, and disposal of these goods and services regardless of where they occur. Such inventories can provide a more complete picture of the GHG emissions associated with the lifestyle and consumer behavior of unincorporated county community members. A consumption-based inventory assesses emissions associated with the manufacture, transportation, and disposal of these goods and services regardless of where they occur. 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 59 A consumption-based inventory is more complex to prepare than a production-based inventory. There are not established protocols and methods for consumption-based inventories, and California does not yet have a statewide consumption-based inventory or any guidance for preparing one. Due to these limitations, the project team did not prepare one as part of this 2024 CAAP. In 2015, BAAQMD worked with the Cool Climate Network at the University of California, Berkeley, to prepare a consumption-based inventory for all Bay Area jurisdictions. This inventory includes GHG emissions from the following sources: • Travel: GHG emissions from fuel use by on-road vehicles, vehicle manufacturing and repairs, public transportation, and air travel. • Housing: GHG emissions from electricity and natural gas use in homes as well as other fuels associated with home heating (such as kerosene or fuel oil), electricity emissions from water and wastewater activities, and waste emissions. This category also includes emissions from the manufacture, transportation, and construction and demolition of materials used to construct houses. • Food: GHG emissions from the growth, processing/manufacturing, and transportation of food products. • Goods: GHG emissions from the manufacture, transportation, and disposal of consumer products, such as home furnishings, appliances and electronics, clothing, and healthcare and personal items. • Services: GHG emissions from personal and business services, including entertainment and recreation, communication, education, healthcare, and maintenance and repair activities. Some of these GHG emission sources are also included in the production-based inventory prepared as part of the 2024 CAAP, and others are covered by either the production-based or consumption-based inventory but not both. According to the consumption-based inventory, transportation is responsible for 15.5 MTCO2e per household, or 34 percent of emissions produced by activities conducted and goods consumed within unincorporated Contra Costa County. Food is responsible for 8.79 MTCO2e per household (19 percent), goods and services for 7.89 MTCO2e per household and 7.97 MTCO2e per household, respectively (17 percent each), and housing for 6.18 MTCO2e per household, or 13 percent (see Figure 10). Chapter 3 60 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 FIGURE 10. CONSUMPTION-BASED GHG EMISSIONS INVENTORY RESULTS While the 2024 CAAP does not directly speak to the goods and services used and offered by residents, business, and industry, the Contra Costa County community should recognize the role that consumption patterns play in achieving the County’s sustainability and climate goals. 15.50 6.18 8.76 7.89 7.97 0 10 20 30 40 50 GHG emissions (MTCO2e per Household) Transportation Housing Food Goods Services 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 61 GHG Emissions and Food Consumption Food production, transport, storage, cooking, and waste are substantial contributors to GHG emissions, accounting for approximately 30 percent of emissions globally. These emissions include carbon dioxide, from fossil fuels used to power farm machinery and to transport, store, and cook foods; methane, released by animals as part of their digestive process; and nitrous oxide, released from tilled and fertilized soils. The majority of the emissions associated with food consumption occur outside of Contra Costa County. Different food groups are associated with different levels of GHG emissions. Animal-based products are generally responsible for significantly greater emissions than plant-based products per unit weight. Emissions are released during multiple stages of the meat-producing process, including the cultivation of cereal crops to use as animal feed, which may require the conversion of existing forestland; during the animal digestive process; and during the decomposition of animal wastes. Emissions are also generated during the meat storage, processing, and transportation process. Plant-based foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, and lentils, typically require fewer resources to cultivate. According to the consumption-based inventory, meat is responsible for approximately 30 percent of diet-related GHG emissions within unincorporated Contra Costa County. Research has also found that healthier diets tend to be associated with lower GHG emissions. Fostering awareness of the connection between food choices and the environment can therefore be an effective way of lowering GHG emissions and promoting healthy lifestyles. The 2024 CAAP and General Plan help reduce emissions associated with food consumption by including policies to support local food production and equitable access to healthy food. Sources: Clune S, Crossin E, Verghese K (2017). Systematic review of greenhouse gas emissions for different fresh food categories. Journal of Cleaner Production 140(2): https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0959652616303584. Rippin HL, Cade JE, Berrang-Ford L, Benton TG, Hancock N, Greenwood DC (2021). Variations in greenhouse gas emissions of individual diets: Associations between the greenhouse gas emissions and nutrient intake in the United Kingdom. PLoS ONE 16(11): e0259418. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0259418. Scarborough P, Appleby PN, Mizdrak A, Briggs ADM, Travis RC, Bradbury KE, Key TJ (2014). Dietary greenhouse gas emissions of meat-eaters, fish-eaters, vegetarians, and vegans in the UK. Climate Change 125(2): 179-192. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4372775/ Chapter 3 62 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 GHG Forecast The following sections present the results of the community-wide and County operations GHG emissions forecasts for the years 2030 and 2045. For a detailed description of GHG forecast methods and assumptions, see Appendix B. ABSOLUTE BUSINESS-AS-USUAL GHG EMISSIONS FORECAST Table 7 and Figure 11 show an estimate of unincorporated Contra Costa County’s projected future GHG emissions if no further action is taken at the state, regional, or local level to reduce emissions, relative to the 2019 inventory. These projections are obtained by applying projected changes in community population to resource use and transportation behavior recorded in 2019. As such, these projections do not account for any potential changes in transportation or resource use directly resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, the long-term effects of which are not currently known. Most sectors show an increase in GHG emissions due to the growing population. Agricultural emissions decrease because the amount of land used for agricultural purposes is projected to decline. Although the land use and sequestration sector is expected to remain a net carbon sink (negative emissions), the amount of emissions sequestered (removed from the atmosphere) by the activities in this sector are projected to decline. This is due to anticipated development of currently undeveloped land, removing the potential for this land to sequester, or store, carbon. Sequestration in forested and urbanized areas is projected to increase slightly. TABLE 7. ABSOLUTE BUSINESS-AS-USUAL GHG EMISSIONS FORECAST, 2019 TO 2045 SECTOR 2019 2030 2045 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2019–2045 Transportation 464,040 542,020 605,080 30% Energy - Residential 191,780 217,710 259,380 35% Energy - Nonresidential 85,590 93,590 106,070 24% Solid waste 220,760 229,450 260,490 18% Agriculture 36,130 34,770 33,410 -8% Off-road equipment 54,010 69,520 76,100 41% Water and wastewater 4,870 5,530 6,590 35% BART 190 220 260 37% Land use and sequestration -70,860 -67,580 -58,890 -17% Total Annual MTCO2e 986,310 1,125,230 1,288,490 31% 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 63 FIGURE 11. ABSOLUTE BUSINESS-AS-USUAL GHG EMISSIONS FORECAST, 2019 TO 2045 -200,000 0 200,000 400,000 600,000 800,000 1,000,000 1,200,000 1,400,000 1,600,000 2019 2030 2045GHG Emissions (MTCO2e)Year Transportation Solid Waste Residential Energy Nonresidential Energy Off-road Equipment Agriculture Water and Wastewater BART Land Use and Sequestration Chapter 3 64 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 This page intentionally left blank. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 65 4. G REENHOUSE G AS EMISSION REDUCTION STRATEGY 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Briones Valley. Photo credit: Stephen Joseph. GHG Emissions Reduction Goals A key part of any CAAP is one or more goals for future GHG emissions levels. These goals may be “firm” levels of GHG emission reductions supported by State regulations and local commitments (also called regulatory goals) or aspirations that go beyond adopted minimums and represent a higher level of GHG emission reductions that communities can strive toward. The 2024 CAAP includes GHG emission reduction goals for 2030 and 2045. As discussed in Chapter 2, California has two statewide regulatory goals for reduction of GHGs: • Reduce GHG emissions to 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030. This goal was codified into law by SB 32. • Reduce emissions to 85 percent below 1990 levels and achieve net carbon neutrality by 2045. This is the goal codified by AB 1279. Chapter 4 66 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 The 2022 Scoping Plan recommends that local governments support statewide efforts to achieve net carbon neutrality by achieving an 85 percent reduction in GHG emissions compared to 1990 by 2045. The 2022 Scoping Plan also removes specific goals for per- person emissions reductions that appeared in previous versions. The BAAQMD 2020 CEQA Guidelines,13 CEQA Thresholds for Evaluating the Significance of Climate Impacts from Land Use Projects and Plans, require that local climate action plans such as the 2024 CAAP be consistent with these State-level goals. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY’S GHG EMISSION REDUCTION GOALS Local GHG emissions reduction efforts, such as this 2024 CAAP, may select any GHG emissions reduction goals that are appropriate for unincorporated Contra Costa County. However, to comply with State and regional guidelines for CEQA, the GHG emission reduction goals in the 2024 CAAP should be broadly consistent with the State-level goals. Additionally, the 2045 General Plan informs the County’s land use decisions and related policies out to 2045; therefore, consistency with the State’s 2045 goal also aligns with the General Plan’s horizon year. Given these considerations, the GHG emissions reduction goals for Contra Costa County are: • Reduce GHG emissions to 658,700 MTCO2e by 2030. • Reduce GHG emissions to 164,680 MTCO2e by 2045. Table 8 and Figure 12 show these emission goals and how they compare to the County’s projected business-as-usual GHG emissions in Chapter 3. TABLE 8. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY BUSINESS-AS-USUAL GHG EMISSIONS FORECAST AND EMISSION GOALS, 2019 TO 2045 2019 2030 2045 Business-as-usual forecast GHG emissions 986,310 MTCO2e 1,125,230 MTCO2e 1,288,490 MTCO2e Goal N/A 658,700 MTCO2e 164,680 MTCO2e GHG emissions to be reduced N/A 466,530 MTCO2e 1,123,810 MTCO2e 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 67 FIGURE 12. BUSINESS-AS-USUAL FORECAST GHG EMISSIONS AND REDUCTION GOALS Existing and Planned GHG Emissions Reduction Efforts The County must substantially reduce its GHG emissions to achieve its goals. Fortunately, the State of California and regional and local agencies there are already have several efforts in place or planned at the State and regional level that are expected to reduce GHG emissions in the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County without the County taking additional action. The County can receive “credit” for the level of GHG emissions reduced locally by these existing and planned efforts. STATE REDUCTION EFFORTS California has adopted and committed to implementing policies to decrease GHG emission levels statewide, including from several of the major GHG emission sources in the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County. Many of these policies are identified in the 2008 Scoping Plan and have been revised and expanded by successive updates. - 200,000 400,000 600,000 800,000 1,000,000 1,200,000 1,400,000 2005 2019 2030 2045GHG Emissions (MTCO2e)Baseline emissions Business-as-usual forecast emissions Goal emissions Emission reductions needed Chapter 4 68 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 The CARB Scoping Plan and related documents lay out several State-led policies to reduce GHG emissions, but six policies have a direct and apparent GHG emission reduction benefit to unincorporated Contra Costa County: tThe Renewables Portfolio Standard (RPS), Clean Car Standards, Title 24 building energy efficiency standards, the Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS), the Short-Lived Climate Pollutant Reduction Strategy, and Renewable Natural Gas. An in-depth description of these initiatives and their projected GHG emission savings are provided in Appendix B. Because these are State-led programs, Contra Costa County will not be involved in their implementation or regulation. 1. The Renewables Portfolio Standard requires increases in renewable and carbon-free electricity supplies. 2. The Clean Car Standards require increased fuel efficiency of on-road vehicles and decreased carbon intensity of vehicle fuels. 3. The updated Title 24 building energy efficiency standards require new buildings to achieve increased energy-efficiency goals, and in some cases to install rooftop solar panels. The latest version of these standards went into effect January 1, 2023. 4. The Low Carbon Fuel Standard mandates reduced carbon intensity of fuels used in off-road equipment. 5. The Short-Lived Climate Pollutant Reduction Strategy, also known as SB 1383, requires that jurisdictions provide organic waste collection services, recover edible food, and keep most organic waste out of landfills. 6. Renewable Natural Gas assumes that biomethane and renewable hydrogen fuels will be blended into the fossil gas pipeline and that, in the 2030s, dedicated hydrogen pipelines will be constructed to serve certain industrial clusters. The project team estimated GHG savings from the Clean Car Standards using State modeling tools released in 2021. These models do not consider newer State regulations to accelerate the transition to zero-emission vehicles, and so they do not reflect all the expected GHG reductions from zero-emission vehicles in Contra Costa County. The remaining savings are covered in Strategy TR-2, which is discussed later in this chapter. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 69 REGIONAL AND LOCAL REDUCTION EFFORTS In addition to State actions, the County’s default electricity provider, MCE, has also taken action to reduce the GHG emissions from the electricity it supplies to unincorporated Contra Costa County community members, beyond the minimum required by the RPS. In 2019, MCE electricity was approximately 60 percent renewable and 90 percent carbon- free. In future years, MCE will work to source 95 percent of its electricity from carbon-free sources. When quantifying the emissions impacts from electricity procurement policies, GHG emissions reductions from RPS are considered first. The County also enacted an all- electric reach code (suspended in February 2024, as discussed in Chapter 1), which required many types of new buildings to not use natural gas. The reductions from MCE clean energy procurement and the all-electric reach code shown in Table 9 represent savings obtained after the effects of the RPS have been considered. Table 9 shows the GHG emissions reduction potential from the State-level efforts, and MCE’s energy procurement plans and projected levels of adoption of MCE Deep Green, and the all- electric reach code. as well asThis table also shows how unincorporated Contra Costa County’s GHG emission levels with these reductions compares to the goals discussed previously. TABLE 9. GHG EMISSION REDUCTIONS FROM EXISTING AND PLANNED STATE, REGIONAL, AND LOCAL ACTIONS, 2019 TO 2045 2019 MTCO2E 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E Forecast emissions without existing and planned actions 986,310 1,125,230 1,288,490 Reductions from RPS - -3,640 -41,270 Reductions from Clean Car standards - -110,250 -214,120 Reductions from Title 24 - -9,880 -31,600 Reductions from LCFS (off-road only) * - 740 7,430 Reductions from SB 1383 -21,880 -53,870 Reductions from renewable natural gas - -18,460 -78,050 Reductions from MCE clean energy procurement - -1,240 - Reductions from all-electric reach code (suspended February 2024) - -3,150 -2,590 Reductions from all existing and planned state, regional, and local actions -188,740 -488,200 Remaining emissions with existing and planned state, regional, and local actions 986,310 957,470 874,420 *Due to how the off-road equipment emissions from LCFS are calculated, the results show a minor increase in emissions from this sector. Chapter 4 70 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 New Reduction Strategies To Achieve Our Goals The 2024 CAAP uses a process called quantification to determine the amount of GHG emissions reduced by each strategy. The foundation for the quantification calculations is the baseline GHG inventory and forecast. Activity data from the inventory, such as VMT or kilowatt-hours, are combined with participation rates and data about the reduction in activity data from each action to calculate the GHG emissions reduction benefit of each strategy. This approach ensures that the GHG emissions reductions from the 2024 CAAP strategies are tied to current and future community activities. See Appendix B for additional quantification details for each strategy, including key assumptions and performance targets. Calculations for reduction in activity data come from tools and reports provided by government agencies; these agencies include the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), California Energy Commission (CEC), California Air Resources Board (CARB), California Air Pollution Control Officers Association, US Department of Energy, and local air districts. If accurate data are not available through these sources, quantification uses case studies from comparable communities and applicable scholarly research. This 2024 CAAP identifies GHG emissions reductions for most of the strategies. However, there are a few that do not have a specific reduction level due to missing data or the lack of reliable methodology. These efforts are still expected to reduce GHG emissions, but by how much cannot be accurately determined. These strategies are labeled “supportive”. Strategies that only reduce electricity use or increase renewable electricity supplies will show zero GHG emissions reductions in 2045. This is because the State’s RPS requires all electricity sold in California to be carbon-free by 2045. Because there will already be no emissions from electricity use in 2045, Contra Costa County cannot count additional reductions associated with electricity in this year. This 2024 CAAP already credits reductions from the RPS as an existing State program. Strategy BE-3 is not expected to result in any GHG savings in 2045 due to the State’s RPS requirements. With the 2024 CAAP in place, the following are projected to occur before 2045: • Average natural gas use per household will decline by 92 percent. • The average resident will drive 15 percent fewer miles per year. • The average resident will generate 18 percent less solid waste. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 71 Local renewable energy systems and energy efficiency strategies will continue to provide several co-benefits to communities, including lower electricity bills and increased resiliency against power disruptions, even if there are no measurable additional GHG emissions reductions. The County recognizes the opportunity for microgrids, if they are found to be technically and economically feasible, both by the private sector and for County facilities. GHG EMISSIONS REDUCTION STRATEGIES This section presents the presents 28 11 climate action strategies , including 11 that make up the County’s GHG emissions reduction approach. These strategies include a mix of education and outreach programs to encourage GHG emissions reduction activities, financial subsidies, and other enticements to incentivize GHG emissions reductions and mandates to require GHG emissions reductions. In addition to the 11 climate action strategies presented in this section, The remainingan additional 17 strategies make up the 2024 CAAP’s adaptation and resilience approach (discussed in Chapter 5) and the implementation approach (discussed in Chapter 6). More information on how these strategies were developed is provided in Appendix B. The 11 GHG emissions reduction strategies are organized into five categories, each with a goal: Clean and Efficient Built Environment (BE) No Waste Contra Costa (NW) Reduce Water Use and Increase Drought Resilience (DR) Clean Transportation Network (CT) Climate Equity (CE) Each strategy presented in this 2024 CAAP includes a description of the strategy, an estimate of the absolute 2030 and 2045 GHG emissions reductions anticipated from the strategy at the projected performance level, the recommended actions necessary to implement it, and community co-benefits. For additional implementation details for each strategy, see Table 12. Chapter 4 72 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 Recommended actions represent the County’s current understanding of best practices in achieving GHG emissions reductions and community equity, availability of technology, and local regulations as well as the current State and federal regulatory environment. County staff will revisit these recommended actions as conditions change and new opportunities become available. Figure 13 provides definitions of goals, strategies, and actions, as used in this CAAP. During the time the CAAP was under development, some of the actions were completed. These actions are included below, to facilitate tracking of the ongoing progress Contra Costa County is making in achieving its climate action goals. FIGURE 13. DEFINING A CAAP GOAL, STRATEGY, AND ACTION CAAP Goal: An end statement describing the general result sought by the community. Each goal has associated strategies and actions. Goals are given abbreviations based on their topic (for example, TR for Transportation). CAAP Strategy: A specific statement to guide decision making as the County works to achieve the GHG reduction targets and climate action goals. Strategies are statements of policy and intent. Each strategy is supported by a series of actions. Strategies are numbered based on the goal they fall under (for example, BE-2 is the second strategy under the Built Environment goal). CAAP Action: A recommended measure, program, procedure, or technique to implement the associated strategy. Actions are concrete steps for the County to take, in collaboration with community members and key partners. They are not a comprehensive list of everything the County can do to implement the strategy. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 73 Community co-benefits are additional advantages of the strategy to communities beyond GHG emissions reduction. The 2024 CAAP highlights 12 co-benefits that a GHG emissions reduction strategy can provide, although strategies may provide additional benefits beyond those identified here: Cost savings Enhanced recreation opportunities Greater community resilience Greater energy independence Improved air quality Improved community equity Improved public health Increased economic opportunities Increased resilience to pests Reduced disaster effects Reduced landfill waste Reduced resource use Chapter 4 74 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 General Plan alignment The goals, strategies, and recommended implementation actions in this CAAP are in sync with the approach to reduce GHG emissions and address climate adaptation contained in the County’s 2045 General Plan, which is discussed in greater detail in Chapter 1. Where appropriate, the strategy language in the 2024 CAAP is identical to policy or action language in the General Plan. In other instances, the General Plan language provides a high-level framework for the more specific strategy wording in the 2024 CAAP. There are also cross-references in the 2024 CAAP at the end of relevant actions, indicating where the General Plan addresses the same topic. Each cross-reference is made up of three parts: (1) a General Plan abbreviation, (2) a designation of a policy or action, and (3) the number of the referred policy or action. The cross-references use the following abbreviations for General Plan elements. Note that not all General Plan elements are cross-referenced in the 2024 CAAP, and so are not listed here: • COS: Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands • HS: Health and Safety • SC: Stronger Communities • PFS: Public Facilities and Services • GM: Growth Management A cross-reference containing an element abbreviation followed by “P” refers to a policy, while a cross-reference containing an element abbreviation “A” refers to an action. This designation is then followed by two numbers. The first number is the goal under which the policy or action may be found. The second number is the number of the policy or action under that goal. For example, a cross-reference to HS-P8.3 refers to the Health and Safety Element, Goal 8, and the third policy under that goal. Similarly, COS-A14.4 refers to the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element, Goal 14, and the fourth action under that goal. This approach is intended to help ensure consistency between the General Plan and the 2024 CAAP, making it clear that both documents work together to address GHG reductions and improve resilience to climate change. In addition to policies in the General Plan that provide direction on specific topics that are relevant to the 2024 CAAP, there are three policies that address overarching issues in the 2024 CAAP. These three policies are contained in the Health and Safety Element of the General Plan. All three fall under Goal HS-3. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 75 General Plan Policy HS-P3.1 Prioritize implementation of the Contra Costa County Climate Action and Adaptation Plan to reduce GHG emissions from community-wide sources and adapt to changing climate conditions. General Plan Policy HS-P3.2 Facilitate carbon-neutral development projects and communities that support a circular economy, net-zero-emission modes of transportation, reliable and renewable energy resources, energy-efficient buildings, zero waste, water efficiency and conservation, green infrastructure, soil conservation, and a system of natural and working lands that support natural carbon sequestration and climate resilience. General Plan Policy HS-P3.3 Require new development projects using the Contra Costa County Climate Action and Adaptation Plan to streamline their environmental review of GHG emissions, as permitted by CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5, to demonstrate consistency with the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan and incorporate applicable GHG reduction and climate change adaptation measures. These three policies, along with the more specific General Plan policies cross-referenced in the following sections, support the development and implementation of the 2024 CAAP. General Plan Goal HS-3 Communities that reduce existing and anticipated greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in support of statewide carbon neutrality goals and other GHG reduction targets. Chapter 4 76 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CLEAN AND EFFICIENT BUILT ENVIRONMENT (BE) HOMES, WORKPLACES, AND BUSINESSES IN UNINCORPORATED CONTRA COSTA COUNTY RUN EFFICIENTLY ON CLEAN ENERGY . Homes and commercial buildings in Contra Costa County. The structure of the built environment plays a significant role in how members of the Contra Costa County community work, play, live, and allocate personal resources. Community decisions about the structure, form, and function of homes, businesses, and other vital community structures represent a significant, long-term investment in a particular way of living life and conducting business. The built environment uses a significant amount of energy and is responsible for a large share of Contra Costa County’s GHG emissions. However, as shown in Figure 14, increasing the proportion of communities’ energy mix that comes from carbon-free and renewable sources can dramatically reduce emissions resulting from electricity use within buildings. These strategies, combined with investing in energy- efficient buildings and retrofits, and reducing the resource intensity of building materials will reduce GHG emissions and energy use. These efforts can also reduce utility costs, improve local air quality, and make the neighborhoods of Contra Costa County more resilient, comfortable, and habitable in the face of the effects of climate change. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 77 FIGURE 14. EMISSIONS PRODUCED PER KWH OF ELECTRICITY, MCE AND PG&E BE-1: Require and incentivize new buildings and additions built in unincorporated Contra Costa County to be low-carbon or carbon neutral. Under this strategy, there will be more new carbon- neutral and low-carbon buildings in unincorporated Contra Costa County through efforts to build all- electric new construction and use carbon- neutral/low-carbon building materials. This strategy builds on the County’s existing previously adopted All-Electric Building Ordinance, which was suspended in February 2024 because of a federal court ruling in January 2024 that precludes cities and counties from adopting ordinances that prohibit the installation of gas plumbing in buildings. This ordinance which requires required that all new residential (including single-family homes, multifamily buildings, and accessory dwelling units), hotels, office buildings, and retail buildings to be all- electric. These buildings may notwere not permitted to have natural gas plumbing, and they must had to use electricity as the sole source of energy for space heating (including indoor and outdoor spaces), water heating (including 0.000000 0.000020 0.000040 0.000060 0.000080 0.000100 0.000120 2017 2019 2030 2040 2045GHG emissions (MTCO2e/kWh)Electricity (PG&E)Electricity (MCE) Contra Costa County’s Administration Building and Jail Demolition and Redevelopment Project is the County’s first True Resource Use and Efficiency (TRUE) pre-certified project. The project incorporated used furniture and office supplies and other salvaged materials; over 90 percent of building materials were diverted materials. The project is the first government construction project in the world to achieve TRUE precertification. Chapter 4 78 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 heating of indoor or outdoor pools and spas), cooking appliances, and clothes drying appliances. Such buildings may were allowed to use emergency backup power sources that are fossil-fuel operated. This ordinance must needed be updated when the County adopts a new version of the California Energy Code every three years. The County is preparing a new ordinance to replace its suspended all-electric ordinance committed to renewing finding an alternative to this ordinance in future yearsthat will support high levels of energy efficiency and low levels of GHG emissions for new construction. This ordinance is expected to take effect on January 1, 2025, and will be considered for updates during future revisions to the Building Standards Code. 2030 2045 GHG emissions reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 4,34013,620 10,970710 Strategy BE-1 Co-benefits: Cost savings Improved air quality Improved community equity Improved public health Increased economic opportunities Increased resilience to pests Reduced resource use Strategy BE-1 Actions: ▪ Continue Consider a,Aadoptinging new or modified reach codes and consider future updates that exceed the California Building Standards Code as the State updates the Building Code every three years, to require the use of lower-carbon intensive energy sources, to achieve higher feasible levels of energy conservation and efficiencyperformance, and to achieve lower feasible levels of GHG emissions. (COS- A14.4) ▪ Maintain, update, andpPublicize and enforce the County Oordinances and programs Code Title 7 – Building Regulations amendment requiring new residential buildings, hotels, offices, and retail to be all-electricmore energy efficient, with low levels of GHG emissions. Evaluate the feasibility of including other building types as appropriate. (COS- A14.5) 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 79 ▪ Partner with community groups and MCE to establish an induction cooktop loaner program for county residents. ▪ Require new water heaters and space heating and cooling systems to be electric or have no nitrogen oxide emissions in accordance with Bay Area Air Quality Management District Regulation 9, Rule 4, and Regulation 9, Rule 6. (COS-P14.10) ▪ Design and construct new County facilities to be zero-net energy to the extent feasible. (COS-P14.8) ▪ Study the feasibility of establishing a low-carbon concrete requirement for all new construction and retrofit activities and consider additional strategies to reduce embedded carbon in construction materials. The intent is to determine what the County can and should do to support or exceed State requirements for net-zero emissions for cement use by 2045. (HS-A3.2) ▪ Provide educational materials to encourage project applicants to incorporate passive solar design features into new developments and significant reconstructionsalterations and additions. ▪ Promote additional sustainable building strategies and designs, including small and “tiny” homes, to project applicants as site appropriate. ▪ Consider requiring additional sustainable features as a condition of approval, including reuse of materials to minimize embedded carbon. ▪ Provide educational and technical resources to advance the adoption of heat pump water heater and heat pump space heating in buildings in support of BAAQMD Regulation 9, Rule 4, and Regulation 9, Rule 6, which will mandate that replacement and new water heaters (2027 and 2031) and space heaters (2029) are zero NOx. (COS- P14.10) The new Contra Costa County Administration Building, part of the first government project in the world to receive TRUE pre- certification. Photo credit: Contra Costa County staff. Chapter 4 80 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 BE-2: Retrofit existing buildings and facilities in the unincorporated county, and County infrastructure, to reduce energy use and convert to low-carbon or carbon-neutral free fuels. With implementation of this strategy, the existing built environment in unincorporated Contra Costa County will include more carbon-neutral and low- carbon buildings through all-electric upgrades, energy efficiency, and weatherization retrofits, and upgrades to existing buildings, including County-owned and operated buildings and facilities. In March 2023, BAAQMD adopted a regulation to require existing natural-gas-powered space heaters and water heaters be replaced with electrical models when the natural-gas- powered units reach the end of their operational life. This regulation will take effect in 2027 to 2031 for water heaters (depending on the capacity of the unit) and in 2029 for space heaters. This regulation accelerates the transition of natural gas appliances to electric appliances in existing homes and non-residential buildings, resulting in a higher adoption rate of these technologies. Depending on the specific type of equipment, 70 to 90 percent of space heaters and water heaters should be electric by 2045 due to the BAAQMD regulations and local efforts. 2030 2045 GHG emissions reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 55,99081,140 177,830156,150 Strategy BE-2 Co-benefits: Cost savings Improved air quality Improved community equity Improved public health Increased economic opportunities Reduced resource use Approximately 56 percent of the county’s housing stock was constructed prior to 1980, around the time when modern building codes were first adopted (this includes the 19 cities). Within the unincorporated county, approximately 74 percent of housing stock was constructed prior to 1980. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 81 Strategy BE-2 Actions: ▪ Create a County policy or program to facilitate making existing residential and nonresidential buildings more energy-efficient and powered by carbon-free energy. (COS-A14.6) ▪ Create a detailed County roadmap to convert existing homes and businesses to use low- carbon or carbon-free appliances. The roadmap should include steps to support converting buildings to rely on low-carbon or carbon-free energy using an equitable framework that minimizes the risk of displacement or significant disruptions to existing tenants. (COS-A14.7) ▪ Require replacement and new water heaters and space heating and cooling systems to be electric or have no nitrogen oxide emissions electric if the building electric panel has sufficient capacity in accordance with BAAQMD Regulation 9, Rule 4, and Regulation 9, Rule 6. (COS-P14.10) ▪ Provide educational and technical resources to advance the adoption of heat pump water heater and heat pump space heating in new buildings. ▪ Evaluate options for incentivizing and requiring additions and alterations to be energy efficient and to achieve the lowest feasible levels of GHG emissions, including upgrades to the building electric panel as needed. (COS-A14.8) ▪ Ensure County-led and supported retrofit programs incentivize and prioritize conversion of buildings built before 1980 and emphasize assistance to owners of properties that are home to very low-, low-, and moderate- income residents or located in Impacted Communities, as permitted by available funding. (COS-A14.9) ▪ Explore opportunities, in collaboration with partner agencies, to create new incentives or publicize existing ones to support updating existing buildings to achieve the lowest feasible levels of GHG emissions. ▪ Partner with community groups and MCE to establish an induction cooktop education loaner program for county residents. (Initiated in 2024.) CookSmart In 2024, the County implemented the BayREN CookSmart pilot program, in partnership with Sustainable Contra Costa. This program provides electric induction cooktops and up to three pieces of induction-compatible cookware to up to 100 County residents, with an emphasis on residents living in Impacted Communities. Chapter 4 82 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 ▪ Work to continue to obtain funding with partners such as BayREN and MCE to implement a program or programs to provide reduced-cost or free energy- efficiency and zero-carbon retrofits to local small businesses and households earning less than the area median income, in support of the Contra Costa County Asthma Initiative, Contra Costa County Weatherization Program, similar County programs, other nonprofit partners, and other health equity efforts for Impacted Communities. Support the use of low- emitting materials, including paints and carpeting, in retrofits to improve indoor air quality. ▪ In partnership with MCE and BayREN, continue to support voluntary home and business energy efficiency retrofits, including all-electric measures. ▪ Facilitate participation by homes and businesses in demand response programs. ▪ Continue to conduct energy and water tracking activities, audits, and upgrades of County facilities, including conversion of feasible County facilities to all-electric space and water heating. ▪ Advocate for modifications to the federal Weatherization Assistance Program that expand eligible measures to include whole building clean energy improvements, such as wall insulation, duct sealing, electric panel upgrades, electric heat pumps, and related measures. Advocate for an increase in the income eligibility limits for the Weatherization Assistance Program. Cool roofs and pavement Cool roofs and pavements help to reduce the amount of sunlight absorbed by these materials, helping to bring down the temperature in buildings and developed areas. Both cool roofs and pavements reflect most sunlight, rather than absorbing it, and efficiently emit the solar energy that they do absorb. In the California Building Standards Code, these materials are formally defined by their level of thermal emittance and solar reflectance. BayREN The Bay Area Regional Energy Network (BayREN) is a partnership between communities in the nine-county Bay Area region, including Contra Costa County, which supports energy efficiency, water efficiency, and GHG emissions reduction. BayREN provides financial and technical assistance to property owners, businesses, and local governments to reduce their resource use and GHG emissions. This work includes providing rebates and other incentives for energy efficiency retrofits and the installation of energy-efficient appliances. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 83 ▪ Implement requirements for cool roofs and light-colored, non-reflective, permeable paving materials as part of retrofit, repair, and replacement activities, using recycled materials or other materials with low embedded carbon as feasible and as established by the Building Standards Code. BE-3: Increase the amount of electricity used and generated from renewable sources in the county. This strategy seeks to accelerate the replacement of electricity from fossil fuels with electricity from renewable and other carbon-free sources. Actions include increased local renewable energy generation, support for MCE clean energy programs, including Deep Green and Local Sol tiers, and improved energy independence and resilience through battery storage systems9 for renewable electricity. This builds on the 2018 Renewable Resource Potential Study, which describes the opportunities to generate renewable energy in Contra Costa County, on rooftops, parking lots, and other spaces within the urban limit line, and in certain areas outside the urban limit line. 9 The County recommends the installation of small battery energy storage systems because of their energy resilience benefits. Although these systems can help to increase use of carbon-free energy, reputable methods for quantifying energy use and GHG reduction benefits at the building level from use of battery storage are not available at this time. Examples of ground-mounted and rooftop solar arrays. Multifamily buildings can be constructed with solar energy and battery storage systems. This reduces the amount of GHGs from the electricity needed to power the building and increases resilience to power outages. Photo credit: Contra Costa County staff Chapter 4 84 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 As all electricity sources in California are expected to be carbon-free by 2045, reducing electricity use or increasing renewable energy supplies in 2045 do not result in GHG reductions beyond those quantified under the State’s RPS program (discussed earlier in this chapter), although they continue to provide cost-saving and resilience benefits. 2030 2045 GHG emissions reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 10,8320 0 Strategy BE-3 Co-benefits: Greater energy independence Improved air quality Improved community equity Improved public health Increased economic opportunities MCE Levels of Service MCE provides three tiers of electricity service: Light Green 60% Renewable Energy, Deep Green 100% Renewable Energy, and 100% Locally Produced Solar Energy. Approximately 98 93 percent of MCE accounts participate in the Light Green tier, 27 percent participate in Deep Green, and less than 1 percent participate in Local Solar. On March 24, 2020, the County Board of Supervisors voted to go Deep Green 100% renewable with MCE for most the County’s accounts. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 85 Strategy BE-3 Actions: ▪ Require new commercial parking lots with 50 or more spaces to mitigate heat gain through installation of shade trees, solar arrays, or other emerging cooling technologies. Prioritize the use of solar arrays where feasible and appropriate. (HS-P8.3) ▪ Encourage property owners to pursue financial incentives for solar energy installations and energy storage technologies, such as battery storage systems, on new and existing buildings. ▪ Work with MCE to increase enrollment, especially in the Deep Green tier. ▪ Continue to enroll all eligible, non-solar-equipped County facility electricity accounts in MCE territory in the Deep Green tier. ▪ Work with the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District and other organizations that provide fire protection services to provide education and promote incentives for battery storage systems that can increase the resilience of homes and businesses to power outages. ▪ Encourage installation of battery storage systems in new and existing buildings, especially buildings with solar energy systems and buildings that provide essential community services. (COS-P14.7) ▪ Provide information about battery storage systems with all applications for new home construction and solar panel installations. ▪ Pursue implementation of recommendations of the 2018 Renewable Resource Potential Study. ▪ Evaluate the least-conflict feasible locations for stand-alone battery storage systems and modify land use regulations to enable such use in these locations. ▪ Explore the technical and economic feasibility of developing and operating microgrids in Contra Costa County and for County facilities. ▪ Explore opportunities to install community solar projects with battery backup to provide clean energy to Impacted Communities. Renewable energy in Contra Costa County In 2023, the County issued 1,700 permits for residential and commercial solar projects, totaling approximately 68,500 kilowatts (kW) of capacity, capable of generating enough electricity to meet the needs of over 23,000 houses. The County has installed 7,300 kW of rooftop and parking lot solar projects. The County also issued 110 permits for residential battery energy storage projects. Chapter 4 86 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 NO WASTE CONTRA COSTA (NW) CONTRA COSTA COUNTY DISPOSES OF NO MORE SOLID WASTE THAN 2.2 POUNDS PER PERSON PER DAY (PPD).10 Waste reduction, reuse, recycling, and composting strategies reduce emissions by reducing the amount of material that decomposes in a landfill. These actions also encourage community-wide creativity, collaboration, and conservation as residents and business owners are inspired to share skills and develop innovative ways to reduce resource use. Communities across California are already reducing their use of single-use plastics and expanding community compost efforts in accordance with AB 1276 and SB 1383. Contra Costa County is poised to make further strides in waste management by increasing composting of organic waste, expanding recycling efforts, encouraging the reuse of materials, and reducing the amount of waste arising through County operations. Efforts to divert waste away from landfills and into composting and recycling programs reduce emissions and help make valuable recycled materials available to the broader community. Expansion of the County’s recycling and composting programs helps ensure that residents not only know how to properly manage their waste, but also have a convenient and affordable way to do so. The 2024 CAP2024 CAAP also looks upstream, identifying strategies for reducing emissions from waste by reducing the amount of waste that results from the purchase of goods used in County operations. 10 The pounds per person per day (PPD) metric refers to the average amount of solid waste that each person that lives in the unincorporated county disposes in landfills each day. This does not include material that is recycled or composted. AB 1276 Assembly Bill (AB) 1276, signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom, changes the Public Resource Code related to single- use food accessories and standard condiments. AB 1276 prohibits restaurants and other food providers from providing single-use utensils and standard condiments unless requested by the customer. Local jurisdictions are required to authorize an enforcement agency to enforce these requirements. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 87 The presence of three landfills within the unincorporated county means that, even if the volume of solid waste generated within the unincorporated county declines significantly, GHGs will be released for decades as waste that is already within landfills continues to decompose. The 2024 CAP2024 CAAP addresses this source of emissions by including strategies and actions to promote landfill gas capture, expanded use of landfill gases, and decreases in flaring activity. Three-stream waste management systems with clear instructions about what materials go in each bin, like this, ensure that people are able to properly sort items into the correct bin and divert compostable and recyclable materials from the landfill. Photo credit: Contra Costa County staff. Most of the emissions associated with the solid waste sector are not from waste that community members in the unincorporated county are throwing out annually. Instead, 80 to 90 percent of emissions from solid waste are coming from three landfills in the unincorporated county. These landfills accept waste from communities across Northern California. As the waste decomposes over decades, it releases GHG emissions. The County is responsible for permitting activities at these landfills and may affect operations at these activities through its agreements with landfill operators. These landfills are the Acme Landfill outside of Martinez, the Keller Canyon Landfill outside of Pittsburg, and the West Contra Costa Landfill outside of Richmond. Although the West Contra Costa Landfill closed in 2006, the waste that had already been deposited in the landfill continues to decompose and create GHG emissions. Chapter 4 88 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 NW-1: Increase composting of organic waste. With this strategy in place, organic waste will be diverted from landfills to composting or other opportunities for reuse in accordance with SB 1383 and other applicable requirements. This includes establishing organic waste collection programs for all franchise waste customers in the unincorporated areas of the county, encouraging and supporting wastewater agencies to accept food waste or other acceptable organic materials for processing in on-site anaerobic digesters, and allowing for creative opportunities to reuse or reprocess organic waste material. 2030 2045 GHG emissions reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 2,240 4,000 Strategy NW-1 Co-benefits: Increased economic opportunities Increased resilience to pests Reduced landfill waste Reduced resource use Strategy NW-1 Actions: ▪ Ensure, through franchise agreements and other relationships with waste haulers, a source-separated organics collection service for all residential and commercial customers in County-controlled collection franchise areas. ▪ Require that new and expanded landfill operations significantly reduce GHG emissions to meet or exceed State targets to the extent feasible, and work toward carbon-neutral landfills. (PFS-P7.12) ▪ Work with wastewater providers to explore the use of organic waste as feedstock for anaerobic digesters to produce biogas that can generate electricity or fuel. ▪ Require local restaurants, grocery stores, and other edible food generators that handle large quantities of food to partner with food rescue organizations to divert edible food that would be otherwise disposed in landfills for distribution to those in need, in accordance with SB 1383. ▪ Collaborate with edible food recovery programs and the Community Wellness & Prevention Program to decrease food waste and address hunger. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 89 ▪ Procure compost or other products made from recovered organic waste in accordance with the County’s Recovered Organic Waste Product and Recycled Paper Procurement Policy. NW-2: Reduce waste from County operations. This strategy reduces waste generated through County operations and the activities of outside organizations with which the County contracts for specific goods and services. Efforts to achieve waste reductions include updating and implementing the County’s environmentally preferable purchasing policy, ensuring all County facilities have and use organic waste and recycling collection services, and requiring the use of low-carbon content building and paving materials for all County projects as feasible. 2030 2045 GHG emissions reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 1,090 1,620 Strategy NW-2 Co-Benefits: Increased economic opportunities Increased resilience to pests Reduced resource use Strategy NW-2 Actions: ▪ Establish Continuea source-separated organics collection service at all County-owned facilities that includes recovering food waste (scraps) and food-soiled paper. ▪ Implement three-stream recycling (trash, recycling, and organic waste) at all County- owned facilities. Environmentally Preferable Purchasing The County’s Environmentally Preferable Purchasing (EPP) Policy was updated and approved by the Board of Supervisors in September 2023. The new policy updates the County’s 2008 EPP and includes purchasing requirements to minimize environmental impacts, reduce GHG emissions, and advance the goals of the CAAP. Chapter 4 90 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 ▪ Establish requirements for source-separated organics collection and three-stream recycling as conditions in lease agreements for County offices. ▪ Conduct waste audits of County facilities, including assessing the volume and composition of all waste streams, to identify challenges with waste activities and develop educational or operational changes to address issues and reduce waste generation. ▪ Obtain material for capital projects from local and low-carbon sources to the greatest extent feasible, including allocating additional funds to allow for such materials, and integrate appropriate standards into the County’s Environmentally Preferable Purchasing (EPP) policy. ▪ Continue to reduce paper use in County operations. Procure recycled paper and janitorial supplies in accordance with the Recovered Organic Waste Product and Recycled Paper Procurement Policy. ▪ Continue engagement with TRUE zero waste certification for County projects. ▪ Enact Bay-friendly landscaping practices at County facilities. Develop County policies and practices for Bay-friendly landscaping. ▪ Explore opportunities to reuse wood from County tree maintenance activities as an alternative to chipping. ▪ Encourage medical facilities and medical waste recycling companies to upgrade facilities to increase the amount of medical waste recycled or reprocessed. ▪ Explore the feasibility of transitioning to reusable products in the health sector, where appropriate, and procuring products certified as green or low carbon. TRUE Certification TRUE certification is a certification program for facilities and their operations that assesses how well the facility is reducing the amount of waste it produces. The certification requirements include at least a 90 percent diversion rate, compliance with applicable laws and permits, and regular reporting on waste statistics. The new County Administration Building B at 1026 Escobar Street, Martinez, was the first project in the world to receive TRUE certification. Bay Friendly Landscaping Bay Friendly Landscaping is a set of best practices for landscaping to minimize impacts to the San Francisco Bay and its watershed. These practices include reducing stormwater runoff, providing wildlife habitat, and reducing fertilizer use. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 91 NW-3: Increase community-wide recycling and waste minimization programs. Under this strategy, the amount of waste sent to landfills from community members is reduced through extensive diversion and waste minimization programs. The County explores and implements all feasible opportunities to minimize landfill waste, including through recycling of additional materials, prohibitions or limitations on materials that cannot be recycled/composted, education around conscious consumption, and opportunities to divert waste materials for reuse. 2030 2045 GHG emissions reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 520 2,530 Strategy NW-3 Co-benefits: Increased economic opportunities Increased resilience to pests Reduced resource use Strategy NW-3 Actions: ▪ Create a source-reduction program in partnership with regional agencies to promote rethinking, refusing, reducing, reusing, and regenerating of materials. ▪ Improve educational efforts to promote better waste sorting among community members. ▪ Work with waste haulers to expand the types of materials accepted by recycling programs as economic conditions allow. The Five Rs Recycling and composting are critical steps to decreasing the amount of waste that the County sends to a landfill. However, recycling and composting still should be treated as a last resort. Prior to sending something to a recycling or composting center (or landfill if no alternative exists), community members should try to reduce the amount of waste produced in the first place, by following the five Rs: Rethink whether it is necessary to buy something. Refuse to buy something that produces excess waste. Reduce the amount of waste generated. Reuse items that would otherwise be treated as waste. Regenerate waste products into something useful often through recycling. Chapter 4 92 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 ▪ Work with waste haulers to continue availability of curbside pickup recycling services. ▪ Evaluate the feasibility of banning single-use plastics or establishing additional restrictions beyond those created by SB 54. ▪ Encourage the use of reusable items over disposable materials. ▪ Promote the Contra Costa County Recycling Market Development Zone low-interest loan program to create incentivizes for the development of businesses that use recycled materials. NW-4: Reduce emissions from landfill gas. After it is deposited in landfills, waste gradually decomposes and releases landfill gas. Landfill gas contains both carbon dioxide and methane, making this gas a potent contributor to GHG emissions and regional air pollutants. Most, but not all, of this gas is captured and used to generate energy, produce fuels, or flared. The gas that is not captured escapes into the atmosphere, adding to the county’s GHG emissions. Increasing the percentage of captured landfill gas both helps the County meet its GHG emissions reduction goals and improve local air quality. Strategy NW-4 improves the landfill gas capture rate, increases opportunities to use landfill gas as an alternative energy source, and reduces the rate of flaring of landfill gas. 2030 2045 GHG emissions reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 57,460 61,410 Strategy NW-4 Co-benefits: Greater energy independence Improved air quality Strategy NW-4 Actions: ▪ Encourage efforts at Acme, Keller Canyon, and West Contra Costa landfills to install or enhance existing methane capture technology and associated monitoring systems with a goal of increasing the methane capture rate to the greatest extent feasible. ▪ Explore opportunities for partnering with agricultural and industrial operations to generate energy from methane gas generated by their ongoing activities. ▪ Support landfill operators in efforts to transition away from landfill gas flaring. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 93 REDUCE WATER USE AND INCREASE DROUGHT RESILIENCE (DR) CONTRA COSTA COUNTY USES LESS WATER AND COMMUNITIES ARE PREPARED FOR DROUGHT. Communities can reduce water use and protect themselves from the effects of drought through implementation of strategies to increase indoor water use efficiency and reduce outdoor water use. Increasing water use efficiency and decreasing outdoor water use reduce GHGs by reducing the amount of energy needed to process, heat, and deliver water. In addition to saving energy, water conservation and efficiency helps protect one of California’s most precious resources and helps the county become more resilient to drought and water shortage. In addition, reducing water use in individual homes and businesses can reduce utility costs. Contra Costa County possesses both surface and groundwater resources. In California, groundwater quality and sustainability are ensured through the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA). The SGMA establishes a local management structure for groundwater, led by Groundwater Sustainability Agencies (GSAs). GSAs are responsible for authoring and implementing the local Groundwater Sustainability Plan. GSAs active in Contra Costa County include the City of Antioch GSA, City of Brentwood GSA, Byron- Bethany Irrigation District GSA, Contra Costa County GSA, Diablo Water District GSA, Discovery Bay GSA, East Contra Costa Irrigation District GSA, East Bay Municipal Utilities District GSA, and Zone 7 GSA. The California Department of Water Resources approved the East Contra Costa Subbasin Groundwater Sustainability Plan in July 2023. The Groundwater Sustainability Plan goals are consistent and complementary with the County’s CAAP and focus on groundwater management strategies that protect and maintain safe and reliable groundwater sources in the face of climate change. Chapter 4 94 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Drought-tolerant landscapes and native plants have lower water demands than other plant species. Photo credit: Envision Contra Costa picture gallery. DR-1: Reduce indoor and outdoor water use. This strategy reduces water use in communities and at County facilities. This includes efforts to promote water conservation; increase the acreage of native and drought-tolerant plantslandscaping; encourage graywater/rainwater catchment systems and supportive infrastructure; and provide incentives to reduce water use as appropriate. 2030 2045 GHG emissions reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 970 1,440 Strategy DR-1 Co-benefits: Cost savings Increased resilience to pests Reduced resource use Strategy DR-1 Actions: ▪ Require new development to reduce potable water consumption through use of water- efficient devices and technology, drought-tolerant landscaping strategies, and treated recycled water, where available. (COS-P7.16) ▪ Require homes and businesses to install water-efficient fixtures at time of retrofit activities, in accordance with the California Building Standards Code. The average Contra Costa resident uses 126 gallons of water per day. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 95 ▪ Continue to enforce the Model Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance and encourage the use of native and drought-tolerant landscaping for exempt residential and commercial landscapes through partnership with local and regional water agencies and other organizations. ▪ Partner with water and wastewater service providers, Groundwater Sustainability Agencies, irrigation districts, and private well owners to increase participation in water conservation programs countywide. (COS-P7.21) ▪ Facilitate offering of BayREN water bill savings programs through eligible community water providers. ▪ Encourage the installation of graywater and rainwater catchment systems, particularly for new construction, as feasible for wastewater infrastructure. Reduce regulatory barriers for these systems and explore creating incentives for installing these systems in new and existing buildings. ▪ Identify Evaluate opportunities for graywater use in public spaces and implement them as feasible. ▪ Promote the installation of composting toilets at appropriate County facilities in locations without wastewater service. DR-2: Ensure sustainable and diverse water supplies. This strategy supports efforts to diversify the sources of Contra Costa County’s water supplies and ensure that water supplies are viable for the long-term. This is a supportive policy that does not create its own GHG emission reductions. Strategy DR-2 Co-benefits: Greater community resilience Reduced resource use Strategy DR-2 Actions: ▪ Encourage Contra Costa Health to work with Groundwater Sustainability Agencies to ensure that new well permit applications are in accordance with County ordinances and State construction standards and require a hydrogeological evaluation in areas with known water shortages to ensure that the sustainable yield goals can be met. Chapter 4 96 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 ▪ Require new development to demonstrate the availability of a safe, sanitary, and environmentally sound water delivery and wastewater treatment systems with adequate capacity. (PFS-P4.5, PFS-P4.6) ▪ Discourage new development that may reasonably lead to groundwater overdraft, subsidence, or other negative impacts, or which may reasonably depend on the import of unsustainable quantities of water from outside the county. ▪ Require the use of permeable surfaces for new or reconstructed hardscaped areas where feasible. ▪ In coordination with Groundwater Sustainability Agencies, expand opportunities for groundwater recharge. ▪ Work with water suppliers to expand recycled water systems as feasible, including considering additional treatment to allow for additional recycled water uses. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 97 CLEAN TRANSPORTATION NETWORK (TR) CONTRA COSTA COUNTY’S TRANSPORTATION NETWORK PROVIDES SAFE AND ACCESSIBLE OPTIONS FOR WALKING, BIKING, AND TRANSIT. IF RESIDENTS AND WORKERS ARE DRIVING, THEY ARE IN ZERO-EMISSION VEHICLES. Transportation is an integral part of living life and conducting business for nearly all members of the Contra Costa County community. The range of transportation options that the County invests in and that are useful for the public has profound impacts on GHG emissions, local environmental quality, public safety, and overall quality of life. Private vehicle travel is convenient, but releases significant volumes of GHGs, increases the maintenance demand on roads, creates toxic particulates through tire wear and brake dust, increases congestion, requires significant personal investment, hinders active modes of transportation, and is a significant source of death and injury. Increasing the safe, affordable, accessible, active, and reliable transportation options available to communities makes it easier for all residents to participate in public life and gives all community members the freedom to choose transportation modes that promote health, reduce fuel costs and time lost in traffic, and help the County meet its GHG emissions reduction goals. The 2024 CAP2024 CAAP diversifies the County’s transportation landscape by recommending investments in active transportation, micromobility, public transit, complete streets, and roadway safety and ensuring that employers offer alternative commuting options for their employees. The County is committed to enhancing active transportation by promoting access and connectivity for all modes of travel besides automobile travel. Active transportation encompasses any self-propelled, human-powered travel, such as walking and bicycling. The County’s Active Transportation Plan14 serves as a roadmap to enhance active transportation safety and mode share for unincorporated areas in Contra Costa County by providing a comprehensive look at the County’s active transportation needs and Micromobility is a category of affordable, lightweight transportation ideal for trips of five miles or less and designed for individual use. Micromobility devices can be personally owned bicycles, e-bikes, electric scooters and electric skateboards, or shared bikes, e-bikes, and e-scooters. - Contra Costa 511.org Chapter 4 98 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 opportunities. The plan outlines investments in new bicycle facilities, upgraded crossings, enhanced trail connections, and improved walkways. While the County works to have a wide suite of transportation options available, passenger and commercial automobile use will continue to be a large part of Contra Costa County’s transportation mix. However, different fuels have different levels of carbon intensity. Gasoline and diesel-fueled vehicles, in particular, release more carbon dioxide into the atmosphere than vehicles that use electricity or hydrogen fuels, even when accounting for how the electricity or hydrogen is generated. Increasing use of cleaner transportation fuels will be a key to help reduce the County’s transportation emissions. Ensuring that cleaner fuels are affordable, accessible, and easy to use means helping communities address the up-front costs of acquiring an electric or other clean-fuel vehicle and ensuring that refueling infrastructure, such as EV charging stations, is equitably distributed throughout and across communities. Additionally, the County aims to increase the use of clean fuels in its own vehicle fleet and promote the use of clean fuels among transportation providers such as taxis and ridesharing programs. County Employees on Bike to Work Day: Karin Deas (left), John Steere and Joe Lawlor (right). Photo credit: Contra Costa County staff. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 99 TR-1: Improve the viability of walking, biking, zero-emission commuting, and using public transit for travel within, to, and from the county. This strategy, in coordination with the General Plan’s policies and actions, reduces vehicle miles traveled (VMT) in Contra Costa County by making it easier for people to bike, walk, roll, and take public transit. This strategy incorporates the County’s commitments to implement the Contra Costa Active Transportation Plan, Complete Streets Policy, Vision Zero Action Plan, and other County policies to facilitate location of new development to minimize car dependency. Contra Costa County’s Complete Streets Policy was adopted in 2016. This policy promotes rethinking street design to ensure that streets adequately serve all users and are sensitive to local traffic conditions. All departments and agencies of Contra Costa County are required to work towards making Complete Streets practices a routine part of everyday operations and are considered for all development projects. Adopted in March 2022, the County’s Active Transportation Plan serves as a roadmap to enhance active transportation safety and mode share for unincorporated Contra Costa County by providing a comprehensive look at the county’s active transportation needs and opportunities. The plan outlines investments in new bicycle facilities, upgraded crossings, enhanced trail connections, and improved walkways. In March 2022, the County also adopted the Action Plan from the Vision Zero Final Report.15 Created by the Public Works Department, this plan commits the County to the Vision Zero goal of reducing vehicle collisions by promoting safe vehicles, safe speeds, safe roads, and post-crash care. Active Transportation Plan The Active Transportation Plan aims to: • Prioritize active transportation investments based on factors such as collision history or systemic risk, location in an impacted community, location near key destinations, and funding opportunities. • Shift trip modes by Contra Costa County residents and visitors from motor vehicles to active modes such as walking and biking. • Provide a vision for arterials and collector streets within the unincorporated county roadway network to assist County departments in planning for private development, capital projects, and maintenance efforts. Chapter 4 100 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 The County also supports legislation that enhances accessibility to quality transit, protects vulnerable road users, increases transit service, ensures transit is safe and affordable, and identifies strategies and funding to implement recommendations in the 2019 Employee Commute Survey for County employees. 2030 2045 GHG emissions reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 17,050 40,370 Strategy TR-1 Co-benefits: Cost savings Greater community resilience Improved air quality Improved community equity Improved public health Reduced resource use Strategy TR-1 Actions: ▪ Prioritize expansion of bicycle, micromobility, and pedestrian infrastructure (e.g., Class IV separated bikeways) to address the significant latent demand for these active transportation modes. (TR-P1.2) ▪ Develop and promote mobility alternatives to single-occupancy vehicles, including but not limited to public transit, micromobility, carbon-free rideshare strategies, and nonmotorized modes. (TR-A1.1) ▪ Implement programs to encourage transit use, bicycling, walking, telecommuting, and use of alternative vehicle fuels by County employees. (TR-A1.4) ▪ Reduce single-occupant vehicle usage and VMT, by significantly enhancing the availability and safety of other travel modes through infrastructure investment, policy support (Vision Zero, and other best practices), and support for public transit. (TR-P1.4) ▪ Plan, design, construct, and maintain facilities for walking, bicycling, and rolling to serve people of all ages, abilities, and income levels, including children, seniors, families, and people with limited mobility. (TR-P5.1) 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 101 ▪ Partner with CCTA and neighboring jurisdictions to build out the countywide bicycle and pedestrian network, prioritizing completion of the Low-Stress Countywide Bicycle Network and pedestrian safety improvement projects in the County’s Pedestrian Priority Areas, as described in the Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan. (TR-A5.1) ▪ Construct innovative bicycle and pedestrian facilities, including Class IV separated and protected bikeways, bicycle superhighways, and other low-stress facility types, as described in the Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan and in contemporary, best-practice transportation planning and engineering guidance. Use contextually appropriate green infrastructure and landscaping to separate vehicular lanes from bicycle and pedestrian facilities whenever feasible. (TR-A5.2) ▪ Require transportation infrastructure serving new development to be designed using best practices, contemplating existing and planned land uses, roadways, bicycle and pedestrian facilities, transit facilities, and connections to adjoining areas. (TR-P4.2) ▪ Create connections between unincorporated communities and neighborhoods in unincorporated areas and adjacent jurisdictions to improve multimodal access to local destinations, such as schools, parks, shopping, health services, and workplaces. (TR-P4.3) ▪ Maintain in place and enforce a Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Ordinance that reflects best practices and, at a minimum, conforms to Contra Costa Transportation Authority’s adopted model TDM ordinance or resolution. (GM-P3.5) ▪ Track over time projects that add pedestrian and bicycle facilities to document the County’s implementation of the County Road Improvement and Preservation Program (CRIPP); Complete Streets checklist; Vision Zero Report and Action Plan; Active Transportation Plan; and equity-focused plans, programs, and policies. ▪ Improve the safety and comfort of bicycle, pedestrian, and public transit facilities using best practices to encourage more people to use such facilities. Healthy Building, Healthy Communities Program In 2023, the Contra Costa Healthy Building Healthy Communities Program won two grants totaling over $1.7 million to promote active transportation and advance equity in bicycle and pedestrian roadway safety. These grants included a four-year $1.5 million grant to provide Safe Routes to School programming at up to 90 schools countywide; and a one-year $200,000 grant to advance Vision Zero, build community capacity to promote bicycle and pedestrian safety, and disseminate bicycle and pedestrian safety campaigns. Chapter 4 102 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 ▪ Work with CCTA to fill gaps in the countywide Low-Stress Bike Network, as outlined in the 2018 Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan. Prioritize providing access for Impacted Communities and constructing protected bicycle facilities Coordinate with Caltrans, CCTA, the Regional Transportation Planning Committees, and neighboring jurisdictions to plan, design, and implement Complete Streets concepts on Routes of Regional Significance. ▪ In collaboration with key partners, support efforts to establish or join a shared mobility program that provides access to conventional bicycles, e-bikes, and other micromobility modes, prioritizing access for low-income residents who do not have bicycles. Support efforts to establish and/or maintain bike repair programs. ▪ Support efforts to expand the service area and frequency of regional transit agencies, and reduced fares for students, seniors, and low-income residents on systems, including AC Transit, BART, Capitol Corridor, County Connection, Tri Delta Transit, the San Francisco Bay Ferry, and WestCAT. Encourage programs that support “last mile” transportation connection and options. ▪ Maximize development of jobs and affordable housing near high-quality transit service to support a jobs-housing balance. ▪ Market the county’s Northern Waterfront to attract innovative companies with jobs for residents. ▪ Improve county-wide safety for cyclists by advocating for the passage of Vulnerable Road User Laws. ▪ Secure additional funding for the maintenance and expansion of bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure improvements. Support efforts to obtain additional funding to maintain and expand public transit operations and infrastructure improvements. ▪ Support CCTA to develop and implement methods for tracking EV and e-bike charging and availability across jurisdictions. ▪ Support CCTA and regional transit agencies in providing “last mile” transportation connections and options. ▪ Encourage and support increased regional integration of transit systems to promote more equitable fare structures, fare integration, easier transfers, including Contra Costa Centre Overcrossing. Photo credit: Contra Costa County 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 103 coordinated transfers between different transit systems and reduced wait times, improved information sharing, and generally a more seamless and modern system. ▪ Ensure emerging transportation technologies and travel options, such as autonomous and ZEVs and transportation network companies, support the County’s goals for reducing emissions, adapting to climate change, improving public safety, and increasing equitable mobility. (TR-P1.3) TR-2: Increase the use of zero-emission vehicles. Transition to a zero- emission County fleet by 2035 and a community fleet that is at least 50 percent zero-emission by 2030. Implementation of this strategy will help increase the share of zero-emission vehicles on the road. The County will encourage all residents and businesses (including heavy-duty vehicle operators) to transition to zero-emission vehicles, enforce the County vehicle purchasing policy, promote electric vehicle sharing services, and ensure adequate electric vehicle charging and other zero-emission fueling infrastructure in new and existing development. The State projects that 86 percent of light-duty vehicles and over 70 percent of heavy-duty vehicles will be zero emission by 2045, based on modeling in the State’s 2022 Scoping Plan. 2030 2045 GHG emissions reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 148,000 343,89032,850 There are approximately 33,850 zero-emission or plug-in hybrid vehicles registered in Contra Costa County, or about 3.9 percent of all light-duty vehicles, as of the end of 2021. Statewide, about 2.9 percent of light-duty vehicles are zero- emission or plug-in hybrid. However, this number is growing rapidly. In the first half of 2022, approximately 22.7 percent of light-duty vehicle sales in Contra Costa County were zero-emission or plug-in hybrid, higher than all but five counties in California. Approximately 84 percent of vehicles in Contra Costa County are projected to be electric by 2045. Chapter 4 104 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Strategy TR-2 Co-benefits: Cost savings Improved air quality Improved community equity Improved public health Reduced resource use Advanced Clean Car Standards California has a set of regulations adopted in recent years to encourage the transition to zero- emission vehicles. The Innovative Clean Transit regulation, first adopted in 2018, requires that all new buses purchased by transit agencies in California must be zero-emission by 2029. There are earlier milestones for zero-emission bus purchases depending on the size of the agency. The regulation also requires that transit agencies plan to fully transition to zero-emission buses by 2040. The Advanced Clean Trucks regulation, adopted in 2020, requires an increase in the number of new zero-emission medium- and heavy-duty vehicles sold in California. This regulation covers freight trucks, delivery vans, large pickup trucks, and other large vehicles. The targets vary by vehicle type, but the State expects that 63 percent of new trucks will be zero-emission by 2035. The Advanced Clean Car II standards, adopted in 2022, requires that all new passenger cars, trucks, and SUVs sold in California be zero-emission by 2035. Beginning in 2026, 35 percent of new passenger vehicles sold in the state must be zero-emission. The Advanced Clean Fleets regulation, adopted in 2023, applies to government and large private vehicle fleets. It requires that most vehicle types sold to fleet operators be zero- emission. For local governments such as Contra Costa County, at least 50 percent of new vehicle purchases must be zero-emission starting in 2024, increasing to 100 percent in 2027. There are exemptions for some types of vehicles, including emergency vehicles. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 105 Strategy TR-2 Actions: ▪ Require new County vehicles to be zero-emission to the extent a viable vehicle is available on the market, that charging or zero-emission fueling equipment is conveniently located where the vehicle will be stored, and as required by the Advanced Clean Fleet regulations, with the goal that all County vehicles will be zero-emission by 2035. ▪ Continue adopting new or modified reach codes and consider future updates that exceed the California Building Standards Code as the State updates the Building Code, including the Green Building Code, to require zero-emission charging infrastructure in new multifamily and nonresidential buildings. Explore expanding it to include new single-family homes. (Supported by TR-P1.12 and TR-A.12) ▪ Install electric vehicle charging equipment and other infrastructure needed to support the transition to a zero-emission County fleet at County facilities. Consider the appropriate locations, number, and capacity of infrastructure to facilitate the transition of the County fleet to zero-emission vehicles. ▪ Provide incentives for zero-emission vehicles in partnership with MCE, BAAQMD, and other agencies. ▪ Work with property owners and other potential partners to pursue installation of zero- emission vehicle charging stations in and near multifamily dwelling units. ▪ Update off-street parking ordinance to include a requirement for zero-emission vehicle charging infrastructure. Consider including incentives for developers to exceed minimum requirements (i.e., density bonus). ▪ Increase installation of electric vehicle charging stations for all vehicle types, including bicycles and scooters, at public facilities, emphasizing increased installation in Impacted Communities. ▪ In partnership with regional agencies, explore providing subsidies for households making less than the area median income to purchase or lease zero- emission vehicles and associated infrastructure. ▪ Pursue fees and regulatory efforts to convert transportation network company (TNC), taxi, and similar car-hire services to zero-emission vehicles. ▪ Explore opportunities for implementing electric vehicle sharing programs. On June 1, 2023, the County hosted its first electric vehicle (EV) and E-bike show to educate and empower employees to use EV technology as the County fleet transitions to zero-emission vehicles. Approximately 200 staff from County departments and other public agencies attended to learn about EVs and E-bikes through a showcase that featured a wide range of EVs from public fleets and staff’s personal vehicles. Chapter 4 106 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 ▪ Work with BAAQMD and other regional agencies to convert off-road equipment to zero- emission clean fuels. ▪ Work with contractors, fleet operations, logistics companies, and other operators of heavy-duty vehicles to accelerate the transition to zero-emission heavy-duty vehicles. ▪ In cases where battery-electric, hybrid-electric, and sustainably sourced hydrogen fuel- cell sources are not available, wWork with Public Works to pursue the use of renewable natural gas (sourced from recovered organic waste) for transportation fuel, electricity, or heating applications. in cases where battery-electric, hybrid-electric, and sustainably sourced hydrogen fuel-cell sources are not available. ▪ Encourage efforts to maximize EV charging during solar peak hours. ▪ Continue to host events such as the Electric Vehicle and E-Bike Show to educate and empower County staff and community members about zero-emission vehicles. ▪ Coordinate with CCTA and other local and regional agencies to Support implementation of the Contra Costa County Electric Vehicle Readiness Blueprint and related policies and apply best practices in ZEV charging/fueling infrastructure requirements. (TR-A1.11) Electric vehicles like this one in the County’s fleet help to significantly reduce GHG emissions associated with transportation. Photo credit: Contra Costa County. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 107 RESILIENT COMMUNITIES AND NATURAL INFRASTRUCTURE (NI) CONTRA COSTA COUNTY WILL INCREASE RESILIENCE TO CLIMATE HAZARDS AND FOSTER COMMUNITY HEALTH. Most of the strategies for Resilient Communities and Natural Infrastructure are not associated with GHG emissions savings. NI-4 is included here because it both contributes significantly to the County’s resilience efforts and results in measurable GHG emissions reductions. See Chapter 5 for a detailed description of other strategies that fall under this goal. NI-4: Sequester carbon on natural and working lands in Contra Costa County. This strategy increases opportunities to store carbon through natural carbon sequestration on public and private lands, increased tree planting by the County and public and private partners, and installation of green infrastructure. Additional actions pertaining to tree planting are in strategy NI-5 in Chapter 5. 2030 2045 GHG emissions reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 22,630 88,910 Strategy NI-4 Co-benefits: Enhanced recreation opportunities Greater community resilience Improved air quality Improved public health Increased economic opportunities Increased resilience to pests Chapter 4 108 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Strategy NI-4 Actions: ▪ Pursue implementation of recommendations from the carbon sequestration feasibility study, Healthy Lands, Healthy People. ▪ Continue to support and work with key partners to maintain existing and establish new pilot programs for carbon sequestration on agricultural land. ▪ Promote restorative regenerative agricultural and landscaping techniques that incorporate cover crops, mulching, compost application, field borders, alley cropping, conservation crop rotation, prescribed grazing, and reduced tillage to promote healthy soil and soil conservation. (Supported by COS-P2.11) ▪ Support soil conservation and restoration programs. Encourage agricultural landowners to work with agencies such as the USDA’s NRCS and Contra Costa RCD to reduce erosion and soil loss. (COS-P2.10) ▪ Coordinate with farming groups, ranchers, the Contra Costa Resource Conservation District, and the University of California Cooperative Extension to identify and promote varieties of feedstock, livestock, and crops that are resilient to rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns and that increase carbon sequestration. ▪ Explore ways to increase carbon sequestration on County-owned facilitiesproperties. ▪ Partner with regional landowners and agencies to establish local carbon sequestration programs and incentives. ▪ Consider the development of carbon offset protocols and guidance for future use by carbon sequestration program to provide technical support to applicants and County permitting staff to promote appropriate natural sequestration on natural and developed lands. ▪ Ensure that any local or regional carbon sequestration program that the County establishes, promotes, supports, or joins demonstrates benefits to unincorporated communities that face environmental justice issues. ▪ Explore the potential for the public to support tree planting and maintenance of existing trees. (Supported by COS-P6.2) Healthy Lands, Healthy People Contra Costa County completed a feasibility study in 2023 to explore how agriculture, parks, gardens, and open space in the county could be used to sequester carbon and support carbon neutrality efforts. The study is funded by a grant from the California Department of Conservation. Its findings have informed quantification assumptions for Strategy NI-4. Implementation of the recommendations in this study will inform future updates of this 2024 CAAP. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 109 ▪ Establish a mechanism to support expanded tree planting and maintenance activities, particularly in areas with few trees. ▪ Support protection, restoration, and enhancement of creeks, wetlands, marshes, sloughs, and tidelands, and emphasize the role of these features in climate change resilience, air and water quality, and wildlife habitat. (COS-P5.1) ▪ Inventory wetlands, floodplains, marshlands, natural watercourses, riparian corridors, and adjacent lands that could potentially support climate adaptation (e.g., through flood management, filtration, or other beneficial ecosystem services) and mitigation (e.g., carbon sequestration). (COS-A5.1) ▪ Encourage and support conservation of natural lands outside the urban limit line in the unincorporated county. ▪ Explore the new funding and financing opportunities for climate adaptation and resilience projects, including the creation of a Climate Resilience District, issuance of bonds—including bonds that can be marketed as “green bonds”-- as a potential financing mechanism, and similar opportunities. ▪ Require that any mitigation of air quality impacts occur on-site to the extent feasible to provide the greatest benefit to local residents in unincorporated communities. For mitigation that relies on offsets, require that the offsets be obtained from sources as near to the project site as possible or from sources that would improve air quality in an Impacted Community. If the project site is within or adjacent to an Impacted Community, require offsets or mitigation within that community unless determined infeasible by the County. (HS-P1.6) Climate Resilience Districts Climate resilience districts are special districts that can raise and allocate money to fund projects and operations that address climate change adaptation efforts, such as those to help protect against sea level rise, wildfire, and drought. They have the authority to establish special taxes, assessments, or other charges. Local governments may establish climate resilience districts under Assembly Bill 852, adopted in 2022. Chapter 4 110 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Achieving Our Goals County staff developed a set of 11 GHG emission reduction strategies and assessed the GHG emission reduction potential of these strategies, given the project team’s reasonable understanding of available resources and what seemed appropriate for the unincorporated area. Appendix B provides detailed information about the GHG emission reduction potential of these strategies. These GHG emission reduction potentials are intended to be a starting point. They are based on the best available information, the experience and expertise of County staff, and known resources and capabilities. It is possible to achieve greater reductions if there is more confidence in higher levels of participation or development of additional programs. Table 10 shows the expected GHG emission levels with these strategies enacted, TABLE 10. GHG EMISSIONS WITH 2024 CAAP DRAFT REDUCTION STRATEGIES, 2019 TO 2045 SECTOR 2019 2030 2045 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2019–2045 Transportation 464,040 277,450 60,970 -87% Energy - Residential 191,780 141,720 24,180 -87% Energy - Nonresidential 85,390 71,500 24,540 -71% Solid Waste 220,760 146,270 137,070 -38% Agriculture 36,130 34,770 33,410 -8% Off-road Equipment 54,010 54,150 29,270 -46% Water and Wastewater 4,870 3,610 1,470 -70% BART 190 150 50 -74% Land Use and Sequestration -70,860 -90,210 -147,800 -109% Total Annual MTCO2e 986,310 639,460 163,130 -83% * Note: Due to rounding, totals may not equal the sum of the individual values * Reductions of 83 percent below 2019 levels are comparable to reductions of 85 percent below 1990 levels. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 111 All the strategies discussed in this chapter help Contra Costa County reduce its GHG emissions and allow the County to achieve its GHG reduction goals. Different strategies, along with existing and planned efforts, contribute to the GHG reductions in each of the different sectors as projected in 2045: ▪ Transportation: The largest share of GHG reductions from transportation-related emissions comes from a significant increase in adoption of electric vehicle and other zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) technologies, as discussed in Strategy TR-2. The State’s Clean Car Standards, establishing stricter vehicle fuel efficiency standards and ZEV adoption requirements, accounts for approximately 39 percent of these reductions. Strategy TR-1, which reduces VMT through increases in transit use, active transportation, and micromobility, accounts for the remaining 7 percent of GHG reductions in transportation energy use. ▪ Residential energy: More than half of GHG reductions in residential energy use comes from energy efficiency and electrification of existing homes, as discussed in Strategy BE- 2, and another 24 percent comes from the State’s program to partially meet natural gas needs from renewable sources. The State’s increase in the Title 24 energy efficiency standards for new buildings and RPS program to convert all electricity to renewable or carbon-free sources each contribute about 10 percent of the GHG reductions in this sector. Smaller but still significant GHG reductions to residential energy use come from the high energy performance standards discussed in Strategy BE-1 and the effects of the County’s earlier all-electric reach code. ▪ Nonresidential energy: Similar to the residential energy sector, the largest share of GHG reductions in nonresidential energy use (44 percent) comes from energy efficiency and electrification of existing building in Strategy BE-2, followed by the State’s plan for increased natural gas from renewable sources (28 percent). The State’s RPS and Title 24 programs create the next-largest sources of reductions. The County’s energy performance standards in BE-1 and the County’s earlier all-electric reach code also play a role in reducing emissions from this sector. ▪ Solid waste: The largest contributor to solid waste GHG emission reductions in the CAAP is the increased capture rate of methane from landfills in Strategy NW-4, which is responsible for about 50 percent of these reductions. The State’s organics recycling requirements, SB 1383, is responsible for another 44 percent of GHG emission reductions from solid waste. Local efforts to increase recycling and minimize waste generation, as discussed in Strategies NW-1, NW-2, and NW-3, collectively achieve the remaining GHG emission reductions. Chapter 4 112 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 ▪ Agriculture: The State and CAAP strategies do not directly reduce agricultural emissions in a measurable manner, although Strategy TR-2 reduces emissions from agricultural equipment (part of the off-road equipment sector) and Strategy NI-4 may affect agricultural emissions by supporting increased carbon farming and sequestration on the County’s natural and working lands. ▪ Off-road equipment: The CAAP achieves reductions in off-road equipment GHG emissions by promoting replacing gasoline and diesel-fueled equipment with electric models, as discussed in Strategy TR-2. ▪ Water and wastewater: The primary contributor to GHG emission reductions from water and wastewater is the State’s RPS program. Water-efficiency standards in Strategy DR-1 account for the remaining GHG emission reductions. ▪ BART: The State’s RPS program reduces GHG emissions from BART operations. •▪ Land use and sequestration: Strategy NI-4 in the CAAP, which increases carbon farming and sequestration on the County’s natural and working lands, drives the GHG reductions in the land use and sequestration sector. With the reductions currently projected from the 2024 GHG emissions reduction strategies, GHG emissions for the unincorporated county are expected to be reduced to 856 percent below 1990 levels, equal to 878 percent below baseline 2005 levels andor 85 83 percent below 2019 levels. These reductions are predicted to occur across most GHG emission sectors, though emissions within the Solid Waste sector will continue to be affected by previously deposited waste continuing to decompose in landfills. As noted previously, there is the potential for these strategies to yield additional GHG emission reductions as County staff and decision makers develop and institute implementation actions and monitor the results. With these reductions as currently assessed, unincorporated Contra Costa County achieves the GHG emissions reduction goals for 2030 and 2045, as shown in Table 11. The County may reduce emissions faster than expected as it implements the CAAP, and it will report on this progress as part of the CAAP monitoring activities. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 113 TABLE 11. 2024 GHG EMISSION REDUCTIONS AND REGULATORY GOALS 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E GHG emissions goals 658,700 164,680 GHG emissions with CAAP strategies 639,460 163,130 Gap to GHG emission reduction goal* -19,240 -1,550 Note: Due to rounding, totals may not equal the sum of the individual values. * Negative values mean that the strategies reduce GHG emissions to below the goal. THE 2024 CAAP AND NET CARBON NEUTRALITY Achieving net carbon neutrality in Contra Costa County will require implementation of GHG reduction efforts that meet the County’s regulatory goals, in combination with carbon sequestration and potentially other methods to “zero out” the remaining emissions. The 2024 CAAP achieves significant reductions in GHG emissions, consistent with the County’s emission reduction goals, and places Contra Costa County on a path to support statewide net carbon neutrality by 2045. Currently, there is insufficient guidance and certainty around local carbon sequestration, storage, and potential carbon offset strategies to mathematically demonstrate with certainty that the 2024 CAAP will achieve carbon neutrality by 2045. However, the County believes that such guidance and certainty will emerge in future years as the County, regional agencies, and the State further explore the opportunities, develop guidance and methods, and validate new technology. When available, guidance on quantifying how to achieve carbon neutrality will be integrated into future updates of this 2024 CAAP. For the foreseeable future, achieving net the County’s GHG emissions reductions goals, including carbon neutrality, will likely not be feasible without the use of local carbon sequestration, notably on natural and working lands. Although GHG emissions can be eliminated from many of the County’s GHG emissions sources, this is not practical for every source given technical, economic, or political considerations. Assuming implementation of the strategies in this 2024 CAAP, Figure 15 shows the major sources of Contra Costa County’s remaining GHG emissions in 2045. Chapter 4 114 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 FIGURE 15. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY 2045 GHG EMISSIONS WITH IMPLEMENTATION OF 2024 CAAP Note: Percentage totals in this chart do not account for emissions in the land use and sequestration sector (natural and working lands, urban trees, and developed land). With implementation of the 2024 CAAP, the land use and sequestration sector is projected to sequester 147,800 MTCO2e in 2045. Not including emissions associated with land use and sequestration.The “Other emissions” category is composed of emissions from BART; water and wastewater sectors; land development activities; and propane, kerosene, and wood used as heating fuels. The County should take advantage of future opportunities to reduce the GHG emissions from these sources as much as possible, ideally to zero. However, for GHG emissions that cannot be feasibly reduced in the short and near term, carbon sequestration on natural and working lands is the preferred strategy to “cancel out” these emissions so that the County’s net GHG emissions from remaining sources are zero. Should the County find that there continue to be GHG emissions, the County may want to consider and related strategies to remove carbon from the atmosphere may be able to “cancel out” these emissions so that the County’s net GHG emissions from remaining sources are zero. if equity and GHG emissions and other potential pollution concerns can be addressed. 0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100% Landfills On-road vehicles Building natural gas use Agricultural activities Off-road equipment Other emissions Solid waste generation Landfills (35%) On-road vehicles (19%) Building natural gas (12%) Agriculture (10%) Off-road equipment (9%) Other emissions (8%) Solid waste (7%) CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 115 5. CLIMATE ADAPTATION STRATEGY 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Photo credit: Envision Contra Costa picture gallery. Vulnerability Assessment Summary Contra Costa County prepared a vulnerability assessment that examines how people and assets in the county may be affected by the hazards related to climate change discussed in Chapter 3. This vulnerability assessment considers how severe the effects of these hazards are likely to be and identifies the groups of people and assets who face the greatest potential for harm. It considers both the current and future climate conditions in the unincorporated area of the county following the methods recommended by the California Adaptation Planning Guide prepared by the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services. An abridged version of the key vulnerability assessment results is presented here. Appendix C provides detailed information on the vulnerability assessment methods and results. Some hazards can occur virtually anywhere in Contra Costa County or may affect the entire county. This includes drought, human health hazards, and air quality impacts. Other hazards are much more likely in specific locations, such as landslides and flooding. However, people and assets outside of affected areas may still be harmed if the hazard creates a series of cascading impacts that ripple beyond the immediate hazard zone. For example, a fire near Orinda may close Highway 24 and the BART tracks in that area, interrupting BART service in the central and east parts of Contra Costa County and causing traffic congestion on alternate routes. The vulnerability assessment considers these indirect impacts and reflects them in its scores. Chapter 5 116 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 EFFECTS ON POPULATIONS Although climate change will affect everyone, some populations in the unincorporated county are likely to be affected more than others. This can include the risk of injury, death, or property damage or destruction, and can also include economic impacts and loss of income, behavioral and mental health impacts, and an overall decrease in quality of life. Impacted Communities, who have been historically under-resourced and are already more likely to face constraints such as limited financial resources, reduced access to education and job opportunities, and increased exposure to environmental hazards, are likely to be further affected as climate change–related hazards increase in frequency and severity. Other groups of people are also likely to be disproportionately affected, including senior citizens, renters, and persons with chronic health conditions. People with limited financial means, such as low-income persons and cost- burdened households (those who must spend more than 30 percent of their income on housing) are often vulnerable because they may lack the resources to retrofit their home against hazardous conditions or to move to an area with less risk. For example, low- income persons are less likely to live in homes that have reliable air conditioning and may not be able to afford to install these systems themselves, which puts them at greater risk of harm from extreme temperatures. They also face greater vulnerabilities because they may be less able to withstand a temporary loss of income if their work is affected by climate change–related hazards. People who work in outdoor activities, such as construction, agriculture, and recreation, are usually more susceptible. Lack of access to resources not only includes financial resources, but also communication, transportation, education, and other community services. Even people who are relatively well-off financially can be disproportionately affected by climate change–related hazards if they are physically or socially isolated. For example, persons with limited English proficiency may not be able to interact with officials, and persons without lifelines such as transportation, or broadband internet or other forms of reliable communication, may not be able to get accurate information about hazardous situations. This often makes it harder for them to get the resources needed to prepare for or respond to an emergency. Renters Due to the high cost of living in Contra Costa County, “low-income households” include some households who might be considered financially well off in other places. In 2022, a family of four in Contra Costa County is considered “low- income” if its annual income is lower than $109,600. 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 117 face similar threats because even if they have the financial resources to adapt to changing conditions, they have limited control over their home. Physical constraints can also make people more susceptible to climate change. Persons with disabilities may find it harder to prepare for hazardous events, and some hazards can exacerbate chronic health conditions and create a greater threat for persons with these conditions. Young children and senior citizens are disproportionately affected by some hazards, such as extreme heat and air pollution, even if they are entirely healthy. Senior citizens living alone are often at greater risk since they are more likely to be socially isolated. Persons with physical constraints are also more likely to need assistance during evacuations. The health equity of populations is also closely associated with racism, historic discrimination, and a wide range of socioeconomic conditions. The 2024 CAAP includes “place-based strategies”, such as efforts to enhance availability and access to resources and physical infrastructure. These strategies advance the County’s efforts to address GHG emissions as well as offer enhanced resilience in Impacted Communities. EFFECTS ON BUILDINGS AND INFRASTRUCTURE The vulnerability assessment considers the effects of climate change–related hazards on buildings and infrastructure, including private homes and businesses, public facilities such as government offices and libraries, and important institutions such as schools and hospitals. This category also includes infrastructure networks such as the electrical grid, roadways, rail lines, and water and wastewater systems. Buildings and infrastructure in hazard-prone areas are naturally vulnerable to damage or destruction from hazards that occur in those areas, such as floods, landslides, sea level rise, and wildfires. Designing new structures to be more resilient against these hazards or hardening existing ones to better resist them can help reduce the threat. The loss of key buildings and infrastructure systems can create potentially severe effects throughout the county. The loss of homes in a natural disaster means that a potentially large group of people must be temporarily housed while their homes go through the lengthy reconstruction process. Some people may choose not to return to their former community. Damages to businesses can cause economic harm to business owners and employees as well as members of various communities. For example, sea level rise and coastal flooding can interrupt many of the industrial and manufacturing centers located along the Contra Costa County shoreline, creating temporary or permanent loss of income for their employees, with possible cascading impacts such as harming the tax base and well-being of various communities. Chapter 5 118 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Infrastructure networks, despite their county-spanning size, are also vulnerable to disruption from hazards related to climate change. Damage to just one or a few key nodes or components of an infrastructure system can cause a chain reaction that restricts or shuts down the network across a much wider area. For example, 26 bridges in Contra Costa County are in areas at risk of a 100-year flood or dam inundation. Even though these bridges make up a very small portion of the overall roadway network in the county, damage to them can force travelers to take potentially long and congested detours or may render some areas completely inaccessible. Loss of key buildings or parts of infrastructure networks can also harm important community services that rely on these networks. This is particularly true for transportation infrastructure, such as roads and railways. If these systems are damaged or blocked, this can also block access by emergency response and public transit services vehicles. Even if alternate buildings and infrastructure networks are available, the alternatives may not be able to accommodate the change in demand. For example, 10 schools in Contra Costa County are in high and very high fire hazard severity zones. Although this is a relatively small proportion of the overall number of schools in the county, if some of these schools are damaged by wildfires, there may not be capacity at other, unharmed schools to take in all the displaced students. Contra Costa County’s infrastructure networks are connected to much larger regional, State, and national systems. These systems are vulnerable to disruption from outside of Contra Costa County, resulting in a loss of service to community members. For example, most of the water used in the unincorporated areas of the county is imported from the Sierra Nevada through a complex system of pumps, aqueducts, and reservoirs. Damage at any point along this system can affect Contra Costa County’s water supply, causing restricted water service. Many components of this system pass through eastern Contra Costa County and other low-lying areas of the Delta region, where they are particularly vulnerable to sea level rise. Buildings and infrastructure do not need to be physically damaged to trigger a loss of service. For example, extreme heat makes the machinery of the power grid run less efficiently and simultaneously increases demand to meet greater cooling needs. This combination raises the risk of the grid overloading and causing brownouts or blackouts. Similarly, drought conditions harm water delivery services but do not cause physical damage to pipes or water treatment plants. Economic drivers can also be affected without experiencing physical damage, such as when businesses are forced to close because of a public health emergency. 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 119 EFFECTS ON ECOSYSTEMS AND NATURAL RESOURCES Many of the ecosystems and other natural resources in California are unique to the state and have evolved under local conditions, including climate patterns. However, the unprecedented rate of change in the climate system can rapidly create local conditions unfavorable to ecosystems, killing them or forcing them out of the area before they have the chance to adapt. Damage or loss of local ecosystems and natural resources is harmful for its own sake, but it also affects the people and economy of Contra Costa County. Many ecosystems provide important services for communities, such as protection against floods and high winds, groundwater recharge and filtration, and home for pollinators and beneficial species. The natural environment provides recreational and tourism opportunities, contributes to the valued character of Contra Costa County, and helps maintain a high quality of life. Climate change often results in species and even entire ecosystems being forced out of their historical range and moving to areas that provide their preferred living conditions. In some cases, there may no longer be places in Contra Costa County that can support these ecosystems, and they disappear from the area. For example, the conifer forests in the hills of west county depend on fog and its cooling benefit in summer temperatures. As temperatures increase and coastal fog is expected to decrease, these trees may not survive. Habitat loss can also exacerbate this problem. For example, in a natural system, wetlands will migrate inland as sea levels rise. However, if the inland areas are blocked by development or other barriers, the wetlands cannot migrate and could disappear. Even if overall temperature and precipitation patterns remain favorable to key ecosystems and natural resources, the increased frequency and severity of some climate change– related hazards can harm these important community assets. Wildfires are a prime example of this. Many ecosystems in California, especially forests, rely on naturally Meadow environments such as this are highly susceptible to several climate change-related hazards. Photo credit: Deidra Dingman. Chapter 5 120 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 occurring wildfires to remove dead vegetation and return nutrients to the soil, and some species rely on fires for reproduction. However, increases in the intensity of wildfires mean that trees that could survive relatively low-level fires may not be able to survive much more severe blazes. Similarly, though occasional fires may be beneficial, too-frequent fires can kill young trees before they establish themselves, creating a risk that trees will be replaced by more rapidly growing grasses and brushlands. In some cases, climate change leads to cumulative impacts that can weaken or kill ecosystems. Species that have adapted to be relatively resistant to one or a small number of hazards may still be vulnerable to multiple hazards that happen at the same time or one after another in close succession. For example, forestry pests have long been a presence in California, and though they may kill individual trees or stands of trees, forests and woodlands are generally not significantly affected. However, drought and extreme temperatures weaken trees, making them more vulnerable to pests that could not do serious damage under normal conditions. At the same time, warmer temperatures can increase pest numbers and keep them active for more of the year, so they can do more damage than they could previously. This and similar cumulative effects mean that species and ecosystems that could resist hazardous events under normal conditions may be much more susceptible to them because of climate change. Adaptation Strategies A key goal of the 2024 CAAP is to reduce Contra Costa County’s GHG emissions. Combined with other global GHG emissions reduction efforts, the 2024 CAAP will help to prevent more severe effects of climate change. However, some degree of climate change is inevitable. Climate conditions in recent years in Contra Costa County are already different from historical conditions, and community members have already observed more frequent and intense climate change–related hazards. Contra Costa County will have to adapt to future climate conditions; acting now or in the short term will help communities be more resilient to climate change–related hazards expected decades in the future. This 2024 CAAP includes a set of adaptation strategies. These strategies respond to the key vulnerabilities identified by the vulnerability assessment; concerns about current and future conditions raised by community members and County officials; and best practices in the region and across California to help promote a more unified climate adaptation response. While these climate adaptation strategies do not directly result in measurable GHG emissions reductions, they do support the GHG emissions reduction strategies and contribute to a comprehensive climate change response. 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 121 The adaptation strategies are organized into two categories, each with its own goal: Climate Equity (CE) Resilient Communities and Natural Infrastructure (NI) As with the GHG emissions reduction strategies, the adaptation strategies support co- benefits, that is, benefits that the strategy provides to communities beyond increased resilience. Cost savings Enhanced recreation opportunities Greater community resilience Greater energy independence Improved air quality Improved community equity Improved public health Increased economic opportunities Increased resilience to pests Reduced disaster effects Reduced landfill waste Reduced resource use General Plan alignment As with the GHG reduction efforts in Chapter 4, the adaptation goals, strategies, and recommended implementation actions discussed in this chapter align with climate adaptation goals, policies, and actions in the County’s General Plan, as discussed in Chapter 1. When the 2024 CAAP and General Plan address similar topics, the language used in both documents is identical or at least consistent, ensuring that both are in sync and provide a unified approach to addressing climate adaptation. Chapter 5 122 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 RESILIENT COMMUNITIES AND NATURAL INFRASTRUCTURE (NI) CONTRA COSTA COUNTY WILL INCREASE RESILIENCE TO CLIMATE HAZARDS AND FOSTER COMMUNITY HEALTH. The 2024 CAAP takes steps to improve the resilience of Contra Costa County’s unincorporated communities by ensuring that structures and infrastructure are responsive to flooding, sea level rise, fire, heat, and other climate change hazards. Natural features such as trees, soils, and water can help make the county more resilient by absorbing carbon and modulating the effects of heat, sea level rise, and flooding. Community resilience hubs can serve as centralized locations for electricity access, cooling and clean air centers, and emergency preparedness and response resources. In addition to the General Plan, the strategies and actions in this goal integrate with the Contra Costa County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan and the Community Wildfire Protection Plan. The Local Hazard Mitigation Plan assesses risk to people and facilities from hazardous conditions and includes mitigation actions to reduce or eliminate risks, particularly in the short term. The Community Wildfire Protection Plan provides a snapshot of current wildfire protection challenges and capabilities, identifies and prioritizes areas for hazardous fuel reduction, and recommends types and methods of vegetation management that may help protect the affiliated communities from wildfire losses. The Contra Costa County Emergency Operations Plan describes the structures and processes the County follows to respond to and recover from emergency events. The County’s Extreme Weather Working Group collaborated in 2024 to create a series of hazard-specific plans or annexes that support the Emergency Operations Plan. These annexes identify County departments’ roles and responsibilities and create a framework for cities to follow during extreme heat, extreme cold, or poor air quality events. These annexes guide emergency planning and response to these events and bolster the County’s “whole community” approach to improve resilience today. Hercules waterfront. Photo credit: Emily Groth. 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 123 NI-1: Protect against and adapt to changes in sea levels and other shoreline flooding conditions. This strategy aims to protect communities against permanent and temporary inundation from rising sea levels and shoreline flooding through green infrastructure, effective building siting and retrofits, and informed land use decisions. Strategy NI-1 Co-benefits: Enhanced recreation opportunities Greater community resilience Reduced disaster impacts Strategy NI-1 Actions: ▪ Require new development to locate habitable areas of buildings above the highest water level expected, accounting for sea level rise and other changes in flood conditions, or construct natural and nature-based features, or a levee, if necessary, adequately designed to protect the project for its expected life. (HS- P6.1) ▪ Support the use of natural infrastructure, including ecosystem restoration and green infrastructure, to protect against sea level rise and associated shoreline flooding. ▪ Coordinate with State and regional agencies, neighboring jurisdictions, property owners, utilities, and others to prepare a sea level rise adaptation plan. ▪ Seek funding and pursue implementation of wetland restoration and other adaptation efforts for sea level rise. Sea level rise and other coastal flooding hazards threaten structures built near the shoreline. As of December 2023, 28.3 acres of County right- of-way had been converted to green infrastructure, with another 11.1 acres planned. The County continues to incorporate pervious paving in some projects, including projects at the El Sobrante Library and Rio Vista Elementary School in Bay Point. Chapter 5 124 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 ▪ Convene a working group that includes local jurisdictions, local shoreline communities, community-based organizations, property owners, businesses, and other stakeholders to collaborate on shoreline flooding adaptation strategies. ▪ Identify opportunities for employing natural areas as buffers against rising sea levels. NI-2: Protect against and adapt to increases in the frequency and intensity of wildfire events. This strategy aims to increase community resilience to the direct and indirect effects of wildfires, both locally and regionally. Public and private property shall be designed and maintained to minimize the risk of damage from wildfires; infrastructure systems will be hardened and designed to include redundancy; and emergency management plans and practices for wildfires will be responsive to the needs of Impacted Communities. Strategy NI-2 Co-benefits: Greater community resilience Improved community equity Improved public health Reduced disaster impacts Contra Costa Resilient Shoreline Ad Hoc Committee The Board of Supervisors established the Contra Costa Resilient Shoreline Ad Hoc Committee at the May 16, 2023, Board of Supervisors meeting. The committee makes recommendations to the Board on work the County can do to plan for sea level rise and improve shoreline resiliency. The committee also provides a dedicated space for Contra Costa County to consider how local sea level rise resilience and adaptation efforts can complement regional efforts happening across the San Francisco Bay Area. The committee has been meeting regularly since October 12, 2023. 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 125 Strategy NI-2 Actions: ▪ Prohibit new residential subdivisions in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones and discourage residential subdivisions in High Fire Hazard Severity ZonesDeny entitlements for projects creating additional residential units in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the LRA or SRA. Discourage such projects in High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the SRA and discourage them in such zones in the LRA unless adequate fire protection services are provided.11 (HS-P7.1) ▪ Require any construction of buildings or infrastructure within a High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone in the Local or State Responsibility Areas, or in areas that may be designated as the Wildland-Urban Interface, to incorporate fire-safe design features that meet the applicable State Fire Safe Regulations and Hazard Reduction Around Buildings and Structures Regulation for road ingress and egress, fire equipment access, and adequate water supply. (HS-P7.2) ▪ Require subdivisions in the High Fire Hazard Severity Zone in the Local or State Responsibility Areas, or projects requiring a land use permit in the High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone in the Local or State Responsibility Areas, to complete a site-specific fire protection plan. Collaborate Work with the appropriate fire protection district to review and revise the fire protection plans. (HS- P7.34) ▪ Work with property owners in mapped High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones or in areas that may be designated as the Wildland-Urban Interface, to establish and maintain fire breaks and defensible space, vegetation clearance, and 11 High and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones are mapped by CAL FIRE. Designations are based on factors that influence fire likelihood and fire behavior. Many factors are considered, such as fire history, existing and potential fuel (natural vegetation), predicted flame length, blowing embers, terrain, and typical fire weather for the area. Fire Protection Plans According to General Plan Policy HS-P7.3, a fire protection plan shall include measures for fire- resistant construction materials and modifying fuel loading, as well as a plan to maintain that protection over time. The fire protection plan shall include: a) A risk analysis b) Fire response capabilities c) Defensible space requirements d) Fire safety requirements for infrastructure e) Building ignition resistance f) Mitigation measures and design for non-conforming fuel modification g) Wildfire education h) Maintenance and limitations i) A plan for emergency preparedness, response, and evacuation Chapter 5 126 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 firefighting infrastructure that meets adopted State, County, or community fire safety standards. (HS-P7.45) ▪ Support undergrounding ofCoordinate with energy service providers to underground power utility lines, especially in the Wildland-Urban Interface and Fire Hazard Severity Zones. (HS-P7.810) ▪ Review indoor air filtration standards and consider whether filtration requirements can and should be strengthened for projects permitted by the County. ▪ Work with community organizations to help Impacted Communities have access to financing and other resources to reduce the fire risk on their property, prepare for wildfire events, and allow for a safe and speedy recovery. NI-3: Establish and maintain community resilience hubs. The intent of this strategy is to establish and maintain community resilience hubs with microgrids, education, training opportunities, and other community-focused resources. Under this strategy, the County develops a feasibility analysis and implementation plan for siting community resilience hubs across the county, with attention to Impacted Communities, and identifies opportunities for battery storage projects at County facilities. County emergency planners help enact this strategy by ensuring emergency response plans include climate change disasters such as wildfires, sea level rise, flooding, extreme heat, and drought. These efforts emphasize equitable recovery for Impacted Communities and those affected by environmental justice issues. Strategy NI-3 Co-benefits: Greater community resilience Improved community equity Increased resilience to pests Strategy NI-3 Actions: ▪ Pursue funding to develop a resilience hub master plan that identifies existing community facilities that can serve as resilience hubs and support affected populations during hazard events. This process should start with an assessment of community needs. Such facilities should be distributed equitably throughout the county, with an emphasis on easy access for Impacted Communities. Where appropriate facilities do not exist, develop plans to create new resilience hubs. (Supported by HS-P8.1) 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 127 ▪ Pursue funding to implement the resilience hub master plan, including retrofitting selected facilities to function as resilience hubs. These retrofits should involve adding solar panels, battery backup systems, water resources, air filtration, supplies to meet basic community and emergency medical needs, and other needs as identified by the resilience hub master plan. ▪ Create a virtual resilience hub that connects County resources to communities through virtual community networks to provide detailed, up-to-date information about preparing for natural disasters, public safety notifications and alerts, space for virtual gathering and information-sharing, and other appropriate uses. Materials shall be accessible in multiple languages. ▪ Coordinate resilience hub activities with planning efforts around public safety power shutoffs and wildfire smoke resiliency. NI-4: Sequester carbon on natural and working lands in Contra Costa County. NI-4 contributes significantly to the County’s resilience efforts, but because it results in measurable GHG emissions reductions, it is part of the County’s GHG emissions reduction approach and is included in Chapter 4. NI-5: Minimize heat island effects through the use of cool roofs, and green infrastructure, tree canopy, cool paint and pavement, and other emerging strategies. With this strategy, impacts of heat islands are addressed and minimized through construction practices for buildings and structures, including through ample shading opportunity and other green infrastructure improvements, including green stormwater infrastructure. Chapter 5 128 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Strategy NI-5 Co-benefits: Improved air quality Improved community equity Improved public health Increased economic opportunities Reduced disaster impacts Reduced resource use Strategy NI-5 Actions: ▪ Require landscaping for new development to be drought-tolerant, filter and retain runoff and support flood management and groundwater recharge. (COS-P-7.7) ▪ Promote installation of drought-tolerant green infrastructure, including street trees, in landscaped public areas. (COS-P7.8) ▪ Increase tree planting in urbanized areas and open spaces, where ecologically appropriate, emphasizing areas with limited existing tree cover, using low-maintenance native tree species that are low fire risk, and ensuring water supply resources are not compromised. (Supported by COS-P6.2) ▪ Consider preparing and implementing an Urban Forest Management Plan, or Tree Master Plan for the unincorporated county. ▪ Provide shade trees or shade structures at parks, plazas, and other outdoor spaces where feasible. ▪ Update When updating the County tree ordinances that relate to trees and green infrastructure, to consider whether factors for approval of tree removal and/or replanting requirements are adequately promote expansion of the tree canopy and green infrastructure inconsidering Impacted Communities (e.g., tree cover, replanting standard). (Supported by TR-A2.2, HS-P2.2, and HS-A2.5) ▪ Support efforts to develop incentive programs for home and business owners, school districts, and other local and regional property owners to increase the adoption of cool roofs, and green infrastructure, and other cooling strategies on private property. 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 129 Urban Heat Islands: Tree Cover and Impervious Surfaces The urban heat island effect is one of the most important aspects of how neighborhood conditions can exacerbate extreme heat. Urban heat islands are areas with little tree cover and significant portions of land covered by impervious surfaces or artificial structures covered with impenetrable materials, such as pavement and rooftops. Temperatures in these areas may be significantly hotter than in surrounding areas, especially at night, because impervious surfaces retain heat absorbed throughout the day. Addressing heat islands may also be an important lever for health equity, as researchers have found that low-income people and people of color are more likely to live in areas with land cover characteristics conducive to urban heat islands. Additionally, research has identified a correlation between home values and tree cover, meaning that addressing urban heat islands carries implications for financial equity. Actions to reduce the heat island effect also offer mitigation co-benefits, as increased tree cover can store carbon dioxide, as well as provide shade that reduces energy consumption needed for cooling buildings. Many cities in Contra Costa County contain areas with very little contiguous tree cover, including most of the cities in East and West County, along with significant parts of Martinez, Concord, Danville, and San Ramon. Areas with very high percentages of impervious surfaces exist in many of the same urban areas with little tree cover. Areas with a high percentage of impervious surfaces are concentrated in North Richmond, San Pablo, Richmond, and El Cerrito, and in some tracts in cities in Central and East County. Chapter 5 130 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 NI-6: Protect communities against additional hazards created or exacerbated by climate change. The goal of this strategy is to reduce impacts from other climate-related hazards, including drought, flooding, landslides, and severe weather. In accordance with this strategy, development projects are sited and designed to reduce exposure to hazardous conditions, and community members receive the support and assistance needed to prepare for and recover from natural disasters. Strategy NI-6 Co-benefits: Cost savings Greater community resilience Greater energy independence Improved community equity Improved public health Increased resilience to pests Reduced disaster impacts Strategy NI-6 Actions: ▪ Discourage new below-market-rate housing in High and Very High Wildfire Hazard Severity Zones, the Wildland-Urban Interface, and Alquist-Priolo Fault Zones. If below- market-rate housing must be constructed within these zones, require it to be hardened or make use of nature-based solutions to remain habitable to the greatest extent possible. (HS-P4.32) ▪ Treat susceptibility to hazards and threats to human health and life as primary considerations when reviewing all development proposals and changes to land uses. ▪ Partner with community-based organizations to provide information to community members about how to prepare for projected climate change hazards. ▪ Promote, and develop as necessary, available funding sources to create incentives for residents and businesses to prepare for natural disasters, particularly members of Impacted Communities. 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 131 ▪ Consider projected impacts of climate change when siting, designing, and identifying the construction and maintenance costs of capital projects. ▪ Actively promote and expand participation in local and regional community emergency preparedness and response programs. ▪ Support and fund efforts to enhance ongoing community and cross-sector engagement in community-level resilience and cohesion. Support non-governmental organizations to actively engage in developing a network of community-level actions that enhance resiliency. ▪ Work with energy service providers to promote programs encouraging reduced energy use during extreme heat events. (HS-P8.2) ▪ Support efforts by East Bay Regional Park District and other local recreation agencies to provide outdoor recreation facilities with adequate shading and refillable water stations where appropriate. (HS-P8.4) Chapter 5 132 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CLIMATE EQUITY (CE) CONTRA COSTA COUNTY WILL ADDRESS ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS LEADING TO HEALTH DISPARITIES, PROMOTE SAFE AND LIVABLE COMMUNITIES, AND PROMOTE INVESTMENTS THAT IMPROVE NEIGHBORHOOD ACCESSIBILITY. Ensuring that Contra Costa County’s unincorporated communities are a welcoming and resilient home to diverse families, individuals, and businesses as the effects of climate change intensify around the world means ensuring that the County’s climate action strategies are built on a foundation of justice and equity. Equity, justice, and the climate resilience they engender can take many forms across different sectors and include such strategies as supporting family-sustaining jobs in sustainable industries, providing equitably distributed green space, facilitating access to fresh and healthy food, and ensuring that all Contra Costa County departments and citizens are actively engaged in climate action planning. An important aspect of Climate Equity will be using culturally and linguistically appropriate methods. Climate action planning entails mobilizing the entire community to adopt a way of life and way of doing business that will not only weather the disruptions caused by climate change but will continue to thrive far into the future. CE-1: Provide access to affordable, clean, safe, and healthy housing and jobs. Strategy CE-1 aims to ensure that all residents live in clean, healthy homes and neighborhoods; have access to parks, open space, and fresh food; have easy access to safe and affordable mobility options; and are trained for and have access to living wage jobs. The County commits to implementing the 2024 CAAP strategies for equitable benefits to Impacted Communities, ensures every County department integrates climate issues and climate-related effects in services to residents, and meaningfully and continuously engages the communities most affected by climate change with developing and implementing appropriate solutions. 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 133 Strategy CE-1 Co-benefits: Enhanced recreation opportunities Greater community resilience Improved community equity Increased economic opportunities Increased resilience to pests Strategy CE-1 Actions: ▪ In partnership with community-based organizations, reverse community deterioration and blight and improve personal and property safety in neighborhoods throughout Contra Costa County. ▪ Ensure that new housing for households making less than the area median income and housing for other Impacted Communities are outside of hazard-prone areas, including for wildfires, landslides, floods, and sea level rise, or that they are hardened or make use of nature-based solutions to remain habitable to the greatest extent possible. (Supported by HS-P4.32) ▪ In partnership with community-based organizations, secure funding to create a program to provide low-cost or free air conditioning and filtration, improved insulation, low- emitting materials, energy solar and storage systems, energy efficiency, and indoor ventilation in homes, emphasizing buildings that are home to Impacted Community members. (SC-A6.2, SC-A6.3) ▪ Track development of local micro-grid battery storage policies and systems in other jurisdictions and identify potential opportunities for Contra Costa County. ▪ Encourage companies and entrepreneurs from local universities and national labs to create jobs in such industries as renewable energy, transportation technology, diverse forms of manufacturing, biotech/biomedical, and clean tech. ▪ Partner with local schools, the community college district, community-based organizations, labor unions, Workforce Development Boards, and other appropriate groups to provide training for residents for family-sustaining jobs in sustainable industries. Prioritize training for people currently or recently working in polluting or extractive activities. (SC-P1.1) Chapter 5 134 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 ▪ Provide support for State and federal programs that support family-sustaining jobs in sustainable industries, efforts to support organized labor, and living wage labor standards. ▪ Adopt an ordinance at least as stringent as the State’s maximum idling law, and coordinate with CARB and law enforcement to achieve compliance. (HS-A1.5) CE-2: Invest in solutions to support climate equity. With this strategy in place, County investments support climate equity. The County implements best practices in environmental, social, and governance considerations as the 2024 CAAP is implemented. Strategy CE-2 Co-benefits: Improved community equity Increased economic opportunities Strategy CE-2 Actions: ▪ Evaluate and adjust County planning and expenditures for infrastructure and services as needed to ensure equitable investment in Impacted Communities, consistent with SB 1000. ▪ Work with County departments to incorporate addressing climate change, providing climate solutions, and enhancing community equity more fully into County operations and the broad range of services the County provides. ▪ As part of the 2024 CAP2024 CAAP and General Plan implementation, consider whether the strategy being implemented provides equitable benefits for Impacted Communities as a criterion for prioritization. ▪ Continually engage communities most affected by climate change in developing and implementing climate solutions and ensure that such solutions provide benefits to Impacted Communities. ▪ Advocate for the Contra Costa Employees Retirement Association to include use of Environmental, Social, and Governance criteria in its investment policies. ▪ Require that the County’s Deferred Compensation Plan provider make available Environmental, Social, and Governance investment options for employees participating in the County’s 457 deferred compensation program. (In Progress) 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 135 ▪ Amend the County investment policy to consider the use of Environmental, Social, and Governance criteria and to continue and improve efforts to divest from fossil fuels. (Completed) ▪ Work with schools, the Contra Costa County Library, business groups, and community- based organizations to educate and inform community members about climate change and related sustainability topics, and the County’s climate goals and the actions the County is taking to achieve them. ▪ Evaluate the issuance of Labeled Bonds, such as “Green”, “Sustainable”, or “Social” bonds, during the planning stage of a bond issuance by the County. It is the County’s preference to issue Labeled Bonds if the evaluation demonstrates a financial or policy benefit to the County. (Completed) The County submitted a signed Agreement with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development in July 2023 for a $750,000 Community Project Funding grant to fund the development of a Just Transition Economic Revitalization Plan (JTERP). The JTERP is a plan for transitioning away from an economy that is dependent on fossil fuels to a zero-emission and clean and green economy and for improving the health, safety, infrastructure, and job opportunities of residents in communities most impacted by the environmental burdens of the climate crisis. On June 13, 2023, the Board of Supervisors approved the County’s Investment Policy for Fiscal Year 2023-2024. The policy includes a new provision regarding the prohibition of investment in securities issued by fossil fuel companies and the consideration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria. Chapter 5 136 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CE-3: Increase access to parks and open space. All County residents have easy access to parks and open space under this strategy. The County has an easily accessible and integrated system of high-quality, safe, and well- maintained parks and trails for all residents of the unincorporated county, including Impacted Communities. Strategy CE-3 Co-benefits: Enhanced recreation opportunities Greater community resilience Improved air quality Improved community equity Improved public health Increased economic opportunities Reduced disaster effects Strategy CE-3 Actions: ▪ Establish a goal for all residents to live within a half- mile of a park or other green space. ▪ Support land acquisition for new parks and open space areas and protect such lands through fee title acquisition or through deed restrictions like conservation easements. ▪ Continue to construct and develop opportunities for new trails. ▪ Support investment in existing park facilities, in partnership with regional agencies. ▪ Increase the tree canopy on public property, especially in Impacted Communities and areas with a high heat index, by prioritizing funding for new street tree planting and maintenance. (HS-P2.2) El Cerrito playground. Photo credit: Amalia Cunningham. 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 137 CE-4: Ensure residents have equitable, year-round access to affordable, local fresh food. With this strategy in place, county residents will have increased access to local fresh food. The County facilitates the creation of more Certified Farmers’ Markets, supports urban gardens, and ensures that healthy food is affordable and accessible to Impacted Communities and those in food desert areas. Strategy CE-4 Co-benefits: Improved community equity Improved public health Increased economic opportunities Strategy CE-4 Actions: ▪ Support establishment of year-round Certified Farmers’ Markets in all communities, prioritizing Impacted Communities. ▪ Work with community groups to establish and maintain urban gardens, particularly on vacant lots and park land in Impacted Communities. (SC-P4.1) ▪ Encourage major supermarkets to locate in Impacted Communities. ▪ Support co-operative grocery markets in Impacted Communities. Little Sprouts Farm in Bay Point. Chapter 5 138 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CE-5: Ensure that large industrial facilities act as good neighbors. This strategy helps to make sure that large industrial facilities are good neighbors. The County makes recommendations to responsible permitting agencies regarding permits for fossil-fuel based industries and/or point sources, tracks data on fossil fuel products produced and/or transported in and through Contra Costa County and allows for a Just Transition away from polluting and extractive industries. Strategy CE-5 Co-benefits: Improved air quality Improved community equity Improved public health Increased economic opportunities Strategy CE-5 Actions: ▪ Provide recommendations to responsible permit agencies regarding permits for fossil fuel-based industries and point sources Provide comments to responsible permit agencies on permit applications for large industrial facilities with significant emissions on potential measures to reduce impacts on and provide benefits to neighboring unincorporated communities. ▪ Regularly track data on fossil fuel production and transportation in Contra Costa County. ▪ Encourage the economic development of industries and supply chains that emphasize a reduction in GHG emissions. ▪ Encourage economic development and job creation in industries that advance the County’s sustainability goals, using the County’s policy on enhanced infrastructure financing districts. ▪ As economic conditions change, support efforts to phase out heavily polluting and extractive industries and replace them with businesses that contribute to a regenerative and circular economy. ▪ Require new or expanded commercial and industrial projects exceeding resulting in 25,000 square feet or more of gross habitable floor area to be near zero-emission operations, including the facilities themselves and the associated fleets, except for uses with fewer than five vehicles domiciled on-site. Require all necessary measures to achieve near- –zero- emissions. (HS-P1.8) 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 139 Collectively, the strategies in this section will help community members and assets adapt to changing climate conditions and improve resilience to climate change–related hazards as well as confer many relevant co-benefits. Unlike the GHG emissions reduction strategies in Chapter 4, adaptation strategies do not have quantitative goals. However, these strategies can contribute to quantified benefits, including reductions in property damage, decreases in the number or severity of hazard events, and preservation of key community standards. These quantified benefits also support performance standards discussed in the General Plan elements. Near-Zero Operations for Large Commercial or Industrial Facilities According to General Plan Policy HS-P1.8, measures to achieve near-zero emissions for large commercial or industrial projects may include: a) Reduce on-site energy consumption and increase on-site energy generation and energy storage. b) Provide adequate on-site zero-emission vehicle-capable parking for all anticipated truck traffic to prevent idling and off-site queuing. c) Provide electrified loading docks with receptables allowing plug-in of refrigerated trailers. d) Use heavy-duty trucks that are model year 2014 or later and expedite a transition to zero-emission trucks by establishing a clear timeline for electrification of trucks as they become commercially available. Ensure contracts with motor carriers include air quality incentives or requirements, such as providing incentives to fleets that meet United States Environmental Protection Agency SmartWay standards or requiring use of zero- emission or near zero-emission trucks. e) Use a “clean fleet” of delivery vehicles as they become commercially available, but no later than 2025. f) Use zero-emission yard equipment, such as forklifts, pallet trucks and jacks, and stackers. g) Implement practices to control and remove fugitive dust and other contaminants from paved areas. Chapter 5 140 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 This page intentionally left blank. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 141 6. R EALIZING THE 2024 CAA P 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Photo credit: Envision Contra Costa photo gallery Enacting the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan To ensure the success of the 2024 CAAP, Contra Costa County will integrate the goals and strategies of this plan into other local and regional plans and prioritize and implement the programs and activities identified herein. As the County updates other planning documents, such as the Municipal and Zoning Codes, or Specific Plans, staff will ensure that these documents support and are consistent with the 2024 CAAP. Implementing the 2024 CAAP will require County staff and leadership to enact these strategies and report progress. This plan CAAP identifies a work plan that includes responsible departments/divisions, time frames, and relative costs associated with each strategy. Staff will monitor progress using an implementation and monitoring tool on an annual basis and will provide an annual update to County decision-makers. The Contra Costa County Sustainability Group, part of the County’s Department of Conservation and Development, is responsible for leading overall implementation of the CAAP, and working with other County departments and community partners to implement specific CAAP strategies and actions. The following strategies and associated actions are designed to guide Contra Costa County in successfully implementing the 2024 CAAP. Chapter 6 142 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 LEADERSHIP STRATEGIES (L) CONTRA COSTA COUNTY IS A MODEL FOR HOW LOCAL GOVERNMENT CAN TAKE ACTION ON CLIMATE ISSUES. Advancing meaningful action on climate change requires sustained commitment and active involvement from Contra Costa County government officials, community members, local organizations, regional agencies, and more. The 2024 CAAP’s leadership strategies are designed to facilitate the long-range and creative planning that will ensure that Contra Costa County is on the forefront of climate change mitigation and adaptation. These efforts include ensuring that climate action is a priority across County departments and that County staff are equipped to address climate change as part of their work; supporting the development of climate action funding mechanisms; and incorporating analysis of climate change and equity in budgeting decisions. While GHG emissions from County operations are a very small percentage of emissions countywide, it is important for the County to demonstrate in its day-to-day business its commitment to climate action. New programs being introduced by BayREN should provide additional resources for County operations to reduce GHG emissions. L-1: Establish Contra Costa County as a leader among local governments for addressing climate issues. Strategy L-1 Actions: ▪ Continue to publicize and support the operations of the County’s Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force and Green Government Group (G3) Champions. ▪ Work with all County departments to encourage adoption of best practices from the County’s Green Business Program and other practices that support the County’s climate goals. ▪ Encourage development of new policies and initiatives that support the County’s climate goals. ▪ Explore the creation of funding mechanisms, including a carbon impact fee, to support the County’s Sustainability Fund for investments in County facilities if additional financial resources are needed. 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 143 ▪ Support legislative efforts to establish a green bank able to equitably finance sustainability projects, including renewable energy, energy efficiency, and green infrastructure, for residential and commercial customers. (COS-A14.910) ▪ Ensure that funding mechanisms to address climate change minimize or avoid disproportionate financial impacts to Impacted Communities and do not exacerbate economic inequities, to the extent feasible. ▪ Facilitate trainings for County staff on climate change (including the results of the Vulnerability Assessment and 2024 CAP2024 CAAP technical work) and how they can support climate action through their work with the County and at home. ▪ Encourage County employees to explore innovative technologies and programs that address climate change. ▪ Incorporate integrated pest management into new construction and retrofit programs on County properties. ▪ Ensure County departments follow the County’s Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Policy and policy requirements are included in the contracting process. ▪ Regularly review and revise the County’s purchasing and contracting programs as necessary to ensure consistency with the County’s sustainability and GHG reduction goals. (HS-A3.23) County Green Government Group Champions at a planting day with Friends of Alhambra Creek. Photo credit: Jody London. Chapter 6 144 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 L-2: Continue to recognize the climate crisis as an emergency for Contra Costa County and make addressing climate change a top County priority. Strategy L-2 Actions: ▪ Continue to implement the 2020 Climate Emergency Resolution approved by the Board of Supervisors, including conducting periodic reviews and updates to the Resolution. ▪ Consider climate vulnerabilities and associated equity effects as factors in the County’s planning and expenditures for infrastructure and services to increase resilience and reduce GHG emissions countywide. ▪ Consider developing standards for the disclosure of climate and equity effects and vulnerabilities in staff reports for all decisions by the Board of Supervisors when such disclosures are helpful and necessary. Explore modifying County processes and forms to include questions to ensure the proposed action is consistent with the 2024 CAP2024 CAAP and equity goals. ▪ Assess County programs, policies, operations, and projects (excluding stationary sources) for their contribution to achieving the County’s GHG emissions reduction goals and consistency with the 2024 CAP2024 CAAP. ▪ Disclose GHG emissions to a registry such as the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP). Climate change is a priority for Contra Costa County residents, who support continued County leadership on this topic. 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 145 IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES (IS) CONTRA COSTA COUNTY WILL ENSURE IT FOLLOWS THROUGH TO ACHIEVE THE GOALS AND ACTIONS IN THIS CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN. Successfully reducing GHG emissions, addressing climate change vulnerabilities, and building community resilience require active, organized, and ongoing collaboration between County government, local businesses and community-based organizations, regional governments, and the public. Implementation strategies in this 2024 CAAP are intended to ensure the continued provision of resources for the implementation, revision, and monitoring of the 2024 CAAP as well as the continued cultivation of government and community partnerships. IS-1: Monitor and report progress toward achieving Climate Action and Adaptation Plan goals on an annual basis. Strategy IS-1 Actions: ▪ Assign responsibility for facilitating and supporting 2024 CAAP implementation to the County’s Department of Conservation and Development. ▪ Identify key staff from each department responsible for supporting 2024 CAAP implementation and updates for annual reporting and monitoring. ▪ Continue to involve community-based organizations and other key stakeholders in reviewing and recommending 2024 CAAP action items. ▪ Continue to prepare an annual progress report on implementation of the recommended GHG emissions reduction strategies and progress toward the 2024 CAAP goals. When information is available, provide updates on estimated GHG emissions reductions and current GHG emissions levels. ▪ Monitor implementation of the Sustainability Fund for projects in County facilities. ▪ Use the 2024 CAAP implementation and monitoring tool to track GHG benefits from 2024 CAAP implementation and identify progress toward the 2024 CAAP reduction goals. ▪ Pursue refinements to the County permitting system and other systems as needed to support collection of 2024 CAAP implementation data. Chapter 6 146 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 ▪ Work with Contra Costa Health on exploring and, if appropriate, developing health indicators related to climate change to help inform progress on current actions and effectiveness of adaptation strategies. IS-2: Continue collaborative partnerships with agencies and community groups that support Climate Action and Adaptation Plan implementation, with an emphasis on residents and community- based organizations from Impacted Communities. Strategy IS-2 Actions: ▪ Participate in local and regional organizations that provide tools and support for energy efficiency, energy conservation, GHG emissions reductions, sustainable infrastructure development, adaptation, public information, and implementation of this 2024 CAAP. ▪ Enable effective partnerships to implement high-priority strategies from the 2024 CAAP by working through established interagency collaborations and joint exercise of powers authorities and forming new arrangements of various types where necessary to be effective. ▪ Provide input to partner agencies on policy barriers that need to be addressed at the State level. ▪ Continue collaboration with other local governments in Contra Costa County on climate action and related subjects, including an annual Sustainability Exchange meeting of all local government staff in Contra Costa County that focus on climate action and adaptation planning and implementation. The Sustainability Exchange is a regular gathering for local government staff in Contra Costa County who work on sustainability issues to network and learn from one another. The Sustainability Exchange launched in January 2017. Every meeting includes time for networking and learning about the work of others in Contra Costa County, as well as a topical presentation and opportunity to reflect in small groups. 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 147 Members of the Sustainability Exchange tour the Antioch Dunes National Wildlife Refuge. Photo credit: Contra Costa County staff IS-3: Secure necessary funding to implement the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan. Strategy IS-3 Actions: ▪ Identify funding sources and levels for reduction strategies as part of annual reporting. ▪ Include GHG emissions reduction strategies in the capital improvement programs for County-owned and managed facilities and infrastructure, and other plans as appropriate. ▪ Pursue local, regional, state, and federal grants to support implementation. Explore dedicated funding sources for 2024 CAAP implementation, including from the Sustainability Fund or other revenue sources as needed. ▪ Explore opportunities to allocate a portion of revenues from revenue-generating strategies in the 2024 CAAP to its implementation. Chapter 6 148 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 IS-4: Continue to update the baseline emissions inventory and Climate Action and Adaptation Plan every five years. Strategy IS-4 Actions: ▪ Prepare a GHG emissions inventory that shows GHG emissions after emergency conditions created by the COVID-19 pandemic are expected to have ended Update the community-wide GHG emissions inventory every five5 years at a minimum and more frequently as resources are available. Prepare an inventory for the 2024 calendar year within a year of adoption of the 2024 CAAP. ▪ Update the 2024 CAAP to incorporate new technologies, practices, and other options to further reduce emissions. (HS-A3.1) IS-5: Maintain and update the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan to allow for greater resilience. Strategy IS-5 Actions: ▪ Coordinate, where possible, updates of the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan, General Plan Safety Element, and Local Hazard Mitigation Plan cycles to ensure plan alignment and coordination of climate mitigation and adaptation efforts. ▪ Assess the implementation status and effectiveness of adaptation strategies. CAAP Updates Per HS-A3.1 in the County’s General Plan, future updates to the 2023 CAAP must include: a) Inventories of GHG emissions in the unincorporated county. b) GHG reduction goals for 2030 and 2045 at a minimum. c) Forecasts of GHG emissions for the unincorporated county consistent with the growth assumptions of the General Plan. d) GHG reduction measures and strategies with quantifiable outcomes. e) Climate adaptation and resilience strategies to ensure the county’s communities can respond to changing climate conditions. f) An implementation and monitoring program to track the County’s progress toward achievement of the GHG reduction targets. g) A community and stakeholder engagement program for CAP preparation and implementation. 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 149 Work Plan Table 12 contains information to support staff and community implementation of the strategies and to effectively integrate them into budgets, the capital improvement program, and other programs and projects. These implementation details are: CAAP Strategy and Implementation Actions: The strategy language and the specific actions needed for reductions and increased resilience. Potential Strategies of Effectiveness: Metrics that County staff and others could use to track the success of the strategy. Lead Department(s): The lead County department(s) tasked with implementing the strategy. Potential Partners: Example local organizations that the County will partner with to implement the given strategy. Additional community partners will be welcome. Although significant GHG emissions reduction policies and initiatives are already in place, the actions proposed in this plan, by necessity, far surpass the scale of existing efforts. Implementing the plan and ensuring that it results in real, additional GHG emissions reductions will require increased coordination across sectors and institutionalized climate protection efforts across communities. The number of actions recommended in this plan will take many years to implement, given limitations in both staff time and funding. Time Frame: The year by which a strategy should be effective by fiscal year’s end. The exact status of a strategy will vary based on its actions, and many strategies will be ongoing through and beyond 2030. An effective strategy will be one that is actively on track to achieve its GHG emissions reductions, support adaptation to climate change effects, or achieve long-term resilience. For a strategy to be effective, the necessary programs and efforts should be active, and any infrastructure or other capital improvements should be in place. The effective year is not the end year—many of the strategies are intended to remain in effect for the foreseeable future, so they do not have end dates. Time frames for effectively setting up the strategies are: • Near Term (by 2026) • Mid-term (by 2028) • Long Term (by 2030) Chapter 6 150 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Applicability: The people, development, land uses, activities, and other aspects of communities that the strategy applies to. Though near term priorities are identified, please note that priorities can and do shift based on funding availability, advances in technology, new and better ideas, etc. The 2024 CAAP and this implementation section should be considered a living document. 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 151 TABLE 12. 2024 CAAP IMPLEMENTATION MATRIX CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME Clean and Efficient Built Environment: Homes, workplaces, and businesses in unincorporated Contra Costa County run efficiently on clean energy. BE-1: Require and incentivize new buildings and additions built in unincorporated Contra Costa County to be low-carbon or carbon neutral. − Consider Continue adopting new or modified reach codes and consider future updates that exceed the California Building Standards Code, as the State updates the Building Code every three years, to require the use of lower-carbon intensive energy sources, to achieve higher feasible levels of energy conservation and efficiencyperformance, and to achieve lower feasible levels of GHG emissions. (COS-A14.4) − Maintain, update, and pPublicize, and enforce the County Oordinances and programs Code Title 7 – Building Regulations amendment requiring new residential buildings, hotels, offices, and retail to be more energy efficient, with low levels of greenhouse gas emissions.all-electric. Evaluate the feasibility of including other building types as appropriate. (COS-A14.5) − Partner with community groups and MCE to establish an induction cooktop loaner program for county residents. − Design and construct new County facilities to be zero- net energy to the extent feasible. (COS-P14.8) − Study the feasibility of establishing a low-carbon concrete requirement for all new construction and retrofit activities and consider additional strategies to reduce embedded carbon in construction materials. The intent is to determine what the County can and should do to support or exceed State requirements for net-zero emissions for cement use by 2045. (HS-A3.2) Key Performance Metric(s): − Implement the reach code. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Participation in energy efficiency and weatherization programs by new residential and commercial buildings (including County facilities), with attention to participation in Impacted Communities. (Conservation and Development – community; Public Works – County facilities) − Energy efficient lighting and other appliances and mechanical systems in new County buildings. (Public Works) − Completed report exploring requirements for low- carbon concrete in new construction. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − BayREN − Local contractors, developers, architects, and Contra Costa County Building Trades Council − MCE − PG&E − Building Industry Association − BAAQMD Applicability − County operations − New development − Residents in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Near term (by 2026) Chapter 6 152 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − Provide educational materials to encourage project applicants to incorporate passive solar design features into new developments and significant reconstructionsalterations and additions. − Promote additional sustainable building strategies and designs, including small and “tiny” homes, to project applicants as site appropriate. Consider requiring additional sustainable features as a condition of approval, including reuse of materials to minimize embedded carbon. − Provide educational and technical resources to advance the adoption of heat pump water heater and heat pump space heating in buildings in support of BAAQMD Regulation 9, Rule 4, and Regulation 9, Rule 6, which will mandate that replacement and new water heaters (2027 and 2031) and space heaters (2029) are zero NOx. (COS-P14.10) BE-2: Retrofit existing buildings and facilities in the unincorporated county, and County infrastructure, to reduce energy use and convert to low-carbon or carbon-neutral free fuels. − Create a County policy or program to facilitate making existing residential and nonresidential buildings more energy-efficient and powered by carbon-free energy. (COS-A14.6) − Create a detailed County roadmap to convert existing homes and businesses to use low-carbon or zero-carbon-free appliances. The roadmap should include steps to support converting buildings to rely on low-carbon or zero-carbon-free energy using an equitable framework that minimizes the risk of displacement or significant disruptions to existing tenants. (COS-A14.7) − Require replacement and new water heaters and space heating and cooling systems to be electric or have no nitrogen oxide emissions if the building electric panel has sufficient capacity in Key Performance Metric(s): − Participation in energy efficiency and weatherization programs, including retrofits and site rehabilitation, by existing residential and commercial buildings (including County facilities), with attention to participation in Impacted Communities. (Conservation and Development) − Roadmap to convert existing buildings to all-electric (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Energy efficient lighting and other appliances and mechanical systems. (Conservation and Development) − Expanded or created retrofit programs to complement weatherization programs that serve low-income county residents. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − BayREN − Local contractors, architects, and Contra Costa County Buildings Trades Council − MCE − Neighborhood Preservation Program − Contra Costa County Asthma Initiative Applicability − County operations − Existing development − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 153 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME accordance with BAAQMD Regulation 9, Rule 4, and Regulation 9, Rule 6. (COS-P14.10) − Provide educational and technical resources to advance the adoption of heat pump water heater and heat pump space heating in new buildings. − Evaluate options for incentivizing and requiring additions and alterations to be energy efficient and to achieve the lowest feasible levels of GHG emissions, including upgrades to the building electric panel, as needed. (COS-P14.8) − Ensure County-led and supported retrofit programs incentivize and prioritize conversion of buildings built before 1980 and emphasize assistance to owners of properties that are home to very low-, low-, and moderate- income residents and/or located in Impacted Communities, as permitted by available funding. (COS-A14.9) − Explore opportunities, in collaboration with partner agencies, to create new incentives or publicize existing ones to support updating existing buildings to achieve the lowest feasible levels of GHG emissions. − Work to continue to obtain funding with partners such as BayREN and MCE to implement a program or programs to provide reduced- cost or free energy-efficiency and zero-carbon retrofits to local small businesses and households earning less than the area median income, in support of the Contra Costa County Asthma Initiative, Contra Costa County Weatherization Program, similar County programs, other nonprofit partners, and other health equity efforts for Impacted Communities. Support the use of low- emitting materials, including paints and carpeting, in retrofits to improve indoor air quality. − In partnership with MCE and BayREN, continue to support voluntary home and business energy efficiency retrofits, including all-electric measures. Time Frame Near term (by 2026) Chapter 6 154 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − Partner with community groups and MCE to establish an induction cooktop loaner education program for county residents. (Initiated in 2024.) − Facilitate participation by homes and businesses in demand response programs. − Continue to conduct energy and water tracking activities, audits, and upgrades of County facilities, including conversion of feasible County facilities to all-electric space and water heating. − Advocate for modifications to the federal Weatherization Assistance Program that expand eligible measures to include whole building clean energy improvements, such as wall insulation, duct sealing, electric panel upgrades, electric heat pumps, and related measures. Advocate for an increase in the income eligibility limits for the Weatherization Assistance Program. − Implement requirements for cool roofs and light-colored, nonreflective permeable paving materials as part of retrofit, repair, and replacement activities, using recycled materials or other materials with low embedded carbon as feasible and as established by the Building Standards Code. BE-3: Increase the amount of electricity used and generated from renewable sources in the county. − Require new commercial parking lots with 50 or more spaces to mitigate heat gain through installation of shade trees, solar arrays, or other emerging cooling technologies. Prioritize the use of solar arrays where feasible and appropriate. (HS-P8.3) − Encourage property owners to pursue financial incentives for solar installations and energy storage technologies, such as battery storage systems, on new and existing buildings. Key Performance Metric(s): − Number and percent of County and community accounts enrolled in MCE Deep Green (Conservation and Development) − Total megawatts of installed renewable energy capacity, by type, in the unincorporated county. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): Potential Partners − BayREN − Fire protection districts in Contra Costa County − Local contractors, architects, and Contra Costa County Building Trades Council − MCE − PG&E − BAAQMD 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 155 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − Work with MCE to increase enrollment, especially in the Deep Green tier. − Continue to enroll all eligible, non-solar-equipped County facility electricity accounts in MCE territory in the Deep Green tier. − Work with the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District and other organizations that provide fire protection services to provide education and promote incentives for battery storage systems that can increase the resilience of homes and businesses to power outages. − Encourage installation of battery storage systems in new and existing buildings, especially buildings with solar energy systems and buildings that provide essential community services. (COS- P14.7) − Provide information about battery storage systems with all applications for new home construction and solar panel installations. − Pursue implementation of recommendations of the 2018 Renewable Resource Potential Study. − Evaluate the least-conflict feasible locations for stand-alone battery storage systems and modify land use regulations to enable such use in these locations. − Explore the technical and economic feasibility of developing and operating microgrids in Contra Costa County, and for County facilities. − Explore opportunities to install community solar projects with battery backup to provide clean energy to Impacted Communities. − Megawatts of rooftop and parking lot solar installed in unincorporated county, including County facilities and Impacted Communities. (Conservation and Development – community; Public Works – County facilities) − Megawatt-hours of installed battery storage capacity at public and private buildings. (Conservation and Development – community; Public Works – County facilities) − Percent of electricity supplied by PG&E and MCE from renewable sources. (Conservation and Development) − Number of new and existing buildings with energy storage systems, including County facilities. (Conservation and Development – community; Public Works – County facilities) − Progress in meeting recommendations from the 2018 Renewable Resource Potential Study. (Conservation and Development) Applicability − County operations − Existing development − New development − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Mid-term (by 2028) Chapter 6 156 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME No Waste Contra Costa: Contra Costa County disposes no more solid waste than 2.2 pounds per person per day. NW-1: Increase composting of organic waste. − Ensure, through franchise agreements and other relationships with waste haulers, a source-separated organics collection service for all residential and commercial customers in County-controlled collection franchise areas. − Require that new and expanded landfill operations significantly reduce GHG emissions to meet or exceed State targets to the extent feasible, and work toward carbon-neutral landfills. (PFS- 7.12) − Work with wastewater providers to explore the use of organic waste as feedstock for anaerobic digesters to produce biogas that can generate electricity or fuel. − Require local restaurants, grocery stores, and other edible food generators that handle large quantities of food to partner with food rescue organizations to divert edible food that would be otherwise disposed in landfills for distribution to those in need, in accordance with SB 1383. − Collaborate with edible food recovery programs and the Community Wellness & Prevention Program to decrease food waste and address hunger. − Procure compost or other products made from recovered organic waste in accordance with the County’s Recovered Organic Waste Product and Recycled Paper Procurement Policy. Key Performance Metric(s): − Percentage of County-controlled franchise areas with source separated organics collection for residential customers. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Number of commercial edible food generators in County-controlled franchise areas participating in edible food recovery program. (Conservation and Development) − Number of projects complying with the Model Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance (MWELO) required to use compost. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Applicability − Environmental justice organizations − Food rescue organizations − Major generators of organic waste (schools, restaurants, event spaces, grocery stores, etc.) − Waste haulers − Wastewater service providers − Contra Costa Health, CWPP − County Jail meal service − Schools − Hospitals Time Frame Mid-term (by 2028) NW-2: Reduce waste from County operations. − Establish a Continue source-separated organics collection service at all County-owned facilities that includes recovering food waste (scraps) and food-soiled paper. Key Performance Metric(s): − Recycling, composting at County facilities. (Public Works) Potential Partners − County operations Applicability − Waste haulers 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 157 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − Implement three-stream recycling (trash, recycling, and organic waste) at all County-owned facilities. − Establish requirements for source-separated organics collection and three-stream recycling as conditions in lease agreements for County offices. − Conduct waste audits of County facilities, including assessing the volume and composition of all waste streams, to identify challenges with waste activities and develop educational or operational changes to address issues and reduce waste generation. − Obtain material for capital projects from local and low-carbon sources to the greatest extent feasible, including allocating additional funds to allow for such materials, and integrate appropriate standards into the County’s Environmentally Preferable Purchasing (EPP) policy. − Continue to reduce paper use in County operations. Procure recycled paper and janitorial supplies in accordance with the Recovered Organic Waste Product and Recycled Paper Procurement Policy. − Continue engagement with TRUE zero-waste certification for County projects. − Enact Bay-friendly landscaping practices at County facilities. Develop County policies and practices for Bay-friendly landscaping. − Explore opportunities to reuse wood from County tree maintenance activities as an alternative to chipping. − Encourage medical facilities and medical waste recycling companies to upgrade facilities to increase the amount of medical waste recycled or reprocessed. − Explore the feasibility of transitioning to reusable products in the health sector, where appropriate, and procuring products certified as green or low carbon. − Volume of waste disposed at County facilities. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Recycled content of County purchases consistent with applicable requirements of SB 1383. (Public Works) − Enforcement of requirements for County vendors and contractors to adopt and implement the Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Policy. (Public Works) − Number of County facilities with Bay-friendly landscaping practices. (Public Works) − Tonnage of recycled and composted materials, by type, collected at County facilities. (Public Works) − Number of County facilities with three-stream recycling. (Public Works) Time Frame Mid-term (by 2028) Chapter 6 158 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME NW-3: Increase community-wide recycling and waste minimization programs. − Create a source-reduction program in partnership with regional agencies to promote rethinking, refusing, reducing, reusing, and regenerating of materials. − Improve educational efforts to promote better waste sorting among community members. − Work with waste haulers to expand the types of materials accepted by recycling programs as economic conditions allow. − Work with waste haulers to continue availability of curbside pickup recycling services. − Evaluate the feasibility of banning single-use plastics or establishing additional restrictions beyond those created by SB 54. − Encourage the use of reusable items over disposable materials. − Promote the Contra Costa County Recycling Market Development Zone low-interest loan program to create incentivesize for the development of businesses that use recycled materials. Key Performance Metric(s): − Actual disposed pounds per person per day (PPD) numbers year over year. (Conservation and Development) − Number of households and businesses subscribing to recycling and organics service. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Number of businesses participating in Recycling Market Development Zone program (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − New development − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Applicability − Major waste generators − Waste haulers − Recycling centers Time Frame Mid-term (by 2028) NW-4: Reduce emissions from landfill gas. − Encourage efforts at Acme, Keller Canyon, and West Contra Costa landfills to install or enhance existing methane capture technology and associated monitoring systems with a goal of increasing the methane capture rate to the greatest extent feasible. − Explore opportunities for partnering with agricultural and industrial operations to generate energy from methane gas generated by their ongoing activities. − Support landfill operators in efforts to transition away from landfill gas flaring. (COS-P14.5) Key Performance Metric(s): − Methane capture rate Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Tons of flared landfill gas Potential Partners − Landfill operators Applicability − Landfill operators Time Frame Mid-term (by 2028) 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 159 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME Reduce Water Use and Increase Drought Resilience: Contra Costa County uses less water and communities are prepared for drought. DR-1: Reduce indoor and outdoor water use. − Require new development to reduce potable water consumption through use of water-efficient devices and technology, drought- tolerant landscaping strategies, and treated recycled water, where available. (COS-P7.61) − Require homes and businesses to install water-efficient fixtures at time of retrofit activities, in accordance with the California Building Standards Code. − Continue to enforce the Model Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance and encourage the use of native and drought-tolerant landscaping for exempt residential and commercial landscapes through partnership with local and regional water agencies and other organizations. − Partner with water and wastewater service providers, Groundwater Sustainability Agencies, irrigation districts, and private well owners to increase participation in water conservation programs countywide. (COS-P7.12) − Facilitate offering of BayREN water bill savings programs through eligible community water providers. − Encourage the installation of graywater and rainwater catchment systems, particularly for new construction, as feasible for wastewater infrastructure. Reduce regulatory barriers for these systems and explore creating incentives for installing these systems in new and existing buildings. − Identify Evaluate opportunities for graywater use in public spaces and implement them as feasible. − Promote the installation of composting toilets at appropriate County facilities in locations without wastewater service. Key Performance Metric(s): − Water use, specifically reduction in overall water use in the unincorporated county as reported by water companies. (Conservation and Development) − Water use, specifically reduction in water use at County facilities. (Public Works) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Square footage of native and drought-tolerant landscaping projects at County facilities. (Public Works) − Number of participants in Contra Costa Water District Lawn to Garden program. (Conservation and Development) − Number of participants in East Bay Municipal Utility District Lawn Conversion program. (Conservation and Development) − Number of water districts participating in BayREN water savings program. (Conservation and Development) − Number of customers participating in water conservation programs sponsored by water companies. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − Water providers − Green Business Program Applicability − Central Contra Costa Sanitary District − Contra Costa Water District − East Bay Municipal Utility District − West County Wastewater District − Other water and wastewater service providers − Contra Costa Health − UC Master Gardeners − Nurseries − Property managers Time Frame Near term (by 2026) Chapter 6 160 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME DR-2: Ensure sustainable and diverse water supplies. − Encourage Contra Costa Health to work with Groundwater Sustainability Agencies to ensure that new well permit applications are in accordance with County ordinances and State construction standards and require a hydrogeological evaluation in areas with known water shortages to ensure that the sustainable yield goals can be met. − Require new development to demonstrate the availability of a safe, sanitary, and environmentally sound water delivery and wastewater treatment systems with adequate capacity. (PFS-P4.5, PFS-P4.6) − Discourage new development that may reasonably lead to groundwater overdraft, subsidence, or other negative impacts, or which may reasonably depend on the import of unsustainable quantities of water from outside the county. − Require the use of permeable surfaces for new or reconstructed hardscaped areas where feasible. − In coordination with Groundwater Sustainability Agencies, expand opportunities for groundwater recharge. − Work with water suppliers to expand recycled water systems as feasible, including considering additional treatment to allow for additional recycled water uses. Key Performance Metric(s): − Amount of recycled water used. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Groundwater sustainability indicators: chronic lowering of groundwater levels; reduction in storage; seawater intrusion; degraded quality; land subsidence; surface water depletion. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − Existing development − New development − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Applicability − Contra Costa Health − Central Contra Costa Sanitary District − Contra Costa Water District − East Bay Municipal Utility District − Groundwater Sustainability Agencies (GSAs): − City of Antioch GSA − City of Brentwood GSA − Byron-Bethany Irrigation District GSA − Contra Costa County GSA − Diablo Water District GSA − Discovery Bay GSA − East Contra Costa Irrigation District GSA − EBMUD GSA − Zone 7 GSA − West County Wastewater District − Other water and wastewater service providers 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 161 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME Time Frame Mid-term (by 2028) Clean Transportation Network: Contra Costa County’s transportation network provides safe and accessible options for walking, biking, and transit. If residents and workers are driving, they are in zero-emission vehicles. TR-1: Improve the viability of walking, biking, zero- emission commuting, and using public transit for travel within, to, and from the county. − Prioritize expansion of bicycle, micromobility, and pedestrian infrastructure (e.g., Class IV separated bikeways) to address the significant latent demand for these active transportation modes. (TR-P1.2) − Develop and promote mobility alternatives to single-occupancy vehicles, including but not limited to public transit, micromobility, carbon-free rideshare strategies, and nonmotorized modes. (TR- A1.1) − Implement programs to encourage transit use, bicycling, walking, telecommuting, and use of alternative vehicle fuels by County employees. (TR-A1.4) − Reduce single-occupant vehicle usage and VMT, by significantly enhancing the availability and safety of other travel modes through infrastructure investment, policy support (Vision Zero, and other best practices), and support for public transit. (TR-P1.4) − Plan, design, construct, and maintain facilities for walking, bicycling, and rolling to serve people of all ages, abilities, and income levels, including children, seniors, families, and people with limited mobility. (TR-P5.1) − Partner with CCTA and neighboring jurisdictions to build out the countywide bicycle and pedestrian network, prioritizing completion of the Low-Stress Countywide Bicycle Network and pedestrian safety improvement projects in the County's Pedestrian Priority Key Performance Metric(s): − Percentage complete and under construction of unincorporated bicycle network. (Public Works) − Linear feet of pedestrian facilities constructed. (Public Works) − Number of bicycle and pedestrian network gaps closed. (Public Works) − Measure progress on the County Road Improvement and Preservation Program (CRIPP); Complete Streets; Vision Zero; Active Transportation; and equity- focused plans, programs, and policies. (Public Works) − Number of new units (residential and commercial) located in transit priority areas. (Conservation and Development) − Number of new units of affordable housing, particularly in areas with high-quality transit. (Conservation and Development) − Transit ridership in County service areas. (Conservation and Development) − Number of employers operating transportation demand programs. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): For County Operations: − Number of employees participating in the County remote work policy. (Human Resources) − Number and percentage of County employees using the pre-tax commute benefit. (Human Resources) Potential Partners − 511 Contra Costa − BAAQMD − CCTA − Environmental justice groups − MTC/ABAG − Transit providers − Local communities − California State Association of Counties − Advocacy organizations − East Bay Leadership Council − Safe Routes to School programs Applicability − County operations − Existing development − New development − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Long term (by 2030) Chapter 6 162 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME Areas, as described in the Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan. (TR-A5.1) − Construct innovative bicycle and pedestrian facilities, including Class IV separated and protected bikeways, bicycle superhighways, and other low-stress facility types, as described in the Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan and in contemporary, best-practice transportation planning and engineering guidance. Use contextually appropriate green infrastructure and landscaping to separate vehicular lanes from bicycle and pedestrian facilities whenever feasible. (TR-A5.2) − Require transportation infrastructure serving new development to be designed using best practices, contemplating existing and planned land uses, roadways, bicycle and pedestrian facilities, transit facilities, and connections to adjoining areas. (TR-P4.2) − Create connections between unincorporated communities and neighborhoods in unincorporated areas and adjacent jurisdictions to improve multimodal access to local destinations, such as schools, parks, shopping, health services, and workplaces. (TR-P4.3) − Track over time projects that add pedestrian and bicycle facilities to document the County’s implementation of the County Road Improvement and Preservation Program (CRIPP); Complete Streets checklist; Vision Zero Report and Action Plan; Active Transportation Plan; and equity-focused plans, programs, and policies. − Improve the safety and comfort of bicycle, pedestrian, and public transit facilities using best practices to encourage more people to use such facilities. − Work with CCTA to fill gaps in the countywide Low-Stress Bike Network, as outlined in the 2018 Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan. Prioritize providing access for Impacted Communities and constructing protected bicycle facilities. Coordinate with Caltrans, CCTA, the Regional Transportation Planning Committees, and neighboring jurisdictions to plan, design, − Administrative Bulletin supporting videoconference and conference calls, where appropriate. (County Administrator) − Updated CRIPP Project list. (Public Works) − Grant awards for transportation projects that support 2024 CAP2024 CAAP goals (number and amount). (Public Works, Conservation and Development) 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 163 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME and implement Complete Street concepts on Routes of Regional Significance. − In collaboration with key partners, support efforts to establish or join a shared mobility program that provides access to conventional bicycle, e-bikes, and other micromobility modes, prioritizing access for low-income residents who do not have bicycles. Support efforts to establish and/or maintain bike repair programs. − Support efforts to expand the service area and frequency of regional transit agencies, and reduced fares for students, seniors, and low-income residents on systems, including AC Transit, BART, Capitol Corridor, County Connection, Tri Delta Transit, the San Francisco Bay Ferry, and WestCAT. Encourage programs that support "last mile" transportation connection and options. − Maximize development of jobs and affordable housing near high- quality transit service to support a jobs-housing balance. − Market the county’s Northern Waterfront to attract innovative companies with jobs for residents. − Maintain in place and enforce a Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Ordinance that reflects best practices, and, at a minimum, conforms to Contra Costa Transportation Authority’s adopted model TDM ordinance or resolution. (GM-P3.5) − Improve county-wide safety for bicyclists by advocating for the passage of Vulnerable Road User Laws. − Secure additional funding for the maintenance and expansion of bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure improvements. Support efforts to obtain additional funding to maintain and expand public transit operations and infrastructure improvements. − Support CCTA to develop and implement methods for tracking EV and e-bike charging and availability across jurisdictions. − Support CCTA and regional transit agencies in providing “last mile” transportation connections and options. Chapter 6 164 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − Encourage and support increased regional integration of transit systems to promote more equitable fare structures, fare integration, easier transfers, including coordinated transfers between different transit systems and reduced wait times, improved information sharing, and generally a more seamless and modern system. − Ensure emerging transportation technologies and travel options, such as autonomous and ZEVs and transportation network companies, support the County's goals for reducing emissions, adapting to climate change, improving public safety, and increasing equitable mobility. (TR-P1.3) TR-2: Increase the use of zero-emissions vehicles. Transition to a zero-emission County fleet by 2035 and a community fleet that is at least 50 percent zero-emission by 2030. − Require new County vehicles to be zero emission to the extent a viable vehicle is available on the market, that charging or zero- emission fueling equipment is conveniently located where the vehicle will be stored, and as required by the Advanced Clean Fleet regulations, with the goal that all County vehicles will be zero- emission by 2035. − Continue adopting new or modified reach codes and consider future updates that exceed the California Building Code as the State updates the Building Code, including the Green Building Code, to require zero-emission charging infrastructure in new multifamily and nonresidential buildings. Explore expanding it to include new single-family homes (Supported by TR-P1.12 and TR- A1.12). − Install electric vehicle charging equipment and other infrastructure needed to support the transition to a zero-emission County fleet at Potential Partners − BAAQMD − Contra Costa Transportation Authority − Environmental justice groups − MCE − Multifamily and rental property owners − TNC and taxi providers − BART − Caltrans − East Bay Leadership Council Applicability − County operations − Existing development − New development − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 165 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME County facilities. Consider the appropriate locations, number, and capacity of infrastructure to facilitate the transition of the County fleet to zero-emission vehicles. − Provide incentives for zero-emission vehicles in partnership with MCE, BAAQMD, and other agencies. − Work with property owners and other potential partners to pursue installation of zero-emission vehicle charging stations in and near multifamily dwelling units. − Update off-street parking ordinance to include a requirement for zero-emission vehicle charging infrastructure. Consider including incentives for developers to exceed minimum requirements (i.e., density bonus). − Increase installation of electric vehicle charging stations for all vehicle types, including bicycles and scooters, at public facilities, emphasizing increased installation in Impacted Communities. − In partnership with regional agencies, explore providing subsidies for households making less than the area median income to purchase or lease zero-emission vehicles and associated infrastructure. − Pursue fees and regulatory efforts to convert transportation network company (TNC), taxi, and similar car-hire services to zero- emission vehicles. − Explore opportunities for implementing electric vehicle sharing programs. − Work with BAAQMD and other regional agencies to convert off- road equipment to zero-emission clean fuels. − Work with contractors, fleet operations, logistics companies, and other operators of heavy-duty vehicles to accelerate the transition to zero-emission heavy-duty vehicles. − In cases where battery electric, hybrid, electric, and sustainable sourced hydrogen fuel cells are not available, Wwork with Public Works to pursue the use of renewable natural gas (sourced from recovered organic waste) for transportation fuel, electricity, or Key Performance Metric(s): − Number of zero-emission vehicles registered in unincorporated county. (Conservation and Development) − Percentage of County fleet that is zero-emission. (Public Works) − Implementation of an EV sharing program (Conservation and Development) − Number of electric vehicle charging ports installed at County facilities for County fleet and public use. (Public Works) − Number of EV ready parking spaces and EV charging stations installed with new development. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Number of zero-emission vehicles purchased annually for County fleet. (Public Works) − Number of EV chargers installed at County facilities, both for County fleet and public use. (Public Works) − Number of publicly accessible EV chargers installed throughout the unincorporated county. (Conservation and Development) Time Frame Ongoing Chapter 6 166 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME heating applications in cases where battery-electric, hybrid-electric, and sustainably sourced hydrogen fuel-cell sources are not available. − Encourage efforts to maximize EV charging during solar peak hours. − Continue to host events such as the Electric Vehicle and E-Bike Show to educate and empower County staff and community members about zero-emission vehicles. − Coordinate with CCTA and other local and regional agencies to Ssupport implementation of the Contra Costa County Electric Vehicle Readiness Blueprint and related policies and apply best practices in ZEV charging/fueling infrastructure requirements. (TR- A1.11). Resilient Communities and Natural Infrastructure: Contra Costa County will increase resilience to climate hazards and foster community health. NI-1: Protect against and adapt to changes in sea levels and other shoreline flooding conditions. − Require new development to locate habitable areas of buildings above the highest water level expected accounting for sea level rise and other changes in flood conditions, or construct natural and nature-based features, or a levee, if necessary, adequately designed to protect the project for its expected life. (HS-P6.1) − Support the use of natural infrastructure, including ecosystem restoration and green infrastructure, to protect against sea level rise and associated shoreline flooding. − Coordinate with State and regional agencies, neighboring jurisdictions, property owners, utilities, and others to prepare a sea level rise adaptation plan. − Seek funding and pursue implementation of wetland restoration and other adaptation efforts for sea level rise. Key Performance Metric(s): − Establish a shoreline flooding working group. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Develop effective tracking metrics. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − Existing development − New development Applicability − San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission − Delta Stewardship Council − Shoreline communities − Irrigation districts − Community-based organizations − Land Trusts Time Frame Long term (by 2030) 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 167 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − Convene a working group that includes local jurisdictions, local shoreline communities, community-based organizations, property owners, businesses, and other stakeholders to collaborate on shoreline flooding adaptation strategies. − Identify opportunities for employing natural areas as buffers against rising sea levels. NI-2: Protect against and adapt to increases in the frequency and intensity of wildfire events. − Deny applications for subdivisions creating additional residential lots in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones. Discourage such subdivisions in High Fire Hazard Severity Zones unless adequate fire protection services are providedProhibit new residential subdivisions in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones and discourage residential subdivisions in High Fire Hazard Severity Zones. (HS-P7.1) − Require any construction of buildings or infrastructure within a High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone in the Local or State Responsibility Areas, or in areas that may be designated as the Wildland-Urban Interface, to incorporate fire-safe design features that meet the applicable State Fire Safe Regulations and Hazard Reduction Around Buildings and Structures Regulations for road ingress and egress, fire equipment access, and adequate water supply. (HS-P7.2) − Require subdivisions in the High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the Local or State Responsibility Areas, or projects requiring a land use permit in the High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the Local or State Responsibility Areas, to complete a site-specific fire protection plan. Collaborate Work with the appropriate fire protection district to review and revise the fire protection plans. (HS-P7.34) Key Performance Measure(s): − Amount of funds distributed for wildfire mitigation efforts. (Contra Costa Fire Protection District and other fire protection entities) − Miles of power lines undergrounded. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. − County operations − Existing development − New development − Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services Applicability − Community-based organizations − Contra Costa County Fire Protection District − Facility operators (school districts, libraries, community centers, etc.) − Kensington Fire Protection District − Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District − Moraga-Orinda Fire District − San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District − Medical service providers Chapter 6 168 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − Work with property owners in mapped High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones or in areas that may be designated as the Wildland-Urban Interface, to establish and maintain fire breaks and defensible space, vegetation clearance, and firefighting infrastructure that meets adopted State, County, or community fire safety standards. (HS-P7.45) − Support undergrounding of utility lines, Coordinate with energy service providers to underground power lines, especially in the WUI and High and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones. (HS-P7.108) − Review indoor air filtration standards and consider whether filtration requirements can and should be strengthened for projects permitted by the County. − Work with community organizations to help Impacted Communities have access to financing and other resources to reduce the fire risk on their property, prepare for wildfire events, and allow for a safe and speedy recovery. − 211 − Red Cross Time Frame Long term (by 2030) NI-3: Establish and maintain community resilience hubs. − Pursue funding to develop a resilience hub master plan that identifies existing community facilities that can serve as resilience hubs and support affected populations during hazard events. This process should start with an assessment of community needs. Such facilities should be distributed equitably throughout the county, with an emphasis on easy access for Impacted Communities. Where appropriate facilities do not exist, develop plans to create new resilience hubs. (Supported by HS-P8.1) − Pursue funding to implement the resilience hub master plan, including retrofitting selected facilities to function as resilience hubs. These retrofits should involve adding solar panels, battery backup systems, water resources, air filtration, supplies to meet Key Performance Measure(s): − Adopted plan for community resilience hubs. (Conservation and Development) − Number of community resilience hubs. (Conservation and Development) − Number of permits issued for battery storage projects. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − Community-based organizations − Contra Costa County Fire Protection District − Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services − Employment and Human Services − Environmental justice organizations − Facility operators (school districts, libraries, community centers, childcare facilities, etc.) 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 169 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME basic community and emergency medical needs, and other needs as identified by the resilience hub master plan. − Create a virtual resilience hub that connects County resources to communities through virtual community networks to provide detailed, up-to-date information about preparing for natural disasters, public safety notifications and alerts, space for virtual gathering and information-sharing, and other appropriate uses. Materials shall be accessible in multiple languages. − Coordinate resilience hub activities with planning efforts around public safety power shutoffs and wildfire smoke resiliency. − Jurisdictional fire departments − Homeless service providers − Medical service providers − 211 − Contra Costa County Office of Education − Local school districts − Red Cross Applicability − County operations − Residents in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Mid-term (by 2028) NI-4: Sequester carbon on natural and working lands in Contra Costa County. − Pursue implementation of recommendations from carbon sequestration feasibility study, Healthy Lands, Healthy People. − Continue to support and work with key partners to maintain existing and establish new pilot programs for carbon sequestration on agricultural land. − Promote restorativeregenerative agricultural and landscaping techniques that incorporate cover crops, mulching, compost application, field borders, alley cropping, conservation crop rotation, prescribed grazing, and reduced tillage to promote healthy soil and soil conservation. (Supported by COS-P2.11) − Support soil conservation and restoration programs. Encourage agricultural landowners to work with agencies such as the USDA’s Key Performance Metric(s): − Completed feasibility study for carbon sequestration in Contra Costa County. (Conservation and Development) Completed 2023 Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Number of completed pilot carbon farming project(s). − Progress report on implementation of County’s Green Infrastructure Plan for County facilities. (Public Works) − Quantity of SB 1383-compliant compost procured and utilized by the County directly or on the County’s behalf. (Public Works, Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − Contra Costa County Integrated Pest Management Advisory Committee − Agricultural groups − Community gardening groups − Community-based organizations − Contra Costa Resource Conservation District − East Bay Regional Park District − Save Mount Diablo, John Muir Land Trust, and other Chapter 6 170 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME NRCS and Contra Costa RCD to reduce erosion and soil loss. (COS- P2.10) − Coordinate with farming groups, ranchers, the Contra Costa Resource Conservation District, and the University of California Cooperative Extension to identify and promote varieties of feedstock, livestock, and crops that are resilient to rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns and that increase carbon sequestration. − Explore ways to increase carbon sequestration on County-owned facilitiesproperties. − Partner with regional landowners and agencies to establish carbon sequestration programs and incentives. − Consider the development of carbon offset protocols and guidance for future use byto provide technical support to carbon sequestration program applicants and County permitting staff to promote appropriate natural sequestration on natural and developed lands. − Ensure that any local or regional carbon sequestration program that the County establishes, promotes, supports, or joins must provide benefits to unincorporated communities that face environmental justice issues. − Explore the potential for the public to support tree planting and maintenance of existing trees. (Supported by COS-P6.2) − Establish a mechanism to support expanded tree planting and maintenance activities, particularly in areas with few trees. − Support protection, restoration, and enhancement of creeks, wetlands, marshes, sloughs, and tidelands, and emphasize the role of these features in climate change resilience, air and water quality, and wildlife habitat. (COS-P5.1) − Inventory wetlands, floodplains, marshlands, natural watercourses, riparian corridors, and adjacent lands that could potentially support climate adaptation (e.g., through flood management, − Progress in meeting recommendations from the 2023 Healthy Lands, Healthy People carbon sequestration feasibility study. (Conservation and Development) land conservation organizations. − Environmental justice organizations − Organizations that support regenerative landscaping and agriculture. − Regional landowners − UC Cooperative Extension − Contra Costa Health Applicability − County operations − East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy − Natural and working lands − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Long term (by 2030) 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 171 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME filtration, or other beneficial ecosystem services) and mitigation (e.g., carbon sequestration). (COS-A5.1) − Encourage and support conservation of natural lands outside the urban limit line in the unincorporated county. − Explore the new funding and financing opportunities for climate adaptation and resilience projects, including the creation of a Climate Resilience District, issuance of green bonds as a potential financing mechanism, and similar opportunities. − Require that any mitigation of air quality impacts occur on-site to the extent feasible to provide the greatest benefit to local residents in unincorporated communities. For mitigation that relies on offsets, require that the offsets be obtained from sources as near to the project site as possible or from sources that would improve air quality in an Impacted Community. If the project site is within or adjacent to an Impacted Community, require offsets or mitigation within that community unless determined infeasible by the County (HS-P1.6). NI-5: Minimize heat island effects through the use of cool roofs, and green infrastructure, tree canopy, cool paint and pavement, and other emerging strategies. − Require landscaping for new development to be drought-tolerant, filter and retain runoff and support flood management and groundwater recharge. (COS-P7.7) − Promote installation of drought-tolerant green infrastructure, including street trees, in landscaped public areas. (COS-P7.8) − Increase tree planting in urbanized areas, and open spaces where ecologically appropriate, emphasizing areas with limited existing tree cover, using low-maintenance native tree species that are low Key Performance Metric(s): − Number of permits for cool roofs, both private and County facilities. (Conservation and Development) − Adoption of aan Urban Forest Management Plan, or Tree Master Plan. (Conservation ahd Development, Public Works) − Percent of heat-vulnerable communities with tree cover / number of new tree plantings. (Public Works) − Square feet of pervious pavers installed. (Public Works) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Number of ER visits, deaths, and associated clinical care related to extreme heat events. (Health) Potential Partners − Community-based organizations − Community gardening groups − Environmental justice organizations − Organizations that support regenerative landscaping and agriculture. − Water and wastewater service providers − Contra Costa Health and related partners Chapter 6 172 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME fire risk and ensuring water supply resources are not compromised. (Supported by COS-P6.2) − Consider preparing and implementing an Urban Forest Management Plan, or Tree Master Plan for the unincorporated county. − Provide shade trees or shade structures at parks, plazas, and other outdoor spaces. − Update When updating the County tree ordinances that relate to trees and green infrastructure, to consider whether factors for approval of tree removal, planting, and/or replanting requirements are adequately consideringpromote expansion of the tree canopy and green infrastructure in Impacted Communities (e.g., tree cover, replanting standard). (Supported by TR-A2.2, HS-P2.2, and HS-A2.5) − Support efforts to develop incentive programs for home and business owners, school districts, and other local and regional property owners to increase the adoption of cool roofs, and green infrastructure, and other cooling strategies on private property. − Equity measure rankings on the Healthy Places Index. (Health) − Acres treated by green stormwater infrastructure. (Public Works) − East Bay Regional Park District Applicability − County operations − Existing development − New development − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Midterm (by 2028) 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 173 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME NI-6: Protect communities against additional hazards created or exacerbated by climate change. − Discourage new below-market-rate housing in High and Very High Wildfire Hazard Severity zones, the Wildland-Urban Interface, and Alquist-Priolo Fault Zones. If below-market-rate housing must be constructed within these zones, require it to be hardened or make use of nature-based solutions to remain habitable to the greatest extent possible. (HS-P3.42) − Treat susceptibility to hazards and threats to human health and life as primary considerations when reviewing all development proposals and changes to land uses. − Partner with community-based organizations to provide information to community members about how to prepare for projected climate change hazards. − Promote, and develop as necessary, available funding sources to create incentives for residents and businesses to prepare for natural disasters, particularly members of Impacted Communities. − Consider projected impacts of climate change when siting, designing, and identifying the construction and maintenance costs of capital projects. − Actively promote and expand participation in local and regional community emergency preparedness and response programs. − Support and fund efforts to enhance ongoing community and cross-sector engagement in community-level resilience and cohesion. Support non-government organizations to actively engage in developing a network of community-level actions that enhance resiliency. − Work with energy service providers to promote programs encouraging reduced energy use during extreme heat events. (HS- P8.2) Key Performance Metric(s): − Health outcomes of residents in Impacted Communities relative to the prior performance review. (Health) − Number of substandard homes that pose a health risk to residents in Impacted Communities relative to the prior performance review. (Conservation and Development) − Amount of support provided to businesses in Impacted Communities through the County’s small business assistance programs relative to the prior performance review. (Conservation and Development) − The rate of poverty in Impacted Communities relative to the prior performance review. (Conservation and Development) − Development and use of climate change vulnerability and resilience screening criteria for County capital investment projects. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Number of County-led or -supported outreach and engagement activities in support of emergency preparedness and hazard mitigation. Potential Partners − Community-based organizations − Contra Costa County Fire Protection District − Facility operators (school districts, libraries, community centers, etc.) − Kensington Fire Protection District − Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District − Moraga-Orinda Fire District − San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District − Medical service providers − Contra Costa Health and related partners − 211 − Red Cross − Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services Applicability − County operations − Existing development − New development − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Chapter 6 174 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − Support efforts by East Bay Regional Park District and other local recreation agencies to provide outdoor recreation facilities with adequate shading and refillable water stations where appropriate. (HS-P8.4) Time Frame Near term (by 2026) Climate Equity: Contra Costa County will address environmental factors leading to health disparities, promote safe and livable communities, and promote investments that improve neighborhood accessibility. CE-1: Provide access to affordable, clean, safe, and healthy housing and jobs. − In partnership with community-based organizations, reverse community deterioration and blight and improve personal and property safety in neighborhoods throughout Contra Costa County. − Ensure that new housing for households making less than the area median income and housing for other Impacted Communities are outside of hazard-prone areas, including for wildfires, landslides, floods, and sea level rise, or that they are hardened or make use of nature-based solutions to remain habitable to the greatest extent possible. (HS-P4.3) − In partnership with community-based organizations, secure funding to establish a program to provide low-cost or free air conditioning and filtration, improved insulation, low-emitting materials, energy solar and storage systems, energy efficiency, and indoor ventilation in homes, emphasizing buildings that are home to Impacted Community members. (SC-A6.2, SC-A6.3) − Track development of local micro-grid battery storage policies and systems in other jurisdictions and identify potential opportunities for Contra Costa County. − Encourage companies and entrepreneurs from local universities and national labs to create jobs in such industries as renewable Key Performance Metric(s): − Funds spent by County departments on energy efficiency and other services that support the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan goals in Impacted Communities compared to non-Impacted Communities. (Conservation and Development, Public Works) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Measures of health and social impacts of climate change that can reveal significant disparities and inequities across groups. (Health) Potential Partners − Community-based organizations − Environmental justice groups − Local grocery stores and food banks − Housing developers and contractors − Community colleges, schools, labor unions, and local career skills training programs − Workforce development programs − Workforce Development Boards Applicability − County operations − Existing development − New development − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 175 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME energy, transportation technology, diverse forms of manufacturing, biotech/biomedical, and clean tech. − Partner with local schools, the community college district, community-based organizations, labor unions, Workforce Development Boards, and other appropriate groups to provide training for residents for family-sustaining jobs in sustainable industries. Prioritize training for people currently or recently working in polluting or extractive activities. (SC-P1.1) − Provide support for State and federal programs that support family-sustaining jobs in sustainable industries, efforts to support organized labor, and living wage labor standards. − Adopt an ordinance at least as stringent as the State’s maximum idling laws, and coordinate with CARB and law enforcement to achieve compliance. (HS-A1.5) Time Frame Mid-term (by 2028) CE-2: Invest in solutions to support climate equity. − Evaluate and adjust County planning and expenditures for infrastructure and services as needed to ensure equitable investment in Impacted Communities, consistent with SB 1000. − Work with County departments to incorporate addressing climate change, providing climate solutions, and enhancing community equity more fully into County operations and the broad range of services the County provides. − As part of the 2024 CAP2024 CAAP and General Plan implementation, consider whether the strategy being implemented provides equitable benefits for Impacted Communities as a criterion for prioritization. − Continually engage communities most affected by climate change in developing and implementing climate solutions and ensure that such solutions provide benefits to Impacted Communities. − Advocate for the Contra Costa Employees Retirement Association to include use of Environmental, Social, and Governance criteria in its investment policies. Key Performance Metric(s): − Modified County investment policy to use ESG and to continue to prohibit investment in all securities issued by fossil fuel companies. (County Administrator, Treasurer/Tax Collector) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Number of community engagement opportunities in which County staff participate, including presentations to community groups. − Advocacy for Contra Costa Employees Retirement Association to use ESG in its investment priorities and to offer environmentally and socially responsible investment choices for members. (Board of Supervisors) Potential Partners − Community-based organizations − Contra Costa Employees Retirement Association − Environmental justice groups − School and community college districts − Contra Costa County Library − Business groups − Youth groups Applicability − Impacted Communities − Residents in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Mid-term (by 2028) Chapter 6 176 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − Require that the County’s Deferred Compensation Plan provider make available Environmental, Social, and Governance investment options for employees participating in the County’s 457 deferred compensation plan. − Amend the County investment policy to consider the use of Environmental, Social, and Governance criteria and to continue and improve efforts to divest from fossil fuels. − Work with schools, Contra Costa County Library, business groups, and community-based organizations to educate and inform community members about climate change and related sustainability topics., and the County’s climate goals and the actions the County is taking to achieve them. − Evaluate the issuance of Labeled Bonds, such as “Green”, “Sustainable”, or “Social” bonds, during the planning stage of a bond issuance by the County. It is the County’s preference to issue Labeled Bonds if the evaluation demonstrates a financial or policy benefit to the County. 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 177 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME CE-3: Increase access to parks and open space. − Establish a goal for all residents to live within a half-mile of a park or other green space. − Support land acquisition for new parks and open space areas and protect such lands through fee title acquisition or through deed restrictions like conservation easements. − Continue to construct and develop opportunities for new trails. − Support investment in existing park facilities, in partnership with regional agencies. − Increase the tree canopy on public property, especially in Impacted Communities and areas with a high heat index, by prioritizing funding for new street tree planting and maintenance. (HS-P2.2) Key Performance Metric(s): − Number of residents in unincorporated county, including those in Impacted Communities, within a half-mile of a park or other green space. (Conservation and Development) − Total acres of parks and green space by type. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − Agricultural groups − Contra Costa Resource Conservation District − East Bay Regional Park District − Environmental justice groups − Local land trusts and land conservation groups − Housing developers Applicability − New development − Residents in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Near term (by 2026) CE-4: Ensure residents have equitable, year-round access to affordable, local fresh food. − Support establishment of year-round Certified Farmers’ Markets in all communities, prioritizing Impacted Communities. − Work with community groups to establish and maintain urban gardens, particularly on vacant lots and park land in Impacted Communities. (SC-P4.1) − Encourage major supermarkets to locate in Impacted Communities. − Support co-operative grocery markets in Impacted Communities. Key Performance Metric(s): − Number of regular Certified Farmers’ Markets in all communities and in Impacted Communities. (Agriculture) − Number of permits issued for urban gardens in all communities (if permits are required by policy). (Agriculture) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Number of residents participating in In Lieu of Services (ILOS) food benefits. (Health) Potential Partners − Agricultural groups − Community gardening groups − Environmental justice groups − Farmers markets − Local grocery stores and food banks Applicability − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Chapter 6 178 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME Time Frame Long term (by 2030) CE-5: Ensure that large industrial facilities act as good neighbors. − Provide recommendations to responsible permit agencies regarding permits for fossil fuel-based industries and point sources Provide comments to responsible permit agencies on permit applications for large industrial facilities with significant emissions on potential measures to reduce impacts on and provide benefits to neighboring unincorporated communities.. − Regularly track data on fossil fuel production and transportation in Contra Costa County. − Encourage the economic development of industries and supply chains that emphasize a reduction in GHG emissions. − Encourage economic development and job creation in industries that advance the County’s sustainability goals, using the County’s policy on enhanced infrastructure financing districts. − As economic conditions change, support efforts to phase out heavily polluting and extractive industries and replace them with businesses that contribute to a regenerative and circular economy. − Require new or expanded commercial and industrial projects exceeding resulting in 25,000 square feet or more of gross habitable floor area to be near zero-emission operations, including the facilities themselves and the associated fleets, except for uses with fewer than five vehicles domiciled on-site. Require all necessary measures to achieve near-zero emissions. (HS-P1.8) Key Performance Metric(s): − Quantity and type of fossil fuels produced, refined, stored in, and distributed in the unincorporated county, to the extent data are available. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Information on specific fossil fuel facilities in Contra Costa County, including changes of ownership, mergers and acquisitions, investor presentations and reports, or any other public information that may indicate a facility's interest or intent to expand in the future, considering broader market trends in oil and gas refining and export in the Bay Area. (Conservation and Development) − Local air quality metrics. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − BAAQMD − CARB − Chambers of Commerce − East Bay Leadership Council − Community-based organizations − Environmental justice groups − Industry groups − Labor unions Applicability − Industrial operations − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Ongoing and near term (by 2026) 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 179 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME Leadership Strategies: Contra Costa County is a model for how local government can take action on climate issues. L-1: Establish Contra Costa County as a leader among local governments for addressing climate issues. − Continue to publicize and support the operations of the County's Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force and Green Government Group (G3) Champions. − Work with all County departments to encourage adoption of best practices from the County's Green Business Program and other practices that support the County’s climate goals. − Encourage development of new policies and initiatives that support the County’s climate goals. − Explore the creation of funding mechanisms, including a carbon impact fee, to support the County’s Sustainability Fund for investments in County facilities if additional financial resources are needed. − Support legislative efforts to establish a green bank able to equitably finance sustainability projects, including renewable energy, energy efficiency, and green infrastructure, for residential and commercial customers. (COS-A14.910) − Ensure that funding mechanisms to address climate change minimize or avoid disproportionate financial impacts to Impacted Communities and do not exacerbate economic inequities to the extent feasible. − Facilitate trainings for County staff on climate change (including the results of the Vulnerability Assessment and the 2024 CAP2024 Key Performance Metric(s): − Ongoing work products and semi-annual reports from Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force. (Conservation and Development) − Annual report on conditions placed on discretionary projects to ensure support of Climate Action and Adaptation Plan goals. (Conservation and Development) − Number of County departments that have adopted their own Climate Action Plan, or adopted practices that support the CAAP. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Number of County departments adopting best practices of the Green Business Program. (Conservation and Development) − Trainings and other information for County staff on climate change. (Conservation and Development) − Amount of pesticides applied to County properties. (Public Works, Health (IPM)) − Number of County facilities with an active integrated pest management plan. (Public Works, Health (IPM)) Potential Partners − All County departments − Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force − Community-based organizations − Green Business Program − Contra Costa County Library Applicability − County operations − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Ongoing and midterm (by 2028) Chapter 6 180 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME CAAP technical work) and how they can support climate action through their work with the County and at home. − Encourage County employees to explore innovative technologies and programs that address climate change. − Incorporate integrated pest management into new construction and retrofit programs on County properties. − Ensure County departments follow the County’s Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Policy and policy requirements are included in the contracting process. − Regularly review and revise the County’s purchasing and contracting programs as necessary to ensure consistency with the County’s sustainability and GHG reduction goals. (HS-A3.23) L-2: Continue to recognize the climate crisis as an emergency for Contra Costa County and make addressing climate change a top County priority. − Continue to implement the 2020 Climate Emergency Resolution approved by the Board of Supervisors, including conducting periodic reviews and updates to the Resolution. − Consider climate vulnerabilities and associated equity effects as factors in the County’s planning and expenditures for infrastructure and services to increase resilience and reduce GHG emissions countywide. − Consider development standards for the disclosure of climate and equity effects and vulnerabilities in staff reports for all decisions by the Board of Supervisors when such disclosures are helpful and necessary. Explore modifying County processes and forms to include questions to ensure the proposed action is consistent with the 2024 CAP2024 CAAP and equity goals. − Assess County programs, policies, operations, and projects (excluding stationary sources) for their contribution to achieving the County’s GHG emissions reduction goals and consistency with the 2024 CAP2024 CAAP. Key Performance Metric(s): − Actions taken to implement Climate Emergency Resolution. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − All County departments − Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force − Community-based organizations − Local environmental groups Applicability − County operations Time Frame Mid-term (by 2028) 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 181 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − Disclose GHG emissions to a registry such as the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP). Implementation Strategies: Contra Costa County will ensure it follows through to achieve the goals and actions in this Climate Action and Adaptation Plan. IS-1: Monitor and report progress toward achieving Climate Action and Adaptation Plan goals on an annual basis. − Assign responsibility for facilitating and supporting 2024 CAAP implementation to the County's Department of Conservation and Development. − Identify key staff from each department responsible for supporting 2024 CAAP implementation and updates for annual reporting and monitoring. − Continue to involve community-based organizations and other key stakeholders in reviewing and recommending 2024 CAAP action items. − Continue to prepare an annual progress report on implementation of the recommended GHG emissions reduction strategies and progress toward the 2024 CAAP goals. When information is available, provide updates on estimated GHG emissions reductions and current GHG emissions levels. − Monitor implementation of the Sustainability Fund for projects in County facilities − Use the 2024 CAAP implementation and monitoring tool to track GHG benefits from 2024 CAAP implementation and identify progress toward the 2024 CAAP reduction goals. − Pursue refinements to improve the County permitting system and other systems as needed to support collection of 2024 CAAP implementation data. − Work with Contra Costa Health on exploring, and if appropriate, developing health indicators related to climate change to help Key Performance Metric(s): − Preparation of Annual Report and presentation to Sustainability Commission and Board of Supervisors. (Conservation and Development) − Dedicated funding in annual budget for implementation of the 2024 CAAP. (County Administrator) − Regularly maintained 2024 CAAP tracking tool. (Conservation and Development) − Updates to County permitting system to support tracking of 2024 CAAP implementation. (Conservation and Development) − Sustainability Fund progress report. (Public Works) Potential Partners − All County departments − Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force − Sustainability Commission Applicability − County operations − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Ongoing and near term (by 2026) Chapter 6 182 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME inform progress on current actions and effectiveness of adaptation strategies. IS-2: Continue collaborative partnerships with agencies and community groups that support Climate Action and Adaptation Plan implementation, with an emphasis on residents and community-based organizations from Impacted Communities. − Participate in local and regional organizations that provide tools and support for energy efficiency, energy conservation, GHG emissions reductions, sustainable infrastructure development, adaptation, public information, and implementation of this 2024 CAAP. − Enable effective partnerships to implement high-priority strategies from the 2024 CAAP by working through established interagency collaborations and joint exercise of powers authorities and forming new arrangements of various types where necessary to be effective. − Provide input to partner agencies on policy barriers that need to be addressed at the State level. − Continue collaboration with other local governments in Contra Costa County on climate action and related subjects, including an annual Sustainability Exchange meeting of all local government staff in Contra Costa County that focus on climate action and adaptation planning and implementation. Key Performance Metric(s): − Partnerships maintained. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − All County departments − Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force − Sustainability Commission − Agency partners − Community-based organizations Applicability − County operations − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Near term (by 2026) 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 183 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME IS-3: Secure necessary funding to implement the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan. − Identify funding sources and levels for reduction strategies as part of annual reporting. − Include GHG emissions reduction strategies in the capital improvement programs for County-owned and managed facilities and infrastructure, and other plans as appropriate. − Pursue local, regional, state, and federal grants to support implementation. − Explore dedicated funding sources for 2024 CAAP implementation, including from the Sustainability Fund or other revenue sources as needed. − Explore opportunities to allocate a portion of revenues from revenue-generating strategies in the 2024 CAAP to its implementation. Key Performance Metric(s): − Climate action integration into all department work plans and capital improvement program. (County Administrator, Public Works) − Number of grants and amount of funding being pursued, awarded, and managed. (Conservation and Development) − Funding provided for the Sustainability Fund. (County Administrator) Potential Partners − All County departments − Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force − Agency partners Applicability − County operations − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Ongoing and near term (by 2026) IS-4: Continue to update the baseline emissions inventory and Climate Action and Adaptation Plan every five years. − Prepare a GHG emissions inventory that shows GHG emissions after emergency conditions created by the COVID-19 pandemic are expected to have ended. Update the community-wide GHG emissions inventory every five years at a minimum and more frequently as resources are available. Prepare an inventory for the 2024 calendar year within a year of adoption of the 2024 CAAP. − Update the 2024 CAAP to incorporate new technologies, practices, and other options to further reduce emissions. (HS-A3.1) Key Performance Metric(s): − Updated GHG inventories every five years. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − All County departments − Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force Applicability − County operations − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Timeframe Mid-term (by 2028) Chapter 6 184 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME IS-5: Maintain and update the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan to allow for greater resilience. − Coordinate, where possible, updates of the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan, General Plan Safety Element, and Local Hazard Mitigation Plan cycles to ensure plan alignment and coordination of climate mitigation and adaptation efforts. − Assess the implementation status and effectiveness of adaptation strategies. Key Performance Metric(s): − Progress on implementing GHG emissions reduction strategies, climate adaptation strategies, and general sustainability strategies. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − All County departments − Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force Applicability − County operations − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Near term (by 2026) CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 185 7. GLOSSARY 7. Glossary Adaptation. Making changes in response to current or future conditions (such as the increased frequency and intensity of climate-related hazards), usually to reduce harm and to take advantage of new opportunities.16,17 Adaptive capacity. The “combination of the strengths, attributes, and resources available to an individual, community, society, or organization that can be used to prepare for and undertake actions to reduce adverse impacts, moderate harm, or exploit beneficial opportunities”.18 Assets. A valued feature of a community that may be harmed by climate change. Assets may include buildings, infrastructure, community services, ecosystems, and economic drivers.19 Bay-friendly landscaping. A holistic approach to landscaping that works with the natural conditions of the San Francisco Bay Watershed. Bay-friendly practices foster soil health and conserve water and other valuable resources while reducing waste and preventing pollution. Carbon-free energy. Means that the energy supplied by a resource generates no carbon emissions. Carbon neutral. Reducing GHG emissions released to the atmosphere to zero over a period of time, either by entirely eliminating all GHG emissions or by balancing out all remaining GHG emissions through carbon removal practices so that the "net" emissions are zero. Carbon offsets. A reduction or removal of emissions of carbon dioxide or other GHGs made to compensate for emissions made elsewhere. Carbon sequestration. The process of storing carbon dioxide in locations other than the atmosphere, where it cannot contribute to climate change or ocean acidification. For the purposes of this plan, carbon sequestration refers to nature-based carbon removal through the storage of atmospheric carbon in vegetation, soils, woody products, and aquatic environments.20 Climate change. A change in the state of the climate that can be identified by changes in the mean and/or the variability of its properties, and that persists for an extended period, typically decades or longer. In the context of this plan, refers to changes brought on by human activities.21,22 Chapter 7 186 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 Climate justice. The concept that no group of people should disproportionately bear the burden of climate change impacts or the costs of mitigation and adaptation.23 Climate Resilience Districts. Special districts that can raise and allocate money to fund projects and operations that address climate change adaptation efforts, such as those to help protect against sea level rise, wildfire, and drought. They have the authority to establish special taxes, assessments, or other charges. Local governments may establish climate resilience districts under Assembly Bill 852, adopted in 2022. Community-wide. Operative throughout the whole community. Complete streets. A transportation facility that is planned, designed, constructed, operated, and maintained to provide comfortable and convenient mobility, and improve accessibility and connectivity to essential community destinations for all users, regardless of whether they are travelling as pedestrians, bicyclists, public transportation riders, or drivers. Complete streets are especially attuned to the needs of people walking, using assistive mobility devices, rolling, biking, and riding transit.24 Direct access: Electricity purchased directly from an Electric Service Provider (ESP) rather than an investor-owned utility company or Community Choice Energy provider, generally to power large industrial, commercial, and institutional facilities. Electric Service Provider (ESP): An entity that is not a utility company, but provides electricity service to specific customers (usually large industrial, commercial, or institutional sites) within a utility’s service area. This service is often known as direct access electricity. ESPs are overseen by Sstate regulators. Electric vehicle. A zero-emission vehicle that uses electricity stored in a battery to power one or more electric motors and can be plugged in at home, work, fleet, or public charging stations.25 Embeddodied carbon (also known as emboedided carbon). The total GHGs emitted in the production and use of a good or service. For example, the lifecycle GHG emissions of building materials would include emissions resulting from the extraction, manufacturing, transportation, installation, maintenance, and disposal of the materials. Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG). The implementation of a governance structure and reporting system that evaluates a company's performance related to environmental and social factors that go beyond the company’s duty to maximize profits. Environmental metrics may include how well a company performs related to conserving energy, water, and other natural resources, protecting ecosystems and biodiversity, 7. Glossary Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 187 reducing carbon emissions, mitigating climate change, and promoting resilience. Social metrics include factors such as whether a company is union friendly, provides fair pay and leave, prioritizes worker health and safety, and proactively seeks a diverse workforce. Governance refers to how the company manages both the environmental and social aspects of its policies, programs, and reporting.26 Equity. The state in which each individual or group is allocated the resources needed to reach an equal outcome.27,28 Exposure. The presence of people, infrastructure, natural systems, and economic, cultural, and social resources in areas that are subject to harm.29 Extreme event. When a weather or climate variable exceeds the upper or lower thresholds of its observed range.30,31 Extreme heat. Temperatures that are hotter than 98 percent of the historical high temperatures for the area, as measured between April and October of 1961 to 1990. Across Contra Costa County, the extreme heat threshold is 96.6°F, although it varies from 87.1°F in Kensington to 102.4°F in Byron. Fire hazard severity zone. An area of significant fire hazard based on fuels, terrain, weather, and other relevant hazards.32 First mile, last mile. Refers to the first or final mile of a trip, typically between the origin/final destination of the trip and the nearest public transit access point. Graywater. Untreated wastewater that has not been contaminated by toilet discharge; affected by infectious, contaminated, or unhealthy bodily wastes; and does not present a threat from contamination by unhealthful processing, manufacturing, or operating wastes.33 Green bond. A green bond is a bond intended to finance projects with environmental benefits, such as renewable energy, public transportation, and pollution prevention and remediation. Green infrastructure. Infrastructure that filters and absorbs stormwater where it falls. The federal Water Infrastructure Improvement Act (2019) defines green infrastructure as "the range of measures that use plant or soil systems, permeable pavement or other permeable surfaces or substrates, stormwater harvest and reuse, or landscaping to store, infiltrate, or evapotranspirate stormwater and reduce flows to sewer systems or to surface waters".34 Chapter 7 188 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 Greenhouse gas(es). Greenhouse gases (GHGs) are gases that allow sunlight to pass through but reflect heat radiated from the Earth’s surface, trapping heat in the lower atmosphere. Common GHGs include water vapor, carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O). They may be emitted by natural or human processes. Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions inventory. A quantified list of a community’s GHG emissions and sources.35 Hazard. An event or physical condition that has the potential to cause fatalities, injuries, property damage, infrastructure damage, agricultural losses, damage to the environment, interruption of business, or other types of harm or loss.36 Hazard mitigation. Sustained action taken to reduce or eliminate the long-term risk to human life and property through actionby means of efforts that reduce hazard, exposure, and vulnerability.37 Impact (Climate impact). The effects (especially the negative effects) of a hazard or other conditions associated with climate change.38 Impacted Communities. Low-income areas that are disproportionately affected by environmental pollution and other hazards that can lead to negative health effects, exposure, or environmental degradation. Senate Bill (SB) 1000 labels such communities “disadvantaged communities”, but county residents found that this term was neither supportive nor reflective of their community and opted for the term Impacted Communities instead. SB 1000 defines Impacted Communities per Health and Safety Code Section 39711, specifying CalEnviroScreen as the primary screening method for identifying Impacted Communities. In general, census tracts in the highest quartile of scores (75 to 100) are considered Impacted Communities under SB 1000. Just Transition. Refers to the transition away from the extractive, profit-driven economy and culture to one that is ecologically sustainable, just, and equitable for all members of society. A central theme of the Just Transition is moving away from fossil fuels to renewable energy and the need to create sustainable green jobs for workers, particularly those in the fossil fuel industry. Low-carbon building. Buildings designed and constructed to release little to no carbon over their lifetimes. 7. Glossary Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 189 Low-carbon construction materials. Low-carbon construction materials may refer to building materials that meet the State’s requirements under AB 2446, which requires the State to develop a strategy for the building sector to achieve a 40 percent net reduction in GHG emissions of building materials by 2035. Low-carbon energy. Energy sources that release less carbon than fossil fuels. Examples of low-carbon energy sources are solar, biomethane, and low- to zero-carbon hydrogen.39 Low-Stress Bike Network. Low-stress cycling refers to the idea that a network may be established to ensure that there are ways in which cyclists can easily access areas throughout a community without being an extremely confident rider.40 MCE. Community Choice Energy provider for unincorporated county and most of the cities in Contra Costa County. Microgrid. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a microgrid is a group of interconnected loads and distributed energy resources in clearly defined electrical boundaries that acts as a single controllable entity with respect to the grid. A microgrid can operate in either grid-connected or in island mode, including entirely off-grid applications. Natural carbon sequestration. Assembly Bill 1757 (2022) defines natural carbon sequestration as “actions that are undertaken on natural and working lands to remove and provide storage of atmospheric greenhouse gases in vegetation and soils. This shall include preservation, conservation, restoration, and sustainable management of these lands, which may include compost application, cover crops, hedgerows, planned grazing, urban forestry, riparian restoration, restoration of tidal flows to wetlands, and other forms of wetland restoration, among other relevant actions”.41 Natural infrastructure. An area or system that is either naturally occurring or naturalized and then intentionally managed to provide multiple benefits for the environment and human well-being. Natural and working lands. Lands not covered by buildings or structures, including forests, grasslands, shrublands, woodlands, rangelands, farmland, wetlands, coastal areas, and the green spaces in urban and built environments. These lands serve important ecological purposes, including providing food and fiber, clean air, water, flood protection, species habitats, and other resources and benefits.42 Chapter 7 190 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 Near zero-emission. A building, vehicle, technology, or other type of operation that uses zero-emission technologies, enables technologies that provide a pathway to zero-emissions operations, or incorporates other technologies that significantly reduce criteria pollutants, toxic air contaminants, and GHG emissions.43 Net-zero. Means that emissions of GHGs to the atmosphere are balanced by removals of GHG emissions over a period of time.44 Open space. Land that is not intensively developed for residential, commercial, industrial, or institutional use. Qualified climate action plan. A climate action plan that meets State requirements such that future development projects requiring environmental review under State law can streamline greenhouse gas impact analyses by demonstrating consistency with the plan. Reach code. A local municipal code that exceeds the State building code. An energy reach code must be at least as stringent as the statewide code, cost-effective, approved by the California Energy Commission, and updated and re-approved with each State Energy Code update. Resilience. The capacity of any entity—an individual, a community, an organization, or a natural system—to prepare for disruptions, to recover from shocks and stresses, and to adapt and grow from a disruptive experience. Community resilience is the ability of communities to withstand, recover, and learn from past disasters to strengthen future response and recovery efforts.45,46,47 Resilience Hubs. Community-serving facilities augmented to support residents and coordinate resource distribution and services before, during, and after a natural hazard event. Risk. The potential for damage or loss created by the interaction of hazards with assets such as buildings, infrastructure, or natural and cultural resources.48 Sea level rise. The worldwide average rise in mean sea level, which may be due to a number of different causes, such as the thermal expansion of sea water and the addition of water to the oceans from the melting of glaciers, ice caps, and ice sheets.49 Sensitivity. The level to which a species, natural system, or community, government, etc. would be affected by changing climate conditions.50 7. Glossary Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 191 Social vulnerability. The susceptibility of a given population to harm from exposure to a hazard, directly affecting its ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover from the hazard.51,52 Solid waste. The federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act defines solid waste as “any garbage or refuse, sludge from a wastewater treatment plant, water supply treatment plant, or air pollution control facility and other discarded material, resulting from industrial, commercial, mining, and agricultural operations, and from community activities. Nearly everything we do leaves behind some kind of waste. It is important to note that the definition of solid waste is not limited to wastes that are physically solid. Many solid wastes are liquid, semi-solid, or contained gaseous material”.. State Responsibility Area. The area in the state where the State of California has primary financial responsibility for the prevention and suppression of wildland fires. Susceptibility. A person or population’s potential for vulnerability due to demographic, socioeconomic, and geolocation characteristics.53 Sustainability. Meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Transportation network company (TNC). Companies that provide prearranged transportation services for compensation using an online-enabled application or platform to connect drivers using their personal vehicles with passengers. Unincorporated Area. All land and water within a county that is outside the boundaries of incorporated cities and towns. Development in the unincorporated area is subject to County land use regulations. Unincorporated communities: Communities in the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County subject to County land use regulations. Urban heat island. The phenomenon in which large urban areas experience higher temperatures, greater pollution, and more negative health impacts during hot months due to a combination of heat-absorptive surfaces, heat-generating activities, and the absence of vegetation.54 Vulnerable road user law. Laws that prioritize the safety of road users who are not motor vehicle drivers. Provisions may include instituting strong penalties for motor vehicle drivers who seriously injure people using roadways who are not protected within a motor vehicle. Chapter 7 192 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 Vulnerability. Climate vulnerability describes the degree to which natural, built, and human systems are susceptible “to harm from exposure to stresses associated with environmental and social change and from the absence of capacity to adapt”.55 Vulnerability assessment. An analysis of how a changing climate may harm a community and which elements—people, buildings and structures, resources, and other assets—are most vulnerable to its effects based on an assessment of exposure, sensitivity, the potential impact(s), and the community’s adaptive capacity.56 Wildland-urban interface. An area where houses and wildland vegetation directly intermingle, creating a significant threat to human life or property from wildfires. Zero-emission vehicle. A vehicle that does not produce emissions when in operation, including battery-electric vehicles and hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles.57 Zero-net-energy building. A building where the value of the energy produced on-site by renewable energy resources is equal to the value of the grid energy consumed annually, as measured using the California Energy Commission’s Time Dependent Valuation Metric.58 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 193 Notes and Sources 1 https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/fact-sheets/ab-32-global-warming-solutions-act-2006 2 California Air Resources Board. 2022. 2022 Scoping Plan for Achieving Carbon Neutrality. https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/our-work/programs/ab-32-climate-change-scoping-plan 3 https://www.opr.ca.gov/ceqa/guidelines/. 4 Bay Air Quality Management District. 2022. CEQA Thresholds for Evaluating the Significance of Climate Impacts from Land Use Projects and Plans. https://www.baaqmd.gov/plans-and-climate/california-environmental- quality-act-ceqa/updated-ceqa-guidelines 5 https://ccta.net/planning/countywide-transportation-plan/. 6 https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/8465/Healthy-Lands-Healthy-People---A-Carbon-. 7 https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/68157/Declaration-of-Climate-Emergency 8 Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, “Summary for Policymakers”, in Climate Change 2021: The Physical Science Basis. Edited by V. Masson-Delmotte et al. Contribution of Working Group 1 to the Sixth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, in press, Cambridge University Press, 2021. 9 Bedsworth, Louise, Dan Cayan, Guido Franco, Leah Fisher, Sonya Ziaja, “Statewide Summary Report”, in California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment, prepared by California Governor’s Office of Planning and Research, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, California Energy Commission, California Public Utilities Commission, publication no. SUM-CCCA4-2018-013, 2018. 10 California Energy Commission, California Strategic Growth Council. 2024. “Cal-Adapt: Extreme Heat and Warm Nights”. https://cal-adapt.org/tools/extreme-heat. 11 https://cchealth.org/health-data/pdf/2015-climate-change.pdf 12 Swan, Rachel, Fagan, Kevin. “Winter storms bring snow to the Bay Area – with more to come”. San Francisco Chronicle. 23 February 2023, https://www.sfchronicle.com/weather/article/bay-area-winter-storms- 17801980.php. 13 https://www.baaqmd.gov/plans-and-climate/california-environmental-quality-act-ceqa/updated-ceqa- guidelines 14 https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/8533/Active-Transportation 15 https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/8532/Vision-Zero 16 Louise Bedsworth, Dan Cayan, Guido Franco, Leah Fisher, and Sonya Ziaja, “Statewide Summary Report”, in California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment, publication no. SUMCCCA4-2018-013, 2018. 17 California Natural Resource Agency, Safeguarding California Plan: 2018 Update: California’s Climate Adaptation Strategy, 2018, http://resources.ca.gov/docs/climate/safeguarding/update2018/safeguarding- california-plan-2018-update.pdf. 18 Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, “Annex II: Glossary”, ed. K. J. Mach, S. Planton, and C. von Stechow, in Climate Change 2014: Synthesis Report, ed. Core Writing Team, R. K. Pachauri, and L. A. Meyer (Geneva, Switzerland: IPCC, 2014), p. 117–130, https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar5/syr/. 19 California Office of Emergency Services. 2020 California Adaptation Planning Guide. https://www.caloes.ca.gov/cal-oes-divisions/hazard-mitigation/hazard-mitigation-planning/california-climate- adaptation. 20 United States Geological Survey. N.d. What’s the difference between geologic and biologic carbon sequestration? https://www.usgs.gov/faqs/whats-difference-between-geologic-and-biologic-carbon- sequestration. 21 California Natural Resource Agency, Safeguarding California Plan: 2018 Update: California’s Climate Adaptation Strategy, 2018, p. 231, 194 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 http://resources.ca.gov/docs/climate/safeguarding/update2018/safeguarding-california-plan-2018- update.pdf. 22 Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, “Annex II: Glossary”, ed. K. J. Mach, S. Planton, and C. von Stechow, in Climate Change 2014: Synthesis Report, ed. Core Writing Team, R. K. Pachauri, and L. A. Meyer (Geneva, Switzerland: IPCC, 2014), p. 117–130, https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar5/syr/. 23 H. Cooley, E. Moore, M. Heberger, and L. Allen (Pacific Institute), Social Vulnerability to Climate Change in California: A White Paper from the California Energy Commission’s California Climate Change Center, California Energy Commission, publication number CEC-500-2012-013, 2012, https://www.energy.ca.gov/2012publications/CEC-500-2012-013/CEC-500-2012-013.pdf. 24 California Department of Transportation. 2021. Director’s Policy. https://dot.ca.gov/-/media/dot- media/programs/sustainability/documents/dp-37-complete-streets-a11y.pdf. 25 California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development. 2021. California Zero-Emission Vehicles Market Development Strategy. https://static.business.ca.gov/wp- content/uploads/2021/02/ZEV_Strategy_Feb2021.pdf. 26 Henderson, Jessyca. 2022. Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance – The Basics. https://www.aiacontracts.org/articles/6500607-environmental-social-and-corporate-governance--the-basics. 27 California Natural Resource Agency, Safeguarding California Plan: 2018 Update: California’s Climate Adaptation Strategy, 2018, p. 231, http://resources.ca.gov/docs/climate/safeguarding/update2018/safeguarding-california-plan-2018- update.pdf. 28 PolicyLink, Equity Manifesto, 2015, 2018, https://www.policylink.org/about-us/equitymanifesto. 29 Louise Bedsworth, Dan Cayan, Guido Franco, Leah Fisher, Sonya Ziaja, “Statewide Summary Report”, in California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment, publication number: SUMCCCA4-2018-013, 2018. 30 California Natural Resource Agency, Safeguarding California Plan: 2018 Update: California’s Climate Adaptation Strategy, 2018, p. 231. 31 International Panel on Climate Change, “Glossary of Terms”, in Managing the Risks of Extreme Events and Disasters to Advance Climate Change Adaptation, special report of Working Groups I and II of the IPCC, ed. C. B. Field et al. (Cambridge, UK, and New York: Cambridge University Press, 2012), p. 555–564, https://www.ipcc.ch/site/assets/uploads/2018/03/SREX_Full_Report-1.pdf. 32 California Office of the State Fire Marshal. 2021. Fire Hazard Severity Zones. https://osfm.fire.ca.gov/divisions/community-wildfire-preparedness-and-mitigation/wildfire- preparedness/fire-hazard-severity-zones/. 33 California Plumbing Code. 2019. California Plumbing Code Chapter 16A, Section 1604A.0. 34 Water Infrastructure Improvement Act Public Law 115-436, 132 Stat. 5558, 5559, 5560, 5561 and 5562. 2019. https://www.congress.gov/115/plaws/publ436/PLAW-115publ436.pdf. 35 World Resources Institute, C40 Cities, ICLEI Local Governments for Sustainability. 2021. Global Protocol for Community-Scale Greenhouse Gas Inventories. https://ghgprotocol.org/sites/default/files/standards/GPC_Full_MASTER_RW_v7.pdf 36 California Office of Emergency Services, California State Hazard Mitigation Plan, 2018, https://www.caloes.ca.gov/cal-oes-divisions/hazard-mitigation/hazard-mitigationplanning/state-hazard- mitigation-plan. 37 California Office of Emergency Services, California State Hazard Mitigation Plan, 2018. 38 California Office of Emergency Services. 2020 California Adaptation Planning Guide. https://www.caloes.ca.gov/cal-oes-divisions/hazard-mitigation/hazard-mitigation-planning/california-climate- adaptation. 39 State of California, 2024. ”The State of California’s Draft Priority Climate Action Plan.” https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2024-03/california-cprg-priority-climate-action-plan.pdf. Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 195 40 University of Delaware. ND. “Complete Communities Toolbox”. https://www.completecommunitiesde.org/planning/complete-streets/low-stress-bike/. 41 California Code, Health, and Safety Code, California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (Division 25.5.), Part 4. Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reductions, Section 38561.5, amended by Assembly Bill 1757 (2022). 42 California Air Resources Board. 2019. California 2030 Natural and Working Lands Climate Change Implementation Plan. https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2019-06/draft-nwl-ip-040419.pdf. 43 California Code, Health and Safety Code, Section 44258. 44 California Climate Crisis Act, Health and Safety Code, Section 38562.2 (2022). 45 California Natural Resource Agency, Safeguarding California Plan: 2018 Update: California’s Climate Adaptation Strategy, 2018, p. 231. 46 Louise Bedsworth, Dan Cayan, Guido Franco, Leah Fisher, Sonya Ziaja, “Statewide Summary Report”, in California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment, publication number: SUMCCCA4-2018-013, 2018. 47 California Natural Resource Agency, Safeguarding California Plan: 2018 Update: California’s Climate Adaptation Strategy, 2018, p. 231. 48 California Office of Emergency Services, California State Hazard Mitigation Plan, 2018, https://www.caloes.ca.gov/cal-oes-divisions/hazard-mitigation/hazard-mitigationplanning/state-hazard- mitigation-plan. 49 California Natural Resources Agency and California Ocean Protection Council. 2018. State of California Sea- Level Rise Guidance, 2018 Update. https://opc.ca.gov/webmaster/ftp/pdf/agenda_items/20180314/Item3_Exhibit-A_OPC_SLR_Guidance-rd3.pdf. 50 California Natural Resource Agency, Safeguarding California Plan: 2018 Update: California’s Climate Adaptation Strategy, 2018, p. 231. 51 H. Cooley, E. Moore, M. Heberger, and L. Allen (Pacific Institute), Social Vulnerability to Climate Change in California: A White Paper from the California Energy Commission’s California Climate Change Center, California Energy Commission, 2012, publication number CEC-500-2012-013, https://www.energy.ca.gov/2012publications/CEC-500- 2012-013/CEC-500-2012-013.pdf. 52 Louise Bedsworth, Dan Cayan, Guido Franco, Leah Fisher, Sonya Ziaja, “Statewide Summary Report”, in California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment, publication number: SUMCCCA4-2018-013, 2018. 53 California Office of Emergency Services. 2020 California Adaptation Planning Guide. https://www.caloes.ca.gov/cal-oes-divisions/hazard-mitigation/hazard-mitigation-planning/california-climate- adaptation. 54 California Environmental Protection Agency. 2022. Urban Heat Island Index for California. https://calepa.ca.gov/climate/urban-heat-island-index-for-california. 55 World Bank, Climate & Disaster Risk Screening Tools: Key Terms, 2019, https://climatescreeningtools.worldbank.org/content/key-terms-0. 56 California Office of Emergency Services. 2020 California Adaptation Planning Guide. https://www.caloes.ca.gov/cal-oes-divisions/hazard-mitigation/hazard-mitigation-planning/california-climate- adaptation. 57 California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development. 2021. California Zero-Emission Vehicles Market Development Strategy. https://static.business.ca.gov/wp- content/uploads/2021/02/ZEV_Strategy_Feb2021.pdf. 58 Berkeley Lab. ND. ”The Zero-Net-Energy (ZNE) Home.” https://svach.lbl.gov/the-zero-net-energy-home/. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN APPENDIX A: KEY STATE AND REGIONAL CLIMATE CHANGE POLICY AND LEGISLATION Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 A -1 Since 2005, the State of California and regional agencies haves responded to growing concerns over the effects of climate change by adopting a comprehensive approach to addressing emissions in the public and private sectors through legislation starting with the first Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (Assembly Bill [AB] 32) and more recently with aggressive statewide targets on greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction (Senate Bill [SB] 32 and AB 1279), renewable energy portfolio standard (SB 100), and zero-emissions vehicles (SB 1275). The following table provides a summary of key State and regional climate change policy and legislation through mid-2023, beginning with the most recent actions. POLICY OR LEGISLATION DATE DESCRIPTION Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) Rules 9- 4 and 9-6 2023 Nitrogen Oxides from Natural Gas-Fired Furnaces, Boilers, and Water Heaters BAAQMD adopted amendments to Regulation 9, Inorganic Gaseous Pollutants, Rule 4, Nitrogen Oxides from Natural Gas- Fired Furnaces (Rule 9-4), and Rule 6, Nitrogen Oxides Emissions from Natural Gas-Fired Boilers and Water Heaters (Rule 9-6). Space- and water-heating appliances generate a large portion of nitrogen oxide (NOX) emissions from sources in the Bay Area. NOX are a key criteria pollutant as a precursor to ozone and secondary particulate matter (PM) formation. The amendments would require more stringent NOX emission standards for space- and water-heating appliances within the BAAQMD’s jurisdiction starting in year 2023 and would substantially reduce NOX emissions from these appliances commonly found in single-family homes and commercial applications. The amendments to Rules 9-4 and 9-6 include the following elements: • Sales and installation of smaller water heaters and boilers (below 75,000 BTU/hour) must be zero emission, starting in 2027. • Sales and installation of furnaces (heat input rate less than 175,000 BTU/hour) must be zero emission starting in 2029. • Sales of larger water heaters and boilers (between 75,000 and 2 million BTU/hour) must be zero emission starting in 2031. Appendix A A -2 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 POLICY OR LEGISLATION DATE DESCRIPTION Existing appliances can remain in operation but the rule would apply once they need replacement. Nitrogen Oxides from Natural Gas-Fired Furnaces BAAQMD adopted the amendment to Regulation 9, Inorganic Gaseous Pollutants, Rule 4, Nitrogen Oxides from Natural Gas- Fired Furnaces (Rule 9-4). Space- and water-heating appliances generate a large portion of nitrogen oxide (NOX) emissions from sources in the Bay Area. NOX are a key criteria pollutant as a precursor to ozone and secondary particulate matter (PM) formation. The amended rule introduces new NOX standards for new, natural gas-fired furnaces, requiring reduced NOx emissions for devices beginning in 2024 and zero NOx emissions for furnaces beginning in 2029. This more stringent NOX emission standards for space-heating appliances within the BAAQMD’s jurisdiction would substantially reduce NOX emissions from these appliances commonly found in single- family homes. Nitrogen Oxides from Natural Gas-Fired Boilers and Water Heaters BAAQMD adopted the amendment to Regulation 9, Inorganic Gaseous Pollutants, Rule 6, Nitrogen Oxides Emissions from Natural Gas-Fired Boilers and Water Heaters (Rule 9-6). As mentioned, space- and water-heating appliances generate a large portion of NOX emissions from sources in the Bay Area. This amendment would require a new zero-NOX standards with compliance dates ranging from 2027 to 2031 to new, natural gas-fired devices. More stringent NOX emission standards for water-heating appliances within the BAAQMD’s jurisdiction would substantially reduce NOX emissions from these appliances commonly found in single-family homes and commercial applications. Advanced Clean Fleets 2023 California Air Resources Board (CARB) adopted the Advanced Clean Fleet standards in August of 2023. This regulation requires California state and local government fleets, including city, county, special district, and State agency fleets, to ensure 50% percent of vehicle purchases are zero-emissions beginning in 2024 and 100% percent of vehicle purchases are zero- emissions by 2027. They must also initially submit a compliance report by April 1, 2024. Small government fleets of 10 or fewer vehicles and those in designated counties would start their ZEV purchases beginning in 2027. Alternatively, State and local government fleet owners may elect to use the ZEV Milestones Option. State and local government fleets may purchase either ZEVs or near-ZEVs, or a combination of ZEVs and near-ZEVs, Key Climate Change Policy and Legislation Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 A -3 POLICY OR LEGISLATION DATE DESCRIPTION until 2035. Starting in 2035, only ZEVs will meet the requirements. Title 24, Part 6, Building Energy- Efficiency Standards 2022, updated every three years The California Energy Resources Conservation and Development Commission (now the CEC) adopted energy conservation standards for new residential and nonresidential buildings in June 1977 and most recently revised in 2022. (Title 24, Part 6, of the California Code of Regulations [CCR]). Title 24 requires the design of building shells and building components to conserve energy. The standards are updated periodically to allow for consideration and possible incorporation of new energy efficiency technologies and methods. The 2022 Building Energy Efficiency Standards, which were adopted on August 11, 2022, went into effect January 1, 2023. Title 24, Part 11, Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen) 2022, updated every three years On July 17, 2008, the California Building Standards Commission adopted the nation’s first green building standards, the California Green Building Standards Code (24 CCR, Part 11, known as “CALGreen”) as part of the California Building Standards Code. CALGreen establishes planning and design standards for sustainable site development, energy efficiency (in excess of the California Energy Code requirements), water conservation, material conservation, and internal air contaminants. The mandatory provisions of CALGreen became effective January 1, 2011. Like the other parts of Title 24, CALGreen is updated every three years. The current version of CALGreen was adopted in 2022 and became effective on January 1, 2023. Title 20, Appliance Efficiency Regulations 2020, updated every three years The CEC adopted the 2016 Appliance Efficiency Regulations (Title 20 CCR Sections 1601–1608), which include standards for both federally regulated appliances and non–federally regulated appliances. Though these regulations are now often viewed as “business as usual,” they exceed the standards imposed by all other states, and they reduce GHG emissions by reducing energy demand. California introduced Title 20 requirements in two phases, with Tier I going into effect January 1, 2018, and Tier II in effect July 1, 2019. Advanced Clean Car II standards 2022 California Air Resources Board (CARB) adopted the Advanced Clean Car II standards in August of 2022. This regulation requires that all new light-duty vehicles (e.g., passenger cars, small trucks, and SUVs) sold in the state to be zero-emission by 2035, with interim targets for new light-duty vehicle sales beginning in 2026. There are some limited exceptions for plug- in hybrid vehicles. Appendix A A -4 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 POLICY OR LEGISLATION DATE DESCRIPTION Senate Bill 852 2022 Authorizes cities, counties, special districts, or a combination of any of the above to form a climate resilience district for the purposes of raising and allocating funding for eligible projects and the operating expenses of eligible projects. Assembly Bill 1757 2022 Requires the California Natural Resources Agency (CNRA), by January 1, 2024, in collaboration with CARB, the California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA), the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA), and an expert advisory committee, to set targets for natural carbon sequestration and nature-based climate solutions for 2030, 2038, and 2045, which must be integrated into the Scoping Plan and other State policies. CARB must ensure that double counting of emissions reductions is avoided and emissions reduction projects and actions that receive State funding will not be eligible to generate credits under any market-based compliance mechanism. CARB, by January 1, 2025, must develop standard methods for State agencies to track GHG emissions and reductions, carbon sequestration, and, where feasible, additional benefits from natural and working lands over time. CNRA, by January 1, 2025, in collaboration with CARB, CalEPA, and CDFA, must review and update the Climate Smart Strategy to achieve the targets and post data on its website on progress made toward targets, including on State expenditures made to implement the targets. Assembly Bill 1279 2022 The California Climate Crisis Act codifies the statewide carbon neutrality goal. It directs the State to achieve net zero GHG emissions as soon as possible, but no later than 2045, and to achieve and maintain net negative GHG emissions thereafter, and to ensure that by 2045, statewide anthropogenic GHG emissions are reduced to at least 85% below the 1990 levels. Senate Bill 596 2021 Requires CARB to establish a strategy to reduce GHG emissions in the concrete and cement sector by 40% from 2019 levels by 2030 and to achieve carbon neutrality as soon as possible, but no later than 2045. Senate Bill 27 2021 Creates the California Carbon Sequestration and Climate Resilience Project Registry in order to maintain a list of eligible but unfunded projects, which then may be funded by public or private entities in order to mitigate California’s GHG emissions and improve climate resilience. Also directs CARB to add carbon sequestration to the state’s climate projection efforts. Advanced Clean Trucks 2023 California Air Resources Board (CARB) adopted the Advanced Clean Trucks standards in August of 2022 accelerate a large- scale transition of zero-emission medium-and heavy-duty vehicles from Class 2b to Class 8. Key Climate Change Policy and Legislation Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 A -5 POLICY OR LEGISLATION DATE DESCRIPTION N-82-20 2020 The order directs state agencies to deploy a number of strategies to store carbon in the state’s natural and working lands and remove it from the atmosphere. The order also sets a first-in-the-nation goal to conserve 30 percent% of the state’s land and coastal water by 2030 (30x30) to fight species loss and ecosystem destruction. Directs state agencies to pursue innovative actions, strategies and partnerships to maximize the full climate benefits of natural and working land, through healthy soils management, including planting cover crops, hedgerows and compost applications; wetlands restoration to protect coastal areas; active forest management to reduce catastrophic risk and restore forest health; and boosting green infrastructure in urban areas like trees and parks. N-79-20 2020 Signed September 23, 2020. Identifies three zero- emissions goals: (1) 100% percent of in-state sales of new light-duty vehicles (i.e., passenger cars and trucks) will be zero-emission by 2035; (2) 100% percent of medium- and heavy-duty vehicles in the State be zero-emission by 2045 for all operations where feasible; and (3) the State will transition to 100% percent zero- emission off-road vehicles and equipment by 2035 where feasible. The order directs CARB to develop regulations and strategies to achieve these goals. CARB adopted regulations for light-duty vehicles in August 2022 through the Advanced Clean Cars II rulemaking process. Assembly Bill 2800 2020 Establishesd Climate-Safe Infrastructure Working Group for the purpose of examining how to integrate scientific data concerning projected climate change impacts into state infrastructure engineering. Senate Bill 743 2020 Amends the standards for determining negative environmental impacts from new development under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) from level of service (traffic congestion levels) to vehicles miles traveled (VMT). Senate Bill 1035 2018 Requires local planning agencies to review and, if necessary, revise the safety element upon each revision of the housing element or local hazard mitigation plan, not less than every 8 years, to identify new information relating to flood and fire hazards and climate adaptation and resiliency strategies. Allows cities and counties to identify new information relating to flood and fire hazards and climate adaptation and resiliency strategies that was not available during the previous revision of the safety element. Senate Bill 100 2018 100 Percent Clean Energy Act of 2018. Requires the state to purchase 100% percent of total retail sales of electricity from eligible renewable energy resources and zero-carbon resources by 2045. Appendix A A -6 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 POLICY OR LEGISLATION DATE DESCRIPTION B-55-18 2018 Signed September 10, 2018, sets a goal “to achieve carbon neutrality as soon as possible, and no later than 2045, and achieve and maintain net negative emissions thereafter.” Directs CARB to work with relevant state agencies to ensure future Scoping Plans identify and recommend measures to achieve the carbon neutrality goal. The goal of carbon neutrality by 2045 is in addition to other statewide goals, meaning not only should emissions be reduced to 80% percent below 1990 levels by 2050, but that, by no later than 2045, the remaining emissions should be offset by equivalent net removals of CO2e from the atmosphere, including through sequestration in forests, soils, and other natural landscapes. Assembly Bill 617 2017 Companion to Cap-and-Trade Extension. Establishes a groundbreaking program to measure and reduce air pollution from mobile and stationary sources at the neighborhood level in the communities most impacted by air pollutants. Requires the Air Resources Board to work closely with local air districts and communities to establish neighborhood air quality monitoring networks and to develop and implement plans to reduce emissions. The focus on community-based air monitoring and emission reductions will provide a national model for enhanced community protection. Assembly Bill 398 2017 Cap-and-Trade Extension. Extends and improves the Cap and Trade Program, which will enable the state to meet its 2030 emission reduction goals in the most cost-effective manner. Furthermore, extending the Cap-and-Trade Program will provide billions of dollars in auction proceeds to invest in communities across California. Senate Bill 1 2017 Transportation funding legislation that increases the state’s gasoline tax by $0.12 per gallon, raising over $5 billion per year for transportation projects including improvements in efficiency and emission reduction. Senate Bill 1383 2016 Short-Lived Climate Pollutants Strategy. Establishes statewide reduction targets for short-lived climate pollutants, including black carbon and methane (CH4). Black carbon is the light- absorbing component of fine particulate matter produced during incomplete combustion of fuels. SB 1383 requires the state board, no later than January 1, 2018, to approve and begin implementing a comprehensive strategy to reduce emissions of short-lived climate pollutants to achieve a reduction in methane by 40% percent, hydrofluorocarbon gases by 40% percent, and anthropogenic black carbon by 50% percent below 2013 levels by 2030. The bill also establishes targets for reducing organic waste in landfills. On March 14, 2017, CARB adopted the Short-Lived Climate Pollutant Key Climate Change Policy and Legislation Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 A -7 POLICY OR LEGISLATION DATE DESCRIPTION Reduction Strategy, which identifies the state’s approach to reducing anthropogenic and biogenic sources of short-lived climate pollutants. Anthropogenic sources of black carbon include on- and off-road transportation, residential wood burning, fuel combustion (charbroiling), and industrial processes. Assembly Bill 197 2016 Greenhouse gas regulations. Prioritizes direct emission reductions from large stationary sources and mobile sources. Senate Bill 32 2016 GHG emission reduction target for 2030. Establishes a statewide GHG emission reduction target of 40% percent below 1990 levels by 2030. B-30-15 2015 Executive Order B-30-15, signed April 29, 2015, sets a goal of reducing GHG emissions within the State to 40% percent of 1990 levels by year 2030. Executive Order B-30-15 also directs CARB to update the Scoping Plan to quantify the 2030 GHG reduction goal for the State and requires State agencies to implement measures to meet the interim 2030 goal as well as the long-term goal for 2050 in Executive Order S-03-05. Assembly Bill 1482 2015 Requires Natural Resources Agency, beginning July 1, 2017, and every 3 years thereafter, to update the state’s climate adaptation strategy. Requires state agencies to maximize specified objectives, including, among others, promoting the use of the climate adaptation strategy to inform planning decisions and ensure that state investments consider climate change impacts, as well as promote the use of natural systems and natural infrastructure, as defined, when developing physical infrastructure to address adaptation. Senate Bill 379 2015 Climate Adaptation and Resiliency Strategies. Requires cities and counties to include climate adaptation and resiliency strategies in the safety elements of their general plans. Cities and counties with an adopted local hazard mitigation plan prior to 2017, are to address climate change in the safety element of the general plan upon the next revisions or update of the local hazard mitigation plan. Cities and counties that do not have an adopted local hazard mitigation plan must update the safety element of the general plan to address climate adaptation and resiliency by January 1, 2022. The bill requires the climate adaptation update to include a set of goals, policies, and objectives based on a vulnerability assessment, as well as implementation measures, including the conservation and implementation of natural infrastructure that may be used in adaptation projects. Appendix A A -8 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 POLICY OR LEGISLATION DATE DESCRIPTION Senate Bill 350 2015 Clean Energy and Pollution Reduction Act of 2015. Establishes targets to increase retail sales of renewable electricity to 50% percent by 2030 and double the energy-efficiency savings in electricity and natural gas end uses by 2030. Assembly Bill 246 2015 Establishes the Integrated Climate Adaptation and Resiliency Program to be administered by the Office of Planning and Research to coordinate regional and local efforts with state climate adaptation strategies to adapt to the impacts of climate change, as specified. Also requires within one year of an update to the Safeguarding California Plan, the Office of Emergency Services, in coordination with the Natural Resources Agency, the Office of Planning and Research, and relevant public and private entities, to review and update, as necessary, the Adaptation Planning Guide, as specified. The bill establishes an advisory council to support the goals of the Office of Planning and Research and a clearinghouse for climate adaptation information. Senate Bill 605 2014 Short-lived climate pollutants. Requires CARB to complete a comprehensive strategy to reduce emissions of short-lived climate pollutants by January 1, 2016. Senate Bill 1826 2014 Organic Waste Diversion. Requires businesses to recycle their organic waste on and after April 1, 2016, depending on the amount of waste they generate per week. This law also requires that on and after January 1, 2016, local jurisdictions across the state implement an organic waste recycling program to divert organic waste generated by businesses and multifamily residential dwellings with five or more units. Organic waste means food waste, green waste, landscape and pruning waste, nonhazardous wood waste, and food-soiled paper waste that is mixed with food waste. Senate Bill 1275 2014 Charge Ahead California Initiative. Establishes a state goal of 1 million zero-emission and near-zero-emission vehicles in service by 2020. Amends the enhanced fleet modernization program to provide a mobility option. Establishes the Charge Ahead California Initiative requiring planning and reporting on vehicle incentive programs and increasing access to and benefits from zero-emission vehicles for disadvantaged, low-income, and moderate-income communities and consumers. Senate Bill 1204 2014 California Clean Truck, Bus, and Off-Road Vehicle and Equipment Technology Program. Creates the California Clean Truck, Bus, and Off-Road Vehicle and Equipment Technology Program funded by the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund for development, demonstration, precommercial pilot, and early commercial deployment of zero- and near-zero emission truck, Key Climate Change Policy and Legislation Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 A -9 POLICY OR LEGISLATION DATE DESCRIPTION bus, and off-road vehicle and equipment technologies, with priority given to projects benefiting disadvantaged communities. Assembly Bill 8 2013 Alternative fuel and vehicle technologies funding programs. Extends until January 1, 2024, extra fees on vehicle registrations, boat registrations, and tire sales in order to fund the AB 118, Carl Moyer, and AB 923 programs that support the production, distribution, and sale of alternative fuels and vehicle technologies and air emissions reduction efforts. The bill suspends until 2024 CARB’s regulation requiring gasoline refiners to provide hydrogen fueling stations and appropriates up to $220 million, of AB 118 money to create hydrogen fueling infrastructure in the state. Assembly Bill 1092 2013 Building standards for electric vehicle charging infrastructure. Requires the Building Standards Commission to adopt mandatory building standards for the installation of future electric vehicle charging infrastructure for parking spaces in multifamily dwellings and nonresidential development. Senate Bill 535 2012 Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund and Disadvantaged Communities. Requires the California Environmental Protection Agency to identify disadvantaged communities; requires that 25% of all funds allocated to the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund established by AB 32 go to projects that benefit disadvantaged communities, with at least 10% going to projects located within these communities. Requires the Department of Finance to include a description of how these requirements are fulfilled in an annual report. Assembly Bill 1532 2012 Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund in the Budget. Requires the Department of Finance to develop and submit to the Legislature an investment plan every three years for the use of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund; requires revenue collected pursuant to a market-based compliance mechanism to be appropriated in the Annual Budget Act; requires the department to report annually to the Legislature on the status of projects funded; and specifies that findings issued by the Governor related to “linkage” as part of a market-base compliance mechanism are not subject to judicial review. Senate Bill X1-2 2011 Directs the California Public Utilitiesy Commission’s (CPUC’s) Renewable Energy Resources Program to increase the amount of electricity generated from eligible renewable energy resources per year to an amount that equals at least 20% of the total electricity sold to retail customers in California per year by December 31, 2013, 25% by December 31, 2016 and 33% by December 31, 2020. In 2018, Senate Bill 100 was signed into law, which increases the RPS to 60% by 2030 and requires all the state’s electricity to come from carbon-free resources by Appendix A A -10 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 POLICY OR LEGISLATION DATE DESCRIPTION 2045 (see above). The new RPS goals appliesapply to all electricity retailers in the state including publicly owned utilities (POUs), investor-owned utilities, electricity service providers, and community choice aggregators. This new RPS preempts the California Air Resources Board’s 33% percent Renewable Electricity Standard. Assembly Bill 1504 2011 Requires Department of Forestry and Fire Protection and Air Resources Board to assess the capacity of its forest and rangeland regulations to meet or exceed the state’s greenhouse goals, pursuant to AB 32. Assembly Bill 341 2011 AB 341 (Chapter 476, Statutes of 2011) increasesd the statewide goal for waste diversion to 75% percent by 2020 and requires recycling of waste from commercial and multifamily residential land uses. Section 5.408 of CALGreen also requires that at least 65% percent of the nonhazardous construction and demolition waste from nonresidential construction operations be recycled and/or salvaged for reuse. Senate Bill X7-7 2010 20x20 Water Conservation Plan. Mandates urban water conservation and authorized the Department of Water Resources (DWR) to prepare a plan implementing urban water conservation requirements (20x2020 Water Conservation Plan). In addition, it requires agricultural water providers to prepare agricultural water management plans, measure water deliveries to customers, and implement other efficiency measures. SBX7-7 requires urban water providers to adopt a water conservation target of 20% percent reduction in urban per capita water use by 2020 compared to 2005 baseline use. Assembly Bill 2514 2010 Law Rrequiresing electric utilities to install minimum levels of grid-scale energy storage infrastructure. Senate Bill 375 2008 Requires CARB to develop regional GHG emission reduction targets for passenger vehicles. CARB established targets for 2020 and 2035 for each region covered by one of the State's 18 metropolitan planning organizations (MPO). CARB is required to update the targets for the MPOs every eight years. Assembly Bill 118 2007 Creates the Alternative and Renewable Fuel and Vehicle Technology Program, to be administered by the Energy Commission, to provide funding to public projects to develop and deploy innovative technologies that transform California's fuel and vehicle types to help attain the state's climate change policies. Senate Bill 97 2007 Directs Governor's Office of Planning and Research to develop CEQA guidelines "for the mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions or the effects of greenhouse gas emissions." Key Climate Change Policy and Legislation Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 A -11 POLICY OR LEGISLATION DATE DESCRIPTION Assembly Bill 1881 2006 The Water Conservation in Landscaping Act of 2006 requires local agencies to adopt the updated DWR model ordinance or an equivalent. Requires the CEC to consult with the DWR to adopt, by regulation, performance standards and labeling requirements for landscape irrigation equipment, including irrigation controllers, moisture sensors, emission devices, and valves to reduce the wasteful, uneconomic, inefficient, or unnecessary consumption of energy or water. Assembly Bill 1803 2006 GHG inventory transferred to Air Resources Board from the Energy Commission. Senate Bill 1 2006 California's Million Solar Roofs plan is enhanced by the CPUC and CEC's adoption of the California Solar Initiative. SB 1 directs CPUC and CEC to expand this program to more customers and requires the state's municipal utilities to create their own solar rebate programs. This bill would require, beginning January 1, 2011, a seller of new homes to offer the option of a solar energy system to all customers negotiating to purchase a new home constructed on land meeting certain criteria and to disclose certain information. Senate Bill 107 2006 Directs CPUC’s Renewable Energy Resources Program to increase the amount of renewable electricity (RPS) generated per year, from 17% to an amount that equals at least 20% of the total electricity sold to retail customers in California per year by December 31, 2010. Assembly Bill 32 2006 California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006. Requires CARB to adopt a statewide GHG emissions limit equivalent to the statewide GHG emissions levels in 1990 to be achieved by 2020. CARB shall adopt regulations to require the reporting and verification of statewide GHG emissions and to monitor and enforce compliance with this program. AB 32 directs Climate Action Team established by the Governor to coordinate the efforts set forth under Executive Order S-3-05 to continue its role in coordinating overall climate policy. Executive Order S- 03-05 2005 Signed June 1, 2005, set the following GHG reduction targets for the state: 2000 levels by 2010, 1990 levels by 2020, and 80% percent below 1990 levels by 2050. Senate Bill 1078 2002 Establishes the California RPS Program, which requires electric utilities and other entities under the jurisdiction of the CPUC to meet 20% of their renewable power by December 31, 2017, for the purposes of increasing the diversity, reliability, public health and environmental benefits of the energy mix. Appendix A A -12 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 POLICY OR LEGISLATION DATE DESCRIPTION Senate Bill 812 2002 Adds forest management practices to the California Climate Action Registry members' reportable emissions actions and directed the Registry to adopt forestry procedures and protocols to monitor, estimate, calculate, report and certify carbon stores and carbon dioxide emissions that resulted from the conservation-based management of forests in California. Assembly Bill 1493 2002 State law requiring the first set of GHG emission standards for passenger vehicles. Requires the registry, in consultation with CARB, to adopt procedures and protocols for the reporting and certification of reductions in GHG emissions from mobile sources for use by the state board in granting the emission reduction credits. This bill requires the state board to develop and adopt, by January 1, 2005, regulations that achieve the maximum feasible reduction of GHGs emitted by passenger vehicles and light-duty trucks. Senate Bill 527 2001 Revises the functions and duties of the California Climate Action Registry and requires the Registry, in coordination with CEC to adopt third-party verification metrics, developing GHG emissions protocols and qualifying third-party organizations to provide technical assistance and certification of emissions baselines and inventories. SB 527 amended SB 1771 to emphasize third-party verification. Senate Bill 1771 2000 Establishes the creation of the non-profit organization, the California Climate Action Registry and specifies functions and responsibilities to develop a process to identify and qualify third- party organizations approved to provide technical assistance and advice in monitoring GHG emissions and setting GHG emissions baselines in coordination with CEC. Also, the bill directs the Registry to enable participating entities to voluntarily record their annual GHG emissions inventories. Also, SB 1771 directs CEC to update the state's GHG inventory from an existing 1998 report and continuing to update it every five years. Assembly Bill 939 1989 California’s Integrated Waste Management Act of 1989, AB 939 (Public Resources Code §§ 40050 et seq.) sets a requirement for cities and counties throughout the state to divert 50% percent of all solid waste from landfills by January 1, 2000, through source reduction, recycling, and composting. In 2008, the requirements were modified to reflect a per capita requirement rather than tonnage. To help achieve this, the act requires that each city and county prepare and submit a source reduction and recycling element. AB 939 also established the goal for all California counties to provide at least 15 years of ongoing landfill capacity. Key Climate Change Policy and Legislation Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 A -13 POLICY OR LEGISLATION DATE DESCRIPTION Assembly Bill 4420 1988 Directs tThe CEC was statutorilyis directed to prepare and maintain the inventory of GHG emissions and to study the effects of GHGs and the climate change impacts on the state's energy supply and demand, economy, environment, agriculture, and water supplies. The study also required recommendations for avoiding, reducing, and addressing related impacts - and required the CEC to coordinate the study and any research with federal, state, academic, and industry research projects. Sources: Statewide Energy Efficiency Climate Collaborative Climate Action Plan 2.0 Template; University of California Berkeley Center for Law, Energy, and the Environment, California Climate Policy Dashboard; PlaceWorks, 2021. Appendix A A -14 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 This page intentionally left blank. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN APPENDIX B: TECHNICAL GHG APPENDIX Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -1 This appendix provides details for Contra Costa County’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions inventory and forecast in Chapter 3 of the 2024 Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) and the GHG emission reduction pathway presented in Chapter 4 of the 2024 CAAP. It summarizes the technical details and findings from these analyses as well as the data sources, assumptions, and performance metrics used to assess the potential for GHG savings from State and local existing and planned efforts and the reduction strategies associated with the CAAP. Inventory and Forecast As part of the preparation of the 2015 CAP, Contra Costa County and its regional partners and technical consultants prepared community-wide and County operations GHG inventories for the calendar years 2005 and 2013. The 2015 CAP identified the year 2005 as the baseline year for emission reductions, as this was considered a year with good data availability at the time, consistent with State guidance, and without any unusual factors that might affect GHG emissions. As part of the 2024 CAAP update process, the project teams prepared inventories of community-wide emissions for the years 2017 and 2019. County staff made some updates to the 2005 and 2013 community-wide inventories in the 2015 CAP to ensure a consistent method and approach across all inventory years. County staff have also prepared a County operations GHG emissions inventory for the year 2017. This document presents the full results of the Contra Costa County community-wide GHG inventory and the County operations inventory and is the most up-to-date summary of Contra Costa County’s GHG emissions. Appendix B B -2 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 PROTOCOLS A series of guidance documents, called protocols, provide recommendations on how to adequately assess GHG emissions. The project team prepared the new GHG inventories and updates to past GHG inventories consistent with the guidance in widely adopted, standard protocol documents. These protocols provide guidance on what activities should be evaluated in the GHG inventories and how emissions from those activities should be assessed. Using standard methods also allows for an easy comparison of GHG emission levels across multiple years and communities. • The County operations GHG inventory relies on the Local Government Operations Protocol (LGOP), which was first developed in 2008 and was updated in 2010. The LGOP is a tool for accounting and reporting GHG emissions of local government (municipal) operations and is used throughout California and the United States. The LGOP includes guidance from several existing programs as well as the state’s mandatory GHG reporting regulations. • The community-wide GHG inventory uses the United States Community Protocol for Accounting and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions (U.S. Community Protocol), which was first developed in 2012 and updated most recently in 2019. The California Governor’s Office of Planning and Research encourages cities and counties in California to follow the U.S. Community Protocol for community-wide GHG emissions. • A third protocol, the Global Protocol for Community-Scale Greenhouse Gas Inventories (Global Protocol) was first developed in 2014 and is intended for use in preparing international community-scale GHG inventories. It is largely consistent with the U.S. Community Protocol, although it contains additional guidance and resources to support a wider range of activities that may be found in other countries. The project team has used the Global Protocol to assess GHG emissions from sources that are not covered in the U.S. Community Protocol. GHG inventories are estimates of GHG emissions based on these standard methods and verified datasets. While they are not direct measurements of GHG emissions, the use of the standard methods identified in the protocols, in combination with accurate data from appropriate sources, allows GHG inventories to provide reliable estimates of local emission levels. Due to potential data limitations, some inconsistencies in methods may remain. Any concerns about inconsistent methods are noted in the appropriate sector discussion. Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -3 UNITS OF MEASUREMENT GHG inventories and forecasts assess emissions in a unit called carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e), which is a combined unit of all GHGs analyzed in the inventory. As different GHGs have different effects on the processes that drive climate change, CO2e is a weighted unit that reflects the relative potency of the different GHGs. These inventories report amounts of GHGs in metric tons of CO2e (MTCO2e), equal to 1,000 kilograms or approximately 2,205 pounds. EMISSION FACTORS An emission factor describes how many MTCO2e are released per unit of an activity. For instance, an emission factor for electricity describes the MTCO2e produced per kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity used. Since different sources of electricity can have different emission factors, the emission factors in Table B-1 represent a weighted average of emission factors across electricity sources and portfolios (e.g. MCE’s Light Green and Deep Green products). The emission factor for on-road transportation describes the MTCO2e produced per mile of driving. The project team calculated most of the GHG emissions using data on GHG-generating activities in combination with emission factors. Some sources of GHG emissions (known as sectors), including agriculture and off-road emissions, are calculated using formulae or models and do not have specific emission factors. Table B-1 shows the emission factors for the inventory years for the unincorporated area. Appendix B B -4 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 TABLE B-1: GHG INVENTORY EMISSION FACTORS, 2005–2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE SOURCE PG&E electricity (MTCO2e/kWh) 0.000226 0.000195 0.000096 0.000108 -52% PG&E Direct access electricity (MTCO2e/ kWh) 0.000388 0.000309 0.000208 0.000187 -52% California Energy Commission MCE electricity (MTCO2e/ kWh) N/A N/A 0.000059 0.000045 -24% * MCE Natural gas (MTCO2e/therm) 0.005311 0.005311 0.005311 0.005311 0% US Community Protocol Propane (MTCO2e/gallon) 0.005844 0.005844 0.005844 0.005844 0% US Community Protocol Kerosene (MTCO2e/gallon) 0.010569 0.010569 0.010569 0.010569 0% US Community Protocol Wood (MTCO2e/MMBTU) 0.095624 0.095624 0.095624 0.095624 0% US Community Protocol On-road vehicles (MTCO2e/VMT) 0.000486 0.000483 0.000421 0.000408 -16% California Air Resources Board BART (MTCO2e/ passenger mile) 0.000093 0.000093 0.000093 0.000013 -86% BART Municipal solid waste (MTCO2e/ton) 0.293179 0.293184 0.286047 0.261659 -11% CalRecycle Alternative daily cover (MTCO2e/ton) 0.191850 0.245890 0.245694 0.245693 28% CalRecycle * MCE’s percentage change is from 2017 to 2019. Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -5 COMMUNITY-WIDE EMISSIONS Sectors The community-wide GHG inventory assessed GHG emissions from the following 11 categories of activities, known as sectors. • Transportation includes GHG emissions created by driving on-road vehicles in the unincorporated county, including passenger and freight vehicles. • Residential energy includes GHG emissions attributed to the use of electricity, natural gas, and other home heating fuels in residential buildings. • Solid waste includes the GHG emissions released from trash collected in the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County, as well as collective annual emissions from waste already in place at the Acme, Keller Canyon, and West Contra Costa Landfills. • Nonresidential energy includes GHG emissions attributed to the use of electricity and natural gas in nonresidential buildings. • Agriculture includes GHG emissions from various agricultural activities in the unincorporated county, including agricultural equipment, crop cultivation and harvesting, fertilizer application, and livestock operations. • Off-road equipment includes GHG emissions from equipment that does not provide on-road transportation (excluding agricultural equipment), such as tractors for construction, or equipment used for landscape maintenance, commercial and industrial equipment, and outdoor recreational equipment. • Water and wastewater accounts for the electricity used to transport and process water and wastewater used or generated by unincorporated county residents and businesses, as well as direct emissions resulting from wastewater treatment activities. • Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) includes GHG emissions associated with the operation of BART for unincorporated county residents. Appendix B B -6 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 • Land use and sequestration includes GHG emissions absorbed and stored in trees and soils on locally controlled lands as part of healthy ecosystems and released into the atmosphere from development of previously undeveloped land. • Stationary sources are emissions from fuel use at major industrial facilities, permitted by state and regional air quality authorities. These emissions are informational and are not counted as part of the community total. • Wildfire includes emissions released as a result of wildfires. These emissions are informational and are not counted as part of the community total. • Direct access electricity is electricity purchased directly from an Electric Service Provider (ESP) rather than a conventional utility company or Community Choice Energy provider such as MCE, generally to power large industrial, commercial, and institutional facilities. Community-Wide Inventory Results Table B-2 show the community-wide GHG emissions for the unincorporated area associated for the four inventory years. Total community-wide emissions declined 22 percent from 2005 to 2019. The most significant decreases in emissions came from BART, water and wastewater, residential energy use, and transportation, which all saw their associated emissions decrease by more than 25 percent. Only off-road equipment saw a significant (58 percent) increase in associated GHG emissions. Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -7 TABLE B-2: ABSOLUTE ANNUAL GHG EMISSIONS, 2005–2019 (MTCO2E) SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005 - 2019 Transportation 628,200 651,130 571,650 464,040 -26% Residential energy 294,930 280,870 212,420 191,780 -35% Nonresidential energy 118,740 125,350 98,8501 85,390 -28% Solid waste 243,940 224,570 223,100 220,760 -10% Agriculture 33,350 39,300 44,880 36,130 8% Off-road equipment 34,160 36,290 42,840 54,010 58% Water and wastewater 8,080 7,400 4,400 4,870 -40% BART 1,040 1,320 1,440 190 -82% Land use and sequestration -70,860 -70,860 -70,860 -70,860 0% Total Annual MTCO2e 1,291,580 1,295,370 1,128,720 986,310 -24% Informational Items Stationary sources 13,983,030 11,956,000 11,232,290 10,867,670 -22% Wildfire 14,270 66,080 02* 10,100 N/A3 Direct access electricity 04 04 04 74,130 N/A Note: All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. 1 Estimates of nonresidential electricity use in 2013 are used in 2017 to account for a lack of available data in 2017. 2 No wildfires were recorded in the unincorporated county in 2017. 3 Overall change between 2005 and 2019 for wildfire is not calculated because of the high degree of year-to-year variability. 4 PG&E did not provide direct access electricity use data in these years.All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. *No wildfires were recorded within the unincorporated County in 2017. Regarding stationary sources, there are several factors outside of the County’s control that influence the operations and related emissions and energy use at these facilities. The County has therefore elected to exclude the direct emissins and energy use at these facilities from consideration of the County’s GHG reduction goals for the following reasons: • These facilities are regulated primarily through the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and the California Energy Commission (CEC), and are subject to air quality and emissions standards set forth by USEPA, CARB, and BAAQMD. ▪ The energy used at some of these facilities fluctuates from year to year depending on the demand for resources and the availability of other electricity-generating sources such as hydropower or renewable resources. This makes it difficult to accurately forecast the energy use at these facilities. Appendix B B -8 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 ▪ The County has limited jurisdictional authority to reduce GHG emissions from these sources as they are subject to cap-and-trade regulations set forth by CARB. ▪ The approach to excluding energy from sources that are outside of the County’s jurisdictional control is consistent with the U.S. Community Protocol for Accounting and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions. The resultant jurisdictional inventory more accurately reflects the energy use from nonresidential customers in unincorporated Contra Costa County and allows the County to focus on actions that are within its control. Contra Costa County is developing a Just Transition Economic Revitalization Plan, a long- term strategic plan for transitioning to a net zero-emission economy. COMMUNITY-WIDE GHG INVENTORY RESULTS BY SECTOR Transportation On-road transportation activity accounts for vehicle miles driven between two points in the unincorporated area, or between the unincorporated area or another community. It does not include miles for trips that begin and end in other communities but pass through the unincorporated area (e.g., from Sacramento to Oakland). Unincorporated Contra Costa County community members drove approximately 1.3 billion vehicle miles in 2005, decreasing 12 percent to approximately 1.1 billion vehicle miles in 2019. The VMT in 2005 resulted in GHG emissions of approximately 628,200 MTCO2e, which dropped to approximately 464,040 in 2019, a 26-percent decrease. GHG emissions decreased due to this reduction in VMT, increasingly fuel-efficient vehicles, and a wider adoption of electric vehicles. The average vehicle on the road in unincorporated Contra Costa County generated 16 percent fewer GHG emissions per mile in 2019 than in 2005, as reported by Caltrans. Table B-3 provides a breakdown of the activity data and emissions for on-road transportation for the unincorporated area by each individual year included in the updated community inventory. Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -9 TABLE B-3: TRANSPORTATION ACTIVITY DATA AND GHG EMISSIONS, 2005–2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005 - 2019 Activity Data (VMT) On-road transportation 1,291,819,230 1,349,279,980 1,357,121,160 1,136,911,090 -12% Emissions (MTCO2e) On-road transportation 628,200 651,130 571,650 464,040 -26% All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Residential Energy Contra Costa County’s GHG emissions from residential energy totaled approximately 191,780 MTCO2e in 2019, compared to 294,930 MTCO2e in 2005, a decline of 35 percent. Residential electricity GHG emissions decreased due to a decrease in overall use and usage of cleaner sources of electricity. Residential electricity use fell 40 percent from 2005 to 2019, from 488,236,740 kWh to 293,561,300 kWh. Over this period, as seen in Table B-1, a unit of electricity supplied by Pacific Gas and Electricity Company (PG&E) emitted 52 percent less GHG in 2019 than in 2005. Electricity from MCE, which supplied electricity to community residents in 2017 and 2019, generated even fewer GHG emissions per unit of electricity than PG&E-supplied electricity, which has also contributed to the decline in this sector. Natural gas use and GHG emissions saw a small decrease from 2005 to 2019 of 3 percent despite a growing population. Propane and wood use and GHG emissions also declined over this period, although GHG emissions from these fuels are only a small proportion of those from the residential energy sector. Table B-4 provides a breakdown of the activity data and GHG emissions for residential energy for the unincorporated area. Appendix B B -10 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 TABLE B-4: RESIDENTIAL ENERGY ACTIVITY DATA AND GHG EMISSIONS BY SUBSECTOR, 2005–2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005 - 2019 Activity Data Residential PG&E electricity (kWh) 488,236,740 478,219,710 461,970,670 46,158,330 -91% Residential MCE electricity (kWh) - - 307,820 247,402,970 80,273%* Residential natural gas (therms) 30,919,160 31,007,110 28,634,420 30,100,640 -3% Residential propane (gallons) 1,525,330 1,106,900 1,043,270 1,021,340 -33% Residential kerosene (gallons) 13,160 10,960 8,030 16,320 24% Residential wood (MMBTU) 117,000 165,830 100,960 101,710 -13% Emissions (MTCO2e) Residential PG&E electricity 110,120 93,380 44,510 5,000 -95% Residential MCE electricity 0 0 20 11,060 55,200%* Residential natural gas 164,570 165,040 152,060 159,850 -3% Residential propane 8,910 6,470 6,100 5,970 -33% Residential kerosene 140 120 80 170 21% Residential wood 11,190 15,860 9,650 9,730 -13% Total Annual MTCO2e 294,930 280,870 212,420 191,780 -35% * MCE did not operate in the unincorporated County until 2017, and 2017 operations were very limited. MCE percentage changes are for changes from 2017 to 2019. All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. Solid Waste Contra Costa County’s community-wide GHG emissions associated with solid waste includes four subsectors. • Municipal solid waste (MSW) is the material that is discarded by community members and reflects the actual waste generated by the community. • Alternative daily cover (ADC) is organic material applied at landfills by the landfill operator as a means of controlling debris and pests. Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -11 • Waste in place is the solid waste and associated GHG emissions deposited in the County’s landfills in previous years. • The flaring subsector accounts for GHG emissions from the combustion of gases generated by the decomposing waste. Between 2005 and 2019, total solid waste GHG emissions decreased by 10 percent due to decreases in solid waste generated and ADC applied, likely as a result of increased community awareness about recycling and composting and the availability of curbside recycling programs. Although annual waste generation decreased, waste in place at the landfills increased as waste is added to the landfills each year. Table B-5 presents solid waste emissions data for each year for the unincorporated area. TABLE B-5: SOLID WASTE ACTIVITY DATA AND GHG EMISSIONS BY SUBSECTOR, 2005–2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005 – 2019 Activity Data (Tons) Solid waste 154,820 78,790 79,520 79,340 -49% ADC 15,950 13,990 11,470 7,580 -52% Waste in place 34,455,010 41,785,650 45,776,140 47,618,290 38% Landfill flaring 5,270 5,260 5,250 5,270 Less than 1% Emissions (MTCO2e) Solid waste 45,390 23,100 22,750 20,760 -54% ADC 3,060 3,440 2,820 1,860 -39% Waste in place 193,950 196,500 196,000 196,610 1% Landfill flaring 1,540 1,530 13,550 13,590 -1% Total Annual MTCO2e 243,940 224,570 235,120 232,820 -10% All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. Nonresidential Energy Contra Costa County’s GHG emissions from nonresidential energy totaled approximately 85,390159,520 MTCO2e in 2019, compared to 118,740 MTCO2e in 2005, an decreaseincrease of 2834 percent. Electricity emissions from retail electricity suppliers (PG&E and MCE) have fallen significantly, driven by a small decrease in electricity use and a large increase in the amount of electricity for renewable and carbon-free sources (see Table B-1). Between 2005 and 2019, nonresidential electricity obtained from PG&E Appendix B B -12 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 decreased by 90 percent and nonresidential electricity obtained from MCE increased from virtually nothing in 2017 to approximately 200 million kWh in 2019. Natural gas use and associated emissions have reportedly increased, although this may be less of an actual increase and more so the result of data being omitted by PG&E as a way of complying with Sstate privacy regulations. As a consequence of this, the project team has kept nonresidential natural gas use constant at 2013 levels, a conservative estimate that may not account for actual decreases in this subsector. Similarly, direct access electricity (electricity purchased from third parties instead of PG&E or MCE, usually by large customers such as major industrial facilities) was only reported for 2019, although this electricity use likely occurred in previous years but was not reported due to privacy regulations. Table B-6 provides a breakdown of the activity data and GHG emissions for nonresidential energy for the unincorporated area. Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -13 TABLE B-6: NONRESIDENTIAL ENERGY ACTIVITY DATA AND GHG EMISSIONS BY SUBSECTOR, 2005–2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005–2019 Activity Data Nonresidential PG&E Electricity (kWh) 1 284,558,070 266,216,660 266,216,660 29,062,250 -90% Nonresidential MCE electricity (kWh) 2 0 0 28,730 200,181,720 696,669% Nonresidential Direct Access electricity (kWh) 3 0 0 0 396,805,940 N/A Nonresidential natural gas (therms) 4 10,251,360 13,784,410 13,784,410 13,784,410 -58% Emissions (MTCO2e) Nonresidential PG&E electricity 1 64,180 51,980 25,650 3,150 -95% Nonresidential MCE electricity 2 0 0 Less than 10 9,040 451,900% Nonresidential Direct Access electricity 3 0 0 0 74,130 N/A Nonresidential natural gas 34 54,560 73,370 73,200 73,200 34% Total Annual MTCO2e 118,740 125,350 98,850 85,390 34% 1: Due to omissions in data reported by PG&E for the calendar year 2017, the project team assumed that electricity use remained constant from 2013 levels. 2: MCE did not operate in the unincorporated County until 2017, and 2017 operations were very limited. MCE percentage changes are for changes from 2017 to 2019. 3: Direct access electricity was only reported for 2019. As PG&E also reports MCE-supplied electricity as Direct Access, the numbers given in this table are the electricity use after MCE data are removed. 34: Due to omissions in data reported by PG&E for the calendar years 2017 and 2019, the project team assumed that natural gas use remained constant from 2013 levels. All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. Agricultural Emissions GHG emissions associated with the agriculture sector for the unincorporated area increased by approximately 8 percent between 2005 and 2019, as shown in Table B-7. This increase is due primarily to a minor increase (5 percent) in the amount of cattle in the county. Although crop acreages declined from 2005 to 2019, more fertilizer was applied in Appendix B B -14 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 2019 than in 2005 due to a shift in the types of crops being grown that required slightly more fertilizer. TABLE B-7: AGRICULTURE ACTIVITY DATA AND GHG EMISSIONS BY SUBSECTOR, 2005– 2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005–2019 Activity Data Crops (acreage) 200,980 204,031 197,360 183,730 -9% Nitrogen applied (pounds) 3,261,620 3,560,480 3,698,500 3,608,340 11% Livestock (effective annual population) 16,500 19,110 22,060 17,340 5% Emissions (MTCO2e) Crops 3,920 4,280 4,450 4,340 11% Enteric fermentation 28,510 33,920 39,160 30,790 8% Manure management 920 1,100 1,270 1,000 9% Total Annual MTCO2e 33,350 39,300 44,880 36,130 8% All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. Off-Road Equipment Emissions According to data shown in Table B-8, emissions from off-road equipment in unincorporated Contra Costa County increased approximately 73 percent between 2005 and 2019, although the sector overall remains a small proportion of the total community- wide emissions. This increase is primarily the result of a significant rise in diesel tractor and other agricultural equipment use over this period, along with increases in commercial and industrial/warehouse equipment use. Since this is modeling directly reported by State agencies, it is possible that changes in modeling methods may be affecting the results. Note that the State provides these GHG emission levels directly, so there is no activity data to display. Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -15 TABLE B-8: OFF-ROAD EQUIPMENT GHG EMISSIONS BY SUBSECTOR, 2005–2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005 – 2019 Agricultural equipment 1,200 1,190 1,180 10,170 748% Cargo handling equipment 900 380 330 310 -66% Commercial harbor equipment * 0 0 0 2,600 N/A Construction and mining equipment 6,780 7,170 8,880 7,200 6% Industrial equipment 8,320 8,840 9,470 9,780 18% Lawn and garden equipment 3,580 3,280 3,760 3,880 8% Light commercial equipment 2,230 2,780 3,060 3,270 47% Locomotives 3,170 3,260 3,540 3,620 14% Oil drilling equipment 20 20 20 20 0% Pleasure craft 1,890 1,810 1,800 1,830 -3% Portable equipment 4,830 6,240 6,700 6,970 44% Recreational equipment 650 670 610 630 -3% Transport Refrigeration Units 590 650 3,490 3,730 532% Total Annual MTCO2e 34,160 36,290 42,840 54,010 58% * State modeling only provided emissions for commercial harbor equipment for 2019. All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. According to records maintained by the California Department of Conservation’s Geologic Energy Management Division, there are no active oil or gas extraction wells in the unincorporated area. There are 16 natural gas storage wells in the hills between Clyde and Bay Point, along with an observation well. As these sites are not being used for active extraction, there are no further emissions associated with fossil fuel production at well sites in this inventory. Water and Wastewater Emissions Emissions associated with the water and wastewater sector are counted as indirect or direct emissions. Indirect water emissions refer to emissions created by the electricity required to treat and move water to where it is used. Indirect wastewater emissions refer to electricity needed to move wastewater to water treatment facilities, and to process and discharge it. Direct wastewater emissions refer to emissions produced directly by decomposing materials in wastewater. Appendix B B -16 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 GHG emissions from Contra Costa County’s water and wastewater activity decreased 40 percent between 2005 and 2019. Indirect water GHG emissions declined by 62 percent between 2005 and 2019 while indirect wastewater GHG emissions decreased by 66 percent. Community members used substantially less water (31 percent less) and generated less wastewater (30 percent less) in 2019 than in 2005 despite population growth. This is likely a result of increased water efficiency by community residents and businesses. Additionally, the electricity used in water and wastewater pumping and treatment has been increasingly supplied by renewable and carbon-free sources, decreasing GHG emissions. Direct wastewater emissions did rise by approximately 199 percent from 2005 to 2019, but given that the amount of wastewater generated declined by this period, this is likely due to changes in modeling approaches and available data. The emissions data for the unincorporated area in Table B-9 shows that overall emissions increased slightly within the water and wastewater sector. TABLE B-9: WATER AND WASTEWATER ACTIVITY DATA AND GHG EMISSIONS BY SUBSECTOR, 2005–2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005 – 2019 Activity Data Water use (million gallons) 11,530 11,650 7,380 8,010 -31% Water electricity use (kWh) 26,443,770 28,004,290 19,137,620 20,783,930 -21% Wastewater generation (million gallons) 4,560 4,610 3,150 3,170 -30% Wastewater electricity use (kWh) 6,199,120 6,198,590 4,268,050 4,295,780 -31% Emissions (MTCO2e) Indirect water 5,960 5,470 1,840 2,250 -62% Indirect wastewater 1,400 1,210 410 470 -66% Direct wastewater 720 720 2,150 2,150 199% Total Annual MTCO2e 8,080 7,400 4,400 4,870 -40% All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -17 BART Emissions Emissions associated with BART ridership decreased 82 percent between 2005 and 2019. This decline is attributable to changes in BART’s electricity portfolio, which in recent years have shifted to favor more renewable and carbon-free sources of energy. BART ridership from community members in unincorporated Contra Costa County increased 29 percent between 2005 and 2019, as shown in Table B-10. Ridership at all stations serving the unincorporated area increased by 10 to 35 percent over this period except for Pittsburg/Bay Point, which saw some of its ridership shift to Pittsburg Center and Antioch with the opening of the BART to Antioch extension in 2018. TABLE B-10: BART ACTIVITY DATA AND GHG EMISSIONS, 2005–2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005–2019 Activity Data BART Ridership (passenger miles) 11,231,870 14,228,420 15,528,840 14,444,740 29% Emissions (MTCO2e) Total Annual MTCO2e 1,040 1,320 1,440 190 -82% All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. Land Use and Sequestration GHG emissions from land use and sequestration can be either positive (a source of emissions) or negative (removing emissions from the atmosphere, creating what is known as an emissions “sink”). Natural lands and trees in urban areas absorb carbon, storing it in wood, plants, and soil. As a result, when natural land is preserved or when more trees are planted, emissions from this sector are negative because GHGs are being removed from the atmosphere. However, developing natural lands or converting them to a different form (for example, replacing forests with crop land) or removing street trees causes carbon to be released, creating GHG emissions. This sector includes emission sources and sinks from three types of activities: sequestration of GHG emissions in locally controlled forested lands, sequestration of GHG emissions in street trees in urbanized unincorporated areas, and emissions caused by permanently removing vegetation from natural lands or farmlands as a part of development. Appendix B B -18 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Emissions and sequestered amounts remained constant in both years for all three activities. Locally-controlled forests and urban trees have not had their sequestration capabilities changed by human activities during the inventory period. While there was some development activity that caused a loss of sequestered GHG emissions, records of when the development specifically occurred are not available, and so the GHG emissions have been assigned equally to both inventory years, hence the lack of changes. Forests sequestered 58,110 MTCO2e annually, while urban trees sequestered 12,750 MTCO2e, for a total carbon sink of 70,860 MTCO2e for the unincorporated area, as shown in Table B-11. TABLE B-11: LAND USE AND SEQUESTRATION ACTIVITY DATA AND GHG EMISSIONS, 2005–2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005 – 2019 Activity Data Acres of forested land 60,050 60,050 60,050 60,050 0% Acres of urban trees 32,780 32,780 32,780 32,780 0% Acres of land use changes 0 0 0 0 0% Emissions (MTCO2e) Forest sequestration -58,110 -58,110 -58,110 -58,110 0% Street tree sequestration -12,750 -12,750 -12,750 -12,750 0% Land use changes 0 0 0 0 0% Total Annual MTCO2e -70,860 -70,860 -70,860 -70,860 0% All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. Wildfire Wildfires create GHG emissions by burning organic materials such as trees and plants, releasing the carbon sequestered in these materials. Larger fires and those that burn through forested areas, as opposed to less densely vegetated ecosystems, release more GHG emissions. The County reported wildfires in the unincorporated area in 2005, 2013, and 2019, but not in 2017. The acreages and emissions of these fires for the unincorporated area are reported in Table B-12. Although wildfire emissions and acreages were lower in 2019 than in 2005, wildfire activity varies widely from year to year, and is generally expected to increase in future years due to climate change. Wildfire emissions are not calculated in the totals presented in this appendix and are for informational purposes only. Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -19 TABLE B-12: WILDFIRE ACTIVITY DATA AND GHG EMISSIONS, 2005–2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005–2019 Activity Data Acres burned 2,070 6,320 0 1,830 -31% Emissions (MTCO2e) Total Annual MTCO2e 14,270 66,080 0 10,100 -29% 2005 wildfires: Bragdon Fire, BNSF Fire, Byron Fire, Vasco Airport Fire, and an unnamed fire south of Antioch. 2013 wildfires: Kirker Fire and Morgan Fire. 2019 wildfires: Marsh 3 Fire, Marsh 5 Fire, Marsh 6 Fire. All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. Stationary Source Emissions Stationary source emissions result from fuel use, such as natural gas or propane, at large industrial facilities. These facilities include refineries, power plants, factories, and similar installations. Natural gas use at these facilities may be included as part of the nonresidential natural gas use reported by PG&E. These facilities are regulated by the State and BAAQMD, and the County does not have direct control over their operations. Emissions from these facilities are therefore not counted toward the County’s total GHG emissions. Table B-13 shows the emissions from stationary sources for the unincorporated area. This information is directly reported by the California Air Resources Board as total emissions. The Board does not report activity data for stationary sources, which would include amounts of fuel burned at these facilities. These emissions are not included in the totals presented in this memorandum and are for informational purposes only. TABLE B-13: STATIONARY SOURCE GHG EMISSIONS, 2005–2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005–2019 Emissions (MTCO2e) Total Annual MTCO2e 13,983,030 11,956,000 11,232,290 10,867,670 -22% All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. Appendix B B -20 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Direct Access Electricity Emissions PG&E provided direct access electricity data only for 2019. In 2019, Contra Costa County direct access electricity customers used 396, 805, 940 kWh of electricity, producing 74,130 MTCO2e of emissions. Direct access electricty, supplied by an ESP to large nonresidential customers, is regulated by the California Public Utilities Commission. The identities of direct access customers and the specific ESPs from which they purchase electricity are not made available to the public. Given the County’s limited ability to monitor and regulate the sale and use of direct access electricity, as well as historical inconsistences in how direct access electricity use is reported, direct access emissions are reported for informational purposes only. COUNTY OPERATIONS EMISSIONS Sectors The County operations inventory looks at GHG emissions from the following sectors: • Employee commute includes GHG emissions from County employees commuting to and from work, as well as emissions associated with business travel. • Buildings and facilities includes the electricity and natural gas use at County-owned facilities. • Government fleet includes the fuel-use from County-owned vehicles. • Government-generated solid waste includes the waste materials generated at County facilities. • Public lighting includes the electricity use for publicly owned lights, including streetlights and traffic signals. • Water and wastewater includes emissions associated with water use and wastewater generation at County facilities. • Refrigerants includes the leaks of GHGs from air conditioning systems in County- owned vehicles and buildings. Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -21 County Operations Inventory Results In 2006, Contra Costa County government operations emissions totaled 54,090 MTCO2e for the sectors reported in this inventory, as shown in Table B-14. In 2017, County government operations GHG emissions were 43,380 MTCO2e, a 20 percent decrease from 2006 levels. This decrease is primarily the result of reductions in energy use, reductions in County fleet emissions, and reductions in employee waste disposal. The 2017 inventory also includes emissions from wastewater treatment and refrigerants, which were not included in the 2006 inventory. TABLE B-14: 2006 BASELINE AND 2017 COUNTY-OPERATIONS GHG EMISSIONS SUMMARY SECTOR 2006 GHG EMISSIONS (MTCO2E) 2017 GHG EMISSIONS (MTCO2E) PERCENTAGE CHANGE Employee commute 23,530 25,800 10% Buildings and facilities 19,260 12,500 -35% Government fleet 8,500 3,430 -60% Government-generated solid waste 1,980 900 -54% Public lighting 830 440 -47% Water and wastewater Not included 220 — Refrigerants Not included 90 — Total 54,090 43,380 -20% These inventories assume 8,420 County employees in 2006 and 10,030 employees in 2017, a 19% increase. Note: All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not add up to the sum of individual rows due to rounding. COUNTY OPERATIONS GHG INVENTORY RESULTS BY SECTOR Employee Commute and Travel Tables B-15 and B-16 summarize changes in 2006 and 2017 related to employee commute activities. TABLE B-15: 2006 BASELINE AND 2017 EMPLOYEE COMMUTE AND TRAVEL EMISSIONS ACTIVITY/SOURCE 2006 MTCO2E 2017 MTCO2E PERCENTAFE CHANGE Employee commute 23,530 25,800 10% Appendix B B -22 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 TABLE B-16: 2017 EMPLOYEE COMMUTE ACTIVITY DATA AND GHG EMISSIONS ACTIVITY/SOURCE ACTIVITY DATA UNITS GHG EMISSIONS (MTCO2E) PERCENTAGE Driving alone (gas) 77,173,500 Vehicle miles 24,600 95% Driving alone (electric) 4,494,570 Vehicle miles 0 0% Carpool 1,155,500 Passenger miles 350 1% Transit (BART, bus) 641,830 Passenger miles 100 Less than 1% Motorcycle 425,050 Vehicle miles 749 3% Active transportation (walk, bike) 66,590 Miles 0 0% Telecommute 88,816 Miles 0 0% Total 84,045,860 Miles 25,800 100% Note: All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not add up to the sum of individual rows due to rounding. Although employees’ personal commute is not under the direct operational control of the County, there are a variety of tools and resources available to influence employees’ commute patterns. For this reason, emissions are included in this inventory. Employee commute accounted for in the emissions inventory includes business travel; travel via personal vehicles; carpool; alternative transportation methods, including biking and walking; air travel; and public transit. In 2017, County employees’ commute to work contributed to 25,795 MTCO2e. This is a 10 percent increase in GHG emissions from the 23,530 MTCO2e reported in 2006. Over the years, there was an increase in the number of employees from 8,420 to 10,030 between 2006 and 2017. Commute emissions reflect increased vehicle fuel efficiency, although changes in the number of employees and increases in commute distance balance that out. Buildings and Facilities The buildings and facilities sector includes electricity and natural gas use at County-owned and operated buildings and facilities. Emissions from this sector totaled 19,210 MTCO2e in 2006 and 12,500 MTCO2e in 2017 (see Table B-17), a 35 percent decrease. Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -23 TABLE B-17: 2006 BASELINE AND 2017 BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES ENERGY USE EMISSIONS SUBSECTOR 2006 MTCO2E 2017 MTCO2E PERCENTAGE CHANGE Buildings and facilities – natural gas 11,360 6,300 -44% Buildings and facilities – electricity 7,670 6,200 -19% Total 19,030 12,500 -35% Note: All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not add up to the sum of individual rows due to rounding. Government (County) Fleet The vehicles and equipment used in the County’s daily operations burn gasoline, diesel, propane, and compressed natural gas fuel, resulting in the emission of GHGs. Contra Costa’s 2017 vehicle fleet emissions totaled 3,430 MTCO2e (see Table B-18). This is a 59-percent decrease in GHG emissions from the 8,500 MTCO2e in the 2006 inventory. This is primarily the result of a decrease in on-road vehicle miles traveled and an increase in fuel efficiency between inventory years. TABLE B-18: 2006 BASELINE AND 2017 VEHICLE FLEET EMISSIONS SECTOR 2006 MTCO2E 2017 MTCO2E PERCENTAGE CHANGE Government fleet 8,500 3,430 -59% Solid Waste County operations generates solid waste during normal activity, much of which is eventually landfilled. Emissions from this sector are estimates of methane generation that will result in future years from the waste that was sent to the landfill in the inventory year. Solid waste generated by County employees contributed to a total of 900 MTCO2e in year 2017 (see Table B-19). Solid waste collected from County operations saw a reduction of 54 percent in emissions since the 2006 baseline, where this sector contributed to 1,980 MTCO2e. TABLE B-19: 2006 BASELINE AND 2017 GOVERNMENT-GENERATED SOLID WASTE SECTOR 2006 MTCO2E 2017 MTCO2E PERCENTAGE CHANGE Government-generated solid waste 1,980 900 -54% Appendix B B -24 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Public Lighting Emissions from public lighting owned by the County, such as streetlights, totaled 440 MTCO2e in 2017 (see Table B-20). This is a 47-percent decrease from the 830 MTCO2e reported in 2006. TABLE B-20: 2006 BASELINE AND 2017 PUBLIC LIGHTING SECTOR 2006 MTCO2E 2017 MTCO2E PERCENTAGE CHANGE Public lighting 830 440 -47% Water and Wastewater The water and wastewater treatment sector includes the emissions generated by the electricity needed to move and process the water used and the wastewater generated by County government facilities (indirect water and wastewater), along with direct emissions caused by the processing of County-generated wastewater. Water use and wastewater generation at County facilities generated a total of 220 MTCO2e in 2017 (see Table B-21). The water and wastewater sector was not included in the 2006 baseline inventory. TABLE B-21: 2006 BASELINE AND 2017 WASTEWATER TREATMENT SECTOR 2006 MTCO2E 2017 MTCO2E Indirect Water Not included 180 Indirect Wastewater Not included 20 Direct Wastewater Not included 20 Total Not included 240 Note: All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not add up to the sum of individual rows due to rounding. Refrigerants Vehicles and buildings with air conditioning use refrigerants that can leak from engines and appliances during normal operation and maintenance. These refrigerants are often GHGs that trap a very large amount of heat per unit of gas, known as gases with a very high global warming potential (GWP). Emissions from refrigerant leaks were accounted for in the 2017 GHG emissions inventory for County government operations. This sector was not included in the 2006 baseline inventory. Refrigerant emissions contributed to 90 MTCO2e in 2017 (see Table B-22). Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -25 TABLE B-22: 2006 BASELINE AND 2017 REFRIGERANTS SECTOR 2006 MTCO2E 2017 MTCO2E Refrigerants Not included 90 CONSUMPTION-BASED INVENTORY EMISSIONS As discussed in Chapter 3, the consumption-based inventory accounts for GHG emissions created by the goods and services used by community members of the unincorporated county, including residents, businesses, and employees. A consumption-based inventory assesses emissions associated with the manufacture, transportation, and disposal of these goods and services, regardless of where they occur. In 2015, BAAQMD worked with the Cool Climate Network at the University of California, Berkeley, to prepare a consumption-based inventory for all Bay Area jurisdictions. This inventory includes GHG emissions from the following sources: • Travel: GHG emissions from fuel use by on-road vehicles, vehicle manufacturing and repairs, public transportation, and air travel. • Housing: GHG emissions from electricity and natural gas use in homes as well as other fuels associated with home heating (such as kerosene or fuel oil), electricity emissions from water and wastewater activities, and waste emissions. This category also includes emissions from the manufacture, transportation, and construction and demolition of materials used to construct houses. • Food: GHG emissions from the growth, processing/manufacturing, and transportation of food products. • Goods: GHG emissions from the manufacture, transportation, and disposal of consumer products, such as home furnishings, appliances and electronics, clothing, and healthcare and personal items. • Services: GHG emissions from personal and business services, including entertainment and recreation, communication, education, healthcare, and maintenance and repair activities. Some of these GHG emission sources are also included in the production-based inventory prepared as part of the 2024 CAP, and others are covered by either the production-based or consumption-based inventory but not both. Table B-23 compares the sources of GHG Appendix B B -26 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 emissions in the 2024 CAAP production-based inventory and the BAAQMD/Cool Climate Network consumption-based inventory. TABLE B-23 COMPARISON OF SOURCES IN PRODUCTION-BASED AND CONSUMPTION- BASED GHG EMISSION INVENTORIES SOURCE OF EMISSIONS PRODUCTION-BASED CAAP INVENTORY BAAQMD/COOL CLIMATE NETWORK CONSUMPTION- BASED INVENTORY Generation of electricity used Included Included Combustion of natural gas used Included Included Combustion of other home heating fuels used Not included Included Fuel use from on-road vehicles Included Included Fuel use from public transportation Included Included Electricity use from BART Included Included Vehicle manufacturing and repairs Partially included* Included Air travel Not included Included Fuel use from off-road equipment, including construction and landscaping equipment Included Not included Generation of electricity used for water processing and transportation Included Included Generation of electricity used for wastewater processing and transportation Included Unknown† Direct wastewater process emissions Included Not included Landfilling of solid waste Included Included Reprocessing of recyclables Partially included* Included Compost processing Partially included* Included Manufacturing of home-construction materials Partially included* Included Food growth, processing, production, and transportation Partially included* Included Carbon sequestration in forests and street trees Included Not included Other embedded emissions in goods and services Not included Included Note: Due to differences in data sources and analysis methods, the same source of emissions in both inventories may produce different results. * Emissions from energy use, water use, and waste generation associated with these activities are included in the 2024 CAAP Update inventory if these activities occur in Contra Costa County. Emissions from these activities outside of Contra Costa County and other emissions associated with these activities in Contra Costa County are not included in the 2024 CAAP inventory. † Emissions from these activities are not explicitly called out in the BAAQMD/Cool Climate Network consumption-based inventory but may be included in the total electricity use category. Due to differences in data sources and analysis methods, the same source of emissions in both inventories may produce different results. Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -27 According to the consumption-based inventory, transportation is responsible for 15.5 MTCO2e per household, or 34 percent of emissions produced by activities conducted and goods consumed within unincorporated Contra Costa County. Food is responsible for 8.79 MTCO2e per household (19 percent), goods and services for 7.89 MTCO2e per household and 7.97 MTCO2e per household, respectively (17 percent each), and housing for 6.18 MTCO2e per household or 13 percent (see Figure B-1). FIGURE B-1. CONSUMPTION-BASED INVENTORY RESULTS 15.50 6.18 8.76 7.89 7.97 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 GHG emissions (MTCO2e per Household) Transportation Housing Food Goods Services Appendix B B -28 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Community-Wide Forecast The forecast of community-wide GHG emissions for the unincorporated area is based on the results of the 2019 community GHG emissions inventory. The project team assumed growth in these emissions consistent with the anticipated growth in unincorporated Cont ra Costa County’s future population, jobs, and development patterns, developed as part of the Envision Contra Costa buildout calculations. The project team forecast GHG emissions for the calendar years 2030 and 2045. The forecast is a “worst case” scenario that does not assume any efforts are taken, at any level, to reduce GHG emissions beyond the policies that are already in effect in 2019. For many sectors, the GHG forecast assumes that each person in the unincorporated area will continue to contribute the same amount of GHG emissions as they did in 2019, so that the amount of GHG emissions increases proportionally to demographic growth. There are some sectors that are not projected this way: • Transportation, which is projected using a regional traffic demand model based partially on demographics and partially on the location of various land uses. • Agriculture, which is forecast using future land use projections for the amount of agricultural land in the unincorporated area. • Land use and sequestration, which is forecast using future land use projections for developed land, forested land, and any agricultural and open space land that is developed. • Within the off-road equipment sector, emissions from construction and mining equipment are projected using the rate of population and job growth, emissions from industrial equipment are projected using future land use projections for industrial land, and emissions from Transportation Refrigeration Units are projected using the proportion of county-wide road miles in the unincorporated area. The forecast does not project any change in activity or GHG emissions for alternative home heating fuels (propane, kerosene, and wood), direct access electricity, cargo-handling equipment, or oil drilling equipment. Additionally, emissions for the two informational sectors (stationary sources and wildfires) are not forecasted, owing to their informational and substantial uncertainty in projecting future activities for these sectors. These GHG emissions do not have a demographic indicator that staff can use to reasonably project the volume of these emissions in the future, particularly given that they are informational Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -29 items and not included in the total community-wide emissions. Table B-23 shows the demographic projections and their sources for the unincorporated area. TABLE B-23: DEMOGRAPHIC PROJECTIONS, 2019 – 2045 DEMOGRAPHIC 2019 2030 2045 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2019-2045 SOURCE Population 174,150 199,360 239,720 38% ABAG/MTC, Envision Contra Costa Households 60,320 69,210 83,500 38% ABAG/MTC, Envision Contra Costa Jobs 38,760 42,480 48,150 24% US Census Bureau, Envision Contra Costa Service population* 212,910 241,840 287,870 35% ABAG/MTC, US Census Bureau, Envision Contra Costa * Service population is the sum of population and jobs All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Table B-24 shows unincorporated Contra Costa County’s projected future GHG emissions relative to the 2019 inventory. Most sectors show an increase in GHG emissions due to the growing population. Agricultural emissions decrease because the amount of land use for agricultural purposes is projected to decline. Although the land use and sequestration sector is expected to remain a net carbon sink (negative emissions), the amount of emissions sequestered (removed from the atmosphere) by the activities in this sector are projected to decline. This is due to anticipated development of currently undeveloped land, removing the potential for this land to sequester carbon. Sequestration in forested and urbanized areas is projected to increase slightly. Appendix B B -30 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 TABLE B-24: ABSOLUTE BUSINESS-AS-USUAL GHG EMISSIONS FORECAST, 2019–2045 SECTOR 2019 MTCO2E 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2019–2045 Transportation 464,040 542,020 605,080 30% Residential energy 191,780 217,710 259,380 35% Nonresidential energy 85,590 93,590 106,070 24% Solid waste 220,760 229,450 260,490 18% Agriculture 36,130 34,770 33,410 -8% Off-road equipment 54,010 69,520 76,100 41% Water and wastewater 4,870 5,530 6,590 35% BART 190 220 260 37% Land use and sequestration -70,860 -67,580 -58,890 -17% Total Annual MTCO2e 986,310 1,125,230 1,288,490 31% All values rounded to the nearest 10. Due to rounding, totals may not equal the sum of the individual values. Quantification STATE AND REGIONAL GHG EMISSION REDUCTIONS FROM EXISTING ACTIONS California has adopted and is committed to implementing policies that reduce statewide GHG emissions, including those in Contra Costa County. Many of these policies are laid out in the Climate Change Scoping Plan (Scoping Plan), a state document that outlines regulatory and market-based solutions to achieving California’s GHG emission reduction goals. The Scoping Plan was first prepared in 2008, with successive updates in 2014, 2017, and 2022. These updates revised the state-level actions and identified additional opportunities for GHG emission reductions. The Scoping Plan and related documents lay out several policies to reduce California’s GHG emissions, although not all are directly applicable to Contra Costa County. The project team has assessed Contra Costa County’s GHG emissions and identified five Sstate policies that are direclty relevant to the community. This allows the 2024 CAAP to provide “credit” to Contra Costa County for these policies. These Sstate efforts are: • The Renewables Portfolio Standard (RPS), which requires increases in renewable and carbon-free electricity supplies. RPS was first established in 2002 and has been amended multiple times, most recently by SB 100 in 2018. It requires all electricity Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -31 providers in the state to obtain at least 33 percent of their electricity from eligible renewable resources by the end of 2020, 60 percent of their electricity from eligible renewable resources by the end of 2030, and all of their electricity from carbon-free (although not necessarily eligible renewable) resources by the end of 2045. This policy reduces GHG emission from electricity use, including electricity used to transport and process water and wastewater, and electricity used for electric vehicles. • The Clean Car Standards, which require increased fuel efficiency of on-road vehicles and decreased carbon intensity of vehicle fuels. In 2002, California adopted AB 1493, the New Passenger Motor Vehicle Greenhouse Gas Emission Standards or Pavley standard. It required a reduction in tailpipe GHG emissions from new vehicles produced from 2009 to 2015. In 2012 CARB adopted an extension of this policy, the Advanced Clean Car Standards, which requires more stringent reductions in tailpipe GHG emissions from vehicles produced from 2016 to 2025. The Clean Car Standards reduce GHG emissions from on-road transportation. In August 2022, CARB adopted another expansion of these standards, known as the Advanced Clean Cars II standards. This regulation requires that all new light-duty vehicles (e.g., passenger cars, small trucks, and SUVs) sold in the state to be zero-emission by 2035, with interim targets for new light-duty vehicle sales beginning in 2026. There are some limited exceptions for plug-in hybrid vehicles. CARB adopted similar rules for heavy-duty vehicles and state and local government fleets in 2020 (Advanced Clean Trucks) and 2023 (Advanced Clean Fleets). Advanced Clean Cars II and Advanced Clean Fleets are not included in the modeling used to assess GHG reductions from the Clean Car Standards. These GHG reductions are counted as part of the reductions associated with Strategy TR-2. • The updated Title 24 building energy efficiency standards require new buildings to achieve increased energy-efficiency targets. The latest version of these standards is set to go into effect January 1, 2023. California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 6 is California’s energy efficiency standards for new and renovated buildings, applied at the local level through the project review and building permit process. The standards are strengthened every three years, with the ultimate goal of making new buildings net- zero energy, meaning that they would generate as much energy as they use. The most recent set of Title 24 standards went into effect on January 1, 2020. On August 11, 2021, the California Energy Commission (CEC) adopted the 2022 Title 24 standards. In December, it was approved by the California Building Standards Commission for inclusion into the California Building Standards Code. The 2022 Title 24 standards encourage efficient electric heat pumps, establish electric-ready requirements for new homes, expand solar photovoltaic and battery storage standards, and strengthen Appendix B B -32 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 ventilation standards. Buildings whose permit applications are applied for on or after January 1, 2023, must comply with the 2022 Title 24 standards. • The Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) mandates reduced carbon intensity of fuels used in off-road equipment. The Low Carbon Fuel Standard was adopted in 2009 and required a 10 percent reduction in the carbon intensity of all transportation and equipment fuels by 2020. This policy reduces GHG emissions from on-road transportation and from off-road equipment. The LCFS has since been revised several times, most recently in 2020. The 2020 LCFS requires further reductions in carbon intensity of around 1.25 percent every year until 2030. • The Short-Lived Climate Pollutant Reduction Strategy, also known as Senate Bill (SB) 1383, requires that communities divert 75 percent of organic waste (food scraps, grass, and plant trimmings, etc.) away from landfills and toward alternatives such as composting or energy generation. As a part of this requirement, all jurisdictions must offer curbside composting to single-family and small multifamily properties (less than five units). Larger multifamily properties and businesses must either participate in curbside composting or subscribe to self-haul organic waste to a composting program or collection site. SB 1383 also includes requirements related to diverting surplus food to people in need, increasing the use of products made from recycled organics, and providing more detailed reporting statistics. • Renewable Natural Gas assumes that biomethane and renewable hydrogen fuels will be blended into the fossil gas pipeline and that, in the 2030s, dedicated hydrogen pipelines will be constructed to serve certain industrial clusters. In addition to these five state-level policies, the County’s default electricity provider, MCE, has also taken action to reduce the GHG emissions from the electricity it supplies to Contra Costa community members, beyond the minimum required by RPS. In 2019, MCE electricity was approximately 60 percent renewable and 90 percent carbon-free. In 2023, MCE sourced over 95 percent of its electricity from carbon-free sources. Since MCE supplies more electricity from carbon-free sources than RPS requires it to, the County can receive “credit” for the GHG reductions that result from going beyond the State mininum. The County also enacted an all-electric reach code (suspended in February 2024), which required many types of new buildings to be built using only electricity, not use natural gas, thereby reducing GHG emissions associated with residential and nonresidential energy. The County is developing a new ordinance that will support high levels of energy efficiency and low levels of GHG emissions for new construction. This ordinance is expected to take Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -33 effect on January 1, 2025, and will be updated during future revisions to the Building Standards Code. Overall, these existing policies are expected to reduce Contra Costa County’s future GHG emissions. Without these policies in place, community-wide GHG emissions in the unincorporated area are expected to be approximatley 1,300,320 MTCO2e by 2045, or 289 percent above 2019 levels. With these polices enacted, community-wide GHG absolute emissions in the unincorporated area are projected to be approximately 874,42036,100 MTCO2e by 2045, or 187 percent below 2019 levels. Table B-25 shows the absolute reductions achieved by these policies. TABLE B-25: GHG EMISSION REDUCTIONS FROM EXISTING AND PLANNED STATE, REGIONAL, AND LOCAL ACTIONS (2019–2045) 2019 2030 2045 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2019–2045 Forecast emissions without state and regional actions 986,310 1,125,230 1,288,490 31% Reductions from RPS - -24,620 -115,400 - Reductions from Clean Car standards - -110,250 -214,120 - Reductions from Title 24 - -9,880 31,600 - Reductions from LCFS (off-road only)* - -740 7,430 - Reductions from SB 1383 - -21,880 -53,870 - Reductions from renewable natural gas -18,460 -78,050 Reductions from MCE clean energy procurement - -1,240 - - Reductions from all-electric reach code (suspended February 2024) - -3,150 -2,590 - Reductions from all existing and planned state and regional actions - -188,740 -488,200 - Emissions with all existing and planned state and regional actions 986,310 957,470 874,420 -11% Note: All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Due to rounding, totals may not equal the sum of the individual values. * Due to the methods used in the forecast and assessment of state GHG reduction potential, future projections for off-road equipment GHG emissions are higher than forecast above. Appendix B B -34 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 TECHNICAL DATA FOR GHG REDUCTION STRATEGIES This section discusses the data sources, methods, and assumptions for the quantification of the GHG-reduction strategies included in the Contra Costa County 2024 CAAP. In addition to the sources presented here, these calculations also rely on the GHG inventory and forecast. These calculations rely on emission factors that reflect the reductions already achieved by the existing actions discussed in the previous section. Table B-26 shows these emission factors. TABLE B-26: EMISSION FACTORS WITH EXISTING ACTIONS (2019–2045) ACTIVITY TYPE UNITS 2019 2030 2045 Electricity (PG&E) MTCO2e/kWh 0.000108 0.000077 0.000000 Electricity (MCE) MTCO2e/kWh 0.000045 0.000044 0.000000 Electricity (direct access) MTCO2e/kWh 0.000187 0.000134 0.000000 Electricity (PG&E and MCE) MTCO2e/kWh 0.000054 0.000047 0.000000 Natural gas MTCO2e/Therms 0.005310 0.005311 0.005310 Propane MTCO2e/Gallons 0.005845 0.005845 0.005845 Kerosene MTCO2e/Gallons 0.010417 0.010417 0.010417 Wood MTCO2e/MMBTU 0.095664 0.095664 0.095664 On-road transportation MTCO2e/VMT 0.000408 0.000325 0.000408 Solid waste (MSW) MTCO2e/Tons 0.261659 0.261678 0.261676 Solid waste (ADC) MTCO2e/Tons 0.245383 0.245132 0.245854 Solid waste (combined) MTCO2e/Tons 0.004628 0.003958 0.260191 BART MTCO2e/Passenger miles 0.000013 0.000008 0.000013 For each strategy, this appendix discusses the following items: • The savings in activity data (e.g., kWh of electricity or tons of solid waste) in 2030 and 2045 resulting from implementing the strategy as described. A negative value indicates an increase in activity data. • The decreases in GHG emissions in 2030 and 2045 resulting from implementing the strategy as described. • The assumptions made about the strategy’s performance, such as the level of community participation required to achieve the specified reductions by 2030 and 2045. • The performance targets, which are quantifiable metrics about the projected level of success the strategy must meet to achieve the specified reductions by 2030 and 2045. Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -35 • Sources: Key studies, analyses, and other sources of data used to inform the quantification. This does not include the GHG inventory, forecast, or other technical analyses prepared as part of the 2024 CAAP or the 2045 Contra Costa General Plan. CLEAN AND EFFICIENT BUILT ENVIRONMENT Strategy BE-1: Require and incentivize new buildings and additions built in unincorporated Contra Costa County to be low-carbon or carbon neutral. ACTIVITY DATA SAVINGS ACTIVITY DATA TYPE 2030 2045 Natural gas savings (therms) 889,870 2,754,380 Electricity savings (kWh) -1,198,930 -6,086,080 GHG SAVINGS 2030 MTCO2E 20545 MTCO2E GHG reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 4,340 10,970 KEY ASSUMPTIONS 2030 2045 Cumulative percentage of residential new construction influenced by EDR code (once implemented)built to be all-electric 95% 95% Cumulative percentage of new eligible nonresidential office construction influenced by EDR code (once implemented)built to be all-electric 95% 95% Cumulative percentage of new nonresidential buildings eligible for EDR code non-office commercial construction built to be all-electric 50% 50% Year EDR reach code is first implementedCumulative % new non- residential buildings that are office space: 2025 2025 PERFORMANCE TARGETS 2030 2045 Number of new EDR-compliant all-electric residential units 8,450 22,020 Number of new EDR-compliantall-electric commercial buildings 140 360 Appendix B B -36 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 SOURCES American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE). 2015. “ASHRAE Technical FAQ”. California Energy Commission. 2006. 2006 California Commercial End-Use Survey (CEUS). https://www.energy.ca.gov/datB-reports/surveys/californiB-commercial-end-use- survey/2006-californiB-commercial-end-use-survey. Frontier Energy, Inc, Misti Bruceri & Associates, LLC. 2023. “2022 Cost-Effectiveness Study: Single Family New Construction.” Frontier Energy, Inc, Misti Bruceri & Associates, LLC. 2023. “2022 Cost-Effectiveness Study: Multifamily New Construction.” Goyal, A., Farahmand, F., TRC Companies, Inc. 2023. “Nonresidential New Construction Reach Code Cost-effectivness Study.” Greenblatt, J.B. 2015. “Modeling California policy impacts on greenhouse gas emissions.” https://eta-publications.lbl.gov/sites/default/files/lbnl-7008e.pdf. Strategy BE-2: Retrofit existing buildings and facilities in the unincorporated County, and County infrastructure, to reduce energy use and convert to low-carbon or carbon-neutral free fuels. In March 2023, BAAQMD adopted amendments to Regulation 9, Rules 4 and 6. These revisions require that, when existing natural-gas-powered space heaters and water heaters reach the end of their operational life, they be replaced with electric-powered models. These requirements are scheduled to take effect in 2027 to 2031 for water heaters (depending on the capacity of the unit) and in 2029 for space heaters. ACTIVITY DATA SAVINGS ACTIVITY DATA TYPE 2030 2045 Electricity savings (kWh) – With BAAQMD rule 100,583,970 190,187,380 Natural gas savings (therms) – With BAAQMD rule 6,596,190 16,882,720 Propane savings (gallons) – With BAAQMD rule 130,620 344,450 Gallons kerosene 2,090 5,500 MMBTU wood 13,010 34,300 GHG SAVINGS WITH BAAQMD RULE 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E GHG reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 55,990 156,150 Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -37 KEY ASSUMPTIONS 2030 2045 Percentage of existing homes conducting standard retrofits 20% 40% Percentage of existing homes upgrading to Title 24 Standards 20% 40% Percentage of existing mobile homes conducting standard retrofits 30% 60% Percentage of businesses conducting standard retrofits (not including fuel switching) 15% 25% Percentage of businesses retrofitting to current Title 24 standards (not including fuel switching) 15% 25% Cumulative percentage of homes electrifying water heaters (BAAQMD compliance) 15% 85% Cumulative percentage of homes electrifying space heaters (BAAQMD compliance) 10% 90% Cumulative percentage of businesses electrifying water heaters (BAAQMD compliance) Less than 10% 70% Cumulative percentage of businesses electrifying space heaters (BAAQMD compliance) 5% 90% Percentage of commercial buildings covered by BAAQMD rules 50% 50% Cumulative percentage of homes electrifying cooking appliances 5% 65% Cumulative percentage of homes electrifying clothes drying appliances 10% 80% Cumulative percentage of businesses electrifying cooking appliances 5% 60% PERFORMANCE TARGETS 2030 2045 Number of housing units undergoing energy efficiency retrofits 14,160 28,310 Number of housing units renovated brought up to current Title 24 energy efficiency standards 13,210 26,430 Number of commercial buildings undergoing energy efficiency retrofits 490 820 Number of commercial buildings brought uprenovated to current Title 24 energy efficiency standards 490 820 SOURCES American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE). 2015. “ASHRAE Technical FAQ”. Appendix B B -38 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 California Energy Commission. 2006. 2006 California Commercial End-Use Survey (CEUS). https://www.energy.ca.gov/datB-reports/surveys/californiB-commercial-end-use- survey/2006-californiB-commercial-end-use-survey. California Energy Commission. 2014. Impact Evaluation of the California Comprehensive Residential Retrofit Programs. California Energy Commission. 2021. 2019 California Residential Appliance Saturation Study (RASS). https://www.energy.ca.gov/datB-reports/surveys/2019-residential-appliance- saturation-study. California Public Utilities Commission. 2017. Final Report: 2015 Home Upgrade Program Impact Evaluation. https://www.calmac.org/publications/RES_5.1_HUP_FINAL_REPORT_ATR_06-30-17.pdf. Martin, E. Sutherland, K., Parker, D. 2016. “Measured Performance of Heat Pump Clothes Dryers.” https://www.aceee.org/files/proceedings/2016/data/papers/1_160.pdf. Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. 2011. “Advanced Energy Retrofit Guides: Office Buildings.” https://www.pnnl.gov/main/publications/external/technical_reports/PNNL- 20761.pdf. Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. 2011. “Advanced Energy Retrofit Guides: Retail Buildings.” https://www.pnnl.gov/main/publications/external/technical_reports/PNNL- 20814.pdf. US Department of Energy. n.d. “Energy-Efficient Manufactured Homes.” https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/energy-efficient-manufactured-homes. Strategy BE-3: Increase the amount of electricity used and generated from renewable sources in the county. ACTIVITY DATA SAVINGS ACTIVITY DATA TYPE 2030 2045 Electricity savings (kWh) 114,969,980 271,666,080 GHG SAVINGS 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E GHG reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 10,8320 0 Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -39 KEY ASSUMPTIONS 2030 2045 Percentage of existing homes installing solar energy systems 15% 35% Percentage of existing homes with solar energy systems and installing battery storage systems 20% 50% Percentage of new homes installing battery storage systems 40% 60% Percentage of existing businesses installing solar energy systems 3% 11% Percentage of existing businesses with solar energy systems and battery storage systems 15% 45% Percentage of residents enrolling in MCE 90% 90% Percentage of businesses enrolling in MCE 90% 90% Percentage of residents enrolling in 100% renewable tiers 10% 30% Percentage of businesses enrolling in 100% renewable tiers 5% 20% Percentage of direct access customers switching to MCE 5% 10% PERFORMANCE TARGETS 2030 2045 Residential solar systems installed 9,190 23,030 Residential battery systems installed 5,330 0 Nonresidential solar systems installed 30 290 Nonresidential battery systems installed 10 0 Residential electricity supplied by MCE (kWh) 272,202,760 292,636,220 Residential electricity provided at Deep Green tier (kWh) 25,842,700 83,347,910 Nonresidential electricity provided by MCE (kWh) 219,413,250 220,477,040 Nonresidential electricity provided at Deep Green tier (kWh) 10,533,730 42,339,190 SOURCES California Distributed Generation Statistics. 2021. Interconnected Project Sites, 2021-09-30 [data set]. https://www.californiadgstats.ca.gov/archives/interconnection_rule21_projects/. MCE. 2020. Operational Integrated Resource Plan, 2021- 2030. https://www.mcecleanenergy.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/MCE-Operational- Integrated-Resource-Plan_2021.pdf. National Renewable Energy Laboratory. n.d. “PVWatts”. https://pvwatts.nrel.gov/. Appendix B B -40 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 NO WASTE CONTRA COSTA Strategy NW-1: Increase composting of organic waste. ACTIVITY DATA SAVINGS ACTIVITY DATA TYPE 2030 2045 Waste savings (tons) 5,580 9,190 GHG SAVINGS 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E GHG reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 2,240 4,000 KEY ASSUMPTIONS 2030 2045 Current compost diversion rate 77% 77% Target compost diversion rate 90% 95% PERFORMANCE TARGETS 2030 2045 Number of households with composting service 62,290 79,330 Number of businesses with composting service 2,930 3,510 SOURCES California Air Resources Board. 2011. Landfill Methane Emissions Tool [data table]. https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/documents/landfill-methane-emissions-tool. California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery. 2019. “Residential Waste Stream by Material Type”. https://www2.calrecycle.ca.gov/WasteCharacterization/ResidentialStreams?lg=7&cy=7. California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery. 2019. “Waste Characterization Tool for California Jurisdictions”. https://www2.calrecycle.ca.gov/WasteCharacterization/. Contra Costa County. 2020. Climate Action Plan Progress Report for 2020. https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_12142020-3083. Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -41 Strategy NW-2: Reduce waste from County operations. ACTIVITY DATA SAVINGS ACTIVITY DATA TYPE 2030 2045 Waste savings (tons) 2,630 3,510 GHG SAVINGS 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E GHG reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 1,090 1,620 KEY ASSUMPTIONS 2030 2045 Target composting diversion rate for County activities 85% 95% Target recycling diversion rate for County activities 85% 95% PERFORMANCE TARGETS 2030 2045 Weekly average cubic yards of composted organics (uncompacted) 1,050 1,140 Weekly average cubic yards of recycled materials (uncompacted) 270 300 SOURCES California Air Resources Board. 2011. Landfill Methane Emissions Tool [data table]. https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/documents/landfill-methane-emissions-tool. California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery. 2019. “Residential Waste Stream by Material Type.” https://www2.calrecycle.ca.gov/WasteCharacterization/ResidentialStreams?lg=7&cy=7. California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery. 2019. “Waste Characterization Tool for California Jurisdictions”. https://www2.calrecycle.ca.gov/WasteCharacterization/. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. 2006. “2006 IPCC Guidelines for National Greenhouse Gas Inventories.” https://www.ipcc-nggip.iges.or.jp/public/2006gl/index.html. Appendix B B -42 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Strategy NW-3: Increase community-wide recycling and waste programs. ACTIVITY DATA SAVINGS ACTIVITY DATA TYPE 2030 2045 Waste savings (tons) 5,560 16,770 GHG SAVINGS 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E GHG reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 520 2,530 KEY ASSUMPTIONS 2030 2045 Target community diversion rate 77% 85% Decrease in non-organic and non-recyclable waste tonnage 20% 50% PERFORMANCE TARGETS 2030 2045 Reduction in landfilled recyclables (tons) 0 1,280 Decrease in non-compostable/recyclable tonnage (tons) 5,560 15,490 Pounds of waste per person per day 2.08 1.85 SOURCES California Air Resources Board. 2011. Landfill Methane Emissions Tool [data table]. https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/documents/landfill-methane-emissions-tool. California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery. 2019. “Residential Waste Stream by Material Type”. https://www2.calrecycle.ca.gov/WasteCharacterization/ResidentialStreams?lg=7&cy=7. California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery. 2019. “Waste Characterization Tool for California Jurisdictions”. https://www2.calrecycle.ca.gov/WasteCharacterization/. United States Environmental Protection Agency. 2016. Volume-to-Weight Conversion Factors. https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2016- 04/documents/volume_to_weight_conversion_factors_memorandum_04192016_508fnl.pdf. Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -43 Strategy NW-4: Reduce emissions from landfill gas. GHG SAVINGS 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E GHG reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 57,460 61,410 KEY ASSUMPTIONS 2030 2045 Current methane capture rate 75% 75% Future methane capture rate (Keller and Acme only) 85% 85% Decrease in flared landfill gas 15% 30% PERFORMANCE TARGETS 2030 2045 Methane capture rate at Keller and Acme landfills 15% 30% Tons of flared landfill gas 5,460 4,330 SOURCES Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development. 2020. “Attachment 8: November 2020 Draft MND SCH #2020100267.” http://64.166.146.245/docs/2021/BOS/20210713_1776/46178_8%20November%202020%2 0Draft%20MND%20SCH%20%232020100267.pdf. REDUCE WATER USE AND INCREASE DROUGHT RESILIENCE Strategy DR-1: Reduce indoor and outdoor water use. ACTIVITY DATA SAVINGS ACTIVITY DATA TYPE 2030 2045 Electricity savings (kWh) 1,436,210 2,560,780 Water (MG) 360 650 GHG SAVINGS 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E GHG reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 970 1,440 Appendix B B -44 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 KEY ASSUMPTIONS 2030 2045 Percentage of existing homes with graywater systems 5% 20% Percentage of existing businesses with graywater systems 2% 10% Percentage of existing homes retrofitting water fixtures 60% 90% Percentage of existing businesses retrofitting water fixtures 60% 90% Percentage of new homes with graywater systems 10% 35% Percentage of new businesses with graywater systems 5% 20% PERFORMANCE TARGETS 2030 2045 Number of residential graywater system installations 3,910 20,180 Number of commercial graywater systems installations 70 440 Number of nonresidential buildings receiving water efficiency upgrades 1,790 2,680 Number of residential buildings receiving water efficiency upgrades 36,190 54,290 SOURCES Environmental Protection Agency. 2009. “Water Efficiency in the Commercial and Institutional Sector: Considerations for a WaterSense Program.” https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2017-03/documents/ws-commercial-ci- whitepaper.pdf State of California, Natural Resources Agency, Department of Water Resources. 2014. “California Water Plan Update 2013.” State of California, Natural Resources Agency, Department of Water Resources. 2019. “California Water Plan Update 2018.” https://water.ca.gov/-/media/DWR-Website/Web- Pages/Programs/CaliforniB-Water-Plan/Docs/Update2018/Final/CaliforniB-Water-Plan- Update-2018.pdf Water Research Foundation. 2016. “Residential End Uses of Water Study, Version 2: Executive Report.” Strategy DR-2: Ensure sustainable and diverse water supplies. This is a supportive measure that does not result in direct measureable GHG emissions. There are no activity or GHG savings, assumptions, performance indicators, or sources associated with this measure. Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -45 CLEAN TRANSPORTATION NETWORK Strategy TR-1: Improve the viability of walking, biking, zero-emission commuting, and using public transit for travel within, to, and from the county. ACTIVITY DATA SAVINGS ACTIVITY DATA TYPE 2030 2045 Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) 52,447,950 153,067,310 GHG SAVINGS 2030 MTCO2E 20545MTCO2E GHG reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 17,050 40,370 KEY ASSUMPTIONS 2030 2045 Miles of bicycle lanes 45 132 Average round trip length for bicyclee trips (miles) 2.1 2.1 Is bike parking provided in most nonresidential locations? Yes Yes Percentage% increase in combined housing units/acre due to TOD 15% 63% Percentage% increase in jobs/acre due to TOD 10% 45% Percentage increase in transit frequency 5% 15% Level of implementation (increase in transit frequency) 10% 25% Percentage increase in transit service miles 5% 15% Percentage of employers participating in TDM 5% 20% Average trip reduction from voluntary TDM participation 15% 45% Percentage of county with expanded sidewalks 5% 15% Change in percentage of households that have access to electric bike sharing 5% 9% Percentage of multifamily units permanently designated as affordable 5% 15% Percentage of transit routes that receive supportive treatments 1% 2% Appendix B B -46 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 PERFORMANCE TARGETS 2030 2045 Miles of bicycle lanes 50 130 Bicycle mode share 1% 1% Bus ridership (commute share) 5% 15% BART ridership (passenger miles) 17,227,850 22,459,900 VMT reduction from TDM programs 1,705,370 25,757,280 New affordable multifamily units 70 540 Percentage of transit routes that receive supportive treatments 1% 2% Change in percentage of households that have access to electric bike sharing 5% 9% SOURCES California Air Pollution Control Officers Association. 2010. “Quantifying Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Measures.” http://www.aqmd.gov/docs/default-source/ceqa/handbook/capcoB- quantifying-greenhouse-gas-mitigation-measures.pdf. Contra Costa Transportation Authority. 2018. “Contra Costa Countywide Bicycle Pedestrian Plan.” https://ccta.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/5b8ec26192756.pdf. US Census. “Contra Costa County 2019 ACS 5-Year Estimates, Table B08006.” Strategy TR-2: Increase the use of zero-emissions vehicles. Transition to a zero-emission County fleet by 2035 and a community fleet that is at least 50 percent zero-emission by 2030. ACTIVITY DATA SAVINGS ACTIVITY DATA TYPE 2030 2045 Electricity used (kWh) -111,003,180 -260,019,140 Natural gas (gallons) 2,760 5,450 Diesel (gallons) 530,690 1,353,420 VMT 14,260 14,260 GHG SAVINGS 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E GHG reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 148,000 343,890 Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -47 KEY ASSUMPTIONS 2030 2045 Percentage of cCounty vehicles that are zero-emission 80% 95% Percentage of community fleet that is zero-emission (light-duty) 35% 85% Target percentage of total community TNC VMT from electric vehicles 75% 90% Percentage of community fleet that is zero-emission (heavy-duty) 10% 70% Target percentage total commercial Natural Gas VMT replaced by biomethane 2% 5% Target percentage total commercial Diesel VMT replaced by biomethane 5% 15% Percentage of lawn and garden fuel use converted to electric 30% 80% Percentage construction equipment fuel use converted to electric 30% 60% Percentage other commercial fuel use converted to electric 20% 55% Number of EVs in EV car sharing 50 100 PERFORMANCE TARGETS 2030 2045 New VMT from electric vehicles, community-wide, including municipal operations 325,676,160 968,702,100 Reduction in municipal vehicle gasoline use (gallons) 230,120 250,030 New VMT from electric vehicles, TNC 82,961,910 101,629,820 Reduction in offroad gasoline use (gallons) 2,113,740 0 Reduction in offroad diesel use (gallons) 3,625,240 0 Increase in biomethane VMT 3,003,670 8,050,840 Number of EVs in car sharing 50 100 SOURCES California Air Pollution Control Officers Association. 2010. “Quantifying Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Measures.” http://www.aqmd.gov/docs/default-source/ceqa/handbook/capcoB- quantifying-greenhouse-gas-mitigation-measures.pdf. California Air Resources Board. 2010. “Local Government Operations Protocol For the quantification and reporting of greenhouse gas emissions inventories.” https://ww3.arb.ca.gov/cc/protocols/localgov/pubs/lgo_protocol_v1_1_2010-05-03.pdf. California Air Resources Board. 2020. “2020 Emissions Model for Small Off-Road Engines – SORE2020.” https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2020- 09/SORE2020_Technical_Documentation_2020_09_09_Final_Cleaned_ADA.pdf. California Air Resources Board. 2021. “Handbook for Analyzing Greenhouse Gas Emission Reductions, Assessing Climate Vulnerabilities, and Advancing Health and Equity.” Appendix B B -48 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 https://www.airquality.org/ClimateChange/Documents/Handbook%20Public%20Draft_2021 -Aug.pdf. California Air Resources Board. 2021. EMFAC2021 V1.0.1 Emission Inventory. https://arb.ca.gov/emfac/emissions-inventory/. Contra Costa Transportation Authority. 2018. “Contra Costa Countywide Bicycle Pedestrian Plan.” https://ccta.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/5b8ec26192756.pdf. Contra Costa Transportation Authority. 2019. “Contra Costa Electric Vehicle Readiness Blueprint.” https://ccta.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/CCTB-EV-Blueprint.pdf. US Department of Energy. 2021. “FuelEconomy.gov”. https://fueleconomy.gov/. Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -49 RESILIENT COMMUNITIES AND NATURAL INFRASTRUCTURE Strategy NI-4: Sequester carbon on natural and working lands in Contra Costa County. ACTIVITY DATA SAVINGS There are no activity data savings associated with this strategy. GHG SAVINGS 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E GHG reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 22,630 88,910 KEY ASSUMPTIONS 2030 2045 Percentage of irrigated crops with seasonal cover crops 15% 35% Percentage of irrigated crops practicing mulching 5% 35% Percentage of irrigated crops with compost application 15% 80% Percentage of irrigated crops with field borders 2% 8% Percentage of irrigated crops practicing alley cropping 10% 30% Percentage of irrigated crops with conservation crop rotation 25% 50% Percentage of irrigated crops practicing reduced tillage 15% 35% Percentage of irrigated crops practicing no tillage 5% 10% Percentage of orchards/vineyards with seasonal cover crops 5% 25% Percentage of orchards/vineyards practicing mulching 5% 25% Percentage of orchards/vineyards with compost application 15% 80% Percentage of orchards/vineyards with windbreaks 0% 2% Percentage of orchards with reduced tilling 10% 35% Percentage of vineyards with reduced tilling 10% 35% Percentage of pastures and rangeland with compost application 5% 15% Percentage of pastures and rangeland with prescribed grazing 15% 40% Percentage of pastures and rangeland practicing oak restoration 1% 5% Percentage of pastures and rangeland practicing riparian restoration 0% 1.2% Percentage of rangeland with range planting 2% 10% Percentage of grasslands with native grass restoration 2% 10% Percentage of forested areas undergoing annual fuel reduction 5% 25% Appendix B B -50 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 PERFORMANCE TARGETS 2030 2045 Acres of irrigated crops with seasonal cover crops 3,770 8,130 Acres of irrigated crops practicing mulching 1,260 8,130 Acres of irrigated crops with compost application 3,770 18,590 Acres of irrigated crops with field borders 500 1,860 Acres of irrigated crops converted due to alley cropping 510 1,480 Acres of irrigated crops with conservation crop rotation 6,280 11,620 Acres of irrigated crops practicing reduced tillage 3,770 8,130 Acres of irrigated crops practicing no tillage 1,260 2,320 Acres of orchards or vineyards with seasonal cover crops 220 1,060 Acres of orchards or vineyards practicing mulching 220 1,060 Acres of orchards or vineyards with compost application 660 3,380 Acres of orchards or vineyards with windbreaks - 80 Acres of orchards with reduced tilling 250 790 Acres of vineyards with reduced tilling 210 690 Acres of pastures and rangeland with compost application 7,430 21,430 Acres of pastures and rangeland with prescribed grazing 22,300 57,140 Acres of pastures and rangeland practicing oak restoration 1,490 7,140 Acres of pastures and rangeland practicing riparian restoration - 1,710 Acres of rangeland with range planting 2,870 13,780 Acres of grasslands with native grass restoration 2,610 13,150 Acres of forested areas undergoing annual fuel reduction 3,030 15,250 SOURCES California Air Resources Board. 2010. “Local Government Operations Protocol For the quantification and reporting of greenhouse gas emissions inventories.” https://ww3.arb.ca.gov/cc/protocols/localgov/pubs/lgo_protocol_v1_1_2010-05-03.pdf. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN APPENDIX C: VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -1 In January 2019, Contra Costa County prepared a Vvulnerability Aassessment in compliance with Section 65302 of the California Government Code in order to identify key vulnerable assets and populations within the cCounty and set the groundwork for short- and long- term adaptation efforts. This Vvulnerability Aassessment highlighted the cCounty’s potential vulnerabilities to agricultural pests and diseases, changes in air quality, drought, extreme heat, flooding, fog, human health hazards, landslides and debris flows, severe storms, sea level rise, shoreline flooding, and wildfire. METHOD The Vulnerability Assessment follows the recommended process in the California Adaptation Planning Guide (APG). The APG suggests vulnerability assessments follow a four- step process, including the following steps, as shown in Figure C-1: • Identify Exposure. Exposure is the presence of people; infrastructure; natural systems; and economic, cultural, and social resources in areas subject to harm from hazardous conditions. A hazard, or climate hazard, is an event or physical condition that has the potential to cause types of harm or loss. The project team looked at the exposure of different populations and assets to specific climate change hazards. • Analyze Sensitivity and Potential Impacts. Sensitivity is the level to which changing climate conditions affect a species, natural system, community, government, etc. Potential impacts are the effects of a climate change hazard, or the combination of exposure and sensitivity. The project team first identified which hazard would likely affect particular populations and assets because not all hazards will affect all populations or assets. For example, human health hazards are likely to affect most populations, but they would not affect the structural stability of a bridge or a dam. The project team then evaluated the severity of the impacts from the climate change hazard, to generate an impact score ranging from High (most severe) to Low (least severe). Appendix C C -2 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 • Evaluate Adaptive Capacity. Adaptive capacity is the ability of people and assets to adjust to potential damage from climate change hazards, to take advantage of existing opportunities such as funding, tools, and resources, or to respond to the impacts of climate change. The project team evaluated the adaptive capacity of each population or asset for each applicable identified hazard. As with impact scoring, the project team scored the adaptive capacity of populations or assets ranging from High (more adaptable to a hazard) to Low (least adaptable to a hazard). • Conduct Vulnerability Scoring. Vulnerability is the degree to which populations and assets are susceptible to harm, based on a combination of impact and adaptive capacity for each applicable identified hazard as affected by the level of exposure to changing climate conditions. In accordance with the process in the APG, the project team used the impact and adaptive capacity scoring to identify and prioritize the most vulnerable populations and assets in Contra Costa County. FIGURE C-1. CALIFORNIA ADAPTATION PLANNING GUIDE RECOMMENDED MODEL Step 1. Identify Exposure Step 2. Analyze Sensitivities & Potential Impacts Step 3. Evaluate Adaptive Capacity Step 4. Conduct Vulnerability Scoring Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -3 People with something in common that may make them more vulnerable to climate-related hazards than the average person. Populations Structures that provide various services to Contra Costa County community members. Infrastructure Homes, nonresidential buildings, and other land uses. Buildings Properties and activities that make significant contributions to the Contra Costa County economy. Important economic assets Different types of wild and natural land. Ecosystems and natural resources Important functions to community members provided by government agencies and private companies. Key community services Key Concepts in Climate Change Vulnerability Exposures: the presence of people, infrastructure, natural systems, and economic, cultural, and social resources in areas that are subject to harmFor example, the number and frequency of extreme heat days is expected to increase across Contra Costa County. To prepare this vulnerability assessment, the project team determined which effects of climate change are expected to occur in and around Contra Costa County, as well as those that may already be occurring. Sensivity: the degree to which a species, natural system, or community, government, and other associated systems would be affected by changing climate conditions. The project team prepared a list of the various types of people and assets in and around Contra Costa County that could be affected by climate change to be included in the vulnerability assessment. Impact: a specific negative result of a climate change effect, generally on a particular population or asset. Impact is often determined by the combination of exposure and sensitivity. For example, if the effect of climate change is that droughts are likely to become more frequent and severe, a potential impact to farmers is that less water could be available for irrigation. Every population and asset in Contra Costa County is likely to experience different impacts. In this vulnerability assessment, the project team looked at the potential impacts to each sensitivity from each identified exposure. Adaptive Capacity: the combination of the strengths, attributes, and resources available to an individual, community, society, or organization that can be used to prepare for and undertake actions to reduce adverse impacts [or] moderate harm or to exploit beneficial opportunities.” Adaptive capacity it is the ability to adjust to potential damage, to take advantage of opportunities, or to respond to consequences. For example, during extreme heat events, populations with a greater risk of heat-related illnesses can go to cooling centers, which improve their adaptive capacity. The project team looked at the adaptive capacity of each sensitivity for each identified exposure as part of the vulnerability assessment. Appendix C C -4 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Assessment Process Following the APG’s recommended process, the project team selected the hazards that made the most sense to analyze in the vulnerability assessment. The project team reviewed various guidance documents and reports to select these exposures and sensitivities, including the Adaptation Planning Guide, the Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan, and the County’s existing General Plan. Once these were identified, the project team looked at who and what in the community are likely to be affected by which hazards since not all hazards will affect all populations and assets. For example, human health hazards affect most population sensitivities, but they would not affect the structural stability of a bridge or a dam. The project team then assessed the impacts and adaptive capacity for each relevant hazard for all affected populations and assets. County staff from various departments and a representative from the Contra Costa County Sustainability Commission with related technical expertise reviewed the impact, adaptive capacity, and vulnerability scores to provide local knowledge and additional accuracy for the assessment. Potential Impact Cascading Impacts: Climate change hazards can have cascading or compounding effects throughout the county. Cascading or compounding climate change effects means one climate change hazard leads to another, and the effects can “cascade” into a disaster. Human health hazards, for example, have cascading effects, such as rendering workers unable to work and visitors unable to travel to an area, that harm both economic drivers and key community services. The project team accounted for these when developing the applicability matrix, during the assessment process, and while summarizing the vulnerability results. Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -5 To identify the magnitude of the impacts of each relevant hazards on the populations and assets, the project team considered a number of different questions that helped ensure that the assessment broadly covers the range of potential harm. Examples of these questions include: • What types of impacts may occur? Could they cause physical injury or damage? Is there a risk of behavioral or mental harm, loss of economic activity, or other nonphysical effects? • How many people or community assets could be affected by both direct and indirect harm? • How long would the impacts persist? • Is there a substantial chance of death or widespread destruction? Based on the results of the impact assessment (IM), the County ranked each population and asset on a five-point scale (0 – 4) for each relevant hazard. IM0 is the lowest score (lowest impact), and IM4 is the highest score (highest impact). Impact is a negative quality, so a lower impact score is better. Contra Costa County adjusted these scores up or down to account for risk levels and onset. Table C-1 provides more detail about what each impact score means. Direct and Indirect Impacts Direct and Indirect Impacts: The project team marked the hazard as applicable to the population or asset if the hazard directly or indirectly affects a population or asset. Direct impacts affect physical assets, health, or immediate operations, which can lead to indirect impacts on the broader system or community, including asset types in a different category. For example, severe weather can directly damage electrical transmission lines and cause power outages, which can indirectly impact persons with chronic illnesses who depend on electricity for life support systems. Therefore, the project team marked both electrical transmission lines and persons with chronic illnesses who depend on life support systems as being potentially affected by severe weather, the project team evaluated them for their susceptibility to severe weather in the Vulnerability Assessment . Appendix C C -6 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 TABLE C-1: IMPACT SCORE RUBRIC IMPACT SCORE MEANING (PEOPLE AND ECOSYSTEMS) MEANING (BUILDINGS, INFRASTRUCTURE, SERVICES, AND ECONOMIC DRIVERS) IM0. Minimal Impact Community members may not notice any change. Damage, interruption in service, or impacts on the local economy are small or intermittent enough to mostly go unnoticed. IM1. Low Impact Community members notice minor effects. Daily life may experience mild, occasional disruptions. There are minor but noticeable interruptions in service, damage, or negative effects on the economy. IM2. Moderate Impact There is a marked impact to the community. Quality of life may decline. Impacts may be chronic, and at times substantial. Damage, service interruptions, and other impacts are clearly evident. Impacts may be chronic and occasionally substantial. IM3. Significant Impact The well-being of the community declines significantly. The community’s current lifestyle and behavior may no longer be possible. Impacts are chronic. Buildings, infrastructure, and services may be often or always unable to meet community demand. Large sections of the economy experience major hardships. IM4. Severe Impact There is a severe risk of widespread injury or death to people, or of significant or total ecosystem loss. Buildings, infrastructure, and services cannot function as intended or needed. Economic activities are not viable. Adaptive Capacity The project team next assessed the adaptive capacity of each population and asset for each relevant hazard. Using a similar process as the team used to analyzed impacts, the County considered various questions to help ensure that the adaptive capacity assessment addresses the full potential of a sensitivity to resist and recover from harm. Examples of these questions include: • Are there existing programs and policies to provide assistance? Can affected community members take advantage of these programs? • Are there barriers that limit response or recovery? Are these barriers financial limitations, political challenges, lack of access to technology or other resources, or others? Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -7 • For community assets, do alternatives exist in or near Contra Costa County that community members can use? Based on the results of the adaptive capacity (AC) assessment, the project team ranked each sensitivity on a five-point scale (0 - 4) ranging from AC0 (the lowest adaptive capacity) to AC4 (the highest adaptive capacity). Adaptive capacity is a positive quality, so a higher adaptive capacity score is better. As recommended by the APG, the project team adjusted the adaptive capacity scores to ensure that they reflect risk levels and onset periods. Table C-2 provides more detail about what each adaptive capacity score means. TABLE C-2: ADAPTIVE CAPACITY SCORE RUBRIC ADAPTIVE CAPACITY SCORE MEANING (ALL SENSITIVITIES) AC0. No Adaptive Capacity Currently, there are no feasible means of adapting. AC1. Low Adaptive Capacity Adaptive solutions are available, but they are expensive, technologically difficult, and/or politically unpopular. AC2. Some Adaptive Capacity Some adaptation methods are available, but not always feasible. Adapting may create significant challenges for some sensitivities. AC3. High Adaptive Capacity Adaptation solutions are feasible for most or all sensitivities. There may be occasional or small-scale challenges to implementing adaptation methods. AC4. Outstanding Adaptive Capacity Sensitivities can adapt with little or no effort. Quality of life is unchanged or may improve. Appendix C C -8 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Vulnerability Scoring The project team used the impact and adaptive capacity scores for each sensitivity and relevant exposure to determine a vulnerability score. The vulnerability (V) score reflects how susceptible the sensitivity is to be harmed by a particular exposure. Vulnerability is assessed on a scale of V1 to V5: Table C-3 shows how different impact and adaptive capacity scores translate to a vulnerability score. TABLE C-3: SCORING MATRIX IMPACT SCORE IM0 IM1 IM2 IM3 IM4 Adaptive Capacity Score AC0 V3 V4 V5 V5 V5 AC1 V2 V3 V4 V5 V5 AC2 V1 V2 V3 V4 V5 AC3 V1 V1 V2 V3 V4 AC4 V1 V1 V1 V2 V3 V1 Minimal vulnerability V2 Low vulnerability V3 Moderate vulnerability V4 High vulnerability V5 Severe vulnerability Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -9 Data Sources The County used data from a variety of credible sources to prepare the vulnerability assessment, determine the impact and adaptive capacity scores, and support conclusions. These resources include the following: • Scholarly Research: Much of the information came from an extensive body of scientific research that discusses how climate change may affect people and community assets. Much of this research is peer reviewed, which ensures greater accuracy, including studies published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Science, Geophysical Research Letters, and Climate Change journals. • Local Data: Regional government agencies have already prepared a number of plans and reports that support the vulnerability assessment or contain information relevant to the analysis. The County relied on several local plans and reports to prepare the vulnerability assessment, most notably the 2018 Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan and Contra Costa County Adapting to Rising Tides Project. • State and federal Data: The County supplemented the scholarly research and local data with data from State and federal agencies, including published reports and datasets. The County relied on information from several agencies, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the California Energy Commission, California Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES), the California Governor’s Office of Planning Resources (OPR), California Natural Resources Agency (CNRA), and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE). Population and Asset Consideration When selecting assets and populations to include in the vulnerability assessment, the County considered the following: • Sample pool: the sample pool is a subset of the overall group of people that are being measured or studied. For example, in a political poll among registered voters, the sample pool only includes registered voters, since unregistered voters do not fall into this category. This concept is important for the Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment because some of the demographics used in the Vulnerability Assessment have different sample pools. Most of the demographic data come from the US Census Bureau’s American Community Survey (ACS), and most of these data have a sample Appendix C C -10 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 pool of either all residents or all households in the county. However, a few are different. This does not affect the outcome of the Vulnerability Assessment, but it creates slight differences in the number of people counted as part of each population. Some of these differences in the sample pool size include: Data on persons with limited English proficiency only count people who are at least 14 years old instead of the total population, since young children generally are not proficient in any language. Statistics that only count the noninstitutionalized population (e.g., people not in prisons or long-term care homes). • Data limitations: The vulnerability assessment pulls data from a wide array of sources. The project team took care to only use reliable, credible sources with the best available information. In some cases, the vulnerability assessment is constrained by the lack of available high-quality information, such as the number of undocumented persons or outdoor workers. • Related assets: Throughout the 65 populations and assets in the vulnerability assessment, there are a few that may appear redundant. For example, the vulnerability assessment looks at both public safety buildings (as a Buildings asset) and at public safety response (as a Key Community Service asset). To be as comprehensive as possible, the vulnerability assessment looks at physical structures separately from the services or benefits they provide. Similarly, this assessment looks at vulnerable people separately from the homes they live in or the industries where they are employed. This is because the effects of climate change on one type of population or asset can be different from the effects on related populations and assets. POPULATION VULNERABILITIES A number of factors can contribute to differences in climate change vulnerability across age, occupation, socio-economic status, and lifestyle conditions. The four primary overarching drivers of climate change vulnerability for populations are: • Physiology: Older individuals, children, individuals with disabilities, and those who are immunocompromised or with chronic health conditions may be more physically susceptible to the health effects of heat, wildfire smoke exposure, and human health hazards. These individuals may encounter barriers to evacuating in the event of a fire, flood, or other emergency. Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -11 • Access to financial resources: Low-income households, households in poverty, and those with precarious employment may struggle to acquire the financial resources necessary to prepare for and recover from the effects of climate change. • Exposure: Outdoor workers and those in low-resilience or precarious housing are more likely to be directly exposed to effects of climate change such as high heat, poor air quality, severe storms, and flooding. • Exclusion and social isolation: Individuals who are physically or socially isolated from the rest of the community, especially from community decision-making, may lack communication or transportation access, face language or cultural barriers, or may lack social connections. Excluded and isolated persons are often at risk because they are overlooked in community planning and are less able to access supportive resources. A given individual or community may experience more than one of these underlying contributors to climate change vulnerability. These underlying contributors are often structural in nature. This means that, in order for these vulnerabilities to be comprehensively addressed, community members and policymakers must look beyond the level of individual choice and actively investigate how federal, state, and local economic, health and safety, and housing policy can both exacerbate vulnerability and help resolve it. Some of Contra Costa County’s most vulnerable communities and the climate hazards to which they are most vulnerable are highlighted below: Children Under 10 Children are considered those that are 10 years of age or younger. According to the 2017 ACS, approximately 20,500 children live within the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County, or approximately 12 percent of the total population. High concentrations of children live in parts of Concord, Richmond, Pittsburg, Brentwood, and San Ramon. On average, children spend more time than adults outdoor, which leaves them more susceptible to allergens and pollution from poor air quality and wildfire.1 Poor air quality can cause asthma and lung diseases, in addition to exacerbating existing conditions that children may have.2 Infants and young children are physiologically less able to regulate their body temperature than adults, and children also may not recognize the need to hydrate and cool down when overheated. Schools or daycares where children spend a majority of their time could be damaged by a flood or landslide.3 Children could have to stay home, which may have greater economic challenges as parents would also have to Appendix C C -12 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 stay home or find daycare options for their children. Children could also be swept away and drown from flood waters. Air Quality Wildfire Extreme Heat Shoreline Flooding Flooding Landslides and Debris Flows Households in Poverty Households with an income below the poverty line, which is $24,300 for a household of four people. Approximately 7,600 households in Contra Costa County live in poverty, or approximately 12 percent of total households for which poverty status can be determined. Within Contra Costa County, the areas with the highest concentrations of poverty occur in central Richmond, North Richmond and San Pablo, tracts of Concord and Martinez, and in Bay Point, Pittsburg, and Antioch. Air Quality Households in poverty are located within areas that currently have high levels of DPM, PM 2.5, and high ground-level ozone concentrations, which can worsen as air temperatures continue to increase.4 Households in poverty are likely to be more exposed to poor air quality due to lack of vegetation and trees and lower access to air conditioning.5, 6 Persons in these households may become more susceptible to respiratory and cardiovascular related illnesses.7 Extreme Heat Poverty is associated with greater vulnerability to heat in a number of ways. The long-standing association between low-income and poor health outcomes, as well as pre-existing health conditions among people in poverty, play a key role in vulnerability. Impoverished and low-income people who are uninsured may be less likely to seek medical help if they do become ill, may live in poorly insulated housing, and may also be less likely to use fans or air conditioning out of concern for high utility bills. During extreme heat days, temperatures in uninsulated homes may reach unhealthy temperatures. Households in poverty are located throughout the County, however those in central and eastern Contra Costa may face the greatest exposure from extreme heat. Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -13 Shoreline Flooding Flooding Households in poverty affected by coastal flooding are primarily located within North Richmond, Bay Point, and the tracts and islands in the Delta.8 Most of the households in poverty are located within or near 100-year flood zones.9 Flooding can damage homes, cause mildew and mold to grow, destroy infrastructure, and contaminate water supplies. Human Health Hazards Households in poverty may be living in conditions that increase the chances of catching a vector-borne illness, pathogens, or diseases. Households in poverty may be disproportionately affected higher rates of pollution and poor air quality. Landslides and Debris Flows Households in poverty may live in homes that are less structurally sound. Rodeo, Crockett, Bay Point, and Port Costa have a high concentration of households in poverty and also have high landslide susceptibility areas.10, 11 Landslides can damage the foundations of homes or destroy them completely.12 Sea Level Rise Vine Hill, Bay Point, and North Richmond households in poverty may be affected by sea level rise. Households in poverty may live in structures that are not waterproofed or built above the current 100-year flood elevation.13 These households are more likely to live in low-lying areas that are already subject to flooding, which may worsen as sea levels rise. Severe Storms Households in poverty may live in structures that are less resilient to severe weather.14 This increases the likelihood that high winds, thunderstorms, and heavy rain storms can damage their homes or cause mold or mildew growth. Persons living in these households can be physically harmed or experience a decrease in quality of life due to severe weather. Appendix C C -14 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Wildfire Households in poverty may be subject to greater damage from wildfires, due to financial limitations or neighborhood characteristics that make it difficult to maintain defensible space in fire-prone areas. Some households in poverty are located within the wildland-urban interface, which is the most susceptible to damage from wildfires.15 Smoke and ash from wildfires can also harm households in poverty. Low-Income Households Households with an income of 80 percent or less of the median income, which is approximately $104,400 in Contra Costa County. Approximately 25,340 households or 41 percent of all households in the County are within the low-income category. Low-income households may have fewer financial resources to devote to preparing for and recovering from the effects of climate change. Many low-income households are located within or near a flood zone or dam inundation area, especially in north and east county.16 High concentrations of low-income households vulnerable to shoreline flooding occur in Rodeo, Crockett, the islands in the Delta, and Discovery Bay.17 Low-income households may live in structures that are not waterproofed or built above the current 100-year flood elevation.18 Coastal flooding can damage homes, cause mildew and mold to grow, and destroy infrastructure. Shoreline Flooding Flooding Outdoor Workers People who mostly work outdoor, including construction workers, agricultural workers, and people who work at outdoor recreation centers throughout Contra Costa County. Agricultural Pests and Diseases Outdoor workers may not be directly affected by agricultural pests and diseases. However, outdoor workers can be indirectly affected due to damage to crops and vineyards within the County. This can reduce work opportunities and create economic hardship for outdoor workers. Those working outside of agriculture may not be impacted by agricultural pests and diseases. Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -15 Air Quality Outdoor workers are directly exposed to poor air quality due to the nature of their occupation. Exposure to increased pesticides, ground level ozone concentrations, and particulate matter can lead to asthma, lung disease, cardiovascular health risks.19 If outdoor work is stopped due to poor air quality, outdoor workers may face economic hardship. Drought Drought can reduce water availability for agricultural operations, parks, and recreation areas, which can indirectly harm outdoor workers. Agricultural operations and Delta recreational opportunities can be halted, which may cause outdoor workers to lose jobs. Extreme Heat Outdoor workers in the agriculture, construction, building maintenance, landscaping and refinery operations fields are disproportionately impacted by extreme heat because they are required to be outside and risk heat exhaustion from exertion at jobs.20 Outdoor work is often physically intense, increasing the risk of individuals suffering heat-related medical complications. Outdoor work may also be halted during high temperatures, which can cause significant economic hardships. Persons Experiencing Homelessness Persons who do not have a permanent home, including those who live in their vehicles or temporary shelters. There are approximately 2,230 persons experiencing homelessness in Contra Costa County, according to the County’s 2018 homeless count, although most of these persons are likely in incorporated communities. Persons experiencing homelessness lack permanent, and often temporary, shelter, and therefore are more exposed to climate change impacts. Most of the homeless encampments within Contra Costa County occur along the coastline and near or within coastal flood areas.21 Coastal flooding and sea level rise can destroy homeless encampments and homeless facilities near the shoreline, creating additional hardships for persons experiencing homelessness. These events could become more frequent as sea levels rise and coastal storms intensify. Appendix C C -16 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Persons experiencing homelessness, especially those in central and east county, face greater exposure to extreme heat because they lack access to permanent, and often temporary shelter. Dehydration is common among homeless persons, which makes health - related complications from extreme heat more likely. Homeless persons are more likely to suffer respiratory infections, which are exacerbated by extreme heat. Homeless persons on medication are also at greater risk from extreme heat, as some medication interferes with the body's ability to maintain a safe internal temperature during times of extreme temperatures. Homeless persons may face a significant decline in health due to direct exposure to poor air quality that can cause reduced lung function, pneumonia, asthma, and cardio-vascular-related morbidity.22 Homeless encampments located near Bay Point and other wildland-urban interface areas may also be in danger of being burned in the event of a wildfire.23 Air Quality Shoreline Flooding Extreme Heat Flooding Human Health Hazards Sea Level Rise Severe Weather Wildfire Persons Living on Single Access Roads Persons living in areas with a sole route in and out of the neighborhood or area. Several neighborhoods and communities in the Delta and in the hillside areas of central and western Contra Costa County are only accessible via one roadway. Flooding events, landslides, and wildfire can block, damage, and destroy roadways that are essential for persons living on single access roads. Bethel Island and Delta islands are accesible by single access roads, and many residential areas with single access roads are in the hilly areas in the center of the County. If roadways become impassable, persons living on single access roads can become isolated from the community and emergency services may not be able to reach these communities. Those that are not connected to urban water systems can also have water contamination.24 Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -17 Shoreline Flooding Flooding Landslides and Debris Flows Sea Level Rise Wildfire Persons with Chronic Illnesses People who have a long-term or permanent health condition that can create regular challenges in their day-to-day lives. These health problems include cancer, asthma, heart disease, and arthritis. Air Quality Persons with chronic illnesses may face increased health risks during poor air quality conditions. Poor air quality can exacerbate existing conditions such as asthma and respiratory illnesses, in addition to cause pneumonia.25 Shoreline Flooding Persons with chronic illnesses, such as cardiovascular diseases and asthma, that may experience coastal flooding are primarily located in Rodeo, Bay Point, and the islands and tracts in the Delta region on the County.26 Persons with chronic illnesses may live in homes that are not flood-proofed and can have mold growth or be damaged during coastal flooding. Extreme Heat Persons with chronic health problems, including cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease and diabetes, may face a significantly elevated risk of heat-related illness and death during extreme heat events.27 Extreme heat can exacerbate existing conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, respiratory ailments, and cerebrovascular diseases.28 29 30 Persons with chronic illnesses may also be on medication that can reduce the ability of the body to maintain a safe internal temperature.31 Human Health Hazards Persons with chronic illnesses may have weaker immune systems due to pre-existing conditions that make it more difficult to fight off new illnesses.32 Allergens and vector-borne illnesses can exacerbate existing illnesses, which can create difficulties in existing or new treatment. Appendix C C -18 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Severe Storms Severe weather may cause power outages throughout the County, which can affect the life support systems that persons with chronic illnesses may rely on.33 Wildfire Wildfires can create smoke that travels 50-100 miles of the fire, which can exacerbate illnesses that persons with chronic illnesses have and cause asthma, acute bronchitis, chronic obstructive disease, pneumonia.34 Persons with Limited English Proficiency This group includes people who say they do not speak English “well” or “very well,” although the Census Bureau does not formally define what these terms mean. The 2017 ACS reports that approximately 10,060 people in Contra Costa County who are at least 5 years old have limited English proficiency, or approximately 6 percent of the total population. Other languages spoken in the County are primarily Spanish, Mandarin, Cantonese, Tagalog, and Persian. The highest proportion of households with limited English proficiency occur in Richmond, Concord, and San Pablo. Air Quality Persons with limited English proficiency are more likely to live in areas that have poor air quality, such as particulate matter and lower level ozone. Exposure to increased ground level ozone concentrations and particulate matter can lead to asthma, lung disease, and cardiovascular health risks.35 They may also not be aware of air quality warnings or other alerts. Flooding Severe Storms Persons with limited English proficiency are more likely to be in low- income areas, which are also more likely to be located in low-lying areas. Flooding from atmospheric rivers can damage homes and cause them to become uninhabitable or unhealthy to live in. Homes are also more likely to be damaged by high winds or hail events. Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -19 Human Health Hazards Persons with limited English proficiency may work outdoors or live in conditions that make them more susceptible to vector-borne illnesses or diseases. These conditions could exacerbate existing illnesses. Wildfire Persons with limited English proficiency may not have control over their homes or live in neighborhoods that make it difficult to maintain defensible space. These persons may live in the wildland-urban interface or may not have shelter from smoke conditions. Persons Without Access to Lifelines These are individuals who do not have access to basic technology or services, such as transportation or modern communication. These persons may live in areas where these lifelines are not available or feasible, may not be able to afford these lifelines, or for personal reason may choose not to have them. While data is not available on all persons without lifelines, the 2017 ACS reports that approximately 2,850 households in Contra Costa County do not have vehicles, or approximately 5 percent of all households. Persons without access to lifelines, such as cars and communication systems, may encounter barriers in preparing for and responding to emergency events. They may be unaware of an approaching emergency, may be unable to evacuate in a timely manner, and may become isolated if power services or transit systems are not working. Areas where large numbers of households do not have access to private vehicles may be important sites to strengthen public transit and also to provide mass transportation options to cooling centers during extreme heat events. Areas with clusters of households that do not have access to a vehicle occur in Concord, Richmond, Martinez, and San Pablo. Shoreline flooding Flooding Wildfire Appendix C C -20 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Seniors Seniors are defied as persons 65 years of age or older. The 2017 ACS reports that there are approximately 26,110 seniors in Contra Costa County, or approximately 15 percent of the total population. Some areas within Contra Costa County, including central Contra Costa County, Bethel Island, the eastern part of Richmond, and several parts of Walnut Creek, have particularly high concentrations of seniors due to both institutional and residential retirement communities. People living in supportive senior housing, such as Rossmoor, may have access to protective resources, including staff paying attention to their well- being. Seniors’ physiology makes these individuals especially vulnerable to the health effects associated with poor air quality, extreme heat, and wildfire exposure. Meanwhile, physical limitations may make it harder for seniors to evacuate in the event of an emergency. Communities with high concentrations of seniors are primarily located on the hillsides in Contra Costa County, which are within high landslide susceptibility areas and are at elevated wildfire risk.36 Air quality Extreme Heat Landslides and Debris Flows Wildfire Seniors Living Alone This group includes senior citizens who are the only people living in their homes, although they may have one or more caretaker. According to the 2017 ACS, approximately 5,070 senior citizens live alone in Contra Costa County, or approximately 19 percent of seniors. Like other seniors, seniors living alone may be especially vulnerable to the health effects associated with high heat, poor air quality, and wildfire smoke. Seniors living alone generally face elevated overall vulnerability compared to other seniors because they may lack access to social connections and community support to assist in preparing for and responding to emergency events, evacuating, improving home resiliency, managing medical needs, and locating support services. These individuals may be especially isolated in the event of a power outage or road closure. Communities with high concentrations of Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -21 seniors are primarily located on the hillsides in Contra Costa, which are within high landslide susceptibility and wildfire risk areas.37 Air Quality Shoreline Flooding Extreme Heat Flooding Human Health Hazards Landslides and Debris Flows Severe Weather Wildfire Undocumented Persons This group includes people who do not have formal permission to live in the United States (they do not have citizenship, permanent residency, visas, or other similar status). There are no official counts of how many undocumented persons live in Contra Costa County, but a 2017 study estimated that the total number of undocumented persons in Contra Costa County (including those living in incorporated areas) was 77,500. Many undocumented persons have outdoor occupations or work in highly unregulated environments, which leaves them susceptible to harm from extreme heat conditions, exposure to poor air quality, and exposure to diease vectors such as ticks and mosquitoes. Outdoor work is often physically intense, increasing the risk of individuals suffering heat- related medical complications. Outdoor work may also be halted during high temperatures, which can cause significant economic hardships. Undocumented agricultural workers may face economic hardship if crops, vineyards, or rangeland are damaged by agricultural pests and diseases. Agricultural workers who are undocumented are more likely to be let go when farms experience economic hardship. Undocumented persons are most likely to fall in the households in poverty or low-income categories, and are more likely to live in low-lying areas that may be inundated during flooding or damaged by severe weather. Undocumented persons may live in structures that are not waterproofed or built above the current 100-year flood elevation.38 Flooding can damage homes, cause mildew and mold to grow, and destroy infrastructure. Appendix C C -22 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Agricultural pests and diseases Air Quality Shoreline Flooding Extreme Heat Flooding Human Health Hazards Landslides and Debris Flows Severe Weather Wildfire INFRASTRUCTURE VULNERABILITIES Bridges Bridges may carry roads, rails, or trails. In Contra Costa County, these range from the large, state-owned bridges that carry interstate freeways, to locally owned bridges that carry rural roads and pedestrians over small creeks. There are over 400 bridges countywide, with approximately 80 owned by the Contra Costa County and approximately 160 owned by Caltrans. Damage to bridges could interrupt local and regional transportation patterns, disrupting economic activity and potentially emergency response. Bridge damage or failure could also lead to injury or loss of life. Shoreline Flooding According to the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan, 8 bridges are within the coastal flood zones within the County, including 4 on local roads, 3 on Interstate 680, and 1 on State Route 4 west bound.39 Major bridges include the Benecia-Martinez Bridge and the Carquinez Bridge, which are major transportation routes within the Bay Area. Additional bridges that provide key linkages are the Highway 160 bridge and Bethel Island bridge. Damage to these bridges would cause major congestion on other roadways and bridges in the County.40 Failure of the Bethel Island bridge could also leave residents and business owners stranded on the island. Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -23 Flooding There are 26 bridges within the 100-year flood zone and dam inundation areas.41 Some of these bridges are located in low-lying areas that could become covered in floodwater. Landslides and Debris Flows Forty bridges, including those on State Route 4 and Interstates 80 and 680 are within the moderate to very high landslide areas.42 Landslides can cause these bridges to become unstable and fail. Severe Storms Bridges may be damaged or periodically closed due to severe weather.43 Electricity Transmission and Distribution Lines Electrical transmission and distribution lines are power lines that carry high-voltage electricity long distances between power plants and electricity customers. There are transmission lines located throughout the county, primarily owned by Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E). Other transmission lines in eastern Contra Costa County are owned by the Western Area Power Administration (WAPA) and the Transmission Agency of Northern California.44 Extreme Heat Extreme heat conditions may most likely affect electricity transmission and distribution lines in east and central Contra Costa, as temperatures in those areas are projected to increase substantially on extreme heat days. Extreme heat can cause an increase in air conditioning use, which can stress and overload the grid, subsequently causing power outages and damage to the lines. Landslides and Debris Flows Many electrical transmission lines pass over hills and mountains in east and west Contra Costa and are also within high landslide potential areas.45 Landslides can damage or destroy the power lines and towers that support them. These power lines carry electricity to other regions in the Bay Area and could cause widespread power outages if multiple lines are disrupted at the same time. Appendix C C -24 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Severe Storms Electricity transmission and distribution lines can be damaged or destroyed by high velocity winds. This can cause secondary impacts such as power outages, that would impact County residents and businesses. Wildfire Several electrical transmission and distribution lines go through mountainous areas that are within high fire hazard severity zones. Electrical transmission lines and the poles that support them can be damaged or destroyed by the flames and high temperatures created by wildfires. This can cause residents and businesses within the County to lose power if electricity lines fail. This can cause economic hardship and potential public safety concerns. Flood Control Infrastructure Flood control infrastructure includes levees, dikes, and drainage channels, and other infrastructure meant to help prevent the creeks, Delta, and other water bodies throughout Contra Costa County from overflowing their banks and causing floods. The Contra Costa County Flood Control District is the agency responsible for local flood control projects. Many of the levees and drainage facilities in the Delta region of the county are privately owned and operated. Levees near North Richmond, Vine Hill, and the Delta could all be damaged and/or overtopped due to the increase in tidal levels from a coastal storm. Coastal storms can damage or destroy levees and other flood-control infrastructure, making them unable to function as intended or needed. Sea level rise may exacerbate these effects. Shoreline Flooding Sea Level Rise Major Roads and Highways Major roads and highways within Contra Costa County include Interstates 80, 680, and 580; State Routes 4, 24, and 123; and local roads such as Richmond Parkway, San Pablo Avenue, San Pablo Dam Road, Ygnacio Valley Road and Kirker Pass, Vasco Road, Byron Highway, Marsh Creek Road, and Morgan Territory Road. Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -25 Shoreline Flooding Flooding Sea Level Rise Major regional roadways, including Interstates 680 and 80, as well as State Route 4 are within flooding zones. Interstates 680 and 80 and State Route 160 are within sea level rise inundation areas. Flooding to these roadways, in addition to major local roadways could cause major disruptions to local and regional transportation, transit, and commuters.46 Large sections of the economy could face economic hardship if commuters in the Bay Area are unable to reach their jobs and communities are isolated because of flooding. Landslides and Debris Flows Major roadways, such as Interstate 80 and 680, and State Routes 4 and 24 are within high landslide susceptibility areas47. These roadways could be damaged and become impassable, including the fourth bore of the Caldecott Tunnel. This could substantially disrupt regional transportation and connections between Contra Costa County and the rest of the Bay Area. Wildfire State Route 4, 24, and Interstate 80 go through moderate to very high fire hazard zones within Contra Costa48. Wildfires can damage roadways and cause road closures, which can cause major disruption to commute and traffic patterns in the Bay Area. Closure of Highway 4 and 24 may prevent those living in eastern and central Contra Costa from traveling to west Contra Costa County. Railroads and BART There are three standard rail lines that run through Contra Costa County. The rail lines are operated by Union Pacific, Burlington Northern Santa Fe, and Richmond Pacific Railroad Corporation that run along the western, northern, and eastern boundaries on the county along Interstate 80, State Route 4, and Byron Highway.49 Each rail line is used for freight trains, and the Capitol Corridor commuter train runs along the Union Pacific railway. The Bay Area Rapid Transit District (BART) operates its own separate rail lines which are used exclusively for public transit. There are two BART rain lines in Contra Costa County, one Appendix C C -26 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 beginning in Richmond and heading south toward Berkeley, and the second in the central part of the county extending from Orinda to Antioch. Shoreline Flooding Flooding Sea Level Rise Amtrak, freight lines, and BART are within the flood areas within coastal and northern of Contra Costa.50 Flooding can damage the track bed and ballast material, and the entire system could shut down. Some of these rail lines, including the Martinez and Antioch Amtrak stations, rail lines along Bay Point, Montalvin Manor, Rodeo, Port Costa serve as first line of defense to coastal flooding for communities.51 Damage to the rail and BART lines could mean disruptions to regional transit networks that are essential for economic activity.52 Landslides and Debris Flows The North Concord/Martinez BART station, Martinez Amtrak station, Pittsburg/Bay Point BART station, and Lafayette BART station, in addition to the adjacent rail lines are within moderate to high landslide susceptibility zones.53 Landslides could damage the tracks or destroy a station, which could prevent rail cars from passing through the station in either direction. This could limit transit opportunities within east and west county. Single Access Roads These are roadways that are one of few, or the only, ways in and out of some communities of neighborhoods. The single or limited number of entry and exit points does not make the road itself more vulnerable than other roads, but the loss of these roadways can effectively cut off large number of people from the rest of Contra Costa County. Single access roadways are primarily located in Bay shoreline and Delta fronting neighborhoods, as well as communities located on the San Pablo Ridge, Canyon, and Briones Hills. Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -27 Single access roads can be damaged or blocked by falling trees, flooding, landslides, and wildfire. Single access roads are primarily located in hillside community that are also within high or very high fire hazard severity zones.54 Within these forested areas, trees can be damaged by redwood bark beetle or sudden oak death. These diseases can weaken trees can cause them to fall on and damage roadways. Single access roads in Bay Point, Bethel Island, and in the Delta may be affected by coastal flooding; single access roads throughout the County are located within the 100 and 500 year floodplain. Single access roads can become inundated and be damaged by a flood event, especially those that rely on bridges that cross through the Delta. This can leave residents and business owners stranded and isolated during a flood. Damage to or blockage of a single access road can leave residents stranded during an emergency and can inconvenience residents and businesses that rely on access to these roads. Agricultural pests and diseases Shoreline Flooding Flooding Landslides and Debris Flows Wildfire Wastewater Treatment Plants These facilities treat wastewater so it can be safely discharged into the environment. There are 10 wastewater treatment plants in the county, which treat wastewater for people living in cities and unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County.55 Failure of these treatment plants could cause sewer systems to backup and potentially contaminate streams and water systems with raw sewage. Shoreline Flooding Three wastewater treatment plants (WWTP): Rodeo sewage treatment plant, West Contra Costa Wastewater, and Mt View Sanitary District are within low lying or coastal flooding areas.56 Coastal flooding can exacerbate wet weather flows into the treatment plants with higher levels of stormwater and rising sea levels, which can prevent the system from functioning properly.57 Pumps and control panels that are not waterproofed or salt-resistant could also fail. Appendix C C -28 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Flooding Two WWTPs are within the 100 & 500 year floodplain, one WWTP is within dam inundation zone, including the West Contra Costa and Pinole Hercules plants.58 Sea Level Rise Three wastewater treatment plants: Rodeo sewage treatment plant, West Contra Costa Wastewater, and Mt View Sanitary District are within low lying areas along the shoreline.59 Inundation due to sea level rise can exacerbate wet weather flows into the treatment plants with higher levels of stormwater and rising sea levels, which can prevent the system from functioning properly.60 Pumps and control panels that are not waterproofed or salt-resistant could also fail. Water and Wastewater Infrastructure These facilities convey water from water treatment plants for public use and convey wastewater to wastewater treatment plants through sewer systems. This includes piping, pump stations, wells, and septic systems. The Mokelumne Aqueduct could be exposed to coastal flooding if the Delta levees fail.61 Contra Costa Canal and the Clifton Court Forebay are also within the coastal flooding area. If the levees fail during a coastal flooding events, these pieces of infrastructure would also fail, and fresh water would become contaminated with salt water, reducing the amount of suitable drinking water and agricultural water. This could halt economic activities in Contra Costa and the greater California area. These hazards could be exacerbated by sea level rise. Shoreline Flooding Flooding Sea Level Rise Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -29 BUILDING VULNERABILITIES Industrial Buildings These are buildings that contain industrial and manufacturing uses and businesses. There are approximately 270 industrial buildings in the unincorporated area of Contra Costa County. Shoreline Flooding Approximately 61 industrial buildings in Contra Costa County are within coastal flooding areas.62 Coastal flooding can cause damage to industrial structures and increase the potential for hazardous materials release that would contaminate soil, water, and air in surrounding areas.63 Industrial structures that are currently outside of the 100-year flood zone are also unlikely to be waterproofed or flood resistant.64 Flooding There are 68 industrial buildings within the 500-year floodplain and 99 industrial buildings within a dam inundation area65. This includes 5 hazardous materials facilities that could potentially release toxic substances into the ground, air, and water if damaged.66 Landslides and Debris Flow There are 34 industrial structures within landslide-prone areas.67 Landslides can disturb holding tanks or damage industrial buildings, and cause chemicals to be released into the air, water, or ground in the surrounding areas. Sea Level Rise Approximately 44 industrial buildings in Contra Costa County are within sea level rise inundation areas.68, 69 Sea level rise can cause damage to industrial structures over time and increase the potential for hazardous materials release that would contaminate soil, water, and air in surrounding areas due to high mean high tide levels.70 Industrial structures that are currently outside of the 100-year flood zone are also unlikely to be waterproofed or flood resistant.71 Wildfire There are 24 industrial buildings within the fire hazard zone.72 Wildfires can damage holding tanks or manufacturing centers that contain harmful chemicals. Damage to these facilities can release toxic materials into the air, water, and soil of the surrounding communities. Appendix C C -30 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 ECONOMIC DRIVER VULNERABILITIES Agriculture This category includes field crops (such as tomatoes, sweet corn, and other vegetables), fruit and nut orchards, vineyards, and plant nurseries. These agricultural operations are primarily location in eastern Contra Costa County, between Mt. Diablo State Park and the Delta. In 2017, farms and orchards produced approximately $95 million in agricultural products.73 Agricultural Pests and Diseases Agriculture within Contra Costa County can be affected by fungal pathogens and invasive disease vectors, which could affect agriculture as an economic asset.74 Pests and diseases can affect the quality or viability of crops and vineyards that are within the county. Impacts could become chronic as conditions continue to change and warmer temperatures persist. Shoreline Flooding Agricultural land in the eastern and Delta portions of the County are within the coastal flood zone. Coastal flooding can inundate farmland and damage or destroy crops. Damage to the fresh water canals and aqueducts could also severely harm the agriculture industry. Eastern Contra Costa County may face significant economic hardship if agriculture is not viable. Drought Agriculture may be directly harmed from drought conditions due to an increase in soil salinity, topsoil erosion, and reduced water supply.75 This can limit crop production and in turn result in a loss of income for agriculture owners. The economy in eastern Contra Costa can be especially harmed by limited water for agricultural production. Extreme Heat Extreme heat conditions can damage crops or reduce yield, which can create economic hardships in eastern Contra Costa. High heat conditions can also make crops more difficult to manage, and can lead to die off of crops. Wine grapes are expected to experience a decline in fruit quality due to extreme heat.76 Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -31 Flooding Agriculture within Contra Costa is located in low-lying areas that are in both the floodable areas and dam inundation areas. Flooding can cause significant damage to crop production because they can damage plants, wash away topsoil nutrients, and degrade essential microbial activity. This can harm plants and reduce agricultural productivity, subsequently harming the agricultural economy in east Contra Costa.77 Sea Level Rise Agricultural land in the eastern and Delta portions of the County are within the sea level rise inundation area. Sea level rise can inundate farmland creating higher salinity water and soils. Water supplies, including groundwater, can also experience salt water intrusion, which can be damaging to crops that do not grow in high salt conditions. Damage to the fresh water canals and aqueducts could also severly harm the agriculture industry. Eastern Contra Costa County may face significant economic hardship if agriculture is not viable. Severe Storms High winds, hail, and thunderstorms can decimate agricultural operations. Crops can be flattened by high velocity winds and food crops can be damaged by hail.78 This can severely damage the agricultural economy in east Contra Costa and bring economic hardship to farm owners in that area. Wildfire Smoke and ash can damage crops, farms, and agricultural fields in Contra Costa County. While many of the agricultural areas are outside of fire hazard zones, smoke and ash can change crops such as wine grapes and change nutrients in the soil.79 This may cause plants to die or not produce as many useable fruits. This can cause major economic hardship for farmers. Industrial and Manufacturing Centers (including oil refineries) Industrial and manufacturing centers include facilities that have light and heavy industrial and manufacturing businesses. In the unincorporated areas in Contra Costa County, these centers are located in North Richmond, Rodeo, Crockett, Bay Point, Pacheco, and Clyde. Oil refineries are included in this category, as they are industrial facilities where crude oil is Appendix C C -32 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 processed into gasoline and industrial byproducts for a variety of retail and wholesale markets. There are three of these facilities in the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County, which are in Rodeo, Pacheco, and Martinez (straddling the City/County boundaries). Shoreline Flooding Flooding Sea Level Rise The majority of these centers are located within the coastal flood hazard areas along the bayfront and Delta in western and northern Contra Costa County, with additional centers located within the flood hazard zones on the northern and western edges of the county. Industrial and manufacturing centers can be damaged by flooding, which could result in lost productivity, jobs, and income sources for employees. Coastal flooding hazards could be exacerbated by sea level rise. Landslides and Debris Flows Industrial and manufacturing centers, including oil refineries, are located within the landslide prone areas on the northern and western edges of Contra Costa.80 Landslides can damage these facilities and cause hazardous material release that can harms the oil refining industry and also the surrounding communities. Impacts may become chronic if landslides increase. Wildfire Few industrial and manufacturing centers are located within fire hazard severity zones. However, oils refineries and holding tanks can be damaged by wildfires, which can cause hazardous materials to be released into the surrounding air, water, and soil. This can negatively impact both economic and public health. Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -33 Rangeland Rangeland are lands where many livestock species, including cattle, are raised. Rangeland is primarily located in eastern Contra Costa County. In 2017, rangeland produced approximately $26 million in livestock products. 81 Drought Rangeland is primarily located on grassland habitats, which can lose topsoil and productivity due to the drier conditions created by droughts.82 This can reduce the available foraging habitat for livestock and cause economic hardship for rangeland owners. Extreme Heat Extreme heat is very harmful to livestock animals, especially cattle. Temperatures above 100 degrees can create heat stress, increase the risk of infection, reduce milk production and fertility, and may lead to death of animals. Animals that are already stressed by existing illnesses are at the highest risk. Flooding Rangeland located on Bethel Island and the Delta areas are within the 100-year floodplain and dam inundation areas. Flood waters can damage important rangeland infrastructure and the natural grassland that feeds to cattle and livestock83. This can harm the local economy in east County. Regional Parks Regional parks within Contra Costa County are scattered throughout the county. East Bay Regional Park District operates over 113,000 acres of regional parkland in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties.84 Sea Level Rise Regional shorelines and parks on the Bay/Delta could be permanently inundated by sea level rise. This could make the regional parks unusable and the parks may not be able to meet the demands of the public. Wildfire Many regional parks within the County are located within high or very high fire hazard severity zones.85 Wildfires can destroy park facilities, damage trails and walking paths, and damage scenic views and vistas within these parks. This may reduce the number of visitors to the parks, as they may not be as desirable to visit. Appendix C C -34 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 The Delta The Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta (Delta) spans from Pittsburg in the west, Locke in the east, Sacramento to the North, and Tracy to the south. The Delta primarily encompasses the northern and easternmost borders of Contra Costa County and provides opportunities for boating, fishing, transportation, and a water source for the County. Air Quality The Delta supports fishing, water recreation, and park activities that could be curtailed due to poor air quality.86 Those who rely on the Delta could have a periodic loss of economic activity as long as poor air quality curtails outdoor and water recreation. Shoreline Flooding The Delta, including marinas, harbors, farmland, and recreational opportunities may be continuously flooded and inundated by coastal storms. This can significantly reduce the economic viability of the Delta due to damage to ecosystems, recreation facilities such as marinas and harbors, and farmland on the islands and tracts within the Delta. Drought Reduced streamflow and water quality can decrease both commercial fishing, agricultural production, and recreational opportunities in the Delta.87 Certain fish species may die off if water conditions change and high salinity water may not be able to be used for agricultural production.88 Extreme Heat The Delta supports fishing, water recreation, and park activities that could be curtailed due to extreme heat.89 Extreme heat may also alter the water quality, cause water temperatures to rise, and cause fish die off and algae growth. Sea Level Rise The Delta, including marinas, harbors, farmland, and recreational opportunities may be continuously flooded and inundated by sea level rise. This can significantly reduce the economic viability of the Delta due to damage to ecosystems, recreation facilities such as marinas and harbors, and farmland on the islands and tracts within the Delta. Salt water may also travel farther into the Delta, disrupting water quality and fish/wildlife populations. Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -35 Severe Storms Severe weather can damage harbors, marinas, outdoor recreation centers within the Delta, which can harm both the fishery and recreation based economies in the Delta. Severe storms can also damage bridges that connect islands and tracks within the Delta, which can isolate them from other areas in the region. ECOSYSTEM AND NATURAL RESOURCE VULNERABILITIES Aquatic Aquatic habitat includes streams, reservoirs, ponds, and sloughs or channels. This ecosystem includes the Delta and shoreline areas that are submerged by water. In Contra Costa County, the three large reservoirs include San Pablo Reservoir, Briones Reservoir, and Los Vaqueros Reservoir. Aquatic wildlife species include various duck species, California red-legged frog, western pond turtle, and juvenile and spawning adult Chinook salmon. 90 Drought Drought can cause lower water levels and water quality, in addition to raising water temperatures in aquatic habitats. These conditions can cause algal blooms in Delta areas, harm salmonid populations, and cause system wide failures.91, 92 Lower dissolved oxygen levels and increased algae growth can also harm a variety of aquatic species.93 Extreme Heat Extreme heat events can cause water temperatures in aquatic habitats to rise, which can alter water quality and other water characteristics. Native fish species may have a more difficult time surviving in warmer waters and non-native species may out compete native species.94 Landslides and Debris Flows Aquatic habitat within landslide prone areas includes lakes and streams, which are in the central and western parts of the county. Landslides can cause streams to be blocked and significantly affect fish and wildlife habitat through additional debris in aquatic systems.95 Appendix C C -36 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Sea Level Rise Sea level rise may push salt water into the Delta aquatic system, which may degrade the water quality and harm fish and other aquatic organisms.96 Aquatic habitats may also be harmed if industrial/oil facilities are inundated, as hazardous materials could be released into the soils and water.97 Riparian Woodland and Shrub Riparian woodland and shrub ecosystems consist of Valley foothill riparian, undetermined shrub, and riverine habitat. These areas are scattered throughout Contra Costa County and have wildlife species such as gray fox, striped skunk, broad-handed mole, mule deer, dusky-footed woodrat, yellow warbler, northern flicker, white tailed kite, and Cooper’s hawk. 98 Drought Drought conditions can cause smaller streams to run dry, which can subsequently harm the plants and animal habitat within the ecosystem. Trees may not have adequate water during drought periods, which can lead to pests and diseases destroying important habitat for the Gray fox, Cooper's hawk, and mule deer.99 Soil erosion can also occur on the banks of streams.100 Severe Storms Severe storms can cause trees to fall in riparian ecosystems, which can disrupt the flow of water through the systems and impact aquatic wildlife in the streams. Wildfire Riparian ecosystems can be harmed by wildfires due to loss of canopy and changes in soil structure, erosion, and shifts in specific composition due to changes in habitat structure.101 Impacts may become chronic as wildfire frequency increases. Wetland Wetland ecosystems include permanent wetland, seasonal wetland, fresh emergent wetland, alkali wetland, and marsh. These areas are located adjacent to the San Francisco Bay and Delta. Wildlife in these ecosystems includes Great blue heron, great egret, wood duck, green-winged teal, mallard, California red-legged frog, western pond turtle, garter Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -37 snakes, western spadefoot toad, western toad, California tiger salamander, tri-colored blackbird, and vernal pool fairy shrimp. 102 Shoreline Flooding Coastal flooding and rising sea levels may inundate most of the wetland and tidal marshes by 2070.103 The wildlife habitat, recreation, and flood protection that these ecosystems provide may not be able to be sustained.104 Drought Wetlands can be directly affect by reduced water quantity and quality due to drought conditions.105 Drought can contribute to algal blooms, low streamflow, degraded water quality, higher temperatures, and increased erosion in both Delta and inland wetland habitats.106 This can in turn harm wildlife such as the California red-legged frog and western pond turtle that depend on these ecosystems.107 Extreme Heat Warmer waters may change wetland habitats so that native species can no longer survive.108 Warmer temperatures may also cause harmful algal growth that can harm both plant and wildlife species. Sea Level Rise Rising sea levels may inundate most of the wetland and tidal marshes by 2070.109 The wildlife habitat, recreation, and flood protection that these ecosystems provide may not be able to be sustained.110 Woodland Woodland ecosystems include oak savannah, oak woodland, and mixed evergreen forest. These ecosystems are primarily located on the hillsides and mountainous regions of western and central Contra Costa County. Wildlife in these ecosystems include deer mouse, western gray squirrel, coyote, red-tailed hawk, barn owl, great horned owl, and acorn woodpecker. 111 Appendix C C -38 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Agricultural Pests and Diseases Both evergreen and oak woodlands in the county can be damaged by forestry pests and diseases such as sudden oak death and redwood bark beetles. This can decimate the ecosystems and wildlife such as coyote, gray fox, barn owl, red-tailed hawk, and Copper's hawk that depend on these ecosystem for habitat and foraging.112 Fog Redwoods, which are a common species in woodland habitats in western Contra Costa, depend on the coastal fog in the summer months. Redwoods can get up to one third of their water from fog in the summer.113 The absence of coastal fog may cause higher evapotranspiration rates and increase the demand for water in woodland ecosystems during the drier summer months. Wildfire Fire sensitivity varies by species, but most species have an elevated risk of damage. Large fires can cause widespread devastation throughout woodland areas in Contra Costa County, particularly if trees have been weakened or killed by drought, extreme heat, and/or pests or infestation.114 KEY COMMUNITY SERVICES VULNERABILITIES Energy Delivery Energy delivery services in Contra Costa County include electricity and natural gas delivered through high-capacity utility lines and pipelines. In more rural areas of Contra Costa County, propane may be delivered via truck. Energy is needed for vital functions such as space heating, telecommunications, as well as entertainment and comfort. Major energy providers are MCE and PG&E. Extreme Heat Extreme heat can regularly cause power outages due to a combination of mechanical failure of electrical grid equipment, heat damage to the wires themselves, and high demand for electricity as a result of cooling equipment, all of which causes stress on the grid. As extreme heat events become more frequent and intense, disruptions in service are likely to become more frequent. The US Department of Energy estimates that a 9-degree increase in temperature reduces the capacity of power lines by 7 to 8 percent, and the capacity of electrical substations by 2 to 4 percent.115 Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -39 Landslides and Debris Flows Landslides can damage or destroy transmission lines and substations that are located in the hillside areas of the County. This could cause major disruptions in the power grid and could cause widespread power outages. Power outages can harm vulnerable populations and businesses.116 Severe Storms Energy delivery could be disrupted by severe weather if wind, hail, or thunderstorms cause the electrical grid to not function properly. If multiple sections or element of the system fail (substations, power plants, electricity lines) county residents and businesses could be without power for hours, days, or weeks depending on severity. Wildfire Wildfires can damage or destroy energy delivery infrastructure, which can cause power outages that can last for days or weeks depending on the severity of the event. This can directly harm the economy, government operations, public safety, and hinder wildfire recovery efforts. Public Transit Access Public transit within Contra Costa County is provided by County Connection, WestCAT, Tri Delta Transit, and AC Transit. Additional public transit that provides access to other regional locations includes BART and Amtrak. Shoreline Flooding Flooding Public transit routes are at risk for disruption to the extent they rely on vulnerable roads and bridges. Disruption of these services would be detrimental to those who do not own or operate vehicles.117 Residents may not be able to get essential goods and services, and commuters may be unable to go to work without public transit access. For rail and BART, if part of the lines is not functioning, then that could affect transit access on other parts of the line. Appendix C C -40 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Landslides and Debris Flows Landslides can block roadways, tunnels, and rail lines, which could substantially disrupt access to public transit in north, central, and west Contra Costa. These areas rely on public transit more and when disrupted, public transit may not be able to meet the needs of the community. Water and Wastewater These services involve treating and transporting water to be used by customers and transporting and treating wastewater so it can be safely released into the environment. Water and wastewater services are provided by several agencies and small private organizations throughout Contra Costa County and are critical to ensuring public and environmental health. Major water providers are East Bay Municipal Utilities District and Contra Costa Water District. Additional service districts within the county are Byron Sanitary District, Castle Rock County Water District, Central Contra Costa Sanitary District, County Sanitation District 6, Crockett Community Services District, Delta Diablo Sanitation District, Diablo Community Services District, Diablo Water District, Dublin-San Ramon Services District, Ironhouse Sanitary District, Mt. View Sanitary District, Rodeo Sanitary District, Stege Sanitary District, Town of Discovery Bay Community Services District, and West County Wastewater District. Shoreline Flooding Flooding Sea Level Rise Water and wastewater services can be disrupted from flooding if the wastewater treatment plants are not functioning properly. Flooding can exacerbate wet weather flows into the treatment plants with higher levels of stormwater and rising sea levels, which can prevent the system from functioning properly.118 Failure of these treatment plants could cause sewer systems to back up and potentially contaminate streams and water systems with raw sewage. Major points in the water delivery system could also be disrupted. Sea level rise may exacerbate these hazards. Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -41 Landslides and Debris Flows Water and wastewater services could be disrupted if the pipelines were to be damaged or destroyed from a landslide. This could cause both water and wastewater systems to not function properly. Wildfire Wildfires in the County could impact the reservoir water sources.119 Water quality can be degraded due to ash content or fire retardants that make their way into surface water storage. This may reduce the overall quantity of water that the water districts in the county have to supply agricultural, commercial, and residential demands. Appendix C C -42 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Endnotes 1 Hall, Alex, Neil Berg, Katharine Reich. (University of California, Los Angeles). 2018. Los Angeles Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: SUM-CCCA4-2018-007. 2 Ackerly, David, Andrew Jones, Mark Stacey, Bruce Riordan. (University of California, Berkeley). 2018. San Francisco Bay Area Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: CCCA4-SUM-2018-005. 3 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 4 California Office of Environmental Health Hazards Assessment. CalEnviroScreen 4.0. https://oehha.ca.gov/calenviroscreen/report/calenviroscreen-40 5 Reid, Colleen E., Marie S. O’Neill, Carina J. Gronlund, Shannon J. Brines, Daniel G. Brown, Ana V. Diez-Roux, and Joel Schwartz. 2009a. “Mapping Community Determinants of Heat Vulnerability.” Environmental Health Perspectives 117 (11): 1730–36. 6 Gould, Solange, Dervin, Kathy. 2012. Climate Action for Health: Integrating Public Health into Climate Action Planning. California Department of Public Health. 7 Ackerly, David, Andrew Jones, Mark Stacey, Bruce Riordan. (University of California, Berkeley). 2018. San Francisco Bay Area Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: CCCA4-SUM-2018-005. 8 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 9 Envision Contra Costa. “Contra Costa County Briefing Book.” https://cocogis.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapSeries/index.html?appid=fc2415bbdacb409baf0f19fe802a81f3. 10 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 11 California Office of Environmental Health Hazards Assessment. CalEnviroScreen 4.0. https://oehha.ca.gov/calenviroscreen/report/calenviroscreen-40 12 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 13 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 14 Roos, Michelle. (E4 Strategic Solutions). 2018. Climate Justice Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: SUM-CCCA4-2018-012. 15 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 16 Envision Contra Costa. “Contra Costa County Briefing Book.” https://cocogis.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapSeries/index.html?appid=fc2415bbdacb409baf0f19fe802a81f3 17 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 18 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 19 Ackerly, David, Andrew Jones, Mark Stacey, Bruce Riordan. (University of California, Berkeley). 2018. San Francisco Bay Area Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: CCCA4-SUM-2018-005. Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -43 20 Contra Costa Health Services (CCHS). 2015. Climate Change Vulnerability in Contra Costa County: A Focus on Heat. 21 Contra Costa County Health Housing & Homeless. 2018. “2018 Point in Time Count.” https://cchealth.org/h3/coc/pdf/PIT-report-2018.pdf 22 Hall, Alex, Neil Berg, Katharine Reich. (University of California, Los Angeles). 2018. Los Angeles Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: SUM-CCCA4-2018-007. 23 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 24 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 25 Hall, Alex, Neil Berg, Katharine Reich. (University of California, Los Angeles). 2018. Los Angeles Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: SUM-CCCA4-2018-007. 26 California Office of Environmental Health Hazards Assessment. CalEnviroScreen 4.0. https://oehha.ca.gov/calenviroscreen/report/calenviroscreen-40 27 Contra Costa Health Services (CCHS). 2015. Climate Change Vulnerability in Contra Costa County: A Focus on Heat. 28 Zanobetti, A., O’Neill, M. S., Gronlund, C. J., et al. 2011. Summer temperature variability and long-term survival among elderly people with chronic disease. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 109(17). Pp. 6608-6613. 29 Luber, G., Knowlton, K., Balbus, J., et al. 2014. Climate Change Impacts in the United States: Chapter 9 – Human Health. 30 US Climate Resilience Toolkit. 2016. Extreme Heat-NIHHIS. https://toolkit.climate.gov/topics/human- health/extreme-heat. 31 CDC (Centers for Disease Control). 2011. "Heat and People with Chronic Medical Conditions". https://www.cdc.gov/extremeheat/medical.html. 32 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 33 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 34 Hall, Alex, Neil Berg, Katharine Reich. (University of California, Los Angeles). 2018. Los Angeles Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: SUM-CCCA4-2018-007. 35 Ackerly, David, Andrew Jones, Mark Stacey, Bruce Riordan. (University of California, Berkeley). 2018. San Francisco Bay Area Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment.Publication number: CCCA4-SUM-2018-005. 36 Envision Contra Costa. “Contra Costa County Briefing Book.” https://cocogis.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapSeries/index.html?appid=fc2415bbdacb409baf0f19fe802a81f3. 37 Envision Contra Costa. “Contra Costa County Briefing Book.” https://cocogis.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapSeries/index.html?appid=fc2415bbdacb409baf0f19fe802a81f3. 38 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 39 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 40 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 41 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 42 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. Appendix C C -44 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 43 Ackerly, David, Andrew Jones, Mark Stacey, Bruce Riordan. (University of California, Berkeley). 2018. San Francisco Bay Area Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: CCCA4-SUM-2018-005. 44 California Energy Commission. 2018. Electric Transmission Lines – California Energy Commission [ds1198]. https://www.arcgis.com/home/item.html?id=a5b51de6cb3b47c794021c4358fad97e 45 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 46 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 47 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 48 Cal Fire. 2007. “Contra Costa County Fire Hazard Severity Zones in SRA.” https://osfm.fire.ca.gov/media/6662/fhszs_map7.pdf 49 Ferrar, K. 2015. "CA Active Rail Lines". FracTracker Alliance. Accessed July 29, 2019. https://www.arcgis.com/home/item.html?id=8a4d7c68569e4b879fce558008976cea. 50 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 51 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 52 Ackerly, David, Andrew Jones, Mark Stacey, Bruce Riordan. (University of California, Berkeley). 2018. San Francisco Bay Area Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: CCCA4-SUM-2018-005. 53 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 54 Cal Fire. 2007. “Contra Costa County Fire Hazard Severity Zones in SRA.” https://osfm.fire.ca.gov/media/6662/fhszs_map7.pdf 55 California Office of Emergency Services. 2019. California Wastewater Treatment Facilities. https://www.arcgis.com/home/item.html?id=dfedf186401240bc8d382e80188ac512 56 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 57 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 58 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 59 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 60 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 61 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 62 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 63 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 64 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 65 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 66 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 67 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -45 68 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 69 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 70 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 71 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 72 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 73 Contra Costa County. 2018. 2017 Contra Costa County Agricultural Crop Report & 2019 Calendar. 74 Hall, Alex, Neil Berg, Katharine Reich. (University of California, Los Angeles). 2018. Los Angeles Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: SUM-CCCA4-2018-007. 75 US Dept. of Interior, Bureau of Reclamation. 2017. Bay Area Regional Reliability Drought Contingency Plan. 76 Kerr, A., Dialesandro, J., Steenwerth, K., Lopez-Brody, N., Elias, E. 2018. “Vulnerability of California specialty crops to projected mid-century temperature changes.” Climatic Change 148: 419-436. https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/s10584-017-2011-3.pdf 77 Soil Science Society of America. n.d. Farming after the Flood. https://www.soils.org/files/science- policy/caucus/briefings/farming-after-flood.pdf. 78 Motha, R. 2011. “The Impact of Extreme Weather Events on Agriculture in the United States.” Challenges and Opportunities in Agrometerology. https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-642-19360-6_30 79 Kohls, Jessica. 2015. HOW DOES WILDFIRE ASH AND SMOKE IMPACT CROPS?. https://dutchopeners.com/how- does-wildfire-ash-and-smoke-impact-crops/. 80 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 81 Contra Costa County. 2018. 2017 Contra Costa County Agricultural Crop Report & 2019 Calendar. 82 US Dept. of Interior, Bureau of Reclamation. 2017. Bay Area Regional Reliability Drought Contingency Plan. 83 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 84 East Bay Regional Park District. 2013. “Master Plan 2013.” https://www.ebparks.org/sites/default/files/master_plan_2013_final.pdf 85 Cal Fire. 2007. “Contra Costa County Fire Hazard Severity Zones in SRA.” https://osfm.fire.ca.gov/media/6662/fhszs_map7.pdf 86 Delta Protection Commission (DPC). 2015. 2015 Inventory of Recreation Facilities in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. 87 US Dept. of Interior, Bureau of Reclamation. 2017. Bay Area Regional Reliability Drought Contingency Plan. 88 US Dept. of Interior, Bureau of Reclamation. 2017. Bay Area Regional Reliability Drought Contingency Plan. 89 Delta Protection Commission (DPC). 2015. 2015 Inventory of Recreation Facilities in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. 90 Jones & Stokes. 2006. East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservation Plan and Natural Community Conservation Plan. http://www.co.contra-costa.ca.us/depart/cd/water/HCP/archive/final-hcp-rev/pdfs/ch03setting.pdf 91 US Dept. of Interior, Bureau of Reclamation. 2017. Bay Area Regional Reliability Drought Contingency Plan. 92 Ackerly, David, Andrew Jones, Mark Stacey, Bruce Riordan. (University of California, Berkeley). 2018. San Francisco Bay Area Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: CCCA4-SUM-2018-005. Appendix C C -46 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 93 US Dept. of Interior, Bureau of Reclamation. 2017. Bay Area Regional Reliability Drought Contingency Plan. 94 Roos, Michelle. (E4 Strategic Solutions). 2018. Climate Justice Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: SUM-CCCA4-2018-012. 95 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements 96 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 97 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 98 Jones & Stokes. 2006. East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservation Plan and Natural Community Conservation Plan. http://www.co.contra-costa.ca.us/depart/cd/water/HCP/archive/final-hcp-rev/pdfs/ch03setting.pdf 99 Habitat Conservation Plan Association. 2006. East Contra Costa County HCP/NCCP: Physical and Biological Resources. 100 US Dept. of Interior, Bureau of Reclamation. 2017. Bay Area Regional Reliability Drought Contingency Plan. 101 EcoAdapt. 2013. “Southern California Riparian Habitats.” https://ecoadapt.org/data/documents/EcoAdapt_SoCalVASynthesis_Riparian_FINAL2017.pdf 102 Jones & Stokes. 2006. East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservation Plan and Natural Community Conservation Plan. http://www.co.contra-costa.ca.us/depart/cd/water/HCP/archive/final-hcp-rev/pdfs/ch03setting.pdf 103 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 104 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 105 US Dept. of Interior, Bureau of Reclamation. 2017. Bay Area Regional Reliability Drought Contingency Plan. 106 US Dept. of Interior, Bureau of Reclamation. 2017. Bay Area Regional Reliability Drought Contingency Plan. 107 Habitat Conservation Plan Association. 2006. East Contra Costa County HCP/NCCP: Physical and Biological Resources. 108 Roos, Michelle. (E4 Strategic Solutions). 2018. Climate Justice Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: SUM-CCCA4-2018-012. 109 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 110 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 111 Jones & Stokes. 2006. East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservation Plan and Natural Community Conservation Plan. http://www.co.contra-costa.ca.us/depart/cd/water/HCP/archive/final-hcp-rev/pdfs/ch03setting.pdf 112 Habitat Conservation Plan Association. 2006. East Contra Costa County HCP/NCCP: Physical and Biological Resources 113 Ackerly, David, Andrew Jones, Mark Stacey, Bruce Riordan. (University of California, Berkeley). 2018. San Francisco Bay Area Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: CCCA4-SUM-2018-005. 114 Ackerly, David, Andrew Jones, Mark Stacey, Bruce Riordan. (University of California, Berkeley). 2018. San Francisco Bay Area Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: CCCA4-SUM-2018-005. Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -47 115 US Dept. of Energy. 2013. US Energy Sector Vulnerabilities to Climate Change and Extreme Weather. https://toolkit.climate.gov/sites/default/files/20130716-Energy%20Sector%20Vulnerabilities%20Report.pdf. 116 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 117 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 118 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 119 Ackerly, David, Andrew Jones, Mark Stacey, Bruce Riordan. (University of California, Berkeley). 2018. San Francisco Bay Area Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: CCCA4-SUM-2018-005. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN APPENDIX D: 2015 CAP GOALS Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 D -1 The 2015 Climate Action Plan (CAP) identified how the County planned to achieve the Assembly Bill (AB) 32 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction target of 15 percent below baseline levels by the year 2020, in addition to supporting other public health, energy efficiency, water conservation, and air quality goals identified in the County’s General Plan and other policy documents. This appendix summarizes the key accomplishments of the 2015 CAP. ENERGY EFFICIENCY These measures focus on energy efficiency in new and existing homes in the unincorporated areas of the county. As shown in Figures D-1 and D-2, the County has made strides towards achieving this goal with a total of 1,018 single-family home energy efficiency retrofits and 24 multifamily unit energy efficiency retrofits completed from 2015 through 2020. FIGURE D-1: SINGLE-FAMILY HOME ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROJECTS COMPLETED IN THE UNINCORPORATED COUNTY Appendix D: 2015 CAP Goals D -2 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 FIGURE D-2: MULTIFAMILY UNIT ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROJECTS COMPLETED IN UNINCORPORATED COUNTY RENEWABLE ENERGY The goals set in the 2015 CAP for renewable energy adoption included installing solar arrays to 50 new homes, 10 new businesses, 2,500 existing homes, and 60 existing businesses by 2020. As shown in Figures D-3 and D-4, the County has shattered that goal, issuing over 5,000 residential photovoltaic (PV) permits between 2018 and 2020. Appendix D: 2015 CAP Goals Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan –JAugust 2024 D -3 FIGURE D-3: RESIDENTIAL PV PERMITS IN UNINCORPORATED COUNTY FIGURE D-4: COMMERCIAL PV PERMITS IN UNINCORPORATED COUNTY Appendix D: 2015 CAP Goals D -4 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 LAND USE AND TRANSPORTATION Improving mobility and encouraging alternative-fuel vehicle adoption were the biggest areas of focus in the County’s 2015 CAP. Mobility Improvements The County Board of Supervisors has supported mobility improvements by accepting two mobility-related studies: the Iron Horse Corridor Active Transportation Study and the Marsh Creek Corridor Multi-Use Trail Feasibility Study. The Iron Horse Corridor Active Transportation Study will identify safety, access, and user-experience improvements on the 22-mile corridor. The Marsh Creek Corridor Multi-Use Trail Feasibility Study will inform the County on the feasibility of a new 12+ mile corridor between Clayton and the Round Valley Regional Preserve. EV Charging Stations For electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, the County has increased efforts to address the goals in the 2015 CAP. • The Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) completed its EV Readiness Blueprint in 2019, with help from the County. • In the same year, the Board of Supervisors streamlined the permitting process for EV chargers. Both efforts combined led to 1,325 charging stations being distributed throughout the county and an additional 317 stations added through the MCE’s rebate program as of December 2020. This influx in charging stations makes it possible to reach the 2015 CAP goals centered around distance traveled per EV. WASTE REDUCTION The County set a waste reduction goal of a 75 percent reduction in Pounds of Disposal Per Person Per Day (PPD). The County used 3.9 PPD as the target PPD. In 2020, the County recorded a PPD rate of 2.2, which equates to a 72 percent reduction (Figure D-5). Appendix D: 2015 CAP Goals Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan –JAugust 2024 D -5 FIGURE D-5: COUNTY WASTE DIVERSION RATE Appendix D: 2015 CAP Goals D -6 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 This page intentionally left blank. ATTACHMENT A.3 PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT #2 CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN 2024 UPDATE ATTACHMENT 3: PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT #2 CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN 2024 UPDATE Contra Costa County Climate Action and Adaptation Plan 2024 Update August 2024 Public Review Draft #2 August 2024 Public Review Draft #2 Contra Costa County Climate Action and Adaptation Plan 2024 Update Prepared By: PlaceWorks 2040 Bancroft Way, Suite 400 Berkeley, California 94704 placeworks.com Prepared For: Contra Costa County 1025 Escobar Street Martinez, CA 94553 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Acknowledgements Climate Action and Adaptation Plan Project Team Department of Conservation and Development John Kopchik, Director Jason Crapo, Deputy Director Jody London, Sustainability Coordinator Demian Hardman, Principal Senior Planner – Climate and Energy Efficiency Programs Adam Scarbrough, Planner Nicole Shimizu, Planner Emily Groth, Planner and Climate Corps Fellow, 2022 – 2023 Savannah McCarthy, Climate Corps Fellow, 2021 – 2022 Cindy Cortez, Climate Corps Fellow, 2019 – 2020 Board of Supervisors John M. Gioia, District 1 Supervisor* Candace Andersen, District 2 Supervisor Diane Burgis, District 3 Supervisor Karen Mitchoff, District 4 Supervisor (term expired 2022) Ken Carlson, District 4 Supervisor (assumed office 2023) Federal D. Glover, District 5 Supervisor* *Indicates member of the Board Sustainability Committee Sustainability Commission Shoshana Wechsler, Member, District 1 Erin Levine, Alternate, District 1, 2023 – 2024 Victoria Smith, Member, District 2 Christopher D. Easter, Alternate, District 2 Michael Moore, Member, District 3 Norman Cohen, Alternate, District 3 Brandon R. Matson, Member, District 4 Wesley Sullens, Alternate, District 4 Charles Davidson, Member, District 5 Renee Fernandez-Lipp, Alternate, District 5 Acknowledgements Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 Sustainability Commission (continued) Chuck Leonard, At-Large, Business Group Susan Hurl, At-Large, Business Group Luz Gomez, At-Large, Community Group Howdy Goudey, At-Large, Community Group Kimberly Hazard, At-Large, Education/Research Kiara Pereira, At-Large, Environmental Justice Sarah Foster, At-Large, Environmental Justice Nick Despota, Member, District 1, 2017 – 2023 Ryan Buckley, Alternate, District 2, 2018 – 2021 John Sierra, Member, District 3, 2017 – 2021 Gretchen Logue, Alternate, District 3, 2017 – 2019 Samantha Moy, Alternate, District 3, 2020 – 2023 Travis Curran, Alternate, District 4, 2017 – 2021 Russell Driver, At-Large, Business, 2019 – 2021 Marisha Farnsworth, At-Large, Business, 2020 – 2023 Nicholas Snyder, At-Large, Business, 2017 – 2020 Harry Thurston, At-Large, Community Group, 2017 – 2021 Doria Robinson, At-Large, Environmental Justice, 2017 – 2020 Isabella Zizi, At-Large, Environmental Justice, 2020 – 2023 Cover page photo credit: Jennifer Groth. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 i TABLE OF CONTENTS Table of Contents Executive Summary ......................................................................................... ES-1 1. Purpose .............................................................................................................. 1 What is the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan? ................................................... 1 Climate Action and Equity ........................................................................................... 4 The CAAP and the General Plan ................................................................................. 8 How To Use This Plan ................................................................................................ 10 2. Action Framework .......................................................................................... 13 State Climate Action and Regulation ....................................................................... 13 Regional Climate Action ............................................................................................ 19 Climate Action in Contra Costa County ................................................................... 22 3. Climate Changes and GHGs ........................................................................... 33 Climate Science .......................................................................................................... 33 GHG Inventory and Forecast .................................................................................... 45 GHG Inventory ............................................................................................................ 47 GHG Forecast .............................................................................................................. 62 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy .......................................... 65 GHG Emissions Reduction Goals .............................................................................. 65 Existing and Planned GHG Emissions Reduction Efforts ...................................... 67 New Reduction Strategies To Achieve Our Goals .................................................. 70 Achieving Our Goals................................................................................................. 110 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy ...................................................................... 115 Vulnerability Assessment Summary ...................................................................... 115 Adaptation Strategies .............................................................................................. 120 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP .............................................................................. 141 Enacting the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan ............................................... 141 Work Plan .................................................................................................................. 149 7. Glossary ......................................................................................................... 185 Notes and Sources ................................................................................................... 193 Table of Contents ii Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 Appendices Appendix A – State and Regional Climate Change Policy and Legislation Appendix Appendix B – Technical GHG Appendix Appendix C – Vulnerability Assessment Technical Appendix Appendix D – 2015 Climate Action Plan Accomplishments Appendix Figures Figure ES-1. GHG Emissions with 2024 CAAP Implementation Compared to Reduction Goals .................................................................................................. ES-7 Figure 1. Relationship of Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation ............................... 2 Figure 2. Jurisdiction of Contra Costa County CAAP (Unincorporated County) ................ 3 Figure 3. Impacted Communities in The Unincorporated County ..................................... 6 Figure 4. California’s GHG Emissions Reduction Goals ...................................................... 14 Figure 5. Timeline of Climate Action Planning in Contra Costa County ........................... 23 Figure 6. Frequency and Projection of Extreme Heat Days in Concord and Richmond ................................................................................................................ 38 Figure 7. Absolute Annual GHG Emissions by Sector, 2005 to 2019 ................................ 51 Figure 8. Per-Person Annual GHG Emissions by Sector, 2005 to 2019 ............................ 54 Figure 9. 2006 Baseline and 2017 County Operations GHG Emissions Summary ......... 57 Figure 10. Consumption-Based GHG Emissions Inventory Results ................................... 60 Figure 11. Absolute Business-As-Usual GHG Emissions Forecast, 2019 to 2045 .............. 63 Figure 12. Business-As-Usual Forecast GHG Emissions and Reduction Goals ................. 67 Figure 13. Defining A CAAP Goal, Strategy, and Action........................................................ 72 Figure 14. Emissions Produced Per kWh of Electricity, MCE and PG&E ............................. 77 Figure 15. Contra Costa County 2045 GHG Emissions with Implementation of 2024 CAAP ...................................................................................................................... 114 Table of Contents Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 iii Tables Table ES-1. GHG Emissions in Unincorporated Contra Costa County and Emission Reduction Goals (MTCO2e) ................................................................................. ES-2 Table ES-2. 2024 Climate Action Strategies .......................................................................... ES-4 Table ES-3. GHG Emissions after 2024 CAAP Implementation .......................................... ES-6 Table 1. Comparison of Topics in The 2045 General Plan and The 2024 CAAP .............. 9 Table 2. Climate Change Impacts in California ................................................................. 35 Table 3. Absolute Annual GHG Emissions, 2005 to 2019 ................................................. 50 Table 4. Proportion of GHG Emissions, 2005 to 2019 ...................................................... 51 Table 5. Per-Person GHG Emissions, 2005 to 2019 .......................................................... 53 Table 6. 2006 Baseline and 2017 County Operations GHG Emissions Summary ......... 57 Table 7. Absolute Business-As-Usual GHG Emissions Forecast, 2019 to 2045 .............. 62 Table 8. Contra Costa County Business-As-Usual Ghg Emissions Forecast and Emission Goals, 2019 to 2045 ............................................................................... 66 Table 9. GHG Emission Reductions from Existing and Planned State, Regional, and Local Actions, 2019 to 2045 .................................................................................. 69 Table 10. GHG Emissions with 2024 CAAP Draft Reduction Strategies, 2019 to 2045 . 110 Table 11. 2024 GHG Emission Reductions and Regulatory Goals ................................... 113 Table 12. 2024 CAAP Implementation Matrix .................................................................... 151 Table of Contents iv Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 This page intentionally left blank. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN v Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS List of Abbreviations AB: Assembly Bill BAAQMD: Bay Area Air Quality Management District BARCAP: Bay Area Regional Climate Action Planning BayREN: Bay Area Regional Energy Network BCDC: Bay Conservation and Development Commission CAP: Climate Action Plan CAAP: Climate Action and Adaptation Plan CARB: California Air Resources Board CCTA: Contra Costa Transportation Authority CEC: California Energy Commission CERT: Community Emergency Response Team CH4: Mmethane CO2: Ccarbon dioxide CO2e: cCarbon dioxide equivalent CPUC: California Public Utilities Commission CRIPP: County Road Improvement and Preservation Program CTP: Countywide Transportation Plan DCD: Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development e-bike: Eelectric bicycle EBMUD: East Bay Municipal Utilities District EPP: Environmentally Preferable Purchasing ESP: Electric Service Provider EV: Eelectric vehicle EVSE: Eelectric vehicle supply equipment GHG: Ggreenhouse gas GSA: Groundwater Sustainability Agency List of Abbreviations vi Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – October 2023 August 2024 IPCC: Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change LCFS: Low Carbon Fuel Standard MTCO2e: Mmetric tons of CO2 equivalence MWELO: Model Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance N2O: Nnitrous oxide PPD: Ppounds per person per day PSPS: Public Safety Power Shutoff RPS: Renewables Portfolio Standard SGMA: Sustainable Groundwater Management Act TNC: Ttransportation network company USEPA: United States Environmental Protection Agency VMT: Vvehicle miles traveled WUI: Wwildland-urban interface ZEV: zZero- emission vehicle CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 ES-1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Executive Summary This 2024 Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (2024 CAAP) is part of Envision Contra Costa, the County’s comprehensive update to the General Plan, Zoning Code, and Climate Action Plan. The 2024 CAAP, an update of the 2015 Climate Action Plan (CAP), is Contra Costa County’s plan to achieve its vision for a sustainable future, adapt to changing climate conditions, and rapidly reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to support a pathway to statewide net-zero emissions by 2045. The 2024 CAAP is intended to serve as a companion to the Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan (2045 General Plan) and to mitigate GHG emissions in the unincorporated county that result from implementation of the General Plan. The 2024 CAAP features a planning horizon out to 2045 and provides updated information and an expanded set of GHG emissions reduction and climate adaptation strategies that apply to the unincorporated county. This 2024 CAAP builds on the work that was established in the 2015 CAP and reflects the latest developments in county- and regional-level climate action planning initiatives, GHG emissions reductions in County operations, and climate action planning policies and practices at the State level. The 2024 CAAP allows the County’s decision makers, staff, and communities to understand the sources and magnitude of local GHG emissions and the impacts of climate change on unincorporated communities in the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County (“unincorporated communities”), prioritize steps to achieve long-term GHG emissions reduction goals, and increase resilience to climate change–related hazards consistent with the County’s goals for land use, transportation, housing, and environmental justice. The Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development led preparation of the 2024 CAAP at the direction of the County’s Board of Supervisors. Preparation of the 2024 CAAP occurred from 2018 to 2024 as part of Envision Contra Costa and in collaboration with a consultant team, the Board Sustainability Committee, the County’s Sustainability Commission, County departments, and community members. The Contra Costa Board of Supervisors has declared that climate change “threatens the long-term economic and social well-being, health, safety, and security of the County, and that urgent action by all levels of government is needed to immediately address this climate emergency”. (Resolution No. 2020/256) Executive Summary ES-2 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 The County remains committed to achieving the ambitious GHG emission reductions adopted by the State of California in response to the increasing impacts and threat of climate change. The 2024 CAAP provides strategies and actions that support the State’s GHG emissions reduction goals through 2045, as established by State laws and regulations, including: • Reduce community-wide1 GHG emissions by 40 percent from the 1990 levels2 by 2030. • Reduce community-wide GHG emissions by at least 85 percent from the 1990 levels by 2045 and be on a pathway to support statewide carbon neutrality by 2045. The County’s business-as-usual forecasted GHG emissions and associated emissions reduction goals and associated emissions are summarized in Table ES-1. The 2024 CAAP is designed to enable Contra Costa County to meet the State’s regulatory emissions reduction goals while , in addition to attaining other County land use, economic growth, and environmental justice objectives. TABLE ES-1. GHG EMISSIONS IN UNINCORPORATED CONTRA COSTA COUNTY AND EMISSION REDUCTION GOALS, 2019 TO 2045 (MTCO2e) 2019 2030 2045 Forecast GHG emissions 986,3101 1,125,2301 1,288,4901 GHG Emissions Goal N/A2 658,700 164,680 GHG emissions to be reduced N/A2 466,530 1,123,810 Note: Numbers rounded to the nearest 10. 1 GHG emissions for 2019 were inventoried, and GHG emissions for 2030 and 2045 are projected from 2019 based on growth assumptions in the General Plan. 2 There is not an adopted GHG reduction goal for 2019. 1 Community-wide is defined as operative or effective throughout the whole community. In this case, this means throughout the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County. 2 The State’s Assembly Bill 32 Scoping Plan identifies 15 percent below 2005–2008 emissions levels as the local government equivalent of 1990 GHG emissions levels. The County uses 2005 as the baseline year. Executive Summary Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 ES-3 CLIMATE ACTION STRATEGIES The 2024 CAAP presents climate action strategies that build on the County’s past achievements and will allow the County to attain its GHG emissions reduction goals while improving community resilience and achieving its goals for growth, economic development, and environmental justice. These climate action strategies include those that directly reduce GHG emissions and those that help lower emissions but are not as easy to directly track, as well as strategies to help improve community resilience to climate hazards through adaptation. The 2024 CAAP includes goals, actions, and strategies for County operations and facilities. Some jurisdictions prepare a separate “municipal CAAP” document. Contra Costa County is including County operations in the CAAP to ensure the County is modeling its commitment to climate action and equity. The 29 comprehensive strategies in the 2024 CAAP reflect input and feedback from communities and County staff and incorporate regional regulations and State laws that are expected to be enacted in the future. All strategies are listed in Table ES-2. Out of the 29 climate action strategies, 11 directly result in GHG emission reductions. The remaining 18 strategies are focused on climate hazard resilience, leadership, equity, and other sustainability goals. The 29 climate action strategies are organized into eight categories. Executive Summary ES-4 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 TABLE ES-2. 2024 CLIMATE ACTION STRATEGIES Clean and Efficient Built Environment (BE) Homes, workplaces, and businesses in unincorporated Contra Costa County run efficiently on clean energy. BE-1: Require and incentivize new buildings and additions built in unincorporated Contra Costa County to be low-carbon or carbon neutral. * BE-2: Retrofit existing buildings and facilities in the unincorporated county, and County infrastructure, to reduce energy use and convert to low-carbon or carbon-freeneutral fuels. * BE-3: Increase the amount of electricity used and generated from renewable sources in the county. * No Waste Contra Costa (NW) Contra Costa County disposes of no more solid waste than 2.2 pounds per person per day (PPD). NW-1: Increase composting of organic waste. * NW-2: Reduce waste from County operations. * NW-3: Increase community-wide recycling and waste minimization programs. * NW-4: Reduce emissions from landfill gas. * Reduce Water Use and Increase Drought Resilience (DR) Contra Costa County uses less water and communities are prepared for drought. DR-1: Reduce indoor and outdoor water use. * DR-2: Ensure sustainable and diverse water supplies. Clean Transportation Network (TR) Contra Costa County's transportation network provides safe and accessible options for walking, biking, and transit. If residents and workers are driving, they are in zero-emission vehicles. TR-1: Improve the viability of walking, biking, zero-emission commuting, and using public transit for travel within, to, and from the county. * TR-2: Increase the use of zero-emission vehicles. Transition to a zero-emission County fleet by 2035 and a community fleet that is at least 50 percent zero-emission by 2030. * Executive Summary Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 ES-5 Resilient Communities and Natural Infrastructure (NI) Contra Costa County will increase resilience to climate hazards and foster community health. NI-1: Protect against and adapt to changes in sea levels and other shoreline flooding conditions. NI-2: Protect against and adapt to increases in the frequency and intensity of wildfire events. NI-3: Establish and maintain community resilience hubs. NI-4: Sequester carbon on natural and working lands in Contra Costa County. * NI-5: Minimize heat island effects through the use of cool roofs, and green infrastructure, tree canopy, cool paint and pavement, and other emerging strategies. NI-6: Protect communities against additional hazards created or exacerbated by climate change. Climate Equity (CE) Contra Costa County will address environmental factors leading to health disparities, promote safe and livable communities, and promote investments that improve neighborhood accessibility. CE-1: Provide access to affordable, clean, safe, and healthy housing and jobs. CE-2: Invest in solutions to support climate equity. CE-3: Increase access to parks and open space. CE-4: Ensure residents have equitable, year-round access to affordable, local fresh food. CE-5: Ensure that large industrial facilities act as good neighbors. Leadership (L) Contra Costa County is a model for how local government can take action on climate issues. L-1: Establish Contra Costa County as a leader among local governments for addressing climate issues. L-2: Continue to recognize the climate crisis as an emergency for Contra Costa County and make addressing climate change a top County priority. Implementation (IS) Contra Costa County will ensure it follows through to achieve the goals and actions in this Climate Action and Adaptation Plan. IS-1: Monitor and report progress toward achieving Climate Action and Adaptation Plan goals on an annual basis. IS-2: Continue collaborative partnerships with agencies and community groups that support Climate Action and Adaptation Plan implementation, with an emphasis on residents and community-based organizations from Impacted Communities. Executive Summary ES-6 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 IS-3: Secure necessary funding to implement the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan. IS-4: Continue to update the baseline emissions inventory and Climate Action and Adaptation Plan every five years. IS-5: Maintain and update the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan to allow for greater resilience. *Indicates strategy with quantified GHG emissions reductions. In conjunction with existing local and State programs, these climate action strategies provide a path to reduce the County’s GHG emissions to 639,46058,300 MTCO2e by 2030 and to 163,13057,610 MTCO2e by 2045 and support statewide attainment of net carbon neutrality by 2045 (Table ES-3 and Figure ES-1). With the reductions currently projected from the 2024 CAAP GHG emissions reduction strategies, 2045 GHG emissions for the unincorporated county are expected to be reduced to 856 percent below 1990 levels, equal to 878 percent below baseline 2005 levels andor 85 83 percent below 2019 levels. These reductions are predicted to occur across most GHG emission sectors, though emissions within the solid waste sector will continue to be affected by previously deposited waste continuing to decompose in landfills.3 With these reductions as currently assessed, unincorporated Contra Costa County achieves the GHG emissions reduction goals for 2030 and 2045. TABLE ES-3. GHG EMISSIONS AFTER 2024 CAAP IMPLEMENTATION 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E GHG emissions goals 658,700 164,680 GHG emissions after CAAP implementation 639,460 163,130 Goal achieved after CAAP implementation? Yes Yes Note: Due to rounding, totals may not equal the sum of the individual values. 3 The federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act defines solid waste as “any garbage or refuse, sludge from a wastewater treatment plant, water supply treatment plant, or air pollution control facility and other discarded material, resulting from industrial, commercial, mining, and agricultural operations, and from community activities. Nearly everything we do leaves behind some kind of waste. It is important to note that the definition of solid waste is not limited to wastes that are physically solid. Many solid wastes are liquid, semi-solid, or contained gaseous material”. Executive Summary Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 ES-7 FIGURE ES-1. GHG EMISSIONS WITH 2024 CAAP IMPLEMENTATION COMPARED TO REDUCTION GOALS 0 200,000 400,000 600,000 800,000 1,000,000 1,200,000 1,400,000 2005 2013 2017 2019 2030 2045GHG Emissions (MTCO2e)Baseline emissions Emissions with state and regional actions Emissions with CAAP Goal Executive Summary ES-8 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 IMPLEMENTATION Climate change already touches all aspects of life, work, and play within unincorporated Contra Costa County. In the absence of focused, ambitious, and equitable climate action, these effects will only become more pronounced, disruptive, and harmful over time. The County will use this document to help set climate action planning priorities, allocate resources to the communities and assets that are most vulnerable to climate change, and monitor and evaluate progress towards GHG emissions reduction goals and increases in community equity and resilience. The 2024 CAAP and 2045 General Plan provide a blueprint for how the County, its residents, and businesses can achieve a more sustainable, resilient future. The County developed the 2024 CAAP with the support and coordination of communities, and continued collaboration between the County and community partners is central to the 2024 CAAP’s successful implementation. Residents, workers, and business owners can use this document to better understand their personal and community-level vulnerability to climate change and for guidance on how to reduce their GHG emissions and improve their climate resiliency, including finding information about available financial and educational resources. This 2024 CAAP guides new development by introducing strategies that will reduce GHG emissions associated with the built environment. The 2024 CAAP is a California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)-qualified GHG Reduction PlanClimate Action Plan, which means that future development projects requiring environmental review under State law can streamline their GHG impact analyses by demonstrating consistency with the 2024 CAAP. This streamlining can save time and money during the environmental review process by allowing developers to reduce the number of steps involved in the environmental impact assessment process. Therefore, it is important that developers, landowners, planners, and others familiarize themselves with the strategies in the 2024 CAAP and comply with these strategies when designing, approving, and building new development. Contra Costa County is dedicated to making our communities cleaner and healthier for families, children, and future generations. Executive Summary Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 ES-9 County staff will monitor progress and provide regular updates to communities to ensure the effectiveness of each strategy. To ensure that the implementation process is efficient and transparent, the 2024 CAAP includes a high-level implementation plan that identifies responsible County departments, partners, and time frames associated with each strategy. Implementation of the plan will occur over threefour time frames—near term (by 2026), mid-term (by 2028), and long term (by 2030). The strategies do not have end dates because they are intended to remain in effect into the future. County staff will lead 2024 CAAP implementation by collaborating with and supporting community organizations, residents, businesses, and stakeholders to create programs that accomplish the goals, strategies, and actions outlined in the 2024 CAAP. To set the 2024 CAAP up for success, the County will integrate the plan’s goals, strategies, and actions into applicable County programs, plans, and initiatives. See Table 12 for complete implementation details for each strategy. The 2024 CAAP should be considered a living document that the County can modify to ensure that the GHG emissions reduction goals are achieved. Executive Summary ES-10 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 This page intentionally left blank. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 1 1. PURPOSE 1. Purpose Photo credit: Ben Weise. What is the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan? The Contra Costa County Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (2024 CAAP) is the County’s strategic plan to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and to adapt to changing climate conditions in the unincorporated areas of the county. The 2024 CAAP demonstrates Contra Costa County’s leadership and commitment to reduce GHG emissions and enhance community resiliency to long-term changes associated with climate-related hazards such as heat, flooding, droughts, and wildfires. The 2024 CAAP is an update of the 2015 Climate Action Plan (CAP). It provides updated information, an expanded set of GHG emissions reduction strategies, climate adaptation strategies, and a planning horizon out to 2045. It also establishes an implementation program and a framework to monitor, track, and report progress over time. The 2024 CAAP builds on several earlier sustainability and energy efficiency efforts and local accomplishments. The 2024 CAAP is intended to serve as a companion to the County’s General Plan, Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan, and to mitigate GHG emissions that result from implementation of the General Plan. This approach supports a holistic view of climate action planning and sustainability—it works to reduce Contra Costa County’s contribution to climate change while simultaneously preparing for the changes that cannot Chapter 1 2 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 be avoided. Figure 1 depicts the relationship between reducing GHG emissions, also referred to as climate change mitigation, and climate change adaptation. FIGURE 1. RELATIONSHIP OF CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION AND ADAPTATION Image credit: California Adaptation Planning Guide. The 2024 CAAP allows decision-makers, residents, businesses, and community stakeholders to understand the sources and magnitude of local GHG emissions from the energy, solid waste, water, and transportation sectors of the unincorporated county (see Figure 2 for the jurisdiction of the 2024 CAAP4); establish goals to reduce GHG emissions; and prioritize steps to achieve reduction goals. The 2024 CAAP includes goals, strategies, and actions that the County and community can take to achieve significant GHG emission reductions in the unincorporated areas of the county and ensure that the County is on track to support the State’s goal to achieve statewide net carbon neutrality by 2045. 4 Figure 2 shows the Urban Limit Line (ULL), which limits urban development to certain areas of the county and helps preserve farmland, open space, and habitat. 1. Purpose Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024October 2023 3 FIGURE 2. JURISDICTION OF CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CAAP (UNINCORPORATED COUNTY) Chapter 1 4 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 This 2024 CAAP includes strategies that directly reduce GHG emissions as well as strategies that help lower GHG emissions but are not as easy to directly track. The 2024 CAAP includes information about how climate change may affect natural hazards and identifies the populations, infrastructure, services, facilities, and natural resources in the unincorporated county that are most vulnerable to the effects of climate change. The 2024 CAAP has a suite of strategies to help improve community resilience to these hazards, also known as adaptation. The County developed the 2024 CAAP between 2018 and 2024 as part of the County’s General Plan update process, Envision Contra Costa. The Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development prepared the 2024 CAAP at the direction of the County’s Board of Supervisors and in collaboration with a consultant team, the Board Sustainability Committee, the County’s Sustainability Commission, County departments, and community members. This 2024 CAAP builds on the work that was established in the 2015 CAP and reflects the latest developments in county- and regional-level climate action planning initiatives, County GHG emissions reductions, and climate action planning policies and practices at the State level. The County has continued its work on climate action as the CAAP and General Plan were under development. Interim climate action work plans for 2021-2022 and 2023-2024 have guided progress during this time. This work has been recorded and shared with the public in annual progress reports. Climate Action and Equity Climate action is closely intertwined with equity issues, and a comprehensive approach to addressing climate change must also address the entrenched inequities in our society. In Contra Costa County and elsewhere in California, Equity: The state in which each individual or group is allocated the resources needed to reach an equal outcome. Contra Costa County is dedicated to making our communities cleaner and healthier for families, children, and future generations. 1. Purpose Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 5 Impacted Communities5, such as low-income, disabled, senior, and communities of color, have faced extensive discrimination, negligence, and economic disempowerment. Members of Impacted Communities often live in areas that are more at risk from climate change–related natural hazards. These persons also often lack the financial means and other resources or authority to act on climate change. These may include purchasing an electric vehicle, learning skills to pursue jobs in an emerging green economy, and if they own a home, retrofitting their home to better withstand climate change impacts, and renovating their home to improve energy efficiency, or installing solar panels on their house. As seen in Figure 3, Impacted Communities in the unincorporated county are concentrated along the county’s northern waterfront. The 2024 CAAP acknowledges such inequities and recognizes that Contra Costa County must play a role in resolving them. Though this 2024 CAAP cannot solve inequity by itself, it can contribute to a more equitable future by: • Providing resources to persons and communities who have historically been denied them. • Integrating equity considerations into County decision-making processes. • Supporting Impacted Communities in taking action to address climate change. • Creating a Just Transition that helps address the root causes of climate change and system inequities. • Ensuring that Impacted Communities have a voice in climate action planning through community-driven planning. Equity was a key priority of the County in developing the 2024 CAAP and 2045 General Plan. Many of the GHG emissions reduction and climate adaptation strategies in this 2024 CAAP help to improve community equity. Those strategies are marked with the icon of a balance scale, as shown at on the right. 5 “Impacted Communities” refers to a designation developed by CalEPA. CalEPA has formally designated four categories of geographic areas as “disadvantaged”: 1. Census tracts receiving the highest 25 percent of overall scores in CalEnviroScreen 4.0; 2. Census tracts lacking overall scores in CalEnviroScreen 4.0 due to data gaps, but receiving the highest 5 percent of CalEnviroScreen 4.0 cumulative pollution burden scores; 3. Census tracts identified in the 2017 DAC designation as disadvantaged, regardless of their scores in CalEnviroScreen 4.0; and 4. Lands under the control of federally recognized tribes. The term “Impacted Communities” was selected via community input. Chapter 1 6 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – October 2023 August 2024 FIGURE 3. IMPACTED COMMUNITIES IN THE UNINCORPORATED COUNTY 1. Purpose Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 7 Equity vs. Equality “Equity and equality are often used interchangeably, but equity and equality do not mean the same thing. Equality is about sameness—meaning that everyone receives the same thing regardless of any other factors. However, equality is only useful if everyone starts from the same place, which is often not the case. Lower-income populations and communities of color often have less access to healthy and energy-efficient housing, transit, or safe bicycling and walking routes. Equity, on the other hand, is about fairness, which is about ensuring that people have access to the same opportunities and have what they need to thrive and succeed. Equity is needed before equality can be reached. This understanding recognizes that people may have different starting points and may need different types and levels of support to flourish”. Reference: Urban Sustainability Directors’ Network Guide to Equitable Community-Driven Climate Preparedness Planning, May 2017 Image credit: Interaction Institute for Social Change | Artist: Angus Maguire Chapter 1 8 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 The CAAP and the General Plan The County updated the CAAP in tandem with the update of the County’s General Plan (2045 General Plan). The 2024 CAAP is intended to complement and help implement the General Plan. There is some overlap in topics addressed by the 2045 General Plan and the 2024 CAAP; the concurrent preparation of the plans ensures they are consistent. The 2045 General Plan acknowledges this connection by highlighting policies that promote sustainability with a special icon: . The climate action strategies presented later in this CAAP include General Plan policies and actions that reduce GHG emissions or increase resilience and are cross-referenced with the General Plan policy or action number in parenthesis. The 2024 CAAP is thus linked with the General Plan in continuing the County’s path towards sustainability. Preparation of Tthe 2045 General Plan also includeds completion of a climate change vulnerability assessment. This assessment considers climate changes likely to affect unincorporated Contra Costa County in the future and projected impacts on populations, assets, and community services. The County used findings from the vulnerability assessment to inform policies related to climate change resilience and adaptation, resource conservation, and energy use in both the 2045 General Plan and 2024 CAAP. The results of the vulnerability assessment are provided in Chapter 3 and Appendix C. The 2024 CAAP focuses on behaviors, regulations, and investment decisions that directly reduce GHG emissions and/or promote climate resilience and lays out an implementation and monitoring program to ensure that the County meets its State GHG emissions reduction goals. GHG emissions are highly dependent on County-level policies regulating land use, resource use and conservation, and transportation. A comparison of the topics addressed in the 2045 General Plan and the 2024 CAAP is provided in Table 1. The Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan is the County’s primary policy tool to guide physical changes in the unincorporated areas of the county. This General Plan looks over 20 years into the future and establishes a vision for development of our communities and stewardship of our natural environment. It is aspirational and long-range, but also practical, providing a useful, everyday guide for community planning. 1.Purpose Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 9 TABLE 1. COMPARISON OF TOPICS IN THE 2045 GENERAL PLAN AND THE 2024 CAAP UPDATED GENERAL PLAN 2024 CAAP SHARED TOPICS •Agriculture •Air quality •Climate change resilience and adaptation •Economic development •Energy use and generation •Extreme heat •Flood hazards and sea level rise •Greenhouse gases •Solid waste management •Transportation •Water conservation and quality •Wildfire hazards •Agricultural pests and diseases •Air quality •Climate change effects and vulnerabilities •Economic development and Just Transition •Energy use and generation •Extreme heat •Flooding, shoreline flooding, and sea level rise •Greenhouse gas emissions •Solid waste management •Transportation •Water conservation •Wildfires DIFFERENT TOPICS •Community health •Emergency response and evacuation •Hazardous materials •Historic and cultural resources •Housing •Land use patterns •Mineral, oil, and natural gas resources •Noise •Open space and ecological preservation •Public facilities and infrastructure •Seismic and geologic hazards •Carbon sequestration •Climate change resilience and adaptation •County investments •County leadership •Drought •Fog •Human health hazards •Landslides and debris flows •Severe storms Chapter 1 10 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 How To Use This Plan Climate change already touches all aspects of life, work, and play within Contra Costa County. In the absence of focused, ambitious, and equitable climate action, these effects will only become more pronounced over time. The 2024 CAAP is intended for residents, workers, business owners, County staff, and policymakers to provide information about the science of climate change, to highlight what the County has already done to address climate change, and to establish a road map for further GHG emissions reductions and advances in community equity, adaptation, and resilience. The County will use this document to help set climate action planning priorities, allocate resources to the communities and assets that are most vulnerable to climate change, and monitor and evaluate progress towards GHG emissions reduction goals and increases in community equity and resilience. Residents, workers, and business owners can use this document to better understand their personal and community-level vulnerability to climate change and for guidance on how to reduce their GHG emissions and improve their climate resiliency, including finding information about available financial and educational resources. This 2024 CAAP guides new development by introducing strategies that will reduce GHG emissions associated with the built environment. The 2024 CAAP is a CEQA-qualified Climate Action and Adaptation Plan or GHG reduction strategy, which means that future development projects in the unincorporated county that require environmental review under State law will have the option to streamline their GHG impact analyses by demonstrating consistency with this CAAP. This streamlining can save time and money during the environmental review process by allowing developers to reduce the number of steps involved in the environmental impact assessment process. Therefore, it is important that developers, landowners, planners, and others familiarize themselves with the strategies in the 2024 CAAP and comply with these strategies when constructing new development. The 2024 CAAP is intended for residents, workers, business owners, and policymakers to provide information about the science of climate change, to highlight what the County has already done to address climate change, and to establish a road map for further emissions reductions and advances in community equity and resilience. 1. Purpose Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 11 The remainder of this 2024 CAAP covers the following topics: • Chapter 2 (Climate Action Framework) discusses the State, regional, and local regulatory framework that informs the 2024 CAAP and related climate action planning efforts. It also highlights some of Contra Costa County’s recent and ongoing efforts to reduce GHG emissions and improve resilience to climate change. Chapter 2 is supported by the Climate Change Policy and Legislation Appendix (Appendix A). • Chapter 3 (Climate Change and GHGs) presents the results of two analyses: the GHG inventory and forecast for unincorporated Contra Costa County, which assesses recent and projected future GHG emissions; a discussion of the County’s consumption-based inventory; and a study of the expected future changes to climate change–related hazards. • Chapter 4 (GHG Emission Reduction Strategy) identifies the levels of GHG emissions reductions that the 2024 CAAP seeks to achieve and presents the County’s set of strategies and actions to meet or exceed these reductions. It also shows the GHG emissions that have already been reduced through existing and planned State, regional, and local efforts. Chapter 4 is supported by the GHG Technical Appendix (Appendix B). • Chapter 5 (Climate Adaptation Strategy) presents the findings of the vulnerability assessment, which looks at how people and community assets may be harmed by climate change–related hazards. It lays out the County’s strategies to improve resilience to these hazards and adapt to changing conditions. Chapter 5 is supported by the Vulnerability Assessment Technical Appendix (Appendix C). • Chapter 6 (Realizing the 2024 CAAP) presents the implementation details and high- level work plan of the 2024 CAAP, emphasizing the County’s leadership on climate action planning. Chapter 1 12 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 This page intentionally left blank. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 13 2. CLIMATE ACTION FRAMEWORK 2. Action Framework Photo credit: Envision Contra Costa picture gallery The 2024 CAAP builds on a legacy of climate action planning in California on the State level and at the regional and local level. These Existing State and regional plans, regulations, and programs inform future GHG emissions projections, GHG emissions reduction strategies, and climate action, adaptation, and resilience strategies that appear in this document. This chapter provides an overview of State actions and regulations that informed the development of the CAAP and climate action that is already underway at the local and regional level. GHG savings from these activities attributed to unincorporated Contra Costa County are presented in Chapter 4. State Climate Action and Regulation California has a history of enacting legislation aimed at reducing the State’s GHG emissions and ensuring resiliency in the face of a changing climate. California law first addressed climate change directly in 1988, when Assembly Bill (AB) 4420 directed the State to prepare a GHG inventory and study the impacts of climate change. Since then, California’s California has a history of enacting legislation aimed at reducing the state’s GHG emissions and ensuring resiliency in the face of a changing climate. Chapter 2 14 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 governors have signed several executive orders, and the legislature has adopted several laws to assess climate change, analyze GHG emissions and their effects, reduce emissions, and prepare for the impacts of climate change. Many of these laws and regulations affect local governments, but not all create specific requirements for individual communities. This section provides brief summaries of key climate change legislation, and Appendix A provides more detailed descriptions of climate change legislation. The State’s major goals are shown in Figure 4. FIGURE 4. CALIFORNIA’S GHG EMISSIONS REDUCTION GOALS EXECUTIVE ORDER S-03-05 AND ASSEMBLY BILL 32 – CALIFORNIA GLOBAL WARMING SOLUTIONS ACT OF 2006 In 2005, former Governor Schwarzenegger issued Executive Order S-03-05, which established the first statewide GHG emissions reduction goals for California and directed the State to: • Reduce emissions to 2000 levels by 2010. 2020: Reduce GHG emissions to 1990 levels (enacted by EO S-03-05, codified by AB 32) 2030: Reduce GHG emissions 40 percent below 1990 levels (enacted by EO B-30-15, codified by SB 32) 2045: Achieve net carbon neutrality (enacted by EO B-55- 18, codified by AB 1279) 2. Climate Action Framework Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 15 • Reduce emissions to 1990 levels by 2020.6 • Reduce emissions 80 percent below 1990 levels by 2050. In 2006, Governor Schwarzenegger signed Assembly Bill (AB) 32, the Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006.1 AB 32 codified the 2020 reduction goal, requiring California to reduce statewide GHG emissions to 1990 levels by 2020. EXECUTIVE ORDER B-30-15 AND SENATE BILL 32 In 2015, former Governor Jerry Brown signed Executive Order (EO) B-30-15, which directed State agencies to take several steps to reduce statewide GHG emissions and adapt to changing climate conditions. One section of this executive order set a GHG emissions reduction goal for the State of 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030. In 2016, the legislature passed, and the governor signed Senate Bill (SB) 32, which codified the 2030 GHG emissions reduction goal into law. EXECUTIVE ORDER B-55-18 In 2018, Governor Brown issued Executive Order B-55-18, which established an additional statewide goal of achieving carbon neutrality (no net GHG emissions) by 2045. Under this goal, any GHGs that are emitted by California must be fully offset by other activities by 2045. This goal does not yet have the force of law, but it does indicate the direction that the State is moving in and may be a reference point for future legislative action. 6 According to an assessment of GHG emissions trends conducted by the Air Resources Board in 2022, statewide GHG emissions dropped below the 2020 GHG emissions limit in 2014 and have remained below the limit since that time. Net carbon neutrality A net carbon neutral goal means that any GHG emissions produced by the community are balanced out through carbon sequestration, offsets, or other activities that remove GHG emissions from the atmosphere, so that the community’s net GHG emissions are zero. Ideally, the community will reduce its own emissions as much as possible, and then balance out the remainder. The scenario in the State's 2022 Scoping Plan would reduce emissions to approximately 85 percent below 1990 levels and then offset the remaining emissions, as required by AB 1279. Chapter 2 16 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 ASSEMBLY BILL 1279 In 2022, Governor Newsom signed AB 1279, the California Climate Crisis Act, which requires the State to achieve net zero GHG emissions as soon as possible, but no later than 2045, and achieve and maintain net negative GHG emissions thereafter. The bill also requires California to reduce statewide GHG emissions by 85 percent compared to 1990 levels and directs the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to work with relevant State agencies to achieve these goals. CLIMATE CHANGE SCOPING PLAN The Climate Change Scoping Plan2 (Scoping Plan) was first adopted in 2008 and was updated in 2014, 2017, and 2022. The Scoping Plan describes the strategies that California will implement to reduce the State’s emissions to achieve the emission reduction goals required by statute. It identifies GHG emissions reduction strategies to achieve the State’s goals, including direct regulations, alternate compliance mechanisms, incentives, voluntary actions, and market-based approaches like a cap-and-trade program. Although While the Scoping Plan has a statewide focus, it identifies local governments as strategic partners to achieving the State goals. Each version of the Scoping Plan has provided guidance for local government actions to reduce GHGs. The 2008 Scoping Plan noted that the statewide goal of reducing emissions to 1990 levels by 2020 was comparable to reducing emissions 15 percent below “existing” emissions by 2020 for local governments. Although “existing emission levels” was not formally defined by the Scoping Plan, agencies throughout California have interpreted it as referring to emissions between 2005 and 2008. As a result, Contra Costa County’s GHG emissions reduction strategies used 2005 emissions as the “existing” or baseline level to inform the 2020 goal in the 2015 CAP, which in turn informs the 2030 and 2045 goals in the 2024 CAAP. The 2022 update to the Scoping Plan recommends that local governments support statewide efforts to achieve net carbon neutrality. The 2022 Scoping Plan employs a variety of GHG emissions reduction strategies that include direct regulations, alternative compliance mechanisms, incentives, voluntary actions, and market-based approaches like a cap-and-trade program. Carbon neutrality takes it one step further by expanding actions to capture and store carbon, including through natural and working lands and mechanical technologies, while drastically reducing 2. Climate Action Framework Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 17 anthropogenic sources of carbon pollution at the same time.7 The 2022 Scoping Plan focuses on the outcomes needed to achieve carbon neutrality statewide by assessing paths for clean technology, energy deployment, natural and working lands, and others. It is designed to meet the State’s long-term climate objectives and support a range of economic, environmental, energy security, environmental justice, and public health priorities. The 2022 Scoping Plan identifies strategies that would be most impactful at the local level for ensuring substantial progress towards the State’s carbon neutrality goals. The 2022 Scoping Plan notes, “These areas and strategies are designated as ‘priority’ because they are the GHG emissions reduction opportunities over which local governments have the most authority and that have the highest GHG emissions reduction potential”. This CAP integrates feasible GHG emissions reductions from the 2022 Scoping Plan. CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)3 requires many proposed development projects to conduct an environmental review that identifies how the project may impact the environment, including changes to GHG emissions. The State CEQA Guidelines include provisions for local governments to use adopted plans for reducing GHG emissions to address the cumulative impacts of individual future projects on GHG emissions (see State CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5(b)(1)). Consistent with the State CEQA Guidelines, lead agencies may use adopted GHG emissions reduction plans, such as a CAP, to assess the cumulative impacts of projects on climate change at a programmatic level. If the adopted plan is consistent with State CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5, the analysis and GHG emissions reduction efforts in the plan may be applied to individual projects, meaning that the projects would not have to conduct separate GHG analyses and project-specific environmental documents may tier from and/or incorporate by reference the existing programmatic review. A future project-specific environmental review that relies on this 2024 CAAP for its cumulative impact analysis must show consistency with the plan by preparing a Consistency Checklist, identify specific GHG emissions reduction strategies from the 2024 CAAP that are applicable to the project, and demonstrate how the project will implement 7 The County’s 2023 Healthy Lands, Healthy People study identifies strategies for using natural and working lands to capture and store carbon. A Sustainable Agricultural Lands Conservation Grant from the State of California funded the study. Chapter 2 18 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 these strategies. Project applicants and County staff will identify which specific strategies are applicable to each project during project review. If applicable strategies are not otherwise binding and enforceable, they must be incorporated as mitigation strategies for the project. Projects that have cumulative impacts on GHG emissions may still need to prepare a separate GHG analysis and environmental review. This 2024 CAAP meets the requirements in the State CEQA Guidelines that allow it to be applied to individual projects by: • Quantifying emissions, both existing and projected over a specified period, resulting from activities within a defined geographic area, as discussed in Chapter 3. • Establishing a level, based on substantial evidence, below which the contribution of emissions from activities covered by the plan would not be cumulatively considerable. Chapter 3 of this 2024 CAAP identifies the County’s GHG emissions reduction goals, consistent with the State’s regulatory goals, which are: ▪ Reduce emissions to 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030. ▪ Reduce emissions to 85 percent below 1990 levels by 2045. ▪ Support statewide net carbon neutrality by 2045. • Identifying and analyzing the emissions resulting from specific actions or categories of actions anticipated within the geographic area, as discussed in Chapter 4. • Specifying strategies or a group of strategies, including performance standards that, if implemented on a project-by-project basis, substantial evidence demonstrates they would collectively achieve the specified emissions level, as discussed in Chapters 4 and 5 and Appendix B. • Establishing a mechanism to monitor the plan’s progress toward achieving specific levels and to require amendment if the plan is not achieving those levels, as discussed in Chapter 6. • Including an environmental review of the 2024 CAAP. The 2024 CAAP is evaluated by the Contra Costa 2045 General Plan Environmental Impact Report. 2. Climate Action Framework Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 19 Regional Climate Action BAY AREA AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT DISTRICT The Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) regulates stationary sources of air pollution in the nine counties that surround San Francisco Bay: Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, southwestern Solano, and southern Sonoma counties. The 24- member Board of Directors that governs BAAQMD includes four representatives from Contra Costa County, including two members of the County Board of Supervisors. BAAQMD’s Clean Air Plan (2017) provides a regional strategy to protect public health and the climate via continued progress toward all State and federal air quality standards, and to eliminate health risk disparities from exposure to air pollution among Bay Area communities. It includes a wide range of control measures designed to decrease emissions of the air pollutants that are most harmful to Bay Area residents, such as particulate matter, ozone, and toxic air contaminants; to reduce emissions of methane and other GHGs that are potent climate pollutants in the near-term; and to decrease emissions of carbon dioxide by reducing fossil fuel combustion. BAAQMD’s Clean Air Plan defines a vision for transitioning the region to the post-carbon economy needed to achieve ambitious GHG emissions reduction goals for 2030 and 2050 and provides a regional climate protection strategy that will put the Bay Area on a pathway to achieve those GHG emissions reduction goals. In addition to fulfilling its role as a regulatory agency, BAAQMD plays a vital role in supporting climate action across the Bay Area. In 2018, BAAQMD provided a Climate Protection Grant Program grant to Contra Costa County that allowed the County, in partnership with the Cities of Antioch, San Pablo, and Walnut Creek, and the community organization Sustainable Contra Costa, to launch the Cleaner Contra Costa Challenge. The Cleaner Contra Costa Challenge is an online platform that allows county residents to take actions in their everyday lives that reduce GHG emissions. BAAQMD’s Clean Air Plan defines a vision for transitioning the region to the post-carbon economy needed to achieve ambitious GHG emissions reduction goals for 2030 and 2050 and provides a regional climate protection strategy that will put the Bay Area on a pathway to achieve those GHG emissions reduction goals. Chapter 2 20 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 BAAQMD has offered funding for public agencies for trip reduction; bicycle parking and bikeways; and clean vehicle projects including electric vehicle charging stations, green fleets, and replacement of off-road and heavy-duty vehicles and equipment. BAAQMD’s Climate Tech Finance program provides loans for public agencies looking to invest in green technology and pilot projects. On April 20, 2022, the BAAQMD Board of Directors adopted CEQA Thresholds for Evaluating the Significance of Climate Impacts from Land Use Projects and Plans (2022 CEQA Guidelines).4 Appendix B of the 2022 CEQA Guidelines, CEQA Thresholds for Evaluating the Significance of Climate Impacts, presents BAAQMD’s thresholds of significance for use in determining whether a proposed project will have a significant impact on climate change and provides the substantial evidence that lead agencies will need to support their use of these thresholds. The proposed thresholds require that long-range plans, such as the General Plan and 2024 CAAP, must either meet the State’s goals to reduce emissions to 40 percent of 1990 levels by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2045 or must be consistent with a local GHG strategy that meets the criteria under State CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5(b). BAAQMD’s 2022 CEQA Guidelines also includes Appendix C, Guidance for Greenhouse Gas Reduction Strategies, which Contra Costa County followed during preparation of this CAAP. In March 2023, BAAQMD adopted amendments to Regulation 9, Rules 4 and 6. These revisions require that, when existing natural-gas-powered space heaters and water heaters reach the end of their operational life, they be replaced with electric-powered models. These requirements are scheduled to take effect in 2027 to 2031 for water heaters (depending on the capacity of the unit) and in 2029 for space heaters. The 2024 CAAP supports BAAQMD’s Clean Air Plan, CEQA Thresholds for Evaluating the Significance of Climate Impacts from Land Use Projects and Plans, and revisions to Regulation 9 as well as many other BAAQMD programs and initiatives aimed to reduce regional GHG emissions. In 2023, BAAQMD received funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (USEPA’s) Climate Pollution Reduction Grant program, to lead the Bay Area Regional Climate Action Planning (BARCAP) initiative, an eight-county climate action planning process to position the region to compete for $4.3 billion in implementation funding. This planning effort identifies specific, implementation-ready climate measures in high-priority sectors that provide significant GHG reductions and benefit frontline communities. Contra Costa County is a participating agency in the BARCAP initiative and assisted in the development of the Priority Climate Action Plan for the Northern and Central Bay Area Region. 2. Climate Action Framework Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 21 CONTRA COSTA TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY The Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) maintains the Countywide Transportation Plan (CTP).5 The CTP is updated approximately every five years. CCTA conducts extensive outreach to the public, cities, and the County during the update process. The CTP provides the overall direction for achieving and maintaining a balanced and functional transportation system within Contra Costa County while strengthening links between land use decisions and transportation. It outlines CCTA’s vision for future transportation and establishes goals, policies, strategies, projects, and actions for achieving that vision. The CTP is also the detailed plan which helps inform and direct transportation funding allocated throughout Contra Costa County. The CTP helps support the County’s climate action planning vision by advancing goals to reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMT), increase the use of active transportation modes, promote transit-oriented development, promote advances in vehicle technology, increase transit capacity, and ensure that the transportation system is resilient in the face of climate change. Implementing these policies will help the County meet its GHG emissions reductions and climate resiliency goals in a way that is consistent with other regional planning efforts. CCTA also oversaw the creation of Contra Costa County’s Electric Vehicle Readiness Blueprint. This document prepares Contra Costa County for the electric vehicle (EV) future by identifying the best locations for charging infrastructure; helping cities to adopt development standards and ordinances that encourage EV adoption; preparing the workforce of the future to maintain EVs and charging infrastructure; and identifying where improvements to the electricity distribution infrastructure are necessary to support electric-ready mobility hubs and zero-emission bus fleets. The Electric Vehicle Readiness Blueprint was adopted in July 2019. The CCTA’s INNOVATE 680 seeks to implement a suite of projects that, when operating together, will address corridor-wide congestion, travel delays, and long-standing operational challenges along Interstate 680 (I-680). INNOVATE 680 projects address part- time transit lanes, express lane completion, shared mobility hubs, mobility on demand, and The Countywide Transportation Plan helps support the County’s climate action planning vision by advancing goals to reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMT), increase the use of active transportation modes, promote transit-oriented development, promote advances in vehicle technology, increase transit capacity, and ensure that the transportation system is resilient in the face of climate change. Chapter 2 22 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 automated driving systems. For additional detail on the projects implemented as part of INNOVATE 680, see: https://ccta.net/projects/innovate-680/. Climate Action in Contra Costa County Since the early 2000s, Contra Costa County has initiated several efforts to address climate change, including efforts to measure and reduce GHG emissions, prioritize climate change mitigation in local government, and employ natural ecosystems for GHG mitigation. The 2024 CAAP, with its emphasis on mitigation, measurement, and resilience and adaptation, is the most recent chapter of the County’s climate change response and mitigation journey. Highlights of the County’s initiatives are shown in Figure 5 and further described in this section. Over the years, county voters have supported many strategies that improve the quality of life and the environment. In 1990, Contra Costa County voters approved an Urban Limit Line (ULL) for a period of 20 years. The ULL restricts urban development to certain areas of the county and helps to preserve farmland and open space. In 2006 it was adopted for another 20 years from that date. About 47 percent of the land in the county is inside the urban limit lines and urban growth boundaries adopted by the County and the 19 cities in the county. The East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy is a joint exercise of powers authority formed by Contra Costa County and the Cities of Brentwood, Clayton, Oakley, and Pittsburg to implement the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservation Plan / Natural Community Conservation Plan (HCP/NCCP). Formed over a ten-year planning and permitting process, the HCP/NCCP began implementation in 2007. The HCP/NCCP provides a framework to protect natural resources in eastern Contra Costa County while improving and streamlining the environmental permitting process for impacts on endangered species. The HCP/NCCP avoids project-by-project permitting that is generally costly and time consuming for applicants and often results in uncoordinated and biologically ineffective mitigation. The conservation strategy of the HCP/NCCP provides for comprehensive species, wetlands, and ecosystem conservation and contributes to the recovery of listed species in northern California. 2. Climate Action Framework Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 23 FIGURE 5. TIMELINE OF CLIMATE ACTION PLANNING IN CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Chapter 2 24 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 Over the years, county voters have supported many strategies that improve the quality of life and the environment. In 1990, Contra Costa County voters approved an Urban Limit Line (ULL) for a period of 20 years. The ULL restricts urban development to certain areas of the county and helps to preserve farmland and open space. In 2006 it was adopted for another 20 years from that date. About 47 percent of the land in the county is inside the urban limit lines and urban growth boundaries adopted by the County and the 19 cities in the county. The East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy is a joint exercise of powers authority formed by Contra Costa County and the Cities of Brentwood, Clayton, Oakley, and Pittsburg to implement the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservation Plan/Natural Community Conservation Plan (HCP/NCCP). Formed over a ten-year planning and permitting process, the HCP/NCCP began implementation in 2007. The HCP/NCCP provides a framework to protect natural resources in eastern Contra Costa County while improving and streamlining the environmental permitting process for impacts on endangered species. The HCP/NCCP avoids project-by-project permitting that is generally costly and time consuming for applicants and often results in uncoordinated and biologically ineffective mitigation. The conservation strategy of the HCP/NCCP provides for comprehensive species, wetlands, and ecosystem conservation and contributes to the recovery of listed species in northern California. Over the years, voters have approved funding for the East Bay Regional Park District to maintain and expand its network of regional parks and other facilities in Contra Costa County. This includes Measure FF, a $12/year parcel tax extension of Measure C, which was approved in 2004. The County partners closely with the Contra Costa Resource Conservation District on a range of conservation programs and projects, including habitat preservation, strategies for supporting agriculture, and related topics. Contra Costa County began taking significant steps to address climate change in 2005 with the publication of its first Climate Protection Report, which provided an estimate of the County’s GHG emissions, reported existing County efforts to reduce GHG emissions, and listed potential actions that could reduce GHG emissions in the future. In February 2007, the Board of Supervisors directed County staff to prepare a GHG emissions inventory of community-wide and County government operations GHG emissions. In October 2007, the Board of Supervisors adopted a resolution to complete a climate action plan for the County’s municipal facilities and operations funded by the BAAQMD. 2. Climate Action Framework Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 25 In December 2008, the Board of Supervisors adopted a Municipal Climate Action Plan, which established formal GHG emissions reduction goals, GHG emissions reduction strategies, and methods for analysis and monitoring of GHG emissions reduction strategies for emissions from the County’s operations. The County conducted an interim GHG inventory in 2013 to direct priorities toward achieving a goal of reducing the GHG emissions of government operations to 15 percent below 2005 levels by 2020. 2015 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN On December 15, 2015, the Board of Supervisors adopted a Climate Action Plan (2015 CAP) to reduce community-wide GHG emissions in the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County. The 2015 CAP included sections covering the scientific and regulatory environment, an updated GHG inventory and forecast, and a climate change health risk assessment. Strategies in the 2015 CAP addressed GHG emissions reductions, promoting healthy communities, and facilitating CAP implementation. The County created its first full-time sustainability staff position, the Sustainability Coordinator, to oversee implementation of the 2015 CAP. The County Board of Supervisors’ Sustainability Committee and the County Sustainability Commission were created to support implementation of the strategies in the 2015 CAP. Since 2015, the County has implemented a variety of actions to help meet the goals set forth in the 2015 CAP. Appendix D provides more detail on progress made in meeting 2015 CAP goals. The County has reduced community-wide emissions associated with electricity use by joining the community choice energy program MCE and promoting the use of MCE’s Deep Green and Local Sol products, which allow residents and businesses to purchase 100 percent renewable electricity and 100 percent locally produced solar, respectively. This also includes promoting energy efficiency incentive programs offered within the County by MCE, the Bay Area Regional Energy Network, and others. County facilities that do not have solar panels subscribe to MCE’s Deep Green product. In 2018, through a grant from the Strategic Growth Council, the County developed a Renewable Resource Potential Study that identifies the potential to generate clean energy The cover of the County’s 2015 Climate Action Plan. Chapter 2 26 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 in Contra Costa County. Among other things, the study found significant opportunity for solar energy, both on existing rooftops and parking lots in developed areas, and on undeveloped “greenfield” parcels in rural areas. In 2020, the County adopted a solar overlay zone to allow commercial solar energy facilities in certain areas, including commercial, industrial, and some agriculturally zoned parcels that are not prime agricultural land. As described later in this chapter, in 2023, the County completed Healthy Lands, Healthy People6 through a Sustainable Agricultural Lands Conservation grant from the California Department of Conservation. This study identifies strategies for storing carbon in the diverse land uses in Contra Costa County. Since 2015, the County has adopted and is implementing policies for complete streets and Vision Zero and adopted an Active Transportation Plan. The County is constantly seeking funding to implement these policies. BOARD SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE The County Board of Supervisors’ Sustainability Committee oversees implementation of the CAP. The Sustainability Committee has played a role in several sustainability initiatives, including promoting the installation of EV charging stations in County facilities and converting the County fleet to all-electric, tracking the development of environmental justice goals and initiatives, promoting energy use management and efficiency programs, reviewing environmental justice and sustainability themes in the ongoing update to the General Plan, and raising awareness about climate change among residents and County officials. COUNTY SUSTAINABILITY COMMISSION In 2017, the County Board of Supervisors established the Sustainability Commission, a citizen advisory body, that advises County staff and the Board of Supervisors on the successful implementation of the CAP, including suggestions on how the work can be performed more efficiently and effectively; The Sustainability Commission has addressed topics in the sectors of energy use and green buildings; transportation; water conservation; solid waste; and climate adaptation, resilience, and environmental justice. 2. Climate Action Framework Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 27 opportunities to realize equity and fairness across the diverse communities of Contra Costa County in sustainability programs that support the CAP; and provide suggestions on how to better engage residents and businesses on sustainability issues and implementation of the CAP. The Sustainability Commission, which reports to the Board Sustainability Committee, has addressed topics in the sectors of energy use and green buildings; transportation; water conservation; solid waste; and climate adaptation, resilience, and justice. In addition to supporting preparation of the 2024 CAAP, the Sustainability Commission has advised on implementation of the 2015 CAP, Climate Emergency Resolution, and Electric Vehicle Readiness Blueprint, which promote climate resilience, plan for a Just Transition of oil refineries on the Contra Costa County shoreline, examine how to transition to all-electric and carbon-neutral buildings materials, and provide outreach and education on sustainability to Contra Costa County residents and businesses. East Bay Energy Watch The East Bay Energy Watch (EBEW) was a partnership between the Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) and local governments in the East Bay region, including Contra Costa County. EBEW provided support for member agencies to conduct energy efficiency outreach to residents and businesses, retrofit existing government facilities to improve energy efficiency, and provide training to agency staff. EBEW also prepared a series of GHG inventories and provided GHG emission tracking for all member jurisdictions. The GHG inventories presented in Chapter 3 of the 2024 CAAP are based on the inventories EBEW prepared. EBEW ceased operations in 2020 when PG&E elected not to renew the organization’s funding, although similar partnerships remain active in other parts of California. Chapter 2 28 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 TRANSPORTATION ANALYSIS GUIDELINES In June 2020, the County adopted the Contra Costa Transportation Guidelines. These guidelines are intended to establish a uniform approach, methodology, and tool set to evaluate the impacts of land use decisions and related transportation projects on the County transportation system. The guidelines use VMT to assess impacts to the transportation system and require the development of mitigation measures to offset traffic impacts that are found to have exceeded CEQA’s identified threshold(s) of significance. COUNTY REACH CODES The County has adopted building and energy provisions that go beyond the State’s building and energy codes. These amendments to the State codes are commonly called “reach codes”. Section 74-4.006 of the Contra Costa County Code of Ordinances, adopted in 2015, amends the California Green Building Standards Code by setting requirements for installation of EV charging stations at new multifamily and nonresidential construction. For most new multifamily dwellings, if residential parking is provided, 10 percent of the total number of parking spaces at the dwelling site are required to be EV spaces. Half of the EV spaces, but not less than one, must be equipped with fully operational electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE). The remaining EV spaces are required to be capable of supporting future EVSE. New nonresidential construction is required to provide EV spaces in accordance with the amount of available parking. On January 18, 2022, the County Board of Supervisors adopted Ordinance 2022-02, an All- Electric (New Construction) Ordinance, to amend the 2019 California Energy Code to require the following building types to be all-electric: residential (including single-family and multifamily buildings), detached accessory dwelling units, hotel, office, and retail. On February 27, 2024, the County Board of Supervisors suspended its enforcement of Ordinance 2022-02, because of a decision on January 2, 2024, by the U.S. Court of Appeals 9th Circuit that invalidated a City of Berkeley ordinance that prohibited natural gas infrastructure in new buildings, precluding cities and counties from adopting ordinances that prohibit the installation of gas plumbing in buildings. On June 4, 2024, the County Board of Supervisors authorized staff to prepare an ordinance amending the County building code to replace its All-Electric (New Construction) Ordinance with a new ordinance to increase energy-efficiency standards for certain residential and nonresidential buildings. This action is reflected in this CAAP’s discussion of future GHG emissions. 2. Climate Action Framework Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 29 In November 2022, the County Board of Supervisors adopted Ordinance 2022-35, which adopts and amends, among others, the 2022 California Building Code. Amendments include revisions to Section 420.14 to expand requirements for the installation of EV charging infrastructure at newly constructed nonresidential and multifamily residential buildings. It also carries forward the all-electric requirements first adopted in Ordinance 2022-02.Federal courts struck down the City of Berkeley’s all-electric ordinance in January of 2024, and County legal experts believed that Contra Costa County’s ordinance would be vulnerable under the Court’s ruling. The following month, the County suspended enforcement of the all-electric requirements first adopted in Ordinance 2022-02 and modified by Ordinance 2022-35. The County Board of Supervisors has directed County staff to work on a replacement ordinance that would encourage all-electric buildings without being vulnerable to the same legal challenges, and this action is reflected in this CAAP’s discussion of future GHG emissions. The County’s ordinance that sets additional standards for EV charging stations remains in effect. CLIMATE EMERGENCY RESOLUTION On September 22, 2020, the Board of Supervisors adopted Resolution No. 2020/256,7 declaring that climate change “threatens the long-term economic and social well-being, health, safety, and security of the County, and that urgent action by all levels of government is needed to immediately address this climate emergency”. The resolution prioritizes the urgent implementation of the County’s 2024 CAAP to achieve GHG emissions reductions and to consider equity and social justice issues in the implementation of the plan, and directs that health, socioeconomic, and racial equity considerations be included in policymaking and climate solutions at all levels. The Climate Emergency Resolution also calls for establishing an ongoing task force of County department heads to focus on implementing the 2024 CAAP, planning for a Just Transition away from an economy based on fossil fuels, and adopting an all-electric ordinance for new construction. Chapter 2 30 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 INTERDEPARTMENTAL CLIMATE ACTION TASK FORCE When the Board of Supervisors declared a climate emergency in 2020, one of the actions identified to address the emergency was the creation of an Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force that includes all department heads or their senior deputies. The task force is directed to focus on urgently implementing the CAP and to identify additional actions, policies, and programs the County can undertake to reduce and adapt to the impacts of a changing climate. The Task Force is directed to report to the Board of Supervisors twice a year. The first of these reports, released in March 2021, recommended that the Board establish a Sustainability Fund to support improvements to County facilities and operations that reduce GHG emissions. The Board of Supervisors has directed the Department of Public Works to manage the fund, including the identification and implementation of projects and tracking savings, with the task force serving as an advisory committee to the fund. The Sustainability Committee recommended that the initial focus of the fund be used to install the first tranche of electric vehicle charging stations, an ongoing priority. The Task Torce has also worked on scaling and implementing Green Business Program best practices in each of the County departments. Most County departments have nominated volunteers for the Green Government Group (G3) Champions program. The G3 Champions form a network of over 75 County employees across 18 departments who are focused on making Contra Costa County a cleaner, healthier place to live and work. The G3 Champions meet every other monthregularly to discuss climate action work happening in their departments and develop strategies and activities to educate and engage their colleagues in sustainability.learn about different topics and take action to educate their colleagues and implement change. The Task Force is directed to focus on urgently implementing the County's Climate Action and Adaptation Plan and to identify additional actions, policies, and programs the County can undertake to reduce and adapt to the impacts of a changing climate. The Green Government Group (G3) Champions logo. 2. Climate Action Framework Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 31 ENVISION CONTRA COSTA Every county and incorporated community in California is required to adopt and occasionally update a document called a general plan, which is a comprehensive and long- range plan for the jurisdiction’s land use policies and related matters for how communities will grow and develop. State law requires that each general plan includes the following topics: • Land use • Circulation • Housing • Conservation • Open space • Noise • Safety • Environmental justice (for communities that meet criteria) The County’s process to update its current General Plan, is referred to as Envision Contra Costa. Envision Contra Costa began in late 2018 and included the 2045 General Plan, a zoning code update, and this 2024 CAAP. The 2045 General Plan and the 2024 CAAP are organized around four specific topics: environmental justice, sustainability, community health, and economic development. HEALTHY LANDS, HEALTHY PEOPLE CARBON SEQUESTRATION STUDY In 20231, the County began completed a feasibility study—Healthy Lands, Healthy People— to identify strategies for storing carbon in the diverse land uses in Contra Costa County. The County received a Sustainable Agricultural Lands Conservation grant from the State that funded the project. The County partnered with the Contra Costa Resource Conservation District, the University of California Cooperative Extension, and a consultant team to develop Healthy Lands, Healthy People. The study , completed in 2023, will informs next steps to increase investments in trees, gardens, agricultural practices, and other activities that can use natural and working lands to address climate change. Chapter 2 32 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 COMMUNITY LEVEL ACTION Just as climate change touches on all aspects of community life in Contra Costa County, all community members can take personal and collective action to reduce GHG emissions and advance resilience. Many community organizations, businesses, and individuals have already acted. The 2024 CAAP builds on these initiatives while engaging all members of the Contra Costa County community in climate action. As described previously, iIn 2018, the County partnered with the cities of Antioch, San Pablo, and Walnut Creek and Sustainable Contra Costa to launch the Cleaner Contra Costa Challenge. A Climate Protection grant from the Bay Area Air Quality Management District provided funds to build an online platform tailored to Contra Costa communities that allows residents to take actions to create a cleaner, healthier place to live, work, and play. The two-year grant provided an opportunity to pilot the program before launching it more widely. Sustainable Contra Costa now operates the program across the county. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 33 3. CLIMATE CHANGES AND GHGS 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Photo credit: Envision Contra Costa picture gallery Climate Science WHAT IS CLIMATE CHANGE? Climate is the long-term average of weather conditions, such as temperature and precipitation. It is normal for Earth’s climate system to experience long-term shifts, but human activity is causing global climate change at a much more rapid pace than in the past. Human-caused climate change is largely attributable to the burning of fossil fuels, which causes greenhouse gases (GHGs)_ called GHGs to build up in the atmosphere and trap heat close to the Earth’s surface, a phenomenon known as the greenhouse effect. Most GHGs are naturally occurring gases, such as water vapor, carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O), that absorb heat radiated from the Earth’s surface. Some GHGs can persist in the atmosphere and trap heat for thousands of years once they are emitted. Human-caused climate change is largely attributable to the burning of fossil fuels. Chapter 3 34 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 As the levels of GHGs in the atmosphere increase because of human activity, more heat is trapped, increasing the temperature of the Earth’s surface at an unprecedented rate. Because Earth’s climate system is driven by the movement of heat in the atmosphere and in the oceans, more heat creates shifts in the global climate system, causing climate change. The effects of climate change vary in different geographic locations, and often include significant changes to temperatures, precipitation patterns, and storm activity. EFFECTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE Globally, the effects of human-caused climate change have been observed as: • Increases in global surface temperatures. • Increases in precipitation over land and increases in storm intensity. • Retreat of glaciers. • Ocean acidification. • Warming of the global upper ocean. • Increase in global mean sea level.8 Extreme heat days have become more frequent and more intense across most land regions since the 1950s, and extreme cold events have become less frequent. The frequency and intensity of heavy precipitation events have increased since the 1950s over most land areas, and drought has become more frequent in some areas due to increased evapotranspiration (water evaporation from land to sky). CLIMATE CHANGE IN CALIFORNIA In California and western North America, observations of the climate have shown: (1) a trend toward warmer temperatures with an increase in extremely hot days and nights; (2) an increase in the area burned by wildfires; (3) a smaller fraction of precipitation falling as snow; (4) an increase in frequency of drought and an increase in consecutive dry years; and (5) sea level rise is expected to continue to increase flooding and erosion on beaches, bluffs, and cliffs.9 Research suggests that California will continue to experience hotter and Human-induced climate change is already affecting many weather and climate extremes in every region across the globe. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s (IPCC) Sixth Assessment Report, global warming of 1.5°C and 2°C will be exceeded during the 21st century unless we make great reductions in CO2 and other greenhouse gas GHG emissions in the coming decades. 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 35 drier conditions, reductions in winter snow and increases in winter rains, sea level rise, significant changes to the water cycle, and an increase in extreme weather events. These changes in climate will affect economic systems throughout California, including Contra Costa County. To refrain from action is costly and risky; the California Fourth Climate Change Assessment estimates that taking no action to address the potential impacts of climate change will lead to economic losses of “tens of billions of dollars per year in direct costs” and “expose trillions of dollars of assets to collateral risk”. Table 2 summarizes potential impacts in California due to climate change. TABLE 2. CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACTS IN CALIFORNIA CLIMATE IMPACT HISTORICAL TRENDS FUTURE DIRECTION OF CHANGE CONFIDENCE FOR FUTURE CHANGE Temperature Warming Warming Very High Sea Level Rise Rising Rising Very High Snowpack Declining Declining Very High Annual Precipitation No significant trends Unknown Low Intensity of Heavy Precipitation Events No significant trends Increasing Medium-High Frequency of Droughts No significant trends Increasing Medium-High Marine Layer Clouds Some downward trends Unknown Low Acres Burned by Wildfire Increasing Increasing Medium-High Source: Louise Bedsworth et al. 2018, “Statewide Summary Report,”, in California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment, publication no. SUMCCCA4-2018-013, 2018. CLIMATE CHANGE IN CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Climate change is expected to alter many aspects of the county’s climate, including temperature, precipitation patterns, and sea levels, potentially exacerbating both the severity and geographic scope of climate hazards. Contra Costa County is most vulnerable to hazards associated with pests and diseases, changes in air quality, drought, extreme heat, flooding, fog, human health hazards, landslides and debris flows, severe storms, sea level rise, shoreline flooding, and wildfire. These climate stressors are described in the following paragraphs. Chapter 3 36 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 Agricultural pests and diseases The farms and ranches of Contra Costa County face risks from assorted pests and diseases that may affect crop plants, trees, and livestock. These pests and diseases can reduce or delay plant and animal growth, inflict such damage that agricultural products are less appealing and harder to sell, or cause plant or animal death. To manage greater pest and disease pressure, farmers may also need to increase pesticide applications. Many pests and organisms that carry diseases are most active during warmer months, so the threat of infection or infestation is usually higher during these months. As the climate changes, temperatures are expected to get warmer earlier in the year and remain warmer until later in the year, creating a wider window for agricultural and urban pests and diseases to be active. Both evergreen and oak woodlands in the county can be damaged by forestry pests and diseases, such as Sudden Oak Death and redwood bark beetles. These diseases severely harm ecosystems, including both woodlands and the animals that depend on them to provide habitat and foraging, such as coyote, gray fox, barn owl, red-tailed hawk, and Cooper's hawk. Air quality The primary determinants of air quality in Contra Costa County are ozone pollution from vehicle exhaust, particulate matter from industrial centers and diesel trucks, and allergen distribution. Higher temperatures can increase surface ozone concentrations, and increased water vapor can trap ozone in already-polluted areas. Ground-level ozone is associated with a variety of negative health outcomes, including reduced lung function, pneumonia, asthma, cardiovascular diseases, and premature death. Ozone concentrations are projected to increase in most places that already experience high ozone levels, such as eastern Contra Costa County. Nunn Vineyard. Photo credit: Stan Muraoka. 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 37 Drought A drought happens when conditions are drier than normal for an extended period, making less water available for people (especially if local water supply depends on surface water), agricultural uses, and ecosystems. Communities in Contra Costa County may experience water shortages during drought conditions and mandatory water restrictions for domestic and agricultural uses. Farmers may need to cut back on irrigation, and ranchers may need to reduce the number of their livestock. Farmers may also be forced to plant varieties that are more drought tolerant or alter the timing and location of fields to ensure that irrigation water is available at critical times. Land may be left fallow if irrigation water is not available, which may increase the pressure to develop prime agricultural land. Less precipitation could lower water levels, decrease water quality, and raise water temperatures at streams and lakes. These conditions can cause algal blooms in Delta areas and harm salmonid populations and other aquatic species, such as the California red- legged frog and western pond turtle. Droughts are a regular occurrence in California; however, scientists expect that climate change will lead to more frequent and more intense droughts statewide. Extreme heat Contra Costa County has different thresholds for extreme heat in different parts of the county. An extreme heat day is where temperatures reach 94 degrees Fahrenheit in Rodeo, 99 degrees Fahrenheit in Alamo, and 102 degrees Fahrenheit in Knightsen. 10Extreme heat temperatures for the western part of the county are lower, but any higher-than-usual temperature can be harmful to people and assets that are not accustomed to it. Historically, Contra Costa County has experienced an average of four extreme heat days a year. This number is expected to increase dramatically because of climate change, as illustrated in Figure 6. By the middle of the 21st century (2040 to 2070), Contra Costa County is likely to have an average of 15 to 20 extreme heat days per year. By the end of the century, the county is projected to experience an average of 21 to 37 extreme heat days per year. Chapter 3 38 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 FIGURE 6. FREQUENCY AND PROJECTION OF EXTREME HEAT DAYS IN CONCORD AND RICHMOND Source: Cal-Adapt. https://cal-adapt.org/. Historical data is available through 2020. Extreme heat can cause heat-related illnesses, such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. High temperatures can harm animals and plants that are not adapted to them. Some types of infrastructure, including power lines and roadways, experience greater stresses during high temperatures, making failure more likely. People are less likely to venture outside in very high temperatures, hurting economic sectors that depend on outdoor activities. Extreme heat can also increase the risk of wildfires by drying out plant material, and prolonged high temperatures contribute to drought conditions. An example of health inequity tied to climate change is that Black Americans have been found to be at a higher risk of illness and death from heat. However, there is no biological basis for this. Instead, this finding has been linked to social factors such as poverty, neighborhood conditions, access to air conditioning, and vehicle ownership. These factors are also associated with higher rates of chronic health conditions among the Black community, including cardiovascular disease and hypertension. Long-standing patterns of racial residential segregation and institutional racism mean that Black individuals disproportionately live in high-poverty, disinvested neighborhoods, regardless of income. The Contra Costa County communities with the highest proportions of Black residents are 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 1950195619621968197419801986199219982004201020162022202820342040204620522058206420702076208220882094Number of DaysYears Concord Richmond Historical Future 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 39 the unincorporated community of North Richmond and the cities of Antioch, Pittsburg, and Richmond. These conditions exist in Contra Costa County for other low-income residents of impacted communities. Extreme heat also can create vulnerability for workers whose jobs are outdoors, such as those in agriculture or construction, and those who work in poorly ventilated buildings and/or buildings that lack air conditioning. Analysis conducted as part of the 2015 Contra Costa County Health Extreme hHeat vVulnerability aAssessment determined that the neighborhoods most vulnerable to heat are Bethel Island, East County, the Monument Corridor in Concord, the Rossmoor Area in Walnut Creek, and West County. These results are found in a summary of the assessment, 2015 Climate Change Vulnerability in Contra Costa County: A Focus on Heat.11 Extreme weather may also lower water quality and cause water temperatures to rise, which can lead to algal blooms and declines in aquatic populations. Native fish species may have a more difficult time surviving in warmer waters and non-native species may out-compete native species. Flooding Flooding happens when there is too much water in inland areas to be held in local bodies, carried away by drains or creeks, or soaked into the soil. This water can build up and wash into normally dry areas and significantly harm buildings, people, and habitats. Floodwaters can be deep enough to drown people and may move fast enough to carry away people, cars, or even homes. Floodwaters Air Conditioning Air conditioner ownership helps protect against extreme heat events. However, while air conditioners allow households to adapt to extreme heat, increased household air conditioning could strain energy capacity and counter mitigation goals by leading to greenhouse gasGHG emissions. Identifying areas where few households have air conditioners is important to ensure that these communities are adequately served by cooling centers. Low-income households are less likely to have or use air conditioning, and a lack of air conditioning may be one of the drivers of racial inequalities in morbidity and mortality during heat waves. IWithin Contra Costa County, households in historically cooler areas and areas with older housing stock are less likely to have home air conditioning. All-electric heat pumps can provide both air conditioning and heating services, reducing the need for natural gas service, and helping to address this inequity. Chapter 3 40 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 can carry contaminants into communities, impacting public health, ecosystem health, and water quality. Floods can be caused by heavy rainfall, extended periods of moderate rainfall, or clogged drains during periods of rainfall. Flash floods can be especially dangerous because they happen so fast that they give little or no warning. Although climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of droughts, scientists also project that it will increase the frequency and intensity of heavy rain and associated floods in Contra Costa County. Fog Fog is a very low cloud, usually low enough to touch the ground. It forms when air near the surface reaches the right temperature to form water vapor, which condenses into a cloud. In Contra Costa County, fog usually forms in two areas—western Contra Costa County along the bayfront and eastern Contra Costa County as part of the Central Valley. Western Contra Costa County experiences coastal fog that flows in from the Pacific Ocean. Eastern Contra Costa experiences tule fog, which usually forms after heavy rain between late autumn and early spring in the Central Valley. The cool air brought in by fog is necessary for the productivity of agriculture in the region and the growth of many tree-dominated habitats on the hillsides of Contra Costa County. The impacts of climate change on fog are less clear. There has been close to a 50 percent reduction in tule fog in California’s Central Valley since the 1980s. Coastal fog is projected to decline by 12 to 20 percent between 1900 and 2070. Climate scientists believe that the warmer temperatures created by climate change make it harder for the air to become cool enough to create fog, and warmer temperatures are more likely to evaporate any fog that does form. In agriculture, many varieties of fruit and nut trees require winter chill (measured as a number of chill hours) for high fruit and nut quality and yield. Research has shown that the warmer air that is replacing seasonal fog decreases the number of these important chill hours. This reduces the yield and quality of the cherries, almonds, walnuts, and other stone fruit that are grown in Contra Costa County. The cool air brought in by fog is necessary for the productivity of agriculture in the region and the growth of many tree-dominated habitats on the hillsides of Contra Costa County. 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 41 Redwoods depend on the coastal fog for water in the summer months. The absence of coastal fog may cause higher evapotranspiration rates and increase the demand for water in woodland ecosystems during the drier summer months. Human health hazards There are several diseases that are linked to climate change and can be harmful to the health of Contra Costa County community members. Examples of these diseases include hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, Lyme disease, and West Nile virus, which can be debilitating or fatal for some of the population. These diseases are carried by animals such as mice and rats, ticks, and mosquitos. Climate change can increase the rate of infection because, with warmer temperatures earlier in the spring and later in the winter, these animals can be active for longer, widening the window for disease transmission. Warmer temperatures and more intense rainfall can lead to larger populations of animals such as mosquitos, rodents, and ticks, increasing the risk of contracting diseases carried by these animals. As described previously in the section on Agriculture, as the climate changes, temperatures are expected to get warmer earlier in the year and remain warmer until later in the year, creating a wider window for agricultural and urban pests and diseases to be active. Landslides and debris flows Landslides occur when a slope, such as the side of a hill or mountain, becomes unstable, causing soil and rocks to slide down the slope. Landslides are most common on steep slopes made up of loose soil and other materials and are often triggered by precipitation. The types of landslides caused by precipitation are typically debris flows (a landslide made of a wet mix of rock, soil, and other materials) and mudflows (or mudslides, which are primarily made of wet soil). Because they are so fluid, debris flows and mudflows can flow for long distances past the base of the slope and affect large areas. Landslides can damage or destroy buildings and infrastructure, block roadways, disrupt sensitive ecosystems, and injure or kill people in their path. Climate change does not directly cause more frequent or intense landslides. However, it is expected to increase the conditions that can lead to landslides, such as an increase in heavy storms that saturate the ground and make a landslide more likely. These events can cause significant damage to important infrastructure in Contra Costa County, as happened during the Morgan Territory landslide in 2017. After large storm events in January and February of that year, the resulting landslide snapped a water main and collapsed a section Chapter 3 42 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 of Morgan Territory Road, leaving homes without water for a week and closing the road for months. Wildfires also increase the likelihood of a landslide by removing vegetation that supports slopes and slows down water. Wildfires can alter soil conditions, increasing erosion and water runoff, further exacerbating slope instability. Because climate change is projected to increase wildfire activity, it is possible that this could also increase the size and/or intensity of future landslides. Severe storms Severe storms include strong winds, hail, and lightning. Severe weather is usually caused by intense storm systems, although some types of strong winds can occur without a storm. Hail can damage buildings and plants (and in extreme cases, injure people), and lightning can spark fires, injure people, or cause fatalities. There have been no reported damage or injuries from lightning in Contra Costa County, although hail up to 0.75 inches in diameter fell in portions of Contra Costa County in April of 1983. Severe winds, such as the Diablo Winds that blow in northern California in the spring and fall, can damage or destroy buildings, knock over trees, and damage power lines and electrical equipment (potentially causing wildfires). In some cases, strong winds can reach between 40 and 80 miles per hour, causing trees to fall and damage power lines. Strong winds are the most common type of severe weather in Contra Costa County. In winter 2023, a series of severe storms triggered high wind, flooding, and freeze warnings across the county. Felled trees and debris caused power outages, the cold temperatures caused delays on BART, and slick roads made driving more dangerous.12 The connection between climate change and severe storms is not as well established as other weather events, but new evidence suggests that severe storms may happen more often and more intensely than in the past. Climate change may affect strong winds that are not associated with intense storms, but scientists are not clear on how these wind patterns might change. 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 43 Sea level rise As global temperatures rise, glaciers and other land ice near the north and south poles melts. The water flows into the ocean, increasing sea levels across the globe. Higher temperatures also cause water to expand in oceans, further raising sea levels. Eventually, sea levels may increase enough to permanently flood low-lying areas near the Bay shoreline and Delta areas. Sea level rise threatens buildings, infrastructure, and ecosystems that may be temporarily or permanently flooded by water in the shoreline areas and Delta of Contra Costa County. Structures built above the increased sea level can still be harmed if the higher level of the water erodes away the rock or soil supporting the structure, potentially making it unsafe and at risk of collapse. Sea level rise can also promote saltwater intrusion into the Delta aquatic systems and groundwater basins, which would negatively affect water quality and aquatic habitats. Aquatic habitats may be harmed if industrial or oil facilities are inundated, as hazardous materials could be released into the soils and water. Shoreline flooding Rising sea levels mean that shoreline floods can become more severe and more frequent along shoreline communities and areas in the Delta. Because the ocean is at a higher level during new normal conditions, shoreline floods such as king tides can reach further onto land. Higher sea levels can also give a “boost” to smaller floods that would not have been large enough to flood dry land during past normal conditions, making shoreline flooding more frequent. During strong storms and king tides, shoreline flooding can damage or destroy buildings in low- lying areas, disrupt transportation routes, and harm important economic assets such as the oil refineries and the Delta. The communities facing In California, sea levels may increase in most places by 6 to 10 inches by 2030, 13 to 23 inches by 2050, and 41 to 83 inches by 2100, relative to the average sea levels between 1991 and 2009. However, it is possible that sea level may increase faster than these projections. Shoreline facilities, such as this marina, are at particular risk from shoreline flooding. Photo credit: Lisa Gorrell. Chapter 3 44 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 the greatest risk in the unincorporated areas of the county are North Richmond, Rodeo, Crockett, Bay Point, Bethel Island, and Discovery Bay. Shoreline flooding could also damage water infrastructure and interrupt regional and statewide water services. Wildfire Wildfires are a regular feature of the landscape in much of California. Winter rains support plant growth, and the summer dry season dries out vegetation, increasing the potential for ignition during the late summer and fall when temperatures are high. Wildfires are defined as fires burning in natural areas, but they can easily spread into the developed areas between urban and wildland zones, known as the wildland-urban interface. Large sections of Contra Costa County are considered to be high or very high fire hazard severity zones by CAL FIRE. This exposes people and property to the flames, increasing the risk of injury, death, and property damage or destruction. The smoke and ash from wildfires can increase air and water pollution levels and create a significant health risk in the region, particularly under weather conditions that prevent smoke from clearing, as happened during the Camp Fire in Butte County in Northern California (2018) and LNU Lightning Complex Fire in Northern California wine country areas (2020). Local ecosystems can be harmed by wildfire. Chaparral and scrub ecosystems are in high fire hazard severity zone areas. Although wildfires naturally occur in chaparral ecosystems, fires more than every 20 years can reduce the biodiversity of chaparral habitat and cause the ecosystem to convert to a grassland or scrub habitat. Riparian ecosystems can be harmed by wildfires due to loss of canopy and changes in soil structure, erosion, and shifts in specific composition due to changes in habitat structure. Large fires can cause widespread devastation throughout woodland areas in Contra Costa, particularly if trees have been weakened or killed by drought, extreme heat, or pest infestation. Climate change is expected to lead to an increase in wildfires throughout California. Warmer temperatures, an increase in drought conditions, and forestry pests and diseases are likely to create more fuel in State and federal wildlands and a greater chance that a spark will grow into a potentially dangerous blaze. Excessive heat and dry conditions have already contributed to the rapid spread of wildfires in Contra Costa County during events Fire activity is projected to increase where development expands in the wildland-urban interface, in addition to the dry hills around the Mount Diablo region in Contra Costa County. 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 45 such as the 3,700-acre Morgan Fire on Mount Diablo (2013); the 396,624-acre SCU Lightning Complex fires (2020), which impacted six counties; and the Franklin Fire (2022). Climate change is also expected to extend the fire season throughout much (or even all) of the year. Because wildfires burn the trees and other vegetation that help stabilize a hillside and absorb water, increases in fire activity may also lead to an increase in landslides and floods. GHG Inventory and Forecast INTRODUCTION A GHG inventory is an estimateaccounting of the GHG emissions attributable to a particular community over the course of a specific year. A GHG forecast takes information from the GHG inventory as well as predictions of future demographic trends and the projected impacts of climate-related legislation to predict future levels of GHG emissions. GHG emissions are generated by various activities that are commonplace in daily life, such as driving, electricity use, and water use. Some daily activities release GHG emissions in the location of the activity, such as gases released any time an internal combustion engine is operated. Other activities cause GHG emissions to be released elsewhere, such as using nonrenewable or non- carbon-free electricity to power a home, which generates GHG emissions in the location of the power plant that supplies the power, not in the home itself. Therefore, Contra Costa County must consider all GHG emissions caused by resulting from activities attributed to residents, business, workers, and visitors of the unincorporated community, including GHG emissions generated both inside and outside the County’s jurisdictional boundaries. Determining the annual level of GHG emissions for specific years on a recurring basis will aid the County in establishing an attainable goal for continually reducing emissions. Furthermore, knowing which activities release GHG emissions allows the County to develop policies and programs that facilitate a decrease in emissions for each activity. Chapter 3 46 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 The County has develops two types of GHG inventories: (1) community-wide inventories and (2) County operations inventories. • A community-wide GHG inventory identifies GHG emissions that result from activities of unincorporated Contra Costa County residents, employees, visitors, and other community members. Examples include GHG emissions from residents driving cars, homes using water, and businesses using electricity. The community-wide GHG inventory presented for the unincorporated county is a production-based inventory, which means that it assesses the GHG emissions produced by activities occurring in the community. • A County operations GHG inventory summarizes emissions that are a direct result of Contra Costa County’s government operations. Examples include GHG emissions from electricity and water used in County buildings or the fuel used for County vehicles. The project team prepared the new GHG inventories and updates to past GHG inventories consistent with the guidance in widely adopted, standard protocol documents. These protocols provide guidance on what activities should be evaluated in the GHG inventories and how emissions from those activities should be assessed. Using standard methods also allows for an easy comparison of GHG emission levels across multiple years and communities. The methods used to create these inventories are described in Appendix B. Determining the annual level of GHG emissions will aid the County in establishing an attainable goal for continually reducing emissions. Furthermore, knowing which activities release GHG emissions allows the County to develop policies and programs that facilitate a decrease in emissions for each activity. Details about implementing these GHG reduction activities are included in the Enacting the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan section in Chapter 6. 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 47 GHG Inventory The following sections present the results of the community-wide and County operations GHG inventories for the years 2005, 2013, 2017, and 2019. COMMUNITY INVENTORY The community-wide GHG inventory assessed GHG emissions from the following 11 categories of activities, known as sectors. • Transportation is GHG emissions created by driving on-road vehicles in the unincorporated county, including passenger and freight vehicles. • Residential energy is GHG emissions attributed to the use of electricity, natural gas, and other home heating fuels in residential buildings. • Nonresidential energy is GHG emissions attributed to the use of electricity and natural gas in nonresidential buildings. • Solid waste is the GHG emissions released from trash collected in the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County, as well as collective annual emissions from waste already in place at the Acme, Keller Canyon, and West Contra Costa Landfills. • Agriculture is GHG emissions from various agricultural activities in the unincorporated county, including agricultural equipment, crop cultivation and harvesting, fertilizer application, and livestock operations. • Off-road equipment is GHG emissions from equipment that does not provide on-road transportation (excluding agricultural equipment), such as tractors for construction, or equipment used for landscape Total community-wide emissions declined 2418 percent from 2005 to 2019. Chapter 3 48 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 maintenance, commercial and industrial equipment, and outdoor recreational equipment. • Water and wastewater accounts for the electricity used to transport and process water and wastewater used or generated by unincorporated county residents and businesses, as well as direct emissions resulting from wastewater treatment activities. • Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) is GHG emissions associated with the operation of BART for unincorporated county residents. • Land use and sequestration is GHG emissions absorbed and stored in trees and soils on locally controlled lands as part of healthy ecosystems and released into the atmosphere from development of previously undeveloped land. • Stationary sources are emissions from fuel use at major industrial facilities, permitted by State and regional air quality authorities. These emissions are informational and are not counted as part of the community total. • Wildfire includes emissions released as a result of wildfires. These emissions are informational and are not counted as part of the community total. • Direct access electricity is electricity purchased directly from an Electric Service Provider (ESP) rather than an investor-owned utility company or Community Choice Energy provider such as MCE, generally to power large industrial, commercial, and institutional facilities. The community-wide emissions inventory also records emissions released via wildfire and stationary sources such as oil refineries. Emissions from stationary sources, wildfire, and direct access electricity These emissions are reported for informational purposes but are not formally counted as part of the unincorporated county’s GHG emissions. 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 49 Contra Costa County is home to large industrial facilities whose operations have generated significant GHG emissions and/or products that create GHGs, such as gasoline for internal combustion engines. Most of those facilities were constructed before land use permits from the County were required. If these facilities apply for new land use permits, the County can impose new operational requirements in some circumstances. An example of this is applications the County received in 2020 from two refineries to process renewable fuels. There are several factors outside of the County’s control that influence the operations and related emissions and energy use at these facilities. The County has therefore elected to exclude the direct emissions and energy use at these facilities from consideration of the County’s GHG reduction goals for the following reasons: • These facilities are regulated primarily through the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and the California Energy Commission (CEC) and are subject to air quality and emissions standards set forth by the USEPA, CARB, and BAAQMD. • The energy used at some of these facilities fluctuates from year to year, depending on the demand for resources and the availability of other electricity-generating sources, such as hydropower or renewable resources. This makes it difficult to accurately forecast the energy use at these facilities. • The County has limited jurisdictional authority to reduce GHG emissions from these sources because they are subject to cap-and-trade regulations set forth by CARB. • The approach to excluding energy from sources that are outside of the County’s jurisdictional control is consistent with the U.S. Community Protocol for Accounting and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions. • The resultant jurisdictional inventory more accurately reflects the energy use from nonresidential customers in unincorporated Contra Costa County and allows the County to focus on actions that are within its control. Large industrial customers frequently purchase direct access electricity. Direct access customers can purchase electricity from any Electric Service Provider (ESP) operating in the state. Different EPSs will rely on different power sources with different proportions of fossil and renewable energy to produce electricity. The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) regulates the sale of direct access electricity in California, and the identities of direct access customers and the specific ESPs from which they purchase electricity are not made Chapter 3 50 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 available to the public. Given the County’s limited ability to monitor and regulate the sale and use of direct access electricity, as well as historical inconsistences in how direct access electricity use is reported, direct access emissions are reported for informational purposes only. Table 3 and Figure 7 show the community-wide GHG emissions for the unincorporated county during the four inventory years. Total community-wide emissions declined 18 percent from 2005 to 2019. Table 4 shows the proportion of GHG emissions from each sector for the unincorporated county for the four inventory years. TABLE 3. ABSOLUTE ANNUAL GHG EMISSIONS, 2005 TO 2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005–2019 Transportation (excluding BART) 628,200 651,130 571,650 464,040 -26% Energy - Residential 294,930 280,870 212,420 191,780 -35% Energy - Nonresidential 118,740 125,350 98,8501 85,390 -28% Solid waste 243,940 224,570 223,100 220,760 -10% Agriculture 33,350 39,300 44,880 36,130 8% Off-road equipment 34,160 36,290 42,840 54,010 58% Water and wastewater 8,080 7,400 4,400 4,870 -40% BART 1,040 1,320 1,440 190 -82% Land use and sequestration -70,860 -70,860 -70,860 -70,860 0% Total Annual MTCO2e 1,291,580 1,295,370 1,128,720 986,310 -24% Informational Items Stationary sources 13,983,030 11,956,000 11,232,290 10,867,670 -22% Wildfire 14,270 66,080 02 10,100 N/A3 Direct access electricity 04 04 04 74,130 N/A Note: All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. 1 Estimates of nonresidential electricity use in 2013 are used in 2017 to account for a lack of available data in 2017. 2 No wildfires were recorded in the unincorporated county in 2017. 3 Overall change between 2005 and 2019 for wildfire is not calculated because of the high degree of year-to- year variability. 4 PG&E did not provide direct access electricity use data in these years. 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 51 FIGURE 7. ABSOLUTE ANNUAL GHG EMISSIONS BY SECTOR, 2005 TO 2019 TABLE 4. PROPORTION OF GHG EMISSIONS, 2005 TO 2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 Transportation 49% 50% 51% 47% Energy - Residential 23% 22% 19% 19% Energy - Nonresidential 9% 10% 9% 9% Solid waste 19% 17% 20% 22% Agriculture 3% 3% 4% 4% Off-road equipment 3% 3% 4% 5% Water and wastewater 1% 1% Less than 1% Less than 1% BART Less than 1% Less than 1% Less than 1% Less than 1% Land use and sequestration -5% -5% -6% -7% Total Annual MTCO2e 100% 100% 100% 100% Note: Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows due to rounding. -200,000 0 200,000 400,000 600,000 800,000 1,000,000 1,200,000 1,400,000 1,600,000 2005 2013 2017 2019GHG Emissions (MTCO2e)Year Residential Energy Nonresidential Energy Transportation Solid Waste BART Off-road Equipment Water and Wastewater Agriculture Land Use and Sequestration Chapter 3 52 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 The transportation sector has consistently been the largest source of GHG emissions in the unincorporated county, accounting for between 476 and 513 percent of total community- wide GHG emissions (excluding informational items). Residential and nonresidential energy combined are the second-largest source of emissions, comprising 28 to 32 percent of community-wide emissions. Of the energy-related emissions, approximately 70 percent come from residential buildings and 30 from nonresidential buildings. In both building types, most emissions are associated with natural gas use. Solid waste is the third-largest source of emissions, accounting for between 17 and 22 percent of the community-wide total. Residential energy and solid waste are the second- and third-largest sources of GHG emissions, followed by nonresidential energy. Agriculture GHG emissions account for between 3 and 4 percent, and off-road equipment accounts for between 3 and 5 percent. GHG emissions from the water and wastewater and BART sectors are each 1 percent or less. The sectors that experienced the largest decrease in annual GHG emissions between 2005 and 2019 were BART (82 percent), water and wastewater (40 percent), residential energy (35 percent), nonresidential energy (28 percent), and transportation (26 percent). Collectively, emissions from energy use declined 33 percent over this time period. Emissions reductions also occurred in the solid waste sector (10 percent). and the nonresidential energy sector (8 percent). These changes are primarily due to an increase in renewable and carbon-free electricity, the County joining MCE in 2017 (which provides more electricity from renewable and carbon-free sources than PG&E), and better resource- efficiency practices by community members. Emissions reductions also occurred in the solid waste sector (10 percent). Threewo sectors nonresidential energy, off-road equipment, and agriculture saw increases in their emissions from 2005 to 2019. Between 2005 and 2019, offroad emissions increased by 58 percent. Increases in offroad emissions are due to increased emissions from agricultural and other types of commercial and industrial equipment. Agricultural emissions increased due to changes in crop activity and livestock population. Detailed summaries of changes in GHG emissions by sector appear in Appendix B. The transportation sector has consistently been the largest source of GHG emissions in unincorporated Contra Costa County. The sectors that experienced the largest decrease in annual GHG emissions between 2005 and 2019 were BART, water and wastewater, residential energy, and transportation. 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 53 Per-person GHG emissions Along with the “absolute” GHG emission levels discussed previously, the project team assessed the per-person GHG emissions from the unincorporated county. The team calculates per-person GHG emissions by taking the absolute GHG emissions in Table 3 and dividing them by the number of residents in the unincorporated county for that inventory year. Table 5 and Figure 8 show the per-person emissions for the inventory years for the unincorporated county. Overall, per-person emissions declined 3227 percent from 2005 to 2019. Because the population of the unincorporated county grew during this time, most sectors saw their per- person emissions decline. Even for sectors that had increases in their absolute emissions, such as Agriculture, population growth resulted in a decline in per-person emissions. Only per-capita off-road equipment emissions increased between 2005 and 2019. The two sectors that saw an increase in per-person emissions were Off-road equipment, and Nonresidential energy, although the per-person emissions grew by 53 percent from 2005 to 2019 compared to a 73 percent increase in absolute emissions. TABLE 5. PER-PERSON GHG EMISSIONS, 2005 TO 2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005–2019 Population Residents 154,270 165,700 174,110 174,150 13% Emissions (MTCO2e per-person) Transportation 4.07 3.93 3.28 2.66 -35% Energy - Residential 1.91 1.70 1.22 1.10 -42% Energy - Nonresidential 0.77 0.76 0.57 0.49 -36% Solid waste 1.58 1.36 1.28 1.27 -20% Agriculture 0.22 0.24 0.26 0.21 -4% Off-road equipment 0.22 0.22 0.25 0.31 53% Water and wastewater 0.05 0.04 0.03 0.03 -47% BART 0.01 0.01 0.01 Less than 0.01 -84% Land use and sequestration -0.46 -0.43 -0.41 -0.41 -11% Chapter 3 54 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005–2019 Total Annual (MTCO2e per-person) 8.37 7.82 6.48 5.66 -32% Informational Items Stationary Sources 90.64 72.15 64.51 62.40 -31% Wildfire 0.09 0.40 0.00 0.06 N/A1* Direct access electricity 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.44 N/A2** Note: All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. 1 Overall change between 2005 and 2019 is not calculated because of the high degree of year-to-year variability. 2 Overall change between 2005 and 2019 is not calculated because of limited availability of direct access electricity use data between 2005 and 2017. FIGURE 8. PER-PERSON ANNUAL GHG EMISSIONS BY SECTOR, 2005 TO 2019 -2.0 0.0 2.0 4.0 6.0 8.0 10.0 2005 2013 2017 2019 GHG Emissions (MTCO2e per person)Year Transportation Solid Waste Residential Energy Nonresidential Energy Off-road Equipment Agriculture Water and Wastewater BART Land Use and Sequestration 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 55 The typical resident in Contra Costa County… …uses about 4,610 kWh of electricity annually. …uses about 200 therms of natural gas each year. …drives about 6,530 miles annually. …throws out about 910 pounds of trash each year. …uses about 46,000 gallons of water annually. COUNTY GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS EMISSIONS INVENTORY Contra Costa County conducted government operations emissions inventories in 2006 and 2017. 8 In 2006, Contra Costa County government operations emissions totaled 54,130 MTCO2e for the sectors reported in this inventory (see Table 6). In 2017, County government operations GHG emissions were 43,380 MTCO2e, a 20 percent decrease from 2006. This decrease is primarily the result of reductions in energy use, reductions in County Fleet emissions, and reductions in government-generated solid waste. The 2017 inventory also includes emissions from Wastewater Treatment and Refrigerants, which were not included in the 2006 inventory. In summary: 8 The budget for the 2024 CAAP included one County operations inventory. The County operations inventory will be updated on a regular basis, along with the community-wide inventory. In 2017, GHG emissions from County government operations were 43,380 MTCO2e, a 20 percent decrease from 2006. This decrease is primarily the result of reductions in energy use, reductions in County fleet emissions, and reductions in government-generated solid waste. Chapter 3 56 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 • The largest source of emissions in 2017 is from the Employee Commute sector (25,800 MTCO2e). In the 2006 inventory, Employee Commute is also the largest contributor of GHG emissions (23,530 MTCO2e). • Significant emissions also originate from the Buildings and Facilities sector (12,500 MTCO2e in 2017) and Government (County) Fleet (3,430 MTCO2e in 2017). • Emissions from every sector except for Employee Commute decreased between 2006 and 2017. There was a 10 percent increase in GHG emissions related to Employee Commute over this time. • The greatest reduction in the amount of emissions was in the Buildings and Facilities sector (–6,760 MTCO2e), followed by Government (County) Fleet sector (–5,070 MTCO2e), and Solid Waste (–1,070 MTCO2e). • The number of County employees increased by 19 percent from 2006, accounting for 1,335 new positions in 2017. • County employee transportation VMT increased, although this increase was slightly offset by improvements in vehicle efficiency. As a result, overall employee commute emissions increased 10 percent from 2006 to 2017. • Energy usage in Buildings and Facilities as well as the Public Lighting sector emissions decreased overall due in large part to lower utility electricity emissions factors and energy efficiency. • Annual solid waste volumes decreased. Figure 9 compares 2017 GHG emissions to the 2006 baseline GHG emissions for the County operations inventory. Local Energy Providers As of January 2024, approximately 88.7 percent of customers in unincorporated Contra Costa County are buying electricity from MCE, a not-for-profit clean energy provider. Approximately 7.1 percent of these accounts, equating to 4,422 accounts, are enrolled in MCE’s Deep Green electricity service, which provides electricity from 100 percent renewable energy. As a result of MCE’s generation services, an estimated 3,485.73 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent were reduced in the unincorporated areas of the county in 2023. PG&E provides electricity to most of the remaining customers, as well as providing natural gas to all customers. Some large industrial facilities receive electricity from third-party providers. Some residents heat their homes using propane, kerosene, or wood. 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 57 FIGURE 9. 2006 BASELINE AND 2017 COUNTY OPERATIONS GHG EMISSIONS SUMMARY TABLE 6. 2006 BASELINE AND 2017 COUNTY OPERATIONS GHG EMISSIONS SUMMARY SECTOR 2006 GHG EMISSIONS (MTCO2E) 2017 GHG EMISSIONS (MTCO2E) PERCENTAGE CHANGE Employee commute 23,530 25,800 10% Buildings and facilities 19,260 12,500 -35% Government fleet 8,500 3,430 -60% Government-generated solid waste 1,980 900 -54% Public lighting 830 440 -47% Water and wastewater Not included 220 — Refrigerants Not included 90 — Total 54,090 43,380 -20% Notes: These inventories assume 8,420 County employees in 2006 and 10,030 employees in 2017, a 19% increase. All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not add up to the sum of individual rows due to rounding. 0 10,000 20,000 30,000 40,000 50,000 60,000 2006 2017GHG emissions (MTCO2e)Employee commute Buildings and facilities Government fleet Government-generated solid waste Public lighting Water and wastewater Refrigerants Chapter 3 58 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 Many factors contribute to changes in GHG emissions. Key factors may include changes in electricity and natural gas use, the proportion of electricity obtained from carbon-free sources, VMT, vehicle fuel efficiency, landfilled waste tonnage, temperature (affecting heating and cooling demand), and demographic changes (e.g., changes in population, household, and job numbers). Sector-specific descriptions of sources of and changes in GHG emissions are provided in Appendix B. CONSUMPTION-BASED INVENTORY EMISSIONS The community-wide GHG inventory presented for the unincorporated county is a protocol-compliant, production-based inventory, which means that it assesses the GHG emissions produced by activities occurring in the community. However, the inventory does not account for most of the emissions created by the consumption of food or material goods or use of services in the unincorporated county, including emissions from the manufacture and transportation of goods purchased in the community, food grown and processed in other locations, air travel by unincorporated Contra Costa County community members, and the disposal or reprocessing of certain materials and products. For example, if someone who lives or works in an unincorporated county community purchases new clothes, the production-based inventory will include vehicle emissions for the trip to and from the store, energy use at the store and home, and any landfilled waste generated. It would not include emissions from the growing and processing of the raw materials in the clothes, the manufacturing of the clothes, transportation of the clothes to the store, or the reprocessing of any waste materials that do not end up in a landfill, unless these activities occur within the unincorporated county. In contrast to a production-based inventory, a second type of GHG inventory, known as a consumption-based inventory, looks at a wider array of GHG emissions created by the goods and services used by unincorporated county community members, including residents, businesses, and employees. A consumption-based inventory assesses emissions associated with the manufacture, transportation, and disposal of these goods and services regardless of where they occur. Such inventories can provide a more complete picture of the GHG emissions associated with the lifestyle and consumer behavior of unincorporated county community members. A consumption-based inventory assesses emissions associated with the manufacture, transportation, and disposal of these goods and services regardless of where they occur. 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 59 A consumption-based inventory is more complex to prepare than a production-based inventory. There are not established protocols and methods for consumption-based inventories, and California does not yet have a statewide consumption-based inventory or any guidance for preparing one. Due to these limitations, the project team did not prepare one as part of this 2024 CAAP. In 2015, BAAQMD worked with the Cool Climate Network at the University of California, Berkeley, to prepare a consumption-based inventory for all Bay Area jurisdictions. This inventory includes GHG emissions from the following sources: • Travel: GHG emissions from fuel use by on-road vehicles, vehicle manufacturing and repairs, public transportation, and air travel. • Housing: GHG emissions from electricity and natural gas use in homes as well as other fuels associated with home heating (such as kerosene or fuel oil), electricity emissions from water and wastewater activities, and waste emissions. This category also includes emissions from the manufacture, transportation, and construction and demolition of materials used to construct houses. • Food: GHG emissions from the growth, processing/manufacturing, and transportation of food products. • Goods: GHG emissions from the manufacture, transportation, and disposal of consumer products, such as home furnishings, appliances and electronics, clothing, and healthcare and personal items. • Services: GHG emissions from personal and business services, including entertainment and recreation, communication, education, healthcare, and maintenance and repair activities. Some of these GHG emission sources are also included in the production-based inventory prepared as part of the 2024 CAAP, and others are covered by either the production-based or consumption-based inventory but not both. According to the consumption-based inventory, transportation is responsible for 15.5 MTCO2e per household, or 34 percent of emissions produced by activities conducted and goods consumed within unincorporated Contra Costa County. Food is responsible for 8.79 MTCO2e per household (19 percent), goods and services for 7.89 MTCO2e per household and 7.97 MTCO2e per household, respectively (17 percent each), and housing for 6.18 MTCO2e per household, or 13 percent (see Figure 10). Chapter 3 60 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 FIGURE 10. CONSUMPTION-BASED GHG EMISSIONS INVENTORY RESULTS While the 2024 CAAP does not directly speak to the goods and services used and offered by residents, business, and industry, the Contra Costa County community should recognize the role that consumption patterns play in achieving the County’s sustainability and climate goals. 15.50 6.18 8.76 7.89 7.97 0 10 20 30 40 50 GHG emissions (MTCO2e per Household) Transportation Housing Food Goods Services 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 61 GHG Emissions and Food Consumption Food production, transport, storage, cooking, and waste are substantial contributors to GHG emissions, accounting for approximately 30 percent of emissions globally. These emissions include carbon dioxide, from fossil fuels used to power farm machinery and to transport, store, and cook foods; methane, released by animals as part of their digestive process; and nitrous oxide, released from tilled and fertilized soils. The majority of the emissions associated with food consumption occur outside of Contra Costa County. Different food groups are associated with different levels of GHG emissions. Animal-based products are generally responsible for significantly greater emissions than plant-based products per unit weight. Emissions are released during multiple stages of the meat-producing process, including the cultivation of cereal crops to use as animal feed, which may require the conversion of existing forestland; during the animal digestive process; and during the decomposition of animal wastes. Emissions are also generated during the meat storage, processing, and transportation process. Plant-based foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, and lentils, typically require fewer resources to cultivate. According to the consumption-based inventory, meat is responsible for approximately 30 percent of diet-related GHG emissions within unincorporated Contra Costa County. Research has also found that healthier diets tend to be associated with lower GHG emissions. Fostering awareness of the connection between food choices and the environment can therefore be an effective way of lowering GHG emissions and promoting healthy lifestyles. The 2024 CAAP and General Plan help reduce emissions associated with food consumption by including policies to support local food production and equitable access to healthy food. Sources: Clune S, Crossin E, Verghese K (2017). Systematic review of greenhouse gas emissions for different fresh food categories. Journal of Cleaner Production 140(2): https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0959652616303584. Rippin HL, Cade JE, Berrang-Ford L, Benton TG, Hancock N, Greenwood DC (2021). Variations in greenhouse gas emissions of individual diets: Associations between the greenhouse gas emissions and nutrient intake in the United Kingdom. PLoS ONE 16(11): e0259418. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0259418. Scarborough P, Appleby PN, Mizdrak A, Briggs ADM, Travis RC, Bradbury KE, Key TJ (2014). Dietary greenhouse gas emissions of meat-eaters, fish-eaters, vegetarians, and vegans in the UK. Climate Change 125(2): 179-192. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4372775/ Chapter 3 62 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 GHG Forecast The following sections present the results of the community-wide and County operations GHG emissions forecasts for the years 2030 and 2045. For a detailed description of GHG forecast methods and assumptions, see Appendix B. ABSOLUTE BUSINESS-AS-USUAL GHG EMISSIONS FORECAST Table 7 and Figure 11 show an estimate of unincorporated Contra Costa County’s projected future GHG emissions if no further action is taken at the state, regional, or local level to reduce emissions, relative to the 2019 inventory. These projections are obtained by applying projected changes in community population to resource use and transportation behavior recorded in 2019. As such, these projections do not account for any potential changes in transportation or resource use directly resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, the long-term effects of which are not currently known. Most sectors show an increase in GHG emissions due to the growing population. Agricultural emissions decrease because the amount of land used for agricultural purposes is projected to decline. Although the land use and sequestration sector is expected to remain a net carbon sink (negative emissions), the amount of emissions sequestered (removed from the atmosphere) by the activities in this sector are projected to decline. This is due to anticipated development of currently undeveloped land, removing the potential for this land to sequester, or store, carbon. Sequestration in forested and urbanized areas is projected to increase slightly. TABLE 7. ABSOLUTE BUSINESS-AS-USUAL GHG EMISSIONS FORECAST, 2019 TO 2045 SECTOR 2019 2030 2045 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2019–2045 Transportation 464,040 542,020 605,080 30% Energy - Residential 191,780 217,710 259,380 35% Energy - Nonresidential 85,590 93,590 106,070 24% Solid waste 220,760 229,450 260,490 18% Agriculture 36,130 34,770 33,410 -8% Off-road equipment 54,010 69,520 76,100 41% Water and wastewater 4,870 5,530 6,590 35% BART 190 220 260 37% Land use and sequestration -70,860 -67,580 -58,890 -17% Total Annual MTCO2e 986,310 1,125,230 1,288,490 31% 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 63 FIGURE 11. ABSOLUTE BUSINESS-AS-USUAL GHG EMISSIONS FORECAST, 2019 TO 2045 -200,000 0 200,000 400,000 600,000 800,000 1,000,000 1,200,000 1,400,000 1,600,000 2019 2030 2045GHG Emissions (MTCO2e)Year Transportation Solid Waste Residential Energy Nonresidential Energy Off-road Equipment Agriculture Water and Wastewater BART Land Use and Sequestration Chapter 3 64 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 This page intentionally left blank. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 65 4. G REENHOUSE G AS EMISSION REDUCTION STRATEGY 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Briones Valley. Photo credit: Stephen Joseph. GHG Emissions Reduction Goals A key part of any CAAP is one or more goals for future GHG emissions levels. These goals may be “firm” levels of GHG emission reductions supported by State regulations and local commitments (also called regulatory goals) or aspirations that go beyond adopted minimums and represent a higher level of GHG emission reductions that communities can strive toward. The 2024 CAAP includes GHG emission reduction goals for 2030 and 2045. As discussed in Chapter 2, California has two statewide regulatory goals for reduction of GHGs: • Reduce GHG emissions to 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030. This goal was codified into law by SB 32. • Reduce emissions to 85 percent below 1990 levels and achieve net carbon neutrality by 2045. This is the goal codified by AB 1279. Chapter 4 66 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 The 2022 Scoping Plan recommends that local governments support statewide efforts to achieve net carbon neutrality by achieving an 85 percent reduction in GHG emissions compared to 1990 by 2045. The 2022 Scoping Plan also removes specific goals for per- person emissions reductions that appeared in previous versions. The BAAQMD 2020 CEQA Guidelines,13 CEQA Thresholds for Evaluating the Significance of Climate Impacts from Land Use Projects and Plans, require that local climate action plans such as the 2024 CAAP be consistent with these State-level goals. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY’S GHG EMISSION REDUCTION GOALS Local GHG emissions reduction efforts, such as this 2024 CAAP, may select any GHG emissions reduction goals that are appropriate for unincorporated Contra Costa County. However, to comply with State and regional guidelines for CEQA, the GHG emission reduction goals in the 2024 CAAP should be broadly consistent with the State-level goals. Additionally, the 2045 General Plan informs the County’s land use decisions and related policies out to 2045; therefore, consistency with the State’s 2045 goal also aligns with the General Plan’s horizon year. Given these considerations, the GHG emissions reduction goals for Contra Costa County are: • Reduce GHG emissions to 658,700 MTCO2e by 2030. • Reduce GHG emissions to 164,680 MTCO2e by 2045. Table 8 and Figure 12 show these emission goals and how they compare to the County’s projected business-as-usual GHG emissions in Chapter 3. TABLE 8. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY BUSINESS-AS-USUAL GHG EMISSIONS FORECAST AND EMISSION GOALS, 2019 TO 2045 2019 2030 2045 Business-as-usual forecast GHG emissions 986,310 MTCO2e 1,125,230 MTCO2e 1,288,490 MTCO2e Goal N/A 658,700 MTCO2e 164,680 MTCO2e GHG emissions to be reduced N/A 466,530 MTCO2e 1,123,810 MTCO2e 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 67 FIGURE 12. BUSINESS-AS-USUAL FORECAST GHG EMISSIONS AND REDUCTION GOALS Existing and Planned GHG Emissions Reduction Efforts The County must substantially reduce its GHG emissions to achieve its goals. Fortunately, the State of California and regional and local agencies there are already have several efforts in place or planned at the State and regional level that are expected to reduce GHG emissions in the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County without the County taking additional action. The County can receive “credit” for the level of GHG emissions reduced locally by these existing and planned efforts. STATE REDUCTION EFFORTS California has adopted and committed to implementing policies to decrease GHG emission levels statewide, including from several of the major GHG emission sources in the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County. Many of these policies are identified in the 2008 Scoping Plan and have been revised and expanded by successive updates. - 200,000 400,000 600,000 800,000 1,000,000 1,200,000 1,400,000 2005 2019 2030 2045GHG Emissions (MTCO2e)Baseline emissions Business-as-usual forecast emissions Goal emissions Emission reductions needed Chapter 4 68 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 The CARB Scoping Plan and related documents lay out several State-led policies to reduce GHG emissions, but six policies have a direct and apparent GHG emission reduction benefit to unincorporated Contra Costa County: tThe Renewables Portfolio Standard (RPS), Clean Car Standards, Title 24 building energy efficiency standards, the Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS), the Short-Lived Climate Pollutant Reduction Strategy, and Renewable Natural Gas. An in-depth description of these initiatives and their projected GHG emission savings are provided in Appendix B. Because these are State-led programs, Contra Costa County will not be involved in their implementation or regulation. 1. The Renewables Portfolio Standard requires increases in renewable and carbon-free electricity supplies. 2. The Clean Car Standards require increased fuel efficiency of on-road vehicles and decreased carbon intensity of vehicle fuels. 3. The updated Title 24 building energy efficiency standards require new buildings to achieve increased energy-efficiency goals, and in some cases to install rooftop solar panels. The latest version of these standards went into effect January 1, 2023. 4. The Low Carbon Fuel Standard mandates reduced carbon intensity of fuels used in off-road equipment. 5. The Short-Lived Climate Pollutant Reduction Strategy, also known as SB 1383, requires that jurisdictions provide organic waste collection services, recover edible food, and keep most organic waste out of landfills. 6. Renewable Natural Gas assumes that biomethane and renewable hydrogen fuels will be blended into the fossil gas pipeline and that, in the 2030s, dedicated hydrogen pipelines will be constructed to serve certain industrial clusters. The project team estimated GHG savings from the Clean Car Standards using State modeling tools released in 2021. These models do not consider newer State regulations to accelerate the transition to zero-emission vehicles, and so they do not reflect all the expected GHG reductions from zero-emission vehicles in Contra Costa County. The remaining savings are covered in Strategy TR-2, which is discussed later in this chapter. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 69 REGIONAL AND LOCAL REDUCTION EFFORTS In addition to State actions, the County’s default electricity provider, MCE, has also taken action to reduce the GHG emissions from the electricity it supplies to unincorporated Contra Costa County community members, beyond the minimum required by the RPS. In 2019, MCE electricity was approximately 60 percent renewable and 90 percent carbon- free. In future years, MCE will work to source 95 percent of its electricity from carbon-free sources. When quantifying the emissions impacts from electricity procurement policies, GHG emissions reductions from RPS are considered first. The County also enacted an all- electric reach code (suspended in February 2024, as discussed in Chapter 1), which required many types of new buildings to not use natural gas. The reductions from MCE clean energy procurement and the all-electric reach code shown in Table 9 represent savings obtained after the effects of the RPS have been considered. Table 9 shows the GHG emissions reduction potential from the State-level efforts, and MCE’s energy procurement plans and projected levels of adoption of MCE Deep Green, and the all- electric reach code. as well asThis table also shows how unincorporated Contra Costa County’s GHG emission levels with these reductions compares to the goals discussed previously. TABLE 9. GHG EMISSION REDUCTIONS FROM EXISTING AND PLANNED STATE, REGIONAL, AND LOCAL ACTIONS, 2019 TO 2045 2019 MTCO2E 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E Forecast emissions without existing and planned actions 986,310 1,125,230 1,288,490 Reductions from RPS - -3,640 -41,270 Reductions from Clean Car standards - -110,250 -214,120 Reductions from Title 24 - -9,880 -31,600 Reductions from LCFS (off-road only) * - 740 7,430 Reductions from SB 1383 -21,880 -53,870 Reductions from renewable natural gas - -18,460 -78,050 Reductions from MCE clean energy procurement - -1,240 - Reductions from all-electric reach code (suspended February 2024) - -3,150 -2,590 Reductions from all existing and planned state, regional, and local actions -188,740 -488,200 Remaining emissions with existing and planned state, regional, and local actions 986,310 957,470 874,420 *Due to how the off-road equipment emissions from LCFS are calculated, the results show a minor increase in emissions from this sector. Chapter 4 70 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 New Reduction Strategies To Achieve Our Goals The 2024 CAAP uses a process called quantification to determine the amount of GHG emissions reduced by each strategy. The foundation for the quantification calculations is the baseline GHG inventory and forecast. Activity data from the inventory, such as VMT or kilowatt-hours, are combined with participation rates and data about the reduction in activity data from each action to calculate the GHG emissions reduction benefit of each strategy. This approach ensures that the GHG emissions reductions from the 2024 CAAP strategies are tied to current and future community activities. See Appendix B for additional quantification details for each strategy, including key assumptions and performance targets. Calculations for reduction in activity data come from tools and reports provided by government agencies; these agencies include the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), California Energy Commission (CEC), California Air Resources Board (CARB), California Air Pollution Control Officers Association, US Department of Energy, and local air districts. If accurate data are not available through these sources, quantification uses case studies from comparable communities and applicable scholarly research. This 2024 CAAP identifies GHG emissions reductions for most of the strategies. However, there are a few that do not have a specific reduction level due to missing data or the lack of reliable methodology. These efforts are still expected to reduce GHG emissions, but by how much cannot be accurately determined. These strategies are labeled “supportive”. Strategies that only reduce electricity use or increase renewable electricity supplies will show zero GHG emissions reductions in 2045. This is because the State’s RPS requires all electricity sold in California to be carbon-free by 2045. Because there will already be no emissions from electricity use in 2045, Contra Costa County cannot count additional reductions associated with electricity in this year. This 2024 CAAP already credits reductions from the RPS as an existing State program. Strategy BE-3 is not expected to result in any GHG savings in 2045 due to the State’s RPS requirements. With the 2024 CAAP in place, the following are projected to occur before 2045: • Average natural gas use per household will decline by 92 percent. • The average resident will drive 15 percent fewer miles per year. • The average resident will generate 18 percent less solid waste. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 71 Local renewable energy systems and energy efficiency strategies will continue to provide several co-benefits to communities, including lower electricity bills and increased resiliency against power disruptions, even if there are no measurable additional GHG emissions reductions. The County recognizes the opportunity for microgrids, if they are found to be technically and economically feasible, both by the private sector and for County facilities. GHG EMISSIONS REDUCTION STRATEGIES This section presents the presents 28 11 climate action strategies , including 11 that make up the County’s GHG emissions reduction approach. These strategies include a mix of education and outreach programs to encourage GHG emissions reduction activities, financial subsidies, and other enticements to incentivize GHG emissions reductions and mandates to require GHG emissions reductions. In addition to the 11 climate action strategies presented in this section, The remainingan additional 17 strategies make up the 2024 CAAP’s adaptation and resilience approach (discussed in Chapter 5) and the implementation approach (discussed in Chapter 6). More information on how these strategies were developed is provided in Appendix B. The 11 GHG emissions reduction strategies are organized into five categories, each with a goal: Clean and Efficient Built Environment (BE) No Waste Contra Costa (NW) Reduce Water Use and Increase Drought Resilience (DR) Clean Transportation Network (CT) Climate Equity (CE) Each strategy presented in this 2024 CAAP includes a description of the strategy, an estimate of the absolute 2030 and 2045 GHG emissions reductions anticipated from the strategy at the projected performance level, the recommended actions necessary to implement it, and community co-benefits. For additional implementation details for each strategy, see Table 12. Chapter 4 72 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 Recommended actions represent the County’s current understanding of best practices in achieving GHG emissions reductions and community equity, availability of technology, and local regulations as well as the current State and federal regulatory environment. County staff will revisit these recommended actions as conditions change and new opportunities become available. Figure 13 provides definitions of goals, strategies, and actions, as used in this CAAP. During the time the CAAP was under development, some of the actions were completed. These actions are included below, to facilitate tracking of the ongoing progress Contra Costa County is making in achieving its climate action goals. FIGURE 13. DEFINING A CAAP GOAL, STRATEGY, AND ACTION CAAP Goal: An end statement describing the general result sought by the community. Each goal has associated strategies and actions. Goals are given abbreviations based on their topic (for example, TR for Transportation). CAAP Strategy: A specific statement to guide decision making as the County works to achieve the GHG reduction targets and climate action goals. Strategies are statements of policy and intent. Each strategy is supported by a series of actions. Strategies are numbered based on the goal they fall under (for example, BE-2 is the second strategy under the Built Environment goal). CAAP Action: A recommended measure, program, procedure, or technique to implement the associated strategy. Actions are concrete steps for the County to take, in collaboration with community members and key partners. They are not a comprehensive list of everything the County can do to implement the strategy. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 73 Community co-benefits are additional advantages of the strategy to communities beyond GHG emissions reduction. The 2024 CAAP highlights 12 co-benefits that a GHG emissions reduction strategy can provide, although strategies may provide additional benefits beyond those identified here: Cost savings Enhanced recreation opportunities Greater community resilience Greater energy independence Improved air quality Improved community equity Improved public health Increased economic opportunities Increased resilience to pests Reduced disaster effects Reduced landfill waste Reduced resource use Chapter 4 74 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 General Plan alignment The goals, strategies, and recommended implementation actions in this CAAP are in sync with the approach to reduce GHG emissions and address climate adaptation contained in the County’s 2045 General Plan, which is discussed in greater detail in Chapter 1. Where appropriate, the strategy language in the 2024 CAAP is identical to policy or action language in the General Plan. In other instances, the General Plan language provides a high-level framework for the more specific strategy wording in the 2024 CAAP. There are also cross-references in the 2024 CAAP at the end of relevant actions, indicating where the General Plan addresses the same topic. Each cross-reference is made up of three parts: (1) a General Plan abbreviation, (2) a designation of a policy or action, and (3) the number of the referred policy or action. The cross-references use the following abbreviations for General Plan elements. Note that not all General Plan elements are cross-referenced in the 2024 CAAP, and so are not listed here: • COS: Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands • HS: Health and Safety • SC: Stronger Communities • PFS: Public Facilities and Services • GM: Growth Management A cross-reference containing an element abbreviation followed by “P” refers to a policy, while a cross-reference containing an element abbreviation “A” refers to an action. This designation is then followed by two numbers. The first number is the goal under which the policy or action may be found. The second number is the number of the policy or action under that goal. For example, a cross-reference to HS-P8.3 refers to the Health and Safety Element, Goal 8, and the third policy under that goal. Similarly, COS-A14.4 refers to the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element, Goal 14, and the fourth action under that goal. This approach is intended to help ensure consistency between the General Plan and the 2024 CAAP, making it clear that both documents work together to address GHG reductions and improve resilience to climate change. In addition to policies in the General Plan that provide direction on specific topics that are relevant to the 2024 CAAP, there are three policies that address overarching issues in the 2024 CAAP. These three policies are contained in the Health and Safety Element of the General Plan. All three fall under Goal HS-3. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 75 General Plan Policy HS-P3.1 Prioritize implementation of the Contra Costa County Climate Action and Adaptation Plan to reduce GHG emissions from community-wide sources and adapt to changing climate conditions. General Plan Policy HS-P3.2 Facilitate carbon-neutral development projects and communities that support a circular economy, net-zero-emission modes of transportation, reliable and renewable energy resources, energy-efficient buildings, zero waste, water efficiency and conservation, green infrastructure, soil conservation, and a system of natural and working lands that support natural carbon sequestration and climate resilience. General Plan Policy HS-P3.3 Require new development projects using the Contra Costa County Climate Action and Adaptation Plan to streamline their environmental review of GHG emissions, as permitted by CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5, to demonstrate consistency with the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan and incorporate applicable GHG reduction and climate change adaptation measures. These three policies, along with the more specific General Plan policies cross-referenced in the following sections, support the development and implementation of the 2024 CAAP. General Plan Goal HS-3 Communities that reduce existing and anticipated greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in support of statewide carbon neutrality goals and other GHG reduction targets. Chapter 4 76 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CLEAN AND EFFICIENT BUILT ENVIRONMENT (BE) HOMES, WORKPLACES, AND BUSINESSES IN UNINCORPORATED CONTRA COSTA COUNTY RUN EFFICIENTLY ON CLEAN ENERGY . Homes and commercial buildings in Contra Costa County. The structure of the built environment plays a significant role in how members of the Contra Costa County community work, play, live, and allocate personal resources. Community decisions about the structure, form, and function of homes, businesses, and other vital community structures represent a significant, long-term investment in a particular way of living life and conducting business. The built environment uses a significant amount of energy and is responsible for a large share of Contra Costa County’s GHG emissions. However, as shown in Figure 14, increasing the proportion of communities’ energy mix that comes from carbon-free and renewable sources can dramatically reduce emissions resulting from electricity use within buildings. These strategies, combined with investing in energy- efficient buildings and retrofits, and reducing the resource intensity of building materials will reduce GHG emissions and energy use. These efforts can also reduce utility costs, improve local air quality, and make the neighborhoods of Contra Costa County more resilient, comfortable, and habitable in the face of the effects of climate change. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 77 FIGURE 14. EMISSIONS PRODUCED PER KWH OF ELECTRICITY, MCE AND PG&E BE-1: Require and incentivize new buildings and additions built in unincorporated Contra Costa County to be low-carbon or carbon neutral. Under this strategy, there will be more new carbon- neutral and low-carbon buildings in unincorporated Contra Costa County through efforts to build all- electric new construction and use carbon- neutral/low-carbon building materials. This strategy builds on the County’s existing previously adopted All-Electric Building Ordinance, which was suspended in February 2024 because of a federal court ruling in January 2024 that precludes cities and counties from adopting ordinances that prohibit the installation of gas plumbing in buildings. This ordinance which requires required that all new residential (including single-family homes, multifamily buildings, and accessory dwelling units), hotels, office buildings, and retail buildings to be all- electric. These buildings may notwere not permitted to have natural gas plumbing, and they must had to use electricity as the sole source of energy for space heating (including indoor and outdoor spaces), water heating (including 0.000000 0.000020 0.000040 0.000060 0.000080 0.000100 0.000120 2017 2019 2030 2040 2045GHG emissions (MTCO2e/kWh)Electricity (PG&E)Electricity (MCE) Contra Costa County’s Administration Building and Jail Demolition and Redevelopment Project is the County’s first True Resource Use and Efficiency (TRUE) pre-certified project. The project incorporated used furniture and office supplies and other salvaged materials; over 90 percent of building materials were diverted materials. The project is the first government construction project in the world to achieve TRUE precertification. Chapter 4 78 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 heating of indoor or outdoor pools and spas), cooking appliances, and clothes drying appliances. Such buildings may were allowed to use emergency backup power sources that are fossil-fuel operated. This ordinance must needed be updated when the County adopts a new version of the California Energy Code every three years. The County is preparing a new ordinance to replace its suspended all-electric ordinance committed to renewing finding an alternative to this ordinance in future yearsthat will support high levels of energy efficiency and low levels of GHG emissions for new construction. This ordinance is expected to take effect on January 1, 2025, and will be considered for updates during future revisions to the Building Standards Code. 2030 2045 GHG emissions reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 4,34013,620 10,970710 Strategy BE-1 Co-benefits: Cost savings Improved air quality Improved community equity Improved public health Increased economic opportunities Increased resilience to pests Reduced resource use Strategy BE-1 Actions: ▪ Continue Consider a,Aadoptinging new or modified reach codes and consider future updates that exceed the California Building Standards Code as the State updates the Building Code every three years, to require the use of lower-carbon intensive energy sources, to achieve higher feasible levels of energy conservation and efficiencyperformance, and to achieve lower feasible levels of GHG emissions. (COS- A14.4) ▪ Maintain, update, andpPublicize and enforce the County Oordinances and programs Code Title 7 – Building Regulations amendment requiring new residential buildings, hotels, offices, and retail to be all-electricmore energy efficient, with low levels of GHG emissions. Evaluate the feasibility of including other building types as appropriate. (COS- A14.5) 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 79 ▪ Partner with community groups and MCE to establish an induction cooktop loaner program for county residents. ▪ Require new water heaters and space heating and cooling systems to be electric or have no nitrogen oxide emissions in accordance with Bay Area Air Quality Management District Regulation 9, Rule 4, and Regulation 9, Rule 6. (COS-P14.10) ▪ Design and construct new County facilities to be zero-net energy to the extent feasible. (COS-P14.8) ▪ Study the feasibility of establishing a low-carbon concrete requirement for all new construction and retrofit activities and consider additional strategies to reduce embedded carbon in construction materials. The intent is to determine what the County can and should do to support or exceed State requirements for net-zero emissions for cement use by 2045. (HS-A3.2) ▪ Provide educational materials to encourage project applicants to incorporate passive solar design features into new developments and significant reconstructionsalterations and additions. ▪ Promote additional sustainable building strategies and designs, including small and “tiny” homes, to project applicants as site appropriate. ▪ Consider requiring additional sustainable features as a condition of approval, including reuse of materials to minimize embedded carbon. ▪ Provide educational and technical resources to advance the adoption of heat pump water heater and heat pump space heating in buildings in support of BAAQMD Regulation 9, Rule 4, and Regulation 9, Rule 6, which will mandate that replacement and new water heaters (2027 and 2031) and space heaters (2029) are zero NOx. (COS- P14.10) The new Contra Costa County Administration Building, part of the first government project in the world to receive TRUE pre- certification. Photo credit: Contra Costa County staff. Chapter 4 80 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 BE-2: Retrofit existing buildings and facilities in the unincorporated county, and County infrastructure, to reduce energy use and convert to low-carbon or carbon-neutral free fuels. With implementation of this strategy, the existing built environment in unincorporated Contra Costa County will include more carbon-neutral and low- carbon buildings through all-electric upgrades, energy efficiency, and weatherization retrofits, and upgrades to existing buildings, including County-owned and operated buildings and facilities. In March 2023, BAAQMD adopted a regulation to require existing natural-gas-powered space heaters and water heaters be replaced with electrical models when the natural-gas- powered units reach the end of their operational life. This regulation will take effect in 2027 to 2031 for water heaters (depending on the capacity of the unit) and in 2029 for space heaters. This regulation accelerates the transition of natural gas appliances to electric appliances in existing homes and non-residential buildings, resulting in a higher adoption rate of these technologies. Depending on the specific type of equipment, 70 to 90 percent of space heaters and water heaters should be electric by 2045 due to the BAAQMD regulations and local efforts. 2030 2045 GHG emissions reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 55,99081,140 177,830156,150 Strategy BE-2 Co-benefits: Cost savings Improved air quality Improved community equity Improved public health Increased economic opportunities Reduced resource use Approximately 56 percent of the county’s housing stock was constructed prior to 1980, around the time when modern building codes were first adopted (this includes the 19 cities). Within the unincorporated county, approximately 74 percent of housing stock was constructed prior to 1980. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 81 Strategy BE-2 Actions: ▪ Create a County policy or program to facilitate making existing residential and nonresidential buildings more energy-efficient and powered by carbon-free energy. (COS-A14.6) ▪ Create a detailed County roadmap to convert existing homes and businesses to use low- carbon or carbon-free appliances. The roadmap should include steps to support converting buildings to rely on low-carbon or carbon-free energy using an equitable framework that minimizes the risk of displacement or significant disruptions to existing tenants. (COS-A14.7) ▪ Require replacement and new water heaters and space heating and cooling systems to be electric or have no nitrogen oxide emissions electric if the building electric panel has sufficient capacity in accordance with BAAQMD Regulation 9, Rule 4, and Regulation 9, Rule 6. (COS-P14.10) ▪ Provide educational and technical resources to advance the adoption of heat pump water heater and heat pump space heating in new buildings. ▪ Evaluate options for incentivizing and requiring additions and alterations to be energy efficient and to achieve the lowest feasible levels of GHG emissions, including upgrades to the building electric panel as needed. (COS-A14.8) ▪ Ensure County-led and supported retrofit programs incentivize and prioritize conversion of buildings built before 1980 and emphasize assistance to owners of properties that are home to very low-, low-, and moderate- income residents or located in Impacted Communities, as permitted by available funding. (COS-A14.9) ▪ Explore opportunities, in collaboration with partner agencies, to create new incentives or publicize existing ones to support updating existing buildings to achieve the lowest feasible levels of GHG emissions. ▪ Partner with community groups and MCE to establish an induction cooktop education loaner program for county residents. (Initiated in 2024.) CookSmart In 2024, the County implemented the BayREN CookSmart pilot program, in partnership with Sustainable Contra Costa. This program provides electric induction cooktops and up to three pieces of induction-compatible cookware to up to 100 County residents, with an emphasis on residents living in Impacted Communities. Chapter 4 82 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 ▪ Work to continue to obtain funding with partners such as BayREN and MCE to implement a program or programs to provide reduced-cost or free energy- efficiency and zero-carbon retrofits to local small businesses and households earning less than the area median income, in support of the Contra Costa County Asthma Initiative, Contra Costa County Weatherization Program, similar County programs, other nonprofit partners, and other health equity efforts for Impacted Communities. Support the use of low- emitting materials, including paints and carpeting, in retrofits to improve indoor air quality. ▪ In partnership with MCE and BayREN, continue to support voluntary home and business energy efficiency retrofits, including all-electric measures. ▪ Facilitate participation by homes and businesses in demand response programs. ▪ Continue to conduct energy and water tracking activities, audits, and upgrades of County facilities, including conversion of feasible County facilities to all-electric space and water heating. ▪ Advocate for modifications to the federal Weatherization Assistance Program that expand eligible measures to include whole building clean energy improvements, such as wall insulation, duct sealing, electric panel upgrades, electric heat pumps, and related measures. Advocate for an increase in the income eligibility limits for the Weatherization Assistance Program. Cool roofs and pavement Cool roofs and pavements help to reduce the amount of sunlight absorbed by these materials, helping to bring down the temperature in buildings and developed areas. Both cool roofs and pavements reflect most sunlight, rather than absorbing it, and efficiently emit the solar energy that they do absorb. In the California Building Standards Code, these materials are formally defined by their level of thermal emittance and solar reflectance. BayREN The Bay Area Regional Energy Network (BayREN) is a partnership between communities in the nine-county Bay Area region, including Contra Costa County, which supports energy efficiency, water efficiency, and GHG emissions reduction. BayREN provides financial and technical assistance to property owners, businesses, and local governments to reduce their resource use and GHG emissions. This work includes providing rebates and other incentives for energy efficiency retrofits and the installation of energy-efficient appliances. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 83 ▪ Implement requirements for cool roofs and light-colored, non-reflective, permeable paving materials as part of retrofit, repair, and replacement activities, using recycled materials or other materials with low embedded carbon as feasible and as established by the Building Standards Code. BE-3: Increase the amount of electricity used and generated from renewable sources in the county. This strategy seeks to accelerate the replacement of electricity from fossil fuels with electricity from renewable and other carbon-free sources. Actions include increased local renewable energy generation, support for MCE clean energy programs, including Deep Green and Local Sol tiers, and improved energy independence and resilience through battery storage systems9 for renewable electricity. This builds on the 2018 Renewable Resource Potential Study, which describes the opportunities to generate renewable energy in Contra Costa County, on rooftops, parking lots, and other spaces within the urban limit line, and in certain areas outside the urban limit line. 9 The County recommends the installation of small battery energy storage systems because of their energy resilience benefits. Although these systems can help to increase use of carbon-free energy, reputable methods for quantifying energy use and GHG reduction benefits at the building level from use of battery storage are not available at this time. Examples of ground-mounted and rooftop solar arrays. Multifamily buildings can be constructed with solar energy and battery storage systems. This reduces the amount of GHGs from the electricity needed to power the building and increases resilience to power outages. Photo credit: Contra Costa County staff Chapter 4 84 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 As all electricity sources in California are expected to be carbon-free by 2045, reducing electricity use or increasing renewable energy supplies in 2045 do not result in GHG reductions beyond those quantified under the State’s RPS program (discussed earlier in this chapter), although they continue to provide cost-saving and resilience benefits. 2030 2045 GHG emissions reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 10,8320 0 Strategy BE-3 Co-benefits: Greater energy independence Improved air quality Improved community equity Improved public health Increased economic opportunities MCE Levels of Service MCE provides three tiers of electricity service: Light Green 60% Renewable Energy, Deep Green 100% Renewable Energy, and 100% Locally Produced Solar Energy. Approximately 98 93 percent of MCE accounts participate in the Light Green tier, 27 percent participate in Deep Green, and less than 1 percent participate in Local Solar. On March 24, 2020, the County Board of Supervisors voted to go Deep Green 100% renewable with MCE for most the County’s accounts. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 85 Strategy BE-3 Actions: ▪ Require new commercial parking lots with 50 or more spaces to mitigate heat gain through installation of shade trees, solar arrays, or other emerging cooling technologies. Prioritize the use of solar arrays where feasible and appropriate. (HS-P8.3) ▪ Encourage property owners to pursue financial incentives for solar energy installations and energy storage technologies, such as battery storage systems, on new and existing buildings. ▪ Work with MCE to increase enrollment, especially in the Deep Green tier. ▪ Continue to enroll all eligible, non-solar-equipped County facility electricity accounts in MCE territory in the Deep Green tier. ▪ Work with the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District and other organizations that provide fire protection services to provide education and promote incentives for battery storage systems that can increase the resilience of homes and businesses to power outages. ▪ Encourage installation of battery storage systems in new and existing buildings, especially buildings with solar energy systems and buildings that provide essential community services. (COS-P14.7) ▪ Provide information about battery storage systems with all applications for new home construction and solar panel installations. ▪ Pursue implementation of recommendations of the 2018 Renewable Resource Potential Study. ▪ Evaluate the least-conflict feasible locations for stand-alone battery storage systems and modify land use regulations to enable such use in these locations. ▪ Explore the technical and economic feasibility of developing and operating microgrids in Contra Costa County and for County facilities. ▪ Explore opportunities to install community solar projects with battery backup to provide clean energy to Impacted Communities. Renewable energy in Contra Costa County In 2023, the County issued 1,700 permits for residential and commercial solar projects, totaling approximately 68,500 kilowatts (kW) of capacity, capable of generating enough electricity to meet the needs of over 23,000 houses. The County has installed 7,300 kW of rooftop and parking lot solar projects. The County also issued 110 permits for residential battery energy storage projects. Chapter 4 86 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 NO WASTE CONTRA COSTA (NW) CONTRA COSTA COUNTY DISPOSES OF NO MORE SOLID WASTE THAN 2.2 POUNDS PER PERSON PER DAY (PPD).10 Waste reduction, reuse, recycling, and composting strategies reduce emissions by reducing the amount of material that decomposes in a landfill. These actions also encourage community-wide creativity, collaboration, and conservation as residents and business owners are inspired to share skills and develop innovative ways to reduce resource use. Communities across California are already reducing their use of single-use plastics and expanding community compost efforts in accordance with AB 1276 and SB 1383. Contra Costa County is poised to make further strides in waste management by increasing composting of organic waste, expanding recycling efforts, encouraging the reuse of materials, and reducing the amount of waste arising through County operations. Efforts to divert waste away from landfills and into composting and recycling programs reduce emissions and help make valuable recycled materials available to the broader community. Expansion of the County’s recycling and composting programs helps ensure that residents not only know how to properly manage their waste, but also have a convenient and affordable way to do so. The 2024 CAP2024 CAAP also looks upstream, identifying strategies for reducing emissions from waste by reducing the amount of waste that results from the purchase of goods used in County operations. 10 The pounds per person per day (PPD) metric refers to the average amount of solid waste that each person that lives in the unincorporated county disposes in landfills each day. This does not include material that is recycled or composted. AB 1276 Assembly Bill (AB) 1276, signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom, changes the Public Resource Code related to single- use food accessories and standard condiments. AB 1276 prohibits restaurants and other food providers from providing single-use utensils and standard condiments unless requested by the customer. Local jurisdictions are required to authorize an enforcement agency to enforce these requirements. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 87 The presence of three landfills within the unincorporated county means that, even if the volume of solid waste generated within the unincorporated county declines significantly, GHGs will be released for decades as waste that is already within landfills continues to decompose. The 2024 CAP2024 CAAP addresses this source of emissions by including strategies and actions to promote landfill gas capture, expanded use of landfill gases, and decreases in flaring activity. Three-stream waste management systems with clear instructions about what materials go in each bin, like this, ensure that people are able to properly sort items into the correct bin and divert compostable and recyclable materials from the landfill. Photo credit: Contra Costa County staff. Most of the emissions associated with the solid waste sector are not from waste that community members in the unincorporated county are throwing out annually. Instead, 80 to 90 percent of emissions from solid waste are coming from three landfills in the unincorporated county. These landfills accept waste from communities across Northern California. As the waste decomposes over decades, it releases GHG emissions. The County is responsible for permitting activities at these landfills and may affect operations at these activities through its agreements with landfill operators. These landfills are the Acme Landfill outside of Martinez, the Keller Canyon Landfill outside of Pittsburg, and the West Contra Costa Landfill outside of Richmond. Although the West Contra Costa Landfill closed in 2006, the waste that had already been deposited in the landfill continues to decompose and create GHG emissions. Chapter 4 88 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 NW-1: Increase composting of organic waste. With this strategy in place, organic waste will be diverted from landfills to composting or other opportunities for reuse in accordance with SB 1383 and other applicable requirements. This includes establishing organic waste collection programs for all franchise waste customers in the unincorporated areas of the county, encouraging and supporting wastewater agencies to accept food waste or other acceptable organic materials for processing in on-site anaerobic digesters, and allowing for creative opportunities to reuse or reprocess organic waste material. 2030 2045 GHG emissions reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 2,240 4,000 Strategy NW-1 Co-benefits: Increased economic opportunities Increased resilience to pests Reduced landfill waste Reduced resource use Strategy NW-1 Actions: ▪ Ensure, through franchise agreements and other relationships with waste haulers, a source-separated organics collection service for all residential and commercial customers in County-controlled collection franchise areas. ▪ Require that new and expanded landfill operations significantly reduce GHG emissions to meet or exceed State targets to the extent feasible, and work toward carbon-neutral landfills. (PFS-P7.12) ▪ Work with wastewater providers to explore the use of organic waste as feedstock for anaerobic digesters to produce biogas that can generate electricity or fuel. ▪ Require local restaurants, grocery stores, and other edible food generators that handle large quantities of food to partner with food rescue organizations to divert edible food that would be otherwise disposed in landfills for distribution to those in need, in accordance with SB 1383. ▪ Collaborate with edible food recovery programs and the Community Wellness & Prevention Program to decrease food waste and address hunger. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 89 ▪ Procure compost or other products made from recovered organic waste in accordance with the County’s Recovered Organic Waste Product and Recycled Paper Procurement Policy. NW-2: Reduce waste from County operations. This strategy reduces waste generated through County operations and the activities of outside organizations with which the County contracts for specific goods and services. Efforts to achieve waste reductions include updating and implementing the County’s environmentally preferable purchasing policy, ensuring all County facilities have and use organic waste and recycling collection services, and requiring the use of low-carbon content building and paving materials for all County projects as feasible. 2030 2045 GHG emissions reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 1,090 1,620 Strategy NW-2 Co-Benefits: Increased economic opportunities Increased resilience to pests Reduced resource use Strategy NW-2 Actions: ▪ Establish Continuea source-separated organics collection service at all County-owned facilities that includes recovering food waste (scraps) and food-soiled paper. ▪ Implement three-stream recycling (trash, recycling, and organic waste) at all County- owned facilities. Environmentally Preferable Purchasing The County’s Environmentally Preferable Purchasing (EPP) Policy was updated and approved by the Board of Supervisors in September 2023. The new policy updates the County’s 2008 EPP and includes purchasing requirements to minimize environmental impacts, reduce GHG emissions, and advance the goals of the CAAP. Chapter 4 90 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 ▪ Establish requirements for source-separated organics collection and three-stream recycling as conditions in lease agreements for County offices. ▪ Conduct waste audits of County facilities, including assessing the volume and composition of all waste streams, to identify challenges with waste activities and develop educational or operational changes to address issues and reduce waste generation. ▪ Obtain material for capital projects from local and low-carbon sources to the greatest extent feasible, including allocating additional funds to allow for such materials, and integrate appropriate standards into the County’s Environmentally Preferable Purchasing (EPP) policy. ▪ Continue to reduce paper use in County operations. Procure recycled paper and janitorial supplies in accordance with the Recovered Organic Waste Product and Recycled Paper Procurement Policy. ▪ Continue engagement with TRUE zero waste certification for County projects. ▪ Enact Bay-friendly landscaping practices at County facilities. Develop County policies and practices for Bay-friendly landscaping. ▪ Explore opportunities to reuse wood from County tree maintenance activities as an alternative to chipping. ▪ Encourage medical facilities and medical waste recycling companies to upgrade facilities to increase the amount of medical waste recycled or reprocessed. ▪ Explore the feasibility of transitioning to reusable products in the health sector, where appropriate, and procuring products certified as green or low carbon. TRUE Certification TRUE certification is a certification program for facilities and their operations that assesses how well the facility is reducing the amount of waste it produces. The certification requirements include at least a 90 percent diversion rate, compliance with applicable laws and permits, and regular reporting on waste statistics. The new County Administration Building B at 1026 Escobar Street, Martinez, was the first project in the world to receive TRUE certification. Bay Friendly Landscaping Bay Friendly Landscaping is a set of best practices for landscaping to minimize impacts to the San Francisco Bay and its watershed. These practices include reducing stormwater runoff, providing wildlife habitat, and reducing fertilizer use. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 91 NW-3: Increase community-wide recycling and waste minimization programs. Under this strategy, the amount of waste sent to landfills from community members is reduced through extensive diversion and waste minimization programs. The County explores and implements all feasible opportunities to minimize landfill waste, including through recycling of additional materials, prohibitions or limitations on materials that cannot be recycled/composted, education around conscious consumption, and opportunities to divert waste materials for reuse. 2030 2045 GHG emissions reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 520 2,530 Strategy NW-3 Co-benefits: Increased economic opportunities Increased resilience to pests Reduced resource use Strategy NW-3 Actions: ▪ Create a source-reduction program in partnership with regional agencies to promote rethinking, refusing, reducing, reusing, and regenerating of materials. ▪ Improve educational efforts to promote better waste sorting among community members. ▪ Work with waste haulers to expand the types of materials accepted by recycling programs as economic conditions allow. The Five Rs Recycling and composting are critical steps to decreasing the amount of waste that the County sends to a landfill. However, recycling and composting still should be treated as a last resort. Prior to sending something to a recycling or composting center (or landfill if no alternative exists), community members should try to reduce the amount of waste produced in the first place, by following the five Rs: Rethink whether it is necessary to buy something. Refuse to buy something that produces excess waste. Reduce the amount of waste generated. Reuse items that would otherwise be treated as waste. Regenerate waste products into something useful often through recycling. Chapter 4 92 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 ▪ Work with waste haulers to continue availability of curbside pickup recycling services. ▪ Evaluate the feasibility of banning single-use plastics or establishing additional restrictions beyond those created by SB 54. ▪ Encourage the use of reusable items over disposable materials. ▪ Promote the Contra Costa County Recycling Market Development Zone low-interest loan program to create incentivizes for the development of businesses that use recycled materials. NW-4: Reduce emissions from landfill gas. After it is deposited in landfills, waste gradually decomposes and releases landfill gas. Landfill gas contains both carbon dioxide and methane, making this gas a potent contributor to GHG emissions and regional air pollutants. Most, but not all, of this gas is captured and used to generate energy, produce fuels, or flared. The gas that is not captured escapes into the atmosphere, adding to the county’s GHG emissions. Increasing the percentage of captured landfill gas both helps the County meet its GHG emissions reduction goals and improve local air quality. Strategy NW-4 improves the landfill gas capture rate, increases opportunities to use landfill gas as an alternative energy source, and reduces the rate of flaring of landfill gas. 2030 2045 GHG emissions reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 57,460 61,410 Strategy NW-4 Co-benefits: Greater energy independence Improved air quality Strategy NW-4 Actions: ▪ Encourage efforts at Acme, Keller Canyon, and West Contra Costa landfills to install or enhance existing methane capture technology and associated monitoring systems with a goal of increasing the methane capture rate to the greatest extent feasible. ▪ Explore opportunities for partnering with agricultural and industrial operations to generate energy from methane gas generated by their ongoing activities. ▪ Support landfill operators in efforts to transition away from landfill gas flaring. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 93 REDUCE WATER USE AND INCREASE DROUGHT RESILIENCE (DR) CONTRA COSTA COUNTY USES LESS WATER AND COMMUNITIES ARE PREPARED FOR DROUGHT. Communities can reduce water use and protect themselves from the effects of drought through implementation of strategies to increase indoor water use efficiency and reduce outdoor water use. Increasing water use efficiency and decreasing outdoor water use reduce GHGs by reducing the amount of energy needed to process, heat, and deliver water. In addition to saving energy, water conservation and efficiency helps protect one of California’s most precious resources and helps the county become more resilient to drought and water shortage. In addition, reducing water use in individual homes and businesses can reduce utility costs. Contra Costa County possesses both surface and groundwater resources. In California, groundwater quality and sustainability are ensured through the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA). The SGMA establishes a local management structure for groundwater, led by Groundwater Sustainability Agencies (GSAs). GSAs are responsible for authoring and implementing the local Groundwater Sustainability Plan. GSAs active in Contra Costa County include the City of Antioch GSA, City of Brentwood GSA, Byron- Bethany Irrigation District GSA, Contra Costa County GSA, Diablo Water District GSA, Discovery Bay GSA, East Contra Costa Irrigation District GSA, East Bay Municipal Utilities District GSA, and Zone 7 GSA. The California Department of Water Resources approved the East Contra Costa Subbasin Groundwater Sustainability Plan in July 2023. The Groundwater Sustainability Plan goals are consistent and complementary with the County’s CAAP and focus on groundwater management strategies that protect and maintain safe and reliable groundwater sources in the face of climate change. Chapter 4 94 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Drought-tolerant landscapes and native plants have lower water demands than other plant species. Photo credit: Envision Contra Costa picture gallery. DR-1: Reduce indoor and outdoor water use. This strategy reduces water use in communities and at County facilities. This includes efforts to promote water conservation; increase the acreage of native and drought-tolerant plantslandscaping; encourage graywater/rainwater catchment systems and supportive infrastructure; and provide incentives to reduce water use as appropriate. 2030 2045 GHG emissions reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 970 1,440 Strategy DR-1 Co-benefits: Cost savings Increased resilience to pests Reduced resource use Strategy DR-1 Actions: ▪ Require new development to reduce potable water consumption through use of water- efficient devices and technology, drought-tolerant landscaping strategies, and treated recycled water, where available. (COS-P7.16) ▪ Require homes and businesses to install water-efficient fixtures at time of retrofit activities, in accordance with the California Building Standards Code. The average Contra Costa resident uses 126 gallons of water per day. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 95 ▪ Continue to enforce the Model Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance and encourage the use of native and drought-tolerant landscaping for exempt residential and commercial landscapes through partnership with local and regional water agencies and other organizations. ▪ Partner with water and wastewater service providers, Groundwater Sustainability Agencies, irrigation districts, and private well owners to increase participation in water conservation programs countywide. (COS-P7.21) ▪ Facilitate offering of BayREN water bill savings programs through eligible community water providers. ▪ Encourage the installation of graywater and rainwater catchment systems, particularly for new construction, as feasible for wastewater infrastructure. Reduce regulatory barriers for these systems and explore creating incentives for installing these systems in new and existing buildings. ▪ Identify Evaluate opportunities for graywater use in public spaces and implement them as feasible. ▪ Promote the installation of composting toilets at appropriate County facilities in locations without wastewater service. DR-2: Ensure sustainable and diverse water supplies. This strategy supports efforts to diversify the sources of Contra Costa County’s water supplies and ensure that water supplies are viable for the long-term. This is a supportive policy that does not create its own GHG emission reductions. Strategy DR-2 Co-benefits: Greater community resilience Reduced resource use Strategy DR-2 Actions: ▪ Encourage Contra Costa Health to work with Groundwater Sustainability Agencies to ensure that new well permit applications are in accordance with County ordinances and State construction standards and require a hydrogeological evaluation in areas with known water shortages to ensure that the sustainable yield goals can be met. Chapter 4 96 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 ▪ Require new development to demonstrate the availability of a safe, sanitary, and environmentally sound water delivery and wastewater treatment systems with adequate capacity. (PFS-P4.5, PFS-P4.6) ▪ Discourage new development that may reasonably lead to groundwater overdraft, subsidence, or other negative impacts, or which may reasonably depend on the import of unsustainable quantities of water from outside the county. ▪ Require the use of permeable surfaces for new or reconstructed hardscaped areas where feasible. ▪ In coordination with Groundwater Sustainability Agencies, expand opportunities for groundwater recharge. ▪ Work with water suppliers to expand recycled water systems as feasible, including considering additional treatment to allow for additional recycled water uses. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 97 CLEAN TRANSPORTATION NETWORK (TR) CONTRA COSTA COUNTY’S TRANSPORTATION NETWORK PROVIDES SAFE AND ACCESSIBLE OPTIONS FOR WALKING, BIKING, AND TRANSIT. IF RESIDENTS AND WORKERS ARE DRIVING, THEY ARE IN ZERO-EMISSION VEHICLES. Transportation is an integral part of living life and conducting business for nearly all members of the Contra Costa County community. The range of transportation options that the County invests in and that are useful for the public has profound impacts on GHG emissions, local environmental quality, public safety, and overall quality of life. Private vehicle travel is convenient, but releases significant volumes of GHGs, increases the maintenance demand on roads, creates toxic particulates through tire wear and brake dust, increases congestion, requires significant personal investment, hinders active modes of transportation, and is a significant source of death and injury. Increasing the safe, affordable, accessible, active, and reliable transportation options available to communities makes it easier for all residents to participate in public life and gives all community members the freedom to choose transportation modes that promote health, reduce fuel costs and time lost in traffic, and help the County meet its GHG emissions reduction goals. The 2024 CAP2024 CAAP diversifies the County’s transportation landscape by recommending investments in active transportation, micromobility, public transit, complete streets, and roadway safety and ensuring that employers offer alternative commuting options for their employees. The County is committed to enhancing active transportation by promoting access and connectivity for all modes of travel besides automobile travel. Active transportation encompasses any self-propelled, human-powered travel, such as walking and bicycling. The County’s Active Transportation Plan14 serves as a roadmap to enhance active transportation safety and mode share for unincorporated areas in Contra Costa County by providing a comprehensive look at the County’s active transportation needs and Micromobility is a category of affordable, lightweight transportation ideal for trips of five miles or less and designed for individual use. Micromobility devices can be personally owned bicycles, e-bikes, electric scooters and electric skateboards, or shared bikes, e-bikes, and e-scooters. - Contra Costa 511.org Chapter 4 98 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 opportunities. The plan outlines investments in new bicycle facilities, upgraded crossings, enhanced trail connections, and improved walkways. While the County works to have a wide suite of transportation options available, passenger and commercial automobile use will continue to be a large part of Contra Costa County’s transportation mix. However, different fuels have different levels of carbon intensity. Gasoline and diesel-fueled vehicles, in particular, release more carbon dioxide into the atmosphere than vehicles that use electricity or hydrogen fuels, even when accounting for how the electricity or hydrogen is generated. Increasing use of cleaner transportation fuels will be a key to help reduce the County’s transportation emissions. Ensuring that cleaner fuels are affordable, accessible, and easy to use means helping communities address the up-front costs of acquiring an electric or other clean-fuel vehicle and ensuring that refueling infrastructure, such as EV charging stations, is equitably distributed throughout and across communities. Additionally, the County aims to increase the use of clean fuels in its own vehicle fleet and promote the use of clean fuels among transportation providers such as taxis and ridesharing programs. County Employees on Bike to Work Day: Karin Deas (left), John Steere and Joe Lawlor (right). Photo credit: Contra Costa County staff. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 99 TR-1: Improve the viability of walking, biking, zero-emission commuting, and using public transit for travel within, to, and from the county. This strategy, in coordination with the General Plan’s policies and actions, reduces vehicle miles traveled (VMT) in Contra Costa County by making it easier for people to bike, walk, roll, and take public transit. This strategy incorporates the County’s commitments to implement the Contra Costa Active Transportation Plan, Complete Streets Policy, Vision Zero Action Plan, and other County policies to facilitate location of new development to minimize car dependency. Contra Costa County’s Complete Streets Policy was adopted in 2016. This policy promotes rethinking street design to ensure that streets adequately serve all users and are sensitive to local traffic conditions. All departments and agencies of Contra Costa County are required to work towards making Complete Streets practices a routine part of everyday operations and are considered for all development projects. Adopted in March 2022, the County’s Active Transportation Plan serves as a roadmap to enhance active transportation safety and mode share for unincorporated Contra Costa County by providing a comprehensive look at the county’s active transportation needs and opportunities. The plan outlines investments in new bicycle facilities, upgraded crossings, enhanced trail connections, and improved walkways. In March 2022, the County also adopted the Action Plan from the Vision Zero Final Report.15 Created by the Public Works Department, this plan commits the County to the Vision Zero goal of reducing vehicle collisions by promoting safe vehicles, safe speeds, safe roads, and post-crash care. Active Transportation Plan The Active Transportation Plan aims to: • Prioritize active transportation investments based on factors such as collision history or systemic risk, location in an impacted community, location near key destinations, and funding opportunities. • Shift trip modes by Contra Costa County residents and visitors from motor vehicles to active modes such as walking and biking. • Provide a vision for arterials and collector streets within the unincorporated county roadway network to assist County departments in planning for private development, capital projects, and maintenance efforts. Chapter 4 100 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 The County also supports legislation that enhances accessibility to quality transit, protects vulnerable road users, increases transit service, ensures transit is safe and affordable, and identifies strategies and funding to implement recommendations in the 2019 Employee Commute Survey for County employees. 2030 2045 GHG emissions reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 17,050 40,370 Strategy TR-1 Co-benefits: Cost savings Greater community resilience Improved air quality Improved community equity Improved public health Reduced resource use Strategy TR-1 Actions: ▪ Prioritize expansion of bicycle, micromobility, and pedestrian infrastructure (e.g., Class IV separated bikeways) to address the significant latent demand for these active transportation modes. (TR-P1.2) ▪ Develop and promote mobility alternatives to single-occupancy vehicles, including but not limited to public transit, micromobility, carbon-free rideshare strategies, and nonmotorized modes. (TR-A1.1) ▪ Implement programs to encourage transit use, bicycling, walking, telecommuting, and use of alternative vehicle fuels by County employees. (TR-A1.4) ▪ Reduce single-occupant vehicle usage and VMT, by significantly enhancing the availability and safety of other travel modes through infrastructure investment, policy support (Vision Zero, and other best practices), and support for public transit. (TR-P1.4) ▪ Plan, design, construct, and maintain facilities for walking, bicycling, and rolling to serve people of all ages, abilities, and income levels, including children, seniors, families, and people with limited mobility. (TR-P5.1) 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 101 ▪ Partner with CCTA and neighboring jurisdictions to build out the countywide bicycle and pedestrian network, prioritizing completion of the Low-Stress Countywide Bicycle Network and pedestrian safety improvement projects in the County’s Pedestrian Priority Areas, as described in the Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan. (TR-A5.1) ▪ Construct innovative bicycle and pedestrian facilities, including Class IV separated and protected bikeways, bicycle superhighways, and other low-stress facility types, as described in the Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan and in contemporary, best-practice transportation planning and engineering guidance. Use contextually appropriate green infrastructure and landscaping to separate vehicular lanes from bicycle and pedestrian facilities whenever feasible. (TR-A5.2) ▪ Require transportation infrastructure serving new development to be designed using best practices, contemplating existing and planned land uses, roadways, bicycle and pedestrian facilities, transit facilities, and connections to adjoining areas. (TR-P4.2) ▪ Create connections between unincorporated communities and neighborhoods in unincorporated areas and adjacent jurisdictions to improve multimodal access to local destinations, such as schools, parks, shopping, health services, and workplaces. (TR-P4.3) ▪ Maintain in place and enforce a Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Ordinance that reflects best practices and, at a minimum, conforms to Contra Costa Transportation Authority’s adopted model TDM ordinance or resolution. (GM-P3.5) ▪ Track over time projects that add pedestrian and bicycle facilities to document the County’s implementation of the County Road Improvement and Preservation Program (CRIPP); Complete Streets checklist; Vision Zero Report and Action Plan; Active Transportation Plan; and equity-focused plans, programs, and policies. ▪ Improve the safety and comfort of bicycle, pedestrian, and public transit facilities using best practices to encourage more people to use such facilities. Healthy Building, Healthy Communities Program In 2023, the Contra Costa Healthy Building Healthy Communities Program won two grants totaling over $1.7 million to promote active transportation and advance equity in bicycle and pedestrian roadway safety. These grants included a four-year $1.5 million grant to provide Safe Routes to School programming at up to 90 schools countywide; and a one-year $200,000 grant to advance Vision Zero, build community capacity to promote bicycle and pedestrian safety, and disseminate bicycle and pedestrian safety campaigns. Chapter 4 102 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 ▪ Work with CCTA to fill gaps in the countywide Low-Stress Bike Network, as outlined in the 2018 Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan. Prioritize providing access for Impacted Communities and constructing protected bicycle facilities Coordinate with Caltrans, CCTA, the Regional Transportation Planning Committees, and neighboring jurisdictions to plan, design, and implement Complete Streets concepts on Routes of Regional Significance. ▪ In collaboration with key partners, support efforts to establish or join a shared mobility program that provides access to conventional bicycles, e-bikes, and other micromobility modes, prioritizing access for low-income residents who do not have bicycles. Support efforts to establish and/or maintain bike repair programs. ▪ Support efforts to expand the service area and frequency of regional transit agencies, and reduced fares for students, seniors, and low-income residents on systems, including AC Transit, BART, Capitol Corridor, County Connection, Tri Delta Transit, the San Francisco Bay Ferry, and WestCAT. Encourage programs that support “last mile” transportation connection and options. ▪ Maximize development of jobs and affordable housing near high-quality transit service to support a jobs-housing balance. ▪ Market the county’s Northern Waterfront to attract innovative companies with jobs for residents. ▪ Improve county-wide safety for cyclists by advocating for the passage of Vulnerable Road User Laws. ▪ Secure additional funding for the maintenance and expansion of bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure improvements. Support efforts to obtain additional funding to maintain and expand public transit operations and infrastructure improvements. ▪ Support CCTA to develop and implement methods for tracking EV and e-bike charging and availability across jurisdictions. ▪ Support CCTA and regional transit agencies in providing “last mile” transportation connections and options. ▪ Encourage and support increased regional integration of transit systems to promote more equitable fare structures, fare integration, easier transfers, including Contra Costa Centre Overcrossing. Photo credit: Contra Costa County 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 103 coordinated transfers between different transit systems and reduced wait times, improved information sharing, and generally a more seamless and modern system. ▪ Ensure emerging transportation technologies and travel options, such as autonomous and ZEVs and transportation network companies, support the County’s goals for reducing emissions, adapting to climate change, improving public safety, and increasing equitable mobility. (TR-P1.3) TR-2: Increase the use of zero-emission vehicles. Transition to a zero- emission County fleet by 2035 and a community fleet that is at least 50 percent zero-emission by 2030. Implementation of this strategy will help increase the share of zero-emission vehicles on the road. The County will encourage all residents and businesses (including heavy-duty vehicle operators) to transition to zero-emission vehicles, enforce the County vehicle purchasing policy, promote electric vehicle sharing services, and ensure adequate electric vehicle charging and other zero-emission fueling infrastructure in new and existing development. The State projects that 86 percent of light-duty vehicles and over 70 percent of heavy-duty vehicles will be zero emission by 2045, based on modeling in the State’s 2022 Scoping Plan. 2030 2045 GHG emissions reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 148,000 343,89032,850 There are approximately 33,850 zero-emission or plug-in hybrid vehicles registered in Contra Costa County, or about 3.9 percent of all light-duty vehicles, as of the end of 2021. Statewide, about 2.9 percent of light-duty vehicles are zero- emission or plug-in hybrid. However, this number is growing rapidly. In the first half of 2022, approximately 22.7 percent of light-duty vehicle sales in Contra Costa County were zero-emission or plug-in hybrid, higher than all but five counties in California. Approximately 84 percent of vehicles in Contra Costa County are projected to be electric by 2045. Chapter 4 104 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Strategy TR-2 Co-benefits: Cost savings Improved air quality Improved community equity Improved public health Reduced resource use Advanced Clean Car Standards California has a set of regulations adopted in recent years to encourage the transition to zero- emission vehicles. The Innovative Clean Transit regulation, first adopted in 2018, requires that all new buses purchased by transit agencies in California must be zero-emission by 2029. There are earlier milestones for zero-emission bus purchases depending on the size of the agency. The regulation also requires that transit agencies plan to fully transition to zero-emission buses by 2040. The Advanced Clean Trucks regulation, adopted in 2020, requires an increase in the number of new zero-emission medium- and heavy-duty vehicles sold in California. This regulation covers freight trucks, delivery vans, large pickup trucks, and other large vehicles. The targets vary by vehicle type, but the State expects that 63 percent of new trucks will be zero-emission by 2035. The Advanced Clean Car II standards, adopted in 2022, requires that all new passenger cars, trucks, and SUVs sold in California be zero-emission by 2035. Beginning in 2026, 35 percent of new passenger vehicles sold in the state must be zero-emission. The Advanced Clean Fleets regulation, adopted in 2023, applies to government and large private vehicle fleets. It requires that most vehicle types sold to fleet operators be zero- emission. For local governments such as Contra Costa County, at least 50 percent of new vehicle purchases must be zero-emission starting in 2024, increasing to 100 percent in 2027. There are exemptions for some types of vehicles, including emergency vehicles. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 105 Strategy TR-2 Actions: ▪ Require new County vehicles to be zero-emission to the extent a viable vehicle is available on the market, that charging or zero-emission fueling equipment is conveniently located where the vehicle will be stored, and as required by the Advanced Clean Fleet regulations, with the goal that all County vehicles will be zero-emission by 2035. ▪ Continue adopting new or modified reach codes and consider future updates that exceed the California Building Standards Code as the State updates the Building Code, including the Green Building Code, to require zero-emission charging infrastructure in new multifamily and nonresidential buildings. Explore expanding it to include new single-family homes. (Supported by TR-P1.12 and TR-A.12) ▪ Install electric vehicle charging equipment and other infrastructure needed to support the transition to a zero-emission County fleet at County facilities. Consider the appropriate locations, number, and capacity of infrastructure to facilitate the transition of the County fleet to zero-emission vehicles. ▪ Provide incentives for zero-emission vehicles in partnership with MCE, BAAQMD, and other agencies. ▪ Work with property owners and other potential partners to pursue installation of zero- emission vehicle charging stations in and near multifamily dwelling units. ▪ Update off-street parking ordinance to include a requirement for zero-emission vehicle charging infrastructure. Consider including incentives for developers to exceed minimum requirements (i.e., density bonus). ▪ Increase installation of electric vehicle charging stations for all vehicle types, including bicycles and scooters, at public facilities, emphasizing increased installation in Impacted Communities. ▪ In partnership with regional agencies, explore providing subsidies for households making less than the area median income to purchase or lease zero- emission vehicles and associated infrastructure. ▪ Pursue fees and regulatory efforts to convert transportation network company (TNC), taxi, and similar car-hire services to zero-emission vehicles. ▪ Explore opportunities for implementing electric vehicle sharing programs. On June 1, 2023, the County hosted its first electric vehicle (EV) and E-bike show to educate and empower employees to use EV technology as the County fleet transitions to zero-emission vehicles. Approximately 200 staff from County departments and other public agencies attended to learn about EVs and E-bikes through a showcase that featured a wide range of EVs from public fleets and staff’s personal vehicles. Chapter 4 106 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 ▪ Work with BAAQMD and other regional agencies to convert off-road equipment to zero- emission clean fuels. ▪ Work with contractors, fleet operations, logistics companies, and other operators of heavy-duty vehicles to accelerate the transition to zero-emission heavy-duty vehicles. ▪ In cases where battery-electric, hybrid-electric, and sustainably sourced hydrogen fuel- cell sources are not available, wWork with Public Works to pursue the use of renewable natural gas (sourced from recovered organic waste) for transportation fuel, electricity, or heating applications. in cases where battery-electric, hybrid-electric, and sustainably sourced hydrogen fuel-cell sources are not available. ▪ Encourage efforts to maximize EV charging during solar peak hours. ▪ Continue to host events such as the Electric Vehicle and E-Bike Show to educate and empower County staff and community members about zero-emission vehicles. ▪ Coordinate with CCTA and other local and regional agencies to Support implementation of the Contra Costa County Electric Vehicle Readiness Blueprint and related policies and apply best practices in ZEV charging/fueling infrastructure requirements. (TR-A1.11) Electric vehicles like this one in the County’s fleet help to significantly reduce GHG emissions associated with transportation. Photo credit: Contra Costa County. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 107 RESILIENT COMMUNITIES AND NATURAL INFRASTRUCTURE (NI) CONTRA COSTA COUNTY WILL INCREASE RESILIENCE TO CLIMATE HAZARDS AND FOSTER COMMUNITY HEALTH. Most of the strategies for Resilient Communities and Natural Infrastructure are not associated with GHG emissions savings. NI-4 is included here because it both contributes significantly to the County’s resilience efforts and results in measurable GHG emissions reductions. See Chapter 5 for a detailed description of other strategies that fall under this goal. NI-4: Sequester carbon on natural and working lands in Contra Costa County. This strategy increases opportunities to store carbon through natural carbon sequestration on public and private lands, increased tree planting by the County and public and private partners, and installation of green infrastructure. Additional actions pertaining to tree planting are in strategy NI-5 in Chapter 5. 2030 2045 GHG emissions reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 22,630 88,910 Strategy NI-4 Co-benefits: Enhanced recreation opportunities Greater community resilience Improved air quality Improved public health Increased economic opportunities Increased resilience to pests Chapter 4 108 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Strategy NI-4 Actions: ▪ Pursue implementation of recommendations from the carbon sequestration feasibility study, Healthy Lands, Healthy People. ▪ Continue to support and work with key partners to maintain existing and establish new pilot programs for carbon sequestration on agricultural land. ▪ Promote restorative regenerative agricultural and landscaping techniques that incorporate cover crops, mulching, compost application, field borders, alley cropping, conservation crop rotation, prescribed grazing, and reduced tillage to promote healthy soil and soil conservation. (Supported by COS-P2.11) ▪ Support soil conservation and restoration programs. Encourage agricultural landowners to work with agencies such as the USDA’s NRCS and Contra Costa RCD to reduce erosion and soil loss. (COS-P2.10) ▪ Coordinate with farming groups, ranchers, the Contra Costa Resource Conservation District, and the University of California Cooperative Extension to identify and promote varieties of feedstock, livestock, and crops that are resilient to rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns and that increase carbon sequestration. ▪ Explore ways to increase carbon sequestration on County-owned facilitiesproperties. ▪ Partner with regional landowners and agencies to establish local carbon sequestration programs and incentives. ▪ Consider the development of carbon offset protocols and guidance for future use by carbon sequestration program to provide technical support to applicants and County permitting staff to promote appropriate natural sequestration on natural and developed lands. ▪ Ensure that any local or regional carbon sequestration program that the County establishes, promotes, supports, or joins demonstrates benefits to unincorporated communities that face environmental justice issues. ▪ Explore the potential for the public to support tree planting and maintenance of existing trees. (Supported by COS-P6.2) Healthy Lands, Healthy People Contra Costa County completed a feasibility study in 2023 to explore how agriculture, parks, gardens, and open space in the county could be used to sequester carbon and support carbon neutrality efforts. The study is funded by a grant from the California Department of Conservation. Its findings have informed quantification assumptions for Strategy NI-4. Implementation of the recommendations in this study will inform future updates of this 2024 CAAP. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 109 ▪ Establish a mechanism to support expanded tree planting and maintenance activities, particularly in areas with few trees. ▪ Support protection, restoration, and enhancement of creeks, wetlands, marshes, sloughs, and tidelands, and emphasize the role of these features in climate change resilience, air and water quality, and wildlife habitat. (COS-P5.1) ▪ Inventory wetlands, floodplains, marshlands, natural watercourses, riparian corridors, and adjacent lands that could potentially support climate adaptation (e.g., through flood management, filtration, or other beneficial ecosystem services) and mitigation (e.g., carbon sequestration). (COS-A5.1) ▪ Encourage and support conservation of natural lands outside the urban limit line in the unincorporated county. ▪ Explore the new funding and financing opportunities for climate adaptation and resilience projects, including the creation of a Climate Resilience District, issuance of bonds—including bonds that can be marketed as “green bonds”-- as a potential financing mechanism, and similar opportunities. ▪ Require that any mitigation of air quality impacts occur on-site to the extent feasible to provide the greatest benefit to local residents in unincorporated communities. For mitigation that relies on offsets, require that the offsets be obtained from sources as near to the project site as possible or from sources that would improve air quality in an Impacted Community. If the project site is within or adjacent to an Impacted Community, require offsets or mitigation within that community unless determined infeasible by the County. (HS-P1.6) Climate Resilience Districts Climate resilience districts are special districts that can raise and allocate money to fund projects and operations that address climate change adaptation efforts, such as those to help protect against sea level rise, wildfire, and drought. They have the authority to establish special taxes, assessments, or other charges. Local governments may establish climate resilience districts under Assembly Bill 852, adopted in 2022. Chapter 4 110 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Achieving Our Goals County staff developed a set of 11 GHG emission reduction strategies and assessed the GHG emission reduction potential of these strategies, given the project team’s reasonable understanding of available resources and what seemed appropriate for the unincorporated area. Appendix B provides detailed information about the GHG emission reduction potential of these strategies. These GHG emission reduction potentials are intended to be a starting point. They are based on the best available information, the experience and expertise of County staff, and known resources and capabilities. It is possible to achieve greater reductions if there is more confidence in higher levels of participation or development of additional programs. Table 10 shows the expected GHG emission levels with these strategies enacted, TABLE 10. GHG EMISSIONS WITH 2024 CAAP DRAFT REDUCTION STRATEGIES, 2019 TO 2045 SECTOR 2019 2030 2045 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2019–2045 Transportation 464,040 277,450 60,970 -87% Energy - Residential 191,780 141,720 24,180 -87% Energy - Nonresidential 85,390 71,500 24,540 -71% Solid Waste 220,760 146,270 137,070 -38% Agriculture 36,130 34,770 33,410 -8% Off-road Equipment 54,010 54,150 29,270 -46% Water and Wastewater 4,870 3,610 1,470 -70% BART 190 150 50 -74% Land Use and Sequestration -70,860 -90,210 -147,800 -109% Total Annual MTCO2e 986,310 639,460 163,130 -83% * Note: Due to rounding, totals may not equal the sum of the individual values * Reductions of 83 percent below 2019 levels are comparable to reductions of 85 percent below 1990 levels. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 111 All the strategies discussed in this chapter help Contra Costa County reduce its GHG emissions and allow the County to achieve its GHG reduction goals. Different strategies, along with existing and planned efforts, contribute to the GHG reductions in each of the different sectors as projected in 2045: ▪ Transportation: The largest share of GHG reductions from transportation-related emissions comes from a significant increase in adoption of electric vehicle and other zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) technologies, as discussed in Strategy TR-2. The State’s Clean Car Standards, establishing stricter vehicle fuel efficiency standards and ZEV adoption requirements, accounts for approximately 39 percent of these reductions. Strategy TR-1, which reduces VMT through increases in transit use, active transportation, and micromobility, accounts for the remaining 7 percent of GHG reductions in transportation energy use. ▪ Residential energy: More than half of GHG reductions in residential energy use comes from energy efficiency and electrification of existing homes, as discussed in Strategy BE- 2, and another 24 percent comes from the State’s program to partially meet natural gas needs from renewable sources. The State’s increase in the Title 24 energy efficiency standards for new buildings and RPS program to convert all electricity to renewable or carbon-free sources each contribute about 10 percent of the GHG reductions in this sector. Smaller but still significant GHG reductions to residential energy use come from the high energy performance standards discussed in Strategy BE-1 and the effects of the County’s earlier all-electric reach code. ▪ Nonresidential energy: Similar to the residential energy sector, the largest share of GHG reductions in nonresidential energy use (44 percent) comes from energy efficiency and electrification of existing building in Strategy BE-2, followed by the State’s plan for increased natural gas from renewable sources (28 percent). The State’s RPS and Title 24 programs create the next-largest sources of reductions. The County’s energy performance standards in BE-1 and the County’s earlier all-electric reach code also play a role in reducing emissions from this sector. ▪ Solid waste: The largest contributor to solid waste GHG emission reductions in the CAAP is the increased capture rate of methane from landfills in Strategy NW-4, which is responsible for about 50 percent of these reductions. The State’s organics recycling requirements, SB 1383, is responsible for another 44 percent of GHG emission reductions from solid waste. Local efforts to increase recycling and minimize waste generation, as discussed in Strategies NW-1, NW-2, and NW-3, collectively achieve the remaining GHG emission reductions. Chapter 4 112 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 ▪ Agriculture: The State and CAAP strategies do not directly reduce agricultural emissions in a measurable manner, although Strategy TR-2 reduces emissions from agricultural equipment (part of the off-road equipment sector) and Strategy NI-4 may affect agricultural emissions by supporting increased carbon farming and sequestration on the County’s natural and working lands. ▪ Off-road equipment: The CAAP achieves reductions in off-road equipment GHG emissions by promoting replacing gasoline and diesel-fueled equipment with electric models, as discussed in Strategy TR-2. ▪ Water and wastewater: The primary contributor to GHG emission reductions from water and wastewater is the State’s RPS program. Water-efficiency standards in Strategy DR-1 account for the remaining GHG emission reductions. ▪ BART: The State’s RPS program reduces GHG emissions from BART operations. •▪ Land use and sequestration: Strategy NI-4 in the CAAP, which increases carbon farming and sequestration on the County’s natural and working lands, drives the GHG reductions in the land use and sequestration sector. With the reductions currently projected from the 2024 GHG emissions reduction strategies, GHG emissions for the unincorporated county are expected to be reduced to 856 percent below 1990 levels, equal to 878 percent below baseline 2005 levels andor 85 83 percent below 2019 levels. These reductions are predicted to occur across most GHG emission sectors, though emissions within the Solid Waste sector will continue to be affected by previously deposited waste continuing to decompose in landfills. As noted previously, there is the potential for these strategies to yield additional GHG emission reductions as County staff and decision makers develop and institute implementation actions and monitor the results. With these reductions as currently assessed, unincorporated Contra Costa County achieves the GHG emissions reduction goals for 2030 and 2045, as shown in Table 11. The County may reduce emissions faster than expected as it implements the CAAP, and it will report on this progress as part of the CAAP monitoring activities. 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 113 TABLE 11. 2024 GHG EMISSION REDUCTIONS AND REGULATORY GOALS 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E GHG emissions goals 658,700 164,680 GHG emissions with CAAP strategies 639,460 163,130 Gap to GHG emission reduction goal* -19,240 -1,550 Note: Due to rounding, totals may not equal the sum of the individual values. * Negative values mean that the strategies reduce GHG emissions to below the goal. THE 2024 CAAP AND NET CARBON NEUTRALITY Achieving net carbon neutrality in Contra Costa County will require implementation of GHG reduction efforts that meet the County’s regulatory goals, in combination with carbon sequestration and potentially other methods to “zero out” the remaining emissions. The 2024 CAAP achieves significant reductions in GHG emissions, consistent with the County’s emission reduction goals, and places Contra Costa County on a path to support statewide net carbon neutrality by 2045. Currently, there is insufficient guidance and certainty around local carbon sequestration, storage, and potential carbon offset strategies to mathematically demonstrate with certainty that the 2024 CAAP will achieve carbon neutrality by 2045. However, the County believes that such guidance and certainty will emerge in future years as the County, regional agencies, and the State further explore the opportunities, develop guidance and methods, and validate new technology. When available, guidance on quantifying how to achieve carbon neutrality will be integrated into future updates of this 2024 CAAP. For the foreseeable future, achieving net the County’s GHG emissions reductions goals, including carbon neutrality, will likely not be feasible without the use of local carbon sequestration, notably on natural and working lands. Although GHG emissions can be eliminated from many of the County’s GHG emissions sources, this is not practical for every source given technical, economic, or political considerations. Assuming implementation of the strategies in this 2024 CAAP, Figure 15 shows the major sources of Contra Costa County’s remaining GHG emissions in 2045. Chapter 4 114 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 FIGURE 15. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY 2045 GHG EMISSIONS WITH IMPLEMENTATION OF 2024 CAAP Note: Percentage totals in this chart do not account for emissions in the land use and sequestration sector (natural and working lands, urban trees, and developed land). With implementation of the 2024 CAAP, the land use and sequestration sector is projected to sequester 147,800 MTCO2e in 2045. Not including emissions associated with land use and sequestration.The “Other emissions” category is composed of emissions from BART; water and wastewater sectors; land development activities; and propane, kerosene, and wood used as heating fuels. The County should take advantage of future opportunities to reduce the GHG emissions from these sources as much as possible, ideally to zero. However, for GHG emissions that cannot be feasibly reduced in the short and near term, carbon sequestration on natural and working lands is the preferred strategy to “cancel out” these emissions so that the County’s net GHG emissions from remaining sources are zero. Should the County find that there continue to be GHG emissions, the County may want to consider and related strategies to remove carbon from the atmosphere may be able to “cancel out” these emissions so that the County’s net GHG emissions from remaining sources are zero. if equity and GHG emissions and other potential pollution concerns can be addressed. 0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100% Landfills On-road vehicles Building natural gas use Agricultural activities Off-road equipment Other emissions Solid waste generation Landfills (35%) On-road vehicles (19%) Building natural gas (12%) Agriculture (10%) Off-road equipment (9%) Other emissions (8%) Solid waste (7%) CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 115 5. CLIMATE ADAPTATION STRATEGY 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Photo credit: Envision Contra Costa picture gallery. Vulnerability Assessment Summary Contra Costa County prepared a vulnerability assessment that examines how people and assets in the county may be affected by the hazards related to climate change discussed in Chapter 3. This vulnerability assessment considers how severe the effects of these hazards are likely to be and identifies the groups of people and assets who face the greatest potential for harm. It considers both the current and future climate conditions in the unincorporated area of the county following the methods recommended by the California Adaptation Planning Guide prepared by the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services. An abridged version of the key vulnerability assessment results is presented here. Appendix C provides detailed information on the vulnerability assessment methods and results. Some hazards can occur virtually anywhere in Contra Costa County or may affect the entire county. This includes drought, human health hazards, and air quality impacts. Other hazards are much more likely in specific locations, such as landslides and flooding. However, people and assets outside of affected areas may still be harmed if the hazard creates a series of cascading impacts that ripple beyond the immediate hazard zone. For example, a fire near Orinda may close Highway 24 and the BART tracks in that area, interrupting BART service in the central and east parts of Contra Costa County and causing traffic congestion on alternate routes. The vulnerability assessment considers these indirect impacts and reflects them in its scores. Chapter 5 116 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 EFFECTS ON POPULATIONS Although climate change will affect everyone, some populations in the unincorporated county are likely to be affected more than others. This can include the risk of injury, death, or property damage or destruction, and can also include economic impacts and loss of income, behavioral and mental health impacts, and an overall decrease in quality of life. Impacted Communities, who have been historically under-resourced and are already more likely to face constraints such as limited financial resources, reduced access to education and job opportunities, and increased exposure to environmental hazards, are likely to be further affected as climate change–related hazards increase in frequency and severity. Other groups of people are also likely to be disproportionately affected, including senior citizens, renters, and persons with chronic health conditions. People with limited financial means, such as low-income persons and cost- burdened households (those who must spend more than 30 percent of their income on housing) are often vulnerable because they may lack the resources to retrofit their home against hazardous conditions or to move to an area with less risk. For example, low- income persons are less likely to live in homes that have reliable air conditioning and may not be able to afford to install these systems themselves, which puts them at greater risk of harm from extreme temperatures. They also face greater vulnerabilities because they may be less able to withstand a temporary loss of income if their work is affected by climate change–related hazards. People who work in outdoor activities, such as construction, agriculture, and recreation, are usually more susceptible. Lack of access to resources not only includes financial resources, but also communication, transportation, education, and other community services. Even people who are relatively well-off financially can be disproportionately affected by climate change–related hazards if they are physically or socially isolated. For example, persons with limited English proficiency may not be able to interact with officials, and persons without lifelines such as transportation, or broadband internet or other forms of reliable communication, may not be able to get accurate information about hazardous situations. This often makes it harder for them to get the resources needed to prepare for or respond to an emergency. Renters Due to the high cost of living in Contra Costa County, “low-income households” include some households who might be considered financially well off in other places. In 2022, a family of four in Contra Costa County is considered “low- income” if its annual income is lower than $109,600. 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 117 face similar threats because even if they have the financial resources to adapt to changing conditions, they have limited control over their home. Physical constraints can also make people more susceptible to climate change. Persons with disabilities may find it harder to prepare for hazardous events, and some hazards can exacerbate chronic health conditions and create a greater threat for persons with these conditions. Young children and senior citizens are disproportionately affected by some hazards, such as extreme heat and air pollution, even if they are entirely healthy. Senior citizens living alone are often at greater risk since they are more likely to be socially isolated. Persons with physical constraints are also more likely to need assistance during evacuations. The health equity of populations is also closely associated with racism, historic discrimination, and a wide range of socioeconomic conditions. The 2024 CAAP includes “place-based strategies”, such as efforts to enhance availability and access to resources and physical infrastructure. These strategies advance the County’s efforts to address GHG emissions as well as offer enhanced resilience in Impacted Communities. EFFECTS ON BUILDINGS AND INFRASTRUCTURE The vulnerability assessment considers the effects of climate change–related hazards on buildings and infrastructure, including private homes and businesses, public facilities such as government offices and libraries, and important institutions such as schools and hospitals. This category also includes infrastructure networks such as the electrical grid, roadways, rail lines, and water and wastewater systems. Buildings and infrastructure in hazard-prone areas are naturally vulnerable to damage or destruction from hazards that occur in those areas, such as floods, landslides, sea level rise, and wildfires. Designing new structures to be more resilient against these hazards or hardening existing ones to better resist them can help reduce the threat. The loss of key buildings and infrastructure systems can create potentially severe effects throughout the county. The loss of homes in a natural disaster means that a potentially large group of people must be temporarily housed while their homes go through the lengthy reconstruction process. Some people may choose not to return to their former community. Damages to businesses can cause economic harm to business owners and employees as well as members of various communities. For example, sea level rise and coastal flooding can interrupt many of the industrial and manufacturing centers located along the Contra Costa County shoreline, creating temporary or permanent loss of income for their employees, with possible cascading impacts such as harming the tax base and well-being of various communities. Chapter 5 118 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Infrastructure networks, despite their county-spanning size, are also vulnerable to disruption from hazards related to climate change. Damage to just one or a few key nodes or components of an infrastructure system can cause a chain reaction that restricts or shuts down the network across a much wider area. For example, 26 bridges in Contra Costa County are in areas at risk of a 100-year flood or dam inundation. Even though these bridges make up a very small portion of the overall roadway network in the county, damage to them can force travelers to take potentially long and congested detours or may render some areas completely inaccessible. Loss of key buildings or parts of infrastructure networks can also harm important community services that rely on these networks. This is particularly true for transportation infrastructure, such as roads and railways. If these systems are damaged or blocked, this can also block access by emergency response and public transit services vehicles. Even if alternate buildings and infrastructure networks are available, the alternatives may not be able to accommodate the change in demand. For example, 10 schools in Contra Costa County are in high and very high fire hazard severity zones. Although this is a relatively small proportion of the overall number of schools in the county, if some of these schools are damaged by wildfires, there may not be capacity at other, unharmed schools to take in all the displaced students. Contra Costa County’s infrastructure networks are connected to much larger regional, State, and national systems. These systems are vulnerable to disruption from outside of Contra Costa County, resulting in a loss of service to community members. For example, most of the water used in the unincorporated areas of the county is imported from the Sierra Nevada through a complex system of pumps, aqueducts, and reservoirs. Damage at any point along this system can affect Contra Costa County’s water supply, causing restricted water service. Many components of this system pass through eastern Contra Costa County and other low-lying areas of the Delta region, where they are particularly vulnerable to sea level rise. Buildings and infrastructure do not need to be physically damaged to trigger a loss of service. For example, extreme heat makes the machinery of the power grid run less efficiently and simultaneously increases demand to meet greater cooling needs. This combination raises the risk of the grid overloading and causing brownouts or blackouts. Similarly, drought conditions harm water delivery services but do not cause physical damage to pipes or water treatment plants. Economic drivers can also be affected without experiencing physical damage, such as when businesses are forced to close because of a public health emergency. 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 119 EFFECTS ON ECOSYSTEMS AND NATURAL RESOURCES Many of the ecosystems and other natural resources in California are unique to the state and have evolved under local conditions, including climate patterns. However, the unprecedented rate of change in the climate system can rapidly create local conditions unfavorable to ecosystems, killing them or forcing them out of the area before they have the chance to adapt. Damage or loss of local ecosystems and natural resources is harmful for its own sake, but it also affects the people and economy of Contra Costa County. Many ecosystems provide important services for communities, such as protection against floods and high winds, groundwater recharge and filtration, and home for pollinators and beneficial species. The natural environment provides recreational and tourism opportunities, contributes to the valued character of Contra Costa County, and helps maintain a high quality of life. Climate change often results in species and even entire ecosystems being forced out of their historical range and moving to areas that provide their preferred living conditions. In some cases, there may no longer be places in Contra Costa County that can support these ecosystems, and they disappear from the area. For example, the conifer forests in the hills of west county depend on fog and its cooling benefit in summer temperatures. As temperatures increase and coastal fog is expected to decrease, these trees may not survive. Habitat loss can also exacerbate this problem. For example, in a natural system, wetlands will migrate inland as sea levels rise. However, if the inland areas are blocked by development or other barriers, the wetlands cannot migrate and could disappear. Even if overall temperature and precipitation patterns remain favorable to key ecosystems and natural resources, the increased frequency and severity of some climate change– related hazards can harm these important community assets. Wildfires are a prime example of this. Many ecosystems in California, especially forests, rely on naturally Meadow environments such as this are highly susceptible to several climate change-related hazards. Photo credit: Deidra Dingman. Chapter 5 120 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 occurring wildfires to remove dead vegetation and return nutrients to the soil, and some species rely on fires for reproduction. However, increases in the intensity of wildfires mean that trees that could survive relatively low-level fires may not be able to survive much more severe blazes. Similarly, though occasional fires may be beneficial, too-frequent fires can kill young trees before they establish themselves, creating a risk that trees will be replaced by more rapidly growing grasses and brushlands. In some cases, climate change leads to cumulative impacts that can weaken or kill ecosystems. Species that have adapted to be relatively resistant to one or a small number of hazards may still be vulnerable to multiple hazards that happen at the same time or one after another in close succession. For example, forestry pests have long been a presence in California, and though they may kill individual trees or stands of trees, forests and woodlands are generally not significantly affected. However, drought and extreme temperatures weaken trees, making them more vulnerable to pests that could not do serious damage under normal conditions. At the same time, warmer temperatures can increase pest numbers and keep them active for more of the year, so they can do more damage than they could previously. This and similar cumulative effects mean that species and ecosystems that could resist hazardous events under normal conditions may be much more susceptible to them because of climate change. Adaptation Strategies A key goal of the 2024 CAAP is to reduce Contra Costa County’s GHG emissions. Combined with other global GHG emissions reduction efforts, the 2024 CAAP will help to prevent more severe effects of climate change. However, some degree of climate change is inevitable. Climate conditions in recent years in Contra Costa County are already different from historical conditions, and community members have already observed more frequent and intense climate change–related hazards. Contra Costa County will have to adapt to future climate conditions; acting now or in the short term will help communities be more resilient to climate change–related hazards expected decades in the future. This 2024 CAAP includes a set of adaptation strategies. These strategies respond to the key vulnerabilities identified by the vulnerability assessment; concerns about current and future conditions raised by community members and County officials; and best practices in the region and across California to help promote a more unified climate adaptation response. While these climate adaptation strategies do not directly result in measurable GHG emissions reductions, they do support the GHG emissions reduction strategies and contribute to a comprehensive climate change response. 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 121 The adaptation strategies are organized into two categories, each with its own goal: Climate Equity (CE) Resilient Communities and Natural Infrastructure (NI) As with the GHG emissions reduction strategies, the adaptation strategies support co- benefits, that is, benefits that the strategy provides to communities beyond increased resilience. Cost savings Enhanced recreation opportunities Greater community resilience Greater energy independence Improved air quality Improved community equity Improved public health Increased economic opportunities Increased resilience to pests Reduced disaster effects Reduced landfill waste Reduced resource use General Plan alignment As with the GHG reduction efforts in Chapter 4, the adaptation goals, strategies, and recommended implementation actions discussed in this chapter align with climate adaptation goals, policies, and actions in the County’s General Plan, as discussed in Chapter 1. When the 2024 CAAP and General Plan address similar topics, the language used in both documents is identical or at least consistent, ensuring that both are in sync and provide a unified approach to addressing climate adaptation. Chapter 5 122 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 RESILIENT COMMUNITIES AND NATURAL INFRASTRUCTURE (NI) CONTRA COSTA COUNTY WILL INCREASE RESILIENCE TO CLIMATE HAZARDS AND FOSTER COMMUNITY HEALTH. The 2024 CAAP takes steps to improve the resilience of Contra Costa County’s unincorporated communities by ensuring that structures and infrastructure are responsive to flooding, sea level rise, fire, heat, and other climate change hazards. Natural features such as trees, soils, and water can help make the county more resilient by absorbing carbon and modulating the effects of heat, sea level rise, and flooding. Community resilience hubs can serve as centralized locations for electricity access, cooling and clean air centers, and emergency preparedness and response resources. In addition to the General Plan, the strategies and actions in this goal integrate with the Contra Costa County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan and the Community Wildfire Protection Plan. The Local Hazard Mitigation Plan assesses risk to people and facilities from hazardous conditions and includes mitigation actions to reduce or eliminate risks, particularly in the short term. The Community Wildfire Protection Plan provides a snapshot of current wildfire protection challenges and capabilities, identifies and prioritizes areas for hazardous fuel reduction, and recommends types and methods of vegetation management that may help protect the affiliated communities from wildfire losses. The Contra Costa County Emergency Operations Plan describes the structures and processes the County follows to respond to and recover from emergency events. The County’s Extreme Weather Working Group collaborated in 2024 to create a series of hazard-specific plans or annexes that support the Emergency Operations Plan. These annexes identify County departments’ roles and responsibilities and create a framework for cities to follow during extreme heat, extreme cold, or poor air quality events. These annexes guide emergency planning and response to these events and bolster the County’s “whole community” approach to improve resilience today. Hercules waterfront. Photo credit: Emily Groth. 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 123 NI-1: Protect against and adapt to changes in sea levels and other shoreline flooding conditions. This strategy aims to protect communities against permanent and temporary inundation from rising sea levels and shoreline flooding through green infrastructure, effective building siting and retrofits, and informed land use decisions. Strategy NI-1 Co-benefits: Enhanced recreation opportunities Greater community resilience Reduced disaster impacts Strategy NI-1 Actions: ▪ Require new development to locate habitable areas of buildings above the highest water level expected, accounting for sea level rise and other changes in flood conditions, or construct natural and nature-based features, or a levee, if necessary, adequately designed to protect the project for its expected life. (HS- P6.1) ▪ Support the use of natural infrastructure, including ecosystem restoration and green infrastructure, to protect against sea level rise and associated shoreline flooding. ▪ Coordinate with State and regional agencies, neighboring jurisdictions, property owners, utilities, and others to prepare a sea level rise adaptation plan. ▪ Seek funding and pursue implementation of wetland restoration and other adaptation efforts for sea level rise. Sea level rise and other coastal flooding hazards threaten structures built near the shoreline. As of December 2023, 28.3 acres of County right- of-way had been converted to green infrastructure, with another 11.1 acres planned. The County continues to incorporate pervious paving in some projects, including projects at the El Sobrante Library and Rio Vista Elementary School in Bay Point. Chapter 5 124 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 ▪ Convene a working group that includes local jurisdictions, local shoreline communities, community-based organizations, property owners, businesses, and other stakeholders to collaborate on shoreline flooding adaptation strategies. ▪ Identify opportunities for employing natural areas as buffers against rising sea levels. NI-2: Protect against and adapt to increases in the frequency and intensity of wildfire events. This strategy aims to increase community resilience to the direct and indirect effects of wildfires, both locally and regionally. Public and private property shall be designed and maintained to minimize the risk of damage from wildfires; infrastructure systems will be hardened and designed to include redundancy; and emergency management plans and practices for wildfires will be responsive to the needs of Impacted Communities. Strategy NI-2 Co-benefits: Greater community resilience Improved community equity Improved public health Reduced disaster impacts Contra Costa Resilient Shoreline Ad Hoc Committee The Board of Supervisors established the Contra Costa Resilient Shoreline Ad Hoc Committee at the May 16, 2023, Board of Supervisors meeting. The committee makes recommendations to the Board on work the County can do to plan for sea level rise and improve shoreline resiliency. The committee also provides a dedicated space for Contra Costa County to consider how local sea level rise resilience and adaptation efforts can complement regional efforts happening across the San Francisco Bay Area. The committee has been meeting regularly since October 12, 2023. 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 125 Strategy NI-2 Actions: ▪ Prohibit new residential subdivisions in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones and discourage residential subdivisions in High Fire Hazard Severity ZonesDeny entitlements for projects creating additional residential units in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the LRA or SRA. Discourage such projects in High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the SRA and discourage them in such zones in the LRA unless adequate fire protection services are provided.11 (HS-P7.1) ▪ Require any construction of buildings or infrastructure within a High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone in the Local or State Responsibility Areas, or in areas that may be designated as the Wildland-Urban Interface, to incorporate fire-safe design features that meet the applicable State Fire Safe Regulations and Hazard Reduction Around Buildings and Structures Regulation for road ingress and egress, fire equipment access, and adequate water supply. (HS-P7.2) ▪ Require subdivisions in the High Fire Hazard Severity Zone in the Local or State Responsibility Areas, or projects requiring a land use permit in the High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone in the Local or State Responsibility Areas, to complete a site-specific fire protection plan. Collaborate Work with the appropriate fire protection district to review and revise the fire protection plans. (HS- P7.34) ▪ Work with property owners in mapped High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones or in areas that may be designated as the Wildland-Urban Interface, to establish and maintain fire breaks and defensible space, vegetation clearance, and 11 High and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones are mapped by CAL FIRE. Designations are based on factors that influence fire likelihood and fire behavior. Many factors are considered, such as fire history, existing and potential fuel (natural vegetation), predicted flame length, blowing embers, terrain, and typical fire weather for the area. Fire Protection Plans According to General Plan Policy HS-P7.3, a fire protection plan shall include measures for fire- resistant construction materials and modifying fuel loading, as well as a plan to maintain that protection over time. The fire protection plan shall include: a) A risk analysis b) Fire response capabilities c) Defensible space requirements d) Fire safety requirements for infrastructure e) Building ignition resistance f) Mitigation measures and design for non-conforming fuel modification g) Wildfire education h) Maintenance and limitations i) A plan for emergency preparedness, response, and evacuation Chapter 5 126 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 firefighting infrastructure that meets adopted State, County, or community fire safety standards. (HS-P7.45) ▪ Support undergrounding ofCoordinate with energy service providers to underground power utility lines, especially in the Wildland-Urban Interface and Fire Hazard Severity Zones. (HS-P7.810) ▪ Review indoor air filtration standards and consider whether filtration requirements can and should be strengthened for projects permitted by the County. ▪ Work with community organizations to help Impacted Communities have access to financing and other resources to reduce the fire risk on their property, prepare for wildfire events, and allow for a safe and speedy recovery. NI-3: Establish and maintain community resilience hubs. The intent of this strategy is to establish and maintain community resilience hubs with microgrids, education, training opportunities, and other community-focused resources. Under this strategy, the County develops a feasibility analysis and implementation plan for siting community resilience hubs across the county, with attention to Impacted Communities, and identifies opportunities for battery storage projects at County facilities. County emergency planners help enact this strategy by ensuring emergency response plans include climate change disasters such as wildfires, sea level rise, flooding, extreme heat, and drought. These efforts emphasize equitable recovery for Impacted Communities and those affected by environmental justice issues. Strategy NI-3 Co-benefits: Greater community resilience Improved community equity Increased resilience to pests Strategy NI-3 Actions: ▪ Pursue funding to develop a resilience hub master plan that identifies existing community facilities that can serve as resilience hubs and support affected populations during hazard events. This process should start with an assessment of community needs. Such facilities should be distributed equitably throughout the county, with an emphasis on easy access for Impacted Communities. Where appropriate facilities do not exist, develop plans to create new resilience hubs. (Supported by HS-P8.1) 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 127 ▪ Pursue funding to implement the resilience hub master plan, including retrofitting selected facilities to function as resilience hubs. These retrofits should involve adding solar panels, battery backup systems, water resources, air filtration, supplies to meet basic community and emergency medical needs, and other needs as identified by the resilience hub master plan. ▪ Create a virtual resilience hub that connects County resources to communities through virtual community networks to provide detailed, up-to-date information about preparing for natural disasters, public safety notifications and alerts, space for virtual gathering and information-sharing, and other appropriate uses. Materials shall be accessible in multiple languages. ▪ Coordinate resilience hub activities with planning efforts around public safety power shutoffs and wildfire smoke resiliency. NI-4: Sequester carbon on natural and working lands in Contra Costa County. NI-4 contributes significantly to the County’s resilience efforts, but because it results in measurable GHG emissions reductions, it is part of the County’s GHG emissions reduction approach and is included in Chapter 4. NI-5: Minimize heat island effects through the use of cool roofs, and green infrastructure, tree canopy, cool paint and pavement, and other emerging strategies. With this strategy, impacts of heat islands are addressed and minimized through construction practices for buildings and structures, including through ample shading opportunity and other green infrastructure improvements, including green stormwater infrastructure. Chapter 5 128 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Strategy NI-5 Co-benefits: Improved air quality Improved community equity Improved public health Increased economic opportunities Reduced disaster impacts Reduced resource use Strategy NI-5 Actions: ▪ Require landscaping for new development to be drought-tolerant, filter and retain runoff and support flood management and groundwater recharge. (COS-P-7.7) ▪ Promote installation of drought-tolerant green infrastructure, including street trees, in landscaped public areas. (COS-P7.8) ▪ Increase tree planting in urbanized areas and open spaces, where ecologically appropriate, emphasizing areas with limited existing tree cover, using low-maintenance native tree species that are low fire risk, and ensuring water supply resources are not compromised. (Supported by COS-P6.2) ▪ Consider preparing and implementing an Urban Forest Management Plan, or Tree Master Plan for the unincorporated county. ▪ Provide shade trees or shade structures at parks, plazas, and other outdoor spaces where feasible. ▪ Update When updating the County tree ordinances that relate to trees and green infrastructure, to consider whether factors for approval of tree removal and/or replanting requirements are adequately promote expansion of the tree canopy and green infrastructure inconsidering Impacted Communities (e.g., tree cover, replanting standard). (Supported by TR-A2.2, HS-P2.2, and HS-A2.5) ▪ Support efforts to develop incentive programs for home and business owners, school districts, and other local and regional property owners to increase the adoption of cool roofs, and green infrastructure, and other cooling strategies on private property. 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 129 Urban Heat Islands: Tree Cover and Impervious Surfaces The urban heat island effect is one of the most important aspects of how neighborhood conditions can exacerbate extreme heat. Urban heat islands are areas with little tree cover and significant portions of land covered by impervious surfaces or artificial structures covered with impenetrable materials, such as pavement and rooftops. Temperatures in these areas may be significantly hotter than in surrounding areas, especially at night, because impervious surfaces retain heat absorbed throughout the day. Addressing heat islands may also be an important lever for health equity, as researchers have found that low-income people and people of color are more likely to live in areas with land cover characteristics conducive to urban heat islands. Additionally, research has identified a correlation between home values and tree cover, meaning that addressing urban heat islands carries implications for financial equity. Actions to reduce the heat island effect also offer mitigation co-benefits, as increased tree cover can store carbon dioxide, as well as provide shade that reduces energy consumption needed for cooling buildings. Many cities in Contra Costa County contain areas with very little contiguous tree cover, including most of the cities in East and West County, along with significant parts of Martinez, Concord, Danville, and San Ramon. Areas with very high percentages of impervious surfaces exist in many of the same urban areas with little tree cover. Areas with a high percentage of impervious surfaces are concentrated in North Richmond, San Pablo, Richmond, and El Cerrito, and in some tracts in cities in Central and East County. Chapter 5 130 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 NI-6: Protect communities against additional hazards created or exacerbated by climate change. The goal of this strategy is to reduce impacts from other climate-related hazards, including drought, flooding, landslides, and severe weather. In accordance with this strategy, development projects are sited and designed to reduce exposure to hazardous conditions, and community members receive the support and assistance needed to prepare for and recover from natural disasters. Strategy NI-6 Co-benefits: Cost savings Greater community resilience Greater energy independence Improved community equity Improved public health Increased resilience to pests Reduced disaster impacts Strategy NI-6 Actions: ▪ Discourage new below-market-rate housing in High and Very High Wildfire Hazard Severity Zones, the Wildland-Urban Interface, and Alquist-Priolo Fault Zones. If below- market-rate housing must be constructed within these zones, require it to be hardened or make use of nature-based solutions to remain habitable to the greatest extent possible. (HS-P4.32) ▪ Treat susceptibility to hazards and threats to human health and life as primary considerations when reviewing all development proposals and changes to land uses. ▪ Partner with community-based organizations to provide information to community members about how to prepare for projected climate change hazards. ▪ Promote, and develop as necessary, available funding sources to create incentives for residents and businesses to prepare for natural disasters, particularly members of Impacted Communities. 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 131 ▪ Consider projected impacts of climate change when siting, designing, and identifying the construction and maintenance costs of capital projects. ▪ Actively promote and expand participation in local and regional community emergency preparedness and response programs. ▪ Support and fund efforts to enhance ongoing community and cross-sector engagement in community-level resilience and cohesion. Support non-governmental organizations to actively engage in developing a network of community-level actions that enhance resiliency. ▪ Work with energy service providers to promote programs encouraging reduced energy use during extreme heat events. (HS-P8.2) ▪ Support efforts by East Bay Regional Park District and other local recreation agencies to provide outdoor recreation facilities with adequate shading and refillable water stations where appropriate. (HS-P8.4) Chapter 5 132 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CLIMATE EQUITY (CE) CONTRA COSTA COUNTY WILL ADDRESS ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS LEADING TO HEALTH DISPARITIES, PROMOTE SAFE AND LIVABLE COMMUNITIES, AND PROMOTE INVESTMENTS THAT IMPROVE NEIGHBORHOOD ACCESSIBILITY. Ensuring that Contra Costa County’s unincorporated communities are a welcoming and resilient home to diverse families, individuals, and businesses as the effects of climate change intensify around the world means ensuring that the County’s climate action strategies are built on a foundation of justice and equity. Equity, justice, and the climate resilience they engender can take many forms across different sectors and include such strategies as supporting family-sustaining jobs in sustainable industries, providing equitably distributed green space, facilitating access to fresh and healthy food, and ensuring that all Contra Costa County departments and citizens are actively engaged in climate action planning. An important aspect of Climate Equity will be using culturally and linguistically appropriate methods. Climate action planning entails mobilizing the entire community to adopt a way of life and way of doing business that will not only weather the disruptions caused by climate change but will continue to thrive far into the future. CE-1: Provide access to affordable, clean, safe, and healthy housing and jobs. Strategy CE-1 aims to ensure that all residents live in clean, healthy homes and neighborhoods; have access to parks, open space, and fresh food; have easy access to safe and affordable mobility options; and are trained for and have access to living wage jobs. The County commits to implementing the 2024 CAAP strategies for equitable benefits to Impacted Communities, ensures every County department integrates climate issues and climate-related effects in services to residents, and meaningfully and continuously engages the communities most affected by climate change with developing and implementing appropriate solutions. 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 133 Strategy CE-1 Co-benefits: Enhanced recreation opportunities Greater community resilience Improved community equity Increased economic opportunities Increased resilience to pests Strategy CE-1 Actions: ▪ In partnership with community-based organizations, reverse community deterioration and blight and improve personal and property safety in neighborhoods throughout Contra Costa County. ▪ Ensure that new housing for households making less than the area median income and housing for other Impacted Communities are outside of hazard-prone areas, including for wildfires, landslides, floods, and sea level rise, or that they are hardened or make use of nature-based solutions to remain habitable to the greatest extent possible. (Supported by HS-P4.32) ▪ In partnership with community-based organizations, secure funding to create a program to provide low-cost or free air conditioning and filtration, improved insulation, low- emitting materials, energy solar and storage systems, energy efficiency, and indoor ventilation in homes, emphasizing buildings that are home to Impacted Community members. (SC-A6.2, SC-A6.3) ▪ Track development of local micro-grid battery storage policies and systems in other jurisdictions and identify potential opportunities for Contra Costa County. ▪ Encourage companies and entrepreneurs from local universities and national labs to create jobs in such industries as renewable energy, transportation technology, diverse forms of manufacturing, biotech/biomedical, and clean tech. ▪ Partner with local schools, the community college district, community-based organizations, labor unions, Workforce Development Boards, and other appropriate groups to provide training for residents for family-sustaining jobs in sustainable industries. Prioritize training for people currently or recently working in polluting or extractive activities. (SC-P1.1) Chapter 5 134 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 ▪ Provide support for State and federal programs that support family-sustaining jobs in sustainable industries, efforts to support organized labor, and living wage labor standards. ▪ Adopt an ordinance at least as stringent as the State’s maximum idling law, and coordinate with CARB and law enforcement to achieve compliance. (HS-A1.5) CE-2: Invest in solutions to support climate equity. With this strategy in place, County investments support climate equity. The County implements best practices in environmental, social, and governance considerations as the 2024 CAAP is implemented. Strategy CE-2 Co-benefits: Improved community equity Increased economic opportunities Strategy CE-2 Actions: ▪ Evaluate and adjust County planning and expenditures for infrastructure and services as needed to ensure equitable investment in Impacted Communities, consistent with SB 1000. ▪ Work with County departments to incorporate addressing climate change, providing climate solutions, and enhancing community equity more fully into County operations and the broad range of services the County provides. ▪ As part of the 2024 CAP2024 CAAP and General Plan implementation, consider whether the strategy being implemented provides equitable benefits for Impacted Communities as a criterion for prioritization. ▪ Continually engage communities most affected by climate change in developing and implementing climate solutions and ensure that such solutions provide benefits to Impacted Communities. ▪ Advocate for the Contra Costa Employees Retirement Association to include use of Environmental, Social, and Governance criteria in its investment policies. ▪ Require that the County’s Deferred Compensation Plan provider make available Environmental, Social, and Governance investment options for employees participating in the County’s 457 deferred compensation program. (In Progress) 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 135 ▪ Amend the County investment policy to consider the use of Environmental, Social, and Governance criteria and to continue and improve efforts to divest from fossil fuels. (Completed) ▪ Work with schools, the Contra Costa County Library, business groups, and community- based organizations to educate and inform community members about climate change and related sustainability topics, and the County’s climate goals and the actions the County is taking to achieve them. ▪ Evaluate the issuance of Labeled Bonds, such as “Green”, “Sustainable”, or “Social” bonds, during the planning stage of a bond issuance by the County. It is the County’s preference to issue Labeled Bonds if the evaluation demonstrates a financial or policy benefit to the County. (Completed) The County submitted a signed Agreement with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development in July 2023 for a $750,000 Community Project Funding grant to fund the development of a Just Transition Economic Revitalization Plan (JTERP). The JTERP is a plan for transitioning away from an economy that is dependent on fossil fuels to a zero-emission and clean and green economy and for improving the health, safety, infrastructure, and job opportunities of residents in communities most impacted by the environmental burdens of the climate crisis. On June 13, 2023, the Board of Supervisors approved the County’s Investment Policy for Fiscal Year 2023-2024. The policy includes a new provision regarding the prohibition of investment in securities issued by fossil fuel companies and the consideration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria. Chapter 5 136 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CE-3: Increase access to parks and open space. All County residents have easy access to parks and open space under this strategy. The County has an easily accessible and integrated system of high-quality, safe, and well- maintained parks and trails for all residents of the unincorporated county, including Impacted Communities. Strategy CE-3 Co-benefits: Enhanced recreation opportunities Greater community resilience Improved air quality Improved community equity Improved public health Increased economic opportunities Reduced disaster effects Strategy CE-3 Actions: ▪ Establish a goal for all residents to live within a half- mile of a park or other green space. ▪ Support land acquisition for new parks and open space areas and protect such lands through fee title acquisition or through deed restrictions like conservation easements. ▪ Continue to construct and develop opportunities for new trails. ▪ Support investment in existing park facilities, in partnership with regional agencies. ▪ Increase the tree canopy on public property, especially in Impacted Communities and areas with a high heat index, by prioritizing funding for new street tree planting and maintenance. (HS-P2.2) El Cerrito playground. Photo credit: Amalia Cunningham. 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 137 CE-4: Ensure residents have equitable, year-round access to affordable, local fresh food. With this strategy in place, county residents will have increased access to local fresh food. The County facilitates the creation of more Certified Farmers’ Markets, supports urban gardens, and ensures that healthy food is affordable and accessible to Impacted Communities and those in food desert areas. Strategy CE-4 Co-benefits: Improved community equity Improved public health Increased economic opportunities Strategy CE-4 Actions: ▪ Support establishment of year-round Certified Farmers’ Markets in all communities, prioritizing Impacted Communities. ▪ Work with community groups to establish and maintain urban gardens, particularly on vacant lots and park land in Impacted Communities. (SC-P4.1) ▪ Encourage major supermarkets to locate in Impacted Communities. ▪ Support co-operative grocery markets in Impacted Communities. Little Sprouts Farm in Bay Point. Chapter 5 138 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CE-5: Ensure that large industrial facilities act as good neighbors. This strategy helps to make sure that large industrial facilities are good neighbors. The County makes recommendations to responsible permitting agencies regarding permits for fossil-fuel based industries and/or point sources, tracks data on fossil fuel products produced and/or transported in and through Contra Costa County and allows for a Just Transition away from polluting and extractive industries. Strategy CE-5 Co-benefits: Improved air quality Improved community equity Improved public health Increased economic opportunities Strategy CE-5 Actions: ▪ Provide recommendations to responsible permit agencies regarding permits for fossil fuel-based industries and point sources Provide comments to responsible permit agencies on permit applications for large industrial facilities with significant emissions on potential measures to reduce impacts on and provide benefits to neighboring unincorporated communities. ▪ Regularly track data on fossil fuel production and transportation in Contra Costa County. ▪ Encourage the economic development of industries and supply chains that emphasize a reduction in GHG emissions. ▪ Encourage economic development and job creation in industries that advance the County’s sustainability goals, using the County’s policy on enhanced infrastructure financing districts. ▪ As economic conditions change, support efforts to phase out heavily polluting and extractive industries and replace them with businesses that contribute to a regenerative and circular economy. ▪ Require new or expanded commercial and industrial projects exceeding resulting in 25,000 square feet or more of gross habitable floor area to be near zero-emission operations, including the facilities themselves and the associated fleets, except for uses with fewer than five vehicles domiciled on-site. Require all necessary measures to achieve near- –zero- emissions. (HS-P1.8) 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 139 Collectively, the strategies in this section will help community members and assets adapt to changing climate conditions and improve resilience to climate change–related hazards as well as confer many relevant co-benefits. Unlike the GHG emissions reduction strategies in Chapter 4, adaptation strategies do not have quantitative goals. However, these strategies can contribute to quantified benefits, including reductions in property damage, decreases in the number or severity of hazard events, and preservation of key community standards. These quantified benefits also support performance standards discussed in the General Plan elements. Near-Zero Operations for Large Commercial or Industrial Facilities According to General Plan Policy HS-P1.8, measures to achieve near-zero emissions for large commercial or industrial projects may include: a) Reduce on-site energy consumption and increase on-site energy generation and energy storage. b) Provide adequate on-site zero-emission vehicle-capable parking for all anticipated truck traffic to prevent idling and off-site queuing. c) Provide electrified loading docks with receptables allowing plug-in of refrigerated trailers. d) Use heavy-duty trucks that are model year 2014 or later and expedite a transition to zero-emission trucks by establishing a clear timeline for electrification of trucks as they become commercially available. Ensure contracts with motor carriers include air quality incentives or requirements, such as providing incentives to fleets that meet United States Environmental Protection Agency SmartWay standards or requiring use of zero- emission or near zero-emission trucks. e) Use a “clean fleet” of delivery vehicles as they become commercially available, but no later than 2025. f) Use zero-emission yard equipment, such as forklifts, pallet trucks and jacks, and stackers. g) Implement practices to control and remove fugitive dust and other contaminants from paved areas. Chapter 5 140 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 This page intentionally left blank. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 141 6. R EALIZING THE 2024 CAA P 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Photo credit: Envision Contra Costa photo gallery Enacting the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan To ensure the success of the 2024 CAAP, Contra Costa County will integrate the goals and strategies of this plan into other local and regional plans and prioritize and implement the programs and activities identified herein. As the County updates other planning documents, such as the Municipal and Zoning Codes, or Specific Plans, staff will ensure that these documents support and are consistent with the 2024 CAAP. Implementing the 2024 CAAP will require County staff and leadership to enact these strategies and report progress. This plan CAAP identifies a work plan that includes responsible departments/divisions, time frames, and relative costs associated with each strategy. Staff will monitor progress using an implementation and monitoring tool on an annual basis and will provide an annual update to County decision-makers. The Contra Costa County Sustainability Group, part of the County’s Department of Conservation and Development, is responsible for leading overall implementation of the CAAP, and working with other County departments and community partners to implement specific CAAP strategies and actions. The following strategies and associated actions are designed to guide Contra Costa County in successfully implementing the 2024 CAAP. Chapter 6 142 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 LEADERSHIP STRATEGIES (L) CONTRA COSTA COUNTY IS A MODEL FOR HOW LOCAL GOVERNMENT CAN TAKE ACTION ON CLIMATE ISSUES. Advancing meaningful action on climate change requires sustained commitment and active involvement from Contra Costa County government officials, community members, local organizations, regional agencies, and more. The 2024 CAAP’s leadership strategies are designed to facilitate the long-range and creative planning that will ensure that Contra Costa County is on the forefront of climate change mitigation and adaptation. These efforts include ensuring that climate action is a priority across County departments and that County staff are equipped to address climate change as part of their work; supporting the development of climate action funding mechanisms; and incorporating analysis of climate change and equity in budgeting decisions. While GHG emissions from County operations are a very small percentage of emissions countywide, it is important for the County to demonstrate in its day-to-day business its commitment to climate action. New programs being introduced by BayREN should provide additional resources for County operations to reduce GHG emissions. L-1: Establish Contra Costa County as a leader among local governments for addressing climate issues. Strategy L-1 Actions: ▪ Continue to publicize and support the operations of the County’s Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force and Green Government Group (G3) Champions. ▪ Work with all County departments to encourage adoption of best practices from the County’s Green Business Program and other practices that support the County’s climate goals. ▪ Encourage development of new policies and initiatives that support the County’s climate goals. ▪ Explore the creation of funding mechanisms, including a carbon impact fee, to support the County’s Sustainability Fund for investments in County facilities if additional financial resources are needed. 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 143 ▪ Support legislative efforts to establish a green bank able to equitably finance sustainability projects, including renewable energy, energy efficiency, and green infrastructure, for residential and commercial customers. (COS-A14.910) ▪ Ensure that funding mechanisms to address climate change minimize or avoid disproportionate financial impacts to Impacted Communities and do not exacerbate economic inequities, to the extent feasible. ▪ Facilitate trainings for County staff on climate change (including the results of the Vulnerability Assessment and 2024 CAP2024 CAAP technical work) and how they can support climate action through their work with the County and at home. ▪ Encourage County employees to explore innovative technologies and programs that address climate change. ▪ Incorporate integrated pest management into new construction and retrofit programs on County properties. ▪ Ensure County departments follow the County’s Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Policy and policy requirements are included in the contracting process. ▪ Regularly review and revise the County’s purchasing and contracting programs as necessary to ensure consistency with the County’s sustainability and GHG reduction goals. (HS-A3.23) County Green Government Group Champions at a planting day with Friends of Alhambra Creek. Photo credit: Jody London. Chapter 6 144 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 L-2: Continue to recognize the climate crisis as an emergency for Contra Costa County and make addressing climate change a top County priority. Strategy L-2 Actions: ▪ Continue to implement the 2020 Climate Emergency Resolution approved by the Board of Supervisors, including conducting periodic reviews and updates to the Resolution. ▪ Consider climate vulnerabilities and associated equity effects as factors in the County’s planning and expenditures for infrastructure and services to increase resilience and reduce GHG emissions countywide. ▪ Consider developing standards for the disclosure of climate and equity effects and vulnerabilities in staff reports for all decisions by the Board of Supervisors when such disclosures are helpful and necessary. Explore modifying County processes and forms to include questions to ensure the proposed action is consistent with the 2024 CAP2024 CAAP and equity goals. ▪ Assess County programs, policies, operations, and projects (excluding stationary sources) for their contribution to achieving the County’s GHG emissions reduction goals and consistency with the 2024 CAP2024 CAAP. ▪ Disclose GHG emissions to a registry such as the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP). Climate change is a priority for Contra Costa County residents, who support continued County leadership on this topic. 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 145 IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES (IS) CONTRA COSTA COUNTY WILL ENSURE IT FOLLOWS THROUGH TO ACHIEVE THE GOALS AND ACTIONS IN THIS CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN. Successfully reducing GHG emissions, addressing climate change vulnerabilities, and building community resilience require active, organized, and ongoing collaboration between County government, local businesses and community-based organizations, regional governments, and the public. Implementation strategies in this 2024 CAAP are intended to ensure the continued provision of resources for the implementation, revision, and monitoring of the 2024 CAAP as well as the continued cultivation of government and community partnerships. IS-1: Monitor and report progress toward achieving Climate Action and Adaptation Plan goals on an annual basis. Strategy IS-1 Actions: ▪ Assign responsibility for facilitating and supporting 2024 CAAP implementation to the County’s Department of Conservation and Development. ▪ Identify key staff from each department responsible for supporting 2024 CAAP implementation and updates for annual reporting and monitoring. ▪ Continue to involve community-based organizations and other key stakeholders in reviewing and recommending 2024 CAAP action items. ▪ Continue to prepare an annual progress report on implementation of the recommended GHG emissions reduction strategies and progress toward the 2024 CAAP goals. When information is available, provide updates on estimated GHG emissions reductions and current GHG emissions levels. ▪ Monitor implementation of the Sustainability Fund for projects in County facilities. ▪ Use the 2024 CAAP implementation and monitoring tool to track GHG benefits from 2024 CAAP implementation and identify progress toward the 2024 CAAP reduction goals. ▪ Pursue refinements to the County permitting system and other systems as needed to support collection of 2024 CAAP implementation data. Chapter 6 146 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 ▪ Work with Contra Costa Health on exploring and, if appropriate, developing health indicators related to climate change to help inform progress on current actions and effectiveness of adaptation strategies. IS-2: Continue collaborative partnerships with agencies and community groups that support Climate Action and Adaptation Plan implementation, with an emphasis on residents and community- based organizations from Impacted Communities. Strategy IS-2 Actions: ▪ Participate in local and regional organizations that provide tools and support for energy efficiency, energy conservation, GHG emissions reductions, sustainable infrastructure development, adaptation, public information, and implementation of this 2024 CAAP. ▪ Enable effective partnerships to implement high-priority strategies from the 2024 CAAP by working through established interagency collaborations and joint exercise of powers authorities and forming new arrangements of various types where necessary to be effective. ▪ Provide input to partner agencies on policy barriers that need to be addressed at the State level. ▪ Continue collaboration with other local governments in Contra Costa County on climate action and related subjects, including an annual Sustainability Exchange meeting of all local government staff in Contra Costa County that focus on climate action and adaptation planning and implementation. The Sustainability Exchange is a regular gathering for local government staff in Contra Costa County who work on sustainability issues to network and learn from one another. The Sustainability Exchange launched in January 2017. Every meeting includes time for networking and learning about the work of others in Contra Costa County, as well as a topical presentation and opportunity to reflect in small groups. 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 147 Members of the Sustainability Exchange tour the Antioch Dunes National Wildlife Refuge. Photo credit: Contra Costa County staff IS-3: Secure necessary funding to implement the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan. Strategy IS-3 Actions: ▪ Identify funding sources and levels for reduction strategies as part of annual reporting. ▪ Include GHG emissions reduction strategies in the capital improvement programs for County-owned and managed facilities and infrastructure, and other plans as appropriate. ▪ Pursue local, regional, state, and federal grants to support implementation. Explore dedicated funding sources for 2024 CAAP implementation, including from the Sustainability Fund or other revenue sources as needed. ▪ Explore opportunities to allocate a portion of revenues from revenue-generating strategies in the 2024 CAAP to its implementation. Chapter 6 148 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 IS-4: Continue to update the baseline emissions inventory and Climate Action and Adaptation Plan every five years. Strategy IS-4 Actions: ▪ Prepare a GHG emissions inventory that shows GHG emissions after emergency conditions created by the COVID-19 pandemic are expected to have ended Update the community-wide GHG emissions inventory every five5 years at a minimum and more frequently as resources are available. Prepare an inventory for the 2024 calendar year within a year of adoption of the 2024 CAAP. ▪ Update the 2024 CAAP to incorporate new technologies, practices, and other options to further reduce emissions. (HS-A3.1) IS-5: Maintain and update the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan to allow for greater resilience. Strategy IS-5 Actions: ▪ Coordinate, where possible, updates of the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan, General Plan Safety Element, and Local Hazard Mitigation Plan cycles to ensure plan alignment and coordination of climate mitigation and adaptation efforts. ▪ Assess the implementation status and effectiveness of adaptation strategies. CAAP Updates Per HS-A3.1 in the County’s General Plan, future updates to the 2023 CAAP must include: a) Inventories of GHG emissions in the unincorporated county. b) GHG reduction goals for 2030 and 2045 at a minimum. c) Forecasts of GHG emissions for the unincorporated county consistent with the growth assumptions of the General Plan. d) GHG reduction measures and strategies with quantifiable outcomes. e) Climate adaptation and resilience strategies to ensure the county’s communities can respond to changing climate conditions. f) An implementation and monitoring program to track the County’s progress toward achievement of the GHG reduction targets. g) A community and stakeholder engagement program for CAP preparation and implementation. 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 149 Work Plan Table 12 contains information to support staff and community implementation of the strategies and to effectively integrate them into budgets, the capital improvement program, and other programs and projects. These implementation details are: CAAP Strategy and Implementation Actions: The strategy language and the specific actions needed for reductions and increased resilience. Potential Strategies of Effectiveness: Metrics that County staff and others could use to track the success of the strategy. Lead Department(s): The lead County department(s) tasked with implementing the strategy. Potential Partners: Example local organizations that the County will partner with to implement the given strategy. Additional community partners will be welcome. Although significant GHG emissions reduction policies and initiatives are already in place, the actions proposed in this plan, by necessity, far surpass the scale of existing efforts. Implementing the plan and ensuring that it results in real, additional GHG emissions reductions will require increased coordination across sectors and institutionalized climate protection efforts across communities. The number of actions recommended in this plan will take many years to implement, given limitations in both staff time and funding. Time Frame: The year by which a strategy should be effective by fiscal year’s end. The exact status of a strategy will vary based on its actions, and many strategies will be ongoing through and beyond 2030. An effective strategy will be one that is actively on track to achieve its GHG emissions reductions, support adaptation to climate change effects, or achieve long-term resilience. For a strategy to be effective, the necessary programs and efforts should be active, and any infrastructure or other capital improvements should be in place. The effective year is not the end year—many of the strategies are intended to remain in effect for the foreseeable future, so they do not have end dates. Time frames for effectively setting up the strategies are: • Near Term (by 2026) • Mid-term (by 2028) • Long Term (by 2030) Chapter 6 150 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Applicability: The people, development, land uses, activities, and other aspects of communities that the strategy applies to. Though near term priorities are identified, please note that priorities can and do shift based on funding availability, advances in technology, new and better ideas, etc. The 2024 CAAP and this implementation section should be considered a living document. 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 151 TABLE 12. 2024 CAAP IMPLEMENTATION MATRIX CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME Clean and Efficient Built Environment: Homes, workplaces, and businesses in unincorporated Contra Costa County run efficiently on clean energy. BE-1: Require and incentivize new buildings and additions built in unincorporated Contra Costa County to be low-carbon or carbon neutral. − Consider Continue adopting new or modified reach codes and consider future updates that exceed the California Building Standards Code, as the State updates the Building Code every three years, to require the use of lower-carbon intensive energy sources, to achieve higher feasible levels of energy conservation and efficiencyperformance, and to achieve lower feasible levels of GHG emissions. (COS-A14.4) − Maintain, update, and pPublicize, and enforce the County Oordinances and programs Code Title 7 – Building Regulations amendment requiring new residential buildings, hotels, offices, and retail to be more energy efficient, with low levels of greenhouse gas emissions.all-electric. Evaluate the feasibility of including other building types as appropriate. (COS-A14.5) − Partner with community groups and MCE to establish an induction cooktop loaner program for county residents. − Design and construct new County facilities to be zero- net energy to the extent feasible. (COS-P14.8) − Study the feasibility of establishing a low-carbon concrete requirement for all new construction and retrofit activities and consider additional strategies to reduce embedded carbon in construction materials. The intent is to determine what the County can and should do to support or exceed State requirements for net-zero emissions for cement use by 2045. (HS-A3.2) Key Performance Metric(s): − Implement the reach code. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Participation in energy efficiency and weatherization programs by new residential and commercial buildings (including County facilities), with attention to participation in Impacted Communities. (Conservation and Development – community; Public Works – County facilities) − Energy efficient lighting and other appliances and mechanical systems in new County buildings. (Public Works) − Completed report exploring requirements for low- carbon concrete in new construction. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − BayREN − Local contractors, developers, architects, and Contra Costa County Building Trades Council − MCE − PG&E − Building Industry Association − BAAQMD Applicability − County operations − New development − Residents in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Near term (by 2026) Chapter 6 152 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − Provide educational materials to encourage project applicants to incorporate passive solar design features into new developments and significant reconstructionsalterations and additions. − Promote additional sustainable building strategies and designs, including small and “tiny” homes, to project applicants as site appropriate. Consider requiring additional sustainable features as a condition of approval, including reuse of materials to minimize embedded carbon. − Provide educational and technical resources to advance the adoption of heat pump water heater and heat pump space heating in buildings in support of BAAQMD Regulation 9, Rule 4, and Regulation 9, Rule 6, which will mandate that replacement and new water heaters (2027 and 2031) and space heaters (2029) are zero NOx. (COS-P14.10) BE-2: Retrofit existing buildings and facilities in the unincorporated county, and County infrastructure, to reduce energy use and convert to low-carbon or carbon-neutral free fuels. − Create a County policy or program to facilitate making existing residential and nonresidential buildings more energy-efficient and powered by carbon-free energy. (COS-A14.6) − Create a detailed County roadmap to convert existing homes and businesses to use low-carbon or zero-carbon-free appliances. The roadmap should include steps to support converting buildings to rely on low-carbon or zero-carbon-free energy using an equitable framework that minimizes the risk of displacement or significant disruptions to existing tenants. (COS-A14.7) − Require replacement and new water heaters and space heating and cooling systems to be electric or have no nitrogen oxide emissions if the building electric panel has sufficient capacity in Key Performance Metric(s): − Participation in energy efficiency and weatherization programs, including retrofits and site rehabilitation, by existing residential and commercial buildings (including County facilities), with attention to participation in Impacted Communities. (Conservation and Development) − Roadmap to convert existing buildings to all-electric (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Energy efficient lighting and other appliances and mechanical systems. (Conservation and Development) − Expanded or created retrofit programs to complement weatherization programs that serve low-income county residents. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − BayREN − Local contractors, architects, and Contra Costa County Buildings Trades Council − MCE − Neighborhood Preservation Program − Contra Costa County Asthma Initiative Applicability − County operations − Existing development − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 153 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME accordance with BAAQMD Regulation 9, Rule 4, and Regulation 9, Rule 6. (COS-P14.10) − Provide educational and technical resources to advance the adoption of heat pump water heater and heat pump space heating in new buildings. − Evaluate options for incentivizing and requiring additions and alterations to be energy efficient and to achieve the lowest feasible levels of GHG emissions, including upgrades to the building electric panel, as needed. (COS-P14.8) − Ensure County-led and supported retrofit programs incentivize and prioritize conversion of buildings built before 1980 and emphasize assistance to owners of properties that are home to very low-, low-, and moderate- income residents and/or located in Impacted Communities, as permitted by available funding. (COS-A14.9) − Explore opportunities, in collaboration with partner agencies, to create new incentives or publicize existing ones to support updating existing buildings to achieve the lowest feasible levels of GHG emissions. − Work to continue to obtain funding with partners such as BayREN and MCE to implement a program or programs to provide reduced- cost or free energy-efficiency and zero-carbon retrofits to local small businesses and households earning less than the area median income, in support of the Contra Costa County Asthma Initiative, Contra Costa County Weatherization Program, similar County programs, other nonprofit partners, and other health equity efforts for Impacted Communities. Support the use of low- emitting materials, including paints and carpeting, in retrofits to improve indoor air quality. − In partnership with MCE and BayREN, continue to support voluntary home and business energy efficiency retrofits, including all-electric measures. Time Frame Near term (by 2026) Chapter 6 154 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − Partner with community groups and MCE to establish an induction cooktop loaner education program for county residents. (Initiated in 2024.) − Facilitate participation by homes and businesses in demand response programs. − Continue to conduct energy and water tracking activities, audits, and upgrades of County facilities, including conversion of feasible County facilities to all-electric space and water heating. − Advocate for modifications to the federal Weatherization Assistance Program that expand eligible measures to include whole building clean energy improvements, such as wall insulation, duct sealing, electric panel upgrades, electric heat pumps, and related measures. Advocate for an increase in the income eligibility limits for the Weatherization Assistance Program. − Implement requirements for cool roofs and light-colored, nonreflective permeable paving materials as part of retrofit, repair, and replacement activities, using recycled materials or other materials with low embedded carbon as feasible and as established by the Building Standards Code. BE-3: Increase the amount of electricity used and generated from renewable sources in the county. − Require new commercial parking lots with 50 or more spaces to mitigate heat gain through installation of shade trees, solar arrays, or other emerging cooling technologies. Prioritize the use of solar arrays where feasible and appropriate. (HS-P8.3) − Encourage property owners to pursue financial incentives for solar installations and energy storage technologies, such as battery storage systems, on new and existing buildings. Key Performance Metric(s): − Number and percent of County and community accounts enrolled in MCE Deep Green (Conservation and Development) − Total megawatts of installed renewable energy capacity, by type, in the unincorporated county. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): Potential Partners − BayREN − Fire protection districts in Contra Costa County − Local contractors, architects, and Contra Costa County Building Trades Council − MCE − PG&E − BAAQMD 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 155 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − Work with MCE to increase enrollment, especially in the Deep Green tier. − Continue to enroll all eligible, non-solar-equipped County facility electricity accounts in MCE territory in the Deep Green tier. − Work with the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District and other organizations that provide fire protection services to provide education and promote incentives for battery storage systems that can increase the resilience of homes and businesses to power outages. − Encourage installation of battery storage systems in new and existing buildings, especially buildings with solar energy systems and buildings that provide essential community services. (COS- P14.7) − Provide information about battery storage systems with all applications for new home construction and solar panel installations. − Pursue implementation of recommendations of the 2018 Renewable Resource Potential Study. − Evaluate the least-conflict feasible locations for stand-alone battery storage systems and modify land use regulations to enable such use in these locations. − Explore the technical and economic feasibility of developing and operating microgrids in Contra Costa County, and for County facilities. − Explore opportunities to install community solar projects with battery backup to provide clean energy to Impacted Communities. − Megawatts of rooftop and parking lot solar installed in unincorporated county, including County facilities and Impacted Communities. (Conservation and Development – community; Public Works – County facilities) − Megawatt-hours of installed battery storage capacity at public and private buildings. (Conservation and Development – community; Public Works – County facilities) − Percent of electricity supplied by PG&E and MCE from renewable sources. (Conservation and Development) − Number of new and existing buildings with energy storage systems, including County facilities. (Conservation and Development – community; Public Works – County facilities) − Progress in meeting recommendations from the 2018 Renewable Resource Potential Study. (Conservation and Development) Applicability − County operations − Existing development − New development − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Mid-term (by 2028) Chapter 6 156 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME No Waste Contra Costa: Contra Costa County disposes no more solid waste than 2.2 pounds per person per day. NW-1: Increase composting of organic waste. − Ensure, through franchise agreements and other relationships with waste haulers, a source-separated organics collection service for all residential and commercial customers in County-controlled collection franchise areas. − Require that new and expanded landfill operations significantly reduce GHG emissions to meet or exceed State targets to the extent feasible, and work toward carbon-neutral landfills. (PFS- 7.12) − Work with wastewater providers to explore the use of organic waste as feedstock for anaerobic digesters to produce biogas that can generate electricity or fuel. − Require local restaurants, grocery stores, and other edible food generators that handle large quantities of food to partner with food rescue organizations to divert edible food that would be otherwise disposed in landfills for distribution to those in need, in accordance with SB 1383. − Collaborate with edible food recovery programs and the Community Wellness & Prevention Program to decrease food waste and address hunger. − Procure compost or other products made from recovered organic waste in accordance with the County’s Recovered Organic Waste Product and Recycled Paper Procurement Policy. Key Performance Metric(s): − Percentage of County-controlled franchise areas with source separated organics collection for residential customers. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Number of commercial edible food generators in County-controlled franchise areas participating in edible food recovery program. (Conservation and Development) − Number of projects complying with the Model Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance (MWELO) required to use compost. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Applicability − Environmental justice organizations − Food rescue organizations − Major generators of organic waste (schools, restaurants, event spaces, grocery stores, etc.) − Waste haulers − Wastewater service providers − Contra Costa Health, CWPP − County Jail meal service − Schools − Hospitals Time Frame Mid-term (by 2028) NW-2: Reduce waste from County operations. − Establish a Continue source-separated organics collection service at all County-owned facilities that includes recovering food waste (scraps) and food-soiled paper. Key Performance Metric(s): − Recycling, composting at County facilities. (Public Works) Potential Partners − County operations Applicability − Waste haulers 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 157 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − Implement three-stream recycling (trash, recycling, and organic waste) at all County-owned facilities. − Establish requirements for source-separated organics collection and three-stream recycling as conditions in lease agreements for County offices. − Conduct waste audits of County facilities, including assessing the volume and composition of all waste streams, to identify challenges with waste activities and develop educational or operational changes to address issues and reduce waste generation. − Obtain material for capital projects from local and low-carbon sources to the greatest extent feasible, including allocating additional funds to allow for such materials, and integrate appropriate standards into the County’s Environmentally Preferable Purchasing (EPP) policy. − Continue to reduce paper use in County operations. Procure recycled paper and janitorial supplies in accordance with the Recovered Organic Waste Product and Recycled Paper Procurement Policy. − Continue engagement with TRUE zero-waste certification for County projects. − Enact Bay-friendly landscaping practices at County facilities. Develop County policies and practices for Bay-friendly landscaping. − Explore opportunities to reuse wood from County tree maintenance activities as an alternative to chipping. − Encourage medical facilities and medical waste recycling companies to upgrade facilities to increase the amount of medical waste recycled or reprocessed. − Explore the feasibility of transitioning to reusable products in the health sector, where appropriate, and procuring products certified as green or low carbon. − Volume of waste disposed at County facilities. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Recycled content of County purchases consistent with applicable requirements of SB 1383. (Public Works) − Enforcement of requirements for County vendors and contractors to adopt and implement the Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Policy. (Public Works) − Number of County facilities with Bay-friendly landscaping practices. (Public Works) − Tonnage of recycled and composted materials, by type, collected at County facilities. (Public Works) − Number of County facilities with three-stream recycling. (Public Works) Time Frame Mid-term (by 2028) Chapter 6 158 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME NW-3: Increase community-wide recycling and waste minimization programs. − Create a source-reduction program in partnership with regional agencies to promote rethinking, refusing, reducing, reusing, and regenerating of materials. − Improve educational efforts to promote better waste sorting among community members. − Work with waste haulers to expand the types of materials accepted by recycling programs as economic conditions allow. − Work with waste haulers to continue availability of curbside pickup recycling services. − Evaluate the feasibility of banning single-use plastics or establishing additional restrictions beyond those created by SB 54. − Encourage the use of reusable items over disposable materials. − Promote the Contra Costa County Recycling Market Development Zone low-interest loan program to create incentivesize for the development of businesses that use recycled materials. Key Performance Metric(s): − Actual disposed pounds per person per day (PPD) numbers year over year. (Conservation and Development) − Number of households and businesses subscribing to recycling and organics service. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Number of businesses participating in Recycling Market Development Zone program (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − New development − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Applicability − Major waste generators − Waste haulers − Recycling centers Time Frame Mid-term (by 2028) NW-4: Reduce emissions from landfill gas. − Encourage efforts at Acme, Keller Canyon, and West Contra Costa landfills to install or enhance existing methane capture technology and associated monitoring systems with a goal of increasing the methane capture rate to the greatest extent feasible. − Explore opportunities for partnering with agricultural and industrial operations to generate energy from methane gas generated by their ongoing activities. − Support landfill operators in efforts to transition away from landfill gas flaring. (COS-P14.5) Key Performance Metric(s): − Methane capture rate Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Tons of flared landfill gas Potential Partners − Landfill operators Applicability − Landfill operators Time Frame Mid-term (by 2028) 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 159 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME Reduce Water Use and Increase Drought Resilience: Contra Costa County uses less water and communities are prepared for drought. DR-1: Reduce indoor and outdoor water use. − Require new development to reduce potable water consumption through use of water-efficient devices and technology, drought- tolerant landscaping strategies, and treated recycled water, where available. (COS-P7.61) − Require homes and businesses to install water-efficient fixtures at time of retrofit activities, in accordance with the California Building Standards Code. − Continue to enforce the Model Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance and encourage the use of native and drought-tolerant landscaping for exempt residential and commercial landscapes through partnership with local and regional water agencies and other organizations. − Partner with water and wastewater service providers, Groundwater Sustainability Agencies, irrigation districts, and private well owners to increase participation in water conservation programs countywide. (COS-P7.12) − Facilitate offering of BayREN water bill savings programs through eligible community water providers. − Encourage the installation of graywater and rainwater catchment systems, particularly for new construction, as feasible for wastewater infrastructure. Reduce regulatory barriers for these systems and explore creating incentives for installing these systems in new and existing buildings. − Identify Evaluate opportunities for graywater use in public spaces and implement them as feasible. − Promote the installation of composting toilets at appropriate County facilities in locations without wastewater service. Key Performance Metric(s): − Water use, specifically reduction in overall water use in the unincorporated county as reported by water companies. (Conservation and Development) − Water use, specifically reduction in water use at County facilities. (Public Works) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Square footage of native and drought-tolerant landscaping projects at County facilities. (Public Works) − Number of participants in Contra Costa Water District Lawn to Garden program. (Conservation and Development) − Number of participants in East Bay Municipal Utility District Lawn Conversion program. (Conservation and Development) − Number of water districts participating in BayREN water savings program. (Conservation and Development) − Number of customers participating in water conservation programs sponsored by water companies. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − Water providers − Green Business Program Applicability − Central Contra Costa Sanitary District − Contra Costa Water District − East Bay Municipal Utility District − West County Wastewater District − Other water and wastewater service providers − Contra Costa Health − UC Master Gardeners − Nurseries − Property managers Time Frame Near term (by 2026) Chapter 6 160 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME DR-2: Ensure sustainable and diverse water supplies. − Encourage Contra Costa Health to work with Groundwater Sustainability Agencies to ensure that new well permit applications are in accordance with County ordinances and State construction standards and require a hydrogeological evaluation in areas with known water shortages to ensure that the sustainable yield goals can be met. − Require new development to demonstrate the availability of a safe, sanitary, and environmentally sound water delivery and wastewater treatment systems with adequate capacity. (PFS-P4.5, PFS-P4.6) − Discourage new development that may reasonably lead to groundwater overdraft, subsidence, or other negative impacts, or which may reasonably depend on the import of unsustainable quantities of water from outside the county. − Require the use of permeable surfaces for new or reconstructed hardscaped areas where feasible. − In coordination with Groundwater Sustainability Agencies, expand opportunities for groundwater recharge. − Work with water suppliers to expand recycled water systems as feasible, including considering additional treatment to allow for additional recycled water uses. Key Performance Metric(s): − Amount of recycled water used. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Groundwater sustainability indicators: chronic lowering of groundwater levels; reduction in storage; seawater intrusion; degraded quality; land subsidence; surface water depletion. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − Existing development − New development − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Applicability − Contra Costa Health − Central Contra Costa Sanitary District − Contra Costa Water District − East Bay Municipal Utility District − Groundwater Sustainability Agencies (GSAs): − City of Antioch GSA − City of Brentwood GSA − Byron-Bethany Irrigation District GSA − Contra Costa County GSA − Diablo Water District GSA − Discovery Bay GSA − East Contra Costa Irrigation District GSA − EBMUD GSA − Zone 7 GSA − West County Wastewater District − Other water and wastewater service providers 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 161 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME Time Frame Mid-term (by 2028) Clean Transportation Network: Contra Costa County’s transportation network provides safe and accessible options for walking, biking, and transit. If residents and workers are driving, they are in zero-emission vehicles. TR-1: Improve the viability of walking, biking, zero- emission commuting, and using public transit for travel within, to, and from the county. − Prioritize expansion of bicycle, micromobility, and pedestrian infrastructure (e.g., Class IV separated bikeways) to address the significant latent demand for these active transportation modes. (TR-P1.2) − Develop and promote mobility alternatives to single-occupancy vehicles, including but not limited to public transit, micromobility, carbon-free rideshare strategies, and nonmotorized modes. (TR- A1.1) − Implement programs to encourage transit use, bicycling, walking, telecommuting, and use of alternative vehicle fuels by County employees. (TR-A1.4) − Reduce single-occupant vehicle usage and VMT, by significantly enhancing the availability and safety of other travel modes through infrastructure investment, policy support (Vision Zero, and other best practices), and support for public transit. (TR-P1.4) − Plan, design, construct, and maintain facilities for walking, bicycling, and rolling to serve people of all ages, abilities, and income levels, including children, seniors, families, and people with limited mobility. (TR-P5.1) − Partner with CCTA and neighboring jurisdictions to build out the countywide bicycle and pedestrian network, prioritizing completion of the Low-Stress Countywide Bicycle Network and pedestrian safety improvement projects in the County's Pedestrian Priority Key Performance Metric(s): − Percentage complete and under construction of unincorporated bicycle network. (Public Works) − Linear feet of pedestrian facilities constructed. (Public Works) − Number of bicycle and pedestrian network gaps closed. (Public Works) − Measure progress on the County Road Improvement and Preservation Program (CRIPP); Complete Streets; Vision Zero; Active Transportation; and equity- focused plans, programs, and policies. (Public Works) − Number of new units (residential and commercial) located in transit priority areas. (Conservation and Development) − Number of new units of affordable housing, particularly in areas with high-quality transit. (Conservation and Development) − Transit ridership in County service areas. (Conservation and Development) − Number of employers operating transportation demand programs. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): For County Operations: − Number of employees participating in the County remote work policy. (Human Resources) − Number and percentage of County employees using the pre-tax commute benefit. (Human Resources) Potential Partners − 511 Contra Costa − BAAQMD − CCTA − Environmental justice groups − MTC/ABAG − Transit providers − Local communities − California State Association of Counties − Advocacy organizations − East Bay Leadership Council − Safe Routes to School programs Applicability − County operations − Existing development − New development − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Long term (by 2030) Chapter 6 162 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME Areas, as described in the Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan. (TR-A5.1) − Construct innovative bicycle and pedestrian facilities, including Class IV separated and protected bikeways, bicycle superhighways, and other low-stress facility types, as described in the Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan and in contemporary, best-practice transportation planning and engineering guidance. Use contextually appropriate green infrastructure and landscaping to separate vehicular lanes from bicycle and pedestrian facilities whenever feasible. (TR-A5.2) − Require transportation infrastructure serving new development to be designed using best practices, contemplating existing and planned land uses, roadways, bicycle and pedestrian facilities, transit facilities, and connections to adjoining areas. (TR-P4.2) − Create connections between unincorporated communities and neighborhoods in unincorporated areas and adjacent jurisdictions to improve multimodal access to local destinations, such as schools, parks, shopping, health services, and workplaces. (TR-P4.3) − Track over time projects that add pedestrian and bicycle facilities to document the County’s implementation of the County Road Improvement and Preservation Program (CRIPP); Complete Streets checklist; Vision Zero Report and Action Plan; Active Transportation Plan; and equity-focused plans, programs, and policies. − Improve the safety and comfort of bicycle, pedestrian, and public transit facilities using best practices to encourage more people to use such facilities. − Work with CCTA to fill gaps in the countywide Low-Stress Bike Network, as outlined in the 2018 Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan. Prioritize providing access for Impacted Communities and constructing protected bicycle facilities. Coordinate with Caltrans, CCTA, the Regional Transportation Planning Committees, and neighboring jurisdictions to plan, design, − Administrative Bulletin supporting videoconference and conference calls, where appropriate. (County Administrator) − Updated CRIPP Project list. (Public Works) − Grant awards for transportation projects that support 2024 CAP2024 CAAP goals (number and amount). (Public Works, Conservation and Development) 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 163 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME and implement Complete Street concepts on Routes of Regional Significance. − In collaboration with key partners, support efforts to establish or join a shared mobility program that provides access to conventional bicycle, e-bikes, and other micromobility modes, prioritizing access for low-income residents who do not have bicycles. Support efforts to establish and/or maintain bike repair programs. − Support efforts to expand the service area and frequency of regional transit agencies, and reduced fares for students, seniors, and low-income residents on systems, including AC Transit, BART, Capitol Corridor, County Connection, Tri Delta Transit, the San Francisco Bay Ferry, and WestCAT. Encourage programs that support "last mile" transportation connection and options. − Maximize development of jobs and affordable housing near high- quality transit service to support a jobs-housing balance. − Market the county’s Northern Waterfront to attract innovative companies with jobs for residents. − Maintain in place and enforce a Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Ordinance that reflects best practices, and, at a minimum, conforms to Contra Costa Transportation Authority’s adopted model TDM ordinance or resolution. (GM-P3.5) − Improve county-wide safety for bicyclists by advocating for the passage of Vulnerable Road User Laws. − Secure additional funding for the maintenance and expansion of bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure improvements. Support efforts to obtain additional funding to maintain and expand public transit operations and infrastructure improvements. − Support CCTA to develop and implement methods for tracking EV and e-bike charging and availability across jurisdictions. − Support CCTA and regional transit agencies in providing “last mile” transportation connections and options. Chapter 6 164 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − Encourage and support increased regional integration of transit systems to promote more equitable fare structures, fare integration, easier transfers, including coordinated transfers between different transit systems and reduced wait times, improved information sharing, and generally a more seamless and modern system. − Ensure emerging transportation technologies and travel options, such as autonomous and ZEVs and transportation network companies, support the County's goals for reducing emissions, adapting to climate change, improving public safety, and increasing equitable mobility. (TR-P1.3) TR-2: Increase the use of zero-emissions vehicles. Transition to a zero-emission County fleet by 2035 and a community fleet that is at least 50 percent zero-emission by 2030. − Require new County vehicles to be zero emission to the extent a viable vehicle is available on the market, that charging or zero- emission fueling equipment is conveniently located where the vehicle will be stored, and as required by the Advanced Clean Fleet regulations, with the goal that all County vehicles will be zero- emission by 2035. − Continue adopting new or modified reach codes and consider future updates that exceed the California Building Code as the State updates the Building Code, including the Green Building Code, to require zero-emission charging infrastructure in new multifamily and nonresidential buildings. Explore expanding it to include new single-family homes (Supported by TR-P1.12 and TR- A1.12). − Install electric vehicle charging equipment and other infrastructure needed to support the transition to a zero-emission County fleet at Potential Partners − BAAQMD − Contra Costa Transportation Authority − Environmental justice groups − MCE − Multifamily and rental property owners − TNC and taxi providers − BART − Caltrans − East Bay Leadership Council Applicability − County operations − Existing development − New development − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 165 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME County facilities. Consider the appropriate locations, number, and capacity of infrastructure to facilitate the transition of the County fleet to zero-emission vehicles. − Provide incentives for zero-emission vehicles in partnership with MCE, BAAQMD, and other agencies. − Work with property owners and other potential partners to pursue installation of zero-emission vehicle charging stations in and near multifamily dwelling units. − Update off-street parking ordinance to include a requirement for zero-emission vehicle charging infrastructure. Consider including incentives for developers to exceed minimum requirements (i.e., density bonus). − Increase installation of electric vehicle charging stations for all vehicle types, including bicycles and scooters, at public facilities, emphasizing increased installation in Impacted Communities. − In partnership with regional agencies, explore providing subsidies for households making less than the area median income to purchase or lease zero-emission vehicles and associated infrastructure. − Pursue fees and regulatory efforts to convert transportation network company (TNC), taxi, and similar car-hire services to zero- emission vehicles. − Explore opportunities for implementing electric vehicle sharing programs. − Work with BAAQMD and other regional agencies to convert off- road equipment to zero-emission clean fuels. − Work with contractors, fleet operations, logistics companies, and other operators of heavy-duty vehicles to accelerate the transition to zero-emission heavy-duty vehicles. − In cases where battery electric, hybrid, electric, and sustainable sourced hydrogen fuel cells are not available, Wwork with Public Works to pursue the use of renewable natural gas (sourced from recovered organic waste) for transportation fuel, electricity, or Key Performance Metric(s): − Number of zero-emission vehicles registered in unincorporated county. (Conservation and Development) − Percentage of County fleet that is zero-emission. (Public Works) − Implementation of an EV sharing program (Conservation and Development) − Number of electric vehicle charging ports installed at County facilities for County fleet and public use. (Public Works) − Number of EV ready parking spaces and EV charging stations installed with new development. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Number of zero-emission vehicles purchased annually for County fleet. (Public Works) − Number of EV chargers installed at County facilities, both for County fleet and public use. (Public Works) − Number of publicly accessible EV chargers installed throughout the unincorporated county. (Conservation and Development) Time Frame Ongoing Chapter 6 166 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME heating applications in cases where battery-electric, hybrid-electric, and sustainably sourced hydrogen fuel-cell sources are not available. − Encourage efforts to maximize EV charging during solar peak hours. − Continue to host events such as the Electric Vehicle and E-Bike Show to educate and empower County staff and community members about zero-emission vehicles. − Coordinate with CCTA and other local and regional agencies to Ssupport implementation of the Contra Costa County Electric Vehicle Readiness Blueprint and related policies and apply best practices in ZEV charging/fueling infrastructure requirements. (TR- A1.11). Resilient Communities and Natural Infrastructure: Contra Costa County will increase resilience to climate hazards and foster community health. NI-1: Protect against and adapt to changes in sea levels and other shoreline flooding conditions. − Require new development to locate habitable areas of buildings above the highest water level expected accounting for sea level rise and other changes in flood conditions, or construct natural and nature-based features, or a levee, if necessary, adequately designed to protect the project for its expected life. (HS-P6.1) − Support the use of natural infrastructure, including ecosystem restoration and green infrastructure, to protect against sea level rise and associated shoreline flooding. − Coordinate with State and regional agencies, neighboring jurisdictions, property owners, utilities, and others to prepare a sea level rise adaptation plan. − Seek funding and pursue implementation of wetland restoration and other adaptation efforts for sea level rise. Key Performance Metric(s): − Establish a shoreline flooding working group. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Develop effective tracking metrics. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − Existing development − New development Applicability − San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission − Delta Stewardship Council − Shoreline communities − Irrigation districts − Community-based organizations − Land Trusts Time Frame Long term (by 2030) 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 167 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − Convene a working group that includes local jurisdictions, local shoreline communities, community-based organizations, property owners, businesses, and other stakeholders to collaborate on shoreline flooding adaptation strategies. − Identify opportunities for employing natural areas as buffers against rising sea levels. NI-2: Protect against and adapt to increases in the frequency and intensity of wildfire events. − Deny applications for subdivisions creating additional residential lots in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones. Discourage such subdivisions in High Fire Hazard Severity Zones unless adequate fire protection services are providedProhibit new residential subdivisions in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones and discourage residential subdivisions in High Fire Hazard Severity Zones. (HS-P7.1) − Require any construction of buildings or infrastructure within a High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone in the Local or State Responsibility Areas, or in areas that may be designated as the Wildland-Urban Interface, to incorporate fire-safe design features that meet the applicable State Fire Safe Regulations and Hazard Reduction Around Buildings and Structures Regulations for road ingress and egress, fire equipment access, and adequate water supply. (HS-P7.2) − Require subdivisions in the High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the Local or State Responsibility Areas, or projects requiring a land use permit in the High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the Local or State Responsibility Areas, to complete a site-specific fire protection plan. Collaborate Work with the appropriate fire protection district to review and revise the fire protection plans. (HS-P7.34) Key Performance Measure(s): − Amount of funds distributed for wildfire mitigation efforts. (Contra Costa Fire Protection District and other fire protection entities) − Miles of power lines undergrounded. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. − County operations − Existing development − New development − Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services Applicability − Community-based organizations − Contra Costa County Fire Protection District − Facility operators (school districts, libraries, community centers, etc.) − Kensington Fire Protection District − Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District − Moraga-Orinda Fire District − San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District − Medical service providers Chapter 6 168 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − Work with property owners in mapped High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones or in areas that may be designated as the Wildland-Urban Interface, to establish and maintain fire breaks and defensible space, vegetation clearance, and firefighting infrastructure that meets adopted State, County, or community fire safety standards. (HS-P7.45) − Support undergrounding of utility lines, Coordinate with energy service providers to underground power lines, especially in the WUI and High and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones. (HS-P7.108) − Review indoor air filtration standards and consider whether filtration requirements can and should be strengthened for projects permitted by the County. − Work with community organizations to help Impacted Communities have access to financing and other resources to reduce the fire risk on their property, prepare for wildfire events, and allow for a safe and speedy recovery. − 211 − Red Cross Time Frame Long term (by 2030) NI-3: Establish and maintain community resilience hubs. − Pursue funding to develop a resilience hub master plan that identifies existing community facilities that can serve as resilience hubs and support affected populations during hazard events. This process should start with an assessment of community needs. Such facilities should be distributed equitably throughout the county, with an emphasis on easy access for Impacted Communities. Where appropriate facilities do not exist, develop plans to create new resilience hubs. (Supported by HS-P8.1) − Pursue funding to implement the resilience hub master plan, including retrofitting selected facilities to function as resilience hubs. These retrofits should involve adding solar panels, battery backup systems, water resources, air filtration, supplies to meet Key Performance Measure(s): − Adopted plan for community resilience hubs. (Conservation and Development) − Number of community resilience hubs. (Conservation and Development) − Number of permits issued for battery storage projects. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − Community-based organizations − Contra Costa County Fire Protection District − Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services − Employment and Human Services − Environmental justice organizations − Facility operators (school districts, libraries, community centers, childcare facilities, etc.) 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 169 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME basic community and emergency medical needs, and other needs as identified by the resilience hub master plan. − Create a virtual resilience hub that connects County resources to communities through virtual community networks to provide detailed, up-to-date information about preparing for natural disasters, public safety notifications and alerts, space for virtual gathering and information-sharing, and other appropriate uses. Materials shall be accessible in multiple languages. − Coordinate resilience hub activities with planning efforts around public safety power shutoffs and wildfire smoke resiliency. − Jurisdictional fire departments − Homeless service providers − Medical service providers − 211 − Contra Costa County Office of Education − Local school districts − Red Cross Applicability − County operations − Residents in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Mid-term (by 2028) NI-4: Sequester carbon on natural and working lands in Contra Costa County. − Pursue implementation of recommendations from carbon sequestration feasibility study, Healthy Lands, Healthy People. − Continue to support and work with key partners to maintain existing and establish new pilot programs for carbon sequestration on agricultural land. − Promote restorativeregenerative agricultural and landscaping techniques that incorporate cover crops, mulching, compost application, field borders, alley cropping, conservation crop rotation, prescribed grazing, and reduced tillage to promote healthy soil and soil conservation. (Supported by COS-P2.11) − Support soil conservation and restoration programs. Encourage agricultural landowners to work with agencies such as the USDA’s Key Performance Metric(s): − Completed feasibility study for carbon sequestration in Contra Costa County. (Conservation and Development) Completed 2023 Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Number of completed pilot carbon farming project(s). − Progress report on implementation of County’s Green Infrastructure Plan for County facilities. (Public Works) − Quantity of SB 1383-compliant compost procured and utilized by the County directly or on the County’s behalf. (Public Works, Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − Contra Costa County Integrated Pest Management Advisory Committee − Agricultural groups − Community gardening groups − Community-based organizations − Contra Costa Resource Conservation District − East Bay Regional Park District − Save Mount Diablo, John Muir Land Trust, and other Chapter 6 170 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME NRCS and Contra Costa RCD to reduce erosion and soil loss. (COS- P2.10) − Coordinate with farming groups, ranchers, the Contra Costa Resource Conservation District, and the University of California Cooperative Extension to identify and promote varieties of feedstock, livestock, and crops that are resilient to rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns and that increase carbon sequestration. − Explore ways to increase carbon sequestration on County-owned facilitiesproperties. − Partner with regional landowners and agencies to establish carbon sequestration programs and incentives. − Consider the development of carbon offset protocols and guidance for future use byto provide technical support to carbon sequestration program applicants and County permitting staff to promote appropriate natural sequestration on natural and developed lands. − Ensure that any local or regional carbon sequestration program that the County establishes, promotes, supports, or joins must provide benefits to unincorporated communities that face environmental justice issues. − Explore the potential for the public to support tree planting and maintenance of existing trees. (Supported by COS-P6.2) − Establish a mechanism to support expanded tree planting and maintenance activities, particularly in areas with few trees. − Support protection, restoration, and enhancement of creeks, wetlands, marshes, sloughs, and tidelands, and emphasize the role of these features in climate change resilience, air and water quality, and wildlife habitat. (COS-P5.1) − Inventory wetlands, floodplains, marshlands, natural watercourses, riparian corridors, and adjacent lands that could potentially support climate adaptation (e.g., through flood management, − Progress in meeting recommendations from the 2023 Healthy Lands, Healthy People carbon sequestration feasibility study. (Conservation and Development) land conservation organizations. − Environmental justice organizations − Organizations that support regenerative landscaping and agriculture. − Regional landowners − UC Cooperative Extension − Contra Costa Health Applicability − County operations − East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy − Natural and working lands − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Long term (by 2030) 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 171 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME filtration, or other beneficial ecosystem services) and mitigation (e.g., carbon sequestration). (COS-A5.1) − Encourage and support conservation of natural lands outside the urban limit line in the unincorporated county. − Explore the new funding and financing opportunities for climate adaptation and resilience projects, including the creation of a Climate Resilience District, issuance of green bonds as a potential financing mechanism, and similar opportunities. − Require that any mitigation of air quality impacts occur on-site to the extent feasible to provide the greatest benefit to local residents in unincorporated communities. For mitigation that relies on offsets, require that the offsets be obtained from sources as near to the project site as possible or from sources that would improve air quality in an Impacted Community. If the project site is within or adjacent to an Impacted Community, require offsets or mitigation within that community unless determined infeasible by the County (HS-P1.6). NI-5: Minimize heat island effects through the use of cool roofs, and green infrastructure, tree canopy, cool paint and pavement, and other emerging strategies. − Require landscaping for new development to be drought-tolerant, filter and retain runoff and support flood management and groundwater recharge. (COS-P7.7) − Promote installation of drought-tolerant green infrastructure, including street trees, in landscaped public areas. (COS-P7.8) − Increase tree planting in urbanized areas, and open spaces where ecologically appropriate, emphasizing areas with limited existing tree cover, using low-maintenance native tree species that are low Key Performance Metric(s): − Number of permits for cool roofs, both private and County facilities. (Conservation and Development) − Adoption of aan Urban Forest Management Plan, or Tree Master Plan. (Conservation ahd Development, Public Works) − Percent of heat-vulnerable communities with tree cover / number of new tree plantings. (Public Works) − Square feet of pervious pavers installed. (Public Works) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Number of ER visits, deaths, and associated clinical care related to extreme heat events. (Health) Potential Partners − Community-based organizations − Community gardening groups − Environmental justice organizations − Organizations that support regenerative landscaping and agriculture. − Water and wastewater service providers − Contra Costa Health and related partners Chapter 6 172 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME fire risk and ensuring water supply resources are not compromised. (Supported by COS-P6.2) − Consider preparing and implementing an Urban Forest Management Plan, or Tree Master Plan for the unincorporated county. − Provide shade trees or shade structures at parks, plazas, and other outdoor spaces. − Update When updating the County tree ordinances that relate to trees and green infrastructure, to consider whether factors for approval of tree removal, planting, and/or replanting requirements are adequately consideringpromote expansion of the tree canopy and green infrastructure in Impacted Communities (e.g., tree cover, replanting standard). (Supported by TR-A2.2, HS-P2.2, and HS-A2.5) − Support efforts to develop incentive programs for home and business owners, school districts, and other local and regional property owners to increase the adoption of cool roofs, and green infrastructure, and other cooling strategies on private property. − Equity measure rankings on the Healthy Places Index. (Health) − Acres treated by green stormwater infrastructure. (Public Works) − East Bay Regional Park District Applicability − County operations − Existing development − New development − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Midterm (by 2028) 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 173 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME NI-6: Protect communities against additional hazards created or exacerbated by climate change. − Discourage new below-market-rate housing in High and Very High Wildfire Hazard Severity zones, the Wildland-Urban Interface, and Alquist-Priolo Fault Zones. If below-market-rate housing must be constructed within these zones, require it to be hardened or make use of nature-based solutions to remain habitable to the greatest extent possible. (HS-P3.42) − Treat susceptibility to hazards and threats to human health and life as primary considerations when reviewing all development proposals and changes to land uses. − Partner with community-based organizations to provide information to community members about how to prepare for projected climate change hazards. − Promote, and develop as necessary, available funding sources to create incentives for residents and businesses to prepare for natural disasters, particularly members of Impacted Communities. − Consider projected impacts of climate change when siting, designing, and identifying the construction and maintenance costs of capital projects. − Actively promote and expand participation in local and regional community emergency preparedness and response programs. − Support and fund efforts to enhance ongoing community and cross-sector engagement in community-level resilience and cohesion. Support non-government organizations to actively engage in developing a network of community-level actions that enhance resiliency. − Work with energy service providers to promote programs encouraging reduced energy use during extreme heat events. (HS- P8.2) Key Performance Metric(s): − Health outcomes of residents in Impacted Communities relative to the prior performance review. (Health) − Number of substandard homes that pose a health risk to residents in Impacted Communities relative to the prior performance review. (Conservation and Development) − Amount of support provided to businesses in Impacted Communities through the County’s small business assistance programs relative to the prior performance review. (Conservation and Development) − The rate of poverty in Impacted Communities relative to the prior performance review. (Conservation and Development) − Development and use of climate change vulnerability and resilience screening criteria for County capital investment projects. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Number of County-led or -supported outreach and engagement activities in support of emergency preparedness and hazard mitigation. Potential Partners − Community-based organizations − Contra Costa County Fire Protection District − Facility operators (school districts, libraries, community centers, etc.) − Kensington Fire Protection District − Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District − Moraga-Orinda Fire District − San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District − Medical service providers − Contra Costa Health and related partners − 211 − Red Cross − Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services Applicability − County operations − Existing development − New development − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Chapter 6 174 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − Support efforts by East Bay Regional Park District and other local recreation agencies to provide outdoor recreation facilities with adequate shading and refillable water stations where appropriate. (HS-P8.4) Time Frame Near term (by 2026) Climate Equity: Contra Costa County will address environmental factors leading to health disparities, promote safe and livable communities, and promote investments that improve neighborhood accessibility. CE-1: Provide access to affordable, clean, safe, and healthy housing and jobs. − In partnership with community-based organizations, reverse community deterioration and blight and improve personal and property safety in neighborhoods throughout Contra Costa County. − Ensure that new housing for households making less than the area median income and housing for other Impacted Communities are outside of hazard-prone areas, including for wildfires, landslides, floods, and sea level rise, or that they are hardened or make use of nature-based solutions to remain habitable to the greatest extent possible. (HS-P4.3) − In partnership with community-based organizations, secure funding to establish a program to provide low-cost or free air conditioning and filtration, improved insulation, low-emitting materials, energy solar and storage systems, energy efficiency, and indoor ventilation in homes, emphasizing buildings that are home to Impacted Community members. (SC-A6.2, SC-A6.3) − Track development of local micro-grid battery storage policies and systems in other jurisdictions and identify potential opportunities for Contra Costa County. − Encourage companies and entrepreneurs from local universities and national labs to create jobs in such industries as renewable Key Performance Metric(s): − Funds spent by County departments on energy efficiency and other services that support the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan goals in Impacted Communities compared to non-Impacted Communities. (Conservation and Development, Public Works) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Measures of health and social impacts of climate change that can reveal significant disparities and inequities across groups. (Health) Potential Partners − Community-based organizations − Environmental justice groups − Local grocery stores and food banks − Housing developers and contractors − Community colleges, schools, labor unions, and local career skills training programs − Workforce development programs − Workforce Development Boards Applicability − County operations − Existing development − New development − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 175 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME energy, transportation technology, diverse forms of manufacturing, biotech/biomedical, and clean tech. − Partner with local schools, the community college district, community-based organizations, labor unions, Workforce Development Boards, and other appropriate groups to provide training for residents for family-sustaining jobs in sustainable industries. Prioritize training for people currently or recently working in polluting or extractive activities. (SC-P1.1) − Provide support for State and federal programs that support family-sustaining jobs in sustainable industries, efforts to support organized labor, and living wage labor standards. − Adopt an ordinance at least as stringent as the State’s maximum idling laws, and coordinate with CARB and law enforcement to achieve compliance. (HS-A1.5) Time Frame Mid-term (by 2028) CE-2: Invest in solutions to support climate equity. − Evaluate and adjust County planning and expenditures for infrastructure and services as needed to ensure equitable investment in Impacted Communities, consistent with SB 1000. − Work with County departments to incorporate addressing climate change, providing climate solutions, and enhancing community equity more fully into County operations and the broad range of services the County provides. − As part of the 2024 CAP2024 CAAP and General Plan implementation, consider whether the strategy being implemented provides equitable benefits for Impacted Communities as a criterion for prioritization. − Continually engage communities most affected by climate change in developing and implementing climate solutions and ensure that such solutions provide benefits to Impacted Communities. − Advocate for the Contra Costa Employees Retirement Association to include use of Environmental, Social, and Governance criteria in its investment policies. Key Performance Metric(s): − Modified County investment policy to use ESG and to continue to prohibit investment in all securities issued by fossil fuel companies. (County Administrator, Treasurer/Tax Collector) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Number of community engagement opportunities in which County staff participate, including presentations to community groups. − Advocacy for Contra Costa Employees Retirement Association to use ESG in its investment priorities and to offer environmentally and socially responsible investment choices for members. (Board of Supervisors) Potential Partners − Community-based organizations − Contra Costa Employees Retirement Association − Environmental justice groups − School and community college districts − Contra Costa County Library − Business groups − Youth groups Applicability − Impacted Communities − Residents in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Mid-term (by 2028) Chapter 6 176 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − Require that the County’s Deferred Compensation Plan provider make available Environmental, Social, and Governance investment options for employees participating in the County’s 457 deferred compensation plan. − Amend the County investment policy to consider the use of Environmental, Social, and Governance criteria and to continue and improve efforts to divest from fossil fuels. − Work with schools, Contra Costa County Library, business groups, and community-based organizations to educate and inform community members about climate change and related sustainability topics., and the County’s climate goals and the actions the County is taking to achieve them. − Evaluate the issuance of Labeled Bonds, such as “Green”, “Sustainable”, or “Social” bonds, during the planning stage of a bond issuance by the County. It is the County’s preference to issue Labeled Bonds if the evaluation demonstrates a financial or policy benefit to the County. 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 177 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME CE-3: Increase access to parks and open space. − Establish a goal for all residents to live within a half-mile of a park or other green space. − Support land acquisition for new parks and open space areas and protect such lands through fee title acquisition or through deed restrictions like conservation easements. − Continue to construct and develop opportunities for new trails. − Support investment in existing park facilities, in partnership with regional agencies. − Increase the tree canopy on public property, especially in Impacted Communities and areas with a high heat index, by prioritizing funding for new street tree planting and maintenance. (HS-P2.2) Key Performance Metric(s): − Number of residents in unincorporated county, including those in Impacted Communities, within a half-mile of a park or other green space. (Conservation and Development) − Total acres of parks and green space by type. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − Agricultural groups − Contra Costa Resource Conservation District − East Bay Regional Park District − Environmental justice groups − Local land trusts and land conservation groups − Housing developers Applicability − New development − Residents in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Near term (by 2026) CE-4: Ensure residents have equitable, year-round access to affordable, local fresh food. − Support establishment of year-round Certified Farmers’ Markets in all communities, prioritizing Impacted Communities. − Work with community groups to establish and maintain urban gardens, particularly on vacant lots and park land in Impacted Communities. (SC-P4.1) − Encourage major supermarkets to locate in Impacted Communities. − Support co-operative grocery markets in Impacted Communities. Key Performance Metric(s): − Number of regular Certified Farmers’ Markets in all communities and in Impacted Communities. (Agriculture) − Number of permits issued for urban gardens in all communities (if permits are required by policy). (Agriculture) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Number of residents participating in In Lieu of Services (ILOS) food benefits. (Health) Potential Partners − Agricultural groups − Community gardening groups − Environmental justice groups − Farmers markets − Local grocery stores and food banks Applicability − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Chapter 6 178 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME Time Frame Long term (by 2030) CE-5: Ensure that large industrial facilities act as good neighbors. − Provide recommendations to responsible permit agencies regarding permits for fossil fuel-based industries and point sources Provide comments to responsible permit agencies on permit applications for large industrial facilities with significant emissions on potential measures to reduce impacts on and provide benefits to neighboring unincorporated communities.. − Regularly track data on fossil fuel production and transportation in Contra Costa County. − Encourage the economic development of industries and supply chains that emphasize a reduction in GHG emissions. − Encourage economic development and job creation in industries that advance the County’s sustainability goals, using the County’s policy on enhanced infrastructure financing districts. − As economic conditions change, support efforts to phase out heavily polluting and extractive industries and replace them with businesses that contribute to a regenerative and circular economy. − Require new or expanded commercial and industrial projects exceeding resulting in 25,000 square feet or more of gross habitable floor area to be near zero-emission operations, including the facilities themselves and the associated fleets, except for uses with fewer than five vehicles domiciled on-site. Require all necessary measures to achieve near-zero emissions. (HS-P1.8) Key Performance Metric(s): − Quantity and type of fossil fuels produced, refined, stored in, and distributed in the unincorporated county, to the extent data are available. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Information on specific fossil fuel facilities in Contra Costa County, including changes of ownership, mergers and acquisitions, investor presentations and reports, or any other public information that may indicate a facility's interest or intent to expand in the future, considering broader market trends in oil and gas refining and export in the Bay Area. (Conservation and Development) − Local air quality metrics. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − BAAQMD − CARB − Chambers of Commerce − East Bay Leadership Council − Community-based organizations − Environmental justice groups − Industry groups − Labor unions Applicability − Industrial operations − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Ongoing and near term (by 2026) 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 179 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME Leadership Strategies: Contra Costa County is a model for how local government can take action on climate issues. L-1: Establish Contra Costa County as a leader among local governments for addressing climate issues. − Continue to publicize and support the operations of the County's Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force and Green Government Group (G3) Champions. − Work with all County departments to encourage adoption of best practices from the County's Green Business Program and other practices that support the County’s climate goals. − Encourage development of new policies and initiatives that support the County’s climate goals. − Explore the creation of funding mechanisms, including a carbon impact fee, to support the County’s Sustainability Fund for investments in County facilities if additional financial resources are needed. − Support legislative efforts to establish a green bank able to equitably finance sustainability projects, including renewable energy, energy efficiency, and green infrastructure, for residential and commercial customers. (COS-A14.910) − Ensure that funding mechanisms to address climate change minimize or avoid disproportionate financial impacts to Impacted Communities and do not exacerbate economic inequities to the extent feasible. − Facilitate trainings for County staff on climate change (including the results of the Vulnerability Assessment and the 2024 CAP2024 Key Performance Metric(s): − Ongoing work products and semi-annual reports from Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force. (Conservation and Development) − Annual report on conditions placed on discretionary projects to ensure support of Climate Action and Adaptation Plan goals. (Conservation and Development) − Number of County departments that have adopted their own Climate Action Plan, or adopted practices that support the CAAP. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Number of County departments adopting best practices of the Green Business Program. (Conservation and Development) − Trainings and other information for County staff on climate change. (Conservation and Development) − Amount of pesticides applied to County properties. (Public Works, Health (IPM)) − Number of County facilities with an active integrated pest management plan. (Public Works, Health (IPM)) Potential Partners − All County departments − Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force − Community-based organizations − Green Business Program − Contra Costa County Library Applicability − County operations − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Ongoing and midterm (by 2028) Chapter 6 180 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME CAAP technical work) and how they can support climate action through their work with the County and at home. − Encourage County employees to explore innovative technologies and programs that address climate change. − Incorporate integrated pest management into new construction and retrofit programs on County properties. − Ensure County departments follow the County’s Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Policy and policy requirements are included in the contracting process. − Regularly review and revise the County’s purchasing and contracting programs as necessary to ensure consistency with the County’s sustainability and GHG reduction goals. (HS-A3.23) L-2: Continue to recognize the climate crisis as an emergency for Contra Costa County and make addressing climate change a top County priority. − Continue to implement the 2020 Climate Emergency Resolution approved by the Board of Supervisors, including conducting periodic reviews and updates to the Resolution. − Consider climate vulnerabilities and associated equity effects as factors in the County’s planning and expenditures for infrastructure and services to increase resilience and reduce GHG emissions countywide. − Consider development standards for the disclosure of climate and equity effects and vulnerabilities in staff reports for all decisions by the Board of Supervisors when such disclosures are helpful and necessary. Explore modifying County processes and forms to include questions to ensure the proposed action is consistent with the 2024 CAP2024 CAAP and equity goals. − Assess County programs, policies, operations, and projects (excluding stationary sources) for their contribution to achieving the County’s GHG emissions reduction goals and consistency with the 2024 CAP2024 CAAP. Key Performance Metric(s): − Actions taken to implement Climate Emergency Resolution. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − All County departments − Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force − Community-based organizations − Local environmental groups Applicability − County operations Time Frame Mid-term (by 2028) 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 181 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − Disclose GHG emissions to a registry such as the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP). Implementation Strategies: Contra Costa County will ensure it follows through to achieve the goals and actions in this Climate Action and Adaptation Plan. IS-1: Monitor and report progress toward achieving Climate Action and Adaptation Plan goals on an annual basis. − Assign responsibility for facilitating and supporting 2024 CAAP implementation to the County's Department of Conservation and Development. − Identify key staff from each department responsible for supporting 2024 CAAP implementation and updates for annual reporting and monitoring. − Continue to involve community-based organizations and other key stakeholders in reviewing and recommending 2024 CAAP action items. − Continue to prepare an annual progress report on implementation of the recommended GHG emissions reduction strategies and progress toward the 2024 CAAP goals. When information is available, provide updates on estimated GHG emissions reductions and current GHG emissions levels. − Monitor implementation of the Sustainability Fund for projects in County facilities − Use the 2024 CAAP implementation and monitoring tool to track GHG benefits from 2024 CAAP implementation and identify progress toward the 2024 CAAP reduction goals. − Pursue refinements to improve the County permitting system and other systems as needed to support collection of 2024 CAAP implementation data. − Work with Contra Costa Health on exploring, and if appropriate, developing health indicators related to climate change to help Key Performance Metric(s): − Preparation of Annual Report and presentation to Sustainability Commission and Board of Supervisors. (Conservation and Development) − Dedicated funding in annual budget for implementation of the 2024 CAAP. (County Administrator) − Regularly maintained 2024 CAAP tracking tool. (Conservation and Development) − Updates to County permitting system to support tracking of 2024 CAAP implementation. (Conservation and Development) − Sustainability Fund progress report. (Public Works) Potential Partners − All County departments − Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force − Sustainability Commission Applicability − County operations − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Ongoing and near term (by 2026) Chapter 6 182 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME inform progress on current actions and effectiveness of adaptation strategies. IS-2: Continue collaborative partnerships with agencies and community groups that support Climate Action and Adaptation Plan implementation, with an emphasis on residents and community-based organizations from Impacted Communities. − Participate in local and regional organizations that provide tools and support for energy efficiency, energy conservation, GHG emissions reductions, sustainable infrastructure development, adaptation, public information, and implementation of this 2024 CAAP. − Enable effective partnerships to implement high-priority strategies from the 2024 CAAP by working through established interagency collaborations and joint exercise of powers authorities and forming new arrangements of various types where necessary to be effective. − Provide input to partner agencies on policy barriers that need to be addressed at the State level. − Continue collaboration with other local governments in Contra Costa County on climate action and related subjects, including an annual Sustainability Exchange meeting of all local government staff in Contra Costa County that focus on climate action and adaptation planning and implementation. Key Performance Metric(s): − Partnerships maintained. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − All County departments − Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force − Sustainability Commission − Agency partners − Community-based organizations Applicability − County operations − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Near term (by 2026) 6. Realizing the 2024 CAAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 183 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME IS-3: Secure necessary funding to implement the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan. − Identify funding sources and levels for reduction strategies as part of annual reporting. − Include GHG emissions reduction strategies in the capital improvement programs for County-owned and managed facilities and infrastructure, and other plans as appropriate. − Pursue local, regional, state, and federal grants to support implementation. − Explore dedicated funding sources for 2024 CAAP implementation, including from the Sustainability Fund or other revenue sources as needed. − Explore opportunities to allocate a portion of revenues from revenue-generating strategies in the 2024 CAAP to its implementation. Key Performance Metric(s): − Climate action integration into all department work plans and capital improvement program. (County Administrator, Public Works) − Number of grants and amount of funding being pursued, awarded, and managed. (Conservation and Development) − Funding provided for the Sustainability Fund. (County Administrator) Potential Partners − All County departments − Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force − Agency partners Applicability − County operations − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Ongoing and near term (by 2026) IS-4: Continue to update the baseline emissions inventory and Climate Action and Adaptation Plan every five years. − Prepare a GHG emissions inventory that shows GHG emissions after emergency conditions created by the COVID-19 pandemic are expected to have ended. Update the community-wide GHG emissions inventory every five years at a minimum and more frequently as resources are available. Prepare an inventory for the 2024 calendar year within a year of adoption of the 2024 CAAP. − Update the 2024 CAAP to incorporate new technologies, practices, and other options to further reduce emissions. (HS-A3.1) Key Performance Metric(s): − Updated GHG inventories every five years. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − All County departments − Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force Applicability − County operations − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Timeframe Mid-term (by 2028) Chapter 6 184 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME IS-5: Maintain and update the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan to allow for greater resilience. − Coordinate, where possible, updates of the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan, General Plan Safety Element, and Local Hazard Mitigation Plan cycles to ensure plan alignment and coordination of climate mitigation and adaptation efforts. − Assess the implementation status and effectiveness of adaptation strategies. Key Performance Metric(s): − Progress on implementing GHG emissions reduction strategies, climate adaptation strategies, and general sustainability strategies. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − All County departments − Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force Applicability − County operations − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Near term (by 2026) CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 185 7. GLOSSARY 7. Glossary Adaptation. Making changes in response to current or future conditions (such as the increased frequency and intensity of climate-related hazards), usually to reduce harm and to take advantage of new opportunities.16,17 Adaptive capacity. The “combination of the strengths, attributes, and resources available to an individual, community, society, or organization that can be used to prepare for and undertake actions to reduce adverse impacts, moderate harm, or exploit beneficial opportunities”.18 Assets. A valued feature of a community that may be harmed by climate change. Assets may include buildings, infrastructure, community services, ecosystems, and economic drivers.19 Bay-friendly landscaping. A holistic approach to landscaping that works with the natural conditions of the San Francisco Bay Watershed. Bay-friendly practices foster soil health and conserve water and other valuable resources while reducing waste and preventing pollution. Carbon-free energy. Means that the energy supplied by a resource generates no carbon emissions. Carbon neutral. Reducing GHG emissions released to the atmosphere to zero over a period of time, either by entirely eliminating all GHG emissions or by balancing out all remaining GHG emissions through carbon removal practices so that the "net" emissions are zero. Carbon offsets. A reduction or removal of emissions of carbon dioxide or other GHGs made to compensate for emissions made elsewhere. Carbon sequestration. The process of storing carbon dioxide in locations other than the atmosphere, where it cannot contribute to climate change or ocean acidification. For the purposes of this plan, carbon sequestration refers to nature-based carbon removal through the storage of atmospheric carbon in vegetation, soils, woody products, and aquatic environments.20 Climate change. A change in the state of the climate that can be identified by changes in the mean and/or the variability of its properties, and that persists for an extended period, typically decades or longer. In the context of this plan, refers to changes brought on by human activities.21,22 Chapter 7 186 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 Climate justice. The concept that no group of people should disproportionately bear the burden of climate change impacts or the costs of mitigation and adaptation.23 Climate Resilience Districts. Special districts that can raise and allocate money to fund projects and operations that address climate change adaptation efforts, such as those to help protect against sea level rise, wildfire, and drought. They have the authority to establish special taxes, assessments, or other charges. Local governments may establish climate resilience districts under Assembly Bill 852, adopted in 2022. Community-wide. Operative throughout the whole community. Complete streets. A transportation facility that is planned, designed, constructed, operated, and maintained to provide comfortable and convenient mobility, and improve accessibility and connectivity to essential community destinations for all users, regardless of whether they are travelling as pedestrians, bicyclists, public transportation riders, or drivers. Complete streets are especially attuned to the needs of people walking, using assistive mobility devices, rolling, biking, and riding transit.24 Direct access: Electricity purchased directly from an Electric Service Provider (ESP) rather than an investor-owned utility company or Community Choice Energy provider, generally to power large industrial, commercial, and institutional facilities. Electric Service Provider (ESP): An entity that is not a utility company, but provides electricity service to specific customers (usually large industrial, commercial, or institutional sites) within a utility’s service area. This service is often known as direct access electricity. ESPs are overseen by Sstate regulators. Electric vehicle. A zero-emission vehicle that uses electricity stored in a battery to power one or more electric motors and can be plugged in at home, work, fleet, or public charging stations.25 Embeddodied carbon (also known as emboedided carbon). The total GHGs emitted in the production and use of a good or service. For example, the lifecycle GHG emissions of building materials would include emissions resulting from the extraction, manufacturing, transportation, installation, maintenance, and disposal of the materials. Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG). The implementation of a governance structure and reporting system that evaluates a company's performance related to environmental and social factors that go beyond the company’s duty to maximize profits. Environmental metrics may include how well a company performs related to conserving energy, water, and other natural resources, protecting ecosystems and biodiversity, 7. Glossary Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 187 reducing carbon emissions, mitigating climate change, and promoting resilience. Social metrics include factors such as whether a company is union friendly, provides fair pay and leave, prioritizes worker health and safety, and proactively seeks a diverse workforce. Governance refers to how the company manages both the environmental and social aspects of its policies, programs, and reporting.26 Equity. The state in which each individual or group is allocated the resources needed to reach an equal outcome.27,28 Exposure. The presence of people, infrastructure, natural systems, and economic, cultural, and social resources in areas that are subject to harm.29 Extreme event. When a weather or climate variable exceeds the upper or lower thresholds of its observed range.30,31 Extreme heat. Temperatures that are hotter than 98 percent of the historical high temperatures for the area, as measured between April and October of 1961 to 1990. Across Contra Costa County, the extreme heat threshold is 96.6°F, although it varies from 87.1°F in Kensington to 102.4°F in Byron. Fire hazard severity zone. An area of significant fire hazard based on fuels, terrain, weather, and other relevant hazards.32 First mile, last mile. Refers to the first or final mile of a trip, typically between the origin/final destination of the trip and the nearest public transit access point. Graywater. Untreated wastewater that has not been contaminated by toilet discharge; affected by infectious, contaminated, or unhealthy bodily wastes; and does not present a threat from contamination by unhealthful processing, manufacturing, or operating wastes.33 Green bond. A green bond is a bond intended to finance projects with environmental benefits, such as renewable energy, public transportation, and pollution prevention and remediation. Green infrastructure. Infrastructure that filters and absorbs stormwater where it falls. The federal Water Infrastructure Improvement Act (2019) defines green infrastructure as "the range of measures that use plant or soil systems, permeable pavement or other permeable surfaces or substrates, stormwater harvest and reuse, or landscaping to store, infiltrate, or evapotranspirate stormwater and reduce flows to sewer systems or to surface waters".34 Chapter 7 188 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 Greenhouse gas(es). Greenhouse gases (GHGs) are gases that allow sunlight to pass through but reflect heat radiated from the Earth’s surface, trapping heat in the lower atmosphere. Common GHGs include water vapor, carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O). They may be emitted by natural or human processes. Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions inventory. A quantified list of a community’s GHG emissions and sources.35 Hazard. An event or physical condition that has the potential to cause fatalities, injuries, property damage, infrastructure damage, agricultural losses, damage to the environment, interruption of business, or other types of harm or loss.36 Hazard mitigation. Sustained action taken to reduce or eliminate the long-term risk to human life and property through actionby means of efforts that reduce hazard, exposure, and vulnerability.37 Impact (Climate impact). The effects (especially the negative effects) of a hazard or other conditions associated with climate change.38 Impacted Communities. Low-income areas that are disproportionately affected by environmental pollution and other hazards that can lead to negative health effects, exposure, or environmental degradation. Senate Bill (SB) 1000 labels such communities “disadvantaged communities”, but county residents found that this term was neither supportive nor reflective of their community and opted for the term Impacted Communities instead. SB 1000 defines Impacted Communities per Health and Safety Code Section 39711, specifying CalEnviroScreen as the primary screening method for identifying Impacted Communities. In general, census tracts in the highest quartile of scores (75 to 100) are considered Impacted Communities under SB 1000. Just Transition. Refers to the transition away from the extractive, profit-driven economy and culture to one that is ecologically sustainable, just, and equitable for all members of society. A central theme of the Just Transition is moving away from fossil fuels to renewable energy and the need to create sustainable green jobs for workers, particularly those in the fossil fuel industry. Low-carbon building. Buildings designed and constructed to release little to no carbon over their lifetimes. 7. Glossary Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 189 Low-carbon construction materials. Low-carbon construction materials may refer to building materials that meet the State’s requirements under AB 2446, which requires the State to develop a strategy for the building sector to achieve a 40 percent net reduction in GHG emissions of building materials by 2035. Low-carbon energy. Energy sources that release less carbon than fossil fuels. Examples of low-carbon energy sources are solar, biomethane, and low- to zero-carbon hydrogen.39 Low-Stress Bike Network. Low-stress cycling refers to the idea that a network may be established to ensure that there are ways in which cyclists can easily access areas throughout a community without being an extremely confident rider.40 MCE. Community Choice Energy provider for unincorporated county and most of the cities in Contra Costa County. Microgrid. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a microgrid is a group of interconnected loads and distributed energy resources in clearly defined electrical boundaries that acts as a single controllable entity with respect to the grid. A microgrid can operate in either grid-connected or in island mode, including entirely off-grid applications. Natural carbon sequestration. Assembly Bill 1757 (2022) defines natural carbon sequestration as “actions that are undertaken on natural and working lands to remove and provide storage of atmospheric greenhouse gases in vegetation and soils. This shall include preservation, conservation, restoration, and sustainable management of these lands, which may include compost application, cover crops, hedgerows, planned grazing, urban forestry, riparian restoration, restoration of tidal flows to wetlands, and other forms of wetland restoration, among other relevant actions”.41 Natural infrastructure. An area or system that is either naturally occurring or naturalized and then intentionally managed to provide multiple benefits for the environment and human well-being. Natural and working lands. Lands not covered by buildings or structures, including forests, grasslands, shrublands, woodlands, rangelands, farmland, wetlands, coastal areas, and the green spaces in urban and built environments. These lands serve important ecological purposes, including providing food and fiber, clean air, water, flood protection, species habitats, and other resources and benefits.42 Chapter 7 190 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 Near zero-emission. A building, vehicle, technology, or other type of operation that uses zero-emission technologies, enables technologies that provide a pathway to zero-emissions operations, or incorporates other technologies that significantly reduce criteria pollutants, toxic air contaminants, and GHG emissions.43 Net-zero. Means that emissions of GHGs to the atmosphere are balanced by removals of GHG emissions over a period of time.44 Open space. Land that is not intensively developed for residential, commercial, industrial, or institutional use. Qualified climate action plan. A climate action plan that meets State requirements such that future development projects requiring environmental review under State law can streamline greenhouse gas impact analyses by demonstrating consistency with the plan. Reach code. A local municipal code that exceeds the State building code. An energy reach code must be at least as stringent as the statewide code, cost-effective, approved by the California Energy Commission, and updated and re-approved with each State Energy Code update. Resilience. The capacity of any entity—an individual, a community, an organization, or a natural system—to prepare for disruptions, to recover from shocks and stresses, and to adapt and grow from a disruptive experience. Community resilience is the ability of communities to withstand, recover, and learn from past disasters to strengthen future response and recovery efforts.45,46,47 Resilience Hubs. Community-serving facilities augmented to support residents and coordinate resource distribution and services before, during, and after a natural hazard event. Risk. The potential for damage or loss created by the interaction of hazards with assets such as buildings, infrastructure, or natural and cultural resources.48 Sea level rise. The worldwide average rise in mean sea level, which may be due to a number of different causes, such as the thermal expansion of sea water and the addition of water to the oceans from the melting of glaciers, ice caps, and ice sheets.49 Sensitivity. The level to which a species, natural system, or community, government, etc. would be affected by changing climate conditions.50 7. Glossary Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 191 Social vulnerability. The susceptibility of a given population to harm from exposure to a hazard, directly affecting its ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover from the hazard.51,52 Solid waste. The federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act defines solid waste as “any garbage or refuse, sludge from a wastewater treatment plant, water supply treatment plant, or air pollution control facility and other discarded material, resulting from industrial, commercial, mining, and agricultural operations, and from community activities. Nearly everything we do leaves behind some kind of waste. It is important to note that the definition of solid waste is not limited to wastes that are physically solid. Many solid wastes are liquid, semi-solid, or contained gaseous material”.. State Responsibility Area. The area in the state where the State of California has primary financial responsibility for the prevention and suppression of wildland fires. Susceptibility. A person or population’s potential for vulnerability due to demographic, socioeconomic, and geolocation characteristics.53 Sustainability. Meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Transportation network company (TNC). Companies that provide prearranged transportation services for compensation using an online-enabled application or platform to connect drivers using their personal vehicles with passengers. Unincorporated Area. All land and water within a county that is outside the boundaries of incorporated cities and towns. Development in the unincorporated area is subject to County land use regulations. Unincorporated communities: Communities in the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County subject to County land use regulations. Urban heat island. The phenomenon in which large urban areas experience higher temperatures, greater pollution, and more negative health impacts during hot months due to a combination of heat-absorptive surfaces, heat-generating activities, and the absence of vegetation.54 Vulnerable road user law. Laws that prioritize the safety of road users who are not motor vehicle drivers. Provisions may include instituting strong penalties for motor vehicle drivers who seriously injure people using roadways who are not protected within a motor vehicle. Chapter 7 192 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 Vulnerability. Climate vulnerability describes the degree to which natural, built, and human systems are susceptible “to harm from exposure to stresses associated with environmental and social change and from the absence of capacity to adapt”.55 Vulnerability assessment. An analysis of how a changing climate may harm a community and which elements—people, buildings and structures, resources, and other assets—are most vulnerable to its effects based on an assessment of exposure, sensitivity, the potential impact(s), and the community’s adaptive capacity.56 Wildland-urban interface. An area where houses and wildland vegetation directly intermingle, creating a significant threat to human life or property from wildfires. Zero-emission vehicle. A vehicle that does not produce emissions when in operation, including battery-electric vehicles and hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles.57 Zero-net-energy building. A building where the value of the energy produced on-site by renewable energy resources is equal to the value of the grid energy consumed annually, as measured using the California Energy Commission’s Time Dependent Valuation Metric.58 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 193 Notes and Sources 1 https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/fact-sheets/ab-32-global-warming-solutions-act-2006 2 California Air Resources Board. 2022. 2022 Scoping Plan for Achieving Carbon Neutrality. https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/our-work/programs/ab-32-climate-change-scoping-plan 3 https://www.opr.ca.gov/ceqa/guidelines/. 4 Bay Air Quality Management District. 2022. CEQA Thresholds for Evaluating the Significance of Climate Impacts from Land Use Projects and Plans. https://www.baaqmd.gov/plans-and-climate/california-environmental- quality-act-ceqa/updated-ceqa-guidelines 5 https://ccta.net/planning/countywide-transportation-plan/. 6 https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/8465/Healthy-Lands-Healthy-People---A-Carbon-. 7 https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/68157/Declaration-of-Climate-Emergency 8 Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, “Summary for Policymakers”, in Climate Change 2021: The Physical Science Basis. Edited by V. Masson-Delmotte et al. Contribution of Working Group 1 to the Sixth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, in press, Cambridge University Press, 2021. 9 Bedsworth, Louise, Dan Cayan, Guido Franco, Leah Fisher, Sonya Ziaja, “Statewide Summary Report”, in California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment, prepared by California Governor’s Office of Planning and Research, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, California Energy Commission, California Public Utilities Commission, publication no. SUM-CCCA4-2018-013, 2018. 10 California Energy Commission, California Strategic Growth Council. 2024. “Cal-Adapt: Extreme Heat and Warm Nights”. https://cal-adapt.org/tools/extreme-heat. 11 https://cchealth.org/health-data/pdf/2015-climate-change.pdf 12 Swan, Rachel, Fagan, Kevin. “Winter storms bring snow to the Bay Area – with more to come”. San Francisco Chronicle. 23 February 2023, https://www.sfchronicle.com/weather/article/bay-area-winter-storms- 17801980.php. 13 https://www.baaqmd.gov/plans-and-climate/california-environmental-quality-act-ceqa/updated-ceqa- guidelines 14 https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/8533/Active-Transportation 15 https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/8532/Vision-Zero 16 Louise Bedsworth, Dan Cayan, Guido Franco, Leah Fisher, and Sonya Ziaja, “Statewide Summary Report”, in California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment, publication no. SUMCCCA4-2018-013, 2018. 17 California Natural Resource Agency, Safeguarding California Plan: 2018 Update: California’s Climate Adaptation Strategy, 2018, http://resources.ca.gov/docs/climate/safeguarding/update2018/safeguarding- california-plan-2018-update.pdf. 18 Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, “Annex II: Glossary”, ed. K. J. Mach, S. Planton, and C. von Stechow, in Climate Change 2014: Synthesis Report, ed. Core Writing Team, R. K. Pachauri, and L. A. Meyer (Geneva, Switzerland: IPCC, 2014), p. 117–130, https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar5/syr/. 19 California Office of Emergency Services. 2020 California Adaptation Planning Guide. https://www.caloes.ca.gov/cal-oes-divisions/hazard-mitigation/hazard-mitigation-planning/california-climate- adaptation. 20 United States Geological Survey. N.d. What’s the difference between geologic and biologic carbon sequestration? https://www.usgs.gov/faqs/whats-difference-between-geologic-and-biologic-carbon- sequestration. 21 California Natural Resource Agency, Safeguarding California Plan: 2018 Update: California’s Climate Adaptation Strategy, 2018, p. 231, 194 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 http://resources.ca.gov/docs/climate/safeguarding/update2018/safeguarding-california-plan-2018- update.pdf. 22 Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, “Annex II: Glossary”, ed. K. J. Mach, S. Planton, and C. von Stechow, in Climate Change 2014: Synthesis Report, ed. Core Writing Team, R. K. Pachauri, and L. A. Meyer (Geneva, Switzerland: IPCC, 2014), p. 117–130, https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar5/syr/. 23 H. Cooley, E. Moore, M. Heberger, and L. Allen (Pacific Institute), Social Vulnerability to Climate Change in California: A White Paper from the California Energy Commission’s California Climate Change Center, California Energy Commission, publication number CEC-500-2012-013, 2012, https://www.energy.ca.gov/2012publications/CEC-500-2012-013/CEC-500-2012-013.pdf. 24 California Department of Transportation. 2021. Director’s Policy. https://dot.ca.gov/-/media/dot- media/programs/sustainability/documents/dp-37-complete-streets-a11y.pdf. 25 California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development. 2021. California Zero-Emission Vehicles Market Development Strategy. https://static.business.ca.gov/wp- content/uploads/2021/02/ZEV_Strategy_Feb2021.pdf. 26 Henderson, Jessyca. 2022. Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance – The Basics. https://www.aiacontracts.org/articles/6500607-environmental-social-and-corporate-governance--the-basics. 27 California Natural Resource Agency, Safeguarding California Plan: 2018 Update: California’s Climate Adaptation Strategy, 2018, p. 231, http://resources.ca.gov/docs/climate/safeguarding/update2018/safeguarding-california-plan-2018- update.pdf. 28 PolicyLink, Equity Manifesto, 2015, 2018, https://www.policylink.org/about-us/equitymanifesto. 29 Louise Bedsworth, Dan Cayan, Guido Franco, Leah Fisher, Sonya Ziaja, “Statewide Summary Report”, in California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment, publication number: SUMCCCA4-2018-013, 2018. 30 California Natural Resource Agency, Safeguarding California Plan: 2018 Update: California’s Climate Adaptation Strategy, 2018, p. 231. 31 International Panel on Climate Change, “Glossary of Terms”, in Managing the Risks of Extreme Events and Disasters to Advance Climate Change Adaptation, special report of Working Groups I and II of the IPCC, ed. C. B. Field et al. (Cambridge, UK, and New York: Cambridge University Press, 2012), p. 555–564, https://www.ipcc.ch/site/assets/uploads/2018/03/SREX_Full_Report-1.pdf. 32 California Office of the State Fire Marshal. 2021. Fire Hazard Severity Zones. https://osfm.fire.ca.gov/divisions/community-wildfire-preparedness-and-mitigation/wildfire- preparedness/fire-hazard-severity-zones/. 33 California Plumbing Code. 2019. California Plumbing Code Chapter 16A, Section 1604A.0. 34 Water Infrastructure Improvement Act Public Law 115-436, 132 Stat. 5558, 5559, 5560, 5561 and 5562. 2019. https://www.congress.gov/115/plaws/publ436/PLAW-115publ436.pdf. 35 World Resources Institute, C40 Cities, ICLEI Local Governments for Sustainability. 2021. Global Protocol for Community-Scale Greenhouse Gas Inventories. https://ghgprotocol.org/sites/default/files/standards/GPC_Full_MASTER_RW_v7.pdf 36 California Office of Emergency Services, California State Hazard Mitigation Plan, 2018, https://www.caloes.ca.gov/cal-oes-divisions/hazard-mitigation/hazard-mitigationplanning/state-hazard- mitigation-plan. 37 California Office of Emergency Services, California State Hazard Mitigation Plan, 2018. 38 California Office of Emergency Services. 2020 California Adaptation Planning Guide. https://www.caloes.ca.gov/cal-oes-divisions/hazard-mitigation/hazard-mitigation-planning/california-climate- adaptation. 39 State of California, 2024. ”The State of California’s Draft Priority Climate Action Plan.” https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2024-03/california-cprg-priority-climate-action-plan.pdf. Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 195 40 University of Delaware. ND. “Complete Communities Toolbox”. https://www.completecommunitiesde.org/planning/complete-streets/low-stress-bike/. 41 California Code, Health, and Safety Code, California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (Division 25.5.), Part 4. Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reductions, Section 38561.5, amended by Assembly Bill 1757 (2022). 42 California Air Resources Board. 2019. California 2030 Natural and Working Lands Climate Change Implementation Plan. https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2019-06/draft-nwl-ip-040419.pdf. 43 California Code, Health and Safety Code, Section 44258. 44 California Climate Crisis Act, Health and Safety Code, Section 38562.2 (2022). 45 California Natural Resource Agency, Safeguarding California Plan: 2018 Update: California’s Climate Adaptation Strategy, 2018, p. 231. 46 Louise Bedsworth, Dan Cayan, Guido Franco, Leah Fisher, Sonya Ziaja, “Statewide Summary Report”, in California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment, publication number: SUMCCCA4-2018-013, 2018. 47 California Natural Resource Agency, Safeguarding California Plan: 2018 Update: California’s Climate Adaptation Strategy, 2018, p. 231. 48 California Office of Emergency Services, California State Hazard Mitigation Plan, 2018, https://www.caloes.ca.gov/cal-oes-divisions/hazard-mitigation/hazard-mitigationplanning/state-hazard- mitigation-plan. 49 California Natural Resources Agency and California Ocean Protection Council. 2018. State of California Sea- Level Rise Guidance, 2018 Update. https://opc.ca.gov/webmaster/ftp/pdf/agenda_items/20180314/Item3_Exhibit-A_OPC_SLR_Guidance-rd3.pdf. 50 California Natural Resource Agency, Safeguarding California Plan: 2018 Update: California’s Climate Adaptation Strategy, 2018, p. 231. 51 H. Cooley, E. Moore, M. Heberger, and L. Allen (Pacific Institute), Social Vulnerability to Climate Change in California: A White Paper from the California Energy Commission’s California Climate Change Center, California Energy Commission, 2012, publication number CEC-500-2012-013, https://www.energy.ca.gov/2012publications/CEC-500- 2012-013/CEC-500-2012-013.pdf. 52 Louise Bedsworth, Dan Cayan, Guido Franco, Leah Fisher, Sonya Ziaja, “Statewide Summary Report”, in California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment, publication number: SUMCCCA4-2018-013, 2018. 53 California Office of Emergency Services. 2020 California Adaptation Planning Guide. https://www.caloes.ca.gov/cal-oes-divisions/hazard-mitigation/hazard-mitigation-planning/california-climate- adaptation. 54 California Environmental Protection Agency. 2022. Urban Heat Island Index for California. https://calepa.ca.gov/climate/urban-heat-island-index-for-california. 55 World Bank, Climate & Disaster Risk Screening Tools: Key Terms, 2019, https://climatescreeningtools.worldbank.org/content/key-terms-0. 56 California Office of Emergency Services. 2020 California Adaptation Planning Guide. https://www.caloes.ca.gov/cal-oes-divisions/hazard-mitigation/hazard-mitigation-planning/california-climate- adaptation. 57 California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development. 2021. California Zero-Emission Vehicles Market Development Strategy. https://static.business.ca.gov/wp- content/uploads/2021/02/ZEV_Strategy_Feb2021.pdf. 58 Berkeley Lab. ND. ”The Zero-Net-Energy (ZNE) Home.” https://svach.lbl.gov/the-zero-net-energy-home/. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN APPENDIX A: KEY STATE AND REGIONAL CLIMATE CHANGE POLICY AND LEGISLATION Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 A -1 Since 2005, the State of California and regional agencies haves responded to growing concerns over the effects of climate change by adopting a comprehensive approach to addressing emissions in the public and private sectors through legislation starting with the first Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (Assembly Bill [AB] 32) and more recently with aggressive statewide targets on greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction (Senate Bill [SB] 32 and AB 1279), renewable energy portfolio standard (SB 100), and zero-emissions vehicles (SB 1275). The following table provides a summary of key State and regional climate change policy and legislation through mid-2023, beginning with the most recent actions. POLICY OR LEGISLATION DATE DESCRIPTION Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) Rules 9- 4 and 9-6 2023 Nitrogen Oxides from Natural Gas-Fired Furnaces, Boilers, and Water Heaters BAAQMD adopted amendments to Regulation 9, Inorganic Gaseous Pollutants, Rule 4, Nitrogen Oxides from Natural Gas- Fired Furnaces (Rule 9-4), and Rule 6, Nitrogen Oxides Emissions from Natural Gas-Fired Boilers and Water Heaters (Rule 9-6). Space- and water-heating appliances generate a large portion of nitrogen oxide (NOX) emissions from sources in the Bay Area. NOX are a key criteria pollutant as a precursor to ozone and secondary particulate matter (PM) formation. The amendments would require more stringent NOX emission standards for space- and water-heating appliances within the BAAQMD’s jurisdiction starting in year 2023 and would substantially reduce NOX emissions from these appliances commonly found in single-family homes and commercial applications. The amendments to Rules 9-4 and 9-6 include the following elements: • Sales and installation of smaller water heaters and boilers (below 75,000 BTU/hour) must be zero emission, starting in 2027. • Sales and installation of furnaces (heat input rate less than 175,000 BTU/hour) must be zero emission starting in 2029. • Sales of larger water heaters and boilers (between 75,000 and 2 million BTU/hour) must be zero emission starting in 2031. Appendix A A -2 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 POLICY OR LEGISLATION DATE DESCRIPTION Existing appliances can remain in operation but the rule would apply once they need replacement. Nitrogen Oxides from Natural Gas-Fired Furnaces BAAQMD adopted the amendment to Regulation 9, Inorganic Gaseous Pollutants, Rule 4, Nitrogen Oxides from Natural Gas- Fired Furnaces (Rule 9-4). Space- and water-heating appliances generate a large portion of nitrogen oxide (NOX) emissions from sources in the Bay Area. NOX are a key criteria pollutant as a precursor to ozone and secondary particulate matter (PM) formation. The amended rule introduces new NOX standards for new, natural gas-fired furnaces, requiring reduced NOx emissions for devices beginning in 2024 and zero NOx emissions for furnaces beginning in 2029. This more stringent NOX emission standards for space-heating appliances within the BAAQMD’s jurisdiction would substantially reduce NOX emissions from these appliances commonly found in single- family homes. Nitrogen Oxides from Natural Gas-Fired Boilers and Water Heaters BAAQMD adopted the amendment to Regulation 9, Inorganic Gaseous Pollutants, Rule 6, Nitrogen Oxides Emissions from Natural Gas-Fired Boilers and Water Heaters (Rule 9-6). As mentioned, space- and water-heating appliances generate a large portion of NOX emissions from sources in the Bay Area. This amendment would require a new zero-NOX standards with compliance dates ranging from 2027 to 2031 to new, natural gas-fired devices. More stringent NOX emission standards for water-heating appliances within the BAAQMD’s jurisdiction would substantially reduce NOX emissions from these appliances commonly found in single-family homes and commercial applications. Advanced Clean Fleets 2023 California Air Resources Board (CARB) adopted the Advanced Clean Fleet standards in August of 2023. This regulation requires California state and local government fleets, including city, county, special district, and State agency fleets, to ensure 50% percent of vehicle purchases are zero-emissions beginning in 2024 and 100% percent of vehicle purchases are zero- emissions by 2027. They must also initially submit a compliance report by April 1, 2024. Small government fleets of 10 or fewer vehicles and those in designated counties would start their ZEV purchases beginning in 2027. Alternatively, State and local government fleet owners may elect to use the ZEV Milestones Option. State and local government fleets may purchase either ZEVs or near-ZEVs, or a combination of ZEVs and near-ZEVs, Key Climate Change Policy and Legislation Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 A -3 POLICY OR LEGISLATION DATE DESCRIPTION until 2035. Starting in 2035, only ZEVs will meet the requirements. Title 24, Part 6, Building Energy- Efficiency Standards 2022, updated every three years The California Energy Resources Conservation and Development Commission (now the CEC) adopted energy conservation standards for new residential and nonresidential buildings in June 1977 and most recently revised in 2022. (Title 24, Part 6, of the California Code of Regulations [CCR]). Title 24 requires the design of building shells and building components to conserve energy. The standards are updated periodically to allow for consideration and possible incorporation of new energy efficiency technologies and methods. The 2022 Building Energy Efficiency Standards, which were adopted on August 11, 2022, went into effect January 1, 2023. Title 24, Part 11, Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen) 2022, updated every three years On July 17, 2008, the California Building Standards Commission adopted the nation’s first green building standards, the California Green Building Standards Code (24 CCR, Part 11, known as “CALGreen”) as part of the California Building Standards Code. CALGreen establishes planning and design standards for sustainable site development, energy efficiency (in excess of the California Energy Code requirements), water conservation, material conservation, and internal air contaminants. The mandatory provisions of CALGreen became effective January 1, 2011. Like the other parts of Title 24, CALGreen is updated every three years. The current version of CALGreen was adopted in 2022 and became effective on January 1, 2023. Title 20, Appliance Efficiency Regulations 2020, updated every three years The CEC adopted the 2016 Appliance Efficiency Regulations (Title 20 CCR Sections 1601–1608), which include standards for both federally regulated appliances and non–federally regulated appliances. Though these regulations are now often viewed as “business as usual,” they exceed the standards imposed by all other states, and they reduce GHG emissions by reducing energy demand. California introduced Title 20 requirements in two phases, with Tier I going into effect January 1, 2018, and Tier II in effect July 1, 2019. Advanced Clean Car II standards 2022 California Air Resources Board (CARB) adopted the Advanced Clean Car II standards in August of 2022. This regulation requires that all new light-duty vehicles (e.g., passenger cars, small trucks, and SUVs) sold in the state to be zero-emission by 2035, with interim targets for new light-duty vehicle sales beginning in 2026. There are some limited exceptions for plug- in hybrid vehicles. Appendix A A -4 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 POLICY OR LEGISLATION DATE DESCRIPTION Senate Bill 852 2022 Authorizes cities, counties, special districts, or a combination of any of the above to form a climate resilience district for the purposes of raising and allocating funding for eligible projects and the operating expenses of eligible projects. Assembly Bill 1757 2022 Requires the California Natural Resources Agency (CNRA), by January 1, 2024, in collaboration with CARB, the California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA), the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA), and an expert advisory committee, to set targets for natural carbon sequestration and nature-based climate solutions for 2030, 2038, and 2045, which must be integrated into the Scoping Plan and other State policies. CARB must ensure that double counting of emissions reductions is avoided and emissions reduction projects and actions that receive State funding will not be eligible to generate credits under any market-based compliance mechanism. CARB, by January 1, 2025, must develop standard methods for State agencies to track GHG emissions and reductions, carbon sequestration, and, where feasible, additional benefits from natural and working lands over time. CNRA, by January 1, 2025, in collaboration with CARB, CalEPA, and CDFA, must review and update the Climate Smart Strategy to achieve the targets and post data on its website on progress made toward targets, including on State expenditures made to implement the targets. Assembly Bill 1279 2022 The California Climate Crisis Act codifies the statewide carbon neutrality goal. It directs the State to achieve net zero GHG emissions as soon as possible, but no later than 2045, and to achieve and maintain net negative GHG emissions thereafter, and to ensure that by 2045, statewide anthropogenic GHG emissions are reduced to at least 85% below the 1990 levels. Senate Bill 596 2021 Requires CARB to establish a strategy to reduce GHG emissions in the concrete and cement sector by 40% from 2019 levels by 2030 and to achieve carbon neutrality as soon as possible, but no later than 2045. Senate Bill 27 2021 Creates the California Carbon Sequestration and Climate Resilience Project Registry in order to maintain a list of eligible but unfunded projects, which then may be funded by public or private entities in order to mitigate California’s GHG emissions and improve climate resilience. Also directs CARB to add carbon sequestration to the state’s climate projection efforts. Advanced Clean Trucks 2023 California Air Resources Board (CARB) adopted the Advanced Clean Trucks standards in August of 2022 accelerate a large- scale transition of zero-emission medium-and heavy-duty vehicles from Class 2b to Class 8. Key Climate Change Policy and Legislation Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 A -5 POLICY OR LEGISLATION DATE DESCRIPTION N-82-20 2020 The order directs state agencies to deploy a number of strategies to store carbon in the state’s natural and working lands and remove it from the atmosphere. The order also sets a first-in-the-nation goal to conserve 30 percent% of the state’s land and coastal water by 2030 (30x30) to fight species loss and ecosystem destruction. Directs state agencies to pursue innovative actions, strategies and partnerships to maximize the full climate benefits of natural and working land, through healthy soils management, including planting cover crops, hedgerows and compost applications; wetlands restoration to protect coastal areas; active forest management to reduce catastrophic risk and restore forest health; and boosting green infrastructure in urban areas like trees and parks. N-79-20 2020 Signed September 23, 2020. Identifies three zero- emissions goals: (1) 100% percent of in-state sales of new light-duty vehicles (i.e., passenger cars and trucks) will be zero-emission by 2035; (2) 100% percent of medium- and heavy-duty vehicles in the State be zero-emission by 2045 for all operations where feasible; and (3) the State will transition to 100% percent zero- emission off-road vehicles and equipment by 2035 where feasible. The order directs CARB to develop regulations and strategies to achieve these goals. CARB adopted regulations for light-duty vehicles in August 2022 through the Advanced Clean Cars II rulemaking process. Assembly Bill 2800 2020 Establishesd Climate-Safe Infrastructure Working Group for the purpose of examining how to integrate scientific data concerning projected climate change impacts into state infrastructure engineering. Senate Bill 743 2020 Amends the standards for determining negative environmental impacts from new development under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) from level of service (traffic congestion levels) to vehicles miles traveled (VMT). Senate Bill 1035 2018 Requires local planning agencies to review and, if necessary, revise the safety element upon each revision of the housing element or local hazard mitigation plan, not less than every 8 years, to identify new information relating to flood and fire hazards and climate adaptation and resiliency strategies. Allows cities and counties to identify new information relating to flood and fire hazards and climate adaptation and resiliency strategies that was not available during the previous revision of the safety element. Senate Bill 100 2018 100 Percent Clean Energy Act of 2018. Requires the state to purchase 100% percent of total retail sales of electricity from eligible renewable energy resources and zero-carbon resources by 2045. Appendix A A -6 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 POLICY OR LEGISLATION DATE DESCRIPTION B-55-18 2018 Signed September 10, 2018, sets a goal “to achieve carbon neutrality as soon as possible, and no later than 2045, and achieve and maintain net negative emissions thereafter.” Directs CARB to work with relevant state agencies to ensure future Scoping Plans identify and recommend measures to achieve the carbon neutrality goal. The goal of carbon neutrality by 2045 is in addition to other statewide goals, meaning not only should emissions be reduced to 80% percent below 1990 levels by 2050, but that, by no later than 2045, the remaining emissions should be offset by equivalent net removals of CO2e from the atmosphere, including through sequestration in forests, soils, and other natural landscapes. Assembly Bill 617 2017 Companion to Cap-and-Trade Extension. Establishes a groundbreaking program to measure and reduce air pollution from mobile and stationary sources at the neighborhood level in the communities most impacted by air pollutants. Requires the Air Resources Board to work closely with local air districts and communities to establish neighborhood air quality monitoring networks and to develop and implement plans to reduce emissions. The focus on community-based air monitoring and emission reductions will provide a national model for enhanced community protection. Assembly Bill 398 2017 Cap-and-Trade Extension. Extends and improves the Cap and Trade Program, which will enable the state to meet its 2030 emission reduction goals in the most cost-effective manner. Furthermore, extending the Cap-and-Trade Program will provide billions of dollars in auction proceeds to invest in communities across California. Senate Bill 1 2017 Transportation funding legislation that increases the state’s gasoline tax by $0.12 per gallon, raising over $5 billion per year for transportation projects including improvements in efficiency and emission reduction. Senate Bill 1383 2016 Short-Lived Climate Pollutants Strategy. Establishes statewide reduction targets for short-lived climate pollutants, including black carbon and methane (CH4). Black carbon is the light- absorbing component of fine particulate matter produced during incomplete combustion of fuels. SB 1383 requires the state board, no later than January 1, 2018, to approve and begin implementing a comprehensive strategy to reduce emissions of short-lived climate pollutants to achieve a reduction in methane by 40% percent, hydrofluorocarbon gases by 40% percent, and anthropogenic black carbon by 50% percent below 2013 levels by 2030. The bill also establishes targets for reducing organic waste in landfills. On March 14, 2017, CARB adopted the Short-Lived Climate Pollutant Key Climate Change Policy and Legislation Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 A -7 POLICY OR LEGISLATION DATE DESCRIPTION Reduction Strategy, which identifies the state’s approach to reducing anthropogenic and biogenic sources of short-lived climate pollutants. Anthropogenic sources of black carbon include on- and off-road transportation, residential wood burning, fuel combustion (charbroiling), and industrial processes. Assembly Bill 197 2016 Greenhouse gas regulations. Prioritizes direct emission reductions from large stationary sources and mobile sources. Senate Bill 32 2016 GHG emission reduction target for 2030. Establishes a statewide GHG emission reduction target of 40% percent below 1990 levels by 2030. B-30-15 2015 Executive Order B-30-15, signed April 29, 2015, sets a goal of reducing GHG emissions within the State to 40% percent of 1990 levels by year 2030. Executive Order B-30-15 also directs CARB to update the Scoping Plan to quantify the 2030 GHG reduction goal for the State and requires State agencies to implement measures to meet the interim 2030 goal as well as the long-term goal for 2050 in Executive Order S-03-05. Assembly Bill 1482 2015 Requires Natural Resources Agency, beginning July 1, 2017, and every 3 years thereafter, to update the state’s climate adaptation strategy. Requires state agencies to maximize specified objectives, including, among others, promoting the use of the climate adaptation strategy to inform planning decisions and ensure that state investments consider climate change impacts, as well as promote the use of natural systems and natural infrastructure, as defined, when developing physical infrastructure to address adaptation. Senate Bill 379 2015 Climate Adaptation and Resiliency Strategies. Requires cities and counties to include climate adaptation and resiliency strategies in the safety elements of their general plans. Cities and counties with an adopted local hazard mitigation plan prior to 2017, are to address climate change in the safety element of the general plan upon the next revisions or update of the local hazard mitigation plan. Cities and counties that do not have an adopted local hazard mitigation plan must update the safety element of the general plan to address climate adaptation and resiliency by January 1, 2022. The bill requires the climate adaptation update to include a set of goals, policies, and objectives based on a vulnerability assessment, as well as implementation measures, including the conservation and implementation of natural infrastructure that may be used in adaptation projects. Appendix A A -8 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 POLICY OR LEGISLATION DATE DESCRIPTION Senate Bill 350 2015 Clean Energy and Pollution Reduction Act of 2015. Establishes targets to increase retail sales of renewable electricity to 50% percent by 2030 and double the energy-efficiency savings in electricity and natural gas end uses by 2030. Assembly Bill 246 2015 Establishes the Integrated Climate Adaptation and Resiliency Program to be administered by the Office of Planning and Research to coordinate regional and local efforts with state climate adaptation strategies to adapt to the impacts of climate change, as specified. Also requires within one year of an update to the Safeguarding California Plan, the Office of Emergency Services, in coordination with the Natural Resources Agency, the Office of Planning and Research, and relevant public and private entities, to review and update, as necessary, the Adaptation Planning Guide, as specified. The bill establishes an advisory council to support the goals of the Office of Planning and Research and a clearinghouse for climate adaptation information. Senate Bill 605 2014 Short-lived climate pollutants. Requires CARB to complete a comprehensive strategy to reduce emissions of short-lived climate pollutants by January 1, 2016. Senate Bill 1826 2014 Organic Waste Diversion. Requires businesses to recycle their organic waste on and after April 1, 2016, depending on the amount of waste they generate per week. This law also requires that on and after January 1, 2016, local jurisdictions across the state implement an organic waste recycling program to divert organic waste generated by businesses and multifamily residential dwellings with five or more units. Organic waste means food waste, green waste, landscape and pruning waste, nonhazardous wood waste, and food-soiled paper waste that is mixed with food waste. Senate Bill 1275 2014 Charge Ahead California Initiative. Establishes a state goal of 1 million zero-emission and near-zero-emission vehicles in service by 2020. Amends the enhanced fleet modernization program to provide a mobility option. Establishes the Charge Ahead California Initiative requiring planning and reporting on vehicle incentive programs and increasing access to and benefits from zero-emission vehicles for disadvantaged, low-income, and moderate-income communities and consumers. Senate Bill 1204 2014 California Clean Truck, Bus, and Off-Road Vehicle and Equipment Technology Program. Creates the California Clean Truck, Bus, and Off-Road Vehicle and Equipment Technology Program funded by the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund for development, demonstration, precommercial pilot, and early commercial deployment of zero- and near-zero emission truck, Key Climate Change Policy and Legislation Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 A -9 POLICY OR LEGISLATION DATE DESCRIPTION bus, and off-road vehicle and equipment technologies, with priority given to projects benefiting disadvantaged communities. Assembly Bill 8 2013 Alternative fuel and vehicle technologies funding programs. Extends until January 1, 2024, extra fees on vehicle registrations, boat registrations, and tire sales in order to fund the AB 118, Carl Moyer, and AB 923 programs that support the production, distribution, and sale of alternative fuels and vehicle technologies and air emissions reduction efforts. The bill suspends until 2024 CARB’s regulation requiring gasoline refiners to provide hydrogen fueling stations and appropriates up to $220 million, of AB 118 money to create hydrogen fueling infrastructure in the state. Assembly Bill 1092 2013 Building standards for electric vehicle charging infrastructure. Requires the Building Standards Commission to adopt mandatory building standards for the installation of future electric vehicle charging infrastructure for parking spaces in multifamily dwellings and nonresidential development. Senate Bill 535 2012 Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund and Disadvantaged Communities. Requires the California Environmental Protection Agency to identify disadvantaged communities; requires that 25% of all funds allocated to the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund established by AB 32 go to projects that benefit disadvantaged communities, with at least 10% going to projects located within these communities. Requires the Department of Finance to include a description of how these requirements are fulfilled in an annual report. Assembly Bill 1532 2012 Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund in the Budget. Requires the Department of Finance to develop and submit to the Legislature an investment plan every three years for the use of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund; requires revenue collected pursuant to a market-based compliance mechanism to be appropriated in the Annual Budget Act; requires the department to report annually to the Legislature on the status of projects funded; and specifies that findings issued by the Governor related to “linkage” as part of a market-base compliance mechanism are not subject to judicial review. Senate Bill X1-2 2011 Directs the California Public Utilitiesy Commission’s (CPUC’s) Renewable Energy Resources Program to increase the amount of electricity generated from eligible renewable energy resources per year to an amount that equals at least 20% of the total electricity sold to retail customers in California per year by December 31, 2013, 25% by December 31, 2016 and 33% by December 31, 2020. In 2018, Senate Bill 100 was signed into law, which increases the RPS to 60% by 2030 and requires all the state’s electricity to come from carbon-free resources by Appendix A A -10 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 POLICY OR LEGISLATION DATE DESCRIPTION 2045 (see above). The new RPS goals appliesapply to all electricity retailers in the state including publicly owned utilities (POUs), investor-owned utilities, electricity service providers, and community choice aggregators. This new RPS preempts the California Air Resources Board’s 33% percent Renewable Electricity Standard. Assembly Bill 1504 2011 Requires Department of Forestry and Fire Protection and Air Resources Board to assess the capacity of its forest and rangeland regulations to meet or exceed the state’s greenhouse goals, pursuant to AB 32. Assembly Bill 341 2011 AB 341 (Chapter 476, Statutes of 2011) increasesd the statewide goal for waste diversion to 75% percent by 2020 and requires recycling of waste from commercial and multifamily residential land uses. Section 5.408 of CALGreen also requires that at least 65% percent of the nonhazardous construction and demolition waste from nonresidential construction operations be recycled and/or salvaged for reuse. Senate Bill X7-7 2010 20x20 Water Conservation Plan. Mandates urban water conservation and authorized the Department of Water Resources (DWR) to prepare a plan implementing urban water conservation requirements (20x2020 Water Conservation Plan). In addition, it requires agricultural water providers to prepare agricultural water management plans, measure water deliveries to customers, and implement other efficiency measures. SBX7-7 requires urban water providers to adopt a water conservation target of 20% percent reduction in urban per capita water use by 2020 compared to 2005 baseline use. Assembly Bill 2514 2010 Law Rrequiresing electric utilities to install minimum levels of grid-scale energy storage infrastructure. Senate Bill 375 2008 Requires CARB to develop regional GHG emission reduction targets for passenger vehicles. CARB established targets for 2020 and 2035 for each region covered by one of the State's 18 metropolitan planning organizations (MPO). CARB is required to update the targets for the MPOs every eight years. Assembly Bill 118 2007 Creates the Alternative and Renewable Fuel and Vehicle Technology Program, to be administered by the Energy Commission, to provide funding to public projects to develop and deploy innovative technologies that transform California's fuel and vehicle types to help attain the state's climate change policies. Senate Bill 97 2007 Directs Governor's Office of Planning and Research to develop CEQA guidelines "for the mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions or the effects of greenhouse gas emissions." Key Climate Change Policy and Legislation Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 A -11 POLICY OR LEGISLATION DATE DESCRIPTION Assembly Bill 1881 2006 The Water Conservation in Landscaping Act of 2006 requires local agencies to adopt the updated DWR model ordinance or an equivalent. Requires the CEC to consult with the DWR to adopt, by regulation, performance standards and labeling requirements for landscape irrigation equipment, including irrigation controllers, moisture sensors, emission devices, and valves to reduce the wasteful, uneconomic, inefficient, or unnecessary consumption of energy or water. Assembly Bill 1803 2006 GHG inventory transferred to Air Resources Board from the Energy Commission. Senate Bill 1 2006 California's Million Solar Roofs plan is enhanced by the CPUC and CEC's adoption of the California Solar Initiative. SB 1 directs CPUC and CEC to expand this program to more customers and requires the state's municipal utilities to create their own solar rebate programs. This bill would require, beginning January 1, 2011, a seller of new homes to offer the option of a solar energy system to all customers negotiating to purchase a new home constructed on land meeting certain criteria and to disclose certain information. Senate Bill 107 2006 Directs CPUC’s Renewable Energy Resources Program to increase the amount of renewable electricity (RPS) generated per year, from 17% to an amount that equals at least 20% of the total electricity sold to retail customers in California per year by December 31, 2010. Assembly Bill 32 2006 California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006. Requires CARB to adopt a statewide GHG emissions limit equivalent to the statewide GHG emissions levels in 1990 to be achieved by 2020. CARB shall adopt regulations to require the reporting and verification of statewide GHG emissions and to monitor and enforce compliance with this program. AB 32 directs Climate Action Team established by the Governor to coordinate the efforts set forth under Executive Order S-3-05 to continue its role in coordinating overall climate policy. Executive Order S- 03-05 2005 Signed June 1, 2005, set the following GHG reduction targets for the state: 2000 levels by 2010, 1990 levels by 2020, and 80% percent below 1990 levels by 2050. Senate Bill 1078 2002 Establishes the California RPS Program, which requires electric utilities and other entities under the jurisdiction of the CPUC to meet 20% of their renewable power by December 31, 2017, for the purposes of increasing the diversity, reliability, public health and environmental benefits of the energy mix. Appendix A A -12 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 POLICY OR LEGISLATION DATE DESCRIPTION Senate Bill 812 2002 Adds forest management practices to the California Climate Action Registry members' reportable emissions actions and directed the Registry to adopt forestry procedures and protocols to monitor, estimate, calculate, report and certify carbon stores and carbon dioxide emissions that resulted from the conservation-based management of forests in California. Assembly Bill 1493 2002 State law requiring the first set of GHG emission standards for passenger vehicles. Requires the registry, in consultation with CARB, to adopt procedures and protocols for the reporting and certification of reductions in GHG emissions from mobile sources for use by the state board in granting the emission reduction credits. This bill requires the state board to develop and adopt, by January 1, 2005, regulations that achieve the maximum feasible reduction of GHGs emitted by passenger vehicles and light-duty trucks. Senate Bill 527 2001 Revises the functions and duties of the California Climate Action Registry and requires the Registry, in coordination with CEC to adopt third-party verification metrics, developing GHG emissions protocols and qualifying third-party organizations to provide technical assistance and certification of emissions baselines and inventories. SB 527 amended SB 1771 to emphasize third-party verification. Senate Bill 1771 2000 Establishes the creation of the non-profit organization, the California Climate Action Registry and specifies functions and responsibilities to develop a process to identify and qualify third- party organizations approved to provide technical assistance and advice in monitoring GHG emissions and setting GHG emissions baselines in coordination with CEC. Also, the bill directs the Registry to enable participating entities to voluntarily record their annual GHG emissions inventories. Also, SB 1771 directs CEC to update the state's GHG inventory from an existing 1998 report and continuing to update it every five years. Assembly Bill 939 1989 California’s Integrated Waste Management Act of 1989, AB 939 (Public Resources Code §§ 40050 et seq.) sets a requirement for cities and counties throughout the state to divert 50% percent of all solid waste from landfills by January 1, 2000, through source reduction, recycling, and composting. In 2008, the requirements were modified to reflect a per capita requirement rather than tonnage. To help achieve this, the act requires that each city and county prepare and submit a source reduction and recycling element. AB 939 also established the goal for all California counties to provide at least 15 years of ongoing landfill capacity. Key Climate Change Policy and Legislation Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – July August 2024 A -13 POLICY OR LEGISLATION DATE DESCRIPTION Assembly Bill 4420 1988 Directs tThe CEC was statutorilyis directed to prepare and maintain the inventory of GHG emissions and to study the effects of GHGs and the climate change impacts on the state's energy supply and demand, economy, environment, agriculture, and water supplies. The study also required recommendations for avoiding, reducing, and addressing related impacts - and required the CEC to coordinate the study and any research with federal, state, academic, and industry research projects. Sources: Statewide Energy Efficiency Climate Collaborative Climate Action Plan 2.0 Template; University of California Berkeley Center for Law, Energy, and the Environment, California Climate Policy Dashboard; PlaceWorks, 2021. Appendix A A -14 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 This page intentionally left blank. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN APPENDIX B: TECHNICAL GHG APPENDIX Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -1 This appendix provides details for Contra Costa County’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions inventory and forecast in Chapter 3 of the 2024 Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) and the GHG emission reduction pathway presented in Chapter 4 of the 2024 CAAP. It summarizes the technical details and findings from these analyses as well as the data sources, assumptions, and performance metrics used to assess the potential for GHG savings from State and local existing and planned efforts and the reduction strategies associated with the CAAP. Inventory and Forecast As part of the preparation of the 2015 CAP, Contra Costa County and its regional partners and technical consultants prepared community-wide and County operations GHG inventories for the calendar years 2005 and 2013. The 2015 CAP identified the year 2005 as the baseline year for emission reductions, as this was considered a year with good data availability at the time, consistent with State guidance, and without any unusual factors that might affect GHG emissions. As part of the 2024 CAAP update process, the project teams prepared inventories of community-wide emissions for the years 2017 and 2019. County staff made some updates to the 2005 and 2013 community-wide inventories in the 2015 CAP to ensure a consistent method and approach across all inventory years. County staff have also prepared a County operations GHG emissions inventory for the year 2017. This document presents the full results of the Contra Costa County community-wide GHG inventory and the County operations inventory and is the most up-to-date summary of Contra Costa County’s GHG emissions. Appendix B B -2 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 PROTOCOLS A series of guidance documents, called protocols, provide recommendations on how to adequately assess GHG emissions. The project team prepared the new GHG inventories and updates to past GHG inventories consistent with the guidance in widely adopted, standard protocol documents. These protocols provide guidance on what activities should be evaluated in the GHG inventories and how emissions from those activities should be assessed. Using standard methods also allows for an easy comparison of GHG emission levels across multiple years and communities. • The County operations GHG inventory relies on the Local Government Operations Protocol (LGOP), which was first developed in 2008 and was updated in 2010. The LGOP is a tool for accounting and reporting GHG emissions of local government (municipal) operations and is used throughout California and the United States. The LGOP includes guidance from several existing programs as well as the state’s mandatory GHG reporting regulations. • The community-wide GHG inventory uses the United States Community Protocol for Accounting and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions (U.S. Community Protocol), which was first developed in 2012 and updated most recently in 2019. The California Governor’s Office of Planning and Research encourages cities and counties in California to follow the U.S. Community Protocol for community-wide GHG emissions. • A third protocol, the Global Protocol for Community-Scale Greenhouse Gas Inventories (Global Protocol) was first developed in 2014 and is intended for use in preparing international community-scale GHG inventories. It is largely consistent with the U.S. Community Protocol, although it contains additional guidance and resources to support a wider range of activities that may be found in other countries. The project team has used the Global Protocol to assess GHG emissions from sources that are not covered in the U.S. Community Protocol. GHG inventories are estimates of GHG emissions based on these standard methods and verified datasets. While they are not direct measurements of GHG emissions, the use of the standard methods identified in the protocols, in combination with accurate data from appropriate sources, allows GHG inventories to provide reliable estimates of local emission levels. Due to potential data limitations, some inconsistencies in methods may remain. Any concerns about inconsistent methods are noted in the appropriate sector discussion. Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -3 UNITS OF MEASUREMENT GHG inventories and forecasts assess emissions in a unit called carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e), which is a combined unit of all GHGs analyzed in the inventory. As different GHGs have different effects on the processes that drive climate change, CO2e is a weighted unit that reflects the relative potency of the different GHGs. These inventories report amounts of GHGs in metric tons of CO2e (MTCO2e), equal to 1,000 kilograms or approximately 2,205 pounds. EMISSION FACTORS An emission factor describes how many MTCO2e are released per unit of an activity. For instance, an emission factor for electricity describes the MTCO2e produced per kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity used. Since different sources of electricity can have different emission factors, the emission factors in Table B-1 represent a weighted average of emission factors across electricity sources and portfolios (e.g. MCE’s Light Green and Deep Green products). The emission factor for on-road transportation describes the MTCO2e produced per mile of driving. The project team calculated most of the GHG emissions using data on GHG-generating activities in combination with emission factors. Some sources of GHG emissions (known as sectors), including agriculture and off-road emissions, are calculated using formulae or models and do not have specific emission factors. Table B-1 shows the emission factors for the inventory years for the unincorporated area. Appendix B B -4 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 TABLE B-1: GHG INVENTORY EMISSION FACTORS, 2005–2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE SOURCE PG&E electricity (MTCO2e/kWh) 0.000226 0.000195 0.000096 0.000108 -52% PG&E Direct access electricity (MTCO2e/ kWh) 0.000388 0.000309 0.000208 0.000187 -52% California Energy Commission MCE electricity (MTCO2e/ kWh) N/A N/A 0.000059 0.000045 -24% * MCE Natural gas (MTCO2e/therm) 0.005311 0.005311 0.005311 0.005311 0% US Community Protocol Propane (MTCO2e/gallon) 0.005844 0.005844 0.005844 0.005844 0% US Community Protocol Kerosene (MTCO2e/gallon) 0.010569 0.010569 0.010569 0.010569 0% US Community Protocol Wood (MTCO2e/MMBTU) 0.095624 0.095624 0.095624 0.095624 0% US Community Protocol On-road vehicles (MTCO2e/VMT) 0.000486 0.000483 0.000421 0.000408 -16% California Air Resources Board BART (MTCO2e/ passenger mile) 0.000093 0.000093 0.000093 0.000013 -86% BART Municipal solid waste (MTCO2e/ton) 0.293179 0.293184 0.286047 0.261659 -11% CalRecycle Alternative daily cover (MTCO2e/ton) 0.191850 0.245890 0.245694 0.245693 28% CalRecycle * MCE’s percentage change is from 2017 to 2019. Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -5 COMMUNITY-WIDE EMISSIONS Sectors The community-wide GHG inventory assessed GHG emissions from the following 11 categories of activities, known as sectors. • Transportation includes GHG emissions created by driving on-road vehicles in the unincorporated county, including passenger and freight vehicles. • Residential energy includes GHG emissions attributed to the use of electricity, natural gas, and other home heating fuels in residential buildings. • Solid waste includes the GHG emissions released from trash collected in the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County, as well as collective annual emissions from waste already in place at the Acme, Keller Canyon, and West Contra Costa Landfills. • Nonresidential energy includes GHG emissions attributed to the use of electricity and natural gas in nonresidential buildings. • Agriculture includes GHG emissions from various agricultural activities in the unincorporated county, including agricultural equipment, crop cultivation and harvesting, fertilizer application, and livestock operations. • Off-road equipment includes GHG emissions from equipment that does not provide on-road transportation (excluding agricultural equipment), such as tractors for construction, or equipment used for landscape maintenance, commercial and industrial equipment, and outdoor recreational equipment. • Water and wastewater accounts for the electricity used to transport and process water and wastewater used or generated by unincorporated county residents and businesses, as well as direct emissions resulting from wastewater treatment activities. • Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) includes GHG emissions associated with the operation of BART for unincorporated county residents. Appendix B B -6 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 • Land use and sequestration includes GHG emissions absorbed and stored in trees and soils on locally controlled lands as part of healthy ecosystems and released into the atmosphere from development of previously undeveloped land. • Stationary sources are emissions from fuel use at major industrial facilities, permitted by state and regional air quality authorities. These emissions are informational and are not counted as part of the community total. • Wildfire includes emissions released as a result of wildfires. These emissions are informational and are not counted as part of the community total. • Direct access electricity is electricity purchased directly from an Electric Service Provider (ESP) rather than a conventional utility company or Community Choice Energy provider such as MCE, generally to power large industrial, commercial, and institutional facilities. Community-Wide Inventory Results Table B-2 show the community-wide GHG emissions for the unincorporated area associated for the four inventory years. Total community-wide emissions declined 22 percent from 2005 to 2019. The most significant decreases in emissions came from BART, water and wastewater, residential energy use, and transportation, which all saw their associated emissions decrease by more than 25 percent. Only off-road equipment saw a significant (58 percent) increase in associated GHG emissions. Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -7 TABLE B-2: ABSOLUTE ANNUAL GHG EMISSIONS, 2005–2019 (MTCO2E) SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005 - 2019 Transportation 628,200 651,130 571,650 464,040 -26% Residential energy 294,930 280,870 212,420 191,780 -35% Nonresidential energy 118,740 125,350 98,8501 85,390 -28% Solid waste 243,940 224,570 223,100 220,760 -10% Agriculture 33,350 39,300 44,880 36,130 8% Off-road equipment 34,160 36,290 42,840 54,010 58% Water and wastewater 8,080 7,400 4,400 4,870 -40% BART 1,040 1,320 1,440 190 -82% Land use and sequestration -70,860 -70,860 -70,860 -70,860 0% Total Annual MTCO2e 1,291,580 1,295,370 1,128,720 986,310 -24% Informational Items Stationary sources 13,983,030 11,956,000 11,232,290 10,867,670 -22% Wildfire 14,270 66,080 02* 10,100 N/A3 Direct access electricity 04 04 04 74,130 N/A Note: All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. 1 Estimates of nonresidential electricity use in 2013 are used in 2017 to account for a lack of available data in 2017. 2 No wildfires were recorded in the unincorporated county in 2017. 3 Overall change between 2005 and 2019 for wildfire is not calculated because of the high degree of year-to-year variability. 4 PG&E did not provide direct access electricity use data in these years.All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. *No wildfires were recorded within the unincorporated County in 2017. Regarding stationary sources, there are several factors outside of the County’s control that influence the operations and related emissions and energy use at these facilities. The County has therefore elected to exclude the direct emissins and energy use at these facilities from consideration of the County’s GHG reduction goals for the following reasons: • These facilities are regulated primarily through the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and the California Energy Commission (CEC), and are subject to air quality and emissions standards set forth by USEPA, CARB, and BAAQMD. ▪ The energy used at some of these facilities fluctuates from year to year depending on the demand for resources and the availability of other electricity-generating sources such as hydropower or renewable resources. This makes it difficult to accurately forecast the energy use at these facilities. Appendix B B -8 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 ▪ The County has limited jurisdictional authority to reduce GHG emissions from these sources as they are subject to cap-and-trade regulations set forth by CARB. ▪ The approach to excluding energy from sources that are outside of the County’s jurisdictional control is consistent with the U.S. Community Protocol for Accounting and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions. The resultant jurisdictional inventory more accurately reflects the energy use from nonresidential customers in unincorporated Contra Costa County and allows the County to focus on actions that are within its control. Contra Costa County is developing a Just Transition Economic Revitalization Plan, a long- term strategic plan for transitioning to a net zero-emission economy. COMMUNITY-WIDE GHG INVENTORY RESULTS BY SECTOR Transportation On-road transportation activity accounts for vehicle miles driven between two points in the unincorporated area, or between the unincorporated area or another community. It does not include miles for trips that begin and end in other communities but pass through the unincorporated area (e.g., from Sacramento to Oakland). Unincorporated Contra Costa County community members drove approximately 1.3 billion vehicle miles in 2005, decreasing 12 percent to approximately 1.1 billion vehicle miles in 2019. The VMT in 2005 resulted in GHG emissions of approximately 628,200 MTCO2e, which dropped to approximately 464,040 in 2019, a 26-percent decrease. GHG emissions decreased due to this reduction in VMT, increasingly fuel-efficient vehicles, and a wider adoption of electric vehicles. The average vehicle on the road in unincorporated Contra Costa County generated 16 percent fewer GHG emissions per mile in 2019 than in 2005, as reported by Caltrans. Table B-3 provides a breakdown of the activity data and emissions for on-road transportation for the unincorporated area by each individual year included in the updated community inventory. Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -9 TABLE B-3: TRANSPORTATION ACTIVITY DATA AND GHG EMISSIONS, 2005–2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005 - 2019 Activity Data (VMT) On-road transportation 1,291,819,230 1,349,279,980 1,357,121,160 1,136,911,090 -12% Emissions (MTCO2e) On-road transportation 628,200 651,130 571,650 464,040 -26% All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Residential Energy Contra Costa County’s GHG emissions from residential energy totaled approximately 191,780 MTCO2e in 2019, compared to 294,930 MTCO2e in 2005, a decline of 35 percent. Residential electricity GHG emissions decreased due to a decrease in overall use and usage of cleaner sources of electricity. Residential electricity use fell 40 percent from 2005 to 2019, from 488,236,740 kWh to 293,561,300 kWh. Over this period, as seen in Table B-1, a unit of electricity supplied by Pacific Gas and Electricity Company (PG&E) emitted 52 percent less GHG in 2019 than in 2005. Electricity from MCE, which supplied electricity to community residents in 2017 and 2019, generated even fewer GHG emissions per unit of electricity than PG&E-supplied electricity, which has also contributed to the decline in this sector. Natural gas use and GHG emissions saw a small decrease from 2005 to 2019 of 3 percent despite a growing population. Propane and wood use and GHG emissions also declined over this period, although GHG emissions from these fuels are only a small proportion of those from the residential energy sector. Table B-4 provides a breakdown of the activity data and GHG emissions for residential energy for the unincorporated area. Appendix B B -10 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 TABLE B-4: RESIDENTIAL ENERGY ACTIVITY DATA AND GHG EMISSIONS BY SUBSECTOR, 2005–2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005 - 2019 Activity Data Residential PG&E electricity (kWh) 488,236,740 478,219,710 461,970,670 46,158,330 -91% Residential MCE electricity (kWh) - - 307,820 247,402,970 80,273%* Residential natural gas (therms) 30,919,160 31,007,110 28,634,420 30,100,640 -3% Residential propane (gallons) 1,525,330 1,106,900 1,043,270 1,021,340 -33% Residential kerosene (gallons) 13,160 10,960 8,030 16,320 24% Residential wood (MMBTU) 117,000 165,830 100,960 101,710 -13% Emissions (MTCO2e) Residential PG&E electricity 110,120 93,380 44,510 5,000 -95% Residential MCE electricity 0 0 20 11,060 55,200%* Residential natural gas 164,570 165,040 152,060 159,850 -3% Residential propane 8,910 6,470 6,100 5,970 -33% Residential kerosene 140 120 80 170 21% Residential wood 11,190 15,860 9,650 9,730 -13% Total Annual MTCO2e 294,930 280,870 212,420 191,780 -35% * MCE did not operate in the unincorporated County until 2017, and 2017 operations were very limited. MCE percentage changes are for changes from 2017 to 2019. All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. Solid Waste Contra Costa County’s community-wide GHG emissions associated with solid waste includes four subsectors. • Municipal solid waste (MSW) is the material that is discarded by community members and reflects the actual waste generated by the community. • Alternative daily cover (ADC) is organic material applied at landfills by the landfill operator as a means of controlling debris and pests. Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -11 • Waste in place is the solid waste and associated GHG emissions deposited in the County’s landfills in previous years. • The flaring subsector accounts for GHG emissions from the combustion of gases generated by the decomposing waste. Between 2005 and 2019, total solid waste GHG emissions decreased by 10 percent due to decreases in solid waste generated and ADC applied, likely as a result of increased community awareness about recycling and composting and the availability of curbside recycling programs. Although annual waste generation decreased, waste in place at the landfills increased as waste is added to the landfills each year. Table B-5 presents solid waste emissions data for each year for the unincorporated area. TABLE B-5: SOLID WASTE ACTIVITY DATA AND GHG EMISSIONS BY SUBSECTOR, 2005–2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005 – 2019 Activity Data (Tons) Solid waste 154,820 78,790 79,520 79,340 -49% ADC 15,950 13,990 11,470 7,580 -52% Waste in place 34,455,010 41,785,650 45,776,140 47,618,290 38% Landfill flaring 5,270 5,260 5,250 5,270 Less than 1% Emissions (MTCO2e) Solid waste 45,390 23,100 22,750 20,760 -54% ADC 3,060 3,440 2,820 1,860 -39% Waste in place 193,950 196,500 196,000 196,610 1% Landfill flaring 1,540 1,530 13,550 13,590 -1% Total Annual MTCO2e 243,940 224,570 235,120 232,820 -10% All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. Nonresidential Energy Contra Costa County’s GHG emissions from nonresidential energy totaled approximately 85,390159,520 MTCO2e in 2019, compared to 118,740 MTCO2e in 2005, an decreaseincrease of 2834 percent. Electricity emissions from retail electricity suppliers (PG&E and MCE) have fallen significantly, driven by a small decrease in electricity use and a large increase in the amount of electricity for renewable and carbon-free sources (see Table B-1). Between 2005 and 2019, nonresidential electricity obtained from PG&E Appendix B B -12 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 decreased by 90 percent and nonresidential electricity obtained from MCE increased from virtually nothing in 2017 to approximately 200 million kWh in 2019. Natural gas use and associated emissions have reportedly increased, although this may be less of an actual increase and more so the result of data being omitted by PG&E as a way of complying with Sstate privacy regulations. As a consequence of this, the project team has kept nonresidential natural gas use constant at 2013 levels, a conservative estimate that may not account for actual decreases in this subsector. Similarly, direct access electricity (electricity purchased from third parties instead of PG&E or MCE, usually by large customers such as major industrial facilities) was only reported for 2019, although this electricity use likely occurred in previous years but was not reported due to privacy regulations. Table B-6 provides a breakdown of the activity data and GHG emissions for nonresidential energy for the unincorporated area. Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -13 TABLE B-6: NONRESIDENTIAL ENERGY ACTIVITY DATA AND GHG EMISSIONS BY SUBSECTOR, 2005–2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005–2019 Activity Data Nonresidential PG&E Electricity (kWh) 1 284,558,070 266,216,660 266,216,660 29,062,250 -90% Nonresidential MCE electricity (kWh) 2 0 0 28,730 200,181,720 696,669% Nonresidential Direct Access electricity (kWh) 3 0 0 0 396,805,940 N/A Nonresidential natural gas (therms) 4 10,251,360 13,784,410 13,784,410 13,784,410 -58% Emissions (MTCO2e) Nonresidential PG&E electricity 1 64,180 51,980 25,650 3,150 -95% Nonresidential MCE electricity 2 0 0 Less than 10 9,040 451,900% Nonresidential Direct Access electricity 3 0 0 0 74,130 N/A Nonresidential natural gas 34 54,560 73,370 73,200 73,200 34% Total Annual MTCO2e 118,740 125,350 98,850 85,390 34% 1: Due to omissions in data reported by PG&E for the calendar year 2017, the project team assumed that electricity use remained constant from 2013 levels. 2: MCE did not operate in the unincorporated County until 2017, and 2017 operations were very limited. MCE percentage changes are for changes from 2017 to 2019. 3: Direct access electricity was only reported for 2019. As PG&E also reports MCE-supplied electricity as Direct Access, the numbers given in this table are the electricity use after MCE data are removed. 34: Due to omissions in data reported by PG&E for the calendar years 2017 and 2019, the project team assumed that natural gas use remained constant from 2013 levels. All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. Agricultural Emissions GHG emissions associated with the agriculture sector for the unincorporated area increased by approximately 8 percent between 2005 and 2019, as shown in Table B-7. This increase is due primarily to a minor increase (5 percent) in the amount of cattle in the county. Although crop acreages declined from 2005 to 2019, more fertilizer was applied in Appendix B B -14 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 2019 than in 2005 due to a shift in the types of crops being grown that required slightly more fertilizer. TABLE B-7: AGRICULTURE ACTIVITY DATA AND GHG EMISSIONS BY SUBSECTOR, 2005– 2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005–2019 Activity Data Crops (acreage) 200,980 204,031 197,360 183,730 -9% Nitrogen applied (pounds) 3,261,620 3,560,480 3,698,500 3,608,340 11% Livestock (effective annual population) 16,500 19,110 22,060 17,340 5% Emissions (MTCO2e) Crops 3,920 4,280 4,450 4,340 11% Enteric fermentation 28,510 33,920 39,160 30,790 8% Manure management 920 1,100 1,270 1,000 9% Total Annual MTCO2e 33,350 39,300 44,880 36,130 8% All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. Off-Road Equipment Emissions According to data shown in Table B-8, emissions from off-road equipment in unincorporated Contra Costa County increased approximately 73 percent between 2005 and 2019, although the sector overall remains a small proportion of the total community- wide emissions. This increase is primarily the result of a significant rise in diesel tractor and other agricultural equipment use over this period, along with increases in commercial and industrial/warehouse equipment use. Since this is modeling directly reported by State agencies, it is possible that changes in modeling methods may be affecting the results. Note that the State provides these GHG emission levels directly, so there is no activity data to display. Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -15 TABLE B-8: OFF-ROAD EQUIPMENT GHG EMISSIONS BY SUBSECTOR, 2005–2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005 – 2019 Agricultural equipment 1,200 1,190 1,180 10,170 748% Cargo handling equipment 900 380 330 310 -66% Commercial harbor equipment * 0 0 0 2,600 N/A Construction and mining equipment 6,780 7,170 8,880 7,200 6% Industrial equipment 8,320 8,840 9,470 9,780 18% Lawn and garden equipment 3,580 3,280 3,760 3,880 8% Light commercial equipment 2,230 2,780 3,060 3,270 47% Locomotives 3,170 3,260 3,540 3,620 14% Oil drilling equipment 20 20 20 20 0% Pleasure craft 1,890 1,810 1,800 1,830 -3% Portable equipment 4,830 6,240 6,700 6,970 44% Recreational equipment 650 670 610 630 -3% Transport Refrigeration Units 590 650 3,490 3,730 532% Total Annual MTCO2e 34,160 36,290 42,840 54,010 58% * State modeling only provided emissions for commercial harbor equipment for 2019. All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. According to records maintained by the California Department of Conservation’s Geologic Energy Management Division, there are no active oil or gas extraction wells in the unincorporated area. There are 16 natural gas storage wells in the hills between Clyde and Bay Point, along with an observation well. As these sites are not being used for active extraction, there are no further emissions associated with fossil fuel production at well sites in this inventory. Water and Wastewater Emissions Emissions associated with the water and wastewater sector are counted as indirect or direct emissions. Indirect water emissions refer to emissions created by the electricity required to treat and move water to where it is used. Indirect wastewater emissions refer to electricity needed to move wastewater to water treatment facilities, and to process and discharge it. Direct wastewater emissions refer to emissions produced directly by decomposing materials in wastewater. Appendix B B -16 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 GHG emissions from Contra Costa County’s water and wastewater activity decreased 40 percent between 2005 and 2019. Indirect water GHG emissions declined by 62 percent between 2005 and 2019 while indirect wastewater GHG emissions decreased by 66 percent. Community members used substantially less water (31 percent less) and generated less wastewater (30 percent less) in 2019 than in 2005 despite population growth. This is likely a result of increased water efficiency by community residents and businesses. Additionally, the electricity used in water and wastewater pumping and treatment has been increasingly supplied by renewable and carbon-free sources, decreasing GHG emissions. Direct wastewater emissions did rise by approximately 199 percent from 2005 to 2019, but given that the amount of wastewater generated declined by this period, this is likely due to changes in modeling approaches and available data. The emissions data for the unincorporated area in Table B-9 shows that overall emissions increased slightly within the water and wastewater sector. TABLE B-9: WATER AND WASTEWATER ACTIVITY DATA AND GHG EMISSIONS BY SUBSECTOR, 2005–2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005 – 2019 Activity Data Water use (million gallons) 11,530 11,650 7,380 8,010 -31% Water electricity use (kWh) 26,443,770 28,004,290 19,137,620 20,783,930 -21% Wastewater generation (million gallons) 4,560 4,610 3,150 3,170 -30% Wastewater electricity use (kWh) 6,199,120 6,198,590 4,268,050 4,295,780 -31% Emissions (MTCO2e) Indirect water 5,960 5,470 1,840 2,250 -62% Indirect wastewater 1,400 1,210 410 470 -66% Direct wastewater 720 720 2,150 2,150 199% Total Annual MTCO2e 8,080 7,400 4,400 4,870 -40% All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -17 BART Emissions Emissions associated with BART ridership decreased 82 percent between 2005 and 2019. This decline is attributable to changes in BART’s electricity portfolio, which in recent years have shifted to favor more renewable and carbon-free sources of energy. BART ridership from community members in unincorporated Contra Costa County increased 29 percent between 2005 and 2019, as shown in Table B-10. Ridership at all stations serving the unincorporated area increased by 10 to 35 percent over this period except for Pittsburg/Bay Point, which saw some of its ridership shift to Pittsburg Center and Antioch with the opening of the BART to Antioch extension in 2018. TABLE B-10: BART ACTIVITY DATA AND GHG EMISSIONS, 2005–2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005–2019 Activity Data BART Ridership (passenger miles) 11,231,870 14,228,420 15,528,840 14,444,740 29% Emissions (MTCO2e) Total Annual MTCO2e 1,040 1,320 1,440 190 -82% All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. Land Use and Sequestration GHG emissions from land use and sequestration can be either positive (a source of emissions) or negative (removing emissions from the atmosphere, creating what is known as an emissions “sink”). Natural lands and trees in urban areas absorb carbon, storing it in wood, plants, and soil. As a result, when natural land is preserved or when more trees are planted, emissions from this sector are negative because GHGs are being removed from the atmosphere. However, developing natural lands or converting them to a different form (for example, replacing forests with crop land) or removing street trees causes carbon to be released, creating GHG emissions. This sector includes emission sources and sinks from three types of activities: sequestration of GHG emissions in locally controlled forested lands, sequestration of GHG emissions in street trees in urbanized unincorporated areas, and emissions caused by permanently removing vegetation from natural lands or farmlands as a part of development. Appendix B B -18 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Emissions and sequestered amounts remained constant in both years for all three activities. Locally-controlled forests and urban trees have not had their sequestration capabilities changed by human activities during the inventory period. While there was some development activity that caused a loss of sequestered GHG emissions, records of when the development specifically occurred are not available, and so the GHG emissions have been assigned equally to both inventory years, hence the lack of changes. Forests sequestered 58,110 MTCO2e annually, while urban trees sequestered 12,750 MTCO2e, for a total carbon sink of 70,860 MTCO2e for the unincorporated area, as shown in Table B-11. TABLE B-11: LAND USE AND SEQUESTRATION ACTIVITY DATA AND GHG EMISSIONS, 2005–2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005 – 2019 Activity Data Acres of forested land 60,050 60,050 60,050 60,050 0% Acres of urban trees 32,780 32,780 32,780 32,780 0% Acres of land use changes 0 0 0 0 0% Emissions (MTCO2e) Forest sequestration -58,110 -58,110 -58,110 -58,110 0% Street tree sequestration -12,750 -12,750 -12,750 -12,750 0% Land use changes 0 0 0 0 0% Total Annual MTCO2e -70,860 -70,860 -70,860 -70,860 0% All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. Wildfire Wildfires create GHG emissions by burning organic materials such as trees and plants, releasing the carbon sequestered in these materials. Larger fires and those that burn through forested areas, as opposed to less densely vegetated ecosystems, release more GHG emissions. The County reported wildfires in the unincorporated area in 2005, 2013, and 2019, but not in 2017. The acreages and emissions of these fires for the unincorporated area are reported in Table B-12. Although wildfire emissions and acreages were lower in 2019 than in 2005, wildfire activity varies widely from year to year, and is generally expected to increase in future years due to climate change. Wildfire emissions are not calculated in the totals presented in this appendix and are for informational purposes only. Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -19 TABLE B-12: WILDFIRE ACTIVITY DATA AND GHG EMISSIONS, 2005–2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005–2019 Activity Data Acres burned 2,070 6,320 0 1,830 -31% Emissions (MTCO2e) Total Annual MTCO2e 14,270 66,080 0 10,100 -29% 2005 wildfires: Bragdon Fire, BNSF Fire, Byron Fire, Vasco Airport Fire, and an unnamed fire south of Antioch. 2013 wildfires: Kirker Fire and Morgan Fire. 2019 wildfires: Marsh 3 Fire, Marsh 5 Fire, Marsh 6 Fire. All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. Stationary Source Emissions Stationary source emissions result from fuel use, such as natural gas or propane, at large industrial facilities. These facilities include refineries, power plants, factories, and similar installations. Natural gas use at these facilities may be included as part of the nonresidential natural gas use reported by PG&E. These facilities are regulated by the State and BAAQMD, and the County does not have direct control over their operations. Emissions from these facilities are therefore not counted toward the County’s total GHG emissions. Table B-13 shows the emissions from stationary sources for the unincorporated area. This information is directly reported by the California Air Resources Board as total emissions. The Board does not report activity data for stationary sources, which would include amounts of fuel burned at these facilities. These emissions are not included in the totals presented in this memorandum and are for informational purposes only. TABLE B-13: STATIONARY SOURCE GHG EMISSIONS, 2005–2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005–2019 Emissions (MTCO2e) Total Annual MTCO2e 13,983,030 11,956,000 11,232,290 10,867,670 -22% All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. Appendix B B -20 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Direct Access Electricity Emissions PG&E provided direct access electricity data only for 2019. In 2019, Contra Costa County direct access electricity customers used 396, 805, 940 kWh of electricity, producing 74,130 MTCO2e of emissions. Direct access electricty, supplied by an ESP to large nonresidential customers, is regulated by the California Public Utilities Commission. The identities of direct access customers and the specific ESPs from which they purchase electricity are not made available to the public. Given the County’s limited ability to monitor and regulate the sale and use of direct access electricity, as well as historical inconsistences in how direct access electricity use is reported, direct access emissions are reported for informational purposes only. COUNTY OPERATIONS EMISSIONS Sectors The County operations inventory looks at GHG emissions from the following sectors: • Employee commute includes GHG emissions from County employees commuting to and from work, as well as emissions associated with business travel. • Buildings and facilities includes the electricity and natural gas use at County-owned facilities. • Government fleet includes the fuel-use from County-owned vehicles. • Government-generated solid waste includes the waste materials generated at County facilities. • Public lighting includes the electricity use for publicly owned lights, including streetlights and traffic signals. • Water and wastewater includes emissions associated with water use and wastewater generation at County facilities. • Refrigerants includes the leaks of GHGs from air conditioning systems in County- owned vehicles and buildings. Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -21 County Operations Inventory Results In 2006, Contra Costa County government operations emissions totaled 54,090 MTCO2e for the sectors reported in this inventory, as shown in Table B-14. In 2017, County government operations GHG emissions were 43,380 MTCO2e, a 20 percent decrease from 2006 levels. This decrease is primarily the result of reductions in energy use, reductions in County fleet emissions, and reductions in employee waste disposal. The 2017 inventory also includes emissions from wastewater treatment and refrigerants, which were not included in the 2006 inventory. TABLE B-14: 2006 BASELINE AND 2017 COUNTY-OPERATIONS GHG EMISSIONS SUMMARY SECTOR 2006 GHG EMISSIONS (MTCO2E) 2017 GHG EMISSIONS (MTCO2E) PERCENTAGE CHANGE Employee commute 23,530 25,800 10% Buildings and facilities 19,260 12,500 -35% Government fleet 8,500 3,430 -60% Government-generated solid waste 1,980 900 -54% Public lighting 830 440 -47% Water and wastewater Not included 220 — Refrigerants Not included 90 — Total 54,090 43,380 -20% These inventories assume 8,420 County employees in 2006 and 10,030 employees in 2017, a 19% increase. Note: All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not add up to the sum of individual rows due to rounding. COUNTY OPERATIONS GHG INVENTORY RESULTS BY SECTOR Employee Commute and Travel Tables B-15 and B-16 summarize changes in 2006 and 2017 related to employee commute activities. TABLE B-15: 2006 BASELINE AND 2017 EMPLOYEE COMMUTE AND TRAVEL EMISSIONS ACTIVITY/SOURCE 2006 MTCO2E 2017 MTCO2E PERCENTAFE CHANGE Employee commute 23,530 25,800 10% Appendix B B -22 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 TABLE B-16: 2017 EMPLOYEE COMMUTE ACTIVITY DATA AND GHG EMISSIONS ACTIVITY/SOURCE ACTIVITY DATA UNITS GHG EMISSIONS (MTCO2E) PERCENTAGE Driving alone (gas) 77,173,500 Vehicle miles 24,600 95% Driving alone (electric) 4,494,570 Vehicle miles 0 0% Carpool 1,155,500 Passenger miles 350 1% Transit (BART, bus) 641,830 Passenger miles 100 Less than 1% Motorcycle 425,050 Vehicle miles 749 3% Active transportation (walk, bike) 66,590 Miles 0 0% Telecommute 88,816 Miles 0 0% Total 84,045,860 Miles 25,800 100% Note: All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not add up to the sum of individual rows due to rounding. Although employees’ personal commute is not under the direct operational control of the County, there are a variety of tools and resources available to influence employees’ commute patterns. For this reason, emissions are included in this inventory. Employee commute accounted for in the emissions inventory includes business travel; travel via personal vehicles; carpool; alternative transportation methods, including biking and walking; air travel; and public transit. In 2017, County employees’ commute to work contributed to 25,795 MTCO2e. This is a 10 percent increase in GHG emissions from the 23,530 MTCO2e reported in 2006. Over the years, there was an increase in the number of employees from 8,420 to 10,030 between 2006 and 2017. Commute emissions reflect increased vehicle fuel efficiency, although changes in the number of employees and increases in commute distance balance that out. Buildings and Facilities The buildings and facilities sector includes electricity and natural gas use at County-owned and operated buildings and facilities. Emissions from this sector totaled 19,210 MTCO2e in 2006 and 12,500 MTCO2e in 2017 (see Table B-17), a 35 percent decrease. Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -23 TABLE B-17: 2006 BASELINE AND 2017 BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES ENERGY USE EMISSIONS SUBSECTOR 2006 MTCO2E 2017 MTCO2E PERCENTAGE CHANGE Buildings and facilities – natural gas 11,360 6,300 -44% Buildings and facilities – electricity 7,670 6,200 -19% Total 19,030 12,500 -35% Note: All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not add up to the sum of individual rows due to rounding. Government (County) Fleet The vehicles and equipment used in the County’s daily operations burn gasoline, diesel, propane, and compressed natural gas fuel, resulting in the emission of GHGs. Contra Costa’s 2017 vehicle fleet emissions totaled 3,430 MTCO2e (see Table B-18). This is a 59-percent decrease in GHG emissions from the 8,500 MTCO2e in the 2006 inventory. This is primarily the result of a decrease in on-road vehicle miles traveled and an increase in fuel efficiency between inventory years. TABLE B-18: 2006 BASELINE AND 2017 VEHICLE FLEET EMISSIONS SECTOR 2006 MTCO2E 2017 MTCO2E PERCENTAGE CHANGE Government fleet 8,500 3,430 -59% Solid Waste County operations generates solid waste during normal activity, much of which is eventually landfilled. Emissions from this sector are estimates of methane generation that will result in future years from the waste that was sent to the landfill in the inventory year. Solid waste generated by County employees contributed to a total of 900 MTCO2e in year 2017 (see Table B-19). Solid waste collected from County operations saw a reduction of 54 percent in emissions since the 2006 baseline, where this sector contributed to 1,980 MTCO2e. TABLE B-19: 2006 BASELINE AND 2017 GOVERNMENT-GENERATED SOLID WASTE SECTOR 2006 MTCO2E 2017 MTCO2E PERCENTAGE CHANGE Government-generated solid waste 1,980 900 -54% Appendix B B -24 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Public Lighting Emissions from public lighting owned by the County, such as streetlights, totaled 440 MTCO2e in 2017 (see Table B-20). This is a 47-percent decrease from the 830 MTCO2e reported in 2006. TABLE B-20: 2006 BASELINE AND 2017 PUBLIC LIGHTING SECTOR 2006 MTCO2E 2017 MTCO2E PERCENTAGE CHANGE Public lighting 830 440 -47% Water and Wastewater The water and wastewater treatment sector includes the emissions generated by the electricity needed to move and process the water used and the wastewater generated by County government facilities (indirect water and wastewater), along with direct emissions caused by the processing of County-generated wastewater. Water use and wastewater generation at County facilities generated a total of 220 MTCO2e in 2017 (see Table B-21). The water and wastewater sector was not included in the 2006 baseline inventory. TABLE B-21: 2006 BASELINE AND 2017 WASTEWATER TREATMENT SECTOR 2006 MTCO2E 2017 MTCO2E Indirect Water Not included 180 Indirect Wastewater Not included 20 Direct Wastewater Not included 20 Total Not included 240 Note: All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not add up to the sum of individual rows due to rounding. Refrigerants Vehicles and buildings with air conditioning use refrigerants that can leak from engines and appliances during normal operation and maintenance. These refrigerants are often GHGs that trap a very large amount of heat per unit of gas, known as gases with a very high global warming potential (GWP). Emissions from refrigerant leaks were accounted for in the 2017 GHG emissions inventory for County government operations. This sector was not included in the 2006 baseline inventory. Refrigerant emissions contributed to 90 MTCO2e in 2017 (see Table B-22). Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -25 TABLE B-22: 2006 BASELINE AND 2017 REFRIGERANTS SECTOR 2006 MTCO2E 2017 MTCO2E Refrigerants Not included 90 CONSUMPTION-BASED INVENTORY EMISSIONS As discussed in Chapter 3, the consumption-based inventory accounts for GHG emissions created by the goods and services used by community members of the unincorporated county, including residents, businesses, and employees. A consumption-based inventory assesses emissions associated with the manufacture, transportation, and disposal of these goods and services, regardless of where they occur. In 2015, BAAQMD worked with the Cool Climate Network at the University of California, Berkeley, to prepare a consumption-based inventory for all Bay Area jurisdictions. This inventory includes GHG emissions from the following sources: • Travel: GHG emissions from fuel use by on-road vehicles, vehicle manufacturing and repairs, public transportation, and air travel. • Housing: GHG emissions from electricity and natural gas use in homes as well as other fuels associated with home heating (such as kerosene or fuel oil), electricity emissions from water and wastewater activities, and waste emissions. This category also includes emissions from the manufacture, transportation, and construction and demolition of materials used to construct houses. • Food: GHG emissions from the growth, processing/manufacturing, and transportation of food products. • Goods: GHG emissions from the manufacture, transportation, and disposal of consumer products, such as home furnishings, appliances and electronics, clothing, and healthcare and personal items. • Services: GHG emissions from personal and business services, including entertainment and recreation, communication, education, healthcare, and maintenance and repair activities. Some of these GHG emission sources are also included in the production-based inventory prepared as part of the 2024 CAP, and others are covered by either the production-based or consumption-based inventory but not both. Table B-23 compares the sources of GHG Appendix B B -26 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 emissions in the 2024 CAAP production-based inventory and the BAAQMD/Cool Climate Network consumption-based inventory. TABLE B-23 COMPARISON OF SOURCES IN PRODUCTION-BASED AND CONSUMPTION- BASED GHG EMISSION INVENTORIES SOURCE OF EMISSIONS PRODUCTION-BASED CAAP INVENTORY BAAQMD/COOL CLIMATE NETWORK CONSUMPTION- BASED INVENTORY Generation of electricity used Included Included Combustion of natural gas used Included Included Combustion of other home heating fuels used Not included Included Fuel use from on-road vehicles Included Included Fuel use from public transportation Included Included Electricity use from BART Included Included Vehicle manufacturing and repairs Partially included* Included Air travel Not included Included Fuel use from off-road equipment, including construction and landscaping equipment Included Not included Generation of electricity used for water processing and transportation Included Included Generation of electricity used for wastewater processing and transportation Included Unknown† Direct wastewater process emissions Included Not included Landfilling of solid waste Included Included Reprocessing of recyclables Partially included* Included Compost processing Partially included* Included Manufacturing of home-construction materials Partially included* Included Food growth, processing, production, and transportation Partially included* Included Carbon sequestration in forests and street trees Included Not included Other embedded emissions in goods and services Not included Included Note: Due to differences in data sources and analysis methods, the same source of emissions in both inventories may produce different results. * Emissions from energy use, water use, and waste generation associated with these activities are included in the 2024 CAAP Update inventory if these activities occur in Contra Costa County. Emissions from these activities outside of Contra Costa County and other emissions associated with these activities in Contra Costa County are not included in the 2024 CAAP inventory. † Emissions from these activities are not explicitly called out in the BAAQMD/Cool Climate Network consumption-based inventory but may be included in the total electricity use category. Due to differences in data sources and analysis methods, the same source of emissions in both inventories may produce different results. Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -27 According to the consumption-based inventory, transportation is responsible for 15.5 MTCO2e per household, or 34 percent of emissions produced by activities conducted and goods consumed within unincorporated Contra Costa County. Food is responsible for 8.79 MTCO2e per household (19 percent), goods and services for 7.89 MTCO2e per household and 7.97 MTCO2e per household, respectively (17 percent each), and housing for 6.18 MTCO2e per household or 13 percent (see Figure B-1). FIGURE B-1. CONSUMPTION-BASED INVENTORY RESULTS 15.50 6.18 8.76 7.89 7.97 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 GHG emissions (MTCO2e per Household) Transportation Housing Food Goods Services Appendix B B -28 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Community-Wide Forecast The forecast of community-wide GHG emissions for the unincorporated area is based on the results of the 2019 community GHG emissions inventory. The project team assumed growth in these emissions consistent with the anticipated growth in unincorporated Cont ra Costa County’s future population, jobs, and development patterns, developed as part of the Envision Contra Costa buildout calculations. The project team forecast GHG emissions for the calendar years 2030 and 2045. The forecast is a “worst case” scenario that does not assume any efforts are taken, at any level, to reduce GHG emissions beyond the policies that are already in effect in 2019. For many sectors, the GHG forecast assumes that each person in the unincorporated area will continue to contribute the same amount of GHG emissions as they did in 2019, so that the amount of GHG emissions increases proportionally to demographic growth. There are some sectors that are not projected this way: • Transportation, which is projected using a regional traffic demand model based partially on demographics and partially on the location of various land uses. • Agriculture, which is forecast using future land use projections for the amount of agricultural land in the unincorporated area. • Land use and sequestration, which is forecast using future land use projections for developed land, forested land, and any agricultural and open space land that is developed. • Within the off-road equipment sector, emissions from construction and mining equipment are projected using the rate of population and job growth, emissions from industrial equipment are projected using future land use projections for industrial land, and emissions from Transportation Refrigeration Units are projected using the proportion of county-wide road miles in the unincorporated area. The forecast does not project any change in activity or GHG emissions for alternative home heating fuels (propane, kerosene, and wood), direct access electricity, cargo-handling equipment, or oil drilling equipment. Additionally, emissions for the two informational sectors (stationary sources and wildfires) are not forecasted, owing to their informational and substantial uncertainty in projecting future activities for these sectors. These GHG emissions do not have a demographic indicator that staff can use to reasonably project the volume of these emissions in the future, particularly given that they are informational Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -29 items and not included in the total community-wide emissions. Table B-23 shows the demographic projections and their sources for the unincorporated area. TABLE B-23: DEMOGRAPHIC PROJECTIONS, 2019 – 2045 DEMOGRAPHIC 2019 2030 2045 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2019-2045 SOURCE Population 174,150 199,360 239,720 38% ABAG/MTC, Envision Contra Costa Households 60,320 69,210 83,500 38% ABAG/MTC, Envision Contra Costa Jobs 38,760 42,480 48,150 24% US Census Bureau, Envision Contra Costa Service population* 212,910 241,840 287,870 35% ABAG/MTC, US Census Bureau, Envision Contra Costa * Service population is the sum of population and jobs All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Table B-24 shows unincorporated Contra Costa County’s projected future GHG emissions relative to the 2019 inventory. Most sectors show an increase in GHG emissions due to the growing population. Agricultural emissions decrease because the amount of land use for agricultural purposes is projected to decline. Although the land use and sequestration sector is expected to remain a net carbon sink (negative emissions), the amount of emissions sequestered (removed from the atmosphere) by the activities in this sector are projected to decline. This is due to anticipated development of currently undeveloped land, removing the potential for this land to sequester carbon. Sequestration in forested and urbanized areas is projected to increase slightly. Appendix B B -30 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 TABLE B-24: ABSOLUTE BUSINESS-AS-USUAL GHG EMISSIONS FORECAST, 2019–2045 SECTOR 2019 MTCO2E 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2019–2045 Transportation 464,040 542,020 605,080 30% Residential energy 191,780 217,710 259,380 35% Nonresidential energy 85,590 93,590 106,070 24% Solid waste 220,760 229,450 260,490 18% Agriculture 36,130 34,770 33,410 -8% Off-road equipment 54,010 69,520 76,100 41% Water and wastewater 4,870 5,530 6,590 35% BART 190 220 260 37% Land use and sequestration -70,860 -67,580 -58,890 -17% Total Annual MTCO2e 986,310 1,125,230 1,288,490 31% All values rounded to the nearest 10. Due to rounding, totals may not equal the sum of the individual values. Quantification STATE AND REGIONAL GHG EMISSION REDUCTIONS FROM EXISTING ACTIONS California has adopted and is committed to implementing policies that reduce statewide GHG emissions, including those in Contra Costa County. Many of these policies are laid out in the Climate Change Scoping Plan (Scoping Plan), a state document that outlines regulatory and market-based solutions to achieving California’s GHG emission reduction goals. The Scoping Plan was first prepared in 2008, with successive updates in 2014, 2017, and 2022. These updates revised the state-level actions and identified additional opportunities for GHG emission reductions. The Scoping Plan and related documents lay out several policies to reduce California’s GHG emissions, although not all are directly applicable to Contra Costa County. The project team has assessed Contra Costa County’s GHG emissions and identified five Sstate policies that are direclty relevant to the community. This allows the 2024 CAAP to provide “credit” to Contra Costa County for these policies. These Sstate efforts are: • The Renewables Portfolio Standard (RPS), which requires increases in renewable and carbon-free electricity supplies. RPS was first established in 2002 and has been amended multiple times, most recently by SB 100 in 2018. It requires all electricity Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -31 providers in the state to obtain at least 33 percent of their electricity from eligible renewable resources by the end of 2020, 60 percent of their electricity from eligible renewable resources by the end of 2030, and all of their electricity from carbon-free (although not necessarily eligible renewable) resources by the end of 2045. This policy reduces GHG emission from electricity use, including electricity used to transport and process water and wastewater, and electricity used for electric vehicles. • The Clean Car Standards, which require increased fuel efficiency of on-road vehicles and decreased carbon intensity of vehicle fuels. In 2002, California adopted AB 1493, the New Passenger Motor Vehicle Greenhouse Gas Emission Standards or Pavley standard. It required a reduction in tailpipe GHG emissions from new vehicles produced from 2009 to 2015. In 2012 CARB adopted an extension of this policy, the Advanced Clean Car Standards, which requires more stringent reductions in tailpipe GHG emissions from vehicles produced from 2016 to 2025. The Clean Car Standards reduce GHG emissions from on-road transportation. In August 2022, CARB adopted another expansion of these standards, known as the Advanced Clean Cars II standards. This regulation requires that all new light-duty vehicles (e.g., passenger cars, small trucks, and SUVs) sold in the state to be zero-emission by 2035, with interim targets for new light-duty vehicle sales beginning in 2026. There are some limited exceptions for plug-in hybrid vehicles. CARB adopted similar rules for heavy-duty vehicles and state and local government fleets in 2020 (Advanced Clean Trucks) and 2023 (Advanced Clean Fleets). Advanced Clean Cars II and Advanced Clean Fleets are not included in the modeling used to assess GHG reductions from the Clean Car Standards. These GHG reductions are counted as part of the reductions associated with Strategy TR-2. • The updated Title 24 building energy efficiency standards require new buildings to achieve increased energy-efficiency targets. The latest version of these standards is set to go into effect January 1, 2023. California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 6 is California’s energy efficiency standards for new and renovated buildings, applied at the local level through the project review and building permit process. The standards are strengthened every three years, with the ultimate goal of making new buildings net- zero energy, meaning that they would generate as much energy as they use. The most recent set of Title 24 standards went into effect on January 1, 2020. On August 11, 2021, the California Energy Commission (CEC) adopted the 2022 Title 24 standards. In December, it was approved by the California Building Standards Commission for inclusion into the California Building Standards Code. The 2022 Title 24 standards encourage efficient electric heat pumps, establish electric-ready requirements for new homes, expand solar photovoltaic and battery storage standards, and strengthen Appendix B B -32 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 ventilation standards. Buildings whose permit applications are applied for on or after January 1, 2023, must comply with the 2022 Title 24 standards. • The Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) mandates reduced carbon intensity of fuels used in off-road equipment. The Low Carbon Fuel Standard was adopted in 2009 and required a 10 percent reduction in the carbon intensity of all transportation and equipment fuels by 2020. This policy reduces GHG emissions from on-road transportation and from off-road equipment. The LCFS has since been revised several times, most recently in 2020. The 2020 LCFS requires further reductions in carbon intensity of around 1.25 percent every year until 2030. • The Short-Lived Climate Pollutant Reduction Strategy, also known as Senate Bill (SB) 1383, requires that communities divert 75 percent of organic waste (food scraps, grass, and plant trimmings, etc.) away from landfills and toward alternatives such as composting or energy generation. As a part of this requirement, all jurisdictions must offer curbside composting to single-family and small multifamily properties (less than five units). Larger multifamily properties and businesses must either participate in curbside composting or subscribe to self-haul organic waste to a composting program or collection site. SB 1383 also includes requirements related to diverting surplus food to people in need, increasing the use of products made from recycled organics, and providing more detailed reporting statistics. • Renewable Natural Gas assumes that biomethane and renewable hydrogen fuels will be blended into the fossil gas pipeline and that, in the 2030s, dedicated hydrogen pipelines will be constructed to serve certain industrial clusters. In addition to these five state-level policies, the County’s default electricity provider, MCE, has also taken action to reduce the GHG emissions from the electricity it supplies to Contra Costa community members, beyond the minimum required by RPS. In 2019, MCE electricity was approximately 60 percent renewable and 90 percent carbon-free. In 2023, MCE sourced over 95 percent of its electricity from carbon-free sources. Since MCE supplies more electricity from carbon-free sources than RPS requires it to, the County can receive “credit” for the GHG reductions that result from going beyond the State mininum. The County also enacted an all-electric reach code (suspended in February 2024), which required many types of new buildings to be built using only electricity, not use natural gas, thereby reducing GHG emissions associated with residential and nonresidential energy. The County is developing a new ordinance that will support high levels of energy efficiency and low levels of GHG emissions for new construction. This ordinance is expected to take Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -33 effect on January 1, 2025, and will be updated during future revisions to the Building Standards Code. Overall, these existing policies are expected to reduce Contra Costa County’s future GHG emissions. Without these policies in place, community-wide GHG emissions in the unincorporated area are expected to be approximatley 1,300,320 MTCO2e by 2045, or 289 percent above 2019 levels. With these polices enacted, community-wide GHG absolute emissions in the unincorporated area are projected to be approximately 874,42036,100 MTCO2e by 2045, or 187 percent below 2019 levels. Table B-25 shows the absolute reductions achieved by these policies. TABLE B-25: GHG EMISSION REDUCTIONS FROM EXISTING AND PLANNED STATE, REGIONAL, AND LOCAL ACTIONS (2019–2045) 2019 2030 2045 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2019–2045 Forecast emissions without state and regional actions 986,310 1,125,230 1,288,490 31% Reductions from RPS - -24,620 -115,400 - Reductions from Clean Car standards - -110,250 -214,120 - Reductions from Title 24 - -9,880 31,600 - Reductions from LCFS (off-road only)* - -740 7,430 - Reductions from SB 1383 - -21,880 -53,870 - Reductions from renewable natural gas -18,460 -78,050 Reductions from MCE clean energy procurement - -1,240 - - Reductions from all-electric reach code (suspended February 2024) - -3,150 -2,590 - Reductions from all existing and planned state and regional actions - -188,740 -488,200 - Emissions with all existing and planned state and regional actions 986,310 957,470 874,420 -11% Note: All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Due to rounding, totals may not equal the sum of the individual values. * Due to the methods used in the forecast and assessment of state GHG reduction potential, future projections for off-road equipment GHG emissions are higher than forecast above. Appendix B B -34 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 TECHNICAL DATA FOR GHG REDUCTION STRATEGIES This section discusses the data sources, methods, and assumptions for the quantification of the GHG-reduction strategies included in the Contra Costa County 2024 CAAP. In addition to the sources presented here, these calculations also rely on the GHG inventory and forecast. These calculations rely on emission factors that reflect the reductions already achieved by the existing actions discussed in the previous section. Table B-26 shows these emission factors. TABLE B-26: EMISSION FACTORS WITH EXISTING ACTIONS (2019–2045) ACTIVITY TYPE UNITS 2019 2030 2045 Electricity (PG&E) MTCO2e/kWh 0.000108 0.000077 0.000000 Electricity (MCE) MTCO2e/kWh 0.000045 0.000044 0.000000 Electricity (direct access) MTCO2e/kWh 0.000187 0.000134 0.000000 Electricity (PG&E and MCE) MTCO2e/kWh 0.000054 0.000047 0.000000 Natural gas MTCO2e/Therms 0.005310 0.005311 0.005310 Propane MTCO2e/Gallons 0.005845 0.005845 0.005845 Kerosene MTCO2e/Gallons 0.010417 0.010417 0.010417 Wood MTCO2e/MMBTU 0.095664 0.095664 0.095664 On-road transportation MTCO2e/VMT 0.000408 0.000325 0.000408 Solid waste (MSW) MTCO2e/Tons 0.261659 0.261678 0.261676 Solid waste (ADC) MTCO2e/Tons 0.245383 0.245132 0.245854 Solid waste (combined) MTCO2e/Tons 0.004628 0.003958 0.260191 BART MTCO2e/Passenger miles 0.000013 0.000008 0.000013 For each strategy, this appendix discusses the following items: • The savings in activity data (e.g., kWh of electricity or tons of solid waste) in 2030 and 2045 resulting from implementing the strategy as described. A negative value indicates an increase in activity data. • The decreases in GHG emissions in 2030 and 2045 resulting from implementing the strategy as described. • The assumptions made about the strategy’s performance, such as the level of community participation required to achieve the specified reductions by 2030 and 2045. • The performance targets, which are quantifiable metrics about the projected level of success the strategy must meet to achieve the specified reductions by 2030 and 2045. Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -35 • Sources: Key studies, analyses, and other sources of data used to inform the quantification. This does not include the GHG inventory, forecast, or other technical analyses prepared as part of the 2024 CAAP or the 2045 Contra Costa General Plan. CLEAN AND EFFICIENT BUILT ENVIRONMENT Strategy BE-1: Require and incentivize new buildings and additions built in unincorporated Contra Costa County to be low-carbon or carbon neutral. ACTIVITY DATA SAVINGS ACTIVITY DATA TYPE 2030 2045 Natural gas savings (therms) 889,870 2,754,380 Electricity savings (kWh) -1,198,930 -6,086,080 GHG SAVINGS 2030 MTCO2E 20545 MTCO2E GHG reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 4,340 10,970 KEY ASSUMPTIONS 2030 2045 Cumulative percentage of residential new construction influenced by EDR code (once implemented)built to be all-electric 95% 95% Cumulative percentage of new eligible nonresidential office construction influenced by EDR code (once implemented)built to be all-electric 95% 95% Cumulative percentage of new nonresidential buildings eligible for EDR code non-office commercial construction built to be all-electric 50% 50% Year EDR reach code is first implementedCumulative % new non- residential buildings that are office space: 2025 2025 PERFORMANCE TARGETS 2030 2045 Number of new EDR-compliant all-electric residential units 8,450 22,020 Number of new EDR-compliantall-electric commercial buildings 140 360 Appendix B B -36 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 SOURCES American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE). 2015. “ASHRAE Technical FAQ”. California Energy Commission. 2006. 2006 California Commercial End-Use Survey (CEUS). https://www.energy.ca.gov/datB-reports/surveys/californiB-commercial-end-use- survey/2006-californiB-commercial-end-use-survey. Frontier Energy, Inc, Misti Bruceri & Associates, LLC. 2023. “2022 Cost-Effectiveness Study: Single Family New Construction.” Frontier Energy, Inc, Misti Bruceri & Associates, LLC. 2023. “2022 Cost-Effectiveness Study: Multifamily New Construction.” Goyal, A., Farahmand, F., TRC Companies, Inc. 2023. “Nonresidential New Construction Reach Code Cost-effectivness Study.” Greenblatt, J.B. 2015. “Modeling California policy impacts on greenhouse gas emissions.” https://eta-publications.lbl.gov/sites/default/files/lbnl-7008e.pdf. Strategy BE-2: Retrofit existing buildings and facilities in the unincorporated County, and County infrastructure, to reduce energy use and convert to low-carbon or carbon-neutral free fuels. In March 2023, BAAQMD adopted amendments to Regulation 9, Rules 4 and 6. These revisions require that, when existing natural-gas-powered space heaters and water heaters reach the end of their operational life, they be replaced with electric-powered models. These requirements are scheduled to take effect in 2027 to 2031 for water heaters (depending on the capacity of the unit) and in 2029 for space heaters. ACTIVITY DATA SAVINGS ACTIVITY DATA TYPE 2030 2045 Electricity savings (kWh) – With BAAQMD rule 100,583,970 190,187,380 Natural gas savings (therms) – With BAAQMD rule 6,596,190 16,882,720 Propane savings (gallons) – With BAAQMD rule 130,620 344,450 Gallons kerosene 2,090 5,500 MMBTU wood 13,010 34,300 GHG SAVINGS WITH BAAQMD RULE 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E GHG reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 55,990 156,150 Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -37 KEY ASSUMPTIONS 2030 2045 Percentage of existing homes conducting standard retrofits 20% 40% Percentage of existing homes upgrading to Title 24 Standards 20% 40% Percentage of existing mobile homes conducting standard retrofits 30% 60% Percentage of businesses conducting standard retrofits (not including fuel switching) 15% 25% Percentage of businesses retrofitting to current Title 24 standards (not including fuel switching) 15% 25% Cumulative percentage of homes electrifying water heaters (BAAQMD compliance) 15% 85% Cumulative percentage of homes electrifying space heaters (BAAQMD compliance) 10% 90% Cumulative percentage of businesses electrifying water heaters (BAAQMD compliance) Less than 10% 70% Cumulative percentage of businesses electrifying space heaters (BAAQMD compliance) 5% 90% Percentage of commercial buildings covered by BAAQMD rules 50% 50% Cumulative percentage of homes electrifying cooking appliances 5% 65% Cumulative percentage of homes electrifying clothes drying appliances 10% 80% Cumulative percentage of businesses electrifying cooking appliances 5% 60% PERFORMANCE TARGETS 2030 2045 Number of housing units undergoing energy efficiency retrofits 14,160 28,310 Number of housing units renovated brought up to current Title 24 energy efficiency standards 13,210 26,430 Number of commercial buildings undergoing energy efficiency retrofits 490 820 Number of commercial buildings brought uprenovated to current Title 24 energy efficiency standards 490 820 SOURCES American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE). 2015. “ASHRAE Technical FAQ”. Appendix B B -38 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 California Energy Commission. 2006. 2006 California Commercial End-Use Survey (CEUS). https://www.energy.ca.gov/datB-reports/surveys/californiB-commercial-end-use- survey/2006-californiB-commercial-end-use-survey. California Energy Commission. 2014. Impact Evaluation of the California Comprehensive Residential Retrofit Programs. California Energy Commission. 2021. 2019 California Residential Appliance Saturation Study (RASS). https://www.energy.ca.gov/datB-reports/surveys/2019-residential-appliance- saturation-study. California Public Utilities Commission. 2017. Final Report: 2015 Home Upgrade Program Impact Evaluation. https://www.calmac.org/publications/RES_5.1_HUP_FINAL_REPORT_ATR_06-30-17.pdf. Martin, E. Sutherland, K., Parker, D. 2016. “Measured Performance of Heat Pump Clothes Dryers.” https://www.aceee.org/files/proceedings/2016/data/papers/1_160.pdf. Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. 2011. “Advanced Energy Retrofit Guides: Office Buildings.” https://www.pnnl.gov/main/publications/external/technical_reports/PNNL- 20761.pdf. Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. 2011. “Advanced Energy Retrofit Guides: Retail Buildings.” https://www.pnnl.gov/main/publications/external/technical_reports/PNNL- 20814.pdf. US Department of Energy. n.d. “Energy-Efficient Manufactured Homes.” https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/energy-efficient-manufactured-homes. Strategy BE-3: Increase the amount of electricity used and generated from renewable sources in the county. ACTIVITY DATA SAVINGS ACTIVITY DATA TYPE 2030 2045 Electricity savings (kWh) 114,969,980 271,666,080 GHG SAVINGS 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E GHG reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 10,8320 0 Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -39 KEY ASSUMPTIONS 2030 2045 Percentage of existing homes installing solar energy systems 15% 35% Percentage of existing homes with solar energy systems and installing battery storage systems 20% 50% Percentage of new homes installing battery storage systems 40% 60% Percentage of existing businesses installing solar energy systems 3% 11% Percentage of existing businesses with solar energy systems and battery storage systems 15% 45% Percentage of residents enrolling in MCE 90% 90% Percentage of businesses enrolling in MCE 90% 90% Percentage of residents enrolling in 100% renewable tiers 10% 30% Percentage of businesses enrolling in 100% renewable tiers 5% 20% Percentage of direct access customers switching to MCE 5% 10% PERFORMANCE TARGETS 2030 2045 Residential solar systems installed 9,190 23,030 Residential battery systems installed 5,330 0 Nonresidential solar systems installed 30 290 Nonresidential battery systems installed 10 0 Residential electricity supplied by MCE (kWh) 272,202,760 292,636,220 Residential electricity provided at Deep Green tier (kWh) 25,842,700 83,347,910 Nonresidential electricity provided by MCE (kWh) 219,413,250 220,477,040 Nonresidential electricity provided at Deep Green tier (kWh) 10,533,730 42,339,190 SOURCES California Distributed Generation Statistics. 2021. Interconnected Project Sites, 2021-09-30 [data set]. https://www.californiadgstats.ca.gov/archives/interconnection_rule21_projects/. MCE. 2020. Operational Integrated Resource Plan, 2021- 2030. https://www.mcecleanenergy.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/MCE-Operational- Integrated-Resource-Plan_2021.pdf. National Renewable Energy Laboratory. n.d. “PVWatts”. https://pvwatts.nrel.gov/. Appendix B B -40 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 NO WASTE CONTRA COSTA Strategy NW-1: Increase composting of organic waste. ACTIVITY DATA SAVINGS ACTIVITY DATA TYPE 2030 2045 Waste savings (tons) 5,580 9,190 GHG SAVINGS 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E GHG reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 2,240 4,000 KEY ASSUMPTIONS 2030 2045 Current compost diversion rate 77% 77% Target compost diversion rate 90% 95% PERFORMANCE TARGETS 2030 2045 Number of households with composting service 62,290 79,330 Number of businesses with composting service 2,930 3,510 SOURCES California Air Resources Board. 2011. Landfill Methane Emissions Tool [data table]. https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/documents/landfill-methane-emissions-tool. California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery. 2019. “Residential Waste Stream by Material Type”. https://www2.calrecycle.ca.gov/WasteCharacterization/ResidentialStreams?lg=7&cy=7. California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery. 2019. “Waste Characterization Tool for California Jurisdictions”. https://www2.calrecycle.ca.gov/WasteCharacterization/. Contra Costa County. 2020. Climate Action Plan Progress Report for 2020. https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_12142020-3083. Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -41 Strategy NW-2: Reduce waste from County operations. ACTIVITY DATA SAVINGS ACTIVITY DATA TYPE 2030 2045 Waste savings (tons) 2,630 3,510 GHG SAVINGS 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E GHG reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 1,090 1,620 KEY ASSUMPTIONS 2030 2045 Target composting diversion rate for County activities 85% 95% Target recycling diversion rate for County activities 85% 95% PERFORMANCE TARGETS 2030 2045 Weekly average cubic yards of composted organics (uncompacted) 1,050 1,140 Weekly average cubic yards of recycled materials (uncompacted) 270 300 SOURCES California Air Resources Board. 2011. Landfill Methane Emissions Tool [data table]. https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/documents/landfill-methane-emissions-tool. California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery. 2019. “Residential Waste Stream by Material Type.” https://www2.calrecycle.ca.gov/WasteCharacterization/ResidentialStreams?lg=7&cy=7. California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery. 2019. “Waste Characterization Tool for California Jurisdictions”. https://www2.calrecycle.ca.gov/WasteCharacterization/. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. 2006. “2006 IPCC Guidelines for National Greenhouse Gas Inventories.” https://www.ipcc-nggip.iges.or.jp/public/2006gl/index.html. Appendix B B -42 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Strategy NW-3: Increase community-wide recycling and waste programs. ACTIVITY DATA SAVINGS ACTIVITY DATA TYPE 2030 2045 Waste savings (tons) 5,560 16,770 GHG SAVINGS 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E GHG reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 520 2,530 KEY ASSUMPTIONS 2030 2045 Target community diversion rate 77% 85% Decrease in non-organic and non-recyclable waste tonnage 20% 50% PERFORMANCE TARGETS 2030 2045 Reduction in landfilled recyclables (tons) 0 1,280 Decrease in non-compostable/recyclable tonnage (tons) 5,560 15,490 Pounds of waste per person per day 2.08 1.85 SOURCES California Air Resources Board. 2011. Landfill Methane Emissions Tool [data table]. https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/documents/landfill-methane-emissions-tool. California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery. 2019. “Residential Waste Stream by Material Type”. https://www2.calrecycle.ca.gov/WasteCharacterization/ResidentialStreams?lg=7&cy=7. California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery. 2019. “Waste Characterization Tool for California Jurisdictions”. https://www2.calrecycle.ca.gov/WasteCharacterization/. United States Environmental Protection Agency. 2016. Volume-to-Weight Conversion Factors. https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2016- 04/documents/volume_to_weight_conversion_factors_memorandum_04192016_508fnl.pdf. Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -43 Strategy NW-4: Reduce emissions from landfill gas. GHG SAVINGS 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E GHG reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 57,460 61,410 KEY ASSUMPTIONS 2030 2045 Current methane capture rate 75% 75% Future methane capture rate (Keller and Acme only) 85% 85% Decrease in flared landfill gas 15% 30% PERFORMANCE TARGETS 2030 2045 Methane capture rate at Keller and Acme landfills 15% 30% Tons of flared landfill gas 5,460 4,330 SOURCES Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development. 2020. “Attachment 8: November 2020 Draft MND SCH #2020100267.” http://64.166.146.245/docs/2021/BOS/20210713_1776/46178_8%20November%202020%2 0Draft%20MND%20SCH%20%232020100267.pdf. REDUCE WATER USE AND INCREASE DROUGHT RESILIENCE Strategy DR-1: Reduce indoor and outdoor water use. ACTIVITY DATA SAVINGS ACTIVITY DATA TYPE 2030 2045 Electricity savings (kWh) 1,436,210 2,560,780 Water (MG) 360 650 GHG SAVINGS 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E GHG reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 970 1,440 Appendix B B -44 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 KEY ASSUMPTIONS 2030 2045 Percentage of existing homes with graywater systems 5% 20% Percentage of existing businesses with graywater systems 2% 10% Percentage of existing homes retrofitting water fixtures 60% 90% Percentage of existing businesses retrofitting water fixtures 60% 90% Percentage of new homes with graywater systems 10% 35% Percentage of new businesses with graywater systems 5% 20% PERFORMANCE TARGETS 2030 2045 Number of residential graywater system installations 3,910 20,180 Number of commercial graywater systems installations 70 440 Number of nonresidential buildings receiving water efficiency upgrades 1,790 2,680 Number of residential buildings receiving water efficiency upgrades 36,190 54,290 SOURCES Environmental Protection Agency. 2009. “Water Efficiency in the Commercial and Institutional Sector: Considerations for a WaterSense Program.” https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2017-03/documents/ws-commercial-ci- whitepaper.pdf State of California, Natural Resources Agency, Department of Water Resources. 2014. “California Water Plan Update 2013.” State of California, Natural Resources Agency, Department of Water Resources. 2019. “California Water Plan Update 2018.” https://water.ca.gov/-/media/DWR-Website/Web- Pages/Programs/CaliforniB-Water-Plan/Docs/Update2018/Final/CaliforniB-Water-Plan- Update-2018.pdf Water Research Foundation. 2016. “Residential End Uses of Water Study, Version 2: Executive Report.” Strategy DR-2: Ensure sustainable and diverse water supplies. This is a supportive measure that does not result in direct measureable GHG emissions. There are no activity or GHG savings, assumptions, performance indicators, or sources associated with this measure. Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -45 CLEAN TRANSPORTATION NETWORK Strategy TR-1: Improve the viability of walking, biking, zero-emission commuting, and using public transit for travel within, to, and from the county. ACTIVITY DATA SAVINGS ACTIVITY DATA TYPE 2030 2045 Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) 52,447,950 153,067,310 GHG SAVINGS 2030 MTCO2E 20545MTCO2E GHG reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 17,050 40,370 KEY ASSUMPTIONS 2030 2045 Miles of bicycle lanes 45 132 Average round trip length for bicyclee trips (miles) 2.1 2.1 Is bike parking provided in most nonresidential locations? Yes Yes Percentage% increase in combined housing units/acre due to TOD 15% 63% Percentage% increase in jobs/acre due to TOD 10% 45% Percentage increase in transit frequency 5% 15% Level of implementation (increase in transit frequency) 10% 25% Percentage increase in transit service miles 5% 15% Percentage of employers participating in TDM 5% 20% Average trip reduction from voluntary TDM participation 15% 45% Percentage of county with expanded sidewalks 5% 15% Change in percentage of households that have access to electric bike sharing 5% 9% Percentage of multifamily units permanently designated as affordable 5% 15% Percentage of transit routes that receive supportive treatments 1% 2% Appendix B B -46 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 PERFORMANCE TARGETS 2030 2045 Miles of bicycle lanes 50 130 Bicycle mode share 1% 1% Bus ridership (commute share) 5% 15% BART ridership (passenger miles) 17,227,850 22,459,900 VMT reduction from TDM programs 1,705,370 25,757,280 New affordable multifamily units 70 540 Percentage of transit routes that receive supportive treatments 1% 2% Change in percentage of households that have access to electric bike sharing 5% 9% SOURCES California Air Pollution Control Officers Association. 2010. “Quantifying Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Measures.” http://www.aqmd.gov/docs/default-source/ceqa/handbook/capcoB- quantifying-greenhouse-gas-mitigation-measures.pdf. Contra Costa Transportation Authority. 2018. “Contra Costa Countywide Bicycle Pedestrian Plan.” https://ccta.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/5b8ec26192756.pdf. US Census. “Contra Costa County 2019 ACS 5-Year Estimates, Table B08006.” Strategy TR-2: Increase the use of zero-emissions vehicles. Transition to a zero-emission County fleet by 2035 and a community fleet that is at least 50 percent zero-emission by 2030. ACTIVITY DATA SAVINGS ACTIVITY DATA TYPE 2030 2045 Electricity used (kWh) -111,003,180 -260,019,140 Natural gas (gallons) 2,760 5,450 Diesel (gallons) 530,690 1,353,420 VMT 14,260 14,260 GHG SAVINGS 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E GHG reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 148,000 343,890 Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -47 KEY ASSUMPTIONS 2030 2045 Percentage of cCounty vehicles that are zero-emission 80% 95% Percentage of community fleet that is zero-emission (light-duty) 35% 85% Target percentage of total community TNC VMT from electric vehicles 75% 90% Percentage of community fleet that is zero-emission (heavy-duty) 10% 70% Target percentage total commercial Natural Gas VMT replaced by biomethane 2% 5% Target percentage total commercial Diesel VMT replaced by biomethane 5% 15% Percentage of lawn and garden fuel use converted to electric 30% 80% Percentage construction equipment fuel use converted to electric 30% 60% Percentage other commercial fuel use converted to electric 20% 55% Number of EVs in EV car sharing 50 100 PERFORMANCE TARGETS 2030 2045 New VMT from electric vehicles, community-wide, including municipal operations 325,676,160 968,702,100 Reduction in municipal vehicle gasoline use (gallons) 230,120 250,030 New VMT from electric vehicles, TNC 82,961,910 101,629,820 Reduction in offroad gasoline use (gallons) 2,113,740 0 Reduction in offroad diesel use (gallons) 3,625,240 0 Increase in biomethane VMT 3,003,670 8,050,840 Number of EVs in car sharing 50 100 SOURCES California Air Pollution Control Officers Association. 2010. “Quantifying Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Measures.” http://www.aqmd.gov/docs/default-source/ceqa/handbook/capcoB- quantifying-greenhouse-gas-mitigation-measures.pdf. California Air Resources Board. 2010. “Local Government Operations Protocol For the quantification and reporting of greenhouse gas emissions inventories.” https://ww3.arb.ca.gov/cc/protocols/localgov/pubs/lgo_protocol_v1_1_2010-05-03.pdf. California Air Resources Board. 2020. “2020 Emissions Model for Small Off-Road Engines – SORE2020.” https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2020- 09/SORE2020_Technical_Documentation_2020_09_09_Final_Cleaned_ADA.pdf. California Air Resources Board. 2021. “Handbook for Analyzing Greenhouse Gas Emission Reductions, Assessing Climate Vulnerabilities, and Advancing Health and Equity.” Appendix B B -48 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 https://www.airquality.org/ClimateChange/Documents/Handbook%20Public%20Draft_2021 -Aug.pdf. California Air Resources Board. 2021. EMFAC2021 V1.0.1 Emission Inventory. https://arb.ca.gov/emfac/emissions-inventory/. Contra Costa Transportation Authority. 2018. “Contra Costa Countywide Bicycle Pedestrian Plan.” https://ccta.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/5b8ec26192756.pdf. Contra Costa Transportation Authority. 2019. “Contra Costa Electric Vehicle Readiness Blueprint.” https://ccta.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/CCTB-EV-Blueprint.pdf. US Department of Energy. 2021. “FuelEconomy.gov”. https://fueleconomy.gov/. Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 B -49 RESILIENT COMMUNITIES AND NATURAL INFRASTRUCTURE Strategy NI-4: Sequester carbon on natural and working lands in Contra Costa County. ACTIVITY DATA SAVINGS There are no activity data savings associated with this strategy. GHG SAVINGS 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E GHG reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 22,630 88,910 KEY ASSUMPTIONS 2030 2045 Percentage of irrigated crops with seasonal cover crops 15% 35% Percentage of irrigated crops practicing mulching 5% 35% Percentage of irrigated crops with compost application 15% 80% Percentage of irrigated crops with field borders 2% 8% Percentage of irrigated crops practicing alley cropping 10% 30% Percentage of irrigated crops with conservation crop rotation 25% 50% Percentage of irrigated crops practicing reduced tillage 15% 35% Percentage of irrigated crops practicing no tillage 5% 10% Percentage of orchards/vineyards with seasonal cover crops 5% 25% Percentage of orchards/vineyards practicing mulching 5% 25% Percentage of orchards/vineyards with compost application 15% 80% Percentage of orchards/vineyards with windbreaks 0% 2% Percentage of orchards with reduced tilling 10% 35% Percentage of vineyards with reduced tilling 10% 35% Percentage of pastures and rangeland with compost application 5% 15% Percentage of pastures and rangeland with prescribed grazing 15% 40% Percentage of pastures and rangeland practicing oak restoration 1% 5% Percentage of pastures and rangeland practicing riparian restoration 0% 1.2% Percentage of rangeland with range planting 2% 10% Percentage of grasslands with native grass restoration 2% 10% Percentage of forested areas undergoing annual fuel reduction 5% 25% Appendix B B -50 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 PERFORMANCE TARGETS 2030 2045 Acres of irrigated crops with seasonal cover crops 3,770 8,130 Acres of irrigated crops practicing mulching 1,260 8,130 Acres of irrigated crops with compost application 3,770 18,590 Acres of irrigated crops with field borders 500 1,860 Acres of irrigated crops converted due to alley cropping 510 1,480 Acres of irrigated crops with conservation crop rotation 6,280 11,620 Acres of irrigated crops practicing reduced tillage 3,770 8,130 Acres of irrigated crops practicing no tillage 1,260 2,320 Acres of orchards or vineyards with seasonal cover crops 220 1,060 Acres of orchards or vineyards practicing mulching 220 1,060 Acres of orchards or vineyards with compost application 660 3,380 Acres of orchards or vineyards with windbreaks - 80 Acres of orchards with reduced tilling 250 790 Acres of vineyards with reduced tilling 210 690 Acres of pastures and rangeland with compost application 7,430 21,430 Acres of pastures and rangeland with prescribed grazing 22,300 57,140 Acres of pastures and rangeland practicing oak restoration 1,490 7,140 Acres of pastures and rangeland practicing riparian restoration - 1,710 Acres of rangeland with range planting 2,870 13,780 Acres of grasslands with native grass restoration 2,610 13,150 Acres of forested areas undergoing annual fuel reduction 3,030 15,250 SOURCES California Air Resources Board. 2010. “Local Government Operations Protocol For the quantification and reporting of greenhouse gas emissions inventories.” https://ww3.arb.ca.gov/cc/protocols/localgov/pubs/lgo_protocol_v1_1_2010-05-03.pdf. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN APPENDIX C: VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -1 In January 2019, Contra Costa County prepared a Vvulnerability Aassessment in compliance with Section 65302 of the California Government Code in order to identify key vulnerable assets and populations within the cCounty and set the groundwork for short- and long- term adaptation efforts. This Vvulnerability Aassessment highlighted the cCounty’s potential vulnerabilities to agricultural pests and diseases, changes in air quality, drought, extreme heat, flooding, fog, human health hazards, landslides and debris flows, severe storms, sea level rise, shoreline flooding, and wildfire. METHOD The Vulnerability Assessment follows the recommended process in the California Adaptation Planning Guide (APG). The APG suggests vulnerability assessments follow a four- step process, including the following steps, as shown in Figure C-1: • Identify Exposure. Exposure is the presence of people; infrastructure; natural systems; and economic, cultural, and social resources in areas subject to harm from hazardous conditions. A hazard, or climate hazard, is an event or physical condition that has the potential to cause types of harm or loss. The project team looked at the exposure of different populations and assets to specific climate change hazards. • Analyze Sensitivity and Potential Impacts. Sensitivity is the level to which changing climate conditions affect a species, natural system, community, government, etc. Potential impacts are the effects of a climate change hazard, or the combination of exposure and sensitivity. The project team first identified which hazard would likely affect particular populations and assets because not all hazards will affect all populations or assets. For example, human health hazards are likely to affect most populations, but they would not affect the structural stability of a bridge or a dam. The project team then evaluated the severity of the impacts from the climate change hazard, to generate an impact score ranging from High (most severe) to Low (least severe). Appendix C C -2 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 • Evaluate Adaptive Capacity. Adaptive capacity is the ability of people and assets to adjust to potential damage from climate change hazards, to take advantage of existing opportunities such as funding, tools, and resources, or to respond to the impacts of climate change. The project team evaluated the adaptive capacity of each population or asset for each applicable identified hazard. As with impact scoring, the project team scored the adaptive capacity of populations or assets ranging from High (more adaptable to a hazard) to Low (least adaptable to a hazard). • Conduct Vulnerability Scoring. Vulnerability is the degree to which populations and assets are susceptible to harm, based on a combination of impact and adaptive capacity for each applicable identified hazard as affected by the level of exposure to changing climate conditions. In accordance with the process in the APG, the project team used the impact and adaptive capacity scoring to identify and prioritize the most vulnerable populations and assets in Contra Costa County. FIGURE C-1. CALIFORNIA ADAPTATION PLANNING GUIDE RECOMMENDED MODEL Step 1. Identify Exposure Step 2. Analyze Sensitivities & Potential Impacts Step 3. Evaluate Adaptive Capacity Step 4. Conduct Vulnerability Scoring Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -3 People with something in common that may make them more vulnerable to climate-related hazards than the average person. Populations Structures that provide various services to Contra Costa County community members. Infrastructure Homes, nonresidential buildings, and other land uses. Buildings Properties and activities that make significant contributions to the Contra Costa County economy. Important economic assets Different types of wild and natural land. Ecosystems and natural resources Important functions to community members provided by government agencies and private companies. Key community services Key Concepts in Climate Change Vulnerability Exposures: the presence of people, infrastructure, natural systems, and economic, cultural, and social resources in areas that are subject to harmFor example, the number and frequency of extreme heat days is expected to increase across Contra Costa County. To prepare this vulnerability assessment, the project team determined which effects of climate change are expected to occur in and around Contra Costa County, as well as those that may already be occurring. Sensivity: the degree to which a species, natural system, or community, government, and other associated systems would be affected by changing climate conditions. The project team prepared a list of the various types of people and assets in and around Contra Costa County that could be affected by climate change to be included in the vulnerability assessment. Impact: a specific negative result of a climate change effect, generally on a particular population or asset. Impact is often determined by the combination of exposure and sensitivity. For example, if the effect of climate change is that droughts are likely to become more frequent and severe, a potential impact to farmers is that less water could be available for irrigation. Every population and asset in Contra Costa County is likely to experience different impacts. In this vulnerability assessment, the project team looked at the potential impacts to each sensitivity from each identified exposure. Adaptive Capacity: the combination of the strengths, attributes, and resources available to an individual, community, society, or organization that can be used to prepare for and undertake actions to reduce adverse impacts [or] moderate harm or to exploit beneficial opportunities.” Adaptive capacity it is the ability to adjust to potential damage, to take advantage of opportunities, or to respond to consequences. For example, during extreme heat events, populations with a greater risk of heat-related illnesses can go to cooling centers, which improve their adaptive capacity. The project team looked at the adaptive capacity of each sensitivity for each identified exposure as part of the vulnerability assessment. Appendix C C -4 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Assessment Process Following the APG’s recommended process, the project team selected the hazards that made the most sense to analyze in the vulnerability assessment. The project team reviewed various guidance documents and reports to select these exposures and sensitivities, including the Adaptation Planning Guide, the Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan, and the County’s existing General Plan. Once these were identified, the project team looked at who and what in the community are likely to be affected by which hazards since not all hazards will affect all populations and assets. For example, human health hazards affect most population sensitivities, but they would not affect the structural stability of a bridge or a dam. The project team then assessed the impacts and adaptive capacity for each relevant hazard for all affected populations and assets. County staff from various departments and a representative from the Contra Costa County Sustainability Commission with related technical expertise reviewed the impact, adaptive capacity, and vulnerability scores to provide local knowledge and additional accuracy for the assessment. Potential Impact Cascading Impacts: Climate change hazards can have cascading or compounding effects throughout the county. Cascading or compounding climate change effects means one climate change hazard leads to another, and the effects can “cascade” into a disaster. Human health hazards, for example, have cascading effects, such as rendering workers unable to work and visitors unable to travel to an area, that harm both economic drivers and key community services. The project team accounted for these when developing the applicability matrix, during the assessment process, and while summarizing the vulnerability results. Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -5 To identify the magnitude of the impacts of each relevant hazards on the populations and assets, the project team considered a number of different questions that helped ensure that the assessment broadly covers the range of potential harm. Examples of these questions include: • What types of impacts may occur? Could they cause physical injury or damage? Is there a risk of behavioral or mental harm, loss of economic activity, or other nonphysical effects? • How many people or community assets could be affected by both direct and indirect harm? • How long would the impacts persist? • Is there a substantial chance of death or widespread destruction? Based on the results of the impact assessment (IM), the County ranked each population and asset on a five-point scale (0 – 4) for each relevant hazard. IM0 is the lowest score (lowest impact), and IM4 is the highest score (highest impact). Impact is a negative quality, so a lower impact score is better. Contra Costa County adjusted these scores up or down to account for risk levels and onset. Table C-1 provides more detail about what each impact score means. Direct and Indirect Impacts Direct and Indirect Impacts: The project team marked the hazard as applicable to the population or asset if the hazard directly or indirectly affects a population or asset. Direct impacts affect physical assets, health, or immediate operations, which can lead to indirect impacts on the broader system or community, including asset types in a different category. For example, severe weather can directly damage electrical transmission lines and cause power outages, which can indirectly impact persons with chronic illnesses who depend on electricity for life support systems. Therefore, the project team marked both electrical transmission lines and persons with chronic illnesses who depend on life support systems as being potentially affected by severe weather, the project team evaluated them for their susceptibility to severe weather in the Vulnerability Assessment . Appendix C C -6 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 TABLE C-1: IMPACT SCORE RUBRIC IMPACT SCORE MEANING (PEOPLE AND ECOSYSTEMS) MEANING (BUILDINGS, INFRASTRUCTURE, SERVICES, AND ECONOMIC DRIVERS) IM0. Minimal Impact Community members may not notice any change. Damage, interruption in service, or impacts on the local economy are small or intermittent enough to mostly go unnoticed. IM1. Low Impact Community members notice minor effects. Daily life may experience mild, occasional disruptions. There are minor but noticeable interruptions in service, damage, or negative effects on the economy. IM2. Moderate Impact There is a marked impact to the community. Quality of life may decline. Impacts may be chronic, and at times substantial. Damage, service interruptions, and other impacts are clearly evident. Impacts may be chronic and occasionally substantial. IM3. Significant Impact The well-being of the community declines significantly. The community’s current lifestyle and behavior may no longer be possible. Impacts are chronic. Buildings, infrastructure, and services may be often or always unable to meet community demand. Large sections of the economy experience major hardships. IM4. Severe Impact There is a severe risk of widespread injury or death to people, or of significant or total ecosystem loss. Buildings, infrastructure, and services cannot function as intended or needed. Economic activities are not viable. Adaptive Capacity The project team next assessed the adaptive capacity of each population and asset for each relevant hazard. Using a similar process as the team used to analyzed impacts, the County considered various questions to help ensure that the adaptive capacity assessment addresses the full potential of a sensitivity to resist and recover from harm. Examples of these questions include: • Are there existing programs and policies to provide assistance? Can affected community members take advantage of these programs? • Are there barriers that limit response or recovery? Are these barriers financial limitations, political challenges, lack of access to technology or other resources, or others? Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -7 • For community assets, do alternatives exist in or near Contra Costa County that community members can use? Based on the results of the adaptive capacity (AC) assessment, the project team ranked each sensitivity on a five-point scale (0 - 4) ranging from AC0 (the lowest adaptive capacity) to AC4 (the highest adaptive capacity). Adaptive capacity is a positive quality, so a higher adaptive capacity score is better. As recommended by the APG, the project team adjusted the adaptive capacity scores to ensure that they reflect risk levels and onset periods. Table C-2 provides more detail about what each adaptive capacity score means. TABLE C-2: ADAPTIVE CAPACITY SCORE RUBRIC ADAPTIVE CAPACITY SCORE MEANING (ALL SENSITIVITIES) AC0. No Adaptive Capacity Currently, there are no feasible means of adapting. AC1. Low Adaptive Capacity Adaptive solutions are available, but they are expensive, technologically difficult, and/or politically unpopular. AC2. Some Adaptive Capacity Some adaptation methods are available, but not always feasible. Adapting may create significant challenges for some sensitivities. AC3. High Adaptive Capacity Adaptation solutions are feasible for most or all sensitivities. There may be occasional or small-scale challenges to implementing adaptation methods. AC4. Outstanding Adaptive Capacity Sensitivities can adapt with little or no effort. Quality of life is unchanged or may improve. Appendix C C -8 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Vulnerability Scoring The project team used the impact and adaptive capacity scores for each sensitivity and relevant exposure to determine a vulnerability score. The vulnerability (V) score reflects how susceptible the sensitivity is to be harmed by a particular exposure. Vulnerability is assessed on a scale of V1 to V5: Table C-3 shows how different impact and adaptive capacity scores translate to a vulnerability score. TABLE C-3: SCORING MATRIX IMPACT SCORE IM0 IM1 IM2 IM3 IM4 Adaptive Capacity Score AC0 V3 V4 V5 V5 V5 AC1 V2 V3 V4 V5 V5 AC2 V1 V2 V3 V4 V5 AC3 V1 V1 V2 V3 V4 AC4 V1 V1 V1 V2 V3 V1 Minimal vulnerability V2 Low vulnerability V3 Moderate vulnerability V4 High vulnerability V5 Severe vulnerability Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -9 Data Sources The County used data from a variety of credible sources to prepare the vulnerability assessment, determine the impact and adaptive capacity scores, and support conclusions. These resources include the following: • Scholarly Research: Much of the information came from an extensive body of scientific research that discusses how climate change may affect people and community assets. Much of this research is peer reviewed, which ensures greater accuracy, including studies published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Science, Geophysical Research Letters, and Climate Change journals. • Local Data: Regional government agencies have already prepared a number of plans and reports that support the vulnerability assessment or contain information relevant to the analysis. The County relied on several local plans and reports to prepare the vulnerability assessment, most notably the 2018 Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan and Contra Costa County Adapting to Rising Tides Project. • State and federal Data: The County supplemented the scholarly research and local data with data from State and federal agencies, including published reports and datasets. The County relied on information from several agencies, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the California Energy Commission, California Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES), the California Governor’s Office of Planning Resources (OPR), California Natural Resources Agency (CNRA), and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE). Population and Asset Consideration When selecting assets and populations to include in the vulnerability assessment, the County considered the following: • Sample pool: the sample pool is a subset of the overall group of people that are being measured or studied. For example, in a political poll among registered voters, the sample pool only includes registered voters, since unregistered voters do not fall into this category. This concept is important for the Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment because some of the demographics used in the Vulnerability Assessment have different sample pools. Most of the demographic data come from the US Census Bureau’s American Community Survey (ACS), and most of these data have a sample Appendix C C -10 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 pool of either all residents or all households in the county. However, a few are different. This does not affect the outcome of the Vulnerability Assessment, but it creates slight differences in the number of people counted as part of each population. Some of these differences in the sample pool size include: Data on persons with limited English proficiency only count people who are at least 14 years old instead of the total population, since young children generally are not proficient in any language. Statistics that only count the noninstitutionalized population (e.g., people not in prisons or long-term care homes). • Data limitations: The vulnerability assessment pulls data from a wide array of sources. The project team took care to only use reliable, credible sources with the best available information. In some cases, the vulnerability assessment is constrained by the lack of available high-quality information, such as the number of undocumented persons or outdoor workers. • Related assets: Throughout the 65 populations and assets in the vulnerability assessment, there are a few that may appear redundant. For example, the vulnerability assessment looks at both public safety buildings (as a Buildings asset) and at public safety response (as a Key Community Service asset). To be as comprehensive as possible, the vulnerability assessment looks at physical structures separately from the services or benefits they provide. Similarly, this assessment looks at vulnerable people separately from the homes they live in or the industries where they are employed. This is because the effects of climate change on one type of population or asset can be different from the effects on related populations and assets. POPULATION VULNERABILITIES A number of factors can contribute to differences in climate change vulnerability across age, occupation, socio-economic status, and lifestyle conditions. The four primary overarching drivers of climate change vulnerability for populations are: • Physiology: Older individuals, children, individuals with disabilities, and those who are immunocompromised or with chronic health conditions may be more physically susceptible to the health effects of heat, wildfire smoke exposure, and human health hazards. These individuals may encounter barriers to evacuating in the event of a fire, flood, or other emergency. Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -11 • Access to financial resources: Low-income households, households in poverty, and those with precarious employment may struggle to acquire the financial resources necessary to prepare for and recover from the effects of climate change. • Exposure: Outdoor workers and those in low-resilience or precarious housing are more likely to be directly exposed to effects of climate change such as high heat, poor air quality, severe storms, and flooding. • Exclusion and social isolation: Individuals who are physically or socially isolated from the rest of the community, especially from community decision-making, may lack communication or transportation access, face language or cultural barriers, or may lack social connections. Excluded and isolated persons are often at risk because they are overlooked in community planning and are less able to access supportive resources. A given individual or community may experience more than one of these underlying contributors to climate change vulnerability. These underlying contributors are often structural in nature. This means that, in order for these vulnerabilities to be comprehensively addressed, community members and policymakers must look beyond the level of individual choice and actively investigate how federal, state, and local economic, health and safety, and housing policy can both exacerbate vulnerability and help resolve it. Some of Contra Costa County’s most vulnerable communities and the climate hazards to which they are most vulnerable are highlighted below: Children Under 10 Children are considered those that are 10 years of age or younger. According to the 2017 ACS, approximately 20,500 children live within the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County, or approximately 12 percent of the total population. High concentrations of children live in parts of Concord, Richmond, Pittsburg, Brentwood, and San Ramon. On average, children spend more time than adults outdoor, which leaves them more susceptible to allergens and pollution from poor air quality and wildfire.1 Poor air quality can cause asthma and lung diseases, in addition to exacerbating existing conditions that children may have.2 Infants and young children are physiologically less able to regulate their body temperature than adults, and children also may not recognize the need to hydrate and cool down when overheated. Schools or daycares where children spend a majority of their time could be damaged by a flood or landslide.3 Children could have to stay home, which may have greater economic challenges as parents would also have to Appendix C C -12 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 stay home or find daycare options for their children. Children could also be swept away and drown from flood waters. Air Quality Wildfire Extreme Heat Shoreline Flooding Flooding Landslides and Debris Flows Households in Poverty Households with an income below the poverty line, which is $24,300 for a household of four people. Approximately 7,600 households in Contra Costa County live in poverty, or approximately 12 percent of total households for which poverty status can be determined. Within Contra Costa County, the areas with the highest concentrations of poverty occur in central Richmond, North Richmond and San Pablo, tracts of Concord and Martinez, and in Bay Point, Pittsburg, and Antioch. Air Quality Households in poverty are located within areas that currently have high levels of DPM, PM 2.5, and high ground-level ozone concentrations, which can worsen as air temperatures continue to increase.4 Households in poverty are likely to be more exposed to poor air quality due to lack of vegetation and trees and lower access to air conditioning.5, 6 Persons in these households may become more susceptible to respiratory and cardiovascular related illnesses.7 Extreme Heat Poverty is associated with greater vulnerability to heat in a number of ways. The long-standing association between low-income and poor health outcomes, as well as pre-existing health conditions among people in poverty, play a key role in vulnerability. Impoverished and low-income people who are uninsured may be less likely to seek medical help if they do become ill, may live in poorly insulated housing, and may also be less likely to use fans or air conditioning out of concern for high utility bills. During extreme heat days, temperatures in uninsulated homes may reach unhealthy temperatures. Households in poverty are located throughout the County, however those in central and eastern Contra Costa may face the greatest exposure from extreme heat. Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -13 Shoreline Flooding Flooding Households in poverty affected by coastal flooding are primarily located within North Richmond, Bay Point, and the tracts and islands in the Delta.8 Most of the households in poverty are located within or near 100-year flood zones.9 Flooding can damage homes, cause mildew and mold to grow, destroy infrastructure, and contaminate water supplies. Human Health Hazards Households in poverty may be living in conditions that increase the chances of catching a vector-borne illness, pathogens, or diseases. Households in poverty may be disproportionately affected higher rates of pollution and poor air quality. Landslides and Debris Flows Households in poverty may live in homes that are less structurally sound. Rodeo, Crockett, Bay Point, and Port Costa have a high concentration of households in poverty and also have high landslide susceptibility areas.10, 11 Landslides can damage the foundations of homes or destroy them completely.12 Sea Level Rise Vine Hill, Bay Point, and North Richmond households in poverty may be affected by sea level rise. Households in poverty may live in structures that are not waterproofed or built above the current 100-year flood elevation.13 These households are more likely to live in low-lying areas that are already subject to flooding, which may worsen as sea levels rise. Severe Storms Households in poverty may live in structures that are less resilient to severe weather.14 This increases the likelihood that high winds, thunderstorms, and heavy rain storms can damage their homes or cause mold or mildew growth. Persons living in these households can be physically harmed or experience a decrease in quality of life due to severe weather. Appendix C C -14 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Wildfire Households in poverty may be subject to greater damage from wildfires, due to financial limitations or neighborhood characteristics that make it difficult to maintain defensible space in fire-prone areas. Some households in poverty are located within the wildland-urban interface, which is the most susceptible to damage from wildfires.15 Smoke and ash from wildfires can also harm households in poverty. Low-Income Households Households with an income of 80 percent or less of the median income, which is approximately $104,400 in Contra Costa County. Approximately 25,340 households or 41 percent of all households in the County are within the low-income category. Low-income households may have fewer financial resources to devote to preparing for and recovering from the effects of climate change. Many low-income households are located within or near a flood zone or dam inundation area, especially in north and east county.16 High concentrations of low-income households vulnerable to shoreline flooding occur in Rodeo, Crockett, the islands in the Delta, and Discovery Bay.17 Low-income households may live in structures that are not waterproofed or built above the current 100-year flood elevation.18 Coastal flooding can damage homes, cause mildew and mold to grow, and destroy infrastructure. Shoreline Flooding Flooding Outdoor Workers People who mostly work outdoor, including construction workers, agricultural workers, and people who work at outdoor recreation centers throughout Contra Costa County. Agricultural Pests and Diseases Outdoor workers may not be directly affected by agricultural pests and diseases. However, outdoor workers can be indirectly affected due to damage to crops and vineyards within the County. This can reduce work opportunities and create economic hardship for outdoor workers. Those working outside of agriculture may not be impacted by agricultural pests and diseases. Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -15 Air Quality Outdoor workers are directly exposed to poor air quality due to the nature of their occupation. Exposure to increased pesticides, ground level ozone concentrations, and particulate matter can lead to asthma, lung disease, cardiovascular health risks.19 If outdoor work is stopped due to poor air quality, outdoor workers may face economic hardship. Drought Drought can reduce water availability for agricultural operations, parks, and recreation areas, which can indirectly harm outdoor workers. Agricultural operations and Delta recreational opportunities can be halted, which may cause outdoor workers to lose jobs. Extreme Heat Outdoor workers in the agriculture, construction, building maintenance, landscaping and refinery operations fields are disproportionately impacted by extreme heat because they are required to be outside and risk heat exhaustion from exertion at jobs.20 Outdoor work is often physically intense, increasing the risk of individuals suffering heat-related medical complications. Outdoor work may also be halted during high temperatures, which can cause significant economic hardships. Persons Experiencing Homelessness Persons who do not have a permanent home, including those who live in their vehicles or temporary shelters. There are approximately 2,230 persons experiencing homelessness in Contra Costa County, according to the County’s 2018 homeless count, although most of these persons are likely in incorporated communities. Persons experiencing homelessness lack permanent, and often temporary, shelter, and therefore are more exposed to climate change impacts. Most of the homeless encampments within Contra Costa County occur along the coastline and near or within coastal flood areas.21 Coastal flooding and sea level rise can destroy homeless encampments and homeless facilities near the shoreline, creating additional hardships for persons experiencing homelessness. These events could become more frequent as sea levels rise and coastal storms intensify. Appendix C C -16 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Persons experiencing homelessness, especially those in central and east county, face greater exposure to extreme heat because they lack access to permanent, and often temporary shelter. Dehydration is common among homeless persons, which makes health - related complications from extreme heat more likely. Homeless persons are more likely to suffer respiratory infections, which are exacerbated by extreme heat. Homeless persons on medication are also at greater risk from extreme heat, as some medication interferes with the body's ability to maintain a safe internal temperature during times of extreme temperatures. Homeless persons may face a significant decline in health due to direct exposure to poor air quality that can cause reduced lung function, pneumonia, asthma, and cardio-vascular-related morbidity.22 Homeless encampments located near Bay Point and other wildland-urban interface areas may also be in danger of being burned in the event of a wildfire.23 Air Quality Shoreline Flooding Extreme Heat Flooding Human Health Hazards Sea Level Rise Severe Weather Wildfire Persons Living on Single Access Roads Persons living in areas with a sole route in and out of the neighborhood or area. Several neighborhoods and communities in the Delta and in the hillside areas of central and western Contra Costa County are only accessible via one roadway. Flooding events, landslides, and wildfire can block, damage, and destroy roadways that are essential for persons living on single access roads. Bethel Island and Delta islands are accesible by single access roads, and many residential areas with single access roads are in the hilly areas in the center of the County. If roadways become impassable, persons living on single access roads can become isolated from the community and emergency services may not be able to reach these communities. Those that are not connected to urban water systems can also have water contamination.24 Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -17 Shoreline Flooding Flooding Landslides and Debris Flows Sea Level Rise Wildfire Persons with Chronic Illnesses People who have a long-term or permanent health condition that can create regular challenges in their day-to-day lives. These health problems include cancer, asthma, heart disease, and arthritis. Air Quality Persons with chronic illnesses may face increased health risks during poor air quality conditions. Poor air quality can exacerbate existing conditions such as asthma and respiratory illnesses, in addition to cause pneumonia.25 Shoreline Flooding Persons with chronic illnesses, such as cardiovascular diseases and asthma, that may experience coastal flooding are primarily located in Rodeo, Bay Point, and the islands and tracts in the Delta region on the County.26 Persons with chronic illnesses may live in homes that are not flood-proofed and can have mold growth or be damaged during coastal flooding. Extreme Heat Persons with chronic health problems, including cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease and diabetes, may face a significantly elevated risk of heat-related illness and death during extreme heat events.27 Extreme heat can exacerbate existing conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, respiratory ailments, and cerebrovascular diseases.28 29 30 Persons with chronic illnesses may also be on medication that can reduce the ability of the body to maintain a safe internal temperature.31 Human Health Hazards Persons with chronic illnesses may have weaker immune systems due to pre-existing conditions that make it more difficult to fight off new illnesses.32 Allergens and vector-borne illnesses can exacerbate existing illnesses, which can create difficulties in existing or new treatment. Appendix C C -18 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Severe Storms Severe weather may cause power outages throughout the County, which can affect the life support systems that persons with chronic illnesses may rely on.33 Wildfire Wildfires can create smoke that travels 50-100 miles of the fire, which can exacerbate illnesses that persons with chronic illnesses have and cause asthma, acute bronchitis, chronic obstructive disease, pneumonia.34 Persons with Limited English Proficiency This group includes people who say they do not speak English “well” or “very well,” although the Census Bureau does not formally define what these terms mean. The 2017 ACS reports that approximately 10,060 people in Contra Costa County who are at least 5 years old have limited English proficiency, or approximately 6 percent of the total population. Other languages spoken in the County are primarily Spanish, Mandarin, Cantonese, Tagalog, and Persian. The highest proportion of households with limited English proficiency occur in Richmond, Concord, and San Pablo. Air Quality Persons with limited English proficiency are more likely to live in areas that have poor air quality, such as particulate matter and lower level ozone. Exposure to increased ground level ozone concentrations and particulate matter can lead to asthma, lung disease, and cardiovascular health risks.35 They may also not be aware of air quality warnings or other alerts. Flooding Severe Storms Persons with limited English proficiency are more likely to be in low- income areas, which are also more likely to be located in low-lying areas. Flooding from atmospheric rivers can damage homes and cause them to become uninhabitable or unhealthy to live in. Homes are also more likely to be damaged by high winds or hail events. Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -19 Human Health Hazards Persons with limited English proficiency may work outdoors or live in conditions that make them more susceptible to vector-borne illnesses or diseases. These conditions could exacerbate existing illnesses. Wildfire Persons with limited English proficiency may not have control over their homes or live in neighborhoods that make it difficult to maintain defensible space. These persons may live in the wildland-urban interface or may not have shelter from smoke conditions. Persons Without Access to Lifelines These are individuals who do not have access to basic technology or services, such as transportation or modern communication. These persons may live in areas where these lifelines are not available or feasible, may not be able to afford these lifelines, or for personal reason may choose not to have them. While data is not available on all persons without lifelines, the 2017 ACS reports that approximately 2,850 households in Contra Costa County do not have vehicles, or approximately 5 percent of all households. Persons without access to lifelines, such as cars and communication systems, may encounter barriers in preparing for and responding to emergency events. They may be unaware of an approaching emergency, may be unable to evacuate in a timely manner, and may become isolated if power services or transit systems are not working. Areas where large numbers of households do not have access to private vehicles may be important sites to strengthen public transit and also to provide mass transportation options to cooling centers during extreme heat events. Areas with clusters of households that do not have access to a vehicle occur in Concord, Richmond, Martinez, and San Pablo. Shoreline flooding Flooding Wildfire Appendix C C -20 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Seniors Seniors are defied as persons 65 years of age or older. The 2017 ACS reports that there are approximately 26,110 seniors in Contra Costa County, or approximately 15 percent of the total population. Some areas within Contra Costa County, including central Contra Costa County, Bethel Island, the eastern part of Richmond, and several parts of Walnut Creek, have particularly high concentrations of seniors due to both institutional and residential retirement communities. People living in supportive senior housing, such as Rossmoor, may have access to protective resources, including staff paying attention to their well- being. Seniors’ physiology makes these individuals especially vulnerable to the health effects associated with poor air quality, extreme heat, and wildfire exposure. Meanwhile, physical limitations may make it harder for seniors to evacuate in the event of an emergency. Communities with high concentrations of seniors are primarily located on the hillsides in Contra Costa County, which are within high landslide susceptibility areas and are at elevated wildfire risk.36 Air quality Extreme Heat Landslides and Debris Flows Wildfire Seniors Living Alone This group includes senior citizens who are the only people living in their homes, although they may have one or more caretaker. According to the 2017 ACS, approximately 5,070 senior citizens live alone in Contra Costa County, or approximately 19 percent of seniors. Like other seniors, seniors living alone may be especially vulnerable to the health effects associated with high heat, poor air quality, and wildfire smoke. Seniors living alone generally face elevated overall vulnerability compared to other seniors because they may lack access to social connections and community support to assist in preparing for and responding to emergency events, evacuating, improving home resiliency, managing medical needs, and locating support services. These individuals may be especially isolated in the event of a power outage or road closure. Communities with high concentrations of Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -21 seniors are primarily located on the hillsides in Contra Costa, which are within high landslide susceptibility and wildfire risk areas.37 Air Quality Shoreline Flooding Extreme Heat Flooding Human Health Hazards Landslides and Debris Flows Severe Weather Wildfire Undocumented Persons This group includes people who do not have formal permission to live in the United States (they do not have citizenship, permanent residency, visas, or other similar status). There are no official counts of how many undocumented persons live in Contra Costa County, but a 2017 study estimated that the total number of undocumented persons in Contra Costa County (including those living in incorporated areas) was 77,500. Many undocumented persons have outdoor occupations or work in highly unregulated environments, which leaves them susceptible to harm from extreme heat conditions, exposure to poor air quality, and exposure to diease vectors such as ticks and mosquitoes. Outdoor work is often physically intense, increasing the risk of individuals suffering heat- related medical complications. Outdoor work may also be halted during high temperatures, which can cause significant economic hardships. Undocumented agricultural workers may face economic hardship if crops, vineyards, or rangeland are damaged by agricultural pests and diseases. Agricultural workers who are undocumented are more likely to be let go when farms experience economic hardship. Undocumented persons are most likely to fall in the households in poverty or low-income categories, and are more likely to live in low-lying areas that may be inundated during flooding or damaged by severe weather. Undocumented persons may live in structures that are not waterproofed or built above the current 100-year flood elevation.38 Flooding can damage homes, cause mildew and mold to grow, and destroy infrastructure. Appendix C C -22 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Agricultural pests and diseases Air Quality Shoreline Flooding Extreme Heat Flooding Human Health Hazards Landslides and Debris Flows Severe Weather Wildfire INFRASTRUCTURE VULNERABILITIES Bridges Bridges may carry roads, rails, or trails. In Contra Costa County, these range from the large, state-owned bridges that carry interstate freeways, to locally owned bridges that carry rural roads and pedestrians over small creeks. There are over 400 bridges countywide, with approximately 80 owned by the Contra Costa County and approximately 160 owned by Caltrans. Damage to bridges could interrupt local and regional transportation patterns, disrupting economic activity and potentially emergency response. Bridge damage or failure could also lead to injury or loss of life. Shoreline Flooding According to the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan, 8 bridges are within the coastal flood zones within the County, including 4 on local roads, 3 on Interstate 680, and 1 on State Route 4 west bound.39 Major bridges include the Benecia-Martinez Bridge and the Carquinez Bridge, which are major transportation routes within the Bay Area. Additional bridges that provide key linkages are the Highway 160 bridge and Bethel Island bridge. Damage to these bridges would cause major congestion on other roadways and bridges in the County.40 Failure of the Bethel Island bridge could also leave residents and business owners stranded on the island. Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -23 Flooding There are 26 bridges within the 100-year flood zone and dam inundation areas.41 Some of these bridges are located in low-lying areas that could become covered in floodwater. Landslides and Debris Flows Forty bridges, including those on State Route 4 and Interstates 80 and 680 are within the moderate to very high landslide areas.42 Landslides can cause these bridges to become unstable and fail. Severe Storms Bridges may be damaged or periodically closed due to severe weather.43 Electricity Transmission and Distribution Lines Electrical transmission and distribution lines are power lines that carry high-voltage electricity long distances between power plants and electricity customers. There are transmission lines located throughout the county, primarily owned by Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E). Other transmission lines in eastern Contra Costa County are owned by the Western Area Power Administration (WAPA) and the Transmission Agency of Northern California.44 Extreme Heat Extreme heat conditions may most likely affect electricity transmission and distribution lines in east and central Contra Costa, as temperatures in those areas are projected to increase substantially on extreme heat days. Extreme heat can cause an increase in air conditioning use, which can stress and overload the grid, subsequently causing power outages and damage to the lines. Landslides and Debris Flows Many electrical transmission lines pass over hills and mountains in east and west Contra Costa and are also within high landslide potential areas.45 Landslides can damage or destroy the power lines and towers that support them. These power lines carry electricity to other regions in the Bay Area and could cause widespread power outages if multiple lines are disrupted at the same time. Appendix C C -24 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Severe Storms Electricity transmission and distribution lines can be damaged or destroyed by high velocity winds. This can cause secondary impacts such as power outages, that would impact County residents and businesses. Wildfire Several electrical transmission and distribution lines go through mountainous areas that are within high fire hazard severity zones. Electrical transmission lines and the poles that support them can be damaged or destroyed by the flames and high temperatures created by wildfires. This can cause residents and businesses within the County to lose power if electricity lines fail. This can cause economic hardship and potential public safety concerns. Flood Control Infrastructure Flood control infrastructure includes levees, dikes, and drainage channels, and other infrastructure meant to help prevent the creeks, Delta, and other water bodies throughout Contra Costa County from overflowing their banks and causing floods. The Contra Costa County Flood Control District is the agency responsible for local flood control projects. Many of the levees and drainage facilities in the Delta region of the county are privately owned and operated. Levees near North Richmond, Vine Hill, and the Delta could all be damaged and/or overtopped due to the increase in tidal levels from a coastal storm. Coastal storms can damage or destroy levees and other flood-control infrastructure, making them unable to function as intended or needed. Sea level rise may exacerbate these effects. Shoreline Flooding Sea Level Rise Major Roads and Highways Major roads and highways within Contra Costa County include Interstates 80, 680, and 580; State Routes 4, 24, and 123; and local roads such as Richmond Parkway, San Pablo Avenue, San Pablo Dam Road, Ygnacio Valley Road and Kirker Pass, Vasco Road, Byron Highway, Marsh Creek Road, and Morgan Territory Road. Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -25 Shoreline Flooding Flooding Sea Level Rise Major regional roadways, including Interstates 680 and 80, as well as State Route 4 are within flooding zones. Interstates 680 and 80 and State Route 160 are within sea level rise inundation areas. Flooding to these roadways, in addition to major local roadways could cause major disruptions to local and regional transportation, transit, and commuters.46 Large sections of the economy could face economic hardship if commuters in the Bay Area are unable to reach their jobs and communities are isolated because of flooding. Landslides and Debris Flows Major roadways, such as Interstate 80 and 680, and State Routes 4 and 24 are within high landslide susceptibility areas47. These roadways could be damaged and become impassable, including the fourth bore of the Caldecott Tunnel. This could substantially disrupt regional transportation and connections between Contra Costa County and the rest of the Bay Area. Wildfire State Route 4, 24, and Interstate 80 go through moderate to very high fire hazard zones within Contra Costa48. Wildfires can damage roadways and cause road closures, which can cause major disruption to commute and traffic patterns in the Bay Area. Closure of Highway 4 and 24 may prevent those living in eastern and central Contra Costa from traveling to west Contra Costa County. Railroads and BART There are three standard rail lines that run through Contra Costa County. The rail lines are operated by Union Pacific, Burlington Northern Santa Fe, and Richmond Pacific Railroad Corporation that run along the western, northern, and eastern boundaries on the county along Interstate 80, State Route 4, and Byron Highway.49 Each rail line is used for freight trains, and the Capitol Corridor commuter train runs along the Union Pacific railway. The Bay Area Rapid Transit District (BART) operates its own separate rail lines which are used exclusively for public transit. There are two BART rain lines in Contra Costa County, one Appendix C C -26 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 beginning in Richmond and heading south toward Berkeley, and the second in the central part of the county extending from Orinda to Antioch. Shoreline Flooding Flooding Sea Level Rise Amtrak, freight lines, and BART are within the flood areas within coastal and northern of Contra Costa.50 Flooding can damage the track bed and ballast material, and the entire system could shut down. Some of these rail lines, including the Martinez and Antioch Amtrak stations, rail lines along Bay Point, Montalvin Manor, Rodeo, Port Costa serve as first line of defense to coastal flooding for communities.51 Damage to the rail and BART lines could mean disruptions to regional transit networks that are essential for economic activity.52 Landslides and Debris Flows The North Concord/Martinez BART station, Martinez Amtrak station, Pittsburg/Bay Point BART station, and Lafayette BART station, in addition to the adjacent rail lines are within moderate to high landslide susceptibility zones.53 Landslides could damage the tracks or destroy a station, which could prevent rail cars from passing through the station in either direction. This could limit transit opportunities within east and west county. Single Access Roads These are roadways that are one of few, or the only, ways in and out of some communities of neighborhoods. The single or limited number of entry and exit points does not make the road itself more vulnerable than other roads, but the loss of these roadways can effectively cut off large number of people from the rest of Contra Costa County. Single access roadways are primarily located in Bay shoreline and Delta fronting neighborhoods, as well as communities located on the San Pablo Ridge, Canyon, and Briones Hills. Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -27 Single access roads can be damaged or blocked by falling trees, flooding, landslides, and wildfire. Single access roads are primarily located in hillside community that are also within high or very high fire hazard severity zones.54 Within these forested areas, trees can be damaged by redwood bark beetle or sudden oak death. These diseases can weaken trees can cause them to fall on and damage roadways. Single access roads in Bay Point, Bethel Island, and in the Delta may be affected by coastal flooding; single access roads throughout the County are located within the 100 and 500 year floodplain. Single access roads can become inundated and be damaged by a flood event, especially those that rely on bridges that cross through the Delta. This can leave residents and business owners stranded and isolated during a flood. Damage to or blockage of a single access road can leave residents stranded during an emergency and can inconvenience residents and businesses that rely on access to these roads. Agricultural pests and diseases Shoreline Flooding Flooding Landslides and Debris Flows Wildfire Wastewater Treatment Plants These facilities treat wastewater so it can be safely discharged into the environment. There are 10 wastewater treatment plants in the county, which treat wastewater for people living in cities and unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County.55 Failure of these treatment plants could cause sewer systems to backup and potentially contaminate streams and water systems with raw sewage. Shoreline Flooding Three wastewater treatment plants (WWTP): Rodeo sewage treatment plant, West Contra Costa Wastewater, and Mt View Sanitary District are within low lying or coastal flooding areas.56 Coastal flooding can exacerbate wet weather flows into the treatment plants with higher levels of stormwater and rising sea levels, which can prevent the system from functioning properly.57 Pumps and control panels that are not waterproofed or salt-resistant could also fail. Appendix C C -28 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Flooding Two WWTPs are within the 100 & 500 year floodplain, one WWTP is within dam inundation zone, including the West Contra Costa and Pinole Hercules plants.58 Sea Level Rise Three wastewater treatment plants: Rodeo sewage treatment plant, West Contra Costa Wastewater, and Mt View Sanitary District are within low lying areas along the shoreline.59 Inundation due to sea level rise can exacerbate wet weather flows into the treatment plants with higher levels of stormwater and rising sea levels, which can prevent the system from functioning properly.60 Pumps and control panels that are not waterproofed or salt-resistant could also fail. Water and Wastewater Infrastructure These facilities convey water from water treatment plants for public use and convey wastewater to wastewater treatment plants through sewer systems. This includes piping, pump stations, wells, and septic systems. The Mokelumne Aqueduct could be exposed to coastal flooding if the Delta levees fail.61 Contra Costa Canal and the Clifton Court Forebay are also within the coastal flooding area. If the levees fail during a coastal flooding events, these pieces of infrastructure would also fail, and fresh water would become contaminated with salt water, reducing the amount of suitable drinking water and agricultural water. This could halt economic activities in Contra Costa and the greater California area. These hazards could be exacerbated by sea level rise. Shoreline Flooding Flooding Sea Level Rise Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -29 BUILDING VULNERABILITIES Industrial Buildings These are buildings that contain industrial and manufacturing uses and businesses. There are approximately 270 industrial buildings in the unincorporated area of Contra Costa County. Shoreline Flooding Approximately 61 industrial buildings in Contra Costa County are within coastal flooding areas.62 Coastal flooding can cause damage to industrial structures and increase the potential for hazardous materials release that would contaminate soil, water, and air in surrounding areas.63 Industrial structures that are currently outside of the 100-year flood zone are also unlikely to be waterproofed or flood resistant.64 Flooding There are 68 industrial buildings within the 500-year floodplain and 99 industrial buildings within a dam inundation area65. This includes 5 hazardous materials facilities that could potentially release toxic substances into the ground, air, and water if damaged.66 Landslides and Debris Flow There are 34 industrial structures within landslide-prone areas.67 Landslides can disturb holding tanks or damage industrial buildings, and cause chemicals to be released into the air, water, or ground in the surrounding areas. Sea Level Rise Approximately 44 industrial buildings in Contra Costa County are within sea level rise inundation areas.68, 69 Sea level rise can cause damage to industrial structures over time and increase the potential for hazardous materials release that would contaminate soil, water, and air in surrounding areas due to high mean high tide levels.70 Industrial structures that are currently outside of the 100-year flood zone are also unlikely to be waterproofed or flood resistant.71 Wildfire There are 24 industrial buildings within the fire hazard zone.72 Wildfires can damage holding tanks or manufacturing centers that contain harmful chemicals. Damage to these facilities can release toxic materials into the air, water, and soil of the surrounding communities. Appendix C C -30 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 ECONOMIC DRIVER VULNERABILITIES Agriculture This category includes field crops (such as tomatoes, sweet corn, and other vegetables), fruit and nut orchards, vineyards, and plant nurseries. These agricultural operations are primarily location in eastern Contra Costa County, between Mt. Diablo State Park and the Delta. In 2017, farms and orchards produced approximately $95 million in agricultural products.73 Agricultural Pests and Diseases Agriculture within Contra Costa County can be affected by fungal pathogens and invasive disease vectors, which could affect agriculture as an economic asset.74 Pests and diseases can affect the quality or viability of crops and vineyards that are within the county. Impacts could become chronic as conditions continue to change and warmer temperatures persist. Shoreline Flooding Agricultural land in the eastern and Delta portions of the County are within the coastal flood zone. Coastal flooding can inundate farmland and damage or destroy crops. Damage to the fresh water canals and aqueducts could also severely harm the agriculture industry. Eastern Contra Costa County may face significant economic hardship if agriculture is not viable. Drought Agriculture may be directly harmed from drought conditions due to an increase in soil salinity, topsoil erosion, and reduced water supply.75 This can limit crop production and in turn result in a loss of income for agriculture owners. The economy in eastern Contra Costa can be especially harmed by limited water for agricultural production. Extreme Heat Extreme heat conditions can damage crops or reduce yield, which can create economic hardships in eastern Contra Costa. High heat conditions can also make crops more difficult to manage, and can lead to die off of crops. Wine grapes are expected to experience a decline in fruit quality due to extreme heat.76 Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -31 Flooding Agriculture within Contra Costa is located in low-lying areas that are in both the floodable areas and dam inundation areas. Flooding can cause significant damage to crop production because they can damage plants, wash away topsoil nutrients, and degrade essential microbial activity. This can harm plants and reduce agricultural productivity, subsequently harming the agricultural economy in east Contra Costa.77 Sea Level Rise Agricultural land in the eastern and Delta portions of the County are within the sea level rise inundation area. Sea level rise can inundate farmland creating higher salinity water and soils. Water supplies, including groundwater, can also experience salt water intrusion, which can be damaging to crops that do not grow in high salt conditions. Damage to the fresh water canals and aqueducts could also severly harm the agriculture industry. Eastern Contra Costa County may face significant economic hardship if agriculture is not viable. Severe Storms High winds, hail, and thunderstorms can decimate agricultural operations. Crops can be flattened by high velocity winds and food crops can be damaged by hail.78 This can severely damage the agricultural economy in east Contra Costa and bring economic hardship to farm owners in that area. Wildfire Smoke and ash can damage crops, farms, and agricultural fields in Contra Costa County. While many of the agricultural areas are outside of fire hazard zones, smoke and ash can change crops such as wine grapes and change nutrients in the soil.79 This may cause plants to die or not produce as many useable fruits. This can cause major economic hardship for farmers. Industrial and Manufacturing Centers (including oil refineries) Industrial and manufacturing centers include facilities that have light and heavy industrial and manufacturing businesses. In the unincorporated areas in Contra Costa County, these centers are located in North Richmond, Rodeo, Crockett, Bay Point, Pacheco, and Clyde. Oil refineries are included in this category, as they are industrial facilities where crude oil is Appendix C C -32 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 processed into gasoline and industrial byproducts for a variety of retail and wholesale markets. There are three of these facilities in the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County, which are in Rodeo, Pacheco, and Martinez (straddling the City/County boundaries). Shoreline Flooding Flooding Sea Level Rise The majority of these centers are located within the coastal flood hazard areas along the bayfront and Delta in western and northern Contra Costa County, with additional centers located within the flood hazard zones on the northern and western edges of the county. Industrial and manufacturing centers can be damaged by flooding, which could result in lost productivity, jobs, and income sources for employees. Coastal flooding hazards could be exacerbated by sea level rise. Landslides and Debris Flows Industrial and manufacturing centers, including oil refineries, are located within the landslide prone areas on the northern and western edges of Contra Costa.80 Landslides can damage these facilities and cause hazardous material release that can harms the oil refining industry and also the surrounding communities. Impacts may become chronic if landslides increase. Wildfire Few industrial and manufacturing centers are located within fire hazard severity zones. However, oils refineries and holding tanks can be damaged by wildfires, which can cause hazardous materials to be released into the surrounding air, water, and soil. This can negatively impact both economic and public health. Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -33 Rangeland Rangeland are lands where many livestock species, including cattle, are raised. Rangeland is primarily located in eastern Contra Costa County. In 2017, rangeland produced approximately $26 million in livestock products. 81 Drought Rangeland is primarily located on grassland habitats, which can lose topsoil and productivity due to the drier conditions created by droughts.82 This can reduce the available foraging habitat for livestock and cause economic hardship for rangeland owners. Extreme Heat Extreme heat is very harmful to livestock animals, especially cattle. Temperatures above 100 degrees can create heat stress, increase the risk of infection, reduce milk production and fertility, and may lead to death of animals. Animals that are already stressed by existing illnesses are at the highest risk. Flooding Rangeland located on Bethel Island and the Delta areas are within the 100-year floodplain and dam inundation areas. Flood waters can damage important rangeland infrastructure and the natural grassland that feeds to cattle and livestock83. This can harm the local economy in east County. Regional Parks Regional parks within Contra Costa County are scattered throughout the county. East Bay Regional Park District operates over 113,000 acres of regional parkland in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties.84 Sea Level Rise Regional shorelines and parks on the Bay/Delta could be permanently inundated by sea level rise. This could make the regional parks unusable and the parks may not be able to meet the demands of the public. Wildfire Many regional parks within the County are located within high or very high fire hazard severity zones.85 Wildfires can destroy park facilities, damage trails and walking paths, and damage scenic views and vistas within these parks. This may reduce the number of visitors to the parks, as they may not be as desirable to visit. Appendix C C -34 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 The Delta The Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta (Delta) spans from Pittsburg in the west, Locke in the east, Sacramento to the North, and Tracy to the south. The Delta primarily encompasses the northern and easternmost borders of Contra Costa County and provides opportunities for boating, fishing, transportation, and a water source for the County. Air Quality The Delta supports fishing, water recreation, and park activities that could be curtailed due to poor air quality.86 Those who rely on the Delta could have a periodic loss of economic activity as long as poor air quality curtails outdoor and water recreation. Shoreline Flooding The Delta, including marinas, harbors, farmland, and recreational opportunities may be continuously flooded and inundated by coastal storms. This can significantly reduce the economic viability of the Delta due to damage to ecosystems, recreation facilities such as marinas and harbors, and farmland on the islands and tracts within the Delta. Drought Reduced streamflow and water quality can decrease both commercial fishing, agricultural production, and recreational opportunities in the Delta.87 Certain fish species may die off if water conditions change and high salinity water may not be able to be used for agricultural production.88 Extreme Heat The Delta supports fishing, water recreation, and park activities that could be curtailed due to extreme heat.89 Extreme heat may also alter the water quality, cause water temperatures to rise, and cause fish die off and algae growth. Sea Level Rise The Delta, including marinas, harbors, farmland, and recreational opportunities may be continuously flooded and inundated by sea level rise. This can significantly reduce the economic viability of the Delta due to damage to ecosystems, recreation facilities such as marinas and harbors, and farmland on the islands and tracts within the Delta. Salt water may also travel farther into the Delta, disrupting water quality and fish/wildlife populations. Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -35 Severe Storms Severe weather can damage harbors, marinas, outdoor recreation centers within the Delta, which can harm both the fishery and recreation based economies in the Delta. Severe storms can also damage bridges that connect islands and tracks within the Delta, which can isolate them from other areas in the region. ECOSYSTEM AND NATURAL RESOURCE VULNERABILITIES Aquatic Aquatic habitat includes streams, reservoirs, ponds, and sloughs or channels. This ecosystem includes the Delta and shoreline areas that are submerged by water. In Contra Costa County, the three large reservoirs include San Pablo Reservoir, Briones Reservoir, and Los Vaqueros Reservoir. Aquatic wildlife species include various duck species, California red-legged frog, western pond turtle, and juvenile and spawning adult Chinook salmon. 90 Drought Drought can cause lower water levels and water quality, in addition to raising water temperatures in aquatic habitats. These conditions can cause algal blooms in Delta areas, harm salmonid populations, and cause system wide failures.91, 92 Lower dissolved oxygen levels and increased algae growth can also harm a variety of aquatic species.93 Extreme Heat Extreme heat events can cause water temperatures in aquatic habitats to rise, which can alter water quality and other water characteristics. Native fish species may have a more difficult time surviving in warmer waters and non-native species may out compete native species.94 Landslides and Debris Flows Aquatic habitat within landslide prone areas includes lakes and streams, which are in the central and western parts of the county. Landslides can cause streams to be blocked and significantly affect fish and wildlife habitat through additional debris in aquatic systems.95 Appendix C C -36 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Sea Level Rise Sea level rise may push salt water into the Delta aquatic system, which may degrade the water quality and harm fish and other aquatic organisms.96 Aquatic habitats may also be harmed if industrial/oil facilities are inundated, as hazardous materials could be released into the soils and water.97 Riparian Woodland and Shrub Riparian woodland and shrub ecosystems consist of Valley foothill riparian, undetermined shrub, and riverine habitat. These areas are scattered throughout Contra Costa County and have wildlife species such as gray fox, striped skunk, broad-handed mole, mule deer, dusky-footed woodrat, yellow warbler, northern flicker, white tailed kite, and Cooper’s hawk. 98 Drought Drought conditions can cause smaller streams to run dry, which can subsequently harm the plants and animal habitat within the ecosystem. Trees may not have adequate water during drought periods, which can lead to pests and diseases destroying important habitat for the Gray fox, Cooper's hawk, and mule deer.99 Soil erosion can also occur on the banks of streams.100 Severe Storms Severe storms can cause trees to fall in riparian ecosystems, which can disrupt the flow of water through the systems and impact aquatic wildlife in the streams. Wildfire Riparian ecosystems can be harmed by wildfires due to loss of canopy and changes in soil structure, erosion, and shifts in specific composition due to changes in habitat structure.101 Impacts may become chronic as wildfire frequency increases. Wetland Wetland ecosystems include permanent wetland, seasonal wetland, fresh emergent wetland, alkali wetland, and marsh. These areas are located adjacent to the San Francisco Bay and Delta. Wildlife in these ecosystems includes Great blue heron, great egret, wood duck, green-winged teal, mallard, California red-legged frog, western pond turtle, garter Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -37 snakes, western spadefoot toad, western toad, California tiger salamander, tri-colored blackbird, and vernal pool fairy shrimp. 102 Shoreline Flooding Coastal flooding and rising sea levels may inundate most of the wetland and tidal marshes by 2070.103 The wildlife habitat, recreation, and flood protection that these ecosystems provide may not be able to be sustained.104 Drought Wetlands can be directly affect by reduced water quantity and quality due to drought conditions.105 Drought can contribute to algal blooms, low streamflow, degraded water quality, higher temperatures, and increased erosion in both Delta and inland wetland habitats.106 This can in turn harm wildlife such as the California red-legged frog and western pond turtle that depend on these ecosystems.107 Extreme Heat Warmer waters may change wetland habitats so that native species can no longer survive.108 Warmer temperatures may also cause harmful algal growth that can harm both plant and wildlife species. Sea Level Rise Rising sea levels may inundate most of the wetland and tidal marshes by 2070.109 The wildlife habitat, recreation, and flood protection that these ecosystems provide may not be able to be sustained.110 Woodland Woodland ecosystems include oak savannah, oak woodland, and mixed evergreen forest. These ecosystems are primarily located on the hillsides and mountainous regions of western and central Contra Costa County. Wildlife in these ecosystems include deer mouse, western gray squirrel, coyote, red-tailed hawk, barn owl, great horned owl, and acorn woodpecker. 111 Appendix C C -38 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Agricultural Pests and Diseases Both evergreen and oak woodlands in the county can be damaged by forestry pests and diseases such as sudden oak death and redwood bark beetles. This can decimate the ecosystems and wildlife such as coyote, gray fox, barn owl, red-tailed hawk, and Copper's hawk that depend on these ecosystem for habitat and foraging.112 Fog Redwoods, which are a common species in woodland habitats in western Contra Costa, depend on the coastal fog in the summer months. Redwoods can get up to one third of their water from fog in the summer.113 The absence of coastal fog may cause higher evapotranspiration rates and increase the demand for water in woodland ecosystems during the drier summer months. Wildfire Fire sensitivity varies by species, but most species have an elevated risk of damage. Large fires can cause widespread devastation throughout woodland areas in Contra Costa County, particularly if trees have been weakened or killed by drought, extreme heat, and/or pests or infestation.114 KEY COMMUNITY SERVICES VULNERABILITIES Energy Delivery Energy delivery services in Contra Costa County include electricity and natural gas delivered through high-capacity utility lines and pipelines. In more rural areas of Contra Costa County, propane may be delivered via truck. Energy is needed for vital functions such as space heating, telecommunications, as well as entertainment and comfort. Major energy providers are MCE and PG&E. Extreme Heat Extreme heat can regularly cause power outages due to a combination of mechanical failure of electrical grid equipment, heat damage to the wires themselves, and high demand for electricity as a result of cooling equipment, all of which causes stress on the grid. As extreme heat events become more frequent and intense, disruptions in service are likely to become more frequent. The US Department of Energy estimates that a 9-degree increase in temperature reduces the capacity of power lines by 7 to 8 percent, and the capacity of electrical substations by 2 to 4 percent.115 Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -39 Landslides and Debris Flows Landslides can damage or destroy transmission lines and substations that are located in the hillside areas of the County. This could cause major disruptions in the power grid and could cause widespread power outages. Power outages can harm vulnerable populations and businesses.116 Severe Storms Energy delivery could be disrupted by severe weather if wind, hail, or thunderstorms cause the electrical grid to not function properly. If multiple sections or element of the system fail (substations, power plants, electricity lines) county residents and businesses could be without power for hours, days, or weeks depending on severity. Wildfire Wildfires can damage or destroy energy delivery infrastructure, which can cause power outages that can last for days or weeks depending on the severity of the event. This can directly harm the economy, government operations, public safety, and hinder wildfire recovery efforts. Public Transit Access Public transit within Contra Costa County is provided by County Connection, WestCAT, Tri Delta Transit, and AC Transit. Additional public transit that provides access to other regional locations includes BART and Amtrak. Shoreline Flooding Flooding Public transit routes are at risk for disruption to the extent they rely on vulnerable roads and bridges. Disruption of these services would be detrimental to those who do not own or operate vehicles.117 Residents may not be able to get essential goods and services, and commuters may be unable to go to work without public transit access. For rail and BART, if part of the lines is not functioning, then that could affect transit access on other parts of the line. Appendix C C -40 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Landslides and Debris Flows Landslides can block roadways, tunnels, and rail lines, which could substantially disrupt access to public transit in north, central, and west Contra Costa. These areas rely on public transit more and when disrupted, public transit may not be able to meet the needs of the community. Water and Wastewater These services involve treating and transporting water to be used by customers and transporting and treating wastewater so it can be safely released into the environment. Water and wastewater services are provided by several agencies and small private organizations throughout Contra Costa County and are critical to ensuring public and environmental health. Major water providers are East Bay Municipal Utilities District and Contra Costa Water District. Additional service districts within the county are Byron Sanitary District, Castle Rock County Water District, Central Contra Costa Sanitary District, County Sanitation District 6, Crockett Community Services District, Delta Diablo Sanitation District, Diablo Community Services District, Diablo Water District, Dublin-San Ramon Services District, Ironhouse Sanitary District, Mt. View Sanitary District, Rodeo Sanitary District, Stege Sanitary District, Town of Discovery Bay Community Services District, and West County Wastewater District. Shoreline Flooding Flooding Sea Level Rise Water and wastewater services can be disrupted from flooding if the wastewater treatment plants are not functioning properly. Flooding can exacerbate wet weather flows into the treatment plants with higher levels of stormwater and rising sea levels, which can prevent the system from functioning properly.118 Failure of these treatment plants could cause sewer systems to back up and potentially contaminate streams and water systems with raw sewage. Major points in the water delivery system could also be disrupted. Sea level rise may exacerbate these hazards. Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -41 Landslides and Debris Flows Water and wastewater services could be disrupted if the pipelines were to be damaged or destroyed from a landslide. This could cause both water and wastewater systems to not function properly. Wildfire Wildfires in the County could impact the reservoir water sources.119 Water quality can be degraded due to ash content or fire retardants that make their way into surface water storage. This may reduce the overall quantity of water that the water districts in the county have to supply agricultural, commercial, and residential demands. Appendix C C -42 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 Endnotes 1 Hall, Alex, Neil Berg, Katharine Reich. (University of California, Los Angeles). 2018. Los Angeles Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: SUM-CCCA4-2018-007. 2 Ackerly, David, Andrew Jones, Mark Stacey, Bruce Riordan. (University of California, Berkeley). 2018. San Francisco Bay Area Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: CCCA4-SUM-2018-005. 3 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 4 California Office of Environmental Health Hazards Assessment. CalEnviroScreen 4.0. https://oehha.ca.gov/calenviroscreen/report/calenviroscreen-40 5 Reid, Colleen E., Marie S. O’Neill, Carina J. Gronlund, Shannon J. Brines, Daniel G. Brown, Ana V. Diez-Roux, and Joel Schwartz. 2009a. “Mapping Community Determinants of Heat Vulnerability.” Environmental Health Perspectives 117 (11): 1730–36. 6 Gould, Solange, Dervin, Kathy. 2012. Climate Action for Health: Integrating Public Health into Climate Action Planning. California Department of Public Health. 7 Ackerly, David, Andrew Jones, Mark Stacey, Bruce Riordan. (University of California, Berkeley). 2018. San Francisco Bay Area Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: CCCA4-SUM-2018-005. 8 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 9 Envision Contra Costa. “Contra Costa County Briefing Book.” https://cocogis.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapSeries/index.html?appid=fc2415bbdacb409baf0f19fe802a81f3. 10 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 11 California Office of Environmental Health Hazards Assessment. CalEnviroScreen 4.0. https://oehha.ca.gov/calenviroscreen/report/calenviroscreen-40 12 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 13 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 14 Roos, Michelle. (E4 Strategic Solutions). 2018. Climate Justice Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: SUM-CCCA4-2018-012. 15 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 16 Envision Contra Costa. “Contra Costa County Briefing Book.” https://cocogis.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapSeries/index.html?appid=fc2415bbdacb409baf0f19fe802a81f3 17 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 18 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 19 Ackerly, David, Andrew Jones, Mark Stacey, Bruce Riordan. (University of California, Berkeley). 2018. San Francisco Bay Area Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: CCCA4-SUM-2018-005. Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -43 20 Contra Costa Health Services (CCHS). 2015. Climate Change Vulnerability in Contra Costa County: A Focus on Heat. 21 Contra Costa County Health Housing & Homeless. 2018. “2018 Point in Time Count.” https://cchealth.org/h3/coc/pdf/PIT-report-2018.pdf 22 Hall, Alex, Neil Berg, Katharine Reich. (University of California, Los Angeles). 2018. Los Angeles Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: SUM-CCCA4-2018-007. 23 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 24 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 25 Hall, Alex, Neil Berg, Katharine Reich. (University of California, Los Angeles). 2018. Los Angeles Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: SUM-CCCA4-2018-007. 26 California Office of Environmental Health Hazards Assessment. CalEnviroScreen 4.0. https://oehha.ca.gov/calenviroscreen/report/calenviroscreen-40 27 Contra Costa Health Services (CCHS). 2015. Climate Change Vulnerability in Contra Costa County: A Focus on Heat. 28 Zanobetti, A., O’Neill, M. S., Gronlund, C. J., et al. 2011. Summer temperature variability and long-term survival among elderly people with chronic disease. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 109(17). Pp. 6608-6613. 29 Luber, G., Knowlton, K., Balbus, J., et al. 2014. Climate Change Impacts in the United States: Chapter 9 – Human Health. 30 US Climate Resilience Toolkit. 2016. Extreme Heat-NIHHIS. https://toolkit.climate.gov/topics/human- health/extreme-heat. 31 CDC (Centers for Disease Control). 2011. "Heat and People with Chronic Medical Conditions". https://www.cdc.gov/extremeheat/medical.html. 32 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 33 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 34 Hall, Alex, Neil Berg, Katharine Reich. (University of California, Los Angeles). 2018. Los Angeles Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: SUM-CCCA4-2018-007. 35 Ackerly, David, Andrew Jones, Mark Stacey, Bruce Riordan. (University of California, Berkeley). 2018. San Francisco Bay Area Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment.Publication number: CCCA4-SUM-2018-005. 36 Envision Contra Costa. “Contra Costa County Briefing Book.” https://cocogis.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapSeries/index.html?appid=fc2415bbdacb409baf0f19fe802a81f3. 37 Envision Contra Costa. “Contra Costa County Briefing Book.” https://cocogis.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapSeries/index.html?appid=fc2415bbdacb409baf0f19fe802a81f3. 38 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 39 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 40 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 41 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 42 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. Appendix C C -44 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 43 Ackerly, David, Andrew Jones, Mark Stacey, Bruce Riordan. (University of California, Berkeley). 2018. San Francisco Bay Area Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: CCCA4-SUM-2018-005. 44 California Energy Commission. 2018. Electric Transmission Lines – California Energy Commission [ds1198]. https://www.arcgis.com/home/item.html?id=a5b51de6cb3b47c794021c4358fad97e 45 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 46 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 47 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 48 Cal Fire. 2007. “Contra Costa County Fire Hazard Severity Zones in SRA.” https://osfm.fire.ca.gov/media/6662/fhszs_map7.pdf 49 Ferrar, K. 2015. "CA Active Rail Lines". FracTracker Alliance. Accessed July 29, 2019. https://www.arcgis.com/home/item.html?id=8a4d7c68569e4b879fce558008976cea. 50 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 51 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 52 Ackerly, David, Andrew Jones, Mark Stacey, Bruce Riordan. (University of California, Berkeley). 2018. San Francisco Bay Area Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: CCCA4-SUM-2018-005. 53 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 54 Cal Fire. 2007. “Contra Costa County Fire Hazard Severity Zones in SRA.” https://osfm.fire.ca.gov/media/6662/fhszs_map7.pdf 55 California Office of Emergency Services. 2019. California Wastewater Treatment Facilities. https://www.arcgis.com/home/item.html?id=dfedf186401240bc8d382e80188ac512 56 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 57 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 58 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 59 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 60 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 61 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 62 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 63 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 64 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 65 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 66 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 67 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -45 68 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 69 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 70 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 71 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 72 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 73 Contra Costa County. 2018. 2017 Contra Costa County Agricultural Crop Report & 2019 Calendar. 74 Hall, Alex, Neil Berg, Katharine Reich. (University of California, Los Angeles). 2018. Los Angeles Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: SUM-CCCA4-2018-007. 75 US Dept. of Interior, Bureau of Reclamation. 2017. Bay Area Regional Reliability Drought Contingency Plan. 76 Kerr, A., Dialesandro, J., Steenwerth, K., Lopez-Brody, N., Elias, E. 2018. “Vulnerability of California specialty crops to projected mid-century temperature changes.” Climatic Change 148: 419-436. https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/s10584-017-2011-3.pdf 77 Soil Science Society of America. n.d. Farming after the Flood. https://www.soils.org/files/science- policy/caucus/briefings/farming-after-flood.pdf. 78 Motha, R. 2011. “The Impact of Extreme Weather Events on Agriculture in the United States.” Challenges and Opportunities in Agrometerology. https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-642-19360-6_30 79 Kohls, Jessica. 2015. HOW DOES WILDFIRE ASH AND SMOKE IMPACT CROPS?. https://dutchopeners.com/how- does-wildfire-ash-and-smoke-impact-crops/. 80 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 81 Contra Costa County. 2018. 2017 Contra Costa County Agricultural Crop Report & 2019 Calendar. 82 US Dept. of Interior, Bureau of Reclamation. 2017. Bay Area Regional Reliability Drought Contingency Plan. 83 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 84 East Bay Regional Park District. 2013. “Master Plan 2013.” https://www.ebparks.org/sites/default/files/master_plan_2013_final.pdf 85 Cal Fire. 2007. “Contra Costa County Fire Hazard Severity Zones in SRA.” https://osfm.fire.ca.gov/media/6662/fhszs_map7.pdf 86 Delta Protection Commission (DPC). 2015. 2015 Inventory of Recreation Facilities in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. 87 US Dept. of Interior, Bureau of Reclamation. 2017. Bay Area Regional Reliability Drought Contingency Plan. 88 US Dept. of Interior, Bureau of Reclamation. 2017. Bay Area Regional Reliability Drought Contingency Plan. 89 Delta Protection Commission (DPC). 2015. 2015 Inventory of Recreation Facilities in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. 90 Jones & Stokes. 2006. East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservation Plan and Natural Community Conservation Plan. http://www.co.contra-costa.ca.us/depart/cd/water/HCP/archive/final-hcp-rev/pdfs/ch03setting.pdf 91 US Dept. of Interior, Bureau of Reclamation. 2017. Bay Area Regional Reliability Drought Contingency Plan. 92 Ackerly, David, Andrew Jones, Mark Stacey, Bruce Riordan. (University of California, Berkeley). 2018. San Francisco Bay Area Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: CCCA4-SUM-2018-005. Appendix C C -46 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 93 US Dept. of Interior, Bureau of Reclamation. 2017. Bay Area Regional Reliability Drought Contingency Plan. 94 Roos, Michelle. (E4 Strategic Solutions). 2018. Climate Justice Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: SUM-CCCA4-2018-012. 95 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements 96 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 97 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 98 Jones & Stokes. 2006. East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservation Plan and Natural Community Conservation Plan. http://www.co.contra-costa.ca.us/depart/cd/water/HCP/archive/final-hcp-rev/pdfs/ch03setting.pdf 99 Habitat Conservation Plan Association. 2006. East Contra Costa County HCP/NCCP: Physical and Biological Resources. 100 US Dept. of Interior, Bureau of Reclamation. 2017. Bay Area Regional Reliability Drought Contingency Plan. 101 EcoAdapt. 2013. “Southern California Riparian Habitats.” https://ecoadapt.org/data/documents/EcoAdapt_SoCalVASynthesis_Riparian_FINAL2017.pdf 102 Jones & Stokes. 2006. East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservation Plan and Natural Community Conservation Plan. http://www.co.contra-costa.ca.us/depart/cd/water/HCP/archive/final-hcp-rev/pdfs/ch03setting.pdf 103 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 104 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 105 US Dept. of Interior, Bureau of Reclamation. 2017. Bay Area Regional Reliability Drought Contingency Plan. 106 US Dept. of Interior, Bureau of Reclamation. 2017. Bay Area Regional Reliability Drought Contingency Plan. 107 Habitat Conservation Plan Association. 2006. East Contra Costa County HCP/NCCP: Physical and Biological Resources. 108 Roos, Michelle. (E4 Strategic Solutions). 2018. Climate Justice Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: SUM-CCCA4-2018-012. 109 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 110 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 111 Jones & Stokes. 2006. East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservation Plan and Natural Community Conservation Plan. http://www.co.contra-costa.ca.us/depart/cd/water/HCP/archive/final-hcp-rev/pdfs/ch03setting.pdf 112 Habitat Conservation Plan Association. 2006. East Contra Costa County HCP/NCCP: Physical and Biological Resources 113 Ackerly, David, Andrew Jones, Mark Stacey, Bruce Riordan. (University of California, Berkeley). 2018. San Francisco Bay Area Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: CCCA4-SUM-2018-005. 114 Ackerly, David, Andrew Jones, Mark Stacey, Bruce Riordan. (University of California, Berkeley). 2018. San Francisco Bay Area Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: CCCA4-SUM-2018-005. Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – JulyAugust 2024 C -47 115 US Dept. of Energy. 2013. US Energy Sector Vulnerabilities to Climate Change and Extreme Weather. https://toolkit.climate.gov/sites/default/files/20130716-Energy%20Sector%20Vulnerabilities%20Report.pdf. 116 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 117 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 118 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 119 Ackerly, David, Andrew Jones, Mark Stacey, Bruce Riordan. (University of California, Berkeley). 2018. San Francisco Bay Area Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: CCCA4-SUM-2018-005. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN APPENDIX D: 2015 CAP GOALS Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 D -1 The 2015 Climate Action Plan (CAP) identified how the County planned to achieve the Assembly Bill (AB) 32 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction target of 15 percent below baseline levels by the year 2020, in addition to supporting other public health, energy efficiency, water conservation, and air quality goals identified in the County’s General Plan and other policy documents. This appendix summarizes the key accomplishments of the 2015 CAP. ENERGY EFFICIENCY These measures focus on energy efficiency in new and existing homes in the unincorporated areas of the county. As shown in Figures D-1 and D-2, the County has made strides towards achieving this goal with a total of 1,018 single-family home energy efficiency retrofits and 24 multifamily unit energy efficiency retrofits completed from 2015 through 2020. FIGURE D-1: SINGLE-FAMILY HOME ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROJECTS COMPLETED IN THE UNINCORPORATED COUNTY Appendix D: 2015 CAP Goals D -2 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 FIGURE D-2: MULTIFAMILY UNIT ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROJECTS COMPLETED IN UNINCORPORATED COUNTY RENEWABLE ENERGY The goals set in the 2015 CAP for renewable energy adoption included installing solar arrays to 50 new homes, 10 new businesses, 2,500 existing homes, and 60 existing businesses by 2020. As shown in Figures D-3 and D-4, the County has shattered that goal, issuing over 5,000 residential photovoltaic (PV) permits between 2018 and 2020. Appendix D: 2015 CAP Goals Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan –JAugust 2024 D -3 FIGURE D-3: RESIDENTIAL PV PERMITS IN UNINCORPORATED COUNTY FIGURE D-4: COMMERCIAL PV PERMITS IN UNINCORPORATED COUNTY Appendix D: 2015 CAP Goals D -4 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 LAND USE AND TRANSPORTATION Improving mobility and encouraging alternative-fuel vehicle adoption were the biggest areas of focus in the County’s 2015 CAP. Mobility Improvements The County Board of Supervisors has supported mobility improvements by accepting two mobility-related studies: the Iron Horse Corridor Active Transportation Study and the Marsh Creek Corridor Multi-Use Trail Feasibility Study. The Iron Horse Corridor Active Transportation Study will identify safety, access, and user-experience improvements on the 22-mile corridor. The Marsh Creek Corridor Multi-Use Trail Feasibility Study will inform the County on the feasibility of a new 12+ mile corridor between Clayton and the Round Valley Regional Preserve. EV Charging Stations For electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, the County has increased efforts to address the goals in the 2015 CAP. • The Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) completed its EV Readiness Blueprint in 2019, with help from the County. • In the same year, the Board of Supervisors streamlined the permitting process for EV chargers. Both efforts combined led to 1,325 charging stations being distributed throughout the county and an additional 317 stations added through the MCE’s rebate program as of December 2020. This influx in charging stations makes it possible to reach the 2015 CAP goals centered around distance traveled per EV. WASTE REDUCTION The County set a waste reduction goal of a 75 percent reduction in Pounds of Disposal Per Person Per Day (PPD). The County used 3.9 PPD as the target PPD. In 2020, the County recorded a PPD rate of 2.2, which equates to a 72 percent reduction (Figure D-5). Appendix D: 2015 CAP Goals Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan –JAugust 2024 D -5 FIGURE D-5: COUNTY WASTE DIVERSION RATE Appendix D: 2015 CAP Goals D -6 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan – August 2024 This page intentionally left blank. ATTACHMENT A.4 DRAFT 2045 GENERAL PLAN AND DRAFT CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN 2024 UPDATE USER GUIDE Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan User Guide What is the Draft General Plan? The Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan is the County’s primary policy tool to guide physical changes in the unincorporated areas of the county over the next 20 years. It serves as the basis for planning- and infrastructure-related decisions made by County staff and decision makers. It is built around the themes of environmental justice, community health, economic development, and sustainability. What is the Draft Climate Action Plan? The Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan (CAP) is the County’s strategic plan to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and to adapt to changing climate conditions, such as heat, flooding, droughts, and wildfires, in the unincorporated areas of the county. The CAP implements the General Plan’s policy guidance and addresses behaviors, regulations, and investment decisions that directly reduce GHG emissions or promote climate resilience. How can I Participate? The Draft General Plan and CAP are available for community review and input. Visit EnvisionContraCosta2040.org to view the plans, learn about upcoming meetings about the plans, and provide feedback. You can also email your commments to advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us EnvisionContraCosta2040.org What are the major themes of the Draft General Plan? Environmental Justice Environmental justice policies intend to improve the quality of life and health outcomes in Impacted Communities - those that experience the highest levels of historic discrimination, pollution, and social and economic disadvantages. Community Health Community health policies guide decisions to promote healthy lifestyles and reduce exposure to pollutants that can adversely affect people’s health. Economic Development Economic development policies aim to develop the county’s workforce and attract and support sustainable businesses and industries that provide living-wage jobs, hire from the local workforce, and engage with communities. Sustainability Sustainability policies and strategies in the General Plan and CAP conserve resources, improve resiliency, protect the environment, reduce pollution, and enhance quality of life. Photo Credit: Jennifer Groth. EnvisionContraCosta2040.org What about the environmental impacts of new development? The Draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the General Plan and CAP will be published in November 2023 and will be available on EnvisionContraCosta2040.org. The EIR will evaluate potential impacts to the county’s physical environment, examining topics like transportation, air quality, noise, and natural resources. The EIR will help the community and decisionmakers understand the anticipated pros and cons of the General Plan and CAP before they are adopted. Visit EnvisionContraCosta2040.org to sign up for our mailing list to receive a notification when the EIR is published. The County’s 2023-2031 Housing Element was adopted on June 13, 2023. It is the County’s blueprint for all housing-related decisions and sets an action plan to meet State required housing allocations and other statutory requirements, and to ensure that housing can be provided for all residents and community members. Visit EnvisionContraCosta2040.org to learn more. Where can I find the issues I care about in each element? The Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan is made up of these chapters, or Elements, that cover a wide range of topics important to community members. Element Name Important Topics Stronger Communities Environmental justice, community health, healthy homes, arts and culture, workforce development, business and innovation, community engagement. Land Use Land use designations and map, Urban Limit Line, 65/35 Land Preservation Standard, sustainable growth, quality design, land use and infrastructure coordination, intergovernmental coordination. Transportation Transportation safety and sustainability, coordination with other agencies, roadway definitions, connectivity, biking and walking, goods movement, airports. Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Open space, agricultural resources and economy, ecological resources, water resources, Delta and shoreline resources, historic and cultural resources, tribal communities, scenic resources, mineral resources, energy resources. Public Facilities and Services Water and wastewater service, drainage and flood risk, public safety and emergency services, solid waste management, parks and recreation, schools, libraries. Health and Safety Air quality, GHG emissions, climate change resilience and adaptation, flooding, sea level rise, wildfire, extreme heat, hazardous materials and waste, seismic and geologic hazards, emergency preparedness, evacuation, noise. Growth Management Growth impacts on facilities and services, cooperative planning with regional agencies, efficient land use patterns, infill and redevelopment. ATTACHMENT A.4 DRAFT 2045 GENERAL PLAN AND DRAFT CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN 2024 UPDATE USER GUIDE Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan User Guide What is the Draft General Plan? The Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan is the County’s primary policy tool to guide physical changes in the unincorporated areas of the county over the next 20 years. It serves as the basis for planning- and infrastructure-related decisions made by County staff and decision makers. It is built around the themes of environmental justice, community health, economic development, and sustainability. What is the Draft Climate Action Plan? The Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan (CAP) is the County’s strategic plan to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and to adapt to changing climate conditions, such as heat, flooding, droughts, and wildfires, in the unincorporated areas of the county. The CAP implements the General Plan’s policy guidance and addresses behaviors, regulations, and investment decisions that directly reduce GHG emissions or promote climate resilience. How can I Participate? The Draft General Plan and CAP are available for community review and input. Visit EnvisionContraCosta2040.org to view the plans, learn about upcoming meetings about the plans, and provide feedback. You can also email your commments to advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us EnvisionContraCosta2040.org What are the major themes of the Draft General Plan? Environmental Justice Environmental justice policies intend to improve the quality of life and health outcomes in Impacted Communities - those that experience the highest levels of historic discrimination, pollution, and social and economic disadvantages. Community Health Community health policies guide decisions to promote healthy lifestyles and reduce exposure to pollutants that can adversely affect people’s health. Economic Development Economic development policies aim to develop the county’s workforce and attract and support sustainable businesses and industries that provide living-wage jobs, hire from the local workforce, and engage with communities. Sustainability Sustainability policies and strategies in the General Plan and CAP conserve resources, improve resiliency, protect the environment, reduce pollution, and enhance quality of life. Photo Credit: Jennifer Groth. EnvisionContraCosta2040.org What about the environmental impacts of new development? The Draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the General Plan and CAP will be published in November 2023 and will be available on EnvisionContraCosta2040.org. The EIR will evaluate potential impacts to the county’s physical environment, examining topics like transportation, air quality, noise, and natural resources. The EIR will help the community and decisionmakers understand the anticipated pros and cons of the General Plan and CAP before they are adopted. Visit EnvisionContraCosta2040.org to sign up for our mailing list to receive a notification when the EIR is published. The County’s 2023-2031 Housing Element was adopted on June 13, 2023. It is the County’s blueprint for all housing-related decisions and sets an action plan to meet State required housing allocations and other statutory requirements, and to ensure that housing can be provided for all residents and community members. Visit EnvisionContraCosta2040.org to learn more. Where can I find the issues I care about in each element? The Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan is made up of these chapters, or Elements, that cover a wide range of topics important to community members. Element Name Important Topics Stronger Communities Environmental justice, community health, healthy homes, arts and culture, workforce development, business and innovation, community engagement. Land Use Land use designations and map, Urban Limit Line, 65/35 Land Preservation Standard, sustainable growth, quality design, land use and infrastructure coordination, intergovernmental coordination. Transportation Transportation safety and sustainability, coordination with other agencies, roadway definitions, connectivity, biking and walking, goods movement, airports. Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Open space, agricultural resources and economy, ecological resources, water resources, Delta and shoreline resources, historic and cultural resources, tribal communities, scenic resources, mineral resources, energy resources. Public Facilities and Services Water and wastewater service, drainage and flood risk, public safety and emergency services, solid waste management, parks and recreation, schools, libraries. Health and Safety Air quality, GHG emissions, climate change resilience and adaptation, flooding, sea level rise, wildfire, extreme heat, hazardous materials and waste, seismic and geologic hazards, emergency preparedness, evacuation, noise. Growth Management Growth impacts on facilities and services, cooperative planning with regional agencies, efficient land use patterns, infill and redevelopment. ATTACHMENT A.5 DRAFT 2045 GENERAL PLAN AND DRAFT CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN 2024 UPDATE OVERVIEW Our Vision for Contra Costa County in 2045: ●Communities are inclusive, close-knit, thriving, and engaged. ●All residents feel safe and secure in their homes and neighborhoods. ●Housing is affordable for everyone and no one is left without a home. ●All communities benefit equitably from a growing economy that is sustainable and just. ●All residents live in communities where they breathe clean air, are not burdened with toxic exposures, and have an opportunity to pursue healthy and fulfilling lives. ●Everyone enjoys safe, affordable, and reliable public transportation that takes them where they want and need to go: to good-paying sustainable jobs, quality schools, affordable grocery stores and essential services, recreation, and health care facilities. ●There are parks, community centers and gardens, small businesses, and faith spaces available to serve everyone in the diverse population. ●The county’s scenic landscapes and unique natural features are preserved. ●Focused and ambitious actions are taken to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve community resilience, and adapt equitably to a changing climate. Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan & Climate Action Plan 2024 Update OVERVIEW Draft 2045 General Plan & Climate Action Plan 2024 Update Contra Costa County – Overview | 2 What is the General Plan? The Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan is the County’s pri- mary policy tool to guide physical changes in the unincorporat- ed areas of the county over the next 20 years. It serves as the basis for planning- and infrastructure-related decisions made by County staff and decision-makers. It is built around the themes of environmental justice, community health, economic develop- ment, and sustainability, and organized into topic-specific “ele- ments” or chapters. Each element contains a set of goals related to the topic; to help achieve each goal, the General Plan includes policies to guide decision-making, along with specific actions that the County will undertake. California law requires every county and city in the state to adopt a general plan to guide develop- ment in the area, normally over a timeframe of approximately 20 years. The Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan replaces the previous General Plan, which was adopted in January 1991. Introduction What are the major themes of the Draft General Plan? Environmental Justice Environmental justice policies intend to improve the quality of life and health outcomes in Impact- ed Communities – those that experience the high- est levels of historic discrimination, pollution, and social and economic disadvantages. Community Health Community health policies guide deci- sions to promote healthy lifestyles and reduce exposure to pollutants that can adversely affect people’s health. Economic Development Economic development policies aim to develop the county’s workforce and attract and support sustainable businesses and industries that provide living-wage jobs, hire from the local workforce, and engage with communities. Sustainability Sustainability policies and strategies in the General Plan and CAP conserve nat- ural resources, improve resiliency, pro- tect the environment, reduce pollution, and enhance quality of life. Envision Contra Costa Timeline Project Start-Up ●Background Research ●Greenhouse Gas Inventory ●Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment ●Online Briefing Book Community Conversations ●Community-Specific Meetings ●Draft Community Profiles ●Open House Series on Countywide Issues ●Environmental Justice Policy Discussions Policy Development ●Countywide Policy Development ●Draft Land Use Map ●Draft Climate Action Plan (CAP) Strategies Draft Plans ●Draft General Plan ●Draft CAP ●Draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR) Final Plans ●Final EIR ●Adoption Hearings ●Final General Plan and CAP Draft 2045 General Plan & Climate Action Plan 2024 Update Contra Costa County – Overview | 3 Element Name Important topics Stronger Communities Environmental justice, community health, healthy homes, arts and culture, workforce development, business and innovation, community engagement. Land Use Land use designations and map (see pages 6-7), Urban Limit Line, 65/35 Land Preservation Stan- dard, sustainable growth, quality design, land use and infrastructure coordination, intergovernmen- tal coordination. Transportation Transportation safety and sustainability, coordination with other agencies, roadway definitions, con- nectivity, biking and walking, goods movement, airports. Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Open space, agricultural resources and economy, ecological resources, water resources, Delta and shoreline resources, historic and cultural resources, tribal communities, scenic resources, mineral resources, energy resources. Public Facilities and Services Water and wastewater service, drainage and flood risk, public safety and emergency services, solid waste management, parks and recreation, schools, libraries. Health and Safety Air quality, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, climate change resilience and adaptation, flooding, sea level rise, wildfire, extreme heat, hazardous materials and waste, seismic and geologic hazards, emergency preparedness, evacuation, noise. Growth Management Growth impacts on facilities and services, cooperative planning with regional agencies, efficient land use patterns, infill and redevelopment. The County’s 2023-2031 Housing Element was adopted separately on June 13, 2023. It is the County’s blueprint for all housing-related decisions and sets an action plan to meet State required housing allocations and other statutory requirements, and to ensure that housing can be provided for all residents and community members. Community Profiles Each community in unincorporated Contra Costa County is unique with its own set of needs and characteristics. Community members treasure certain amenities and features and want to see them preserved and enhanced. They also want to see specific issues addressed in their community. Therefore, the Stronger Communities Element contains a set of Community Profiles that establish a vision and provide policy guidance for each community, shaped by conversations with community members. 97 community & stakeholder meetings Over 1,270 people attended and they submitted over 4,600 comments We also held over 35 workshops with policy makers and advisors Draft 2045 General Plan & Climate Action Plan 2024 Update Contra Costa County – Overview | 4Environmental Justice AR SR E R H CCC SM TH NorthRichmond KNS Rodeo SP BI Crockett AV RV CH AL KNT NG Vine Hill/Mountain View Pacheco BayPointClyde DI BL CT BY PC NC Montara Bay/Rollingwood ES SS PM ES DB }ÿ160 }ÿ4 }ÿ242 }ÿ4 }ÿ4 }ÿ24 }ÿ4 §¨¦80 567J4 §¨¦680 §¨¦580 §¨¦680 }ÿ4 }ÿ4 §¨¦680 §¨¦80 }ÿ4 Carquinez S t r a i t San JoaquinR i v e rOldRive r San Pablo Rese r voir BrionesReservoir CliftonCourtForebay BigBreak Franks Tract San Pablo Bay SanLeandroReservoir SanFranciscoBay Sui sunBay Los VaquerosReservoir OldRive r C E R R I T O PA B L O M A R T I N E Z P L E A S A N T H I L L C O N C O R D L A FAY E T T E C L AY TO N D A N V I L L E P I T T S B U R G A N T I O C H O A K L E Y B R E N T W O O D S A N E L WA L N U T C R E E K O R I N D A M O R A G A R I C H M O N D S A N R A M O N H E R C U L E S P I N O L E Brow ns Island Winter Island Jersey Island BradfordIsland Webb Tract Quimby Island Holland Tract VealeTract PalmTractBixler Tract Orw ood Tract Agricultural Core Byron Tract Coney Island Byron Airport Marsh Creek Bollinger Canyon Briones Tassajara Valley Mor gan Territory Franklin Canyon Canyon Mount Diablo ° Source: California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA): CalEnviroScreen 4.0 0 5 102.5 Miles - North R ichmond - Pacheco - Parkmead - Por t Costa - Reliez Valley - Rodeo - Rollingwo od - San Miguel - Sandmound Slough - Saranap - Shell R idge - Tara Hills - Vine Hill NR PA PM PC RV RO RW SM SS SP SR TH VH - Diablo - Discovery Bay - East Richmond Heights - El Sobrante - Kensington - Knightsen - Montalvin Manor - Mountain View - Norris Canyon - Nor th Gate DI DB ERH ES KNS KNT MM MV NC NG - Bethel Island - Blackhawk - Byron - Camino Tassaj ara - Castle Hill - Clyde - Contra Costa Centre - Crockett BI BL BY CT CH CL CCC CR - Acalanes Ridge - Alamo - Alhambra Valley - Bayview - Bay Point AR AL AV BV BP Impacted Communi ty City Limits Throughout California, low-income communities and communities of color have experienced a combination of historical discrimina- tion, neglect, and political and economic disempowerment. The result is that today they are impacted with higher pollution burdens and associated health conditions than other communities, as well as social and economic disadvantages like poverty or housing instability. Many low-income households and communities of color in unincorporated Contra Costa County are concentrated in neighborhoods where they continue to face significant threats to their health and livelihood. The General Plan includes a map of these “Impacted Communities” and many of its policies and actions prioritize improving conditions in these communities. AR SR E R H CCC SM TH NorthRichmond KNS Rodeo SP BI Crockett AV RV CH AL KNT NG Vine Hill/Mountain View Pacheco BayPointClyde DI BL CT BY PC NC Montara Bay/Rollingwood ES SS PM ES DB }ÿ160 }ÿ4 }ÿ242 }ÿ4 }ÿ4 }ÿ24 }ÿ4 §¨¦80 567J4 §¨¦680 §¨¦580 §¨¦680 }ÿ4 }ÿ4 §¨¦680 §¨¦80 }ÿ4 Carquinez S t r a i t San JoaquinR i v e rOldRive r San Pablo Rese rvoir BrionesReservoir CliftonCourtForebay BigBreak FranksTract San Pablo Bay SanLeandroReservoir SanFranciscoBay SuisunBay Los VaquerosReservoir OldRive r C E R R IT O PA B LO M A R T I NE Z P L E A S A N T H I L L CO N CO R D L A FAYE T T E C L AY TO N D A N V I L L E P I T T S B U R G A N T I O C H O A K LE Y B R E NT W O O D S A N E L WA L N U TCREEK O R I N D A M O R A G A R I C H M O N D S A N RA M O N H E R C U L E S P I N O L E BrownsIsland WinterIsland Jersey Island BradfordIsland WebbTract Quimby Island HollandTract VealeTract PalmTractBixlerTract OrwoodTract Agricultural Core Byron Tract Coney Island Byron Airport Marsh Creek Bollinger Canyon Briones Tassajara Valley Morgan Territory Franklin Canyon Canyon Mount Diablo ° Source: California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA): CalEnviroScreen 4.0 0 5 102.5 Miles - North Richmond - Pacheco - Parkmead - Port Costa - Reliez Valley - Rodeo - Rollingwood - San Miguel - Sandmound Slough - Saranap - Shell Ridge - Tara Hills - Vine Hill NR PA PM PC RV RO RW SM SS SP SR TH VH - Diablo - Discovery Bay - East Richmond Heights - El Sobrante - Kensington - Knightsen - Montalvin Manor - Mountain View - Norris Canyon - North Gate DI DB ERH ES KNS KNT MM MV NC NG - Bethel Island - Blackhawk - Byron - Camino Tassajara - Castle Hill - Clyde - Contra Costa Centre - Crockett BI BL BY CT CH CL CCC CR - Acalanes Ridge - Alamo - Alhambra Valley - Bayview - Bay Point AR AL AV BV BP Impacted Community City Limits Clean Industry & Jobs Many of the policies and actions in the 2045 Gen- eral Plan focus on reducing pollution from new or expanded industry while increasing job opportuni- ties in Impacted Communities. Policies and actions in the Stronger Communities Element support and plan for a transition from highly polluting industries to a net-zero emission economy based on renewable and sustainable industries that provide living-wage jobs and healthy working conditions. The Health and Safety Element includes policies and actions to im- prove air quality in Impacted Communities by requir- ing new or expanded industries to mitigate pollutants at the source and locate sources of pollution far from vulnerable populations. Draft 2045 General Plan & Climate Action Plan 2024 Update Contra Costa County – Overview | 5Community Health Promoting public health and achieving healthy communities through the built environment is a fundamental goal of the 2045 General Plan. The layout of our communities, the designs of buildings and public spaces, and the effectiveness of our transporta- tion networks affect whether residents can make healthy food choices, walk or bike to a destination, play outside, and breathe clean air. The 2045 General Plan also emphasizes access to safe, sanitary, and affordable housing as a fundamental part of strong, healthy, and just communities. There is a recognized relationship between strong communities, physical and mental health, and well-designed spaces. The most livable communities have high-quality public spaces that enhance community character, offer op- portunities for formal and informal social interaction, and promote active recreation. Vibrant Neighborhoods Policies throughout the 2045 General Plan support vibrant and di- verse neighborhoods that promote social connections, neighbor- hood identity, and artistic and cultural expression. In particular, the Stronger Communities Element and Public Facilities and Services Element contain policies that promote cultural, community-driven, and beautification events, such as art festivals, farmers’ markets, and community service days. Other policies and actions support the incorporation of public art and beautification into new devel- opment projects and the establishment of cultural facilities and programs that are accessible to all residents. The Land Use Ele- ment promotes a variety of housing types and infill development of existing urban areas, activating spaces that had been previously vacant or underutilized. Healthy Lifestyles The 2045 General Plan supports the opportunity for everyone to lead healthy lifestyles. The Stronger Communities Element includes policies to increase access to fresh, healthy, and affordable food, espe- cially in Impacted Communities, by encouraging gro- cery stores, urban agriculture, and farmers’ markets on vacant or underutilized land. The Public Facilities and Services Element addresses inequitable access to parks and recreational spaces through policies and actions to assess park and open space needs in indi- vidual communities, prioritizing the assessment and investment of resources in Impacted Communities. Draft 2045 General Plan & Climate Action Plan 2024 Update Contra Costa County – Overview | 6Land Use Map RW AR SR E R H CCC SM TH NR KNS RO SP BI BV CR AV MV RV CH AL KNT NG DB VH PA BP CL DI BL CT BY PC NC MM ES SS PM ES }ÿ160 }ÿ4}ÿ242 }ÿ4 }ÿ4 }ÿ24 }ÿ4 §¨¦80 567J4 §¨¦680 §¨¦580 §¨¦680 }ÿ4 }ÿ4 §¨¦680 §¨¦80 }ÿ4 }ÿ4 C arquinezStrait S a nJoaquinRiv e r OldRiver San Pablo Rese rvoir BrionesReservoir CliftonCourtForebay BigBreak Franks Tract San Pablo Bay SanLeandroReservoir SanFranciscoBay SuisunBay Los VaquerosReservoir OldRiverC E R R I T O R I C H M O N D PA B LO P I N O L E H E R C U L E S M A R T I N E Z P L E A S A N T H I L L CO N CO R D L A FAY E T T EORINDA M O R A G A WA L N U T C R E E K C L AY T O N D A N V I L L E S A N R A M O N P I T T S B U R G A N T I O C H O A K L E Y B R E N T W O O D S A N EL Browns Island Winter Island Jersey Island BradfordIsland WebbTract Quimby Island HollandTract VealeTract Palm TractBixlerTract OrwoodTract Agricultural Core Byron Tract Coney Island Byron Airport Marsh Creek Morgan TerritoryMount Diablo Tassajara Valley Bollinger Canyon Canyon Franklin Canyon Briones Camp Parks Military Ocean Terminal Concord Buchanan Field Keller Canyon Landfill Camino Diablo Sa n d C reek RdSomersvilleRdHillcrestAveLaurel Rd Monument BlvdConcord BlvdCr ockett B l vdM c E w e n R d R i c hm ondR dViewVa ll e y Bixler RdVasco RdC on co r d Ave Pinole ValleyRd BollingerCanyo n R d M t Diablo B lv d B lv dWay Armstrong Rd Rudgear RdTice O l ym pic MorganTerrit o r y RdY g n a c ioValleyRdClayton Rd Bollinge r C a nyon R d MarshCreek Rd LoneTreeWa y B yr o n H w y C ro w C a n y o n R d A lh a mb r a A v e DeerValleyRdPinehurst Rd A lh a m bra ValleyRd W illowPassRdMoragaRdHighland R dSa n P a blo D am Rd Moraga Way D o u ghertyRdC a mi noTassajaraC u m m in g s S kwy T reat B lvdMarsh Creek Rd B earCreek R d Danville Blvd Blackhawk RdOa k Gr o v e R d Cutting Blvd Pittsburg Antioch Hwy StoneValley Rd E Cypress Rd Cont raCostaBlvdSt Marys RdWalnut BlvdByron HwyHappy Valley R d Wilbur AveJohnMuirPkwy Buchanan Rd 18th St MacDonaldAve JamesDonlon Blvd TaylorB l v d KirkerPassR d Brentwood Blvd Wildcat Cany o n R d Main StSellers AveWindemere PkwyRheem Blvd Eden Plains Rd23rd StRailroad AveMain St Arlington B l v d Chestnut St Balfour Rd Knightsen AveDelta RdBailey RdWillow P a ss Rd BethelIsland RdAppianCastroR a n c h Rd Ge ary Rd Center Ave Rd P k w y Byron HotSpringsRdOak Park Blvd L iv o rn a M a rs h D r10th St S a n Pablo A v eGarrard BlvdPl easantHil l RdR eliez Valley R d B a n c roftR d Waterfro n t R d PortChicagoHwy Castro StOak RdBrentwood BlvdPa c h e c oBlv d SanPabloAve Rd N orrisCa n y on ValleyBlvd ElPortalRd C arlson Blvd - Acalanes R idge - Alamo - Alhambra Valley - Bayview - Bay Point AR AL AV BV BP - Bethel Island - Blackhawk - Byron - Camino Tassajara - Castle Hill - Clyde - Contra Costa Centre - Crockett BI BL BY CT CH CL CCC CR - Diablo - Discovery Bay - East Richmond Heights - El Sobrante - Kensington - Knightsen - Montalvin Manor - Mountain View - Norris Canyon - North Gate DI DB ERH ES KNS KNT MM MV NC NG - Nor th Richmond - Pacheco - Parkmead - Port Costa - Reliez Valley - Rodeo - Rollingwood - San Miguel - Sandmound Slough - Saranap - Shell R idge - Tara Hills - Vine Hill NR PA PM PC RV RO RW SM SS SP SR TH VHCity Limits WA (Water) LI (Light Industrial) PS (Public / Semi Public) CR (Commercial Recreation) PR (Park and Recreation) AC (Agricultural Core) AL (Agricultural Lands) RC (Resource Conservation) HI (Heavy Industrial) RL (Residential-Low Density) (1-3 du/na) RLM (Residential-Low Medium Density) (3-7 du/na) RM (Residential-M edium Density) (7-17 du/na) RMH (Residential-Medium High Density) (17-30 du/na) RH (Residential-High Density) (30-60 du/na) RVL (Residential-Very Low Density) (≤1 du/na) RVH (Residential-Very High Density) (60-125 du/na) MUM (Mixed Use Medium) (30-75 du/na) CO (Commercial and Office) MUH (Mixed Use High) (75-125 du/na) MUC (Mixed Use Community Specific) (Variable du/na) RX (Residential-Maximum D ensity) (126≤ du/na) MUL (Mixed Use Low) (0 -30 du/na) °0 5 102.5 Miles General Plan Land Use Designations Draft 2045 General Plan & Climate Action Plan 2024 Update Contra Costa County – Overview | 7 RW AR SR E R H CCC SM TH NR KNS RO SP BI BV CR AV MV RV CH AL KNT NG DB VH PA BP CL DI BL CT BY PC NC MM ES SS PM ES }ÿ160 }ÿ4}ÿ242 }ÿ4 }ÿ4 }ÿ24 }ÿ4 §¨¦80 567J4 §¨¦680 §¨¦580 §¨¦680 }ÿ4 }ÿ4 §¨¦680 §¨¦80}ÿ4 }ÿ4 C arquinezStrait S a nJoaquinRiv e r OldRiver San Pablo Reservoir BrionesReservoir CliftonCourtForebay BigBreak Franks Tract San Pablo Bay SanLeandroReservoir SanFranciscoBay SuisunBay Los VaquerosReservoir OldRiverCERRITO RICHMOND PABLO PINOLE HERCULES MARTINEZ PLEASANT HILL CONCORD LAFAYETTEORINDA MORAGA WALNUT CREEK C L AY T O N DA N V I L L E S A N R A M O N P I T T S B U R G A N T I O C H O A K L E Y B R E N T W O O D SAN EL Browns Island Winter Island Jersey Island BradfordIsland WebbTract Quimby Island HollandTract VealeTract Palm TractBixlerTract OrwoodTract Agricultural Core Byron Tract Coney Island Byron Airport Marsh Creek Morgan TerritoryMount Diablo Tassajara Valley Bollinger Canyon Canyon Franklin Canyon Briones Camp Parks Military Ocean Terminal Concord Buchanan Field Keller Canyon Landfill Camino Diablo Sa n d C reek RdSomersvilleRdHillcrestAveLaurel Rd Monument BlvdConcord BlvdCr ockett B l vdM c E w e n R d Richmond R dViewVa ll e y Bixler RdVasco RdConcordAve PinoleValleyRd BollingerCanyo n Rd MtDiabloBlvd BlvdWay Armstrong Rd RudgearRdTice Olympic MorganTerrit o r y RdYgnacioValleyRd Clayton Rd Bollinge r C a nyon R d MarshCreek Rd LoneTreeWa y B yr o n H w y C ro w C a n y o n R d A lh a mb r a A v e DeerValleyRdPinehurst Rd AlhambraValleyRd WillowPassRd MoragaRdHighland R dSa n P a blo D am Rd Moraga Way D o u ghertyRdC a mi noTassajaraC u m m in g s S kwy Treat Blvd Marsh Creek Rd B earCreek R d Danville Blvd Blackhawk RdOa k Gr o v e R d Cutting Blvd Pittsburg Antioch Hwy StoneValley Rd E Cypress Rd Cont raCostaBlvdSt Marys RdWalnut BlvdByron HwyHappyValley R d Wilbur AveJohnMuirPkwy Buchanan Rd 18th St MacDonaldAve JamesDonlon Blvd TaylorBlvd KirkerPassR d Brentwood Blvd WildcatCanyonRd Main StSellers AveWindemere PkwyRheem Blvd Eden Plains Rd23rd StRailroad AveMain St Arlington B l v d Chestnut St Balfour Rd Knightsen AveDelta RdBailey RdWillow P a ss Rd BethelIsland RdAppianCastroRanchRd Geary Rd Center Ave Rd Pkwy Byron HotSpringsRdOak Park Blvd Livorna Marsh Dr 10th St SanPabloAve Garrard BlvdPl easantHil l RdR eliez Valley R d B a n c roftR d WaterfrontRd PortChicagoHwy Castro StOak RdBrentwood BlvdPa c h e c oBlv d SanPabloAve Rd NorrisCanyon ValleyBlvd ElPortalRd C arlson Blvd - Acalanes R idge - Alamo - Alhambra Valley - Bayview - Bay Point AR AL AV BV BP - Bethel Island - Blackhawk - Byron - Camino Tassajara - Castle Hill - Clyde - Contra Costa Centre - Crockett BI BL BY CT CH CL CCC CR - Diablo - Discovery Bay - East Richmond Heights - El Sobrante - Kensington - Knightsen - Montalvin Manor - Mountain View - Norris Canyon - North Gate DI DB ERH ES KNS KNT MM MV NC NG - Nor th Richmond - Pacheco - Parkmead - Port Costa - Reliez Valley - Rodeo - Rollingwood - San Miguel - Sandmound Slough - Saranap - Shell R idge - Tara Hills - Vine Hill NR PA PM PC RV RO RW SM SS SP SR TH VHCity Limits WA (Water) LI (Light Industrial) PS (Public / Semi Public) CR (Commercial Recreation) PR (Park and Recreation) AC (Agricultural Core) AL (Agricultural Lands) RC (Resource Conservation) HI (Heavy Industrial) RL (Residential-Low Density) (1-3 du/na) RLM (Residential-Low Medium Density) (3-7 du/na) RM (Residential-Medium Density) (7-17 du/na) RMH (Residential-Medium High Density) (17-30 du/na) RH (Residential-High Density) (30-60 du/na) RVL (Residential-Very Low Density) (≤1 du/na) RVH (Residential-Very High Density) (60-125 du/na) MUM (Mixed Use Medium) (30-75 du/na) CO (Commercial and Office) MUH (Mixed Use High) (75-125 du/na) MUC (Mixed Use Community Specific) (Variable du/na) RX (Residential-Maximum Density) (126≤ du/na) MUL (Mixed Use Low) (0-30 du/na) °05102.5Miles General Plan Land Use Designations Draft 2045 General Plan & Climate Action Plan 2024 Update Contra Costa County – Overview | 8Economic Development When planning for land uses and economic opportunities in Contra Costa County, the jobs-to- housing balance is an important consideration, as the ratio of jobs to employed residents directly affects peoples' ability to work and live in the same area. The county currently has a jobs-housing imbalance, with only about 0.9 jobs for every home, causing many residents to commute out of county to the Bay Area and beyond. Ideally, there would be 1.4 jobs for every home in the county since there are about 1.4 employed residents per home. Contra Costa County is home to compa- nies and organizations across a broad spectrum of industries, but less than 10 percent of the jobs are in the unincorporated areas. To attract new and retain existing businesses and jobs, the county must offer a workforce that possesses the education and skills employers need. Northern Waterfront The 2045 General Plan contains policies to support a resilient and diversified economy through endeavors like the Northern Waterfront Economic Development Initiative, a regional strat- egy to create 18,000 new jobs along the Northern Waterfront by 2035. The General Plan also includes policy guidance to promote expansion of clean manufacturing and development of Priority Production Areas in Bay Point and the North Con- cord/Pacheco/Vine Hill area, which are areas that the County and regional agencies will prioritize for investments and pro- tection from competing land uses. 1.4 Jobs for every Home 0.9 JOBS for every 1 HOME The Target Local Workers and Businesses The 2045 General Plan contains policies that support schools, training programs, the Workforce Development Board, and other institutions to develop and enhance local workforce skills. It also directs the County to establish a First Source Hiring Program that requires good-faith ef- forts toward employing the local construction workforce. To encourage economic growth, the General Plan directs the County to adopt an Economic Development Strategy to define a vision for the county’s economy, identify and target suitable growth industries, and facilitate economic development and employment growth. Draft 2045 General Plan & Climate Action Plan 2024 Update Contra Costa County – Overview | 9Sustainability Sustainability means ensuring that Contra Costa County can meet its current resource needs in a way that isn’t detrimental to future generations. This includes using resources that are renewable (meaning that they don’t run out), minimizing waste, and improving resilience, which is the ability to withstand, recover, adapt, and learn from disasters and extreme events. Another impor- tant aspect of sustainability is conserving natural and working lands, which provide climate benefits by storing carbon, as well as ecological, recreational, and scenic benefits. To manage and guide growth in Contra Costa County, voters adopted the 65/35 Land Preservation Standard and Urban Limit Line (ULL). The 65/35 Standard limits urban development to no more than 35 percent of the land area of the county, while the ULL defines where such uses can be applied. Communities that plan for sustainability, includ- ing how to make themselves more resilient, are in a better position to improve their economy, public health and well-being, and overall quality of life. Sustainable Land Use and Transportation The Land Use Element includes policies and actions that support sustain- able development patterns by focusing on infill development, directing housing and jobs in close proximity, and encouraging high-density, mixed- use development near transit centers. In addition, the Transportation El- ement includes policy guidance to increase access to zero-emission ve- hicles, as well as to reduce dependence on personal vehicles by prioritizing investments in bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure and supporting the expansion of transit. Natural & Working Lands The Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element contains policies and actions to preserve open spaces and agricultural lands and ensure the health and viability of natural and working lands is prioritized when there are potential conflicts with urban uses. The Land Use Element also includes policies that support the 65/35 Land Preservation Standard and ULL. -200,000 -100,000 0 100,000 200,000 300,000 400,000 500,000 GHG emissions (MTCO2e)Transportation Residential Energy Nonresidential energy Solid Waste Agriculture Off-road equipment Water and wastewater BART Land use and sequestration Draft 2045 General Plan & Climate Action Plan 2024 Update Contra Costa County – Overview | 10Climate Action Plan What is the Climate Action Plan? Responding to climate change requires a two-pronged approach of mitigation and adaptation. Cities and counties must reduce the amount of greenhouse gases (GHGs) that are emitted into the atmosphere from sources under their jurisdiction, while also adapting to the various hazards associated with climate change, such as wildfires, floods, droughts, and sea level rise. The Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan 2024 Update (2024 CAP) is the County’s strategic plan to reduce GHG emissions and to improve resilience to changing climate conditions in the unincorporated areas of the county. The 2024 CAP implements the 2045 General Plan’s policy guidance and addresses behaviors, regulations, and investment decisions that directly reduce GHG emissions or pro- mote climate resilience. This approach supports a holistic view of climate action planning and sustainability—it works to reduce Contra Costa County’s contribution to climate change by mitigating GHGs while simultaneously preparing for the changes that cannot be avoided through adaptation strategies. (Photo Credit: Jennifer Groth.) Emissions by Sector with Climate Action Plan (2019 vs 2045) Draft 2045 General Plan & Climate Action Plan 2024 Update Contra Costa County – Overview | 11 Clean and Efficient Built Environment (BE)Homes, workplaces, and businesses in unincorporated Contra Costa County run efficiently on clean energy. No Waste Contra Costa (NW)Contra Costa County disposes of no more solid waste than 2.2 pounds per person per day (PPD). Reduce Water Use and Increase Drought Resilience (DR)Contra Costa County uses less water and communities are prepared for drought. Clean Transportation Network (TR)Contra Costa County’s transportation network provides safe and accessible options for walking, biking, and transit. If residents and workers are driving, they are in zero-emission vehicles. Resilient Communities and Natural Infrastructure (NI)Contra Costa County will increase resilience to climate hazards and foster community health. Climate Equity (CE)Contra Costa County will address environmental factors leading to health disparities, promote safe and livable communities, and promote investments that improve neighborhood accessibility. Leadership (L)Contra Costa County is a model for how local government can take action on climate issues. Implementation (IS)Contra Costa County will ensure it follows through to achieve the goals and actions in this Climate Action Plan. Climate Action Plan Goals and Strategies The 2024 CAP presents climate action strategies that will allow the County to attain its GHG emis- sions reduction goals while improving community resilience and supporting its goals for growth, economic development, and environmental justice. These climate action strategies include those that directly reduce GHG emissions and those that help lower emissions but are not as easy to di- rectly track, as well as strategies to help improve community resilience to climate hazards through adaptation. In total, there are 29 comprehensive strategies that are organized into the following categories and goals. For each strategy, the 2024 CAP also presents recommended actions neces- sary for implementation. Draft 2045 General Plan & Climate Action Plan 2024 Update Contra Costa County – Overview | 12Tell Us What You Think! Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan & Climate Action Plan 2024 Update OVERVIEW What’s Next? October 2023 December 2023 June-August 2024 ●Publish Draft General Plan & CAP ●Publish Draft EIR ●Publish Final EIR ●Planning Commission Adoption Hearings ●Board of Supervisors Adoption Hearings Printed on recycled content paper The Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan and 2024 CAP are ready for your review. Com- munity input and direction gathered since 2019, when the Envision Contra Costa process began, have formed the foundation of each plan. Now is the time to check our work and make sure we got it right! Visit Envisioncontracosta2040.org or scan the QR code to the right to view each document and share your feedback. You can also attend an upcoming meeting about the plans to tell us what you think; more information about upcoming meetings is available on the website. (Photo Credit: Hao Li.) ATTACHMENT A.6 DRAFT 2045 GENERAL PLAN AND DRAFT CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN 2024 UPDATE SPANISH LANGUAGE POWERPOINT Desde otoño de 2023 hasta invierno de 2024 • envisioncontracosta2040.org 1 Envision Contra Costa Plan General Ordenanza de zonificación Plan de Acción Climática Informe de impacto ambiental 2 Borrador del Plan General 3 Temas del Plan General Salud comunitaria Desarrollo económico Justicia ambiental Sostenibilidad 4 Elementos del Plan General 5 Comunidades más fuertes Uso del seulo Transporte Viviendas Conservación, espacios abiertos y tierras laborales. Instalaciones y servicios públicos Salud y seguridad Gestión del crecimiento Mapa de usos del suelo del Plan General 6 Plan general de utilización del terreno RVL (Residencial de densidad muy baja) (≤1 du/na) RL (Residencial de densidad baja) (1-3 du/na) RLM (Residencial de densidad baja media) (3-7 du/na) RM (Residencial de densidad media) (7-17 du/na) RMH (Residencial de densidad media alta) (17-30 du/na) RH (Residencial de densidad alta) (30-60 du/na) RVH (Residencial de densidad muy alta) (60-125 du/na) RX (Residencial de densidad máxima) (126≤ du/na) MUL (Uso mixto bajo) (0-30 du/na) MUM (Uso mixto medio) (30-75 du/na) MUH (Uso mixto alto) (75-125 du/na) MUC (Uso mixto específico de la comunidad) (Variable du/na) CO (Comercial y de oficina) LI (Industrial ligera) HI (Industrial pesada) PS (Pública/Semi-pública) CR (Recreación comercial) PR (Parque y recreación) RC (Conservación de los recursos) AC (Núcleo agrícola) AL (Terreno agrícola) WA (Agua) Límites de la ciudad 7 Justicia ambiental Límites de la ciudad Comunidad afectada Justicia ambiental •Aspectos destacados de la política de industria y empleo limpios: •Planificar una transición de las industrias altamente contaminantes a una economía de emisiones netas cero que proporcione empleos con salarios dignos. •Exigir que las industrias nuevas o en expansión mitiguen los contaminantes en origen y separen las fuentes de contaminación de los receptores sensibles 8 Salud comunitaria •Aspectos destacados de la política de estilos de vida saludables: •Aumentar el acceso a alimentos frescos, sanos y asequibles •Asociarse con otros organismos para financiar, diseñar y mantener parques, senderos y espacios abiertos de alta calidad •Proporcionar oportunidades para caminar, montar en bicicleta y realizar otras actividades físicas •Aspectos destacados de la política de vecindarios dinámicos •Promover actos culturales, comunitarios y de embellecimiento •Incorporar el arte público y el embellecimiento a las nuevas urbanizaciones •Promover la construcción de viviendas y el relleno para revitalizar las zonas urbanas existentes 9 Desarrollo económico •Aspectos destacados de la política para el frente marítimo septentrional •Reforzar la viabilidad económica del frente marítimo septentrional •Promover la expansión de la fabricación y la tecnología limpia •Apoyar el desarrollo de zonas de producción prioritarias en BayPoint y en la zona de North Concord/Pacheco/Vine Hill •Aspectos destacados de la política sobre trabajadores y empresas locales •Apoyar programas de formación e instituciones que desarrollen y mejoren las capacidades de la mano de obra local •Adoptar una estrategia de desarrollo económico 10 Sostenibilidad •Aspectos destacados de la política de uso del suelo y transporte sostenible •Centrarse en el desarrollo de relleno, dirigir las viviendas y los puestos de trabajo a proximidad, y fomentar el desarrollo de alta densidad y uso mixto cerca del transporte público con oportunidades para caminar y montar en bicicleta •Aumentar el acceso a vehículos de emisiones cero y reducir la dependencia de los vehículos personales •Aspectos destacados de la política de espacios naturales y terrenos de labor •Preservar los espacios abiertos y los terrenos agrícolas •Dar prioridad a la salud y viabilidad de los terrenos naturales y de trabajo •Mantener y apoyar la Norma de Preservación del Terreno 65/35 y la Línea Límite Urbana 11 Borrador del Plan de Acción Climática 12 Actualización del Plan de Acción Climática (CAP) •¿Qué es el CAP? •Establece objetivos de reducción de emisiones de gases de efecto invernadero (GHG) para el condado •Establece un plan para alcanzar esos objetivos •Aplica la política climática del Plan General. 13 ¿Qué es el CAP? •Plan estratégico del condado para afrontar la crisis climática •Reducir las emisiones de GHG hasta 2045 y más allá •Mejorar la resistencia y la adaptación al cambio climático •Promover la equidad en cuestiones climáticas •Demostrar el liderazgo del condado •Implementar algunos aspectos del Plan General 14 Condado de Contra Costa Actualización del Plan de Acción Climática de 2024 Borrador de revisión pública Objetivos del CAP 15 Un entorno construido limpio y eficiente Sin residuos en Contra Costa Reducir el consumo de agua y aumentar la resistencia a la sequía Red de transporte limpio Comunidades e infraestructuras naturales y resilientes Equidad climática Liderazgo Implementación Plan de Acción Climática Estrategias Comunidad •Edificios •Todos los edificios son eléctricos •Energía limpia •Infraestructuras resistentes (al calor, la sequía, las inundaciones y los incendios) •Bicicletas/caminar/transporte •Vehículos eléctricos •Alimentos frescos cultivados localmente Operaciones del condado •Flota •Edificios •Energía, agua, reciclado, compostaje •Infraestructura •Calles •Señales de tráfico •Infraestructura verde •Compras •Inversiones Septiembre de 2023 16 ATTACHMENT B DRAFT 2045 GENERAL PLAN FISCAL IMPACT ANALYSIS bae urban economics San Francisco Sacramento Los Angeles Washington DC Atlanta New York City www.bae1.com Memorandum To: Tanya Sundberg, Principal, PlaceWorks From: Matt Kowta, Principal Date: August 21, 2024 Re: Contra Costa County General Plan Update Fiscal Impact Analysis Introduction To understand the fiscal implications of the proposed Contra Costa County General Plan Update (GPU), Contra Costa County engaged BAE Urban Economics as a subconsultant to PlaceWorks to conduct a fiscal impact analysis that projects the increased General Fund expenditures and revenues that could be expected as a result of the net increase in development that is anticipated under the proposed GPU. This memorandum summarizes the methodology, key assumptions, and results of the fiscal impact analysis, including the expected County General Fund revenues and expenditures to provide ongoing services to the new residents and employees, if land in the unincorporated area is developed as projected under the proposed GPU. Net New Development Potential To serve as the starting point for the fiscal impact analysis, PlaceWorks provided BAE with the net new development (i.e., new residential units and new non-residential square footage minus existing residential units or non-residential square footage that would be removed) that is anticipated by 2045 under the proposed GPU within the unincorporated county. This includes the number of new single-family and multifamily residential units, the new square footage of commercial and industrial space, and the estimated number of new employees in approximately 50 different sub-areas spread across the county. BAE grouped the sub-areas into 11 different sub-markets, as summarized in Table 1 on the following page. BAE applied a series of assumptions to produce estimates of the number of new residents associated with the potential increase in residential units. To produce an estimate of the number of persons per housing unit within each sub-market, BAE identified the average persons per housing unit in the primary cities within each sub-market as reported by the State Department of Finance, and assumed that demographics of households in new single-family and multifamily units built in the unincorporated parts of each sub-market would be similar, but not necessarily identical, to the demographics of the nearby cities. Then within each of the sub-markets, BAE adjusted the overall average persons per housing unit to be somewhat higher than the overall average for single-family units, and somewhat lower than the overall average for multifamily units, to account for the fact that multifamily housing units and the households residing in them are typically smaller than the average for all housing units and single-family units and the households that occupy them are typically larger than the overall average. Attachment A includes the key assumptions that were utilized in this analysis. As shown in the attachment, BAE assumes that single-family homes will generally have between 2.5 and 3.0 persons per unit, on average, and multifamily homes will have between 1.75 and 2.25 persons per unit, on average. The estimates of new employees that were included in the new development data that PlaceWorks provided to BAE were based on estimates of the quantity of new non-residential development and a set of assumptions about employment density by building type (i.e., square feet of building space per employee). As shown in Table 1, a total of just under 7,100 new single-family housing units, just over 21,500 new multifamily housing units, and approximately 1.2 million square feet of new commercial space and 5.0 million square feet of new industrial space are expected by 2045. This amount of new development would accommodate just under 53,000 new residents and approximately 5,400 new employees. From the estimates of anticipated new residents and new employees, BAE calculated a metric called “service population.” Service population is a metric widely used by fiscal impact analysis practitioners to characterize the public service demand that is created by a mixture of residential and non-residential development. Service population is calculated as the number of residents plus one-half of the number of employees. The weighting of employees at 50 percent of the level of residents is meant to account for the reduced public service demand associated with employees, who may only be present in the community for the work day, as opposed to residents who spend much more of their time within the community. As shown in Table 1, these calculations yield an estimated service population increase of just under 57,000. Table 1: Projected Net New Development by 2045 for Unincorporated County Note: Methodology for development projections is described in Chapter 3 of the Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan and Climate Action Plan Draft EIR, which was published in February 2024 (State Clearinghouse #2023090467). Residential development projections were reduced slightly for this analysis to reflect adjustments to the Mixed-Use Community-Specific designation. Sources: PlaceWorks, 2024; California State Department of Finance, 2024; BAE, 2024. Total Increase Single-Family Multifamily Commercial Industrial Service Sub-Market Units Residents Units Residents Sq. Ft.Jobs Sq. Ft.Jobs Residents Jobs Population Antioch/Brentwood/Pittsburg 3,888 12,635 4,299 10,748 261,300 686 1,881,616 2,309 23383 2,994 24,880 Concord 65 195 0 0 0 0 0 0 195 0 195 Danville/Alamo 990 2,970 377 848 4,125 10 441,000 541 3818 552 4,094 El Cerrito/Kensington 56 139 623 1,091 4,912 12 0 0 1230 12 1,236 Lafayette/Moraga/Orinda 5 16 0 0 0 0 0 0 16 0 16 Martinez/Pacheco 268 672 2,052 3,590 136,012 345 581,090 713 4262 1,058 4,791 Pinole/Hercules/El Sobrante 109 327 1,089 2,450 124,650 316 133,220 163 2777 480 3,017 Pleasant Hill 235 587 0 0 0 0 0 0 587 0 587 Richmond/San Pablo 876 2,628 4,567 10,276 332,713 844 1,966,387 2,413 12904 3,257 14,533 San Ramon/Bishop 54 163 0 0 0 0 0 0 163 0 163 Walnut Creek 524 1,310 1,336 2,339 378,874 1,042 0 0 3649 1,042 4,170 Total 7,071 21,642 14,343 31,342 1,242,587 3,257 5,003,313 6,139 52,984 9,396 57,682 Methodology BAE developed a fiscal model to assess the expected General Fund revenues and expenditures associated with the new development that could be expected to occur by 2045 under the proposed GPU based on the estimated increase in new development as compared to the currently existing development in unincorporated Contra Costa County. To estimate the future Contra Costa County General Fund expenditures associated with the GPU land use changes, BAE utilized current average annual expenditures per resident or per service population to project future increases based on the projected new development. Table 2 shows current net General Fund expenditures (i.e., projected increase in General Fund revenues minus projected increase in General Fund expenditures) for County departments based on the recommended County budget for the 2024/2025 fiscal year and the relevant service units for the 2024/2025 fiscal year. As noted in the table, for County services that are provided to both the residential and non-residential sectors, the relevant service unit is “service population.” For services that are provided primarily to residents, the relevant service unit is resident population. As noted in the table, for some services, the resident population is the entire county (incorporated as well as unincorporated); for some it is the unincorporated area only; and for some it is the entire county minus certain incorporated areas. To estimate the projected revenues, BAE assessed the current market values for the land uses proposed in the GPU, providing an estimate of property-related tax revenue, as well as the average per-capita sales tax generation. Table 4 shows projected property taxes and Table 5 shows projected sales taxes. The remaining revenue items1 -- shown in Table 6 -- are assumed to increase based on the County’s existing average annual per-service population revenue. 1 Remaining revenue items include Taxes Other Than Current Property Taxes (and property tax in -lieu of vehicle license fees), License/Permit/Franchises, Fines/Forfeitures/Penalties, Use Of Money & Property, Intergovernmental Revenue, Charges For Services, and Miscellaneous Revenue. Table 2: Existing General Fund Expenditures Notes: (a) Considers service population, defined as residents plus one-half of employees. (b) Considers residents only. Population Contra Costa County 1,145,626 Contra Costa County, Unincorporated Area Only 174,289 City of Richmond 112,735 City of Antioch 115,632 Jobs Contra Costa County 372,700 Contra Costa County, Unincorporated Area Only (est.) 34,351 (c) Total Public Works expenditures funded by General Purpose Revenues $40,999,999 Facilities Maintenance (part of above) $33,060,000 Countywide Facilities Maintenance (part of above) $31,860,873 Unincorporated Area Facilities Maintenance (part of above) $1,199,127 Non-Facilities Maintenance in Unincorporated Areas $7,939,999 - Notes continued next page - 24/25 24/25 24/25 Net G.F.G.F.$/ Department Service Basis Service Units Expend.Svc. Units. General Government Agriculture-Weights/Measures Countywide Svc. Pop.1,332,976 (a)$3,818,889 $2.86 Assessor Countywide Svc. Pop.1,332,976 (a)$22,245,815 $16.69 Auditor-Controller Countywide Svc. Pop.1,332,976 (a)$4,376,436 $3.28 Board of Supervisors Countywide Svc. Pop.1,332,976 (a)$7,943,812 $5.96 Clerk-Recorder Elections Countywide Svc. Pop.1,332,976 (a)$10,315,164 $7.74 Conservation & Development Countywide Svc. Pop.1,332,976 (a)$16,410,650 $12.31 County Counsel Countywide Svc. Pop.1,332,976 (a)$3,007,154 $2.26 County Administrator Countywide Svc. Pop.1,332,976 (a)$13,934,691 $10.45 Department of Information Technology Countywide Svc. Pop.1,332,976 (a)$5,210,000 $3.91 General County Services Countywide Svc. Pop.1,332,976 (a)$2,268,800 $1.70 Human Resources Countywide Svc. Pop.1,332,976 (a)$2,982,851 $2.24 Library Countywide Residents, ex. Richmond 1,033,891 (b)$215,040 $0.21 Public Works - Countywide Functions (c)Countywide Svc. Pop.1,332,976 (a)$31,860,873 $23.90 Public Works - Unincorp. Area Functions (c)Unincorpated Area Svc. Pop.191,465 (a)$9,139,126 $47.73 Office of Racial Equity and Social Justice Countywide Svc. Pop.1,332,976 (a)$1,290,240 $0.97 Risk Management Countywide Svc. Pop.1,332,976 (a)$409,634 $0.31 Treasurer-Tax Collector Countywide Svc. Pop.1,332,976 (a)$4,313,711 $3.24 Health and Human Services Employment and Human Services Countywide Residents 1,146,626 (b)$43,604,055 $38.03 Health Services Countywide Residents 1,146,626 (b)$247,731,113 $216.05 Veterans Services Countywide Residents 1,146,626 (b)$1,889,744 $1.65 Law and Justice Animal Services Countywide Residents, ex. Antioch 1,030,994 (b)$5,788,985 $5.61 District Attorney Countywide Svc. Pop.1,332,976 (a)$31,013,065 $23.27 Probation Countywide Svc. Pop.1,332,976 (a)$49,457,000 $37.10 Public Defender Countywide Svc. Pop.1,332,976 (a)$40,240,276 $30.19 Sheriff-Coroner - Countywide Functions (d)Countywide Svc. Pop.1,332,976 (a)$89,014,805 $66.78 Sheriff-Coroner - Unincorp. Area Functions (e)Unincorporated Area Svc. Pop.191,465 (a)$55,842,026 $291.66 Superior Court-Related Functions Countywide Svc. Pop.1,332,976 (a)$13,205,500 $9.91 Justice Programs - Conflict Defense Countywide Svc. Pop.1,332,976 (a)$5,000,000 $3.75 Consolidated Fire District Countywide Svc. Pop.1,332,976 (a)$15,641,600 $11.73 Capital Improvements Countywide Svc. Pop.1,332,976 (a)$25,000,000 $18.76 Contingency Reserves Countywide Svc. Pop.1,332,976 (a)$20,000,000 $15.00 Total General Purpose Revenue Expenditures $783,171,055 (d) Total Sheriff expenditures funded by General Purpose Revenues $144,856,831 (e) Sheriff Patrol and Marine Patrol expenditures funded by GP Revenues $55,842,026 Sources: Contra Costa County 2024-2025 Recommended Budget; Contra Costa County Administrator's Office, 2024; CA Dept. of Finance, 2024; CA Employment Development Department, 2024. Expenditures Table 3 shows the projected General Fund expenditure increases associated with the net new development anticipated through the 2045 General Plan horizon year, as compared to existing expenditure levels. As shown in Table 3, the total projected increase in annual General Fund expenditures is $51.6 million by the 2045 General Plan horizon year. The largest projected expenditure increases are Sheriff-Coroner Unincorporated Area Functions (primarily Sheriff Patrol in unincorporated areas; $16.8 million per year), Health Services ($11.5 million), Sheriff-Coroner Countywide Services ($3.9 million), and Public Works Unincorporated Area Functions ($2.8 million). These cost projections assume that the County’s current Measure X expenditures, which are spread across various departments, will increase linearly from the current expenditure levels, as the service population or resident population increases with new development through 2045. The table utilizes the per capita or per service population costs calculated on Table 2, multiplied by the service population or resident increase, as appropriate for each County department that receives funding from the General Fund. The expenditure projections represent the expected annual General Fund expenditure increases at the General Plan horizon year of 2045, based on the County’s current service cost structure. All figures are provided in 2024 dollars. Table 3: Projected Expenditure Increases Notes: (a) Includes Sheriff Patrol and Sheriff Marine Patrol (b) Projected growth: Projected Increase in Service Population: 57,682 Projected Increase in Resident Population: 52,984 Sources: Contra Costa County, 2024; BAE, 2024. Services Per Capita/Svc. Pop. Cost Service Demand Projected Growth (b)Projected Cost General Government Agriculture-Weights/Measures $2.86 Service Population 57,682 $165,255 Assessor $16.69 Service Population 57,682 $962,645 Auditor-Controller $3.28 Service Population 57,682 $189,382 Board of Supervisors $5.96 Service Population 57,682 $343,753 Clerk-Recorder Elections $7.74 Service Population 57,682 $446,369 Conservation & Development $12.31 Service Population 57,682 $710,140 County Counsel $2.26 Service Population 57,682 $130,129 County Administrator $10.45 Service Population 57,682 $602,997 Department of Information Technology $3.91 Service Population 57,682 $225,453 General County Services $1.70 Service Population 57,682 $98,178 Human Resources $2.24 Service Population 57,682 $129,077 Library $0.21 Residents 52,984 $11,020 Public Works - Countywide Functions (c)$23.90 Service Population 57,682 $1,378,718 Public Works - Unincorp. Area Functions (d)$47.73 Service Population 57,682 $2,753,319 Office of Racial Equity and Social Justice $0.97 Service Population 57,682 $55,833 Risk Management $0.31 Service Population 57,682 $17,726 Treasurer-Tax Collector $3.24 Service Population 57,682 $186,668 Health and Human Services Employment and Human Services $38.03 Residents 52,984 $2,014,883 Health Services $216.05 Residents 52,984 $11,447,312 Veterans Services $1.65 Residents 52,984 $87,322 Law and Justice Animal Services $5.61 Residents 52,984 $297,503 District Attorney $23.27 Service Population 57,682 $1,342,031 Probation $37.10 Service Population 57,682 $2,140,157 Public Defender $30.19 Service Population 57,682 $1,741,321 Sheriff-Coroner - Countywide Functions $66.78 Service Population 57,682 $3,851,946 Sheriff-Coroner - Unincorp. Area Functions (a)$291.66 Service Population 57,682 $16,823,372 Superior Court-Related Functions $9.91 Service Population 57,682 $571,443 Justice Programs - Conflict Defense $3.75 Service Population 57,682 $216,365 Consolidated Fire District $11.73 Service Population 57,682 $676,860 Capital Improvements $18.76 Service Population 57,682 $1,081,827 Contingency Reserves $15.00 Service Population 57,682 $865,462 TOTAL COSTS $51,564,467 Revenue The following section summarizes the projected revenue generation from new development anticipated through the 2045 General Plan horizon, including property-related revenue, sales tax revenue, and other County revenue. As shown on Table 7, the total projected increase in annual General Fund revenues is $56.9 million by the 2045 General Plan horizon year. The revenue estimates represent the expected annual revenue increase from current levels attributable to net new development in the unincorporated areas at the General Plan horizon year of 2045, based on the County’s current revenue structure. All figures are provided in 2024 dollars. Property-Related Revenue By the 2045 GPU horizon year, BAE estimates the new development anticipated under the GPU will have an assessed value of nearly $15.4 billion, based on the assumptions regarding average value per residential unit and average value per non-residential square foot shown in Attachment A. Residential value estimates are based on recent sales of newer residential units in the various Contra Costa County sub-markets, while non-residential values are based on recent sales of new non-residential properties. The total projected assessed value drives the increase in direct property tax revenue to the County. As shown in Table 3, based on the allocation of property tax to the Contra Costa County General Fund within each of the tax rate areas (TRAs) where new development is anticipated, which averages about 17 percent of the one percent ad-valorem property tax paid,2 the County is expected to receive roughly $25.7 million in additional annual property tax from the new development by the 2045 General Plan horizon year. In addition to secured and unsecured property tax, the County is also projected to receive approximately $10 million per year of In-Lieu of Vehicle License Fee (ILVLF) revenue in 2045. The increase in ILVLF is driven by the increase in assessed valuation within the county. . 2 The remainder of the ad valorem property tax is allocated to other tax -receiving entities, such as school districts and other special service districts in combinations that are unique to each tax rate area. Table 4: Projected Property Taxes and Property Tax In-Lieu of Vehicle License Fees Note: (a) ILVLF calculations: 2024/25 ILVF Revenues $174,124,018 2023 Total Assessed Valuation $266,672,154,709 ILVLF as % of Total AV 0.07% General Fund Property Tax Sub-Market New SF Units New MF Units New Comm. Sq. Ft.New Ind. Sq. Ft.Total Valuation Revenue Antioch/Brentwood/Pittsburg 3,888 4,299 261,300 1,881,616 $5,407,271,802 $9,689,356 Concord 65 0 0 0 $73,922,138 $128,640 Danville/Alamo 990 377 4,125 441,000 $2,771,277,347 $4,497,945 El Cerrito/Kensington 56 623 4,912 0 $362,869,528 $355,056 Lafayette/Moraga/Orinda 5 0 0 0 $11,577,521 $17,611 Martinez/Pacheco 268 2,052 136,012 581,090 $1,223,000,198 $2,195,759 Pinole/Hercules/El Sobrante 109 1,089 124,650 133,220 $694,039,616 $1,341,925 Pleasant Hill 235 0 0 0 $346,223,377 $557,813 Richmond/San Pablo 876 4,567 332,713 1,966,387 $2,755,211,057 $4,010,028 San Ramon/Bishop 54 0 0 0 $97,652,157 $169,398 Walnut Creek 524 1,336 378,874 0 $1,635,294,757 $2,731,182 Total 7,071 14,343 1,242,587 5,003,313 $15,378,339,498 $25,694,712 Property Tax In-Lieu of Vehicle License Fee (a)$10,041,312 Sales Tax Revenue As with other California counties, Contra Costa County receives annual Bradley-Burns sales tax revenues based on the quantity of taxable sales transactions within the unincorporated area, equal to one percent of taxable sales. In addition, the County also receives a special voter- approved sales tax allocation that is equal to one-half a percent (one-half cent per $1.00) of taxable sales transactions countywide (including in cities). Table 5 details the projected sales tax increases anticipated by the 2045 General Plan horizon year, based on the anticipated new development in the unincorporated area. Applying the 1.0 percent Bradley-Burns sales tax rate to the unincorporated area sales and the 0.5 percent Measure X sales tax rate to the countywide sales increase, Table 5 projects that the net new General Plan development in the unincorporated area would generate roughly $9.8 million in new annual sales tax revenues for Contra Costa County by 2045 as compared to current revenues. Table 5: Projected Sales Tax Increases Notes: (a) Measure X is a 1/2 cent sales tax on taxable sales countywide. (b) Bradley-Burns 1% Sales Tax is the local share of taxes on sales in the unincorporated area. Sources: CA Dept. of Tax and Fee Administration, 2023; CA Dept. of Finance, 2024; BAE, 2024. Based on average annual per-resident and per-employee taxable sales assumptions, the new development by the 2045 GPU horizon year is projected to generate approximately $460 million of additional retail sales within the unincorporated parts of Contra Costa County yearly. The new unincorporated area development could also be anticipated to generate just over $1 billion in new annual taxable sales countywide by the 2045 horizon year. Other Revenue As shown on Table 6, in 2045, the net new development under the proposed GPU is projected to generate an additional $8.8 million in annual revenue for the County from “other” sources as compared to current levels. This includes taxes other than property taxes and ILVLF; Existing Taxable Sales Taxable Sales Population Per Capita Taxable Sales Contra Costa County Taxable Sales $22,565,635,833 1,146,626 $19,680 Unincorporated Contra Costa County Taxable Sales $1,514,442,794 174,289 $8,689 Projected Sales Tax Increases Population Increase Projected Taxable Sales Projected Local Sales Tax Countywide Measure X Sales Tax (a)52,984 $1,042,726,791 $5,213,634 Unincorporated Area Bradley-Burns 1% Sales Tax (b)52,984 $460,391,861 $4,603,919 Total Sales Tax Revenues $1,503,118,651 $9,817,553 License/Permit/Franchise revenues; Intergovernmental Revenues; Charges for Services; and Miscellaneous Revenues. As shown in Table 6, below, the majority of this revenue is associated with Taxes Other Than Current Property Taxes and ILVLF. Use of Money and Property is a revenue category driven largely by the County’s ability to earn interest on idle fund balances held during the course of a year. Thus, this particular revenue source is very dependent on prevailing interest rates, which had been much lower in years prior to the Federal Reserve raising interest rates in efforts to reduce the post-Pandemic rate of inflation. Recognizing that most economists expect the Federal Reserve to eventually move interest rates lower than their current level, this analysis conservatively assumes that this revenue source will not increase significantly as a result of net new General Plan development by the 2045 General Plan horizon year. Table 6: Projected “Other” Revenues Notes: (a) Considers service population, defined as residents plus one-half of employees. (b) Considering the potential for interest rates to decrease significantly in the future, this analysis conservatively assumes th at revenue increases from the Use of Money and Property category will be negligible. Sources: Contra Costa County 2024-2025 Recommended Budget; CA Dept. of Finance, 2024; CA Employment Development Department, 2024. 24/25 24/25 Projected 23/24 Net G.P.G.P.$/Svc. Pop.New Other Revenues Service Units Revenues Svc. Pop.Growth Revenue Taxes Other Than Current Property Taxes (and ILVLF)1,332,976 (a)$150,142,077 $112.64 57,682 $6,497,111 License/Permit/Franchises 1,332,976 (a)$9,300,000 $6.98 57,682 $402,440 Fines/Forfeits/Penalties 1,332,976 (a)$20,250,000 $15.19 57,682 $876,280 Use Of Money & Property 1,332,976 (a)$60,000,000 $45.01 57,682 $0 (b) Intergovernmental Revenue 1,332,976 (a)$13,500,000 $10.13 57,682 $584,187 Charges For Services 1,332,976 (a)$8,600,000 $6.45 57,682 $372,149 Miscellaneous Revenue 1,332,976 (a)$800,000 $0.60 57,682 $34,618 Total $262,592,077 $8,766,785 Net Fiscal Impact As summarized on Table 7, new development is projected to generate an annual surplus of approximately $2.8 million to the County’s General Fund by the 2045 General Plan horizon year. This result indicates that considering new revenue generation potential and anticipated expenditure increases, attributable to new development under the proposed General Plan Update has the potential to improve the County’s fiscal health, assuming there are no significant changes to the County’s General Fund expenditure and revenue structures in the intervening years. From a modeling sensitivity standpoint, the projected surplus, which equals approximately five percent of the projected expenditure increases, provides a modest buffer against unanticipated revenue decreases or expenditure increases. Table 7: Projected Net Fiscal Impacts Source: BAE, 2024. Projected Revenue Increases Property Taxes $25,694,712 Property Tax In-Lieu of Vehicle License Fees $10,041,312 Sales Tax $9,817,553 Other Revenues $8,766,785 Total Revenue Increases $54,320,361 Projected Expenditure Increases $51,564,467 PROJECTED NET ANNUAL FISCAL SURPLUS/(DEFICIT)$2,755,895 Attachment A: Key Assumptions by Sub-Market Sources: CA State Department of Finance, 2024; CoStar, 2024; BAE, 2024. Persons/Persons/SF Value/MF Value/Commercial Industrial Sub-Market SF Unit MF Unit Unit Unit Value/Sq. Ft.Value/Sq. Ft. Antioch/Brentwood/Pittsburg 3.25 2.50 $900,000 $310,000 $403 $250 Concord 3.00 2.25 $1,140,000 $385,000 $450 $230 Danville/Alamo 3.00 2.25 $2,505,000 $460,000 $500 $260 El Cerrito/Kensington 2.50 1.75 $1,000,000 $490,000 $388 $230 Lafayette/Moraga/Orinda 3.00 2.25 $2,170,000 $660,000 $463 $260 Martinez/Pacheco 2.50 1.75 $965,000 $370,000 $395 $260 Pinole/Hercules/El Sobrante 3.00 2.25 $900,000 $480,000 $358 $215 Pleasant Hill 2.50 1.75 $1,475,000 $280,000 $360 $260 Richmond/San Pablo 3.00 2.25 $800,000 $320,000 $358 $230 San Ramon/Bishop 3.00 2.25 $1,795,000 $380,000 $500 $250 Walnut Creek 2.50 1.75 $1,475,000 $520,000 $440 $260 ATTACHMENT D PUBLIC COMMENTS ON OCTOBER 2023 PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT 2045 GENERAL PLAN AND PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN 2024 UPDATE (IN CHRONOLOGICAL ORDER) ATTACHMENT D: PUBLIC COMMENTS ON OCTOBER 2023 PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT 2045 GENERAL PLAN AND PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN 2024 UPDATE (IN CHRONOLOGICAL ORDER) From:DCSD General Manager To:Will Nelson Cc:Cameron Collins Subject:Diablo Profile Changes Date:Tuesday, November 21, 2023 4:51:11 PM Hi Will, I have been working with the members of the Diablo Historical Preservation Committee on the Diablo Profile and we would like the first two sentences of the second paragraph of page 1 to read as follows: Diablo began as the Oakwood Park Stock Farm, a ranch owned by California’s “Big Four” (Leland Stanford, Charles Crocker, Matt Hopkins, and Colis P. Huntington, with a fifth partner, David Colton, who built the Central Pacific Railroad) in the late 1800s. Robert Noble Burgess purchased the property in 1912 from David Colton and transformed the Farm into a family-oriented, parklike community of summer homes….. Please confirm receipt of the email and please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions. Thank you for making the changes and Happy Thanksgiving! Kathy Kathy Torru DCSD General Manager www.diablocsd.org generalmanager@diablocsd.org 925 683-4956 This message is being sent on a public e-mail system and may be subject to disclosure under the California Public Records Act. 1 From:Email Request Sent:Monday, December 4, 2023 8:23 AM To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg Subject:FW: Include Buchanan's use of leaded fuel in the Draft Plan From: Dick Offerman <dickofferman@yahoo.com> Sent: Monday, December 4, 2023 8:21:47 AM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Subject: Include Buchanan's use of leaded fuel in the Draft Plan Please include this email in the Draft Plan Feedback. Hello, My name is Dick Offerman and I have lived in Pleasant Hill since 1984. Given this General Plan’s stated intention to address community health, I ask the Board to address the health crisis elephant in our skies. Propeller driven airplanes flying over our houses and schools spray us with toxic lead dust exhaust, exposing our children to possible irreversible health damage. After many years of study, on Oct. 18, 2023 the EPA finally announced that exposure to this lead aviation exhaust dust from these airplanes can cause irreversible and life-long health effects in children! These types of planes use a controversial leaded aviation fuel, “Avgas” or 100LL. https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-determines-lead-emissions-aircraft-engines-cause-or- contribute-air-pollution Nearby Santa Clara County has led the nation in the testing of the blood of children within 1.5 miles of it’s Reid-Hillview Airport. Sadly, they found lead levels in children’s blood worse than the 2014 Flint, Michigan “lead in the drinking water” crisis. They have stopped the sale of leaded AVGAS at two of their airports and now offer an unleaded Avgas solution. We believe that Mount Diablo Unified School District has over 11,000 students in schools near or within that 1.5 mile range of Buchanan. We ask that the County and State Health Department to conduct blood testing of all children living near or attending schools within that zone, given Santa Clara County’s findings. Contra Costa County residents also deserve to know. Lead poisoning can lead to lifelong learning, behavioral, reproductive, heart, and other health problems. We need Contra Costa County, who owns Buchanan Field, to stop selling or taking any deliveries of this toxic leaded aviation fuel at Concord’s Buchanan Field Airport. Please use this General Plan effort to truly protect our children and community. No amount of lead in a child’s blood is good. Stop leaded Avgas sales at Buchanan. Switch to unleaded Avgas. You don't often get email from dickofferman@yahoo.com. Learn why this is important 2 Regards, Dick Offerman From:Email Request To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: CCC GP Date:Thursday, December 14, 2023 1:07:00 PM Attachments:image001.png image002.png image003.png From: Kerry Guerin <kerry@cbecal.org> Sent: Thursday, December 14, 2023 1:06:47 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Cc: Alfredo Angulo <Alfredo@cbecal.org> Subject: CCC GP You don't often get email from kerry@cbecal.org. Learn why this is important Hi General Plan team, My name is Kerry Guerin and I’m an attorney with Communities for a Better Environment here in Richmond; my colleague Alfredo Angulo (they/them) is also copied from our community organizing team. As you may know, CBE is a resident member-driven organization that combines scientific research and legal work, guided by community organizing, that advances our members’ vision for environmental justice in their communities. It’s nice to e-meet you! I’m getting up to speed on the General Plan updates, and I have a few questions I’m hoping you can help with. 1. The public comment period for both the General Plan and the CAP ends on January 31, 2024, correct? 2. Where can we find the Draft Environmental Impact Report for the General Plan and CAP? 3. When does the public comment period end for the DEIR? 4. Is there a date, time and location yet for the District 1 community open house? I see there are meetings being scheduled in every district, but I can only see the info for Districts 2 and 3 so far. 5. Are there any working groups or advisory groups that we could possibly join related to this ongoing work? Thanks so much for all your help in advance. Alfredo and I are looking forward to getting more involved with your team and work in the months ahead! Kerry Kerry Guerin|(they/she) Just Transition FellowLegal TeamCommunities for a Better Environment andCBE Action, a project of Tides AdvocacyPhone: 510-825-0032340 Marina Way, Richmond CA 94801 www.cbecal.org 1 From:Email Request Sent:Tuesday, December 19, 2023 1:09 PM To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: Comments on the contra costa county 2045 General Plan From: dsonder@mindspring.com <dsonder@mindspring.com> Sent: Tuesday, December 19, 2023 1:08:26 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Cc: kitsonder@gmail.com <kitsonder@gmail.com>; dsonder@mindspring.com <dsonder@mindspring.com> Subject: Comments on the contra costa county 2045 General Plan I will start by congratulating those that put what is obviously a great deal of effort into the plan. With such a large portion of the geography being in the unincorporated portion of the county as well as the unincorporated area for planning purposes having the largest population I would suggest the following modifications: 1.That a profile be created for unincorporated properties as a Community for feedback as was done with 22 other profiles. 2.That a committee be created that focuses on the issues and challenges with owning property in Unincorporated county. 3.That in the noise section it has a category for Urban properties or homeowners, there should be one for those living in rural unincorporated county 4.The noise section should not only have new policies for new projects and development these should apply to existing lands. Specifically for: a.The Marsh Creek Shooting range which for close neighbors is extremely hazardous as far as noise impact b.Event centers or locations that have concerts next to private home owners Best Regards, David Sondergeld Strategic Technology Executive, Board Advisor 415-602-7847 You don't often get email from dsonder@mindspring.com. Learn why this is important From:Tanya Sundberg To:Lauren Willey Subject:FW: Follow up about our property in Alamo Date:Thursday, April 18, 2024 5:45:53 PM Attachments:image001.jpg image002.png TANYA SUNDBERG Principal she/her 510.848.3815 ext. 3390 | cell: 510.866.8336 From: Will Nelson <Will.Nelson@dcd.cccounty.us> Sent: Thursday, April 18, 2024 10:56 AM To: Tanya Sundberg <tsundberg@placeworks.com> Subject: FW: Follow up about our property in Alamo GP comment William R. Nelson Principal Planner Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development 30 Muir Road, Martinez, CA 94553 Phone (925) 655-2898 Web www.contracosta.ca.gov We’re planning for the future of Contra Costa County. Learn more and get involved at envisioncontracosta2040.org. This message was sent from a public e-mail system and may be subject to disclosure under the California Public Records Act. From: Tanvir Sattar <tanvir@thesattars.com> Sent: Thursday, December 21, 2023 9:37 PM To: Sophia Sattar <sophiaartist3@gmail.com>; Will Nelson <Will.Nelson@dcd.cccounty.us> Subject: Follow up about our property in Alamo Mr Will Nelson, It was such a please to meet you last Thursday at the open house organized by the county in Alamo. I met you along work my wife Sophia Sattar as our adjoining property 1261 laverock lane Alamo and the property just west of it have been suggested/requested by their owners to be converted to medium density home. This has repercussions on our neighborhood and especially our property, since part of our property 1251 Laverock Ln, Alamo, CA 94507 are surrounded by these 2 above mentioned properties on 3 sides. This news about our neighbors requesting their property to be rezoned as medium density homes came as a shock news to us. We are extremely concerned about our privacy loss that could happen if multiple homes are constructed on our adjoining property. If push comes to shove and the adjoining properties are moving forward with the process transitioning to medium density homes and we because of the fear of loosing our privacy, if we request to you/County for our property to be rezoned to medium density housing, how do I have control over who buys my property and how the selling price point decided. Once our property is rezoned for medium density how long do I have to sell the property. Can I sell it separately from our adjoining properties or do we need to sell it together with our adjoining properties. Thank you Tanvir Sattar, MD Sophia A Sattar From: Soheila Bana <soheilabana@gmail.com> Sent: Tuesday, January 2, 2024 11:41 PM To: Will Nelson <Will.Nelson@dcd.cccounty.us> Cc: Tom Lang <tlangesmac.cc@gmail.com> Subject: Re: Question about 2045 General Plan Will, One quick question: what does the asterisk at the end of some sentences refer to? I could not find anything that defines it. Thank you, Soheila Bana Chair, West Contra Costa Fire Safe Council (510) 779-7280 WCCFireSafe.org On Tue, Jan 2, 2024 at 11:18 PM Soheila Bana <soheilabana@gmail.com> wrote: Hello Will, Thank you for the great general plan: Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan https://envisioncontracosta2040.org/documents/ Here are some Qs about Chapter 9: Health and Safety Element. I am still studying it but in a way it is difficult to study it because the maps do not show cities. For example, FIGURE HS-10 FIRE HAZARD SEVERITY ZONES does not provide a good image of the fire hazard severity in our area because it is missing a lot of information about the surrounding city areas. Would it be possible to include all areas, but perhaps with a different marking/color? Like FIGURE HS-20 EVACUATION ROUTES shows all cities and unincorporated areas, as it should. Moreover, what are the implications of the policies defined here? For example, there is an area in El Sobrante with a single access road, and it is within the Very High Fire Hazard Severity zone. Does it underscore urgency or attention of the officials to provide evacuation routes for them? I have more questions for you and hope we can discuss them over Zoom. I hope to hear from you soon. Warm regards, Soheila Bana Chair, West Contra Costa Fire Safe Council (510) 779-7280 WCCFireSafe.org 1 From:Email Request Sent:Monday, January 8, 2024 1:24 PM To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: Contra Costa Drilling Policy From: Alvaro Ramos <ramosalvaro131313@gmail.com> Sent: Monday, January 8, 2024 1:24:12 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Subject: Contra Costa Drilling Policy Dear Contra Costa County, I am contacting you about recommendations on the new drilling policy. 1. I would like to see a moratorium in place to prevent any more permit approval while the new ordinance is developed. Communities adjacent to Contra Costa oil fields must be fully protected while new policy is developed. 2. The current research shows that a 3,200-foot setback from drilling sites is actually on the lower end of the range of distances that could reduce the harmful health and quality of life impacts from toxic emissions and exposures. A 2021 Stanford study found negative health impacts within a 2.5 mile radius from oil and gas facilities. The state investigatory panel that declared 3,200′ setbacks, the minimum protective distance, also found that the most health-protective approach is no drilling at all. 3. Please add a requirement for regular, periodic monitoring of existing oil and gas infrastructure by County Hazardous Materials staff of methane and other dangerous emissions. Sincerely, Alvaro Ramos You don't often get email from ramosalvaro131313@gmail.com. Learn why this is important 1 From:Email Request Sent:Monday, January 8, 2024 10:11 AM To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: No more drilling From: Jennifer Russell <jenrae54@icloud.com> Sent: Monday, January 8, 2024 10:10:39 AM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Subject: No more drilling 1. Please put a moratorium in place to prevent any more permit approval while the new ordinance is developed. 2. Current research (from Stanford) shows that a 3,200-foot setback from drilling sites is on the lower end of the range of distances that could reduce the harmful health and quality of life impacts from toxic emissions and exposures. 3. Add a requirement for regular, periodic monitoring of existing oil and gas infrastructure by County Hazardous Materials staff of methane and other dangerous emissions. Thank you for considering these 3 requests. Jennifer Russell, ccc resident You don't often get email from jenrae54@icloud.com. Learn why this is important From:Email Request To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: Climate Action Plan - Chapter 7 Date:Monday, January 8, 2024 1:29:47 PM From: dfgassman@aol.com <dfgassman@aol.com> Sent: Monday, January 8, 2024 1:29:39 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Subject: Climate Action Plan - Chapter 7 You don't often get email from dfgassman@aol.com. Learn why this is important I would like to see a moratorium on any more permit approval during the time that you are doing the “feasibility study” & developing a new land use ordinance to amend the County Code. This is in order to prohibit development of new oil and gas wells. Communities adjacent to oil fields must be fully protected while the new policy is being developed. Also I am informed that a 3,200-foot setback from drilling sites is actually on the lower end of the range of distances that could reduce the harmful health and quality of life impacts from toxic emissions and exposures. Thank you very much. From:Email Request To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: Comment on New Contra Costa Drilling Policy Date:Monday, January 8, 2024 2:28:17 PM ________________________________________ From: Leanne Grossman <leanne@portfolio-of-passions.com> Sent: Monday, January 8, 2024 2:27:56 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request Subject: Comment on New Contra Costa Drilling Policy [You don't often get email from leanne@portfolio-of-passions.com. Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ] To Whom It May Concern: In looking at Contra Costa’s new draft of the Climate Action Plan, I am encouraged by several elements. But I think it’s important to ensure that no new oil and gas facilities are put on line until the feasibility study is completed. The people that live in the area of proposed new drilling should be protected up to and through the developent of the new ordinance. Also, It would be vital to adjacent communities to make the setback between them and oil facilities a minimum of 2.5 miles, which is safer than 3200’ but not as safe as no drilling. Finally, all the policies and procedures in the world won’t be effective unless monitoring is scheduled, staffed and implemented on all exisitng facilities. Sincerely, Leanne Grossman Naturalist Huchiun territory From:Tanya Sundberg To:Lauren Willey Subject:FW: The General Plan - HLC - Landmark maps and historic districts. Date:Thursday, April 18, 2024 5:46:51 PM Attachments:image001.jpg image002.png Chapter_7_CONS-Element_History_Element_01082024.pdf Chapter_8_Public-Facilities-and-Services-Element-1_01082024.pdf TANYA SUNDBERG Principal she/her 510.848.3815 ext. 3390 | cell: 510.866.8336 From: Will Nelson <Will.Nelson@dcd.cccounty.us> Sent: Thursday, April 18, 2024 11:05 AM To: Tanya Sundberg <tsundberg@placeworks.com> Subject: FW: The General Plan - HLC - Landmark maps and historic districts. GP comment William R. Nelson Principal Planner Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development 30 Muir Road, Martinez, CA 94553 Phone (925) 655-2898 Web www.contracosta.ca.gov We’re planning for the future of Contra Costa County. Learn more and get involved at envisioncontracosta2040.org. This message was sent from a public e-mail system and may be subject to disclosure under the California Public Records Act. From: Carol Jensen <cajensen@pacbell.net> Sent: Monday, January 8, 2024 9:50 AM To: Will Nelson <Will.Nelson@dcd.cccounty.us> Cc: Dominique Vogelpohl <Dominique.Vogelpohl@dcd.cccounty.us> Subject: The General Plan - HLC - Landmark maps and historic districts. Dear Will, Happy New Year! I have been wading through the Draft Envision 2045 General Plan Document segment by segment. Yes, I am trying to pay close attention particularly since the Knightsen Historic District meeting is this Wednesday evening. I keep looking for the map of Contra Costa County indicating all the city limits and providing the location of all the Historic Landmarks on the Historic Landmarks list. You recall our Committee’s input into this process over 2-years ago now. I anticipated seeing it either in Chapter_8_Public-Facilities-and- Services-Element-1.pdf or more likely in Chapter_7_CONS-Element.pdf but it is not there. Am I missing it? In what chapter can it be found or your staff just has not created it? Coincidentally, I see only one historic photograph, the John Marsh House, in the Draft for illustration purposes even though lots of historic monument images are available from the Contra Costa County Historical Society just for the asking. Looking forward to seeing you and the Knightsen meeting this week. V/R Carol A. Jensen Chair Contra Costa County Historic Landmarks Committee Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -1 7 CONSERVATION, OPEN SPACE, AND WORKING LANDS ELEMENT Contra Costa County encompasses a large geographic area containing diverse species, habitats, open spaces, working lands, and natural and cultural resources. This Element promotes conservation, preservation, and enhancement of these critical assets. It is organized around the following nine sections: •The Open Space Framework section includes policy guidance to conserve open space throughout the county to protect ecological resources, provide recreation opportunities, and improve resilience to climate change-related impacts. •The Agricultural Resources and Working Lands section includes policy guidance to protect agricultural lands from conversion to urban uses and support a thriving agricultural economy. •The Ecological Resources and Natural Systems section includes policy guidance to preserve and enhance important ecological resources, including creeks, wetlands, riparian areas, and upland habitat. •The Water Resources section includes policy guidance to sustainably manage surface water and groundwater resources, and protect and enhance the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta and shoreline areas. •The Historic and Cultural Resources section includes policy guidance to support identification and preservation of archaeological, historic, and tribal resources in the county, and underscores a commitment to consult and collaborate with local tribes throughout the planning process. •The Scenic Resources section includes policy guidance to protect the abundant scenic resources in the county, including scenic routes, scenic ridges, and other natural features with scenic value. •The Mineral Resources section includes policy guidance to support mineral extraction operations, which are an important part of the regional economy, while avoiding land use conflicts and negative environmental impacts. •The Energy Resources section includes policy guidance to conserve energy and support a transition to zero-carbon energy sources, such as wind and solar. •The Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element Performance Measures describe how the County will track its progress in achieving some of the major objectives expressed in this Element. This General Plan highlights policies and actions that address four major themes that serve as a framework for the Plan. For the reader’s ease, policies and actions related to these themes are identified throughout the General Plan using the following icons. The policies and actions related to each theme are also compiled in Appendix A. See Chapter 1 for more information about each theme. 7 -2 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element Community Health Environmental Justice Economic Development Sustainability OPEN SPACE FRAMEWORK Contra Costa County is a unique place where the greater San Francisco Bay Area, Delta, and Central Valley meet. Well over a third of the county’s unincorporated area is designated for resource conservation, open space, and parks and recreation uses. EBRPD manages numerous recreational open spaces, including Briones Regional Park. Major open space landowners in Contra Costa County include: • East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD), which owns and manages over 65,000 acres of parkland in the county. • East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD), which owns and manages almost 27,000 acres of watershed land in the areas around San Pablo, Briones, and San Leandro Reservoirs. • Contra Costa Water District (CCWD), which owns and manages approximately 20,000 acres of watershed land surrounding Los Vaqueros Reservoir. Among the State agencies owning land in Contra Costa County, the California Department of Parks and Recreation (CDPR) owns the most. The 20,000-acre Mount Diablo State Park, surrounding the iconic 3,849-foot peak of Mount Diablo, is the most well-known State park in the county. In addition, land trusts like Save Mount Diablo, John Muir Land Trust, and Agricultural-Natural Resources Trust work in tandem with the local community to conserve open space. These open spaces are diverse in size and character, ranging from the wetlands and marshes at the gateway to the Delta, to the rugged and wooded 2,800-acre Wildcat Canyon Regional Park, nestled in the Berkeley Hills. Each open space area is defined by a combination of resources, habitats, and agency jurisdiction that require different approaches to preservation, rewilding, and interagency coordination. These open spaces comprise an integrated natural network supporting the county’s livability and resiliency to climate change, and are important recreational and scenic resources highly valued by the community. The County therefore partners with other agencies, such as those discussed above and the Contra Costa Resource Conservation District (RCD), and non-profit organizations to ensure that these resources are protected. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -3 Delta waterways are an important open space feature in East County. Goal COS-1 Policies COS-P1.1 Support efforts by public agencies and nonprofit organizations to acquire and permanently protect open space areas containing important ecological or scenic resources and areas that connect protected lands to form a cohesive system of open space. Plan infrastructure to avoid interfering with such acquisitions whenever possible. COS-P1.2 Pursue opportunities for permanent open space dedication for habitat, scenic, or passive recreation benefits as part of future development approvals and major capital improvement projects. COS-P1.3 Discourage conversion of land designated Resource Conservation or Parks and Recreation to urban uses. If such conversion occurs, require mitigation through permanent protection of other open space or park lands for habitat, scenic, or recreation benefits at a ratio to be determined based on the biological, scenic, or recreational value of the land, but not less than 3:1.* COS-P1.4 Require new projects adjacent to protected open space areas, such as EBRPD lands, to establish buffers on their properties as necessary to minimize conflicts and protect the open space. If conflicts arise between protected open spaces and other uses, prioritize maintaining the viability of the open space functions.* Actions COS-A1.1 Convene an annual staff-level meeting with involved agencies (e.g., East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy, EBRPD), land trusts, and conservation groups to review current and planned efforts to protect and maintain open space. Goal COS-1 Preserved open space for environmental protection, resource management and production, recreation, scenic value, and climate resilience and adaptation. 7 -4 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element See the Land Use Element for additional policies and actions related to the Urban Limit Line and open space uses. AGRICULTURAL RESOURCES AND WORKING LANDS Agricultural Resource Areas There are approximately 254,500 acres of agricultural land mapped by the State in Contra Costa County, most of it in the unincorporated area. The California Department of Conservation’s Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program (FMMP) maps land by agricultural production potential using the following categories: • Prime Farmland has the best combination of physical and chemical features able to sustain long-term agricultural production. Prime Farmland has the soil quality, growing season, and moisture supply needed to produce sustained high yields. • Farmland of Statewide Importance is similar to Prime Farmland, but with minor shortcomings, such as steeper slopes or less ability to store soil moisture. • Unique Farmland consists of lesser-quality soils used for producing the state’s leading agricultural crops. This land is usually irrigated but may include non-irrigated orchards or vineyards, as found in some climatic zones in California. • Farmland of Local Importance consists of dryland grains and irrigated pastures not meeting the definitions of Prime Farmland, Farmland of Statewide Importance, or Unique Farmland. • Grazing Land is land on which the existing vegetation is suited to the grazing of livestock. These categories are used to determine impacts to agricultural land under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Figure COS-1 shows agricultural land in the unincorporated county as mapped by the FMMP. In addition to the FMMP, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) maps prime productive agricultural soils, which are classified as Class I and 2 soils and considered the very best soils for farming. As shown in Figure COS-2, these soils are primarily in East County. Agricultural land and farmworker labor yield valuable crops in Contra Costa County. Agricultural lands provide additional benefits outside the traditional crop and agricultural product yield. These lands can provide natural habitats and support ecological functions, while sequestering carbon to support climate stability. Agricultural lands, when managed appropriately, can also serve as strategic wildfire resilience assets by acting as a buffer between fire-prone landscapes and communities. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -5 FIGURE COS-1 AGRICULTURAL LAND 7 -6 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element FIGURE COS-2 PRIME PRODUCTIVE AGRICULTURAL SOILS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -7 The County realizes the multiple benefits of agriculture and has implemented various programs and regulations to support agricultural land conservation. These include the Agricultural Land Conservation Ordinance, which implements the Williamson Act by allowing property owners to receive a reduced property tax rate in exchange for keeping land in agricultural production, and the Right-to-Farm Ordinance, which protects farms from nuisance complaints. The County also promotes integrated pest management (IPM) strategies to support healthy crops while reducing use of harmful chemicals and associated impacts to the environment. Grazing goats can eliminate weeds and reduce wildfire risks as an IPM strategy. Photo credit: Contra Costa Health Integrated Pest Management Goal COS-2 Policies COS-P2.1 Preserve large, contiguous areas of the county for agricultural production. Prohibit projects that would lead to fragmentation of agricultural areas.* COS-P2.2 Preserve and protect productive agricultural land from conversion to urban uses, especially land designated as Prime Farmland, Farmland of Statewide Importance, or Unique Farmland on the Important Farmland Map prepared by the California Department of Conservation; land containing Class 1 or Class 2 soils; and land designated Agricultural Core.* COS-P2.3 Require a 40-acre-minimum parcel size for subdivisions of prime productive agricultural land (i.e., Class 1 and Class 2 soils). Goal COS-2 A thriving and resilient agricultural sector based on resource conservation and sustainability practices. 7 -8 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element COS-P2.4 Require new projects adjacent to agriculture to establish buffers on their properties as necessary to minimize conflicts and protect agriculture.* COS-P2.5 When resolving conflicts between agricultural uses and urban uses, prioritize maintaining the viability of the agricultural uses. COS-P2.6 Require deed disclosures for new residential development in or adjacent to areas designated or zoned for agricultural use. The disclosures must explain the potential disturbances associated with agricultural operations (e.g., dust, noise, odors, and use of pesticides) and reference the Right-to- Farm Ordinance, which protects agricultural operations from nuisance complaints and unreasonable restrictions.* COS-P2.7 Encourage owners of qualifying agricultural land to participate in the Williamson Act (Agricultural Preserve) Program. COS-P2.8 Support public infrastructure projects and programs that will increase, enhance, and protect agricultural land and its production capabilities. COS-P2.9 Coordinate with Byron-Bethany Irrigation District and East Contra Costa Irrigation District to facilitate water conservation, efficient use of agricultural irrigation water, and implementation of emerging water reuse technologies and practices. COS-P2.10 Support soil conservation and restoration programs. Encourage agricultural landowners to work with agencies such as the USDA’s NRCS and Contra Costa RCD to reduce erosion and soil loss. COS-P2.11 Support efforts to protect, maintain, and improve soil health as a carbon sequestration tool. COS-P2.12 Partner with the agricultural community and University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE) to support regenerative agriculture practices that maintain agricultural viability. COS-P2.13 Encourage IPM practices that reduce the use of agricultural pesticides and minimize pesticide drift, and discourage farming practices that may expose residents, water resources, and the environment to fine particulates and harmful chemicals. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -9 Actions COS-A2.1 Review each update of the California Department of Conservation FMMP data and report to the Board of Supervisors on the quantity of land in the county converted to and from agricultural use. COS-A2.2 Work with the agricultural community, Contra Costa LAFCO, and cities to establish programs and mechanisms to protect agricultural resources, such as preservation agreements, conservation easements, an agricultural soils trust fund, and agricultural mitigation fees. COS-A2.3 Conduct a study of potential Transfer or Purchase of Development Rights (TDR/PDR) programs to address development pressures and preserve agricultural land. The study should determine: (a) Overall feasibility and usefulness toward implementing the County’s agricultural preservation goals. (b) Specific mechanisms that could be used. (c) Geographic areas where these mechanisms could be used. (d) Organizational and administrative requirements. (e) Cost to the County and potential revenue sources. COS-A2.4 Amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to include development standards, and possibly adopt accompanying design guidelines, for urban land uses that interface with agricultural uses, addressing, at minimum: (a) Setbacks on urban properties to provide a buffer for agricultural uses. (b) Location and arrangement of buildings, structures, and uses on urban properties. (c) Lighting, fencing, screening, and appropriate landscaping/vegetation. COS-A2.5 Review the Williamson Act Program to identify potential areas for improvement, such as: (a) Expanding the range of allowable uses to include wildlife habitat areas. (b) Increasing enforcement of non-compliant properties. (c) Ensuring agricultural conservation commitments are adequate to justify inclusion in the Program. (d) Creating a mechanism to ensure rezoning of properties no longer under a Williamson Act contract. See the Land Use Element for additional policies and actions related to agricultural areas and the Health and Safety Element for additional policies related to soil health in support of carbon sequestration. 7 -10 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element Agricultural Economy Contra Costa County’s rich soils, climate, and reliable water supplies have allowed generations of farmers to produce an array of outstanding crops. Contra Costa farmers have grown a wide variety of food for the Bay Area and beyond since the Gold Rush, from vast winter wheat fields in the 1880s to sweet corn, stone fruits, vegetables, olives, wine grapes, and beef today. East County has a long history of agricultural tourism, including U-pick farms going back to the 1970s. The unique combination of world-class growing conditions, proud farming tradition, and proximity to major metropolitan areas makes agriculture one of the county’s most important assets. Peppers are harvested in East Contra Costa County. (Community-submitted photo) As of 2021, Contra Costa County ranked 36th out of California’s 58 counties in total agricultural production, with a $109.4 million value, despite being 51st in land mass. Cattle and calves, sweet corn, tomatoes, grapes, and cherries are the highest-grossing agricultural yields in the county. Future economic opportunities for Contra Costa County agriculture include: • Demand for organic products. • Demand for locally-grown, healthy, and sustainably produced food. • Potential to expand value-added food processing, manufacturing, co- processing, and co-packing across the county. • Expanded agricultural tourism. U-pick farms offer opportunities to experience agriculture firsthand and support the local farming community. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -11 The Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development (DCD) and Department of Agriculture, Weights, and Measures seek to promote and protect the county’s agricultural industry, crops, and rangelands. The future of the county’s agricultural economy is supported by local agriculturalists introducing innovative approaches to farming and seeking creative ways to reintroduce farming culture and recapture earnings. Goal COS-3 Policies COS-P3.1 Support development of public and private infrastructure and services needed to support agriculture. COS-P3.2 Support efforts to promote and market locally grown and value-added agricultural products. COS-P3.3 Enable farmers to showcase farm products grown on-site and elsewhere within the county and offer on-site farm experiences, such as culinary classes, farm-to-table meals, tastings, and special events, while maintaining the character and integrity of the surrounding agricultural landscape. COS-P3.4 Enable farmers and ranchers to provide small-scale, short- term guest accommodations in a manner that is nondisruptive to the rural setting. COS-P3.5 Assist the agricultural community through the County's economic development programs. COS-P3.6 Support the Contra Costa RCD in carrying out its mission to assist farmers and ranchers through programs that conserve natural resources and build a strong farming community. COS-P3.7 Support rural property owners who apply to the Contra Costa LAFCO to detach agricultural land outside the Urban Limit Line (ULL) from special districts that provide urban services. COS-P3.8 Allow farmworker and farm family housing in agricultural areas to meet the needs of locally employed seasonal and permanent farmworkers. Goal COS-3 A thriving, sustainable, and competitive agricultural economy. 7 -12 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element Actions COS-A3.1 Establish a mitigation program to offset conversion of working lands (irrigated and intensively cultivated agricultural lands and rangeland) to nonagricultural uses. The program will define the types of land conversions requiring mitigation, mitigation ratios, acceptable mitigation locations, allowable conservation instruments, and use of in-lieu fees.* COS-A3.2 Partner with the agricultural community and agencies such as the Delta Protection Commission to obtain funding for design, installation, and ongoing maintenance of proper signage promoting agriculture in the county, including wayfinding signage for agricultural tourism (e.g., U-pick, lodging, food service, winery) uses. COS-A3.3 Designate a staff position in DCD to serve as a point of contact to guide members of the agricultural community in understanding the processes at DCD, help DCD staff understand the particular needs of the agricultural community, and coordinate with other agencies, such as the Contra Costa RCD, USDA NRCS, UCCE, County Department of Agriculture, Weights, and Measures, and County Environmental Health Division. COS-A3.4 Work with the agricultural community and UCCE to promote education, training, information-sharing programs, and networking opportunities for farmers, ranchers, and agricultural agencies to increase agriculture’s resilience to climate change hazards. COS-A3.5 Coordinate with the Contra Costa RCD, USDA NRCS, UCCE, Contra Costa Mosquito and Vector Control District, County Department of Agriculture, Weights, and Measures, and County Environmental Health Division to support sustainable and resilient agricultural operations through vegetation and pest management programs, best management practices, technical assistance related to soil health, funding opportunities for efficient irrigation infrastructure, and information about alternative crop types that are drought-, heat-, and severe weather-resistant. See the Land Use Element for additional policies and actions on the Urban Limit Line and agricultural lands. ECOLOGICAL RESOURCES AND NATURAL SYSTEMS Ecological Resource Areas Ecological resource areas contain the county's most important biological resources and cultivate biodiversity. The County partners with a variety of public agencies to manage and protect these and other natural resources. The East Contra Costa Habitat Conservancy oversees implementation of the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservation Plan/Natural Community Conservation Plan (HCP/NCCP), which provides regional conservation and development guidelines to protect natural resources while improving and streamlining the permit process for projects that will impact endangered species and sensitive habitat. The HCP/NCCP allows local agencies to Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -13 authorize endangered species permitting for activities and projects in the region, while providing comprehensive species, wetlands, and ecosystem conservation and contributing to the recovery of endangered species in northern California. The area covered by the HCP/NCCP totals over 174,000 acres and is shown in Figure COS-3. The HCP/NCCP mainly offsets ecological impacts by conserving and restoring lands in a Preserve System. The Preserve System ultimately will encompass between 23,800 and 30,300 acres that will be acquired and managed to benefit the 28 plant and animal species covered by the HCP/NCCP, as well as the natural communities that they, and hundreds of other species, depend on for habitat. During the first 15 years of HCP/NCCP implementation, 42 properties were acquired for the Preserve System, totaling over 14,400 acres. All but one of the acquisitions were completed in partnership with EBRPD. In addition to the HCP/NCCP, the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG)/Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) have identified Priority Conservation Areas (PCAs) throughout the county and region. These areas, for which there is broad consensus on the need for long-term protection given the ecological resources present and urban development pressures, are eligible for conservation grants through the One Bay Area Grant Program. PCAs in Contra Costa County total over 135,000 acres and are shown on Figure COS-4. Goal COS-4 Policies COS-P4.1 Maintain ecologically significant resource areas in their natural state to the greatest extent possible. Limit development in and near these areas to compatible low- intensity uses with adequate provisions to protect sensitive resources, including setbacks around resource areas. Prohibit projects that would lead to fragmentation of ecologically significant resource areas.* COS-P4.2 Support land conservation and restoration consistent with the HCP/NCCP and discourage development in areas where such conservation is planned, as shown on Figure COS-3. Support actions to preserve land and resources within PCAs mapped by ABAG, as shown on Figure COS-4. COS-P4.3 Require a biological resources assessment prepared according to State and federal protocols for projects with the potential to impact rare, threatened, endangered, or special-status species or their habitat, and implement appropriate mitigation for identified impacts.* COS-P4.4 Protect habitat and wildlife migration corridors, and support projects that enhance these areas.* COS-P4.5 Discourage the use of fencing that poses risks to wildlife.* Goal COS-4 Preserved and enhanced ecological resources and wildlife habitat. 7 -14 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element FIGURE COS-3 EAST CONTRA COSTA COUNTY HABITAT CONSERVATION PLAN/NATURAL COMMUNITY CONSERVATION PLAN AREA Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -15 FIGURE COS-4 PRIORITY CONSERVATION AREAS 7 -16 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element COS-P4.6 Require appropriately-timed, comprehensive floristic and vegetation surveys prepared according to State and federal protocols when development is proposed on land with potentially suitable habitat for special-status plant species, including areas mapped by the California Native Plant Society as Botanical Priority Protection Areas.* COS-P4.7 Require avoidance and protection of sensitive ecological resources not approved for disturbance or removal during project entitlement, and require restitution in exceedance of standard mitigation ratios for inadvertent damage to these resources.* COS-P4.8 Require majority use of native plant species in landscaping for new developments, and require construction practices that avoid spread of invasive plant species by minimizing surface disturbance; seeding and mulching disturbed areas with certified weed-free native mixes; disinfecting/ decontaminating equipment; and using native, noninvasive, drought-resistant species in erosion-control plantings.* COS-P4.9 Support preservation of native and sport fisheries and reestablishment of fisheries in streams wherever possible. Actions COS-A4.1 For the portion of the county not covered by the HCP/NCCP, prepare and maintain a similarly detailed inventory of ecologically significant resource areas, including unique natural areas, wetlands, floodplains, riparian resources, and the habitat of rare, threatened, endangered, and other uncommon and protected species.* COS-A4.2 Amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to include development standards, and possibly adopt accompanying design guidelines, for urban land uses that interface with ecologically significant resource areas and other protected conservation lands, addressing, at minimum: (a) Setbacks on urban properties to provide a buffer for resource areas. (b) Clustering of development to maximize ecological and conservation benefits. (c) Lighting, fencing, screening, and landscaping/vegetation that support, and do not interfere with, wildlife migration and other conservation purposes.* See the scenic resources section of this Element for policies and actions related to conservation of hillsides and steep slopes. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -17 Creeks, Wetlands, and Riparian Areas Contra Costa County hosts abundant aquatic habitat through its freshwater and coastal salt marshes, mud flats, inland wetlands, and riparian vegetation. Wetlands, especially marshes scattered along the shoreline, are among the most important habitat resources within the county and have substantial legal and policy protection. They are critical for climate resilience, as they offer flood and storm surge protection during storm events by absorbing excess water and reducing erosion and the height of flooding. Wetlands also intercept water runoff and remove pollutants, improving water quality. Wetlands in Radke Martinez Regional Shoreline Park provide valuable wildlife habitat along the Carquinez Strait. (Community-submitted photo) As illustrated on Figure COS-5, many creeks, streams, and other drainages extend throughout the county and ultimately drain into San Francisco Bay, San Pablo Bay, and the Delta. Outside the urbanized parts of the county, creeks and streams tend to be in a natural or mostly undisturbed state, supporting diverse plant and animal life. The riparian ecosystems along creek banks provide permanent homes and migratory pathways for many species, while also offering recreational opportunities for people to connect with nature. Natural creeks and other freshwater bodies also store water and help to recharge groundwater basins, which increases resiliency to drought conditions. However, many creeks within urbanized areas have been heavily modified to support flood control, often by rerouting them into concrete channels or culverts. Recognizing the importance of creeks in supporting ecological, recreational, and flood-control goals, in 2009 the County adopted an outline of a 50-year plan to convert creeks back to their natural state. Goal COS-5 Policies COS-P5.1 Support protection, restoration, and enhancement of creeks, wetlands, marshes, sloughs, and tidelands, and emphasize the role of these features in climate change resilience, air and water quality, and wildlife habitat. Goal COS-5 Protected and restored natural watercourses, riparian corridors, and wetland areas that improve habitat, water quality, wildlife diversity, stormwater flows, and scenic values. 7 -18 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element FIGURE COS-5 WATERSHEDS, WATERBODIES, CREEKS, AND RIVERS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -19 COS-P5.2 Require new public infrastructure and private development projects to preserve, and whenever possible enhance, natural watercourses, floodplains, and riparian habitat.* COS-P5.3 Require avoidance, minimization, and/or compensatory mitigation for development that would impact a wetland, wetland species, or adjacent upland habitat areas. Where feasible, compensation shall be in-kind (i.e., the same type of habitat), provided on-site, and based on a ratio that provides a margin of safety reflecting the expected degree of success and accounting for the relative functions and values of the lost and created wetlands.* COS-P5.4 Require new buildings and structures on private property be set back at least 75 feet from the edge of any wetland area, unless a peer-reviewed, site-specific evaluation indicates that a different setback is appropriate for protecting the wetland and adjacent upland habitat areas. Allow encroachment into a required wetland setback area only when a parcel would otherwise be rendered unbuildable or impacts have been adequately mitigated.* COS-P5.5 Acquire deeded development rights to setback areas surrounding wetlands, floodplains, and natural watercourses to ensure preservation of the resource and protect adjacent improvements.* COS-P5.6 Require increased setbacks for animal-handling uses whenever necessary to protect natural watercourses, riparian habitat, or erosion-prone soils. Setback increases can be applied to all aspects of the use, such as manure storage areas, and are not limited to buildings and structures.* COS-P5.7 Allow encroachments into required setback areas along natural watercourses and wetlands for the purpose of constructing public improvements or public-serving amenities, such as bridges, trails, and nature viewing areas. COS-P5.8 Prohibit direct runoff of pollutants and siltation into marsh, creek, and wetland areas from outfalls serving urban development.* Actions COS-A5.1 Inventory wetlands, floodplains, marshlands, and adjacent lands that could potentially support climate adaptation (e.g., through flood management, filtration, or other beneficial ecosystem services) and mitigation (e.g., carbon sequestration).* COS-A5.2 Amend the County Ordinance Code to include the wetland setback requirement described in Policy COS-P5.4.* 7 -20 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element COS-A5.3 Amend the County Ordinance Code to apply the creek setback requirements in Title 9 – Subdivisions to all projects, including those that are not part of a subdivision.* See the Health and Safety Element for policies and actions about flooding and sea-level rise. Uplands The upland areas of Contra Costa County support grasslands, shrublands, woodlands, and forests. These natural communities are important because they provide carbon sequestration, nutrient cycling, forage and homes for wildlife, erosion control, and recreation, while also supporting agriculture and other working lands. Oak trees, an iconic part of the landscape in the county and throughout the state, are recognized by State law with special protections for oak woodlands. Oak trees dot the natural landscape in upland areas of Contra Costa County. (Community- submitted photo) Goal COS-6 Policies COS-P6.1 Preserve natural woodlands and significant trees, particularly mature native species.* COS-P6.2 Encourage planting and propagation of native trees throughout the county to enhance the natural landscape, provide shade, sustain wildlife, absorb stormwater, and sequester carbon. COS-P6.3 Support protection of native trees, especially oaks, in foothill woodlands and agricultural areas by encouraging voluntary installation of fencing around individuals or clusters of trees to prevent grazing and promoting replanting of native species. COS-P6.4 Encourage removal of invasive, non-native tree species, especially those known to pose threats to public safety. Goal COS-6 Preserved and enhanced native upland habitat, including woodlands, grasslands, and rangelands. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -21 COS-P6.5 Encourage revegetation of native species in areas that were previously converted for agriculture but are no longer in production. Actions COS-A6.1 Update County Ordinance Code Chapter 816-6 – Tree Protection and Preservation, to enhance tree protections and strengthen mitigation requirements/restitution for tree removal.* COS-A6.2 Develop an Oak Woodland Conservation Program that establishes special mitigation ratios for removal of oak trees, along with specific tree replacement and planting standards to ensure long-term growth and survival. Amend the County Ordinance Code as needed to implement the program.* WATER RESOURCES Surface and Groundwater Resources Supporting the life-sustaining properties of water as a natural resource is a complex challenge. Water is dynamic, contested, and increasingly scarce. Maintaining the quality of the county’s water supply requires protecting surface water and groundwater from the impacts of past and future development. An important tool for protecting water quality is the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES), which requires a permit to discharge water or wastewater into surface waters. The County supports the efforts of outside regulatory agencies who protect water quality, and actively monitors regional, State, and federal programs that could affect water quality and water supply safety in the county. As discussed in the Public Facilities and Services Element, there are two major water service providers in the county that rely on surface water resources from the Mokelumne River and Delta: EBMUD and CCWD. These utilities own the watershed lands around their storage reservoirs, as shown in Figure COS-6, and they actively manage the land to protect the quality of the East Bay’s water supply. Figure COS-7 shows Census tract rankings for impaired waterbodies in the county. This data ranks Census tracts based on the number of pollutants found in all waterbodies within the Census tract that are designated as impaired relative to Census tracts in the rest of the state. As shown in the figure, the highest rankings for impaired waterbodies are in East County where pesticide use from agricultural operations harms water quality. Some Census tracts on the north and west sides of the county also rank high, mainly due to discharge from industrial uses. State data also demonstrates threats to groundwater quality, as shown in Figure COS-8. This data ranks Census tracts based on activities that pose threats to groundwater quality, such as uses involving hazardous chemicals, gasoline or diesel, solvents, heavy metals, or pesticides. These threats are most significant along the Northern Waterfront where there is a high concentration of heavy industrial uses. The Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA), enacted in 2015, provides a framework of priorities and requirements to facilitate sustainable groundwater management throughout the state. Groundwater Sustainability Agencies (GSAs) and other local public agencies help manage groundwater in high- and medium-priority groundwater basins to ensure it is maintained 7 -22 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element FIGURE COS-6 UTILITY DISTRICT WATERSHED LANDS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -23 FIGURE COS-7 IMPAIRED WATERBODIES RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE 7 -24 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element FIGURE COS-8 GROUNDWATER THREAT RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -25 within its sustainable yield. Groundwater Sustainability Plans (GSPs) are adopted and implemented by GSAs and other agencies to be consistent with the SGMA. Groundwater basins in the county are shown in Figure COS-9. Three of these are medium-priority: East Contra Costa, East Bay Plain, and Livermore Valley. In eastern Contra Costa County, seven local agencies, including the County, are GSAs. These agencies signed a memorandum of understanding agreeing to prepare a single GSP for the East Contra Costa Subbasin, which was adopted by the County in December 2021. Goal COS-7 Policies COS-P7.1 Require new development to reduce potable water consumption through use of water-efficient devices and technology, drought-tolerant landscaping strategies, and recycled water, where available.* COS-P7.2 Partner with water and wastewater service providers, GSAs, irrigation districts, and private well owners to increase participation in water conservation programs countywide. COS-P7.3 Consult applicable GSPs and local GSAs before making land use decisions that could impact groundwater resources.* COS-P7.4 For projects in areas without a water service provider, require proof of adequate on-site groundwater during the development review process. In addition to requiring compliance with the County’s well regulations related to water quality and flow rate, require documentation that the proposed project will not have a significant cumulative impact on the aquifer or negatively affect development that already relies on the same groundwater supply.* COS-P7.5 Prohibit new development that would create or significantly aggravate groundwater overdraft conditions, land subsidence, or other “undesirable results,” as defined in Section 354.26 of the California Water Code.* COS-P7.6 Support multipurpose water storage options that incorporate water supply, flood control, surface and groundwater storage, groundwater management, and ecosystem components. COS-P7.7 Require landscaping for new development to be drought- tolerant, filter and retain runoff, and support flood management and groundwater recharge.* Goal COS-7 Sustainable surface and groundwater resource management. 7 -26 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element FIGURE COS-9 GROUNDWATER BASINS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -27 COS-P7.8 Promote installation of drought-tolerant green infrastructure, including street trees, in landscaped public areas. COS-P7.9 Support wastewater reclamation and reuse programs that maximize use of recycled water. COS-P7.10 Support programs and activities conducted by community watershed groups and volunteers that increase public awareness and encourage stewardship of water resources. Actions COS-A7.1 Update County Ordinance Code Chapter 414-4, Water Supply, to be consistent with adopted GSPs.* COS-A7.2 For areas that are not covered by an adopted GSP, amend the County Ordinance Code to include sustainability indicators, defined by the SGMA, as a guide for development to maintain and protect the quality and quantity of groundwater supplies within the county.* COS-A7.3 Evaluate the feasibility and necessity of amending the County Ordinance Code to promote rainwater harvesting, installation of dual plumbing, and water reuse. COS-A7.4 Publish information on the DCD website about alternative sources of water for irrigation and other non-potable needs, such as greywater, rainwater, air conditioning condensation, and foundation drainage. Goal COS-8 Policies COS-P8.1 Protect public water supplies by denying applications for projects that would introduce significant new pollution sources in groundwater basins and watersheds feeding major reservoirs, and support efforts to acquire and permanently protect reservoir watersheds.* COS-P8.2 Coordinate with other agencies to control point and non- point sources of water pollution and maintain water quality standards.* COS-P8.3 Support development and implementation of a long-term, area-wide integrated vegetation management program to control invasive weeds in a way that reduces pesticide use and preserves water quality. Goal COS-8 Protected quality of surface water and groundwater resources. 7 -28 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element COS-P8.4 Require new development to retain natural vegetation and topography whenever feasible and require projects involving erosion-inducing activities to use best management practices to minimize erosion.* COS-P8.5 Require groundwater monitoring programs for all large-scale commercial and industrial facilities that use wells and prohibit discharge of hazardous materials through injection wells.* COS-P8.6 Support ongoing remediation of the Mount Diablo Mercury Mine. See the Public Facilities Element for policies and actions on water and wastewater service, drainage, and stormwater management. See the Health and Safety Element for policies and actions on flood control. Delta and Shoreline Resources Encompassing 738,000 acres, the Delta is the largest estuary on the West Coast and the confluence of California’s two longest rivers: the Sacramento River and San Joaquin River. East County is home to a large portion of the western Delta where unique plant and animal communities flourish. The Delta is one of the county’s greatest natural resources, and its health is critical to the county’s physical, societal, and economic well-being. A healthy Delta requires sufficient high-quality water to provide habitat for fish and other native aquatic, terrestrial, and avian species, both migratory and year-round. The Delta needs proper management, including through partnerships between federal, State, and local agencies, to protect people and land with strong levees, comprehensive emergency response, and fresh water. The Delta also promotes the economic health of the region through recreation, industrial and maritime commerce, and agriculture. The Delta provides a portion of the water supply for 30 million people and over 6 million acres of agriculture. However, the Delta’s health has declined in recent decades due to wetland loss, diversions of water for export to other regions, increased salinity from diversions and drought, pollution from urban run-off and agricultural pesticide use, and invasive species, which threatens our health, safety, and welfare. Without continued improvements to the ecosystem through conservation and restoration efforts and sustainable land use practices, the Delta is at risk of further decline. Understanding this need, the County adopted its Delta Water Platform in 2014 to guide decisions, actions, and advocacy in a way that supports the Delta’s health and sustainability. The Delta is an extensive network of waterways stretching from East Contra Costa County to Sacramento and Stockton. (Credit: California Department of Water Resources) Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -29 Goal COS-9 Policies COS-P9.1 Advocate for increased freshwater flow into, through, and from the Delta into San Francisco Bay, and support other efforts to protect and improve Delta water quality. COS-P9.2 Support continued maintenance and improvement of Delta levees to protect water quality, ecosystems, agricultural land, and at-risk communities. COS-P9.3 Oppose all efforts to construct an isolated conveyance (e.g., peripheral canal, tunnel) or any other water diversion system that reduces Delta water flows unless and until it can be conclusively demonstrated that such a system would protect, preserve, and enhance water quality and fisheries of the San Francisco Bay/Delta estuary system. COS-P9.4 Plan for land uses along shorelines that do not pose a threat to Bay or Delta resources, including water quality and shoreline and marshland habitats.* COS-P9.5 Support efforts to expand and enhance public access to the Bay shoreline and Delta. COS-P9.6 Prohibit private development on tule islands, sand dunes, and levee remnants. COS-P9.7 Evaluate cumulative impacts on boating safety when reviewing applications for new or expanded marinas and docks. COS-P9.8 Require design excellence for new development along Bay and Delta waterways to enhance the visual quality of these areas. Actions COS-A9.1 Amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to incorporate the following requirements for new or expanded marinas and docks: Goal COS-9 Protected, preserved, and enhanced scenic quality, recreational value, and natural resources of the San Francisco Bay/Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta estuary system and shoreline. 7 -30 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element (a) Adequate channel width and depth, as defined by the State Harbors and Navigation Code. (b) Adequate public fire protection services. (c) Adequate public vehicular access. (d) Adequate supply of potable water. (e) Adequate on-site facilities for sewage and solid waste disposal. (f) Compatibility with nearby agricultural uses. (g) Compatibility with nearby conservation/habitat lands. (h) Designed to avoid inundation from projected sea- level rise, as shown on Figures HS-6 through HS-9 (Sea-Level Rise Projection Maps) in the Health and Safety Element.* HISTORIC AND CULTURAL RESOURCES Archaeological and Historic Resources Although the Spanish explored Contra Costa County as early as 1772, significant European settlements were not established until the nineteenth century. In 1822, the newly independent Mexican government began issuing land grants, called ranchos, to its citizens in California. Sixteen ranchos existed in what is now Contra Costa County, and most of the land was used for grazing or growing wheat. One rancho was later purchased by a settler named John Marsh in 1837. It became known as Marsh’s Landing, near present day Antioch, and grew into an important commercial center along the San Joaquin River during the California Gold Rush. The success of Marsh’s Landing encouraged other American immigrants to purchase land in the area, and permanent communities began to take shape. Following the Gold Rush, agriculture was the economic driver in the region, boosted by the Southern Pacific Railroad’s expansion into the area in the late nineteenth century. South of Brentwood, the John Marsh House was built by Dr. Marsh in 1856. (Community- submitted photo) Industrial development and associated residential development to house workers shaped the western portions of Contra Costa County from the early twentieth century. In 1906, the C&H Sugar Factory was established in Crockett, taking advantage of cargo ship access via the Carquinez Strait. Petroleum refineries were also developed during the late 1800s and early 1900s. World War II brought rapid expansion of industrial development to support war efforts, including the famous Kaiser Richmond Shipyards. Over centuries, people have immigrated to the region from other cities, states, and countries, and the diverse population forms the unique fabric of modern-day Contra Costa County. This history is represented in the almost Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -31 400 historic sites, buildings, and other structures that have been identified in Contra Costa County’s Historic Resources Inventory. They range from historic buildings that were part of the early industrialization of the western county, like the C&H Sugar Factory, to historic ranches and homes, like the home of John Muir, which is part of the John Muir National Historic Site in Martinez. In 2019, the United States Congress established the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta National Heritage Area (NHA), which runs from the east side of San Pablo Bay through the Carquinez Strait to the Delta. The Delta NHA is recognized as a cohesive, nationally significant landscape arising from patterns of human activity shaped by the Delta’s geography. The Delta Protection Commission is drafting a Management Plan to promote historic preservation, cultural conservation, education and interpretation, development of recreational assets, nature conservation, tourism, and economic development throughout the Delta NHA. The draft Management Plan will be submitted for review and approval by the United States Department of the Interior in the first quarter of 2024. Other State and federal laws and programs help to protect historic and archaeological resources, including the California Historical Building Code, which preserves California’s architectural heritage by ensuring historic buildings are maintained and rehabilitated in accordance with historically sensitive construction techniques. In addition, the Mills Act, enacted in 1976, provides a property tax incentive to owners of qualified, owner-occupied, historical properties to maintain and preserve the historic property in accordance with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties. The National Historic Preservation Act coordinates public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect historic and archaeological resources across the nation. The Act authorized the National Register of Historic Places, which lists districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects that are significant in American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, and culture. Goal COS-10 Policies COS-P10.1 Prioritize preservation and adaptive reuse of buildings, sites, and areas having identifiable archaeological, cultural, or historic significance. Require new construction and renovation projects in historic areas to incorporate compatible and high-quality design that protects the overall historic integrity of the area and adjacent historic resources.* COS-P10.2 Encourage sensitive restoration and adaptive reuse of historic resources following the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties, including additions and alterations to buildings that do not diminish historic integrity. COS-P10.3 Encourage owners of historic properties to make use of the State of California Historic Building Code to protect and rehabilitate historic resources. Goal COS-10 Archaeological, cultural, and historic resources that are identified and preserved. 7 -32 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element COS-P10.4 Encourage owners of eligible historic properties to apply for State and federal designation as historic properties and participate in tax incentive programs, such as allowed under the Mills Act, for historic preservation. COS-P10.5 When a project involves a resource that is listed in the County’s Historic Resources Inventory, or as otherwise necessitated by the CEQA process, require applicants to engage a qualified consultant to prepare an evaluation of potential and previously identified archaeological, cultural, and historic resources that may be present on the project site.* COS-P10.6 Upon discovery of significant historic or prehistoric archaeological artifacts or fossils during project construction, require ground-disturbing activities to halt within a 50-foot radius of the find until its significance can be determined by a qualified historian, archaeologist, or paleontologist and appropriate protection and preservation measures developed.* COS-P10.7 Require significant historic, archaeological, and paleontological resources to be either preserved onsite or adequately documented as a condition of removal.* COS-P10.8 Emphasize native people, immigrant populations, and the environmental and cultural heritage of the region as significant themes related to historic preservation. Consider natural, agricultural, ranching, mining, commercial, industrial, residential, political, transportation, recreation, education, maritime, and military themes when evaluating the significance of historic resources. COS-P10.9 Ensure new cultural/historic resource evaluations consider potential social and cultural significance of resources in addition to architectural significance. COS-P10.10 Coordinate with cities and special districts to identify and preserve archaeological, cultural, and historic resources countywide. COS-P10.11 Partner with other agencies, culturally affiliated tribes, private entities, and nonprofit organizations to establish programs and funding mechanisms to preserve, restore, and enhance cultural, historic, and archaeologic sites. Actions COS-A10.1 Beginning in 2024, then every five years thereafter, review and update the County’s Historic Resources Inventory and Archaeological Sensitivity Map in consultation with culturally affiliated tribes to ensure these remain useful tools for evaluating potential cultural resources impacts and guiding preservation efforts. As part of the 2024 update to the Historic Resources Inventory, create a map of the listed historic Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -33 resources, and update the map upon each update to the Historic Resources Inventory. Ensure tribal cultural resources identified through these updates remain confidential. COS-A10.2 Evaluate and implement one or more measures to protect and preserve historic and cultural resources, such as a historic and cultural resources ordinance, overlay district, and/or design guidelines. COS-A10.3 Prepare a historic context statement that provides necessary background information about historic, archaeological, and cultural resources and a framework for identifying and evaluating historic resources. The context statement should include the overarching significance themes described in Policy COS-P10.8. COS-A10.4 Partner with the Delta Protection Commission to support preparation and implementation of the management plan for the Delta NHA. Tribal Communities Contra Costa County is in an area where traditional territories of three Native American tribal communities – the Bay Miwok, Northern Valley Yokuts, and Ohlone – converged. The Bay Miwok inhabited the inner Coast Range, with territory stretching through eastern Contra Costa County, from Mount Diablo into the Delta. The Bay Miwok were politically organized by tribelet, which consisted of one or more villages and camps within a defined territory. The Northern Valley Yokuts are the historical occupants of the central and northern San Joaquin Valley, and their territory extended into eastern Contra Costa County. Their main settlements were built atop low mounds on or near the banks of large watercourses for protection against flooding. Each subtribe was autonomous with a headman, and populations averaged around 300 individuals. The territory of the Ohlone people extended along the coast from the Golden Gate south to just below Carmel, as well as along several inland valleys that led from the coastline. The Ohlone were also politically organized by tribelet, with each having a designated territory. All of these tribal communities were primarily hunter-gatherers; they hunted animals like mule deer, tule elk, pronged antelope, mountain lions, whales, and waterfowl. They would travel seasonally into the foothills or plains to gather specific plant resources, such as acorns, buckeye nuts, hazelnuts, and pine nuts, as well as seeds, roots, and berries. These and other resources likely supported hundreds of individual villages throughout what is now Contra Costa County. Despite the violence and displacement that accompanied European and Mexican settlement of this area and decimated indigenous communities, the indigenous inhabitants of the land are still present. Today, there are several Ohlone nations in Contra Costa, Alameda, Solano, Napa, and San Joaquin Counties, each with its own culture and language, including the Lisjan (Ohlone), Karkin (Ohlone), Bay Miwok, Plains Miwok, Delta Yokut, and Napian (Patwin). 7 -34 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element This rich tribal history and living tribal culture are reflected in a range of tribal cultural resources throughout the county. Tribal cultural resources often are less tangible than an object or a site itself. For example, sometimes the importance is tied to views of or access to a sacred site. Therefore, consultation with culturally affiliated Native American tribes is key to identifying tribal cultural resources, as required by Assembly Bill 52. CEQA requires that local agencies evaluate and mitigate to the extent feasible a project’s potential impacts to tribal cultural resources. In addition, Section 7050.5 of the California Health and Safety Code requires that construction or excavation be stopped in the vicinity of discovered human remains until the County Coroner can determine whether the remains are those of a Native American. If the remains are determined to be Native American, the Coroner must contact the California Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) to determine appropriate treatment (as prescribed in Public Resources Code Section 5097 et seq.). Construction or excavation activity must remain stopped until lawful removal of the remains for reinternment or cremation. Pursuant to Senate Bill 18, the County notified and consulted with local tribes throughout the General Plan update process. The policies and actions in this section reflect that consultation and commit the County to continuing a collaborative relationship through implementation of this General Plan. Goal COS-11 Policies COS-P11.1 Respect and protect tribal cultural resources, including historic, cultural, and sacred sites; cultural landscapes; views of or access to resources; and objects with cultural value to California Native American tribes.* COS-P11.2 Establish and maintain collaborative relationships with local Native American tribal representatives to facilitate tribal consultation and preservation of tribal cultural resources.* COS-P11.3 Consult with culturally affiliated tribes on General Plan and Specific Plan amendments with potential to impact tribal cultural resources. If an amendment redesignates a tribal cultural resource site for open space purposes, evaluate the appropriateness of developing a treatment and management plan for tribal cultural resources in the affected area.* COS-P11.4 Consult with culturally affiliated tribes to identify and appropriately address tribal cultural resources through the discretionary development review process.* COS-P11.5 Consult with culturally affiliated tribes to assess the sensitivity of sites and protect recorded and unrecorded tribal cultural resources.* Goal COS-11 Robust tribal collaboration to preserve, restore, and enhance tribal cultural resources. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -35 COS-P11.6 Encourage voluntary landowner efforts to protect tribal cultural resources. COS-P11.7 Support tribal acquisition of conservation easements on terms mutually satisfactory to the tribe and landowner for purposes of protecting tribal cultural resources. COS-P11.8 Encourage special districts, such as EBRPD, to consult with culturally affiliated tribes when pursuing land acquisitions for recreation or other public purposes to ensure tribal access to tribal cultural resources. COS-P11.9 Avoid impacts of development on Native American archaeological resources and tribal cultural resources whenever possible. When impacts cannot be avoided, mitigate to the maximum feasible extent.* COS-P11.10 Consult with culturally affiliated tribes when developing mitigation measures to avoid or minimize impacts on tribal cultural resources. Mitigation could include, but is not limited to, a cultural resources treatment agreement between the developer and affected tribe(s) that addresses the treatment and disposition of cultural resources and human remains and tribal monitoring during earth-disturbing activities.* COS-P11.11 Upon discovery of a burial, human remains, or suspected human remains, require immediate halt to ground-disturbing activities such as excavation and grading, protection of the area surrounding the find, notification of the County Coroner, and compliance with the provisions of California Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5, including California Public Resources Code Section 5097.98, if applicable. If human remains are determined to be Native American, require the applicant to consult with the Most Likely Descendants list to determine appropriate treatment, as prescribed in Public Resources Code Section 5097 et seq.* COS-P11.12 Encourage landowners to relinquish ownership of Native American cultural artifacts found on project sites to the culturally affiliated tribe for proper treatment and disposition. Actions COS-A11.1 In consultation with local Native American tribes, prepare informational materials about living Native American culture in the region, the history of Native Americans in what is now Contra Costa County, and how the County’s relationship with local Native American tribes has evolved. Make these materials easily accessible to the public, project applicants, and County staff. COS-A11.2 Work with local Native American tribes to establish programs and secure funding to implement actions aimed at preserving tribal cultural resources. 7 -36 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element SCENIC RESOURCES With its vast open spaces, estuary system, and rolling hills, Contra Costa County encompasses an outstanding variety of scenic natural vistas, water resources, and landscapes. Many of these scenic resources, including the open spaces and Delta, are discussed in earlier sections of this Element. This section focuses on designated scenic routes and scenic ridges, which are described as follows: • Scenic routes are public roadways that pass through picturesque natural landscapes. These roads tend to offer sweeping views of particularly beautiful areas or prominent features, such as valleys and mountain ranges. • Scenic ridges are ridges that contribute to the scenic quality and character of a community or locale. In many areas, visually prominent ridges offer a striking and welcome contrast to the urban environment. Unobstructed ridgelines are an important component of the county’s scenic landscape. Figure COS-10 shows scenic routes and ridges as designated by the County through this General Plan. The map also includes the only scenic route in the county officially designated by the State, State Route (SR) 24, as well as portions of SR 4, which are eligible for the State designation. The County designates scenic routes and ridges in order to distinguish especially significant natural features within the landscape and maintain their aesthetic quality through policy protections. Goal COS-12 Policies COS-P12.1 Deny applications for development that would destroy unique and irreplaceable natural features, such as distinctive rock formations.* COS-P12.2 Require redesign of project components that negatively impact viewsheds or the visual quality of the area.* COS-P12.3 Prohibit development within 100 vertical feet of the top of designated scenic ridges and within 50 vertical feet of other visually prominent ridgelines. Exceptions may be considered Goal COS-12 Protected natural features with high scenic value, such as visual landmarks, major ridges, prominent hillsides, and stands of mature trees. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -37 FIGURE COS-10 SCENIC RESOURCES 7 -38 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element on existing legal lots where no other feasible building sites exist, and for infrastructure that requires high-elevation siting, such as wind turbines, communications towers, and water tanks. When siting buildings or infrastructure on or near ridges is unavoidable, require appropriate measures, such as screening, undergrounding, or camouflaging to mitigate visual impacts.* COS-P12.4 Preserve the scenic qualities of hillsides by encouraging designs that are sensitive to a site’s topography and prohibiting unnecessary grading and vegetation removal. COS-P12.5 Require restoration of natural contours and vegetation after grading and other land disturbances.* COS-P12.6 Prohibit extreme topographic modification, such as filling canyons or removing prominent hilltops. Exemptions may be considered for landfills, mining operations, and public or semi-public projects that necessitate such modifications.* COS-P12.7 Support preservation and enhancement of natural and human-made features that contribute to the scenic quality of the landscape and viewshed along designated scenic routes, and discourage projects that interfere with public views of those features. COS-P12.8 Require a visual impact analysis for projects with potential to significantly impact public views along designated scenic routes.* COS-P12.9 Enable flexibility in the design of projects in scenic corridors and support innovative solutions to protect views and visual quality. Actions COS-A12.1 Amend County Ordinance Code Division 814 – Slope and Hillside Development to convert the requirements from being a combining district to design and development standards related to building envelopes, building massing, colors, materials, grading, draining, and erosion control. COS-A12.2 Adopt design guidelines to preserve views, vistas, and defining natural features along designated scenic routes. MINERAL RESOURCES Mining in Contra Costa County dates to the 1850s, when coal fields were discovered north of Mount Diablo. Today, mining activities focus on construction aggregate (crushed rock, sand, and sandstone). Two rock quarries near Clayton and a sand quarry near Byron annually produce Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -39 hundreds of thousands of tons of construction aggregate that is used for public infrastructure and private construction projects throughout Northern California. High-quality sand from Byron is also used in glass manufacturing, including bottles for California wineries. Mineral extraction in Contra Costa County therefore is an important component of the regional economy. Conflicts between mining and urban uses throughout California led to passage of the Surface Mining and Reclamation Act of 1975 (SMARA). SMARA established policies for conservation and development of mineral lands and contains specific provisions for the classification of mineral lands by the State Geologist. SMARA requires all cities and counties to incorporate mapped designations approved by the State Mining and Geology Board (SMGB) in their general plans. These designations include lands categorized as Mineral Resource Areas (MRAs), the most significant of which contain mineral resources of regional or statewide significance. The county contains regionally significant MRAs, which are shown in Figure COS-11. Goal COS-13 Policies COS-P13.1 Protect valuable mineral resources by prohibiting incompatible projects and land uses (i.e., those that would directly or indirectly interfere with extraction, processing, or transportation of mineral resources) within the MRAs identified in Figure COS-11. COS-P13.2 Encourage compact design and layout for mineral resource processing areas, preserving as much land as possible for buffering between these areas and adjacent land uses. COS-P13.3 For residential subdivisions within one mile of the MRAs depicted in Figure COS-11, require deed disclosures indicating the presence of the mineral resource and explaining potential disturbances (e.g., noise, dust, heavy truck traffic) associated with mineral extraction activities.* COS-P13.4 Require applications for new or expanded quarrying operations adjacent to Mount Diablo State Park to include an analysis of potential impacts to the park’s natural features, including viewsheds, and operations.* COS-P13.5 Ensure that quarry reclamation plans, including bonding requirements, are maintained in compliance with SMARA. Actions COS-A13.1 Update County Ordinance Code Chapter 88-11 – Surface Mining and Reclamation, as necessary to maintain consistency with SMARA. Goal COS-13 Continued economic viability of mineral extraction operations while minimizing land use conflicts and environmental impacts. 7 -40 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element FIGURE COS-11 MINERAL RESOURCE AREAS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -41 ENERGY RESOURCES Contra Costa County has long been an energy producer. Coal mining began in the 1850s, as indicated previously. The first petroleum refinery in the Bay Area opened in Rodeo in 1896 and the county has historically been home to a small oil and natural gas production industry. However, energy production in Contra Costa County is evolving as reliance on fossil fuels decreases and the State enacts more aggressive policies to combat climate change. In recent years, the State has increased support for transitioning to cleaner- burning biofuels through investments in technology, infrastructure, and production. Biofuels, including biomethane, biodiesel, and gasoline and diesel fuels derived from renewable sources instead of petroleum, can reduce reliance on traditional fuel sources, improve air quality, and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Two former petroleum refineries in the county have already begun converting their operations from refining crude oil to processing cleaner biofuels. Today, most of the electricity generated in the county is from renewable sources, like wind and solar. The California Energy Commission designated the Altamont Pass area, including the Byron Hills portion of eastern Contra Costa County, as an area with high wind potential, as shown in Figure COS- 12. In the early 1980s the private sector responded to that designation and federal and State tax incentives by moving rapidly into the wind energy business as a secondary use on agricultural land. Those first windfarms, which were inefficient and environmentally destructive, have since disappeared. Two modern windfarms with a generating capacity of 116.2 megawatts (MW) now operate in the county. In 2017, the County received a grant from the California Strategic Growth Council to study the potential for renewable energy generation within its jurisdiction. The study estimated that 2,600 to 4,600 MW could be generated, with solar accounting for the vast majority (up to 4,410 MW, more than 75 percent of which is in existing urban areas). In 2020 the County adopted its Solar Energy Facilities Ordinance and designated rural areas in East County as potentially suitable for large-scale commercial solar energy development, as shown on Figure COS-12. The Solar Energy Facilities Ordinance regulates commercial solar energy facilities (i.e., facilities generating electricity for off-site use, usually for sale on the wholesale energy market) and provides a simplified permitting process for facilities on rooftops and parking canopies in commercial and industrial areas. The County also supports installation of solar energy systems generating electricity for on-site use through a low-cost, expedited permit process. Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) and MCE are the primary electricity providers for Contra Costa County. Most of the electricity consumed in the county is generated from large hydroelectric, solar, and wind sources, as indicated in the following graph. 7 -42 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element FIGURE COS-12 WIND AND SOLAR ENERGY RESOURCE AREAS IN RURAL AREAS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -43 Wind turbines generate power in East Contra Costa County near Byron. The State and Contra Costa County are moving towards reducing or eliminating natural gas use in existing and new buildings and transitioning to a clean energy economy. The County adopted an all-electric ordinance in 2022 requiring that all new residential, retail, office, and hotel buildings use electricity as the sole source of energy for space heating, water heating, cooking appliances, and clothes-drying appliances; natural gas and propane plumbing is prohibited. The County and regional utilities also provide rebates and programs to help make homes and businesses more resource efficient through energy audits, building retrofits, and opportunities to transition to a renewable electricity provider. The County continues to pursue opportunities for reducing overall energy use and increasing reliance on renewable sources, such as converting municipal and other wastes to energy resources (e.g., methane). In December 2015 the County adopted a Climate Action Plan, which is the County’s strategic approach to reducing GHG emissions from sources throughout the unincorporated area. The CAP identifies County programs and actions to decrease energy use, improve energy efficiency, develop renewable energy, reduce vehicle miles traveled, increase multi-modal travel options, expand green infrastructure, reduce waste, and improve the efficiency of government operations. The CAP also forecasts the County’s GHG emissions and sets reduction targets and strategies. As a document that is integral to implementation of the General Plan, the CAP was updated in parallel with this General Plan. Goal COS-14 Policies COS-P14.1 Implement Climate Action Plan strategies to improve energy efficiency and conservation, promote carbon-free energy sources, and reduce energy-related GHG emissions.* COS-P14.2 Partner with regional and State agencies (e.g., California Public Utilities Commission, California Energy Commission, and ABAG/MTC) to support energy efficiency and renewable energy planning efforts. Goal COS-14 Increased generation of and reliance on renewable, sustainable, and zero-carbon energy and reduced energy use. 7 -44 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element COS-P14.3 Support distributed electricity generation, including development of microgrids, renewable energy sources, storage capacity, and associated technologies. Encourage these throughout urban areas, and in nonurban areas when significant environmental impacts can be avoided or successfully mitigated. COS-P14.4 For residential subdivisions within two miles of the wind resource area depicted in Figure COS-12, require deed disclosures indicating the presence of the wind resource area and explaining potential disturbances (e.g., noise, shadow/flicker) associated with wind turbines. COS-P14.5 Support development of energy recovery projects (e.g., methane recovery from landfills and wastewater treatment plants). COS-P14.6 Support efforts to convert existing buildings to be low-carbon or carbon neutral. COS-P14.7 Encourage installation of battery storage systems in new and existing buildings, especially buildings with solar energy systems and buildings that provide essential community services. COS-P14.8 Design and construct new County facilities to be zero net energy to the extent feasible.* COS-P14.9 Work with energy service providers and the Bay Area Regional Energy Network to encourage property owners to participate in weatherization, education, rate incentive, and other programs and measures to improve energy efficiency in existing buildings. COS-P14.10 Require replacement and new water heaters and space heating and cooling systems to be electric if the building electric panel has sufficient capacity in accordance with Bay Area Air Quality Management District Regulation 9, Rule 4, and Regulation 9, Rule 6. Actions COS-A14.1 Amend County Ordinance Code Chapter 88-14 – Oil and Gas Drilling and Production to: (a) Prohibit new and expanded oil and gas production wells in the following: i. Sensitive ecological areas, such as wetlands and habitat for rare, threatened, endangered, or special-status species. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -45 ii. Areas subject to 100-year flood hazards or sea- level rise, as shown in Figures HS-2 and HS-6 through HS-9. iii. Areas within 3,200 feet of sensitive receptors or urban land use designations unless project- specific exceptions are granted by the California Department of Conservation, Geologic Energy Management Division. (b) Restrict oil and gas drilling operations to agricultural zoning districts only. (c) Require a land use permit for all new and expanded oil and gas wells. (d) Require a reclamation plan for oil and gas well sites that includes bonding for site clean-up. (e) Include performance standards related to water quality, air quality, odors, noise, and aesthetics. In parallel, study the feasibility of amending the County Ordinance Code to prohibit development of new oil and gas wells and phase out existing oil and gas well operations. COS-A14.2 Amend County Ordinance Code Division 88 – Special Land Uses to consolidate Chapters 88-3 and 88-30 governing wind energy conversion systems and solar energy facilities, respectively, into a new renewable energy chapter, with added provisions related to microgrids and battery energy storage systems. COS-A14.3 Amend County Ordinance Code Chapter 88-3 – Wind Energy Conversion Systems to require that decommissioned wind farms be returned to a condition consistent with the natural environment in the area at the time of decommissioning, rather than a return to pre-project condition. The following issues must be specifically addressed: (a) Unnecessary and poorly constructed roads that are sources of erosion. (b) Remaining turbine foundations/footings and underground conduit. (c) Abandoned equipment yards, turbine components, and other debris. COS-A14.4 Consider adopting new or modified reach codes that exceed the California Building Standards Code to require the use of lower-carbon intensive energy sources, to achieve higher feasible levels of energy conservation and efficiency, and to achieve lower feasible levels of GHG emissions. COS-A14.5 Maintain, update, publicize, and enforce the County Ordinance Code Title 7 – Building Regulations amendment requiring new residential buildings, hotels, offices, and retail to be all-electric. Evaluate the feasibility of including other building types as appropriate. COS-A14.6 Create a County policy or program to facilitate making existing residential and nonresidential buildings more energy- efficient and powered by carbon-free energy. 7 -46 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element COS-A14.7 Create a detailed roadmap to convert existing homes and businesses to use low- or zero-carbon appliances. The roadmap should include steps to support converting buildings to rely on low- or zero-carbon energy using an equitable framework that minimizes the risk of displacement or significant disruptions to existing tenants. COS-A14.8 Evaluate options for incentivizing and requiring additions and alterations to be energy efficient and to achieve the lowest feasible levels of GHG emissions, including upgrades to the building electric panel as needed. COS-A14.9 Ensure County-led and supported retrofit programs incentivize and prioritize conversion of buildings built before 1980 and emphasize assistance to owners of properties that are home to very low-, low-, and moderate- income residents or located in Impacted Communities, as permitted by available funding. COS-A14.10 Support legislative efforts to establish a green bank able to equitably finance sustainability projects, including renewable energy, energy efficiency, and green infrastructure, for residential and commercial customers. See the Transportation Element for policies and actions to reduce energy consumption in the transportation sector and the Health and Safety Element for policies and actions related to climate change and power line infrastructure and planned power shutoffs in relation to wildfire hazards. CONSERVATION, OPEN SPACE, AND WORKING LANDS ELEMENT PERFORMANCE MEASURES To track progress in achieving the major goals of this Element, every five years, the County will collect data to assess its performance against the following measures. Progress will be tracked relative to the prior performance review and the baseline year of 2024. Based on the findings from the five-year review, the County may adjust policies, actions, or the approach to implementing them to improve performance, as needed. • Increased acreage of land designated Resource Conservation or Parks and Recreation. • Increased gross value of agricultural production. • Increased acreage of land acquired for conservation of ecological resources. • Reduced per-capita water consumption. • Reduced per-capita electricity and natural gas consumption. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -1 8 PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES ELEMENT Contra Costa County is committed to providing a high quality of life for its residents. This commitment includes providing public services, infrastructure, and facilities that are accessible to and benefit all county residents, while also working with outside service providers to accomplish those same goals. Although the Public Facilities and Services Element is not explicitly required by State law, the topics addressed here are an integral part of the County’s overall planning strategy and a basic consideration in setting growth and development policy. The following nine sections are included in this Element: • The General Public Facilities and Services section includes policy guidance to support coordination, financing, and equitable distribution of public facilities and services that promote the economic, social, physical, and environmental wellbeing of residents. • The Water and Wastewater section includes policy guidance to provide safe, resilient, and environmentally responsible water and wastewater services to meet existing and future needs. • The Drainage and Flood Risk section includes policy guidance to support effective and resilient natural drainage systems and flood-risk management infrastructure. • The Sheriff, Fire, and Emergency Medical Service section includes policy guidance to provide efficient and effective public safety and emergency services, with emphasis on improvements to the physical environment that support a safe and accessible public realm. • The Solid Waste Management section includes policy guidance aimed at reducing waste, providing equitable and sustainable waste management services, and reducing illegal dumping. • The Parks and Recreation section includes policy guidance to develop an integrated and accessible park and trail system with a focus on improving access to parks for Impacted Communities. • The Schools section includes policy guidance to support a strong and diverse education system from primary school through higher education facilities. • The Libraries section includes policy guidance to expand library services to support access to information and educational opportunities for residents of all ages. • The Public Facilities and Services Element Performance Measures describe how the County will track its progress in achieving some of the major objectives expressed in this Element. This General Plan highlights policies and actions that address four major themes that serve as a framework for the Plan. For the reader’s ease, policies and actions related to these themes are identified throughout the General Plan using the following icons. The policies and actions related to each theme are also compiled in Appendix A. See Chapter 1 for more information about each theme. 8 -2 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element Community Health Environmental Justice Economic Development Sustainability GENERAL PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES Coordinated Facilities and Services The Crockett Community Services District provides bocce courts at Rithet Park. A complex array of County departments and districts and outside agencies serve the diverse needs of Contra Costa residents and businesses. In addition to the County and incorporated cities and towns, this includes: • Community services districts providing police, recreation, water, wastewater, and solid waste services. • Fire protection districts. • Healthcare districts. • Park and recreation districts. • School districts and a community college district. • Water districts, irrigation districts, and sanitary sewer districts providing water and wastewater services. • Reclamation districts and a municipal improvement district providing flood protection and levee and drainage maintenance services. The Contra Costa Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) regulates the jurisdictional boundaries of all cities and special districts, affecting which agencies provide services to a given area. Properties inside city limits receive certain services from the incorporated city, such as law enforcement. Fire protection, parks and recreation, and various other services may be provided by the city or a special district, or a combination of both. Other countywide services, like health and human services, hazardous materials response, and criminal justice, are provided by the County. As such, the County operates at many levels, simultaneously providing mandated countywide services and local services to unincorporated areas, and coordinating with the activities of State agencies, cities, and regional and local special districts. The County adopts a new budget annually that sets priorities and addresses operating costs. In September 2022, the Board of Supervisors adopted the Capital Facilities Master Plan, outlining a 20-year vision for transforming County facilities to improve customer service delivery and support County Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -3 employees providing those services, and guiding future capital facilities budgeting and planning decisions. Through Senate Bill (SB) 244, State law requires that general plans identify Disadvantaged Unincorporated Communities (DUCs) and evaluate and address any infrastructure or fire service deficiencies in those communities to support public health and safety. For counties, DUCs are defined as an inhabitated community with 10 or more dwelling units in close proximity, or where 12 or more registered voters reside, that is located outside of a city sphere of influence and has an annual median household income that is 80 percent or less of the statewide median. The County conducted a DUC analysis in 2023 and found that parts of Rodeo, Crockett, and Bethel Island meet the DUC criteria. Policy guidance related to infrastructure and service needs in these communities is provided in the respective Community Profiles, located in the Stronger Communities Element. Goal PFS-1 Policies PFS-P1.1 Consider potential effects on the physical, social, cultural, and recreational needs of the surrounding community when developing new County facilities. PFS-P1.2 Locate new County facilities that involve regular community access in places that are easily accessible by public transit, walking, and micromobility, to the greatest extent possible. PFS-P1.3 Encourage, and whenever possible require, public agencies to locate, design, construct, and operate their facilities in a manner that complements and avoids conflict with adjacent land uses. PFS-P1.4 Encourage, and whenever possible require, co-location and undergrounding of new utility infrastructure, such as transmission and distribution lines, fiber-optic cables, and pipelines, in existing rights-of-way to minimize visual, operational, and environmental impacts on the community. Actions PFS-A1.1 Streamline processes for special districts to establish new facilities that support their core mission and are consistent with General Plan goals and policies. PFS-A1.2 Update the Capital Facilities Master Plan, Capital Road Improvement and Preservation Program, Parks Capital Improvement Program, and similar plans and programs as needed to maintain consistency with this General Plan, particularly its provisions related to environmental justice. Goal PFS-1 Coordinated public facilities and services that support the economic, social, health, and environmental well- being of the county and its residents. 8 -4 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element PFS-A1.3 Notify and request comments from utility service providers on development applications.* PFS-A1.4 Upon each update to the Housing Element, perform an analysis of infrastructure needs and deficiencies in DUCs and explore funding mechanisms that could make extension of needed services and facilities feasible.* Just and Equitable Facilities and Services An uneven distribution of amenities along race and class lines reflects long legacies of racism and discrimination in how public facilities and services are provided. Environmental justice efforts seek equitable access to community investments, and SB 1000 requires that local agencies prioritize public investments in Impacted Communities, as discussed further in the Stronger Communities Element. Figure PFS-1 shows the locations of existing community facilities countywide in relation to Impacted Communities. The policy guidance in this section seeks to combat historic discrimination by promoting equitable distribution of and access to public facilities and services, and prioritizing improvements in Impacted Communities. This includes the types of facilities shown on Figure PFS-1, as well as technological resources like broadband internet to promote success in the Information Age and equitable code enforcement to promote healthy and safe neighborhoods. Goal PFS-2 Policies PFS-P2.1 Ensure County facilities and services meet the needs of all users, regardless of age, ability, race, ethnicity, culture, language, gender identity, or economic status. PFS-P2.2 Pursuant to SB 1000, as part of the County’s annual budgeting process, prioritize investments in public facilities, infrastructure, and services that benefit Impacted Communities and respond to their needs, particularly those needs identified in their Community Profiles. PFS-P2.3 Coordinate with service providers (e.g., water, wastewater, transit, and recreation districts) and advocate for proper planning, maintenance, and implementation of services and infrastructure to ensure efficient service delivery in Impacted Communities. Goal PFS-2 Public facilities, infrastructure, and services that meet the needs of, and are accessible to, residents of Impacted Communities. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -5 FIGURE PFS-1 COMMUNITY SERVICES FOR IMPACTED COMMUNITIES 8 -6 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element PFS-P2.4 Continue to provide contact information for the Code Enforcement Section of the Department of Conservation and Development (DCD) on the front page of the DCD website. Maintain clear, simple lines of communication for residents to reach the County regarding code enforcement and nuisance complaints, and ensure equitable, prompt responses. PFS-P2.5 Continue to prioritize and adequately fund code enforcement and clean-up of illegal dumping on public and private property in Impacted Communities. Actions PFS-A2.1 Establish funding and financing mechanisms in Impacted Communities to provide and maintain community-desired public facilities and services. These could be County- or community-initiated, and include business improvement districts, green benefit districts, and similar mechanisms. PFS-A2.2 Establish an entity within the County tasked with ensuring that County services and facilities in Impacted Communities are coordinated, prioritized, and delivered efficiently and effectively. PFS-A2.3 Implement and maintain urban greening and green infrastructure, such as sustainable/green street projects, in Impacted Communities. PFS-A2.4 Regularly assess Code Enforcement responses and Public Works maintenance practices to ensure equitable implementation. Prioritize resources to keep Impacted Communities safe and clean, emphasizing enforcement actions on issues identified in Community Profiles. PFS-A2.5 Work with the Contra Costa Crisis Center to provide Code Enforcement contact information through the 211 Contra Costa information service. PFS-A2.6 Pursue public-private partnerships that will improve access to reliable, fast internet and make digital resources available in Impacted Communities at affordable prices. Funding Services and Infrastructure Financing capital improvements and public services within Contra Costa County is complex, given the large number of agencies involved. As urban growth continues throughout the county, demands for public services and infrastructure will increase, which can place higher fiscal burdens on service providers. Meanwhile, many service providers lack adequate funding for ongoing maintenance and eventual replacement of existing infrastructure, Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -7 much of which was constructed in the decades immediately following World War II. Special financing mechanisms may be required to support major new development. These could include County Service Areas, community facilities districts, or other benefit assessment districts that fund services through a special tax on properties within the service area. New development is also subject to the County’s impact fee programs, which apply fees to development projects proportionate to the cost of providing public facilities and services to the development. Streetscape improvements like this project along Fred Jackson Way in North Richmond are provided by the County’s Public Works Department. Goal PFS-3 Policies PFS-P3.1 Coordinate with LAFCO, infrastructure and service providers, and cities to ensure infrastructure and services are reliable and provided in a cost-effective and equitable manner.* PFS-P3.2 Require new development to pay its fair share of public improvement costs for infrastructure, facilities, maintenance, and services based on the proportionate cost of serving the project.* PFS-P3.3 When new development cannot adequately be served by existing infrastructure and facilities or through the County’s impact fee programs, require a public facilities financing plan that identifies the necessary public improvements and establishes an equitable plan to pay for and develop the required improvements.* PFS-P3.4 When communities request levels of County services that exceed the countywide standard, require creation of (or annexation into) a County Service Area, community facilities district, or equivalent mechanism to fund the supplemental service costs. Allow exceptions for enhanced services in Impacted Communities if alternative funding sources can be identified.* Goal PFS-3 Adequate, fair, and cost-effective funding for public facilities, infrastructure, and services. 8 -8 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element PFS-P3.5 When new development needs ongoing infrastructure maintenance that exceeds County standards or existing funding levels, require creation of or annexation to a County service area, community facilities district, benefit assessment district, or other special funding unit to pay for those maintenance activities.* PFS-P3.6 When adopting, amending, and imposing impact fees, community benefits agreements, and developer exactions, consider the effects of such fees and exactions upon individual project economics, housing supply, economic development, and the County’s broad goals and objectives related to overall community development. If gap funding can be identified, consider fee reductions or exemptions for projects in Impacted Communities that are consistent with the community objectives identified in their Community Profile. Actions PFS-A3.1 Implement an equitable and standardized approach to property tax sharing with cities during the annexation process. PFS-A3.2 Regularly update development impact fees to ensure new development pays its fair share of infrastructure and service costs.* WATER AND WASTEWATER Water service consists of transmission of raw water from its source to a treatment facility, treatment, and then distribution through a network of pressurized pipes. Water service in unincorporated urban parts of Contra Costa County is provided by special districts and some cities, as shown in Figure PFS-2. The major water service providers in the unincorporated county are East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) and Contra Costa Water District (CCWD). • EBMUD provides treated water to approximately 1.4 million customers in western Contra Costa County and portions of Central County. EBMUD brings water from the Mokelumne River watershed in the Sierra Nevada through three 81-mile aqueducts to the East Bay. Water is stored in a network of reservoirs, including Briones, Lafayette, San Pablo, and San Leandro in Contra Costa and Alameda Counties prior to treatment. • CCWD provides treated water to approximately 500,000 customers in the urbanized parts of central Contra Costa County that are not serviced by EBMUD, as well as some eastern parts of the county. CCWD’s water is sourced from the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta via the 48-mile Contra Costa Canal. CCWD also stores water at Los Vaqueros Reservoir in East County, southwest of Byron. Properties outside of a water service district rely on individual groundwater wells or private water systems. Wastewater service consists of transmission of wastewater to a treatment facility, treatment, and then disposal of the wastewater and residual waste solids. As shown in Figure PFS-3, many special districts are responsible for wastewater service in unincorporated Contra Costa County. The largest wastewater service providers include Central Contra Costa Sanitary District Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -9 FIGURE PFS-2 WATER SERVICE DISTRICTS 8 -10 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element FIGURE PFS-3 WASTEWATER SERVICE DISTRICTS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -11 (CCCSD), which serves most of Central County, and the West Contra Costa Sanitary District (WCCSD), which serves much of West County. Rural areas outside district boundaries rely on on-site wastewater treatment systems to treat sewage. Goal PFS-4 Policies PFS-P4.1 Support the goal of regional self-sufficiency as part of new water system planning efforts, where all regions in the state are required to implement a variety of local water supply options and institute conservation and reuse programs to reduce reliance on exports from the Delta. PFS-P4.2 Encourage water service providers to require separate service connections and meters for recycled water use or where large quantities of water are used for special purposes, such as landscape irrigation. PFS-P4.3 Support the State Water Resources Control Board’s efforts to eliminate small public water systems in new development. Allow such systems only for projects that cannot feasibly be connected to a public water system.* PFS-P4.4 Partner with water service providers to ensure continuity of service and provide financial relief to Impacted Communities if prices rise during drought conditions. PFS-P4.5 Require new development to demonstrate the availability of a safe, sanitary, and environmentally sound water delivery system with adequate capacity.* PFS-P4.6 Require new development to demonstrate the availability of a safe, sanitary, and environmentally sound wastewater treatment system with adequate capacity.* PFS-P4.7 Support CCWD’s planned Phase 2 Expansion of Los Vaqueros Reservoir. See the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element for policies and actions related to water quality, conservation, and management. DRAINAGE AND FLOOD RISK Unlike engineered domestic water and sanitary sewer systems, the pattern of stormwater drainage is determined by water's natural tendency to flow downhill. Consequently, much of the drainage system serving the county consists of natural drainage swales, ditches, and watercourses. Water ultimately drains into San Francisco and San Pablo Bays, or the Delta. Goal PFS-4 Water and wastewater services that meet current and future needs in a safe, resilient, and environmentally responsible manner. 8 -12 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element Flood control infrastructure includes levees, drainage channels, and other structures designed to prevent creeks, the Delta, and other water bodies throughout Contra Costa County from overflowing their banks and causing floods. Conventional flood control infrastructure often incorporates concrete and riprap lined channels, detention basins, and other highly engineered solutions. Increasingly, communities and agencies are transitioning to “green infrastructure,” which focuses on using natural drainage swales, permeable pavement, and rain gardens to filter and absorb stormwater. The Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District (CCCFCWCD), which is a dependent special district governed by the County Board of Supervisors, is responsible for regional flood control projects. Incorporated cities and the CCCFCWCD have developed regional drainage plans in many areas to guide developers in implementing new drainage systems as part of development projects, and to provide the basis for local and federal flood control projects. On-site drainage infrastructure is provided and/or improved by developers as part of the land development process. Levees are especially important components of the county’s flood control infrastructure. Figure PFS-4 depicts Contra Costa’s levee system, most of which is owned and operated by public agencies such as reclamation districts. Similar to dams, levees hold back water and protect lower-lying areas from inundation. In Contra Costa County, many of these areas are at or below sea level. Levees protect critical infrastructure, including EBMUD’s water aqueducts, highways, railroads, natural gas pipelines and storage facilities, electrical transmission lines, and more. Many levees in the Delta region are unstable; they were constructed over 100 years ago on land that is settling due to subsidence and were not built to provide long-term protection. Since 1980, 27 Delta islands have been partially or completely flooded due to levee failure. Sea level rise, increased storm frequency and intensity, and higher flows from greater rainfall and less snowfall as a result of climate change will continue threaten levee stability and effectiveness. The California Department of Water Resources (DWR) implements the Central Valley Flood Protection Plan (CVFPP) to improve flood risk management in the Central Valley and the Delta. The CVFPP seeks to integrate and improve ecosystem functions concurrently with flood management investments and projects. It also calls for local agencies to protect urban communities (defined as communities with at least 10,000 residents) in the Central Valley from a 200-year flood, which is a flood that has a 0.5-percent probability (1 in 200) of occurring in any year. In unincorporated Contra Costa County, only Discovery Bay meets the criteria for 200-year flood protection. The capacity of Grayson Creek in Pacheco has been increased to protect against flooding Goal PFS-5 Natural systems and flood-risk management infrastructure that can handle stormwater year-round and adapt to new and changing conditions. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -13 FIGURE PFS-4 LEVEE CENTERLINES 8 -14 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element Goal PFS-5 Policies PFS-P5.1 Support public and private efforts to improve protection against flooding, subsidence, and inundation, especially projects that achieve 200-year flood protection or better, factoring in anticipated sea-level rise, in areas of the county covered by the CVFPP. PFS-P5.2 Partner with responsible parties, public and private, to ensure ongoing funding exists for maintenance and rehabilitation of flood management facilities and structures (e.g., levees, pump stations, canals, channels, and dams), particularly those that do not meet adopted State or federal flood- protection standards.* PFS-P5.3 Allow for future height increases to private levees protecting inland areas from tidal flooding and sea-level rise by requiring rights-of-way and setbacks to be sufficiently wide on the levee’s upland side and prohibiting new structures from being constructed on top of or immediately adjacent to the levee. PFS-P5.4 Support material stockpiling and equipment staging for emergency levee repair, especially in the western Delta. PFS-P5.5 Encourage new development to participate in programs that ensure ongoing maintenance of natural watercourses to maintain their flood carrying capacity and habitat values. PFS-P5.6 When developing new or revised regional drainage and flood management plans, including plans to protect against sea-level rise, incorporate adequate setbacks and alternative drainage system improvements that provide aesthetic, recreational, and environmental benefits. Improvements should avoid structural modifications to watercourses and preserve riparian habitat and floodplains, and convert engineered drainage systems to more natural systems, when and where possible. In areas at risk of temporary or permanent inundation from sea-level rise, ensure that improvements can continue to provide adequate protection for the projected level of inundation by 2100 or the expected operational life of the project, whichever is later.* PFS-P5.7 Incorporate green infrastructure into new and retrofitted flood-control and streetscaping projects, including replacing existing asphalt and other hardscapes with green infrastructure, as feasible.* PFS-P5.8 Encourage developers of properties along transit corridors and in commercial areas to combine their private stormwater treatment facilities with green infrastructure on the adjoining street frontage. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -15 PFS-P5.9 Encourage public participation in design processes for major flood control and sea-level-rise resiliency projects to ensure that these facilities are context-sensitive and provide multiple public benefits whenever possible. Actions PFS-A5.1 Identify existing developed areas where drainage maintenance issues exist and coordinate with each affected community to consider creating a benefit assessment district or similar local funding mechanism to pay for improvement and maintenance needs.* PFS-A5.2 Coordinate with responsible parties, public and private, to develop a flood risk management plan for the levee systems protecting the unincorporated county that: (a) Identifies the entities responsible for operation and maintenance of the levees. (b) Determines the anticipated flood levels in the adjacent waterways and the level of protection offered by the existing levees along the waterways. (c) Establishes a long-term plan to upgrade the system as necessary to provide at least a 100-year level of flood protection, and 200-year level of flood protection where required. (d) Considers the worst-case situations of high tides coupled with sea-level rise and storm-driven waves. (e) Protects beneficial uses of San Francisco Bay and the Delta and their water. (f) Prioritizes designs that foster riparian habitat while containing floodwaters, such as by using more natural materials, landforms, and vegetation, rather than concrete channels and other conventional flood- control infrastructure. (g) Encourages multipurpose flood-management projects that, where feasible, incorporate recreation, resource conservation, preservation of natural riparian habitat, and scenic values of waterways. (h) Takes a holistic approach to flood-risk management so that new infrastructure does not simply transfer flooding impacts from one property or location to another. (i) Considers flood and tidal impacts to existing brownfields, especially adjacent to shorelines. (j) Includes provisions for updates to reflect future State- or federally mandated levels of flood protection. PFS-A5.3 Develop watershed management plans incorporating best management practices that slow, spread, and sink water runoff to flatten the hydrograph (i.e., water flow over time) where erosion is a concern, while also enhancing wildlife habitat and recreation opportunities where feasible.* PFS-A5.4 Establish programs for development projects alongside natural watercourses that ensure regular maintenance of the waterway, including debris removal, erosion control, and conservation and restoration of native species.* 8 -16 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element PFS-A5.5 Coordinate with the Contra Costa County Mosquito and Vector Control District to identify and remedy areas with ongoing drainage problems to reduce disease risk from stagnant water. See the Health and Safety Element for policies and actions related to flood hazards and sea-level rise and the Parks and Recreation section later in this Element for policies and actions related to secondary recreational uses of flood- control infrastructure. SHERIFF, FIRE, AND EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICE Law enforcement services in Contra Costa County are provided by several agencies at various levels of government. In the unincorporated county, community policing is provided primarily by the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, with special districts like the Kensington Police Protection and Community Services District providing service in certain areas. Beyond police services, careful design of the built environment can also help prevent crime and increase the sense of safety. Research has shown that the certainty of being caught is a highly effective deterrent to criminal activity. Design elements that enhance visibility of public spaces, such as adequate lighting and windows and porches that encourage residents to have “eyes on the street,” can create safer environments. The policy guidance in this section emphasizes improvements to the physical environment that support an accessible and visible public realm. Additional policy guidance in the Stronger Communities Element addresses engagement with Impacted Communities to ensure the designs for public realm improvements allow residents and visitors to feel safe and welcomed. Fire protection services in unincorporated Contra Costa County are provided by six fire protection districts, as shown in Figure PFS-5. All fire protection agencies within the county have signed mutual-aid agreements to provide assistance to neighboring agencies. The firefighting capabilities of these agencies are further augmented by personnel and equipment from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. The Contra Costa Fire Protection District operates this station in rural Briones Valley. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -17 FIGURE PFS-5 FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICTS 8 -18 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element Contra Costa County Health Services contracts with the Contra Costa Fire Protection District, Moraga-Orinda Fire Protection District, San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, and American Medical Response to provide emergency ambulance service. Emergency response calls for the unincorporated county are fielded by the Office of the Sheriff’s Communications Center. Public safety response time standards provide a means to ensure that the community will remain safe as the county develops. The County strives to achieve the following public safety standards: • Sheriff Response Times: Average law enforcement response time of five minutes or less for Priority 1 calls (where a threat to people may exist). • Fire Response Times: o Four minutes or less response time for the arrival of the first engine company at a fire suppression incident, 90 percent of the time. o Six minutes or less response time for the arrival of the second engine company at a fire suppression incident, 90 percent of the time. o Eight minutes or less response time for an initial full alarm assignment at a fire suppression incident that does not involve a high-rise building, 90 percent of the time. o Ten minutes and 10 seconds or less response time for an initial full alarm assignment at a fire suppression incident that involves a high- rise building, 90 percent of the time. • Emergency Medical Services Response Times: o Four minutes or less response time for the arrival of a unit with a first responder, 90 percent of the time. o Eight minutes or less response time for the arrival of an advanced life support company, 90 percent of the time. Goal PFS-6 Policies PFS-P6.1 Require new development to support effective law enforcement and fire protection by providing a safe and accessible public realm for all. PFS-P6.2 Design, improve, and maintain public spaces to maximize visibility and safety through appropriate lighting and landscaping. PFS-P6.3 During the discretionary review process for projects with potential to increase demand on fire protection services, consult with the applicable fire district to identify any upgrades to fire protection facilities, infrastructure, and equipment needed to reduce fire risk and improve emergency response.* Goal PFS-6 Efficient and effective law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical services for all communities. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -19 Actions PFS-A6.1 Engage community members, law enforcement, and local leaders, and amend the County Ordinance Code to incorporate standards for new development that support a safe, accessible public realm for all through environmental design.* See the Health and Safety Element for policies and actions related to wildfire hazards and emergency response and the Transportation Element for policies and actions related to safe streets. SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT In Contra Costa County, the private sector is mainly responsible for solid waste collection and disposal, and the County is responsible for planning, administration, and facility approval. The County, Joint Powers Authorities (JPAs), and certain special districts enter into franchise agreements with private waste haulers to provide collection services. The County oversees solid waste management for about half of the unincorporated population, which is currently serviced by four different franchise agreements. Disposal facilities, which are shown in Figure PFS-6, are privately owned. Given the many entities involved, public and private, effective solid waste management requires significant coordination. Reducing waste in the first place, along with repairing or reusing items and materials, are important strategies for overall sustainability. The California Integrated Waste Management Act (CIWMA) requires cities and counties to adopt and implement waste diversion programs for source reduction, recycling, and composting, and requires that each county adopt a Countywide Integrated Waste Management Plan (CoIWMP); the County’s CoIWMP was adopted in May 1993. In addition to the CIWMA, the State continues to enact laws addressing solid waste and recycling. The County reports to the State annually regarding compliance with existing laws, including diversion goals and waste reduction measures. Waste that is not diverted is deposited into landfills, where it breaks down slowly and emits methane, a potent greenhouse gas (GHG), contributing to climate change. Methane emissions from landfills are a major source of the GHG emissions generated in the county. Landfill operators already capture a large proportion of this methane, which can be used to generate energy or converted to a liquid fuel that can be used to power vehicles and other equipment. There are opportunities for landfill operators to expand the methane collection infrastructure at the county’s landfills, capturing more methane and reducing the county’s GHG emissions. Illegal dumping is a large-scale pervasive problem in Contra Costa County and a high-priority issue because of its immediate and long-term adverse effects on health and safety, community assets, community pride, economic development, and natural habitats. Illegal dumping hot spots are widespread throughout the county, occurring on rural roads and agricultural land, in suburban neighborhoods, and in urban environments affecting many communities regardless of socio-economic status. However, Impacted Communities are disproportionately affected by illegal dumping. In 2018, the County formed an interdepartmental team and began implementing strategies to combat illegal dumping as part of the Contra Costa County Illegal Dumping Initiative. Strategies are grouped into four categories: educate, prevent, clean up, and enforce; they include a public outreach campaign to educate residents about dumping, street signs placed near dumping zones with information on how to report dumping activity, removal of abandoned recreation vehicles, and dedicated law enforcement to investigate dumping crimes. 8 -20 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element FIGURE PFS-6 SOLID WASTE PROCESSING AND DISPOSAL FACILITIES Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -21 Illegal dumping in Bay Point harms community character, health, economy, and natural resources. Goal PFS-7 Policies PFS-P7.1 Coordinate with private solid waste collection and disposal companies, cities, and other appropriate agencies to plan solid waste management facilities that are safe, effective, and efficient.* PFS-P7.2 Coordinate with other jurisdictions to ensure that solid waste management, including solid waste resource recovery (e.g., reduce, reuse, recycle, compost, and waste-to-energy), is carried out in accordance with the CoIWMP and meets strict environmental standards.* PFS-P7.3 Strive to provide equivalent solid waste collection services and rates across each unincorporated community under County franchise control. PFS-P7.4 Ensure that new development complies with the requirements of the CoIWMP.* PFS-P7.5 Require new residential and commercial uses to provide adequate space for trash, recycling, and organics collection, as well as edible food recovery when applicable.* PFS-P7.6 Encourage new technologies for organics processing consistent with SB 1383, the Short-Lived Climate Pollutants Reduction Strategy of 2016. PFS-P7.7 Support expansion of recycling programs and efforts to locate convenient, accessible recycling centers in Impacted Communities. Goal PFS-7 Safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible solid waste diversion and reduction practices and management. 8 -22 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element PFS-P7.8 Consistently use a multiprong approach (i.e., educate, prevent, clean up, enforce) to combat illegal dumping. PFS-P7.9 Prohibit new landfills in ecologically sensitive areas, and require that new landfills be located, designed, and operated to avoid adverse impacts to surrounding land uses, including by limiting the area of landfill activities; limiting hours of operation; providing safe and appropriate transportation routes; maintaining site security; identifying associated off-site feeder transfer stations; grading to blend the landfill disturbance area with surrounding topography; covering refuse daily; and mitigating noise, odor, litter, and visual impacts.* PFS-P7.10 Require that new landfills provide the following: (a) An appropriate leachate collection and recovery system. (b) An approved erosion-control and drainage plan. (c) Geotechnical studies, including stability analysis, to determine the most appropriate engineering design. (d) A habitat enhancement plan that provides for at least a 3:1 replacement for lost significant habitat.* PFS-P7.11 Require new landfills to be designed and operated so that upon decommissioning they can be repurposed for other uses, such as renewable energy facilities, recycling and organics recovery operations, outdoor recreation facilities, and open space. PFS-P7.12 Require that new and expanded landfill operations significantly reduce GHG emissions to meet or exceed State targets to the extent feasible, and work toward carbon- neutral landfills. PFS-P7.13 Extend the life of landfills by continually striving to: (a) Reduce the amount of solid waste generated. (b) Reuse and recycle as much solid waste as possible. (c) Utilize the energy and nutrient value of solid waste (i.e., waste-to-energy and composting). (d) Properly dispose of remaining solid waste.* PFS-P7.14 Discourage direct public access to landfills and instead direct the public to transfer stations. Base the need for new or expanded transfer stations on economics, the need to mitigate traffic impacts, and the need to inspect refuse for hazardous materials and recyclables. PFS-P7.15 Ensure transfer stations provide adequate capacity to accommodate recovery of recyclables and organic materials and encourage organics processing.* Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -23 PFS-P7.16 Include a condition of approval in land use permits for solid waste facilities requiring review for compliance with permit conditions every three to five years.* Actions PFS-A7.1 Study the potential benefits of combining the County’s solid waste collection franchise agreements, or adjusting the boundaries of franchise service areas, to improve efficiency and consistency. PFS-A7.2 Streamline the permitting process for composting, organics processing, and repair/reuse facilities. PFS-A7.3 Partner with community organizations and solid waste franchise collection haulers to maximize participation in community clean-up days and residential on-call garbage pick-ups in Impacted Communities. Encourage community participation by holding these events in conjunction with other community events whenever possible. PFS-A7.4 Work with other counties, cities, and community members to establish public/private partnerships to combat illegal dumping. PFS-A7.5 Install signage and increase education, monitoring, enforcement, and rapid cleanup to discourage illegal dumping, especially in Impacted Communities and rural areas. PFS-A7.6 Use the County’s legislative platform process and partner with other public agencies throughout the state to propose and support legislation to combat illegal dumping. PARKS AND RECREATION Contra Costa County is an outdoor enthusiast’s delight. Whether it is a peaceful nature walk through Carquinez Strait Regional Shoreline, an exciting hike around historic Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve, fishing at a local reservoir, or a fun day out with family and friends at a neighborhood park, the county offers something for residents of all ages and abilities. In this region, one can explore the beautiful landscapes, appreciate breathtaking views, enjoy outdoor activities, and learn about the local flora and fauna. This wide variety of activities encourages physical activity, learning, and socialization, while also providing opportunities for people to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors. Quality parks and recreational opportunities can also contribute to economic development by attracting visitors and promoting tourism. Overall, parks and recreation are essential to creating healthy, vibrant communities where individuals and families thrive. 8 -24 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element The Carquinez Strait Regional Shoreline provides trail recreation opportunities for residents and visitors. (Community-submitted photo) Most county residents are fortunate to have access to a variety of parks and trails in unincorporated areas, as shown on Figures PFS-7 and PFS-8: • State and regional parks provide a broad range of recreational opportunities, such as hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, fishing, swimming, camping, group sports, and ecological and cultural education. This category includes Mount Diablo State Park and Marsh Creek State Historic Park, which are owned and managed by the California Department of Parks and Recreation, as well as many regional parks owned and managed by the East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD). In addition, EBMUD and CCWD offer recreational opportunities, such as hiking and fishing, as secondary uses within the watersheds of their reservoirs. The US National Park Service also operates the Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial at Military Ocean Terminal Concord, John Muir National Historic Site in Martinez, and Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site just outside Danville. • Local parks are indispensable elements of our neighborhoods and communities. They serve as focal points where people can exercise and enjoy leisure time together, and include sports courts, playgrounds, playfields, or other amenities. Local parks in unincorporated areas are typically owned and maintained by the County or a special district, such as a recreation and park district or community services district. The local park system is often augmented by similar facilities on school campuses. In some areas, private organizations such as homeowners’ associations maintain parks for their communities, sometimes allowing public access. • Trails are essentially linear parks. They provide safe connections between residential neighborhoods, parks, schools, and other destinations. Because of their connectivity, they also act as alternative commute routes in some communities, though typically they’re restricted to pedestrian, bicycle, and micromobility use. Major regional trails in Contra Costa County include portions of the San Francisco Bay Trail, a 500-mile network of trails along San Francisco and San Pablo Bays that is managed collaboratively by several agencies, including the Metropolitan Transportation Commission/Association of Bay Area Governments, and EBRPD; portions of the 50-mile Carquinez Strait Scenic Loop Trail that is managed by the Bay Area Ridge Trail Council; and the 26-mile Iron Horse Regional Trail, 13.5-mile Contra Costa Canal Regional Trail, and 19-mile Delta de Anza Regional Trail managed by EBRPD. The county is also crisscrossed by innumerable smaller, local trails, many of which are unpaved and informal. While not shown on Figure PFS-7, numerous parks within incorporated cities and towns are also available to residents of unincorporated areas. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -25 FIGURE PFS-7 FEDERAL, STATE, REGIONAL, AND LOCAL RECREATION LANDS 8 -26 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element FIGURE PFS-8 TRAILS NETWORK Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -27 The County coordinates with agencies at all levels of government to provide and maintain parks and recreational programs in unincorporated communities. The County administers and regularly updates the Parks Capital Improvement Program, which allocates funding to park projects and maintenance based on community priorities and budget availability. Park acquisition and development are also funded in part through the County’s Parks Impact Fee, which is a fee charged to new residential projects. The fee amount is based on the project size, location, and type(s) of housing proposed. Access to parks and open space is an important environmental justice issue. Impacted Communities, which are described in the Stronger Communities Element, often lack access to the range and quality of facilities that support a high quality of life and positive public health outcomes. This can be a significant driver of poor physical and mental health. It is important to correct this inequity by investing in Impacted Communities and ensuring that each resident has access to space for outdoor physical activity. Ambrose Park provides play areas for children in Bay Point. Park standards provide a means to ensure that parks and recreation facilities are provided as the county develops. The County strives to provide 3 acres of local parks per 1,000 residents. This standard is an important tool for requiring new development to provide facilities when parks to serve new residents are lacking nearby. Goal PFS-8 Policies PFS-P8.1 Support development of a variety of local amenities that meet a diverse range of recreational needs, such as ballfields, all-abilities playgrounds, tot lots, spraygrounds, adult fitness courses, gymnasiums, swimming pools, sport courts, passive parks, pocket parks, urban gardens, and trails. PFS-P8.2 Provide a local park within a safe 10-minute walk for all residents in urban communities or within a 5-minute drive for residents in suburban communities, as indicated in Figures PFS-9 and PFS-10.* Goal PFS-8 An easily accessible, integrated system of high-quality parks and trails to meet the needs of all residents. 8 -28 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element FIGURE PFS-9 PUBLIC PARK AND OPEN SPACE WALKABILITY FOR URBAN COMMUNITIES Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -29 FIGURE PFS-10 DRIVE TIMES TO PUBLIC PARKS AND OPEN SPACE FOR SUBURBAN COMMUNITIES 8 -30 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element PFS-P8.3 Increase access to diverse, high-quality parks, green space, recreational facilities, trails, and natural environments for residents of Impacted Communities, including through multiple transportation modes. Partner with other agencies and non-governmental organizations to obtain funding, and design and maintain these facilities to offer a safe and comfortable environment for residents of all ages and abilities. PFS-P8.4 Prioritize and promote recreational activity programs and opportunities in Impacted Communities. PFS-P8.5 Whenever possible, require projects subject to the Park Dedication or Park Impact Fee Ordinances to develop park and recreation amenities listed in, or added to, the County’s Park Capital Improvement Plan. Park Impact fees or in-lieu fees should be assessed when the County determines developer improvements are not feasible.* PFS-P8.6 Support expanded access to recreation opportunities by working with other agencies to co-locate parks and trails with public facilities, such as schools and utility easements, with Impacted Communities prioritized. PFS-P8.7 Design recreational facilities to complement the natural features of the area, including topography and vegetation, whenever appropriate. PFS-P8.8 Support expanded public access to the waterfront and development of water-related recreational opportunities, such as fishing and boating. PFS-P8.9 Support development of a comprehensive and interconnected network of trails, including intra- and inter- regional trails like the San Francisco Bay Trail, Carquinez Strait Scenic Loop Trail, Great California Delta Trail, and Marsh Creek Corridor Trail, that provides public access to shorelines, ridges, and other scenic areas, connects residents with open space and nature, and links urban areas with parks and other recreational facilities. PFS-P8.10 Encourage use of abandoned railroad rights-of-way for trails or other public purposes and participate in collaborative planning processes to determine the best use of abandoned rail corridors. PFS-P8.11 Support local community groups and volunteer organizations in efforts to improve and maintain local parks, trails, and other public spaces, such as through an Adopt-A-Park/Trail program, especially in Impacted Communities. Actions PFS-A8.1 Create an internal County entity that works across departments and non-County agencies to coordinate Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -31 planning and funding of unincorporated local parks, recreational facilities, and trails. PFS-A8.2 Coordinate with recreation and park districts and cities to prepare a parks and open space needs assessment for all unincorporated communities, prioritizing Impacted Communities. Integrate the results of the assessment into a Parks Master Plan and the Parks Capital Improvement Program and implement improvements that address barriers to outdoor physical activity, such as inadequate infrastructure and safety concerns. PFS-A8.3 Annually update park dedication and in-lieu fee requirements based on the Consumer Price Index for All Customers, All Items for the San Francisco-Oakland-San Jose Metropolitan Area to accommodate for increases or decreases in development costs. Conduct a fee study at least once every 10 years to reflect changes in the cost of land, local park and recreational needs, and development conditions.* PFS-A8.4 Maintain up-to-date maps showing quarter-mile and half- mile walking distances and five-minute driving times to public parks. PFS-A8.5 Study the feasibility of developing an equestrian trail network throughout the county’s rural areas. SCHOOLS Good schools are the building blocks of vibrant, healthy communities. Communities with good schools are great places to raise families, and a good education system not only attracts new residents, but also encourages young people to remain in the community as they start their own families. Good schools are also economic development drivers, as businesses are attracted to communities where employees will have access to quality education for their families. The 18 school districts providing K-12 public education that serve Contra Costa County are shown on Figure PFS-11. Verde Elementary School in North Richmond is one of many schools operated by the West Contra Costa Unified School District. 8 -32 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element FIGURE PFS-11 SCHOOL DISTRICTS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -33 Colleges and universities also play an important role in community life. Aside from the direct contributions they make to the local economy as large employers, post-secondary educational institutions provide critical workforce development and training through partnerships with local businesses and community groups. Post-secondary public education in Contra Costa County is offered at California State University, East Bay – Concord Campus and three community colleges: Contra Costa College in San Pablo; Diablo Valley College in Pleasant Hill, with a satellite campus in San Ramon; and Los Medanos College in Pittsburg. Numerous public and private colleges and universities, including prestigious institutions like the University of California, Berkeley and Stanford University, are also within 50 miles of Contra Costa County, providing county residents with extraordinary opportunities to pursue higher education. Goal PFS-9 Policies PFS-P9.1 When reviewing new development proposals, coordinate with affected school districts to ensure adequate school capacity is or will be available, school sites are designated or dedicated if necessary, and adequate access is provided.* PFS-P9.2 Encourage dedication of school sites through density transfer of the dedicated acreage or other incentives. PFS-P9.3 Encourage school districts to use school sites for multiple community purposes, such as recreation, and to locate new schools in conjunction with and/or adjacent to parks and trails. PFS-P9.4 Oppose efforts by school districts to locate new schools outside the Urban Limit Line. PFS-P9.5 Support efforts to enhance and expand access to higher education. Actions PFS-A9.1 Amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning and Title 10 – Public Works and Flood Control to regulate public school siting and construction of off-site improvements related to public schools, to the extent allowable under Government Code Sections 53094 and 53097. Ensure these amendments include requirements for roadway improvements, including complete streets and multimodal roadway conditions. See the Stronger Communities Element for policies and actions related to workforce development. Goal PFS-9 Primary, secondary, and higher education facilities that serve the varied educational needs of all county residents. 8 -34 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element LIBRARIES Libraries are some of the oldest and most important public institutions. They provide access to knowledge and enhance public literacy. The Contra Costa County Library works in partnership with the incorporated cities and towns to operate 26 libraries across the county, offering robust programming for all ages, preschool to adults, including English as a Second Language (ESL), Science, Technology, and Mathematics (STEM) courses for kids, technology and computer help, interactive educational performances, arts and crafts events, book clubs, free lunches for children, and other programs. Residents can also reserve group study rooms and meeting rooms for educational, cultural, and community-related meetings, programs, and activities. Local libraries provide access to numerous education resources and programs. Goal PFS-10 Policies PFS-P10.1 Prioritize expansion of library services in Impacted Communities. PFS-P10.2 Locate and design library facilities to provide access to the greatest number of people. Ensure they are sited in areas with broadband internet and close to public transit. PFS-P10.3 Provide adequate funding for maintaining and improving library operations.* Actions PFS-A10.1 Develop library service and facility standards, identify standards not being met, and seek necessary resources to achieve those standards.* Goal PFS-10 Library services that meet the informational and social needs of county residents. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -35 PFS-A10.2 Adopt a library impact fee to ensure new development mitigates its impact on library services.* PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES ELEMENT PERFORMANCE MEASURES To track progress in achieving the major goals of this Element, every five years, the County will collect data to assess its performance against the following measures. Progress will be tracked relative to the prior performance review and the baseline year of 2024. Based on the findings from the five-year review, the County may adjust policies, actions, or the approach to implementing them to improve performance, as needed. • More dollars invested per capita on public improvements in Impacted Communities than in other parts of the county. • Fire suppression incidents responded to with the first engine company within four minutes or less, with the second engine company within six minutes or less, and with the initial full alarm assignment within eight minutes or less (or 10 minutes and 10 seconds if it involves a high-rise building), 90 percent of the time. Emergency medical service incidents responded to with a unit with a first responder within four minutes or less and with an advanced life support company within eight minutes or less, 90 percent of the time. • Increased percentage of homes within a 10-minute walk of a local park. • At least 3 acres of local parkland per every 1,000 residents. • Reduced number of illegal dumping incidents. 8 -36 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element This page intentionally left blank. From:Tanya Sundberg To:Lauren Willey Subject:FW: ENVISION CONTRA COSTA 2040 ~ Letter of Comment Date:Thursday, April 18, 2024 5:46:46 PM Attachments:image001.jpg image002.png TANYA SUNDBERG Principal she/her 510.848.3815 ext. 3390 | cell: 510.866.8336 From: Will Nelson <Will.Nelson@dcd.cccounty.us> Sent: Thursday, April 18, 2024 11:08 AM To: Tanya Sundberg <tsundberg@placeworks.com> Subject: FW: ENVISION CONTRA COSTA 2040 ~ Letter of Comment GP comment William R. Nelson Principal Planner Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development 30 Muir Road, Martinez, CA 94553 Phone (925) 655-2898 Web www.contracosta.ca.gov We’re planning for the future of Contra Costa County. Learn more and get involved at envisioncontracosta2040.org. This message was sent from a public e-mail system and may be subject to disclosure under the California Public Records Act. From: jagktac@goldstate.net <jagktac@goldstate.net> Sent: Tuesday, January 9, 2024 5:31 PM To: Will Nelson <Will.Nelson@dcd.cccounty.us> Cc: 'Carol Jensen' <cajensen@pacbell.net>; 'Lori Abreu' <loriabreu10@gmail.com>; igonzo@goldstate.net Subject: ENVISION CONTRA COSTA 2040 ~ Letter of Comment Dear Mr. Nelson I am a resident of Knightsen. I have lived in east county for close to 40 years. I have participated and studied Knightsen for most of these years. I can tell you through many votes, correspondences, opinions, and surveys that the Knightsen Residents are adamant on keeping Knightsen rural for small farms, history, equestrian use, etc. Also, Knightsen is the home to several endangered species such as the Burrowing Owl, the Swensen Hawk, Red Legged Frog, Grey Fox, and others small species. Farming in Knightsen produces Milk, Hay, Alfalfa, Honey, corn, tomatoes, asparagus, onions, and many other farm varieties of food for the public. I would like to comment on your brochure that Southern Pacific Railway is spoken of yet has been absent for 40 years in far east county. ATSF Railway, Sante Fe, and now BNSF Railway has run through Knightsen and East County for 125 years. It still operates today in East County. Also, the mention of historic places in the Brochure yet fails to note that Knightsen is on the Contra Costa Historical inventory. The Town is Historic and is recognized by the Board of Supervisors and Community Development. East Bay Regional Parks has and is in the process of recreating wetlands in Knightsen. For all these reasons and many more the 2040 vision should continue to protect Knightsen from rampant growth that would deteriorate the historic and natural habitat it sustains that is so important to Contra Costa County.. I am always available for discussion and or participation in this highly important future decision for Knightsen. I pride myself in owning the largest documentation and photographs from Knightsen’s start at the turn of the century to today. In Closing it is also imperative to maintain the “ Urban Limit Line “ as is. Several agencies and groups have attempted to circumvent this voter approved boundary. It’s strength and respect has assisted in controlling East County rampant growth. Thank you, Sincerely, John A Gonzales P.O. Box 369 Knightsen, Ca 94548 Cell 925-260-4728 JAGKTAC@Goldstate.net From:Email Request To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: Climate Action Plan comments Date:Wednesday, January 10, 2024 11:11:17 AM From: Marcia L. <marcia2799@hotmail.com> Sent: Wednesday, January 10, 2024 11:11:06 AM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Subject: Climate Action Plan comments You don't often get email from marcia2799@hotmail.com. Learn why this is important I want a moratorium in place to prevent more permit approvals for oil and gas wells while a feasibility study is conducted and concluded with recommendations. . please add a requirement for regular and periodic monitoring of existing oil and gas infrastructure by staff of methane and other dangerous emissions. Marcia Liberson, Walnut Creek CA 1 From:Email Request Sent:Monday, January 15, 2024 10:50 AM To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: Oil and gas drilling ________________________________________ From: Jennifer Russell <jenrae54@icloud.com> Sent: Monday, January 15, 2024 10:50:09 AM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request Subject: Oil and gas drilling [You don't often get email from jenrae54@icloud.com. Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ] I’m encouraged by the steps the country is taking to stop oil and gas drilling in my county. I’m writing to ask that a moratorium be placed on new drilling while the new policy is being put in place. Also, current research shows that a 3,200 foot setback is on the low end of a protective distance and should be increased. Lastly, please andd a requirement for regular, periodic monitoring of existing oil and gas infrastructure by County Hazardous Materials staff of methane and other dangerous emissions. Thank you for considering these comments. Jennifer Russell 178 Kendall Road Walnut Creek CA 94595 From: jagktac@goldstate.net <jagktac@goldstate.net> Sent: Tuesday, January 16, 2024 2:19 PM To: Will Nelson <Will.Nelson@dcd.cccounty.us> Subject: FW: ENVISION CONTRA COSTA 2040 ~ Letter of Comment ~ Added important information attached Dear Mr. Nelson, I would like to add a few more very important interests of far east county residents for the 2040 plan envision. First, Based on the constant flooding and traffic issues facing the unincorporate roads and the commute routes from cities through the ag core, I have attached a map of an alternate route for commerce traffic and commuters. The benefit for all would be enormous. While Oakley and Discovery Bay are growing rapidly and both depend on employment and revenue, linking them through the “ Bixler Bypass” (attached concept) people can traverse east to Hwy 4 and west to Hwy 4 and Hwy 160 without cutting through farm lands with substandard roads. This allows growth and preservation of farmlands, wetlands, and rural use to work together. At the same time by raising the bypass elevation and creating a sort of levee can also collect and convey the flood waters that plague the Ag Core and Knightsen for the last 100 years ( I have an extensive photo collection and map collection dating many years back for far east county). This concept can be paid for through several sources such as Clean Water money, Flood Money, Levee Money, Road funds, and Development funds. Federal, State and local funds are available to joint venture this future solution to preservation and orderly growth for the East end of the County. Second, While East Bay Regional Parks is playing a larger role in Far East County, the Equestrian community along with cycling, and trails are in dire need to share with urban and rural life. The map attached was generated through meetings and work shop groups a few years back. All that is needed is a landbank lead agency to carry the operation and maintenance. The equestrian community in Contra Costa generates several millions of dollars in revenue for the county. Working together with the urban growth while preservation is kept, can only provide quality of life improvements to all residents of the County. Please add these documents to your comments and files for consideration. I am confident thinking through the suggestions will result in a win-win for everyone’s vision 2040. Thank you again, and feel free to contact me or access the information I have collected in the past 40 years. John A Gonzales PO Bx 369 Knightsen, Ca. 94548 925-260-4728 Dear Mr. Nelson I am a resident of Knightsen. I have lived in east county for close to 40 years. I have participated and studied Knightsen for most of these years. I can tell you through many votes, correspondences, opinions, and surveys that the Knightsen Residents are adamant on keeping Knightsen rural for small farms, history, equestrian use, etc. Also, Knightsen is the home to several endangered species such as the Burrowing Owl, the Swensen Hawk, Red Legged Frog, Grey Fox, and others small species. Farming in Knightsen produces Milk, Hay, Alfalfa, Honey, corn, tomatoes, asparagus, onions, and many other farm varieties of food for the public. I would like to comment on your brochure that Southern Pacific Railway is spoken of yet has been absent for 40 years in far east county. ATSF Railway, Sante Fe, and now BNSF Railway has run through Knightsen and East County for 125 years. It still operates today in East County. Also, the mention of historic places in the Brochure yet fails to note that Knightsen is on the Contra Costa Historical inventory. The Town is Historic and is recognized by the Board of Supervisors and Community Development. East Bay Regional Parks has and is in the process of recreating wetlands in Knightsen. For all these reasons and many more the 2040 vision should continue to protect Knightsen from rampant growth that would deteriorate the historic and natural habitat it sustains that is so important to Contra Costa County.. I am always available for discussion and or participation in this highly important future decision for Knightsen. I pride myself in owning the largest documentation and photographs from Knightsen’s start at the turn of the century to today. In Closing it is also imperative to maintain the “ Urban Limit Line “ as is. Several agencies and groups have attempted to circumvent this voter approved boundary. It’s strength and respect has assisted in controlling East County rampant growth. Thank you, Sincerely, John A Gonzales P.O. Box 369 Knightsen, Ca 94548 Cell 925-260-4728 JAGKTAC@Goldstate.net 1 From:Email Request Sent:Monday, January 22, 2024 1:54 PM To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: Keller Canyon ________________________________________ From: Rosa Fallon <rosafallon@gmail.com> Sent: Monday, January 22, 2024 1:53:23 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request Cc: action@sunflower-alliance.org Subject: Re: Keller Canyon [You don't often get email from rosafallon@gmail.com. Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ] Sent from my iPad > On Jan 22, 2024, at 1:18 PM, Rosa Fallon <rosafallon@gmail.com> wrote: > > > Please keep the landfill away from housing. > > From:Email Request To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: Climate Action Plan comments Date:Monday, January 22, 2024 7:21:58 AM From: Susanna M <susannamarshland@gmail.com> Sent: Monday, January 22, 2024 7:21:20 AM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Subject: Climate Action Plan comments You don't often get email from susannamarshland@gmail.com. Learn why this is important Hi Plan authors and decision-makers, I was pleased to learn that the creation of a new land use ordinance to prohibit development of new oil and gas wells and phase out existing oil and gas well operations is (hopefully) in our future. I hope that a moratorium on new permit approvals can be put in place as you develop this new ordinance. I know new policies take a while to draft, approve, and enact, and hope that you will do your best to maximize protection for Contra Costa and neighboring communities from the health and safety dangers of oil and gas drilling in the meantime. Setbacks from wells are good, and larger setbacks are better, but a ban would be best and I encourage you to take every possible step in that direction. To hold ourselves accountable to protecting local health and safety, I encourage county staff and regulators to engage in regular, periodic monitoring of methane and other dangerous emissions at existing oil and gas infrastructure. Thank you for your tireless work to pursue a clean energy future that is healthy for all our residents. Susanna Marshland, 49 Avon Rd, Kensington, CA 94707 I live and work on unceded Lisjan Ohlone land in the territory of Huchiun. As a non-Native person, I pay Shuumi voluntary land tax. Fr om: Sent: To: Subj ect: Atta chme nts: Em ail Requ est Tuesd ay, Jan u ary 23, 2024 11 :3 1 A M ad van cep lanning@dcd.ccco un t y.us; Tanya Sun db e rg; La u ren Wi ll ey FW : Co mments on En vi sio n Co ntra Cos ta 2040 Co mments on envision Contra Co st a 2040.pd f From: Bill Boaman <bbo aman@msn .com > Sen t: Tuesday , January 23, 20 2'1 11 :3 1:01 AM (UTC-08 :00) Pacific Time (US & Ca n ada) To: Email Reques t <email@envisi onco ntracos ta2040 .org> Cc : Will.Nels on@ dcd .cco unty .us <Will.N els on@dcd .cco unty.us> Subj ect : Comments on Envisi on Co nt ra Cos ta 2040 I You don't of ten get em ail fro m bboa m an@ m sn .co m. l ea rn wh y t hi s i s importan t Please see attached Commen t Ca rd . I have lived across the st ree t from t he proposed 5 acre d evelopment s it e since 1981 . Since t ha t t ime t hey have bu ilt one apa rt ment comp lex a fter anot her because of t he proximity to PH BA RT . For examp l e to name a few , Avalon Wal nu t Ridg e, Bay Lan d ing Apa rt ments , Cogg ins Sq uare , Hanover, Hab it for H uman ity (s t ill no t comp le t ed ). The bu ild ing of t hese hig h d ens ity d eve lopmen ts has cause d en dl ess d isrup tion in t he ne ig hborhood , as some have ta ken years to bu ild . I un d erstan d tha t the Coun ty now wan ts to approve hig h d ensity hous ing on t he fi ve acre parcel d irec tly across from my prope rty an d t hat be g inn ing in 2025 , t he Envision Con t ra Costa 2040 General Pl an w ill d icta t e what d evelopers can bu ild . There are no curbs an d g utters on an a lread y narrow s t ree t w it h a blind corner. Where they have bu ilt curbs , the apa rt men t dwell ers park on t he curb 24/7 an d t hey don 't even l eave for t he s t ree t sweepers . Traffic is a lso a prob lem because s i nce t he curbs are always fu ll. Delivery drivers such as Amazon . Door Dash . UP S, Fed Ex t hen doub l e park to make t he ir del iveries . I moved to t his area because of t he t rees, spacious l ots , an d t he fee l of t he coun t ry se tting . It was t he charm an d character of t he area . Now , you wan t me to wa k e up an d loo k ou t t he w ind ow to a fi ve s tory bu i lding, w it h cars t hat l ine t he curb an d t enan ts ou ts id e loit ering on t he s id ewa lk smo king c ig arettes an d d el ivery cars an d t ruc ks block i ng access to t he road . Just last wee k a ll four t ires were s to l en off a car park ed at t he curb i n fron t of t he ex is t ing apa rt ments a t t he en d of our s tree t. I be li eve t he charm t his area has w ill be d imi n ished w it h t he hig h d ens ity of 60 un its per acre. I am not even comfo rtab le w it h 18-30 un its per acre. How many apart men t comp lexes in t he area w i ll be enou g h? Previous d eve lopmen ts have re qu ired access from newl y bu ilt roads ; w ill t his be t he case on Cherry Lane, or w i ll access be g ran t ed from Cherry Lane? I t hin k every effo rt should be mad e to preserve t he rema in i ng all uri ng charact er of Cherry Lane . Than k you for your cons id era t ion . W ill iam E. Beaman 2970 Cherry Lane Walnu t Creek , CA 94597 Se nt fro m Ma il fo r W indows 2 1/23/2024 William E. Boaman 2970 Cherry Lane, Walnut Creek, CA 94597-2115 (925) 933-9336 / bboaman@msn.com I have lived across the street from the proposed 5 acre development site since 1981. Since that time they have built one apartment complex after another because of the proximity to PH BART. For example to name a few, Avalon Walnut Ridge, Bay Landing Apartments, Coggins Square, Hanover, Habitat for Humanity (still not completed). The building of these high density developments has caused endess disruption in the neighborhood, as some have taken years to build. I understand that the County now wants to approve high density housing on the five acre parcel directly across from my property and that beginning in 2025, the Envision Contra Costa 2040 General Plan will dictate what developers can build. There are no curbs and gutters on an already narrow street with a blind corner. Where they have built curbs, the apartment dwellers park on the curb 24/7 and they don't even leave for the street sweepers. Traffic is also a problem because since the curbs are always full. Delivery drivers such as Amazon, Door Dash, UPS, FedEx then double park to make their deliveries. I moved to this area because of the trees, spacious lots, and the feel of the country setting. It was the charm and character of the area. Now, you want me to wake up and look out the window to a five story building, with cars that line the curb and tenants outside loitering on the sidewalk smoking cigarettes and delivery cars and trucks blocking access to the road. Just last week all four tires were stolen off a car parked at the curb in front of the existing apartments at the end of our street. I believe the charm this area has will be diminished with the high density of 60 units per acre. I am not even comfortable with 18-30 units per acre. How many apartment complexes in the area will be enough? Previous developments have required access from newly built roads; will this be the case on Cherry Lane, or will access be granted from Cherry Lane? I think every effort should be made to preserve the remaining alluring character of Cherry Lane. Thank you for your consideration. 1 From:Email Request Sent:Friday, January 26, 2024 3:28 PM To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: General Plan & Climate Plan Comments - Extended Deadline? ________________________________________ From: Heather Rosmarin <hrosmarin@mac.com> Sent: Friday, January 26, 2024 3:27:57 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request Subject: General Plan & Climate Plan Comments - Extended Deadline? [You don't often get email from hrosmarin@mac.com. Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ] Dear Envision Contra Costa Team - I received an email from Supervisor Carlson stating that the comment period has been extended on the draft General Plan and Climate Plan. Could you please let me know the extended deadline? (I don’t see it on the website) Thank you! Heather Rosmarin Co-Founder, Friends of Pleasant Hill Creeks From:Email Request To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: Comment on BOS agenda item D.4 Date:Friday, January 26, 2024 2:47:22 PM From: Kevin Burke <kevin@burke.dev> Sent: Friday, January 26, 2024 2:47:02 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: clerkoftheboard@cob.cccounty.us <clerkoftheboard@cob.cccounty.us>; Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Subject: Comment on BOS agenda item D.4 You don't often get email from kevin@burke.dev. Learn why this is important Hi, I'd love to hear some discussion from the Board of the financial impacts from the 2045 General Plan, which put a disproportionate amount of the County's rezoned land in low income communities of color with high levels of pollution. As an example, most of the single family areas in North Richmond, adjacent to the Chevron refinery, are being rezoned for 30 homes per acre. Alamo, Diablo, Blackhawk, and the San Miguel CDP mostly have 3 units per acre single family zones. Increasing zoned capacity in areas with lower land values means that redevelopment contributes fewer tax dollars to the County per acre than more dense development in a wealthy area. Further, these areas typically have higher levels of ER visits for heart attacks and asthma. Babies are more likely to be born underweight, which can cause lifelong learning problems - another increased source of expense - in addition to health problems. Due to asthma, the students miss more days of school due to health problems, and are more likely to drop out before graduating high school, which can affect their lifetime earning potential. I can speak from experience here - I had (fortunately, mild) asthma as a child in Alamo. If I lived next door to the County's hazardous waste facility, it would likely have been a lot worse - I would probably have missed a lot more school due to health problems. I might not have grown to be six feet tall. More people should have the opportunity that I had. Increasing the zoned density in unpolluted areas - in greater quantities than currently proposed in the General Plan - would allow more residents to live in a place where they are relatively less bothered by health problems, which will reduce the County's exposure to pollution related hospital bills and school underperformance. Because these areas have higher land values, this would also increase the amount of property tax revenue available to reinvest in environmental or social justice programs. Thank you, Kevin Burke 1 From:Email Request Sent:Monday, January 29, 2024 2:39 PM To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: Draft 2045 General Plan ________________________________________ From: Linda Waldroup <lindawaldroup@yahoo.com> Sent: Monday, January 29, 2024 2:38:45 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request Subject: Draft 2045 General Plan [You don't often get email from lindawaldroup@yahoo.com. Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ] I wish to voice my support for: ***Banning all new oil and gas drilling and phasing out existing sites ***Increasing the required setback between wells and sensitive areas such as schools and hospitals ***Better monitoring of toxic emissions such as methane As a longtime docent at the John Muir National Historic Site in Martinez I have welcomed many Contra Costa County residents. They come to the site to get closer to the life of our nation’s most prominent conservationist. They care deeply about their environment, and as a mother and a grandmother, I worry much about the future. We must take measures to protect the climate! Sincerely, Linda Waldroup, Walnut Creek Sent from my iPad 1 From:Email Request Sent:Tuesday, January 30, 2024 5:43 PM To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: Contra Costa Country Climate Action Plan + 2045 General Plan From: Lucas Richard <lucasrcarvajal@gmail.com> Sent: Tuesday, January 30, 2024 5:42:43 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Subject: Contra Costa Country Climate Action Plan + 2045 General Plan Hello! I am reaching out to thank the County staff for your commitment to the ordinance calling for a fossil fuel drilling ban and phase out. Additionally, I would like to call on Contra Costa county to continue this commitment with a moratorium to prevent permit approval as the new ordinance is developed. Regarding the actual details of the document, I want to remind staff that the 3,200 foot setback from drilling sites is at the lower end of the range of distances that reduce harmful health impacts and call upon them to review this distance and extend it. Finally, regular, periodic monitoring of methane in the county should be enforced to better determine how the existing oil and gas infrastructure is impacting public health. I appreciate the commitment shown for climate action and look forward to seeing further action in the future! Much appreciated, Lucas You don't often get email from lucasrcarvajal@gmail.com. Learn why this is important 2 1 From:Email Request Sent:Tuesday, January 30, 2024 6:27 PM To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan From: Stephanie Stewart <steph.stewart02@gmail.com> Sent: Tuesday, January 30, 2024 6:27:13 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Subject: Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan To Whom It May Concern: I first wanted to thank you for your work to include the prohibition of new oil and gas wells and phase out of existing operations in the climate action plan. In line with this commitment, there are several other items that would build upon this work to en sure the climate action plan best serves Contra Costa County residents. While the new land ordinances are developed, Contra Costa County should issue a moratorium on permit approvals to ensure that no soon-to-be-stranded assets are needlessly developed. Additionally, the 3200’ setbacks should at least be increased, as 3200’ is at the lower end of the distance required to avoid harmful health impacts. The only assured way to protect the health of residents is to stop drilling entirely, but at the very least periodic monitoring of damaging emissions originating from existing oil and gas facilities should be mandated. Best, Stephanie Stewart You don't often get email from steph.stewart02@gmail.com. Learn why this is important From:Email Request To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: comment on climate action plan Date:Tuesday, January 30, 2024 5:55:25 PM From: nancycampbell323 <nancycampbell323@proton.me> Sent: Tuesday, January 30, 2024 5:55:10 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Subject: comment on climate action plan You don't often get email from nancycampbell323@proton.me. Learn why this is important Hello Contra Costa County staff! Thank you for working to protect us from the health hazards of oil & gas production. As a California resident in an unincorporated area of the state, and I am thrilled you are setting the precedent of undertaking a feasibility study, creating a new land use ordinance to prohibit development of new oil and gas wells, and phasing out existing oil and gas well operations. However I believe you can and should do more. For example: + Put a moratorium in place to prevent any more permit approvals while the new ordinance is developed. + Set a ban on oil and gas drilling, period! But at VERY least, increase the setbacks beyond 3200 feet. Why? A 2021 Stanford study found negative health impacts within a 2.5 mile radius from oil and gas facilities. The state investigatory panel that declared 3,200′ setbacks the minimum protective distance also found that the most health-protective approach is actually no drilling at all. + Increase emission monitoring!! Please add a requirement for regular, periodic monitoring of methane and other dangerous emissions at existing oil and gas infrastructure. Thank you for helping us realize a safe and just future for all. Best, N From:Email Request To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: comment on climate action plan Date:Tuesday, January 30, 2024 5:47:16 PM From: Elliot Helman <muzungu_x@yahoo.com> Sent: Tuesday, January 30, 2024 5:47:06 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Subject: comment on climate action plan You don't often get email from muzungu_x@yahoo.com. Learn why this is important thanks for your work on protecting our environment. while the plan is a good start, i encourage you to go further. for example: 3,200-foot setback from drilling sites is on the lower end of the range of distances that could reduce the harmful health—and quality of life—impacts from toxic emissions and exposures. we need a requirement for regular, periodic monitoring of methane and other dangerous emissions at existing oil and gas infrastructure. while i do not live in contra costa county, this is a concern for me because ultimately, we all drink the same water & breathe the same air. thanks. elliot helman san francisco 94158 From:Email Request To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: Comments on Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan Date:Tuesday, January 30, 2024 5:49:09 PM From: Carl Mills <hwayhouse@gmail.com> Sent: Tuesday, January 30, 2024 5:48:49 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Subject: Comments on Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan You don't often get email from hwayhouse@gmail.com. Learn why this is important Please prohibit development of new oil and gas wells and phase out existing oil and gas operations. I encourage the County to implement the Climate Action Plan described at Draft Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan 2024 Update | Contra Costa County (konveio.com) Carl Mills From:Email Request To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: Comments on Contra Costa County’s Climate Action Plan Date:Tuesday, January 30, 2024 5:50:32 PM From: Dennis O <the_dent2001@yahoo.com> Sent: Tuesday, January 30, 2024 5:50:19 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Subject: Comments on Contra Costa County’s Climate Action Plan You don't often get email from the_dent2001@yahoo.com. Learn why this is important Hi, I support your work on the ordinance calling for a drilling ban and phase out. Thank you very much. Please build on the good work by preventing any approvals from going forward while the new ordinance is developed. Another change that I would like to see is an increase in the setback distance since the latest research indicates that 3,200 feet is on the lower end of the safe distance range. Finally, all the rules in the world won’t make a difference if there is no monitoring and enforcement. Please add a requirement for independent monitoring of methane and other dangerous emissions on a regular basis at existing oil and gas sites paid for by the site operators. Thanks, Dennis From:Email Request To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: comment on Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan Date:Tuesday, January 30, 2024 5:49:16 PM From: Susan Sepanik <ssepanik@gmail.com> Sent: Tuesday, January 30, 2024 5:48:55 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Subject: comment on Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan You don't often get email from ssepanik@gmail.com. Learn why this is important Hello, I would like to put a comment in about the Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan. I much appreciate the effort to undertake a “feasibility study” and to create a new land use ordinance to prohibit development of new oil and gas wells and phase out existing oil and gas well operations. Thank you for this effort to ban drilling. I would love to see a moratorium to prevent future permits. I also appreciate the work toward better safety regulations and think moving in this direction is very important. Thank you for your consideration, Susan Sepanik Oakland, CA 1 From:Email Request Sent:Tuesday, January 30, 2024 5:51 PM To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: Some comments on Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan From: pavle cajic <cajicpaja@gmail.com> Sent: Tuesday, January 30, 2024 5:50:31 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Subject: Some comments on Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan To the staff at Contra Costa County, Hello, my name is Pavle, I am a resident of San Francisco. I recently reviewed the draft versions of Contra Costa County's Climate Action Plan and 2045 General Plan, and I appreciate the opportunity for community input. Firstly, thank you for the commitment to the proposed ordinance calling for a drilling ban and phase-out. To protect communities adjacent to the oil fields during the development of this plan, you must implement a moratorium on permit approvals until the new policy is thoroughly developed and implemented. I would also like to see regular monitoring of methane and other dangerous emissions at existing oil and gas infrastructure. This is crucial for ensuring the ongoing safety and environmental impact of such facilities. I’ll be submitting these comments through the provided platform, but I wanted to email you directly about them as well. Thank you for your dedication to creating sustainable and safe policies for our community. Best regards, Pavle Cajic Sent from Mail for Windows You don't often get email from cajicpaja@gmail.com. Learn why this is important From:Email Request To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: Comment on CCC Climate Action Plan Date:Tuesday, January 30, 2024 5:48:42 PM From: Ellen Beans <ellen.beans@gmail.com> Sent: Tuesday, January 30, 2024 5:48:22 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Subject: re: Comment on CCC Climate Action Plan You don't often get email from ellen.beans@gmail.com. Learn why this is important Thanks for all you have put in this plan for the better health and safety of everyone. How about putting out a moratorium on any further permit approvals until the new ordinance is completed? Ellen Beans, Moraga Ellen Beans 925-376-7306 From:Email Request To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: Comment on Contra Costa’s new Drilling Policy Date:Tuesday, February 6, 2024 7:47:27 PM From: Adam Joselson <ajoselson@gmail.com> Sent: Tuesday, February 6, 2024 7:47:09 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Subject: Comment on Contra Costa’s new Drilling Policy You don't often get email from ajoselson@gmail.com. Learn why this is important Dear Staff, Thank you for your commitment to this ordinance calling for a drilling ban and phase out. We want to see a moratorium in place to prevent any more permit approvals while the new ordinance is developed. Communities adjacent to Contra Costa oil fields must be fully protected while new policy is worked up. There’s an implicit acknowledgement of the health and safety dangers of oil and gas drilling with the inclusion of 3,200′ setbacks, but we would like to see even stronger protection in place. Current research shows that a 3,200-foot setback from drilling sites is on the lower end of the range of distances that could reduce the harmful health impacts. The most health- protective approach is actually no drilling at all. Current oil and gas production in the County is woefully under-monitored by state and local air regulators, leaving Contra Costa residents at risk. Please add a requirement for regular, periodic monitoring of methane and other dangerous emissions at existing oil and gas infrastructure. Thank you, Adam J 1 From:Email Request Sent:Monday, February 12, 2024 4:33 PM To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: County Envirormental Plan From: Marcia L. <marcia2799@hotmail.com> Sent: Monday, February 12, 2024 4:32:50 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Subject: County Envirormental Plan Greenhouse gases are very under monitored as described in the county's plan . Please change that!!! Marcia Liberson, Walnut Creek 94595 You don't often get email from marcia2799@hotmail.com. Learn why this is important 1 From:Email Request Sent:Monday, February 12, 2024 12:28 PM To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: requesting ddition to CCCClimate Action Plan ________________________________________ From: Elizabeth Chosak <mschosak@comcast.net> Sent: Monday, February 12, 2024 12:27:46 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request Subject: requesting ddition to CCCClimate Action Plan [You don't often get email from mschosak@comcast.net. Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ] Please add a requirement that regular and periodic monitoring be required at all existing oil and gas structures of methane and other polluting gases to the current CCC Climate Action Plan. Thank you. Elizabeth Chosak 4243 Terra Granada Drive #1B Walnut Creek, CA 94595 From:Email Request To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: Monitoring of emissions Date:Monday, February 12, 2024 6:39:46 PM From: Linda Ostro <lostro@pacbell.net> Sent: Monday, February 12, 2024 6:39:32 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Subject: RE: Monitoring of emissions You don't often get email from lostro@pacbell.net. Learn why this is important Oil and gas production in the Contra Costa County is woefully under monitored by state and local air regulators, which leaves CC County residents at great risk of serious health effects and reduced longevity. Please add a requirement for regular, periodic monitoring of methane and other dangerous emissions at existing oil and gas infrastructure. I am worried about all citizens but especially the lungs of our children that are not yet fully developed and people with existing health conditions that put them at great risk for serious illness. Thank you! Linda Ostro A very concerned grandmother Western States Petroleum Association 1415 L Street, Suite 900, Sacramento, CA 95814 925.708.8679 wspa.org Robert Brown Senior Director, Bay Area & CA Regional Affairs Mr. Will Nelson and Ms. Jody London sent via email Advance Planning – Contra Costa County 30 Muir Road Martinez, CA 94553 Re: WSPA Comments on the 2045 Contra Costa General Plan and Climate Action Plan The Western States Petroleum Association (WSPA) is a non-profit trade association representing companies that explore for, produce, refine, transport and market petroleum, petroleum products, natural gas, renewable diesel and other energy supplies in California, Arizona, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington. Our members in the Bay Area have four facilities that operate in Contra Costa County. We appreciate County staff keeping us informed – including a recent meeting in December where you shared the highlights of the draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan and Climate Action Plan (the Plans). Given the scope and economic impact of our operations, we are keenly interested in the direction of this plan as it moves through the approval process this year. California is the third largest gasoline consuming market on the planet, behind China and the United States. California is also the largest consumer of jet fuel among the 50 states. Two refineries located in the County provide virtually all the jet fuel for our region’s airports. The average annual wage of an oil and gas worker is more than $80,000 and nearly 50% of oil and gas workers are racially and ethnically diverse. The last available data (pre-2020) shows that the Bay Area manages about 44% of the refining capacity in the state; creates more than $3.4 billion in state and local tax revenue; more than $50 billion in overall economic contribution; and supports more than 80,000 jobs in the region. (LAEDC 2019 Report Oil & Gas in CA). & Gas in While WSPA recognizes that the Plans do not directly propose policies ordering refineries in the County to cease operation, in many places throughout the proposals there is reference to transition away from the use of energy dense fossil fuels. Given this, we question how the Plans account for the ongoing maintenance and upkeep of refinery facilities while signaling to investors and energy providers that they are not part of the vision? The Plans assume a non - operational status but do not recognize the facilities still being productive. Will Nelson/Jody London February 12, 2024 Page 2 Western States Petroleum Association 1415 L Street, Suite 900, Sacramento, CA 95814 925.708.8679 wspa.org Given the state and Bay Area population’s reliance on a safe, reliable, sustainable, and affordable energy source that the County’s refineries provide, the Plans should acknowledge a future in which these facilities do still exist – albeit with a diverse fuel mix. The policies throughout the Plans which focus on transportation, environmental justice, and land use would directly impact the products our industry produces and the market demands. The Plans’ assumptions limit innovation that could deliver a diverse fuel mix to all socio-economic sectors. WSPA welcomes the references to “partnering with educational institutions and programs, unions and trade associations to support job-skills training and recruitment from the local workforce.” We also appreciate “enhancing Contra Costa County’s success as an economic hub depends on retaining, supporting, and attracting a diverse range of businesses that will sustain the local economy despite changing market forces.” We would like to know when the County will provide a socio-economic analysis of the policies laid out in the General Plan. Has the Department of Conservation Development conducted an economic analysis on what is being proposed? It is critical to understand the real impacts the Plans will have on members of lower income communities who cannot afford an electric car, or cannot retrofit their homes/rental units for charging or electric appliance upgrades. Further, the terms “transition” and “just transition” are referenced throughout the Plans. We request specific examples of industries that could replace the fossil fuel industry at scale, especially as it relates to the size of the workforce, career salary expectations, tax revenue, and necessary consumer products and services. In addition, we would like to better understand how the Climate Action Plan will be enforced. This may require a better explanation of the correlation between the General Plan and the Climate Action Plan. For example, what authority does the Climate Action Plan have? Are the Plans recommending any changes as it relates to the zoning of refineries in the County? Will the Plans make it harder for refineries to invest in their facilities? Our industry in this region is among the most regulated in the world. Nobody refines the fuel cleaner and safer than the Bay Area and California. Our energy landscape is evolving and incorporating the ingenuity and innovation with renewable diesel and other alternative energy to complement traditional fossil fuels which will be in demand for generations to come. From the regulatory side, our industry has more than 30 entities at the state, local, regional, and federal level that regulate our operations. Compliance with those ever-changing and complex laws, rules and regulations is of paramount importance with our thousands of employees, contractors, and skilled trade workers in the region. Better understanding the enforcement and compliance implications of these Plans is critical. Finally, the draft General Plan directly calls out petroleum refining and other industries as “highly polluting” in several locations. In reality, in comparison to tail pipe emissions, wildfire emissions and other sources, refineries are a smaller fraction of total emissions output. WSPA welcomes the opportunity to work with the County on language that is more reflective of that reality. Will Nelson/Jody London February 12, 2024 Page 3 Western States Petroleum Association 1415 L Street, Suite 900, Sacramento, CA 95814 925.708.8679 wspa.org Thank you for considering our comments. We look forward to continuing the dialogue with you both to address our questions and concerns. If you have any questions, I can be reached at 925-708-8679 or bbrown@wspa.org. Respectfully, il &o Industries at Risk – Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation on behalf of WSPA *2019 Report Oil & Gas in California: The Industry, Its Economic Contribution and User Industries at Risk – Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation *2019 Report Oil & Gas in California: The Industry, Its Economic Contribution and User Industries at Risk” *2019 Report Oil & Gas in California: The Industry, Its Economic Contribution and User Industries at os Angeles County Economic Development Corporation on behalf of WSPAWSPA From:Email Request To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: Comment on General Plan draft update Date:Friday, February 16, 2024 8:43:14 PM Attachments:image.png image.png From: Kevin Burke <kevin@burke.dev> Sent: Friday, February 16, 2024 8:42:29 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Subject: Comment on General Plan draft update You don't often get email from kevin@burke.dev. Learn why this is important I am encouraged by the proposed rezoning of a vacant 1.5 acre parcel near Livorna Road and 680 for RM level density. This site presents more than a few challenges, however - it has a pretty steep grade which may prevent utilizing the entire site. The real estate materials for the site are marketing it to buyers who want to build only one house, instead of 20. Also, the current access is a road between a preschool's classrooms and its playground; access from Livorna Road would require substantial amount of grading. There are few valid grounds to deny a project on health and safety grounds under the Housing Accountability Act, but "large number of cars through a preschool" may be one of them. Still, for all its shortcomings, this site is still way better, on equity grounds, than the County's far more aggressive rezonings of single family areas in locations that have more pollution, are located further from job centers, and have worse schools. I just wish this wasn't the only site in Alamo the County was considering for additional density. For example, there are quite a few large single family lots on flat ground, within walking distance of Alamo Plaza and the Iron Horse Trail that can easily accommodate additional car-light density. image.png Or this large vacant parcel on Stone Valley Road where you would not need to drive through a preschool or do a substantial amount of grading to access the site. image.png Best, Kevin Burke From:Tanya Sundberg To:Lauren Willey Subject:FW: Question about 2045 General Plan Date:Friday, July 19, 2024 12:41:33 PM TANYA SUNDBERG Principal she/her 510.848.3815 ext. 3390 | cell: 510.866.8336 From: Soheila Bana <soheilabana@gmail.com> Sent: Saturday, February 17, 2024 10:03 AM To: Will Nelson <Will.Nelson@dcd.cccounty.us> Cc: Tom Lang <tlangesmac.cc@gmail.com>; George Cleveland <gdc82366@yahoo.com>; Mikki Norris <mikkinorris@comcast.net>; Melinda V McLain <melinda@the-good-table.org>; Shasa Curl <Shasa_Curl@ci.richmond.ca.us>; Soheila Bana <Soheila_Bana@ci.richmond.ca.us>; Sue Boudreau <sueboudreau2004@yahoo.com> Subject: Re: Question about 2045 General Plan This email originated from outside of the City's email system. Do not open links or attachments from untrusted sources. Hi Will, Thank you for your email. My goal in advocating for comprehensive maps is to foster collaboration between the City and County in El Sobrante Valley. Effective planning for amenities like bike paths requires coordination across all jurisdictions involved, as routes often traverse both City and unincorporated areas. As a Richmond City Councilmember, I've requested our City Manager, who is cc'd here, to depict unincorporated areas on our city maps, possibly with hachures or distinct colors, to fully represent our shared landscape. Would you consider this inclusive mapping approach as a foundational step towards strengthening cooperation between the City of Richmond and the County? This could significantly enhance safety and quality of life for all residents in the El Sobrante Valley, including those in unincorporated zones. Regards, Soheila Bana Chair, West Contra Costa Fire Safe Council (510) 779-7280 WCCFireSafe.org 1 From:Jody London <Jody.London@dcd.cccounty.us>Sent:Monday, February 26, 2024 12:06 PMTo:Tammy Seale; Eli Krispi; Jessica Robbins; Lauren Willey; Tanya Sundberg; Joanna JansenCc:John Kopchik; Will Nelson; Demian Hardman; Daniel Barrios; Maureen Toms; Jason Crapo; Nicole Shimizu; Adam Scarbrough; Emily GrothSubject:FW: Public Comment on Item #6 on 2/26/24 Commission Agenda.Hi all, The comment below, while directed at this evening’s Sustainability Commission meeting, is a de facto comment on the CAP. So I suggest we include this in the file. Jody London Sustainability Coordinator Contra Costa County (925) 655-2815 (office)(925) 434-3250 (mobile) www.contracosta.ca.gov/6780/Sustainability翼翽罦罥耱耲耳罃罄罅罆罇罈Three easy ways to track the exciting work we’re doing in Contra Costa County: 1. To follow the General Plan and Climate Action Plan updates, sign up at EnvisionContraCosta2040.org.2. To follow the County’s Sustainability Commission, please visit the County’s Notify Me page.3. To follow the Board of Supervisors Sustainability Committee,Subscribe HereFrom: Denice A Dennis <deniceadennismph@gmail.com> Sent: Monday, February 26, 2024 10:06 AM To: Luz Gomez <luzgomez000@gmail.com>; DCD Sustainability <Sustainability@dcd.cccounty.us>; Jody London <Jody.London@dcd.cccounty.us> Subject: Public Comment on Item #6 on 2/26/24 Commission Agenda. To: Luz Gomez, Chair, Contra Costa Sustainability Commission and all Commission Members A sincere thank you to each of the Commissioners for the service you are providing to the residents and workers of the County. One of the three “responsibilities” of the Commission is to “Provide Advice to staff and the Board on successful implementation of the Climate Action Plan, including suggestions on how that work can be performed more efficiently and effectively”. This work contributes to the health and safety of people throughout the region. There are several “high level” concerns with the current draft of the County’s Climate Action Plan related to your mission. This letter focuses on a few of these concerns. 1)Various Implementation and Performance Targets are contained in three separate sections of the document. In order to convey all implementation activities and performance targets, we strongly recommend that Chapter 4 and Chapter 5 Strategies, Chapter 6 2024 CAP Implementation 2 Matrix, and Appendix B Key Assumptions and Performance Targets Sections, are all (minimally) cross-referenced. This would convey the fuller picture of the plan’s strategies, what actually needs to be accomplished to reduce the stated greenhouse gas emissions, and how success will be measured, for all of the community, including residents, staff, Commissioners and the Board of Supervisors. As currently presented, the GHG Reduction Strategies described in Chapters 4 and 5 of the plan are also listed in a completely separate document, Chapter 6, 2024 CAP IMPLEMENTATION MATRIX, which includes additional information. Actual “Key Assumptions” and “Performance Measures” required to achieve the projected GHG emissions reductions assumed for each strategy are embedded in yet another section of the document within Appendix B, beginning on page 244 of the PDF. According to the narrative contained in Appendix B, the Appendix includes the “Key Assumptions made about the strategy’s performance, such as the level of community participation required to achieve the specified reductions by 2030 and 2045 ”. It also contains the “Performance Targets, which are quantifiable metrics about the projected level of success the strategy must meet to achieve the specified reductions by 2030 and 2045”. Both the Key Assumptions and Performance Targets are absolutely necessary in evaluating the success of each GHG reduction strategy listed. Yet they are contained in an Appendix, and are separated from the “Key Performance Metrics” in the Implementation Plan. 2. The 2024 CAP and Carbon Neutrality Section of the CAP (page 104 of Plan/page 122 PDF) contains other areas of concern: a) The stated possible inability to reach GHG reduction targets in line with the state by 2045 with tools available now. We are in an urgent situation—The County needs to prioritize what we can do to move aggressively on GHG emissions reductions in buildings, waste and transportation and just transition in order to close the gap in the plan. The science shows that have what is needed to do so--we can not rely on hoped-for technological fixes. b) Reliance on “uncertain” carbon sequestration for results. Referenced in the section on The CAP and Carbon Neutrality (p104) are uncertainties around carbon sequestration, storage and carbon offsets as means to reach reduction goals. Industrial carbon capture and storage should not be considered as a possible future solution for GHG reduction in the County. It is expensive, and is unproven in its ability to actually reduce emissions. c) Using offsets is another false approach that only consigns our impacted communities to continued pollution based upon offsets that often cannot be proven to be truly a new reduction in carbon. The plan needs to prioritize direct GHG emission reductions that also improves air quality for the areas of the county with the worst cumulative air pollution. Toward a healthy and safe future for our children and grandchildren, 3 Denice A. Dennis, MPH 1000 Grandmothers for Future Generations 1 From:Email Request Sent:Tuesday, February 27, 2024 12:14 PM To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: County Drilling Policy - Thanks and keep up the good work! From: susanrharper@comcast.net <susanrharper@comcast.net> Sent: Tuesday, February 27, 2024 12:13:42 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Subject: County Drilling Policy - Thanks and keep up the good work! Thank you for your commitment to the drilling ordinance…I and many would like to see a moratorium in place so there will be no more permit approvals as the new ordinance is developed. It is imperative that communities adjacent to the oil fields in Contra Costa County be fully protected while the new policy is set up. I am especially pleased that the common sense requirement of 3200 ft setbacks, however as we know 3200 ft is on the lower end of the range from harmful health threats, quality of life, and impacts from toxic emissions and exposures. A 2021 Stanford study found negative health impacts within a 2.5 mile radius from oil and gas facilities. The state health panel which declared 3,200′ setbacks the minimum protective distance also found that the most health-protective approach is actually no drilling at all . Let's fully protect Contra Costa residents, and our climate. We need better monitoring of oil and gas production in the county and regular, periodic monitoring of existing oil and gas infrastructure of methane and other dangerous emissions should be required. Thanks in advance for your help in protecting me, you and our fellow citizens…isn’t that what we should expect? Susan Harper You don't often get email from susanrharper@comcast.net. Learn why this is important 1 From:Email Request Sent:Tuesday, February 27, 2024 1:16 PM To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: Drilling Policy in Contra Costa's General Plan From: Jane P Perry <jpperry@berkeley.edu> Sent: Tuesday, February 27, 2024 1:15:37 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Subject: Drilling Policy in Contra Costa's General Plan Dear Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors and Department of Conservation and Development Planning Staff, I hope you and your loved ones are safe and healthy with everything you need. I am a member of 1000 Grandmothersfor Future Generations and I thank you for committing to the inclusion of a drilling ordinance in your General Plan. To ensure the health and safety of all life in Contra Costa, I urge you to halt permit approvals while you bring up to speed your new drilling ordinance. I would also commend your commitment to a plan to end all drilling in the County, per the 2021 Stanford study detailing “air pollution exposure within 2.5 miles of oil and gas wells, likely worsening negative health outcomes for nearby residents.” Results from this study certainly ought to have you amend your 3,200-foot setback from drilling sites to the 2.5 miles during your transition away from drilling, to best protect residents. I am also concerned about viable safety monitoring. I know from volunteering in the Iron Triangle in Richmond that it is neighbors in the sacrifice zone that are monitoring refinery toxins, which is outrageous but necessary and speaks to the necessity of a proper accountability plan for methane and other toxic emissions while you free Contra Costa from harmful drilling. Thank you for coordinating with other counties as we all work together to assure a safe and healthy future for all life. Take good care and please stay safe. Jane Perry Jane P. Perry, Ph.D. Retired Teacher & Researcher, UC Berkeley Unceded Territory of Huchiun (5814 Margarido Dr., Oakland 94618) Jane Putnam Perry, she/her, guest on Lisjan Territory (Oakland, CA), member of 1000 Grandmothers, writes and creates art with her cross-genre White Snake Diary (Atmosphere Press) and pieces in McSweeney’s Quarterly Concern, The Oaklandside, The Gloucester Times, Paper Dragon, Alluvian, Still Point Arts Quarterly, The Ravens Perch, The Bluebird Word, Glacial Hills Review, The Mail/The New Yorker, and You don't often get email from jpperry@berkeley.edu. Learn why this is important 2 several academic publications including Outdoor Play (Teachers College Press). Jane’s “Echo Bridge” was a 2021 audio poetry finalist in The Missouri Review and her nonfiction “The Liminal Diary” was a 2023 finalist in the Phil Heldrich Nonfiction Contest at Choeofpleirn Press. janepperry.com 1 From:Email Request Sent:Tuesday, February 27, 2024 10:45 AM To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: New Land Use Policy From: Jane Courant <janecourant@gmail.com> Sent: Tuesday, February 27, 2024 10:44:27 AM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Subject: New Land Use Policy Dear friends, Thank you very much to your commitment to Contra Costa’s commitment to a new drilling ordinance. In addition, I support a moratorium to prevent any more permit approvals until the ordinance is finalized. Communities near oil fields must be protected during this time. The requirement for 3200 foot setbacks good, but we’d like to stronger protection in place, including a complete ban on drilling. Staff needs to understand that research shows that a 3,200-foot setback from drilling sites is on the lower end of the range of distances to reduce health harms from toxic emissions and exposures. A 2021 Stanford study found negative health impacts within a much higher 2.5 mile radius from oil and gas facilities. The state’s 3200 foot setback rule is the minimum distance protecting people from most health harms and the most protective approach is to not drill at all. I urge you to protect Contra Costa residents and the overall climate. Further, Contra Costa County is extremely under-monitored by state and local air regulators, leaving county residents at risk so staff must require regular, periodic monitoring of all county oil and gas infrastructure of methane and other dangerous emissions. Sincerely yours, Jane Courant Richmond You don't often get email from janecourant@gmail.com. Learn why this is important From:Email Request To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: Comment on New County Drilling Policy Date:Tuesday, February 27, 2024 10:47:59 AM From: CJ Koepp <courtkoepp@gmail.com> Sent: Tuesday, February 27, 2024 10:47:38 AM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Subject: Comment on New County Drilling Policy You don't often get email from courtkoepp@gmail.com. Learn why this is important Hello, My name is CJ Koepp and I'd like to submit a comment on the new Contra Costa County drilling policy. First off, I appreciate your commitment to a new land use ordinance prohibiting the development of new oil & gas wells, and phasing out existing operations. Now more than ever we need to stop expanding toxic fossil fuel extraction operations, and this is a great step forward. I would also like to see a moratorium in place preventing any more permit approvals while the new ordinance is developed. It could take months (even years) before the ordinance is approved, and people living near oil fields deserve freedom from pollution now. Secondly, the 3200' setbacks are fantastic, but it's at the lower end of distances that could limit the toxic impacts from fossil fuel pollution. The best protection for people living near fossil fuel extraction operations would be no drilling at all. Finally, fossil fuel production in the County is severely under-regulated, leaving Contra Costa residents at the mercy of corporations who don't care if they're poisoning our communities. It's important for state & local air regulators to regularly periodically monitor existing infrastructure & emissions. I appreciate the work you're doing and hope you have a great day! Thanks, CJ From:Email Request To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: Comments on county drilling policy Date:Tuesday, February 27, 2024 10:09:59 AM From: Karen Beck <karenbeck730@gmail.com> Sent: Tuesday, February 27, 2024 10:09:39 AM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Subject: Comments on county drilling policy You don't often get email from karenbeck730@gmail.com. Learn why this is important Dear Staff Thank you for committing to create a new land use ordinance to prohibit development of new wells and phase out old ones. Please also place a requirement higher than 3200 foot setbacks . Stanford studies show a 2.5 mile radius positively impacts health and quality of life issues. Ofcourse we really desire no drilling at all. Also oil and gas production is seriously under monitored by state and local authorities. Please require regular monitoring of oil and gas infrastructure especially for dangerous emissions. Thank you for your work but clearly there is more to do to protect the climate and health issues in general. Sincerely Karen and Stephen Beck Danville, Ca 1 From:Email Request Sent:Wednesday, February 28, 2024 8:53 PM To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: no new oil and gas drilling in Contra Costa From: Jean Tepperman <jeantepper@gmail.com> Sent: Wednesday, February 28, 2024 8:52:49 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Subject: no new oil and gas drilling in Contra Costa Dear Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors and Department of Conservation and Development Planning Staff, Thank you so much for your concern about the dangers of oil and gas drilling. The 3200- ft. setback between drilling and sensitive receptors is really important, although that distance is not enough to really protect health and safety, as explained in this Stanford University research report. I especially grateful for your commitment to seek a county ordinance banning future new drilling permits and phasing out existing drilling. But I am concerned that new drilling could start in the time it takes to get an ordinance passed. So I am really hoping that you will immediately put in place a moratorium on new drilling permits until the process has time to be completed. Thank you, Jean Tepperman East Bay resident You don't often get email from jeantepper@gmail.com. Learn why this is important 1 From:Email Request Sent:Wednesday, February 28, 2024 8:12 PM To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: No new oil and gas drilling From: Ellen Beans <ellen.beans@gmail.com> Sent: Wednesday, February 28, 2024 8:12:06 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Subject: No new oil and gas drilling I am writing to thank you for committing to create a new land use ordinance to prohibit development of new oil and gas wells and phase out existing operations in our county. Until that process is complete, I recommend and urge you create a MORITORIUM to prevent any more permit approvals while the new ordinance is developed. I am happy to see a requirement for 3,200′ setbacks, though I had hoped for a much stronger protection requirement. Because I know that current oil and gas production in our county is definitely not monitored adequately by state and local air regulators, leaving us residents at risk, I urge your staff to REQUIRE REGULAR, PERIODIC MONITORING of existing oil and gas infrastructure of methane and other dangerous emissions. Thanks for what you have done so far, but there is more I urge you to include in these efforts to protect the people of this county for the years to come. Sincerely, Ellen Ellen Beans 925-376-7306 You don't often get email from ellen.beans@gmail.com. Learn why this is important under the California Public Records Act. From: Aaron Trott <atrott@eccid.org> Sent: Wednesday, February 28, 2024 11:15 AM To: Will Nelson <Will.Nelson@dcd.cccounty.us> Cc: DCD Advance Planning <AdvancePlanning@dcd.cccounty.us> Subject: Response to Draft EIR for CCC General plan. Hello Will, After a brief review of the 2045 General Plan, I have a couple of observations that may require correction. The Land use map on page 7 identifies a portion of the East Contra Costa Irrigation District fee property as RC (Resource Conservation). The parcels below should be identified as AL (Agricultural Lands) or AC (Agricultural Core). The District has not identified these lands as RC. They are currently part of the working irrigation system which require ongoing maintenance to maintain proper operations. Please respond once you have researched the parcel below as well as the parcels associated with the attached grant deed documents. 011-270-006-7 Thanks for your help Will. Aaron Trott, General Manager East Contra Costa Irrigation District 1711 Sellers Avenue, Brentwood, CA 94513 Phone (925) 634-3544 Fax (925) 634-0897 This electronic message contains information from East Contra Costa Irrigation District, which is confidential or privileged. The information is intended to be sent to the individual or entity named above. If you are not the intended recipient, be aware that any disclosure, copying or distribution or use of the contents of this information is prohibited. If you have received this electronic transmission in error, please notify us by telephone at 925-634-3544. 1 From:Email Request Sent:Thursday, February 29, 2024 4:10 PM To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: Fossil Fuel in Our East Bay From: Randy Monroe <randy@monroescienceed.com> Sent: Thursday, February 29, 2024 4:10:10 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Subject: Fossil Fuel in Our East Bay To Whom It May Concern, 1.The Very Good News is that staff is committing to create a new land use ordinance to prohibit development of new oil and gas wells and phase out existing operations. Yes! This process would begin after approval of the General Plan by the Board of Supervisors, probably in late summer 2024. The study and ordinance development could take a year beyond that. Then the Board of Supervisors would have to vote to approve the ordinance. — 誆誇誈誉誊誋誌認誎誏誐誑誒誓誔 Thank staff for committing to this drilling ordinance, and tell them you also want to see a moratorium in place to prevent any more permit approvals while the new ordinance is developed. Communities adjacent to Contra Costa oil fields must be fully protected while new policy is worked up. 2.We are pleased to see a requirement for 3,200′ setbacks, but would like to see even stronger protection in place. (Like that promised ban!) — 혬혭혮혯혰혱 Tell staff current research shows that a 3,200-foot setback from drilling sites is on the lower end of the range of distances that could reduce the harmful health—and quality of life—impacts from toxic emissions and exposures. A 2021 Stanford study found negative health impacts within a 2.5 mile radius from oil and gas facilities. The state health panel which declared 3,200′ setbacks the minimum protective distance also found that the most health-protective approach is actually no drilling at all. Let's fully protect Contra Costa residents, and our climate. 3.Current oil and gas production in the County is woefully under-monitored by state and local air regulators, leaving Contra Costa residents at risk. — 혝혞혟혠혡혢혣혤혥 Ask staff to require regular, periodic monitoring of existing oil and gas infrastructure of methane and other dangerous emissions. Randy Monroe Phone: (925)969-0808 Mobile: (925)788-6910 You don't often get email from randy@monroescienceed.com. Learn why this is important 2 To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. Website: MonroeScienceEd.com From:Email Request To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: CC county drilling policy comments Date:Thursday, February 29, 2024 2:21:35 PM From: Veronica G <thevern@gmail.com> Sent: Thursday, February 29, 2024 2:20:51 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Subject: CC county drilling policy comments You don't often get email from thevern@gmail.com. Learn why this is important Hello, First off, I want to thank you for committing to create a new land use ordinance to prohibit development of new oil and gas wells, and also phase out existing operations. It would be great to also see a moratorium in place to prevent any more permit approvals while the new ordinance is developed. Protecting all communities is critical! I would also love to see even stronger protection in place over and above the current 3200' setback requirement. It may seem like a lot, but negative health impacts have been shown within a 2.5 mile radius of oil and gas facilities. And of course, the best approach for a healthy environment is no drilling at all. In the current state of things, we should be moving away from oil and gas as fast as possible and moving towards renewables and green energy. The more focus we're able to put on alternatives, the quicker that better, efficient, reliable green technology will be developed. Lastly, oil and gas production here is severely under-monitored by state and local air regulators, which is problematic. The county needs to step up and put in place routine periodic monitoring of existing oil and gas infrastructure of methane and other dangerous emissions with strict testing limits and swift, significant punishments for violations. Thank you, Veronica Geczi Contra Costa resident (Kensington, CA) From:Lauren WilleyTo:Becky Golden-HarrellSubject:FW: Contra Costa future oil drilling policyDate:Thursday, April 18, 2024 5:01:50 PM LAUREN WILLEYAssociate I, PlaceWorks510.848.3815 From: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Sent: Sunday, March 3, 2024 5:12 PMTo: advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg <tsundberg@placeworks.com>; LaurenWilley <lwilley@placeworks.com>Subject: FW: Contra Costa future oil drilling policy From: JAIME PEREZ <perezvidalj@gmail.com> Sent: Sunday, March 3, 2024 5:11:17 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Subject: Contra Costa future oil drilling policy You don't often get email from perezvidalj@gmail.com. Learn why this is important Dear people, I hope this message finds you well. I want to express my sincere appreciation for the commitment of the staff to create a new land use ordinance that will prohibit the development of new oil and gas wells and phase out existing operations. This is a significant step towards protecting our communities and our environment. However, I also urge you to consider implementing a moratorium to prevent any further permit approvals while the new ordinance is being developed. It is crucial to ensure that communities adjacent to Contra Costa oil fields are fully protected during this transitional period. Additionally, while the requirement for 3,200′ setbacks is a positive development, I believe that stronger protection measures are necessary. Current research indicates that a 3,200-foot setback may not be sufficient to reduce the harmful health and quality of life impacts from toxic emissions and exposures. A Stanford study from 2021 found negative health impacts within a 2.5 mile radius from oil and gas facilities, highlighting the importance of more significant setbacks or, ideally, a complete ban on drilling. Furthermore, it is concerning that current oil and gas production in the County is under- monitored by state and local air regulators, putting Contra Costa residents at risk. I urge you to require regular, periodic monitoring of existing oil and gas infrastructures for methane and other dangerous emissions to ensure the safety and well-being of our communities. Thank you for your attention to these important matters. I look forward to your continued efforts to protect our community and our environment. Best regards, Jaime Perez 2159 Northshore Drive Richmond CA 94804 1 Amanda LukondiFrom:Email RequestSent:Saturday, March 9, 2024 4:44 PMTo:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: Please no drilling in Contra Costa County! ________________________________________ From: Diana <nicca@igc.org> Sent: Saturday, March 9, 2024 4:43:39 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request Subject: Please no drilling in Contra Costa County! [You don't often get email from nicca@igc.org. Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ] — 誆誇誈誉誊誋誌認誎誏誐誑誒誓誔 Thank you for committing to this drilling ordinance, and tell them you also want to see a moratorium in place to prevent any more permit approvals while the new ordinance is developed. Communities adjacent to Contra Costa oil fields must be fully protected while new policy is worked up. 2. We are pleased to see a requirement for 3,200′ setbacks, but would like to see even stronger protection in place. (Like that promised ban!) — 혬혭혮혯혰혱 Current research shows that a 3,200-foot setback from drilling sites is on the lower end of the range of distances that could reduce the harmful health—and quality of life—impacts from toxic emissions and exposures. A 2021 Stanford study (https://click.actionnetwork.org/ss/c/u001.nTQp_FEIcSHl649vCJCicq92jzclp0eId9x56LOsrblIp5bZBhxDv5ioIvSg6IlEsWyHK o2qI8bIVl6VLghooRE9GTXG8xgt9QQFkdttqNP8GjK0A6BDzUyg1L_U7G- GzGOznKXWnEK4n5QyCZc7DwZ_heujZPiqXWHpYI00HzAfN-oUQoPP- bPMQr6MIwl3B7y7sTrbS1xsk2CxgDw6cOEo0AqGcmgxnCT1VfuPMKfiOX3Tq4vkcKOpDK0lvuU8CK- 8FMJu41EYc1cM4gcDXgu13cyeXw7FP13gvR2-veBaskgTkDKgWYFxu1nMC62JG7VWom4scxNyujW5Y4u- jFOKqXmKWfc012O_IFtdWDNT2NMFBE14pwf3tLKdMqpMUXva9GAKIifY5Vrjwwbu2w/447/UDHSQa96RdmSyCNYowu0b g/h3/h001.q7vNB3RxW_uLVoig8LkcAu_vCA6OXssr1dJcijQ1ghM) found negative health impacts within a 2.5 mile radius from oil and gas facilities. The state health panel which declared 3,200′ setbacks the minimum protective distance also found that the most health-protective approach is actually no drilling at all. Let's fully protect Contra Costa residents, and our climate. Current oil and gas production in the County is woefully under-monitored by state and local air regulators, leaving Contra Costa residents at risk. — 혝혞혟혠혡혢혣혤혥Please require regular, periodic monitoring of existing oil and gas infrastructure of methane and other dangerous emissions. Sincerely, Diana Bohn Berkeley Contra Costa Building and Construction Trades Council 2727 Alhambra Ave . Suite 5 Martinez , CA 94553 FAX (925) 372 -74 14 March 11 , 2 02 4 To: Will N e ls on , Princ ip a l Pl a nn e r C ontra Co s ta C ounty De partm ent o f Conse rv a tion and D eve lo pm e nt 3 0 Muir R oad M a rtin ez, CA 94 553 Bill Whitney C .E .O . Phone (925)228-0900 E m a il: To : Will.N e lso n@ d cd.cccounty.us Cc : C oun ty.Administrator@cao .c cco unty.us ; John G ioia@ bo s.cc c ounty.u s; s up ervi s orande rse n@ bo s .cccoun ty.us; supe rvi sor burg is@ bo s.ccc ounty.us; S up erv i sorCarl son@ bo s.cccounty.us; dis trict5 @ bos.cccounty .u s; tim -frank @ m sn.com ; Re : C limate Action Pl a n and General Plan Update Mr. Ne lson , T here i s mu c h to comm end in th e D ra ft Co ntra Cost a Co un ty Ge nera l Pl a n a nd C lim ate Act io n Pl an U pd ate . The bi g pi cture g oa ls a re in s piring. We w a nt "good pay in g s usta in a bl e j o bs , qu a li ty scho ol s" a nd so forth . We a ls o s upp ort th e "ambiti o us ac ti o ns ... to re du ce gree nhou se gas e mi ss io ns." T he pl a n 's goa ls w ith respect to hou s ing ar e a bi g s tep fo rw ard , too , and bec ause the new ly ge nero us zo nin g fo r hou sin g is s ha ped by s m a rt growth strateg ies, thi s too is ali g ned w ith effort s to reduc e g ree nh o use gas e mi ss ion s. Howeve r, th e re are so m e s ig nifi cant de fi c ie nc ies th at need re m edi es if we wa nt t o m aximize pro gress toward s these goals . O ne key pr in c ipl e tha t und erli es m a ny of o ur comm ents is th at because th e Ge neral pl a n is th e co un ty pl a n with t he m ost compre he ns ive sco pe , cove rin g a full range o f Co un ty o perat io ns , it is t he best pl ace t o a rti cul at e how all t he pi eces fit togeth e r to ac hi eve th e la rge r vi s io n . T hi s is w ha t e ng in ee r s call syste m s thinkin g . To illu strate sys te m s thinkin g, con s id er th at new affordabl e hou s in g , if it is cons tru c ted a t e levated d e ns iti es near j o bs a nd transi t, is n 't just a ho us in g so luti o n; it 's a tran s porta ti o n a nd c limate so luti o n too . ff it is built w ith exempla ry a tt en t io n to g ree n building prin c ipl es , it ca n be a n eve n bette r c lim ate so luti o n . If th at affo rd a bl e ho us in g is built w ith hi g h road la bo r stand ard s , it ca n be a n e mpl oy m e nt a nd eco nomi c d eve lo pm e nt so lu t io n too , he lpin g to c reate a bi gge r middl e cl ass , w hi c h is ge nerall y goo d for the local eco no my. T he Buildin g Trad es pays atte nt io n to syste m s thinkin g becaus e th e goo d job s th at we seek d o not m ag icall y m ate ri a li ze in res p o nse to stand a lo ne "wo rk fo rce d eve lopm ent" o r t ra inin g progra ms. T hey are a lso co-be nefi t s of in vestm e nt s in in fr a stru c ture , ho us in g , eco nomi c deve lo pm e nt , climate miti gat io n a nd other programs with construction components that arise most consistently when these investments are deliberately structured to use apprentices and to ensure quality jobs. We have suggestions to make regarding housing, public lands and climate. These are to some extent interrelated. Every program or policy that includes high road labor standards for construction is effectively a housing solution, as paying a middle-class wage makes it easier to afford housing. By the same token, as we will explore later, high road labor standards produce higher quality construction that contributes to better climate performance. The challenge is that high road labor isn't something you can take for granted. In the Bay Area, 55% of construction workers earn what the State Depmiment of Housing and Community Development classifies as a low wage. Many low road construction employers also don't provide access to any classroom training, even for safety. This has made the construction industry one of the most dangerous in our economy. To put a fine point on it, the combination of low wages and dangerous working conditions are what in a manufacturing context would be called a sweatshop. To protect against these problems, the County should insist that construction that the County can control follows high road practices. Incorporating high road labor standards into affordable housing programs, publicly funded green building, and other climate programs, and into economic development agreements for public lands is a priority for our Building Trades Council. These are all elements that need to be built into the County's general plan . The use of the term "living wage jobs" is the best you can do for some industries, but not for the construction industry, where apprenticeable crafts all have assigned prevailing wages and sate approved apprenticeship programs. The Prevailing Wage, defined in law by the Davis Bacon Act in 1931 as pmi of the New Deal, has played a central role in creating good middle-class jobs for union construction workers since that time, and is the right reference point for quality construction jobs. The best practice is to not only require prevailing wages for construction work but to organize as much of the work as possible under project labor agreements. Housing: Our first priority with respect to housing is to ensure that funds administered by the County for affordable housing production carry requirements that all projects that are 60 units or greater in size are covered by a Project Labor Agreement with targeted and local hire policies. The plan should commit the county to negotiate with the Building Trades with the objective of establishing such an agreement. The agreement should apply both to the County's own funds and to funds administered by the County that originate from other sources such as the Bay Area Housing Finance Agency. We would also like to recommend a revision to the land use map to eliminate the Rural Residential land use designation (5 acre ranchettes) and to replace it with a Rural Reserve designation that would cany a 20 acre minimum parcel size. Many New Urbanists, and even the U.S. EPA , have defined 5 acre ranchettes as the "devils density". Ranchette sprawl is extremely inefficient. It's not dense enough to provide a meaningful contribution towards the housing stock (or much construction work), or to support transit, but too dense to maintain optimal habitat or agricultural value. Development at this density is fiscally inefficient because it is expensive to serve with urban services. Development at this density spoils the potential to efficiently develop land later in the form of walkable neighborhoods (a kind of development we don't mind noting our members are more likely to build). There is no _justification for it. A better practice is to hold rural land in parce ls that are 2 0 acres or more in s ize. For more on this, see c hapte r 11 in th e following publication: hti s ://www.e a.o o v/s ite s/default/fil es/2 0 14 -0 l /documents/2 009 essential fixe s 0. df Public Lands: The dispensation of public land fo r economic d eve lopm e nt offers an opportunity as a matter of policy to re quire high road labor practices for all construction. S pec ifically, th e general plan s hould include a Public Lands policy th a t ass ures that a ll res ultin g con stru c tion is covered by a Project Labor Agreement with the Building and Con structi o n Trades Council of Contra Costa Co un ty that features an appropriate local a nd targeted hire strategy. C limate: Co ntra Costa County ha s bee n the hub of the e ne rgy industry for Norihern Ca lifornia for more than a century. The draft plan s uggests, at least on a rh etorical leve l, that the county wo uld like to continue that leaders hip throu g h th e tran s ition towards a more s usta in a bl e future while m a intainin g a commitment to quali ty j ob s. We think th e commitment to growi ng gree n jobs , and to makin g th e m good jobs is importa nt a nd would lik e to see m o re s ub stan ce to de liv er on th at promi se to make it more than rh e toric . The C limate Act ion Plan does not present efforts to e lectri fy buildings and transportation as part of a compre he n siv e system of deca rbonization , a nd attention to de tail that is essenti a l to m eeting climate goa ls 1s rrn ss mg. The BAAQMD 's new game changing rules on water and s pace heating app li a nces for buildings, adopted in May 2023 , are an imporiant new developm e nt that has dra matically upped th e a nt e, by forcing much more rapid e lectrifi cat io n th a n ha d bee n anticipated when the County crafted it s CAP. Now th e County needs to do it s part. The Contra Costa Building and Construc tion Trades Coun c il and every other Building Trades Co un c il in th e Bay Area jointly s upp o rt e d th e Bay Area A ir Quality Management Di stri ct rul es 9-4 and 9-6 becau se we know that th ese rul es ma ndatin g electrification of heatin g appliances hav e the po te ntial , if implemented correctly in conceri with a broad s uite of complementary m eas ures, to he lp us meet both climate and e mploy m e nt goa ls that we favor. T he complication is that whether or how much e lectrifi cation of heat in g appliances wil l re duce emissions d epe nd s o n how effi c ie nt th e ap pli a nces are, how potent the refrige rant s used in heat pumps are as g hg pollutants , whether any of these escape at a ny point from in s ta llation to th e d ecommi ss ionin g of th e a ppli an ce , and how the e lectric ity is be in g ge n erated . The A ir Di stri ct do es n 't have th e resources or regu latory a uth o ri ty t o address these is s ues on it s own. Other agencies, in c lu ding co unti es , need to d o their pa 1i , and bu s in ess as us ua l won't be s uffi c ie nt. The worst case scena ri o for e lec trification illu strates why we need to be carefu l. A resistance base d e lectric heater, which is th e low-cost electric option, o perating at near I 00 % effic iency and drawin g ene rgy from a gas fir e d th e rmal powe r plant operating at ty pica l 45% efficiency wi 11 ge nerate twi ce th e g reenhou se gas polluti o n of a n ordinary gas heate r! Obvious ly, that is te rribl e m at h . H owever, we can do way better than that if we pl ace an appropriate e mph as is o n prope r in sta llati o n of hi g h pe rformance a pplian ces and g reenin g the g rid. High Performance Appliances Heat pump heaters and water heaters produce anywhere from 2 to 5 times the heating power (Coefficient Of Performance) of a resistance heater. The bottom end of that range is just treading water when plugged into a grid that is only half renewable. That won't get us where we need to go, but appliances at in the upper end of that range will stati making a difference the day they are installed. To reliably get the best environmental performance from heat pumps requires an efficient appliance, correctly sized, featuring a low ghg potential refrigerant. It also requires proper design, and flawless execution of installation, maintenance and decommissioning at the end of life. If there is a refrigerant leak, that impacts climate. If the refrigerants are over or under pressurized, that compromises efficiency and generates premature wear and tear on the system. It might seem like that there are a lot of factors that all need to be aligned to get the results we want, and that is true. The good news is that with a commitment to using the best available technology and to using a skilled construction workforce, we can get the job done. High performance equipment is available and getting better with time. We favor the use of heat pumps that have a COP in the 3-5 range. While local regulatory authority to compel this level of appliance efficiency is federally preempted, what the County chooses to fund is not constrained. Any incentive programs the County funds, and all of the work it does on its own buildings , can and should set the example. We also recommend using appliances that rely on refrigerants that have no more than 750 times the global warming potential of CO2. This standard has been promoted by the CPUC in some proceedings . Skilled workers can be found too. State licensed joint labor management apprenticeship programs for all of the relevant crafts are already providing robust training on critical green building skills . If public programs make a deliberate point of using contractors who are utilizing these training programs , they will get better work done and contribute towards building a larger skilled workforce. We would like the Climate Action Plan to be explicit about promoting skilled installation of high performance heat pumps. The narrative in the CAP should explain the benefits of doing so, and the policies embedded in the plan should commit the county to employing best practices when electrifying its own buildings, including using high efficiency heat pumps with low ghg potential refrigerants and ensuring that all retrofit work on County buildings is covered by a Community Workforce Agreement with the local Building Trades to ensure skilled installation . Greening the Grid According to the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (see the EIR for Rules 9-4 and 9-6), most of the renewable generation needed to offset the new electrical demand created by these rules will need to come from utility scale projects. We would like to emphasize that the most promising strategy would be to pursue a strong combination of both distributed and utility scale generation and storage. Not all our uti I ity scale energy has to be sourced from within the county, but if most new capacity is sourced from outside the county and much of it from hundreds of miles away in places like the California desert , that is not necessarily the best result for conservation . Moreover, very long distance transmission means more transmission losses and vulnerability to transmission interruption. Power outages have already cost the Bay Area economy hundreds of millions of dollars and the likelihood is that there will be more of this to come. Given the high cost of outages and the increasing vulnerability to outages created by climate change, we think more attention to this issue is due. Our view is that producing more new renewable close to home should be a priority and cities and counties need to work together to ensure that we get both the distributed and utility scale projects that we need . Incorporated cities harbor most of the opportunities for new distributed energy resources, while the County has jurisdiction over most of the potential sites for utility scale projects. If more counties would shoulder more responsibility for siting new utility scale renewable power, our state would more quickly reach net zero , our grid would be more reliable and the disproportionate pressure on select counties in the desert would be lessened . In theory, the County's draft CAP and General Plan do provide for growth of both distributed and utility scale renewable generation. But the county 's policies don't appear aligned with the goal of retaining leadership. Utility scale solar, for instance, is barred from most of the County controlled land. This is consistent with a disturbing trend among counties across the nation, and it is a serious threat to the climate . We understand the interest in keeping solar development out of truly pristine areas. But the current map excludes solar from areas that already have industrial wind development, and that is hard to justify. A recently proposed utility scale solar project proposed in Contra Costa County was located near Byron where it would have been collocated with an existing industrial wind project nearly underneath the transmission lines on a parcel with good road access for construction and maintenance. It was turned down because it wasn't in the County's too limited Solar Combining District. Among the factors sited was the slope of the land. There are legitimate issues associated with building on slopes. Poor techniques can lead to considerable erosion , which means not just loss of soil, but increased sediment loads in streams. However, with care (and skilled construction labor), these issues can be mitigated in many instances . The industry is rapidly improving its ability to do so. New approaches are reducing the ground level footprint of ground mounted solar panels far below what was possible just ten years ago. Today's ground mounted solar projects can compare favorably with wind projects. Some sloped areas have habitat values that are impmiant to consider. In Eastern Contra Costa County, there is a robust institutional process for doing so . The best practice is to follow the directives of the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservation Plan/ Natural Community Conservation Plan (HCP/NCCP or Plan). This is the approach the County uses to mitigate habitat issues in the existing Solar Combining District. We think that same approach should apply to some parcels with slopes that are currently excluded from the Solar Combining District. Solar projects following the directives of the habitat plan could provide a double benefit to the cause of species conservation. Reducing climate change is itself a benefit to species conservation , and fees from these projects could help contribute to the land conservation goals of the HCP/NCCP. Our recommendation is to modify the map to allow solar on more areas close to transmission contingent on project level analysis and mitigation. A revised solar sighting policy in the general plan should expand the area covered by the Solar Combining District and should be structured with a Conditional Use Permit specifying criteria for approval including mitigation of environmental impacts, meeting agrivoltaics criteria if applicable, and workforce development commitments. Green Use of Grey Water The last piece of advice we have regards a smart green building practice from the Climate Action Plan that would be a good candidate for additional action . Installing purple pipe to address needs that otherwise would be satisfied only by using potable water can provide economic climate mitigation, a significant boost to resiliency and additional plumbing work that is always welcome. The current Climate Plan has made purple piping allowable for landscape applications , which is definitely welcome, but hasn 't considered the potential to require purple piping in some instances. We would also note that, in addition to serving landscape needs , purple piping can be used in some indoor applications too , such as flushing toilets . We recommend that the County explore the potential of purple piping to meet a variety of end use applications and to establish reach codes that require purple piping where appropriate. Conclusion Contra Costa County's new general plan offers an opportunity to create high road green jobs, reduce climate emissions, improve resiliency, and make real progress towards addressing the housing crisis. The revisions that we have suggested to the County's draft plans are aimed at strengthening progress towards these goals. We look forward to working with the County staff to help make the plan something we all can be proud of. Sincere ly , w;JJ__ -4 , Bill Whitney Contra Costa Building and Construction Trades Council From:Email Request To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: Comments on CCC Conservation, Open Space and Working Lands Element Date:Monday, March 18, 2024 8:43:54 AM From: Courtney Coon <ccoon@ymail.com> Sent: Monday, March 18, 2024 8:43:43 AM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Subject: Comments on CCC Conservation, Open Space and Working Lands Element You don't often get email from ccoon@ymail.com. Learn why this is important Hello, I am a resident of Pleasant Hill. My comment is in regards to Chapter 7 of Contra Costa County's Conservation, Open Space and Working Lands Element. First of all, I would like to thank the staff for its commitment to calling for an oil drilling ban and phase out. I would love to the additional step of putting in place a full moratorium to prevent permit approvals while the ordinance is in development. Secondly, I appreciate the document's acknowledgement of the health and safety dangers of oil and gas drilling, but I would like to see even stronger protection in place such as a full ban on drilling. Current research shows that a 3,200-foot setback from drilling sites is too close to the minimum required distances that could reduce the harmful health and quality of life impacts from emissions and other exposures.The most health-protective approach is actually no drilling at all! Thirdly, I would request that the document also include a requirement for regular, periodic monitoring of methane and other dangerous emissions at existing oil and gas infrastructure. Thank you for your consideration. --- Courtney Coon, PhD she/her March 25th,2024 To: Chair of the Board of Supervisors,Supervisor Federal Glover,Vice Chair Candace Andersen, Supervisors John Gioia,Ken Carlson and Diane Burgis. Will Nelson,Principal Planner and John Kopchik,Director Department of Conservation & Development. Sustainability Commission Members via Luz Gomez,Contra Costa Sustainability Commission Chair,and Demian Hardman-Saldana,Department of Conservation &Development. CC: Jody London and Adam Scarbrough,Department of Conservation and Development Comments on Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan Introduction We appreciate the opportunity provided to offer suggestions and input on the Draft General Plan.Many who contributed to this letter have been engaged in the General Plan update process since it began.We commend the thoroughness and work that went into this plan,including the attention to each community profile and the themes that you’ve identified to guide the plan’s update.We also acknowledge and appreciate that the plan,through many measures,seeks to build resilience in the face of hazards amplified by global heating and environmental pollution.We also recognize the many ways in which the plan seeks to move the County forward in step with the clean energy transition and the health,social,environmental and economic benefits that this can deliver. It is our understanding that an implementation plan will be created.We feel this is an essential step in realizing changes embedded in the General Plan,and we look forward to reviewing it.It is also important that the General Plan is aligned with the CAP in terms of measurable GHG reduction targets. What follows are many suggestions and comments on the plan based on the careful reading of it by many members in the groups signing on to this letter.We look forward to the opportunity to discuss key points and receive feedback from County staff on these suggestions. In Contra Costa County in 2045 (prior to Table of Contents) Point 4 of the Vision Statement Strike “growing”from the 4th point,so that it reads:“All communities benefit equitably from an environmentally sustainable and just economy,”rather than “All communities benefit equitably from a growing economy that is sustainable and just.”The expectation of constant economic growth and its compatibility with resource-preservation is contested by proponents of a circular economy, 1 endorsed throughout these documents.It seems misleading to propose endless economic growth in the Overview /Vision Statement. Chapter 3:Stronger Communities Element Section:Environmental Justice SC-P1.1 and SC-A1.1 (p.3-5 and 3-6) We applaud the aspirational action (SC-A1.1)to “support transition from petroleum refining and other highly polluting industries to a net-zero emission economy based on renewable and sustainable industries that provide living-wage jobs.”However,the absence of any timeline weakens this statement of intent.Given environmental justice and climate urgencies,it needs to be clearly stated that this transition will be completed by 2045. Additionally,every effort should be made to ensure that any replacements for fossil fuel production and refining are truly renewable and sustainable,and that County policy keeps pace with rapidly evolving scientific understanding. In regard to the above,the County,following the lead of state Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS)policy,recently approved two refinery conversions to biorefining. However,that policy is currently undergoing revision in response to critical feedback from scientists,academics,and environmental justice advocates.(CARB will decide on its new policy in July.)The Union of Concerned Scientists,for example,is calling for a cap on vegetable oil-based fuels,as well as other LCFS reforms. (https://blog.ucsusa.org/jeremy-martin/a-cap-on-vegetable-oil-based-fuels-will-stabilize- and-strengthen-californias-low-carbon-fuel-standard/). Unfortunately,no guardrails were put in place around Contra Costa renewable diesel production,such as periodic reevaluation of permits.There must be mechanisms in place to ensure that projects,once permitted,can be brought into alignment with new findings about any unanticipated environmental harms or public health impacts. 2 SC-A1.1 –A1.3 (p.3-6) Health harm is done by the refining of any liquid transportation fuel,whether plant-or petroleum-based.This study finds that “respiratory ER visit rates among residents living within 10 km of biorefineries were significantly higher”than outside the 10 km zone,and that refining corn and soy-derived feedstock was the most negatively impactful (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34232029/). The County must ensure that projects within any proposed Impacted Communities Overlay Zone “positively impact health and quality of life,”as stated in A1.3 (e).This would mean disallowing new projects with unavoidable significant environmental and health impacts,and any repurposing of existing industrial facilities with unavoidable significant environmental and health impacts,in and near the county’s Impacted Communities.Given the study cited above,“near”might be defined as a distance of at least 10 km (6 miles),although refinery pollutants are known to travel far greater distances than that. SC-P-1.2 (p.3-5) “Streamline the permitting process for new development,redevelopment,and rehabilitation that promotes community objectives in Impacted Communities,as identified in the Community Profiles.” Promoting community objectives must not bypass or weaken key provisions of CEQA. The law has already been modified to expedite high-priority development (such as infill housing)and infrastructure projects.Pollution and poverty-impacted communities will likely suffer with any further weakening of CEQA protections.Perhaps this recommendation should be removed altogether. SC-P1.3 (p.3-5) Change to:Support creation of walkable districts by facilitating development of high-density,neighborhood-serving retail and service uses,public amenities,and related infrastructure (such as lighting)for residents of Impacted Communities,within walking distance of their homes. 3 SC-A1.2 (p.3-6) “Amend County Ordinance Code Chapter 84-63,Land Use Permits for Development Projects Involving Hazardous Waste or Hazardous Materials,to:(a)Increase the hazard scores for projects with potential to adversely affect Impacted Communities to ensure more projects are subject to discretionary review….” Add:Establish a mechanism whereby community members can make recommendations to the County about updating and strengthening the existing Industrial Safety Ordinance in its entirety. SC-A1.7 (p.3-6) “Upon each 5-year review of the General Plan,review health outcomes data for Impacted Communities and assess any updated information related to the delineation of Impacted Communities in Contra Costa County.” Add:In addition,with each 5-year review,County Health Services must review health outcomes data to determine the impacts of newly permitted projects and repurposed facilities.As health data becomes available,General Plan amendments may be considered sooner than five years. Section:Community Health -Healthy Neighborhoods (3-7) SCP 2.1 (p.3-11) Change:“welcome,”which is vague,and use “actively work toward”instead. This section mentions healthy air quality,but does not include any policies and actions in that regard.Perhaps this section should reference the Environmental Justice section of the Healthy Communities section,and the Transportation Element,for policies and actions to reduce air pollution.(Air quality is addressed in safety element.) 4 Section:Community Health -Access to Health Services (3-12) Section:Healthy Homes (3-16) Suggested:This section should state a policy,and action,to replace natural gas with electric appliances to improve both home and community safety. Natural gas cooking appliances should be noted as being hazardous,due to both their toxic emissions and the explosivity of natural gas infrastructure.While SC-A6.2 outlines a program to lower the cost and encourage the adoption of energy-efficient electric appliances,this section should state a policy,and action,to replace natural gas with electric appliances to improve both home and community safety. Section:Economic Empowerment-Workforce Development SC-A-8.2 (p.3-24) “…[S]upport a just transition from a fossil-fuel reliant economy by training displaced workers with skills for living-wage jobs in new industries.” Revised language:“...for living-wage jobs in new,environmentally sustainable industries that are not ancillary to,or prolong the existence of,the fossil fuel industry.” Section:Economic Empowerment -Business and Innovation SC-A9.3 (p.3-27) “Evaluate commercial and industrial regulations and permitting practices on an ongoing basis to ensure that they:(a)Address contemporary uses and activities.b)Promote compatibility between new and legacy uses.(c)Avoid creating unnecessary barriers that hinder economic expansion,investment,and sustainable growth.” Proposed language change:Strike (b).“Legacy uses”include the fossil fuel industry, which the plan actually seeks to phase out.And in (c),strike “economic expansion.” This leaves the emphasis purely on “sustainable growth.”Also,add a stipulation that regulations and permitting practices “are sufficiently protective of public health.” 5 Section:Community Profiles BayPoint /Planned Land Use. The plan calls for creating three higher-density mixed use nodes,which is commendable.However,the plan falls short in not quantifying the residential density goals necessary for encouraging the requisite neighborhood population density that would support the creation of neighborhood-serving shops and cultural facilities,and to make public transit more practical,necessary elements of neighborhood districts that are convenient to get around in by active transportation and public transportation. Pacheco –Impacted Community “residents in Pacheco face health risks associated with poor air quality.” Add Policy and Action:To make a timely transition to use of unleaded aviation fuel. Comment -Stating that Pacheco residents face health risks associated with poor air quality totally disregards one of their real health concerns,harm from lead contamination.Their homes are being dusted repeatedly by lead tainted exhaust from aircraft using leaded aviation fuel. https://ceh.org/air-and-water/avgas-map-californians-affected-by-lead-from-aviation-fuel/ The county could stop the sale of this toxic fuel and ensure the use of an unleaded version of aviation fuel,just like Santa Clara County has done. Chapter 4:Land-Use Element Section:Orderly,Well-Planned Growth -Changes to the Urban Limit Line.(p.4-14) Update the date on the statement:”The BOS will review the boundary of the ULL in the year 2016”as these provisions are effective until Dec.31,2026. LU -A1.2 (4-15) Consider a more specific word than “periodically”update Co.Ordinance Code Title 7. 6 Section:Specific Land Uses LU-7 Add Policy:For new developments on arterial streets where the ground level street frontage will be substantially retail,service,and cultural facilities,eliminate maximum building size and dwelling unit quantity limits for multi-family housing.Instead,create zoning requirements that impose reasonable buffers between the new development and adjacent existing residential properties. LU-P9.1 (4-28) “Welcome industries that create living-wage jobs and career advancement opportunities for county residents while minimizing environmental degradation.” Add:“[while minimizing environmental degradation],safety hazards,pollution exposure, and adverse public health impacts.”Instead of “welcome,”use “actively seek out.” LU-A9.3 (4-29) “Amend the County Ordinance Code and/or procedures to streamline the permitting process for businesses and industries that provide living-wage jobs,invest in the community,hire from the local workforce,and embrace sustainability.” Add:“[and embrace environmental sustainability],while maintaining CEQA compliance.” Transparency and integrity in public decision-making should not be abandoned in the pursuit of equity and environmental sustainability. Chapter 5:Transportation Element Section:Safe and Sustainable Transportation (p.5-2) The plan’s emphasis on active transportation and public transportation is to be commended. Suggested change:Include information in this paragraph indicating that as of July 1, 2020,the State,by adopting Senate Bill 743,has officially moved all jurisdictions from the LOS (Level of service)metric to the VMT (Vehicle Miles Traveled)metric for assessing and analyzing traffic impacts of land use and transportation projects.This is a major change that is now adopted law.Reducing VMT is now the only way that 7 Contra Costa County or any jurisdiction is moving into the future. https://mtc.ca.gov/planning/transportation/driving-congestion-environment/sb-743-los-v mt-transition Include in this discussion:There are multiple ways to encourage people to reduce using motor vehicles for personal transportation:(a)making it more expensive,(b)making it less convenient,(c)making alternatives more convenient,and (d)creating more higher density mixed use communities—where active transportation access to shops,offices, cultural activities,and public transit becomes more practical. Add New Goal,Policy and Actions Suggested Goal:Encourage residents to ride bicycles,including electric mobility devices,for transportation and recreation by creating a complete network of bicycle facilities on all County arterial and collector streets. Suggested Policy:Follow the most current adopted version of the Highway Design Manual,including any Design Information Bulletins that are awaiting adoption. Suggested Actions: Install Class II bicycle lanes on each side of every Route of Regional Importance in the entire County.An acceptable alternative would be to install a Class IV bicycle path on one side of the Route of Regional Importance.If the Class IV option is pursued,there must be a traffic signal at each end of the path so that the bicyclist can easily switch from the bike lane to the bike path and vice versa. Where the Route of Regional Importance is on a freeway,the bike facilities as described above will be installed on a closely parallel arterial street. When an arterial or collector street or road receives sufficient major maintenance (resurface,overlay,slurry seal,etc.)to require the restriping of the traffic lanes,all bike lanes will be painted so that they extend all the way to the limit line of every intersection. All intersections that contain any dedicated right-turn lanes must include a dedicated bike lane between dedicated right-turn lane and dedicated through lane.Given that the space between the curb faces is limited,narrowing all lanes by the same percentage will be an acceptable compromise. Be sure that all traffic-signal sensing-loops or devices include markings indicating where the bicyclist needs to wait in order to trigger the signal.This includes dedicated left-turn 8 lanes.Pending the street undergoing major maintenance and the inclusion of a bike lane up to the limit line,such markings will be installed in the rightmost through traffic lane. Include crosswalks in all four quadrants of every signalized intersection. Retrofit to include a pedestrian "beg"button that triggers the traffic signal on every traffic signal pole without regard to the presence or absence of painted crosswalks,pedestrian "walk"signals,or sidewalks. Install and maintain bike lanes on Pacheco Boulevard,paying particular attention to the best possible passage under the historic railroad overpass on Pacheco Boulevard." TR-P1.1 (p.5-5) Rewrite this policy.Remove any mention of exceptions to LOS.Remove any mention to LOS.LOS should no longer be used by the County for analyzing traffic impacts. Reducing VMT is now the State-wide metric required by law for assessing and analyzing traffic impacts of transportation projects;Contra Costa County is required to use VMT. TR-P1.12,(5-6) Add:The county will amend its building code to require EV charging for each dwelling in new multi-family projects effective by 2025,and encourage the installation of charging at existing multi-family housing with financial incentives.It should also make project permitting easier. Regarding the transition of private ICE motor vehicles to EVs,the plan only mentions adding charging infrastructure at new developments.EVs have been mass-produced for over a dozen years now.These earlier models provide relatively inexpensive entry to driving electric vehicles;however,many of the early models do not have fast charging capability.Providing charging infrastructure at existing multi-family housing is vital for the practical charging of these earlier EVs.Also,charging at home is easier for all EV owners than having to stop at commercial charging stations,and can lower charging electricity costs.It appears that 2025 CalGreen will require EV charging capability for each new dwelling in new multi-family projects.However,this greatly expanded charging requirement will not take effect until 2026. 9 TR-P 1.2 (p.5-5) Add to the end of this sentence:"by requiring the installation of a bicycle lane along any street where the curb is replaced." TR-P 1.4 (p.5-5) Adjust this policy to indicate that reducing VMT is the County's policy.Create an action item as needed to tell the County to adjust the Transportation Demand Management ordinance to reflect this. TR-P 1.6 (p.5-5) Adjust the language in this policy to indicate that reducing VMT is now State law.This could be done by inserting language after Contra Costa County "by reducing VMT"and before “through the application of.” TR-P 1.13 (p.5-6) Add:"Opportunities to charge electric bicycles and other types of individual electric powered transport,aka micromobility,are included in the definition of ZEV charging/fueling infrastructure." TR-A Add New Action Include an action that requires the County to rewrite and update the County's Transportation Demand Management document to reflect the reduction of VMT as the County's metric for assessing and analyzing traffic impacts of transportation projects. TR-A -Add New Action Include an action that requires the County to rewrite and update the County's Transportation Analysis Guidelines to reflect the reduction of VMT as the County's metric for assessing and analyzing traffic impacts of transportation projects.Note:You may want to renumber these actions to reflect the numbering system that you are using throughout the document. TR-A 1.1 (p.5-6) Include reference to both human-powered and electric bicycles in this policy.This could be done by inserting this language after ...not limited to "analog and electric bicycles,"in front of “micro mobility,zero-carbon rideshare....” TR-A 1.5 (p.5-6) Include:"bicycle lanes"and "sidewalks"specifically in the action item.This Action Item is too vague and should include an inventory of bike lanes and sidewalks within 10 one mile of the subject County offices and facilities and from public transit to these facilities,and the closing of any gaps as a priority. TR-A 1.7 (p.5-7) Add:"bike racks and bike lockers"in the amenities parenthetic.So it reads “amenities (e.g., shelters,seating,bike racks and bike lockers)” TR-A 1.11 (p.5-7) Include:"and electric bicycle"after ZEV...and before “...charging.” TR-A 1.12 (p.5-7) Add at the end of this item:"as well as personal EVs and electric bicycles." TR-A 1.13 (p.5-7) Rephrase this action.Asking for money from others to pay for bike lanes,sidewalks and traffic signals is a great idea and should be encouraged,but the physical impacts of micro-mobility transportation are the bike lanes and sidewalks.The operational impacts of micro-mobility transportation are the traffic signals.The construction of both of these projects is called for elsewhere in this document.This entire chapter concerns providing and dividing up space on the road and encouraging people to use more of certain portions of it and less of other portions of it. TR-P 2.3 (p.5-8) Change:Specifically call out that street lights be included wherever a separate bike path crosses a public street. Note:The East Bay Regional Park District has a policy of not lighting its paths.EBRPD operates many paths along utility rights-of-way that cross public streets often. Add Action:To implement this policy. TR-A 2.3 (p.5-8) Include:"Sidewalks will be included on both sides of every at-grade railroad crossing." TR-A 2.3 (p.5-8) Include:Underpasses built in the 1920s under railroads and that are very narrow according to our current roadway design guidelines will be widened to provide bicycle and pedestrian facilities. Comment:Two that come to mind are the one in Franklin Canyon (at the foot of the hill from Cummings Skyway)and the one on Pacheco Boulevard (just west of Falling Star Boulevard).Note:Although divided and multi-lane,Highway 4 through Franklin 11 Canyon is not a freeway.It is not limited access,so it does not meet the Caltrans definition of freeway.Bicycles are permitted on the eastbound segment of Highway 4 between the Sycamore Avenue and the Cummings Skyway interchanges.Bicycles are permitted on the westbound side,too. Section:Coordinated Planning (5-8) Figure TR-2 Routes of Regional Significance (p.5-10) Correct:The SR 160 Corridor on the Antioch Bridge from Wilbur Avenue and to the north is NOT freeway.Bicycles and Pedestrians are permitted. TR-A 3.1 (p.5-11) Add to action item:That complete streets concepts include bicycle lanes.Include "If the Route of Regional Significance is on a Limited Access Highway (freeway),include bike lanes on a nearby parallel arterial or collector street OR include a Class IV bicycle facility on the freeway right-of-way." Note:There are three segments of freeway,of which Bikes East Bay is aware,that permit bicycles:Highway 4 between Willow Pass Road and Port Chicago Highway; Highway 4 between Sycamore Avenue and Cummings Skyway;Highway 24 between Camino Pablo and Fish Ranch Road. TR-P 3.4 (p.5-11) Add:"Protected bicycle lanes must be swept as often as any street of similar type." TR-P 3.5 (p.5-11) Add:Require secure bike parking rooms in all multi-tenant buildings that do not provide an enclosed garage for each separate housing unit.(i.e.,townhomes,apartments, condominiums)Note:This policy would better be added to the Housing Chapter,but that portion of this General Plan was covered by a separate process. TR-A 3.2 (p.5-11) Include:"designation of certain roads as toll roads"as part of this action item. Section:Multimodal Roadway Network TR-P 4.1 (p.5-14) Include:A statement that deals with conflicts between bicycle plans.Specifically, between the CCTA's adopted Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan and a jurisdiction's adopted bicycle plan.When such a conflict exists (i.e.,the City's plan does 12 not call for bicycle lanes on a certain street,but CCTA's plan does),which plan will take precedent?Suggestion:the more conservative plan should.This policy should be a separate policy and logically would follow TR-P 4.1.We could call it TR-P 4.1.1 or we could follow the numbering sequence that you are using and renumber all the following policies. TR-P 4.3 (p.5-14) Add:"Build bike lanes and sidewalks up to limits of adjacent jurisdictions even if the adjacent jurisdiction does not currently have bike lanes or sidewalks along that segment of arterial or collector street." TR-A 4.3 (p.5-15) Remove:"parking"from this action item. It is time that we acknowledge there is a limited amount of space available between the curb-faces of our public streets.Large chunks of this public property should no longer go to a single individual for private use. TR-P 4.6 (p.5-15) Suggestion:Consider inclusion of on street parking as well. TR-A 4.1 (p.5-15) Add:“but at least every _years”.In addition to on an as-needed basis. Section:Active Transportation (p.5-19) “Class I bikeways (bike paths)provide completely separate facilities from automobiles and are designated for the exclusive use of bicyclists and pedestrians with minimal cross-flow automobile traffic.In Contra Costa County,these types of paths are often along creeks,canals, and former rail lines.Class I bikeways are often used for recreational and commute trips.” Add:"utility corridors"so this reads “....these types of paths are often along creeks,canals, utility corridors,and former rail lines.” Suggestion:Reduce the use of Class III bicycle lanes as much as possible. Comment:Bicyclists hate Class III bike routes.The copy has a very nicely written description of what perfection would look like,but the reality is that traffic engineers routinely put "sharrows"on 40+MPH arterial streets and invite the bicyclist to strap a 13 piece of Styrofoam on their head and go out and fight it out with motorists who are paying more attention to their cell phones than they are to their driving. TR-P 5.4 (p.5-20) Delete:“where feasible”from this policy. TR-P 5.5 (p.5-20) Add Action:for the County “to obtain and use or contract for use of specialized equipment,such as ATV blowers used by EBRPD,to meet street cleaning needs of smaller bike lanes bordered by bollards.” TR-P 5.10 (p.5-20) Include:(1)Electrical outlets for the charging of electric bikes and scooters should be included in some reasonable minimum of these parking places,and (2)bicycle lockers be provided.(3)Also,bicycle racks must be sufficiently widely spaced so that cargo bikes and bicycle cargo trailers (in addition to racing bicycles)can fit between the racks; and some of the lockers should be sufficiently large to fit cargo bicycles. TR-A 5.1 (p.5-21) Include:"This project may mean that some vehicle traffic lanes may need to be narrowed,parking may need to be adjusted or eliminated,and a vehicle traffic lane occasionally may need to be eliminated." TR-A 5.5 (p.5-21) Eliminate:“consider.” Section:Air Mobility (p.5-24) TR-P7.2 (p.5-25) “Work with the FAA and aircraft operators to minimize conflicts with residential areas and sensitive receptors.” Suggested Action:Remove Leaded Aviation Fuel within 3 years.(Santa Clara County has done this.) 14 Chapter 7:Conservation,Open Space,and Working Lands Element COS-A14.1 (p.7-43) (a)“Prohibit new and expanded oil and gas production wells in the following: (a)iii “Areas within 3,200 feet of sensitive receptors or urban land use designations….” We appreciate this implicit acknowledgement of the health and safety dangers associated with proximity to oil and gas drilling,but would like to see even stronger protection in place. Current research shows that a 3,200-foot setback from drilling sites is actually on the lower end of the range of distances that could reduce the harmful health and quality of life impacts from toxic emissions and exposures.A 2021 Stanford study found negative health impacts within a 2.5 mile radius from oil and gas facilities.[2.5 miles =13,200 ft.] The state investigatory panel that declared 3,200′setbacks the minimum protective distance also found that the most health-protective approach is no drilling at all. Moreover,HS-P1.4 “[requires]new industrial development to locate significant pollution sources as far away from sensitive receptors as possible.”To achieve internal consistency within the General Plan,and to promote maximal health and safety protection,drilling setback requirements in COS-A14.1 should be made to align with this principle. (b)“Restrict oil and gas drilling operations to agricultural zoning district only.” Suggested Action:Remove (b).Rationale:Oil and gas drilling in agriculturally-zoned lands contradicts the goal stated in COS-P2.8 “to increase,enhance,and protect agricultural land and its production capabilities.”It also undermines the “County’s agricultural preservation goals”referenced in COS-A2.3. If agriculturally-zoned land is to be used for any purpose other than agricultural-related, that activity should be limited to renewable energy production known to be compatible with agriculture.One example of this is the planting of shade-tolerant crops under solar installations. 15 (e)Include performance standards related to water quality,air quality,odors, noise and aesthetics. Suggested wording:Performance standards relating to water quality should explicitly include impacts on groundwater aquifers,including groundwater levels,which would be consistent with COS-P8.1:“Protect public water supplies by denying applications for projects that would introduce significant new pollution sources in groundwater basins and watersheds feeding major reservoirs.” (f)Add an additional requirement for the regular,periodic monitoring of methane and other dangerous emissions by County Hazardous Materials staff.Current oil and gas production in the County is woefully under-monitored by state regulators (CalGEM field inspection is severely understaffed),leaving Contra Costa residents at risk.This would be consistent with HS-A2.2,which calls for “data collection,monitoring of pollution exposure,and identification and implementation of solutions in Impacted Communities.” The monitoring needed near oil and gas infrastructure would necessarily extend beyond listed AB 617 communities. Finally,we applaud the commitment to develop a “feasibility study”and a new land use ordinance that would amend the County Ordinance Code to prohibit development of new oil and gas wells and phase out existing oil and gas well operations.We note the alignment here with SC-A2.1,which proposes studying “the feasibility of implementing an amortization process to eliminate non-conforming land uses.” It is our understanding that this process would begin after approval of the General Plan by the Board of Supervisors,which is likely to occur in late summer 2024.The study and ordinance development could reasonably take a year or more beyond that. We therefore propose an urgency moratorium during this time to prevent any more permit approvals while the new ordinance is in process.Communities adjacent to Contra Costa oil fields must be fully protected while new policy is developed.And,in conformance with the County’s Declaration of a Climate Emergency,climate-protective actions which reduce GHG emissions must not be delayed. 16 Conservation,Open Space and Working Lands Element Performance Measures (p.7-46) Add:the following measure for review every five years: Increased quantity of renewable energy sources,including wind power generation systems and solar energy facilities,along with microgrids,battery energy storage systems,and associated technologies. Chapter 8:Public Facilities and Services Element Section:Just and Equitable Facilities and Services PFS-A2.3 (p.8-6) Suggest changing to:Implement and maintain urban greening and green infrastructure, such as sustainable/green street projects,in Impacted Communities. PFS-A2.4 (p.8-6) Suggest changing to:Regularly assess Code Enforcement responses and Public Works maintenance practices to ensure equitable implementation.Prioritize resources to keep Impacted Communities safe and clean,emphasizing enforcement actions on issues identified in Community Profiles PFS-A2.6 (p.8-6) Suggest changing to:Pursue public-private partnerships that will improve access to reliable,fast internet and make digital resources available in Impacted Communities at affordable prices. Chapter 9:Health and Safety Element Section:Air Quality HS-P1.2 (p.9-4) As written:“Participate in emission and exposure reduction,public education ...and other programs that promote improved air quality,focusing on impacted Communities.” 17 Strengthen language:Change “participate in”to “prioritize.” HS-P1.3 (p.9-4) It’s not clear where to find the information indicated by the asterisk (and subsequent asterisks). HS-P1.4 (p.9-4) “Require new industrial development to locate significant pollution sources as far away from sensitive receptors as possible.” Better:“at the maximum distance possible from sensitive receptors.” HS-P1.6 (p.9-4) “Require that any mitigation of air quality impacts occur on-site to the extent feasible to provide the greatest benefit to local residents.For mitigation that relies on offsets, require that the offsets be obtained from sources as near to the project site as possible. If the project site is within or adjacent to an Impacted Community,require that offsets/mitigation be located within that community unless determined infeasible by the County.*” Without explanatory material—where exactly is the information to which the asterisk refers?—it is very hard to understand this requirement.Offsets are not even defined in the Glossary,and absolutely should be.Does this possibly reference BAAQMD’s Regulation 2,Rule 2,and the Air District’s emissions offset program?The rule applies to major-NSR (New Source Review)projects which produce precursor organic compounds (POC),oxides of nitrogen (NOX),and PM2.5,all with adverse health impacts. We strongly agree that direct reduction of emissions at the source should always be prioritized,and hope not see any approval of projects that would require mitigation from offsets.This would be consistent with SC-A1.3 (e). Perhaps the County can clarify where in its jurisdiction offsets are currently used and how they might be employed in the future? To be consistent with EJ commitments,it is essential that no pollution trade-off causes any Impacted Community to experience “offset”pollution. 18 Section:Air Quality in Impacted Communities HS-P1.10 (p.9-5) “Support efforts to provide HVAC upgrades and portable clean air filters to persons who live in Impacted Communities and other areas burdened by disproportionate exposure to poor air quality.” Add:Provide air filtration in schools that are in close proximity to industrial facilities. HS-A2.1 (p.9-8) “Partner with community members and regulatory agencies to prepare a community-scale plan for reducing and mitigating air pollutant emissions and industrial hazards,such as pipeline risks,accidents,potential water or soil contamination,and impacts to sensitive ecological resources for each Impacted Community,or group of Impacted Communities,as appropriate.” Add:monitoring and data collection to the community-scale plan,as in HS-A2.2. HS-A2.3 (p.9-8) “Conduct a housing condition survey in Impacted Communities to identify units likely requiring upgrades to provide adequate protection from toxic releases.Based on the survey’s findings,target outreach to provide information about weatherization and similar improvement programs.” Add:Additionally,in Impacted Communities where housing is owned and managed by the County,conduct Health Impact Assessments on an annual basis,and evaluate the feasibility of relocating residents living directly on the fenceline of heavily polluting facilities. 19 Section:Greenhouse Gases Greenhouse Gases Description “To support its GHG emissions reduction goals,[and State climate goals],the County strives for net-carbon neutrality through a [gradual]transition to renewable and carbon-free fuels….” Add the bracketed reference to State goals,and substitute “timely”or “expeditious”for “gradual.” HS-A3.1 (p.9-10) Regarding (d):GHG reduction measures and strategies with quantifiable outcomes Add:“including measurable goals or policies that track actual emissions reductions achieved,such as amount of waste diverted or number of buildings converted to electric appliances. Regarding (f):The implementation and monitoring program needs to include reporting at least annually.The reporting also needs to be easy for the public to access,so that county residents can be updated and adequately prepared to participate in future plan revisions.Some type of a dashboard like that used by San Jose is recommended to track measurable goals around work and progress to date. Section:Climate Change,Resilience,and Adaption HS-P4.3 (p.9-13) “Discourage new below-market-rate housing in High and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones,the Wildland-Urban Interface,and Alquist-Priolo Fault Zones.If below-market-rate housing must be constructed within these zones,require it to be hardened or make use of nature-based solutions to ensure it remains habitable to the greatest extent possible.” 20 Comment:This should apply to all new housing.Catastrophic wildfire threatens everyone in its path,regardless of race or class,and any new housing in fire-prone areas potentially impacts all surrounding communities. HS-P4.6 (p.9-13) “In hazard-prone areas,such as slopes exceeding 15 percent,mapped floodplains, High and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones,and Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zones,allow for decreased residential density,including below the minimum density requirement for the applicable land use designation,as the severity of risk increases.*” Substitute “encourage”for “allow.” Section:Sea level rise HS-P6.3 (p.9-26) “Require new industrial development in areas subject to sea-level rise,emergent groundwater flooding,or tsunami inundation to provide plans for prevention and remediation of any contaminant releases induced by these hazards,along with bonds that guarantee remediation plans are implemented.Remediation should meet standards that protect people and the environment in the event of future permanent inundation.” Comment:This requirement should also apply to existing industrial facilities.(Perhaps it could be better incorporated into HS-P9.5). Section:Management of Hazardous Materials and Hazardous Waste. HS-P9.5 (p.9-42) “Require facilities that manage hazardous materials or hazardous waste in stationary or fixed storage tanks and that are in areas at risk of inundation from sea-level rise and flooding to conduct sea-level rise studies to address the risk of hazardous materials release from rising water levels,including rising groundwater.Require these facilities to incorporate best management practices to reduce the risk of release.” 21 Additionally,facilities should “provide plans for prevention and remediation of any contaminant releases ...along with bonds that guarantee remediation plans are implemented,”per HS-P6.3. HS-P9.9 (p.9-43) Change:“discourage,”“prohibit.” Thank you again for the opportunity to offer these comments and suggested language changes. We look forward to discussing key points with you and getting your feedback on the items in this letter. Signed by: Shoshana Wechsler,Sunflower Alliance Marti Roach and Lisa Jackson,350 Contra Costa Action. Arthur Bart-Williams,Grid Alternatives Bay Area Bruce Ohlson,Bike East Bay Lynda Deschambault,Contra Costa County Climate Leaders Victor Flores,Greenbelt Alliance Bill Olson,Citizens Climate Lobby -Contra Costa Chapter Denice A.Dennis,1000 Grandmothers for Future Generations Jan Warren,Chair,Interfaith Climate Action Network Benisa Berry,Center for Human Development and East County Community Leaders Network Fred Bialy,Climate Reality Bay Area,Contra Costa County Policy Action Squad Martha Kreeger,Sierra Club,SF Bay Chapter 22 From:Email Request To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: 190 Alderwood Road in Walnut Creek Date:Monday, March 25, 2024 1:26:11 PM From: Kevin Burke <kevin@burke.dev> Sent: Monday, March 25, 2024 1:25:55 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org>; ken.carlson@bos.cccounty.us <ken.carlson@bos.cccounty.us>; Colleen Awad <colleen.awad@bos.cccounty.us> Subject: 190 Alderwood Road in Walnut Creek You don't often get email from kevin@burke.dev. Learn why this is important This property is on the market - 1.3 acres, on the same block as apartments, and across the creek from more apartments. Would it be possible to get a higher base zoning here than 7 homes per acre, for example townhome density (17 homes/acre?) This might encourage reinvestment into a more productive land use, and help the County's social and environmental justice initiatives by contributing more sales and property tax revenue. https://www.zillow.com/homedetails/190-Alderwood-Rd-Walnut-Creek-CA- 94598/18387591_zpid/ Best, Kevin Burke March 25th,2024 To: Chair of the Board of Supervisors,Supervisor Federal Glover,Vice Chair Candace Andersen, Supervisors John Gioia,Ken Carlson and Diane Burgis. Jody London and Adam Scarbrough,Department of Conservation and Development and Will Nelson,Principal Planner. Sustainability Commission Members via Luz Gomez,Contra Costa Sustainability Commission Chair,and Demian Hardman-Saldana,Department of Conservation &Development. 1 LETTER OF COMMENT ON CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION PLAN In November,2023,we were happy to receive the final draft version of the Contra Costa Climate Action Plan,released for public comment.Many of the groups signed onto this letter have been involved with the development of the Climate Action Plan since the CAP update process started mid-2019. This letter provides some overview comments and then offers suggested language changes for elements of the CAP that we believe can be strengthened to better reflect urgency,clarity and accountability. GENERAL COMMENTS AND OBSERVATIONS POSITIVES THAT STOOD OUT We appreciate the comprehensiveness of this plan and recognize the hard work that went into it. What stood out: 1.Interweaving plans and actions between the General Plan and Climate Action Plan.. 2.Most of the introductory narrative sections are very good and can be useful to educate the general public. 3.Explicit commitment to secure necessary funding to implement the CAP. 4.Indication of interest in moving toward requirement in staff and Board actions for disclosure of climate and equity effects.(L-2 Actions Point 3). 5.Commitment to do an annual report. 2 SUBSTANTIVE ISSUES GAPS Section -The 2024 CAP and Carbon Neutrality (page 104) We have a number of concerns and recommendations: 1)The stated possible inability to reach GHG reduction targets in line with the state by 2045 with tools available now.We feel that more effort can be put into moving aggressively on GHG emissions reductions in buildings,waste and transportation in order to close the gap in the plan. We do not think it wise to kick the can down the road and rely on hoped-for technological fixes. 2)Reliance on “uncertain”carbon sequestration for results.Referenced in the section on The CAP and Carbon Neutrality (p104)are uncertainties around carbon sequestration,storage and carbon offsets as means to reach reduction goals.Aside from natural sequestration,we strongly submit that industrial carbon capture and storage should not be considered as a possible future solution for GHG reduction in the County.It is expensive,unproven in its ability to actually reduce emissions and be scalable,and it takes away resources and focus from the promising strategies in renewable energy and energy efficiency.The CAP and General Plan should clearly rule out this option. 3)Using offsets is a false approach that only consigns our impacted communities to continued pollution based upon offsets that often cannot be proven to be truly a new reduction in carbon. The plan needs to prioritize direct GHG emission reductions that also improves air quality for the areas of the county with the worst cumulative air pollution. Comment:◦Offsets are not defined in the Glossary. COMMENTS:Please explain figures in Table 15,page 105.What is the 11%Other category? Are these emissions that are unable to be reduced?Is the MITCo2 7,070 the amount the plan cannot reduce as shown in the categories in Table 15?If so,what are the technical,economic and political barriers to reducing these further? WAYS TO STRENGTHEN COMMITMENTS TO ACTION 1.Section 4,which outlines the efforts to reduce GHG emissions and resilience efforts,lacks performance result metrics in Goals,Strategy and Actions (with some exceptions.)We want to see desired results for 2030 and 2045.A key theme of many prior comments sent in by some signers has been the need for measurable efforts.We do note that Appendix B –Technical GHG Appendix offers performance targets which cover some elements of strategy and actions covered in Section 4 of the plan.Clearer and more overarching measurable results would convey desired results. (Example:https://www.sanjoseca.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/66591/63740178699 5170000) 3 2.We strongly recommend enhancing accessibility for all readers by cross-referencing Chapter 4 and Chapter 5 Strategies,Chapter 6 2024 CAP Implementation Matrix,and Appendix B Key Assumptions and Performance Targets Sections.This would provide a comprehensive view of the plan's strategies and success measurement methods for all stakeholders. Currently,GHG Reduction Strategies in Chapters 4 and 5 are listed separately in Chapter 6, which includes additional details like "Performance Metrics,""Potential Partners,""Applicability," and "Time Frame."Key assumptions and performance measures necessary for achieving projected GHG emissions reductions are located in Appendix B (Page 244 of the PDF document).This section details assumptions about community participation and quantifiable performance targets for success by 2030 and 2045.Both are crucial for evaluating strategy success,yet they're separated from key performance metrics in the Implementation Plan. 3.Performance targets in Appendix B are not clear as they do not show how the target figures are a percentage of the total.For example,the number of households with composting service should also tell us how this target is a percent of total households in unincorporated Contra Costa.This appears to be missing in all performance targets. 4.Much of the actions lack clear commitment.The plan has many modifiers when discussing action that create room for no commitment or accountability for an action to take place.For example,“Encourage”,“If Feasible”,“Consider”are common modifiers.“Evaluate options”is also used with no indication of identification of the best option,and actions to implement it. 5.We recommend that a public dashboard of the Strategies be created and updated regularly in line with the reports to the Sustainability Committee and Board to show measurable progress on actions that reduce emissions.This dashboard should be accessibly published on the county website,not just in reports in meeting agendas which are hard for the public to access and to track over time. (Example:https://www.sanjoseca.gov/your-government/departments-offices/envir onmental-services/climate-smart-san-jos/climate-smart-data-dashboard) RECOMMENDED LANGUAGE CHANGES CLEAN AND EFFICIENT BUILT ENVIRONMENT P.72 BE-1 Strategy Current Wording:Require and incentivize new buildings and additions built in unincorporated Contra Costa County to be low-carbon or carbon neutral. COMMENT:In light of the Ninth Circuit Court’s decision not to allow Berkeley to appeal its ruling,we encourage the County to explore all options to incentivize all electric new buildings 4 and hope to work with the Sustainability Committee and staff as options are explored and discussed.We appreciated the 2-28 email announcement from DCD affirming efforts to promote all electric new buildings. Point 3 Existing Wording:Partner with community groups and MCE to establish an induction cooktop loaner program for county residents. Comment:Suggestion that this action be moved to the BE-2 which addresses existing buildings. Point 6 Existing Wording:Provide educational materials to encourage project applicants to incorporate passive solar design features into new developments and significant reconstructions. Point 6 Suggested Wording:Provide educational materials to encourage project applicants to incorporate passive solar design features into new developments and significant alterations and additions. Point 7 Existing Wording:Promote additional sustainable building strategies and designs, including small and “tiny”homes,to project applicants as site appropriate.Consider requiring additional sustainable features as a condition of approval,including reuse of materials to minimize embedded carbon. Point 7 Suggested Wording:Promote additional sustainable building strategies and designs, including small and “tiny”homes,to project applicants as site appropriate.Require additional sustainable features as a condition of approval,including reuse of materials to minimize embedded carbon.Create policies that require and or incentivize durability,reuse, remanufacturing,and recycling. BE-2 Strategy Current Wording:Retrofit existing buildings and facilities in the unincorporated county,and County infrastructure,to reduce energy use and convert to low-carbon or carbon-neutral fuels. BE-2 Suggested wording:Prioritizing equity,retrofit 40%of existing buildings and facilities in the unincorporated county,and county infrastructure to all electric heating systems by 2030,and 100%by 2045. BE-2 Action recommendations: Comment:We assume many more explicit actions will be in the BE Roadmap such as pursuing zonal strategies with PG&E. Point 2 Existing Wording:Require replacement and new water heater and space heating and cooling systems to be electric if the building electric panel has sufficient capacity in accordance with BAAQMD Regulation 9,Rule 4,and Regulation 9,Rule 6.(COS-P14.10) 5 Point 2 Suggested Wording:Provide educational and technical resources to advance the adoption of HPWH and HP space heating in buildings in support of BAAQMD Regulation 9, Rule 4,and Regulation 9,Rule 6,which will mandate that replacement and new water heaters (2027 and 2031)and space heaters (2029)are zero NOx..(COS-P14.10) COMMENT:The BAAQMD rules do not provide exceptions for electric panel capacity.There are many available panel capacity mitigation devices,including low cost solutions. Point 3 Existing Wording:Create a detailed roadmap to convert existing homes and businesses to use low-or zero-carbon appliances.The roadmap should include steps to support converting buildings to rely on low-or zero-carbon energy using an equitable framework that minimizes the risk of displacement or significant disruptions to existing tenants.(COS-A14.7) Point 3 Suggested Wording:Create and implement a detailed roadmap to convert existing homes and businesses that use gas heating systems to all-electric appliances.The roadmap should include steps to support the electrification of buildings using an equitable framework that minimizes the risk of displacement or significant disruptions to existing tenants.(COS-A14.7) Point 4 Existing Wording:Evaluate options for incentivizing and requiring additions and alterations to be energy efficient and to achieve the lowest feasible levels of GHG emissions, including upgrades to the building electric panel as needed.(COS-A14.8) Comment:The State building energy code is sufficiently stringent in terms of energy efficiency. Better energy code enforcement is what is needed to achieve buildings with greater energy efficiency. Point 6 Existing Wording:Explore opportunities,in collaboration with partner agencies,to create new incentives or publicize existing ones to support updating existing buildings to achieve the lowest feasible levels of GHG emissions. Point 6 Suggested Wording:Identify and advance opportunities,in collaboration with partner agencies,to create new incentives and publicize existing ones to support the replacement of existing buildings’gas heating systems with electric heating systems. Point 7 Existing Wording:Work to continue to obtain funding with partners such as BayREN and MCE to implement a program or programs to provide reduced-cost or free energy-efficiency and zero-carbon retrofits to local small businesses and households earning less than the area median income,in support of the Contra Costa County Asthma Initiative,Contra Costa County Weatherization Program,similar County programs,other nonprofit partners,and other health equity efforts for Impacted Communities.Support the use of low-emitting materials,including paints and carpeting,in retrofits to improve indoor air quality. COMMENT:This action is unclear.Is this about embracing and working to accomplish a whole homes or healthy homes approach to retrofitting in impacted and low income areas?(we support a whole home/healthy homes approach) 6 BE-3:Increase the amount of electricity used and generated from renewable sources in the county. BE-3 Suggested wording:All buildings in unincorporated Contra Costa County will use energy generated by renewable sources by 2040. BE-3 Action recommendations: Point 6 Existing Wording:Encourage installation of battery storage systems in new and existing buildings,especially buildings with solar energy systems and buildings that provide essential community services.(COS-P14.7) Point 6 Suggested wording:Working with partners,use education,policy and permitting changes,and promotion of economic incentives to increase solar and battery systems for 80%of residential,commercial and industrial buildings,prioritizing impacted communities by 2045.Solar and battery systems could be implemented at either the micro-grid level and/or for individual properties. New Action:In partnership with MCE,proactively identify opportunities for industrial scale solar plus battery projects in unincorporated Contra Costa County to benefit impacted communities. Technical GHG Appendix B Comments for Building Electrification BE-1 COMMENT:Why are performance targets for commercial and residential buildings not at 100%by 2045? BE-2 COMMENT:It is difficult to align the assumptions with the performance targets.Since the aim is to electrify as many buildings as fast as possible,clearer performance targets that identified type of building,quantity in place in the County,percent still using gas for some or all appliances and percent of the total number of these types of buildings that will be all electric.If the County does not embrace the goal of 100%of residential and nonresidential buildings being all-electric by 2045 (which is our ask),some additional performance targets on specific appliances would be helpful in order to measure the program goals versus the actual results. BE-2 COMMENT:There are no performance measures for low carbon building materials and curricular economic reuse of materials. BE-3 COMMENT It is difficult to align assumptions with performance targets. BE-3 COMMENT:We assume performance targets tie into the specific efforts of the County in this plan;We do not understand how the residential energy provided by MCE is a County measure of success. BE-3 COMMENT:Since we are advocating for 80%of buildings to have solar plus batteries by 2045,we would like to see performance measures that track this.It is confusing to us that there are zero new battery storage systems anticipated for 2045. 7 NO WASTE CONTRA COSTA (NW)P.81 Goal Current Wording:Contra Costa County disposes of no more solid waste than 2.2 pounds per person per day (PPD) Comment We like this measurable goal and it needs a date for achieving it. NW-3:Action Recommendations. New action:Reduction of refrigerants /disposal of equipment with refrigerants. CLEAN TRANSPORTATION NETWORK P.91 Goal Current Wording:Contra Costa County’s transportation network provides safe and accessible options for walking,biking and transit.If residents and workers are driving, they are in zero-emission vehicles. Suggested Goal Wording:Reduce VMT by providing a county transportation network with safe and accessible options for walking,biking and transit.Residents and workers are driving less and are driving zero-emission vehicles. TR-1 Action recommendations: New action :By 2040,132 miles of biking and walking lanes,prioritizing functional areas like neighborhoods over recreational areas,will be built,improving the viability of walking,biking, and zero emissions commuting in the County. New Action:(between current 3rd and 4th points).Encourage CCTA,Jurisdictions,and the County to add continuous bike lanes on all designated Routes of Regional Significance in the County.Where these Routes of Regional Significance are on Freeways,add the bike lanes to public streets that closely parallel the freeway. Point 4 Existing Wording:In collaboration with key partners,support efforts to establish or join a shared mobility program that provides access to conventional bicycles,e-bikes,and other micro mobility modes. Point 4 Suggested Wording:In collaboration with key partners,support efforts to establish or join a shared mobility program that provides access to conventional bicycles,e-bikes,and other micro mobility modes,prioritizing access for low income residents who do not have bicycles. Establish bike repair programs. New Action:Support CCTA,jurisdictions,the County,and regional transit agencies in providing “last mile”transportation connections and options,publicizing them,and encouraging their use. 8 TR-2 Action recommendations: Point 3 Existing Wording:Provide incentives for zero-emission vehicles in partnership with MCE,BAAQMD,and other agencies. Point 3 Suggested Wording:Educate and promote the access to incentives for zero-emission vehicles and chargers in partnership with MCE,BAAQMD,and other agencies, prioritizing low income residents. New action:Work with owners of existing multi-unit properties,and other potential partners,to provide for the installation of plug-in vehicle charging stations in and near multifamily dwelling units.Consider financial incentives and the easing of permitting requirements. New Action:Ban all new gas stations. New Action:Encourage the installation of CD Fast Charging facilities,especially in close proximity to freeways. Technical GHG Appendix B Comments for Transportation. TR-2 Data Activity Savings Table COMMENT:For the county fleet VMT stays the same (14260)-no reduction,just moved to EV.Should there not be an effort to reduce VMT overall? COMMENT:Confusion between county employees and community -can metric state clearly when it is county employees vs.community. TR-2 All tables. COMMENTS: This goal aims to transition vehicles to electric power.We would like more ambitious assumptions for adoption of all electric,especially for County vehicles and lawn and garden uses.It is our view that electric applications will move swiftly and enable adoption in all vehicle types.Here is an article on how even construction equipment is going electric.https://electrek.co/2023/06/14/the-construction-industry-is-switching-to-electric-equipme nt-heres-why/#:~:text=From%20demolition%20and%20mining%20to,choice%20in%20the%20n ear%20future. Further,we would like to see avoidance of biomethane.The assumptions and performance targets show an increase.Is the County planning on using biomethane from County sources? 9 As mentioned in this article by the Union of Concerned Scientists,biomethane in transportation is laden with problems of supply and biomethane is much better used in developing batteries/other applications than in vehicle fuel. https://www.ucsusa.org/sites/default/files/attach/2017/05/Promises-and-limits-of-Biomethane-fac tsheet.pdf. We would like to see more bicycle lanes as a performance target for 2045 as we are asking for 132 bike lanes to be in place by 2040.(Since the State of California adopted The Complete Streets Act,every public street that is resurfaced/restriped must accommodate all road users, not just automobiles,so it seems timely to have a bolder target.) Performance Targets for Bicycle mode appear to be low.Suggest 2%by 2030 and 10%by 2045.We are just at the beginning of lots of electric bicycles and micro mobility and the behavior of active transportation over the next 20 years will increase substantially. RESILIENT COMMUNITIES AND NATURAL INFRASTRUCTURE NI-4 Current Strategy Wording:Sequester carbon on natural and working lands in Contra Costa County. NI-4:New Strategy Suggested wording:Naturally sequester carbon on natural and working lands in Contra Costa County. Point 8 Existing Wording:Consider the development of carbon offset protocols and guidance for use by carbon sequestration program applicants and County permitting staff to promote appropriate sequestration on natural and developed lands. COMMENT:We request deleting the above Action and any others in the plan that relate to offsets.We do not support use of offsets,because they continue pollution in impacted communities,and it is difficult,if not impossible,to demonstrate that an actual new GHG emissions reductions have occurred (that would not have occurred in the absence of the “offset” program). CLIMATE EQUITY (CE)P.123 CE-1 Action recommendations: Point 7 Existing Wording:Provide support for State and federal programs that support family-sustaining jobs in sustainable industries,efforts to support organized labor,and living wage labor standards. 10 Point 7 Suggested Wording:Provide support for State and federal programs that support family-sustaining jobs in sustainable industries,efforts to support organized labor,and living wage labor standards.Enact policies requiring labor standards for all County contracts. CE-2 Action recommendations: Point7 Existing Wording:Amend the County investment policy to consider the use of Environmental,Social,and Governance criteria and to continue and improve efforts to divest from fossil fuels. COMMENT:We are not clear on the County’s current commitment to divestment,but the aim should be divestment. CE-4 Action recommendations: Point 3 Exisitng Wording:Encourage major supermarkets to locate in Impacted Communities. Point 3 Suggested Wording:Identify and reach out to major supermarkets to promote their location in Impacted Communities. CE-5:Ensure that large industrial facilities act as good neighbors. COMMENT:Define what a good neighbor is. LEADERSHIP STRATEGIES (L)P.132 L-1:Establish Contra Costa County as a leader among local governments for addressing climate issues.p132. Comment:No action addresses County Leadership in operations aiming at carbon neutrality via electrifying buildings.We note that actions to increase County government EV use appear to be covered elsewhere.This plan needs a summary of actions on how County operations themselves will measurably reduce GHG emissions and by when. L-1 Actions Recommendations Point 1 Existing Wording:Continue to publicize and support the operations of the County’s Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force and Green Government Group (G3)Champions Point 1 Suggested Wording:Link the work of the County’s Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force and Green Government Group (G3)Champions groups to the goals of the CAP and related sections in the General Plan. 11 IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES (IS)P.135 IS-1 Action recommendations: Point 4 Existing Wording:Continue to prepare an annual progress report on implementation of the recommended GHG emissions reduction strategies and progress toward the 2024 CAP goals.When information is available,provide updates on estimated GHG emissions reductions and current GHG emissions levels. Point 4 Suggested wording:Add:This report will be presented to the Board of Supervisors and distributed widely in the community,including through the Sustainability Newsletter and in an easily found place on the County website. Point 6 Existing Wording:Use the 2024 CAP implementation and monitoring tool to track GHG benefits from 2024 CAP implementation and identify progress toward the 2024 CAP reduction goals. Point 6 Suggested wording:Develop a publicly shared dashboard to track GHG reductions and benefits of these reductions per the aims of the 2024 CAP.The dashboard,will be updated in real time intervals to show progress toward GHG reductions and related benefits.We recommend posting this on the County web site,as this example from San Jose: https://www.sanjoseca.gov/your-government/departments-offices/environmental- services/climate-smart-san-jos/climate-smart-data-dashboard) IS-3 Action recommendations: Point 1 Existing Wording:Identify funding sources and levels for reduction strategies as part of annual reporting. Point 1 Suggested wording:County DCD will provide support and leadership to track funding sources and encourage development of project-ready ideas that can compete for competitive funding opportunities.DCD and other departments will continue to cultivate and create relationships with community,private sector and other government partners to ensure best project plans requiring collaborative efforts are developed. Point 3 Existing Wording:Pursue local,regional,state,and federal grants to support implementation. Point 3 Suggested wording:DCD will build upon or create a funding source tracking tool,alert key units and departments about imminent opportunities for pursuit of local,regional,state and federal grant opportunities to support implementation. NEW action:Explore opportunities for a climate bond,and report to the BOS on possible options. 12 IS-4:Continue to update the baseline emissions inventory and Climate Action Plan every five years. COMMENT:Is current best practice for municipalities to still update emissions inventories every five years?Since early progress is most important,is there feasibility and benefits to updating in 3 years? Table 12 Work Plan (P135) Time Frame:The year by which a strategy should be effective by fiscal year ’s end.The exact status of a strategy will vary based on its actions,and many strategies will be ongoing through and beyond 2030.An effective strategy will be one that is actively on track to achieve its GHG emissions reductions,support adaptation to climate change effects,or achieve long-term resilience.For a strategy to be effective,the necessary programs and efforts should be active, and any infrastructure or other capital improvements should be in place.The effective year is not the end year—many of the strategies are intended to remain in effect for the foreseeable future,so they do not have end dates.Time frames for effectively setting up the strategies are: ●Near Term (by 2026) ●Mid-term (by 2028) ●Long Term (by 2030) COMMENT:The matrix seems to cover action information that is covered,for the most part,in other sections of the plan.The use of near term,mid term and long term is confusing.If these truly are start dates for the strategies,some seem to be started quite late. A first year or two year work plan would be preferable with measurable milestones,timeline,and designation of what unit or department is responsible.Using a smart objectives framework would be clearest.It could still acknowledge plan fluidity based uncertainties that may hinder progress,or present new opportunities to move faster.This works especially well if the Strategies are higher level measurable results that the work plan can track against. We thank the County for the opportunity to provide feedback on the CAP.We the undersigned are offering the above comments and suggested changes to the Climate Action Plan: Marti Roach and Lisa Jackson,350 Contra Costa Action Denice Dennis,1000 Grandmothers For Future Generations Shoshana Wechsler,Sunflower Alliance Bruce Ohlson,Bike East Bay Jan Warren,Chair,Interfaith Climate Action Network 13 Benisa Berry,Center for Human Development and East County Community Leaders Network Climate Justice Ministry Team,Mount Diablo Unitarian Universalist Church. Mark Van Landuyt,Mount Diablo Sierra Group Bill Olson,Citizens Climate Lobby -Contra Costa Chapter Paul Seger,Sierra Club Delta Regional Group. Martha Kreeger,Sierra Club,SF Bay Chapter Arthur Bart-Williams,GRID Alternatives Sheila Tarbet,Elders Climate Action,NorCal Chapter Victor Flores,Greenbelt Alliance Fred Bialy,Lynda Deschambault,Brenna Shafizadeh,Climate Reality Contra Costa County Policy Action Squad Doug Bleakly,Sustainable Contra Costa Lynda Deschambault,Contra Costa County Climate Leaders Ali Uscilka,Healthy &Active Before 5 14 Alamo Improvement Association SERVING ALAMO SINCE 1955 P.O. BOX 156 • Alamo, California 94507 March 26, 2024 By Email to “John.Kopchik@dcd.cccounty.us” John Kopchik, Director Department of Conservation & Development 30 Muir Road Martinez, CA 94553 RE: AIA Comments on the Public Review Draft of the County General Plan Dear Mr. Kopchik: Following are comments of the Alamo Improvement Association on the October 2023 Public Review Drafts of the Contra Costa County General Plan and Climate Action Plan: Stronger Communities Element – Alamo-Castle Hill Community Profile 1. Policy 6: The words “minor, localized” should be added so that it reads: “Maintain Danville Boulevard and Stone Valley Road as two-lane roadways outside of Alamo’s business district. Support minor, localized infrastructure and roadway improvements, including potential turn lanes and other strategies to improve traffic flow”. This is essentially language from the current General Plan. Land Use Element 2. Table LU-1, Land Use Designations: a. Residential Low Density (RL) land use designation: R-12 zoning should be removed as consistent with the Residential Low Density (RL) land use designation. 12,000 sq. ft. lots produce a 3.6 du/ac net density, which exceeds the maximum 3 du/ac density for this designation. b. Residential Low-Medium land use designation: R-15 zoning should be added as consistent with this designation. The description of the designation states that it typically includes lots from 6,000 to 15,000 sq. ft. c. Mixed-Use Community-Specific Density land use designation: The description of this designation does not clarify whether the maximum residential density and the maximum commercial FAR are additive on a given site. For Alamo, the proposed range of residential density is 22 to 40 du/ac and the maximum commercial FAR is 1.75. The intensity of these two combined in Alamo’s downtown area would be extreme, and far too John Kopchik Department of Conservation & Development March 26, 2024 Page 2 intense for the current or foreseeable infrastructure. Commercial development with a 1.75 FAR over the areas proposed would be too intense by itself. The maximum commercial FAR should be 1.25-1.5. There should also be some form of balancing formula that reduces the allowable commercial FAR as the residential density increases (e.g. 40-30 du/ac-0 FAR; 30-22 du/ac-0.5 FAR; 22-1 du/ac-1.0 FAR; 0 du/ac if allowed-1.5 FAR). 3. The Urban Limit Line (ULL) and Non-Urban Land Use Designations: The Plan does not explain why the total land within the Urban Limit Line and city-adopted Urban Growth Boundaries is 47% of the area of the county, even though Measures C-1990 and L-2006 limited the urban use of the county to 35% of its area and created an Urban Limit Line to define that area. The Plan states that "The County and cities must work cooperatively to maintain over 60,000 acres within the ULLs/UGBs under non-urban land use designations.” The intent of the ULL to be the mechanism to maintain the 35%/65% balance of urban and rural uses seems to have been lost. The Plan references no other compulsory mechanism or single point of responsibility for monitoring and preventing changes that would exceed the 35% limit of urban land use. The Plan should create such a mechanism. 4. Action LU-A5.2 (Regarding Reducing or Eliminating Minimum Parking Requirements): This action specifies that at least every five years the County intends to evaluate its off-street parking standards. It further states that “Each evaluation should assess the appropriateness of reducing or eliminating parking minimums, taking off-site impacts into account, and recommend strategies for reducing parking demand”. The need for parking varies between communities, depending on geography, density, and availability of transportation alternatives. The words “and the variation in parking needs between communities” should be added such that the phrase reads “Each evaluation should assess the appropriateness of reducing or eliminating parking minimums, taking off-site impacts and the variation in parking needs between communities into account, and recommend strategies for reducing parking demand”. Conservation & Open Space Element 5. Add a Policy Regarding the Urban/Suburban Tree Canopy: Add a policy to the Conservation and Open Space Element regarding the importance, protection, and enhancement of the county’s existing tree canopy as a whole. Such language might read as follows: “Recognize the scenic, climatic and environmental values provided by existing urban and suburban tree canopies as a whole and consider actions to protect and enhance the urban/suburban forests in John Kopchik Department of Conservation & Development March 26, 2024 Page 3 the County for both native and non-native trees, through public and private preservation and conservation." 6. Action COS-A6.1 (Regarding Updated the County’s Tree Protection Ordinance): Add the words “considering all tree species” such that the action reads: “Update County Ordinance Code Chapter 816-6 – Tree Protection and Preservation, to enhance tree protections and strengthen mitigation requirements/restitution for tree removal, considering all tree species”. 7. Action COS-A14.7 (Regarding Conversion of Existing Homes and Businesses to Use Low- or Zero-carbon appliances): The action currently reads: “Create a detailed roadmap to convert existing homes and businesses to use low- or zero- carbon appliances. The roadmap should include steps to support converting buildings to rely on low- or zero-carbon energy using an equitable framework that minimizes the risk of displacement or significant disruptions to existing tenants.” Add to the end of the current language the words: “Monitor the electrical grid’s sources of electrical generation and ability to deliver increased electrical energy. Adjust the pace of gas-to-electric conversion in the county such that conversions do not overload the grid or reduce reliability. (This comment also applies to similar policies/actions in the Climate Action Plan) Sincerely, Roger Smith President cc: Supervisor Candace Andersen (by email) Will Nelson ( “ ) Cameron Collins ( “ ) Alamo MAC Members (by bcc email) AIA Board & Planning Committee (by email) 1 From:Email Request Sent:Wednesday, April 3, 2024 10:24 AM To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: end fossil fuel extraction, transport, and processing in Contra Costa County From: Chris Lish <lishchris@yahoo.com> Sent: Wednesday, April 3, 2024 10:24:10 AM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Subject: end fossil fuel extraction, transport, and processing in Contra Costa County Wednesday, April 3, 2024 To Contra Costa County Council: I strongly support the new, revised policy on oil and gas drilling and appreciate that county staff has been listening to county residents and residents of neighboring counties calling for an oil and gas drilling in Contra Costa. I strongly support the commitment to develop a feasibility study and a new land use ordinance that would amend the County Ordinance Code to prohibit development of new oil and gas wells and phase out existing oil and gas well operations. Please implement a moratorium to prevent any more permit approval while the new ordinance is developed. Communities adjacent to Contra Costa oil fields must be fully protected while the new policy is created. I am pleased to see an implicit acknowledgement of the health and safety dangers of oil and gas drilling in the inclusion of 3,200-foot setbacks, but would like even stronger protection in place. Current research shows that a 3,200-foot setback from drilling sites is actually on the lower end of the range of distances that could reduce the harmful health and quality of life impacts from toxic emissions and exposures. A 2021 Stanford study found negative health impacts within a 2.5-mile radius from oil and gas facilities. The state investigatory panel that declared 3,200-foot setbacks the minimum protective distance also found that the most health-protective approach is no drilling at all. Current oil and gas production in the County is woefully under-monitored by state regulators, leaving Contra Costa residents at risk. Please add a requirement for regular, periodic monitoring of existing oil and gas infrastructure by County Hazardous Materials staff of methane and other dangerous emissions. Thank you for your consideration of my comments. Please do NOT add my name to your mailing list. I will learn about future developments on this issue from other sources. Sincerely, Christopher Lish You don't often get email from lishchris@yahoo.com. Learn why this is important April 4, 2024 VIA ELECTRONIC MAIL Attn: Will Nelson (AdvancePlanning@dcd.cccounty.us) Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development 30 Muir Road Martinez, CA 94553 Dear Mr. Nelson: Subject: Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan and Climate Action Plan Draft Environmental Impact Report The Alameda County Water District (ACWD) wishes to thank you for the opportunity to comment on the Draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR) prepared for the Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan and Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan 2024 Updates (Draft EIR). ACWD appreciates that the County of Contra Costa (County) recognizes that the need for climate action throughout the region requires coordination amongst different jurisdictions and across sectors, such as ACWD. ACWD also appreciates that the County recognizes the importance of a low-carbon, sustainable, and resilient future especially as it relates to water supply and conservation. The District therefore supports the update and adoption of the 2024 Climate Action Plan and applauds the County’s efforts to achieve carbon neutrality. ACWD staff has reviewed the Draft EIR and offer the following comments for your consideration: 1) Water Quality a)Climate Action Plan 2024 Update, Chapter 6, Table 12, DR-1 and DR-2: Ensure sustainable and diverse water supplies; 2045 General Plan, Goal COS-7, Policies COS-P7.1, COS-P7.9, PFS-4.2, SC-P4.4: ACWD is supportive of water reuse. However, ACWD notes that water reuse applied for outdoor irrigation that is not full advanced treatment may contribute per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to the Alameda Creek watershed runoff. ACWD recommends that any expanded application of recycled water for irrigation use require appropriate Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development Page 2 April 4, 2024 measures to prevent impacts to runoff water quality. ACWD also recommends coordinating water reuse water quality with other interested parties in the Alameda Creek watershed, such as other water and wastewater utilities in Alameda County. The following ACWD contacts are provided so the County can coordinate with ACWD as needed in reviewing these comments and coordinating on future efforts: Thomas Niesar, Water Supply and Planning Manager, at (510) 668-6549, or by e-mail at thomas.niesar@acwd.com, for coordination regarding water supply planning. Again, thank you for the opportunity to comment on the Draft Environmental Impact Report prepared for the Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan and Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan 2024 Updates. Sincerely, Laura J. Hidas Director of Water Resources al/tn cc: Thomas Niesar, ACWD 1 715 P Street, 15-300 Sacramento, CA 95814 916.445.5511 DELTACOUNCIL.CA.GOV CHAIR Vacant MEMBERS Diane Burgis Frank C. Damrell, Jr. Ben Hueso Julie Lee Maria Mehranian Daniel Zingale EXECUTIVE OFFICER Jessica R. Pearson April 4, 2024 Will Nelson County of Contra Costa Department of Conservation and Development 30 Muir Street Martinez, CA 94553 Delivered via email: AdvancePlanning@dcd.cccounty.us RE: Comments on Draft Environmental Impact Report for the County 2045 General Plan and Climate Action Plan Update, SCH# 2023090467. Dear Will Nelson: Thank you for the opportunity to review and comment on the County of Contra Costa Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR) for the 2045 General Plan and Climate Action & Adaptation Plan Update (2045 General Plan). The Council recognizes that the objective(s) of the County’s General Plan and Climate Action Plan Update (project) are to determine the extent and types of development needed to achieve the community’s long-range vision for physical, economic, social, and environmental goals, achieve compliance with applicable State and regional policies and provide the basis for establishing and setting priorities for detailed programs. The Council is an independent state agency established by the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Reform Act of 2009, Wat. Code, sections 85000 et seq. (Delta Reform Act). The Delta Reform Act charges the Council with furthering California’s coequal goals of providing a more reliable water supply and protecting, restoring, and Will Nelson Draft Environmental Impact Report for the County of Contra Costa 2045 General Plan and Climate Action Plan Update April 4, 2024 Page 2 enhancing the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta (Delta) ecosystem, which are to be achieved in a manner that protects and enhances the unique cultural, recreational, natural resource, and agricultural values of the Delta as an evolving place. (Wat. Code, § 85054.) The Council is charged with furthering California’s coequal goals for the Delta through the adoption and implementation of the Delta Plan, a comprehensive long- term management plan for the Delta and Suisun Marsh. (Wat. Code, § 85300) The Delta Plan contains regulatory policies, which are set forth in California Code of Regulations, title 23, section 5001 et seq. The Delta Reform Act granted the Council specific regulatory and appellate authority over certain actions of State or local public agencies that take place in whole or in part in the Delta (“covered actions”). (Wat. Code, §§ 85210, 85225, 85225.10.) A state or local public agency that proposes to undertake a covered action is required to prepare a written Certification of Consistency with detailed findings as to whether the covered action is consistent with the Delta Plan and submit that certification to the Council prior to initiating the implementation of the project. (Wat. Code, § 85225) The Delta Reform Act also directs the Council to review and provide timely advice to local and regional planning agencies regarding the consistency of local and regional planning documents with the Delta Plan. The Council’s input includes, but is not limited to, reviewing the consistency of local and regional planning documents with the ecosystem restoration needs of the Delta and reviewing whether the lands set aside for natural resource protection are sufficient to meet the Delta’s ecosystem needs. (Wat. Code, §85212) COVERED ACTION DETERMINATION AND CERTIFICATION OF CONSISTENCY WITH THE DELTA PLAN Based on the project location and project description provided in the DEIR, the project appears to meet the definition of a covered action. Water Code section 85057.5(a) states that a covered action is a plan, program, or project, as defined by the California Environmental Quality Act (Public Resources Code section 21065), that meets all of the following conditions: (1) Will occur, in whole or in part, within the boundaries of the Delta or Suisun Marsh. The 2045 General Plan planning area includes lands within the unincorporated area of Contra Costa County. A portion of the planning Will Nelson Draft Environmental Impact Report for the County of Contra Costa 2045 General Plan and Climate Action Plan Update April 4, 2024 Page 3 area is located within the Delta, and thus, the project would occur in part within the boundaries of the Delta. (2) Will be carried out, approved, or funded by a State or a local public agency. The 2045 General Plan and Climate Action Plan and DEIR would be approved and carried out by the County, a local public agency. (3) Is covered by one of the provisions of the Delta Plan. As described below, the project is covered by, and aligned with multiple Delta Plan regulatory policies. (4) Will have a significant impact on achievement of one or both of the coequal goals or the implementation of government-sponsored flood control programs to reduce risks to people, property, and State interests in the Delta. The project may have a significant impact on the achievement of the coequal goal to protect, restore, and enhance the Delta ecosystem and the implementation of government sponsored flood control programs in the Delta. The State or local agency approving, funding, or carrying out the project must file a Certification of Consistency with the Council prior to project implementation. (Wat. Code, § 85225; Cal. Code Regs., tit. 23, § 5001(k)(3).) POTENTIALLY APPLICABLE DELTA PLAN POLICIES The following section describes the Delta Plan regulatory policies that may apply to the project based on the information in the DEIR. Governance Policy 1: Detailed Findings to Establish Consistency with the Delta Plan Delta Plan Policy G P1 (Cal. Code Regs., tit. 23, § 5002) specifies what must be addressed in a Certification of Consistency by a certifying agency for a project that is a covered action. The following is a subset of policy requirements that a project must fulfill to be considered consistent with the Delta Plan: Mitigation Measures Delta Plan Policy G P1(b)(2) (Cal. Code Regs., tit. 23, § 5002(b)(2)) requires covered actions not exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) to include all applicable feasible mitigation measures adopted and Will Nelson Draft Environmental Impact Report for the County of Contra Costa 2045 General Plan and Climate Action Plan Update April 4, 2024 Page 4 incorporated into the Delta Plan as amended April 26, 2018 (unless the measures are within the exclusive jurisdiction of an agency other than the agency that files the Certification of Consistency), or substitute mitigation measures that the agency finds are equally or more effective. These mitigation measures are identified in Delta Plan Appendix O and are available at: https://deltacouncil.ca.gov/pdf/delta-plan/2018-appendix-o- mitigation-monitoring-and-reporting-program.pdf. The DEIR does not propose mitigation measures for the project. Rather, the DEIR considers that all potentially significant impacts are minimized to the greatest extent feasible through general plan policies and actions, and that no feasible mitigation is available. Council staff is available to engage in early consultation on this matter. Best Available Science Delta Plan Policy G P1(b)(3) (Cal. Code Regs., tit. 23, § 5002(b)(3)) requires actions subject to Delta Plan regulations to document the use of best available science as relevant to the purpose and nature of the project. The Delta Plan defines best available science as “the best scientific information and data for informing management and policy decisions.” (Cal. Code Regs, tit. 23, § 5001(f)). Best available science is also required to be consistent with the guidelines and criteria in Appendix 1A of the Delta Plan (https://deltacouncil.ca.gov/pdf/delta-plan/2015-appendix-1a.pdf) and in the Delta Plan regulations (Cal. Code Regs., tit. 23, appen. 1a). This policy generally requires that the process used by the County to analyze project alternatives, impacts, and mitigation measures for the project be clearly documented in the DEIR and supporting record, and effectively communicated to foster improved understanding and informed decision- making, meeting the criteria in Appendix 1A. Delta as Place Policy 1: Locate New Urban Development Wisely and Risk Reduction Policy 2: Require Flood Protection for Residential Development in Rural Areas Certain Delta Plan regulatory policies make allowances for certain actions occurring within Contra Costa County’s 2006 voter approved urban limit line (Cal. Code Regs., Will Nelson Draft Environmental Impact Report for the County of Contra Costa 2045 General Plan and Climate Action Plan Update April 4, 2024 Page 5 tit 23, § 5010(a)(2), § 5013(a)(2). Specifically, Delta Plan Policy DP P1, limits new residential, commercial, and industrial development to, in relevant part: 1) areas that city or county general plans, as of May 16, 2013, designate for residential, commercial, and industrial development in cities or their spheres of influence; and 2) areas within Contra Costa County’s 2006 voter-approved urban limit line, except that no new residential, commercial, and industrial development may occur on Bethel Island unless it is consistent with the Contra Costa County general plan effective as of May 16, 2013 (Cal. Code Regs., tit. 23, § 5010 and Appendix 7). Delta Plan Policy RR P2, requires a minimum level of flood protection for residential development of five or more parcels but does not apply to areas within Contra Costa County’s 2006 voter-approved urban limit line, except Bethel Island (Cal. Code Regs., tit. 23, § 5013). The 2045 General Plan goals appear to align with provisions of DP P1 and RR P2 through Land Use Element goals, such as, Goal LU-6 “Effective coordination with other agencies to ensure consistent planning, service delivery, and community development”, and Goal LU-10 “Rural, agricultural, and open space areas that provide scenic value, support Delta ecosystem health, and meet the needs of the agricultural industry”. Under the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element sections, Goal COS-2 “A thriving, and resilient agricultural sector based on resource conservation and sustainability practices, Goal COS-5 “Protected and restored watercourses, riparian corridors, and wetland areas that improve habitat, water quality, wildlife diversity, stormwater flows, and scenic values”, and Goal COS- 9 “Protected, preserved, and enhanced scenic quality, recreational value, and natural resources of the San Francisco Bay/Sacramento San Joaquin Delta estuary system and shoreline” also align with Delta Plan policies DP P1 and DP P2. Lastly, the Health and Safety Element Goal HS-6 “Resilient and thriving Bayshore and Delta communities that are safeguarded and adaptively managed for rising sea levels”, would align with the achievement of DP P1 and RR P2. The DEIR provides the following statement (p. 5.11-20,21): Delta Plan Policy DP P1 requires that any new residential, commercial, or industrial development must be limited to areas within the Urban Limit Line (ULL), and also specifies that no new residential, commercial, or industrial development may occur on Bethel Island, even though it is inside the ULL, unless it is consistent with the existing General Plan. Although the proposed General Plan would redistribute Will Nelson Draft Environmental Impact Report for the County of Contra Costa 2045 General Plan and Climate Action Plan Update April 4, 2024 Page 6 some of the existing General Plan development capacity on Bethel Island by expanding commercial uses and reducing residential uses, the proposed General Plan does not allow a net increase in allowed development on the island. Therefore, the proposed General Plan is consistent with Policy DP P1. DP P1 covers any new residential, commercial, and industrial development on Bethel Island that is inconsistent with the Contra Costa County general plan effective as of May 16, 2013. The County should include substantial evidence in the record, including this potential finding, in a future certification of consistency for Delta Plan Policy DP P1. The proposed 2045 General Plan includes additional actions which address the Delta Plan and related Council initiatives. Specifically, “Action HS-6.4 Coordinate with the BCDC, Delta Stewardship Council, and other involved agencies and stakeholders to create a joint-powers authority or public-private partnership to develop, fund, and implement measures that leverage the results of Adapting to Rising Tides, Bay Adapts, and other studies and programs”, and Policy LU-P6.1 “Ensure that County projects and decisions on private development and land use activities within the Legal Delta are consistent with a; The Land Use and Resource Management Plan for the Primary Zone of the Delta adopted by the Delta Protection Commission, (b) The Delta Plan adopted by the Delta Stewardship Council”. The Council appreciates the County’s effort to incorporate these and other provisions of the Delta Plan in the 2045 General Plan, notes that the County has continued to refer projects to the Council for review as described above, and thanks the County for its continued engagement in our Delta Adapts Adaptation Plan. We encourage the County to submit a certification of consistency to the Council using these and other goals, actions, and policies that would demonstrate how the 2045 General Plan is consistent with the Delta Plan. CLOSING COMMENTS More information on covered actions, early consultation, and the certification process can be found on the Council website, https://coveredactions.deltacouncil.ca.gov. Council staff are available to discuss the issues outlined in this letter as the County proceeds in the next stages of its project Will Nelson Draft Environmental Impact Report for the County of Contra Costa 2045 General Plan and Climate Action Plan Update April 4, 2024 Page 7 and approval processes. Please contact Pat Kelly at patricia.kelly@deltacouncil.ca.gov with any questions. Sincerely, Jeff Henderson Deputy Executive Officer Jeff.Henderson@deltacouncil.ca.gov 1 From:Email Request Sent:Thursday, April 4, 2024 10:04 AM To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: Draft County Climate Action Plan Comments From: Denice A Dennis <deniceadennismph@gmail.com> Sent: Thursday, April 4, 2024 10:03:41 AM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Cc: John Gioia <John.Gioia@bos.cccounty.us>; Supervisor Federal Glover <DistrictFive@bos.cccounty.us>; Gail Gordon <gailsusangordon@gmail.com>; Marinell Daniel <marinelldaniel@gmail.com> Subject: Draft County Climate Action Plan Comments Dear staff and members of the Board of Supervisors Sustainability Committee, This letter is official comment on the draft County Climate Action Plan. This letter focuses on several “high level” concerns with the current draft of the County’s Climate Action Plan related to its purpose. 1) Various Implementation and Performance Targets are contained in three separate sections of the document. In order to convey all implementation activities and performance targets, we strongly recommend that Chapter 4 and Chapter 5 Strategies, Chapter 6 2024 CAP Implementation Matrix, and Appendix B Key Assumptions and Performance Targets Sections, are all (minimally) cross-referenced. This would convey the fuller picture of the plan’s strategies, what actually needs to be accomplished to reduce the sta ted greenhouse gas emissions, and how success will be measured, for all of the community, including residents, staff, Commissioners and the Board of Supervisors. As currently presented, the GHG Reduction Strategies described in Chapters 4 and 5 of the plan are also listed in a completely separate document, Chapter 6, 2024 CAP IMPLEMENTATION MATRIX, which includes additional information. Actual “Key Assumptions” and “Performance Measures” required to achieve the projected GHG emissions reductions assumed for each strategy are embedded in yet another section of the document within Appendix B, beginning on page 244 of the PDF. According to the narrative contained in Appendix B, the Appendix includes the “Key Assumptions made about the strategy’s performance, such as the level of community participation required to achieve the specified reductions by 2030 and 2045”. It also contains the “Performance Targets, which are quantifiable metrics about the projected level of success the strategy must meet to achieve the specified reductions by 2030 and 2045”. Both the Key Assumptions and Performance Targets are absolutely necessary in evaluating the success of each GHG reduction strategy listed. Yet they are contained in an Appendix, and are separated from the “Key Performance Metrics” in the Implementation Plan. 2. The 2024 CAP and Carbon Neutrality Section of the CAP (page 104 of Plan/page 122 PDF) contains other areas of concern: a)The stated possible inability to reach GHG reduction targets in line with the state by 2045 with tools available now. We are in an urgent situation—The County needs to prioritize what we can do to move You don't often get email from deniceadennismph@gmail.com. Learn why this is important 2 aggressively on GHG emissions reductions in buildings, waste and transportation and just transition in order to close the gap in the plan. The science shows that have what is needed to do so--we can not rely on hoped-for technological fixes. b) Reliance on “uncertain” carbon sequestration for results. Referenced in the section on The CAP and Carbon Neutrality (p104) are uncertainties around carbon sequestration, storage and carbon offsets as means to reach reduction goals. Industrial carbon capture and storage should not be considered as a possible future solution for GHG reduction in the County. It is expensive, and is unproven in its ability to actually reduce emissions. c) Using offsets is another false approach that only consigns our impacted communities to continued pollution based upon offsets that often cannot be proven to be truly a new reduction in carbon. The plan needs to prioritize direct GHG emission reductions that also improves air quality for the areas of the county with the worst cumulative air pollution. In closing, the Climate Action Plan needs to provide solid, measurable goals to getting the Unincorporated County to the greenhouse gas reductions outlined by the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change—not only for the future of life on this planet, but to provide leadership to the County’s cities and all of California to do the right thing at this urgent moment. We can no longer “kick the can” down the road—Our children and grandchildren need us to step up and do what is needed to respond to this crisis NOW. Toward a healthy and safe future for our children and grandchildren, Denice A. Dennis, MPH, Gail Gordon, LMFT, and Marinell Daniel 1000 Grandmothers for Future Generations From:Email Request To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: Comment on Draft General Plan Date:Thursday, April 4, 2024 5:25:21 PM From: Denice A Dennis <deniceadennismph@gmail.com> Sent: Thursday, April 4, 2024 5:24:59 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request <email@envisioncontracosta2040.org> Cc: John Gioia <John.Gioia@bos.cccounty.us>; Supervisor Federal Glover <DistrictFive@bos.cccounty.us> Subject: Comment on Draft General Plan You don't often get email from deniceadennismph@gmail.com. Learn why this is important This is a comment letter on the Draft 2045 General Plan, specific to COS-A14.1 in Chapter 7 (pg 44) on a new and revised policy on oil and gas drilling. Thank you for including restrictions to gas and oil drilling in the draft General Plan. This section could be strengthened, as current research shows that a 3,200-foot setback from drilling sites is on the lower end of the range of distances that could reduce the harmful health—and quality of life—impacts from toxic emissions and exposures. A 2021 Stanford study found negative health impacts within a 2.5 mile radius from oil and gas facilities. The state investigatory panel that declared 3,200′ setbacks the minimum protective distance also found that the most health- protective approach is actually no drilling at all. The plan proposes a “feasibility study” to create a new land use ordinance to prohibit development of all new oil and gas wells and phase out existing oil and gas well operations. Please consider instituting a moratorium on all new wells NOW to prevent any more permit approvals until new policy is considered and implemented. Communities adjacent to Contra Costa oil fields must be fully protected while new policy is worked up. 1000 Grandmothers urges the County to act swiftly on this policy--Gas and oil drilling is inconsistent with a healthy and livable Contra Costa County, as well as the goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions to reach the minimum reductions required by the state. Our children and grandchildren are depending on us to do the right thing. Denice A. Dennis, MPH 1000 Grandmothers for Future Generations Board of Directors Jim Felton President Giselle Jurkanin Secretary Burt Bassler Treasurer Keith Alley Steve Balling John Gallagher Liz Harvey Roberts Claudia Hein Scott Hein Shirley Langlois Bob Marx Doug Matthew Phil O’Loane Robert Phelps Malcolm Sproul Jeff Stone Achilleus Tiu Directors Staff Directors Edward Sortwell Clement Jr. Executive Director Seth Adams Land Conservation Director Sean Burke Land Programs Director Monica E. Oei Finance & Administration Director Karen Ferriere Development Director Founders Arthur Bonwell Mary L. Bowerman Proud Member of Land Trust Alliance California Council of Land Trusts Together Bay Area April 4th, 2024 Will Nelson, Principal Planner Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development 30 Muir Rd. Martinez, CA, 94553 Save Mount Diablo Comment Letter on Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan Dear Mr. Nelson, Save Mount Diablo (SMD) is a non-profit conservation organization founded in 1971 which acquires land, or interests in land, for conservation purposes and often for addition to parks on and around Mount Diablo. We also monitor land use planning which might affect protected lands. We build trails, restore habitat, and are involved in environmental education. In 1971, there was just one park on Mount Diablo totaling 6,778 acres; today there are almost 50 parks and preserves around Mount Diablo totaling 120,000 acres. We include more than 11,000 donors and supporters. We appreciate the opportunity to comment on the draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan (General Plan). We found during our review that the General Plan contains many positive land use, conservation and transportation goals, policies and actions. We are pleased that the Urban Limit Line is highlighted and that beneficial activities like carbon sequestration and large-scale solar (subject to the Solar Ordinance and its provisions) are called out. Transportation goals and policies encouraging active transportation, support for zero emissions vehicles, and other methods that reduce carbon pollution and increase non-auto dependent travel are also appreciated. Content like causes us to consider the General Plan to be a positive step in the protection of open space, biological and aesthetic resources, and sustainability overall. However, we note that General Plan Figure TR-3 references the James Donlon Boulevard Extension as a Special Planning Area. We suggest removing any references to this project in the General Plan entirely, as it goes against the positive goals and policies found elsewhere in the General Plan because it would cause extreme environmental harm. In addition, its extremely high expense would waste important funds for no reduction in congestion or Vehicle Miles Travelled, as we have commented on extensively in our responses to documents specifically related to James Donlon. Removing references to the James Donlon Boulevard Extension from the General Plan would increase opportunities to focus on more sustainable projects that deliver transportation benefits, cause littler environmental harm, and are much more financially feasible. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comments. Regards, Juan Pablo Galván Martínez Senior Land Use Manager April 5, 2024 Director John Kopchik Department of Conservation & Development, Contra Costa County 30 Muir Road, Martinez, CA 94553 Delivered by email Subject: Comment Period Extension Request Dear Director Kopchik: The East Bay Leadership Council is a nonprofit employer-led organization on a mission to strengthen the economy and improve the quality of life across Contra Costa and Alameda Counties. Over EBLC’s more than 85-year history in the region, we have come to understand the importance of guiding documents like the General Plan and Climate Action Plan (CAP) that set the stage for equitable economic development for decades to come. Today we write to respectfully request that you extend, for an additional 60 days, the comment period for the Contra Costa County updated 2024 Climate Action Plan, Draft 2045 General Plan, and the General Plan and Climate Action Plan Draft Environmental Impact Report. The additional time will be key in facilitating further input from employer stakeholders, discussions with County staff, and increased focus on the integration of equity and economic development in the proposed General Plan and CAP. The East Bay Leadership Council appreciates the work that County staff ha s done to hear from diverse community and employer leaders to date and stands ready to ensure that these additional 60 days are worth the time. We believe that the comments received during this time will be integral to Contra Costa County’s efforts to draft and implement these foundational documents. Sincerely, Mark Orcutt President & CEO East Bay Leadership Council CC: Will Nelson, Principal Planner, Contra Costa County Contra Costa Building and Construction Trades Council 2727 Alhambra Ave. Suite 5 Bill Whitney, CEO Martinez, CA 94553 Phone (925) 925-228-0900 FAX (925) 372-7414 April 5, 2024 SENT VIA EMAIL: Federal.glover@bos.cccounty.com; John.Gioia@bos.cccounty.us; Supervisorcarlson@bos.cccounty.us; diane.burgis@bos.cccounty.us; supervisorandersen@bos.cccounty.us; john.kopchik@dcd.cccounty.us; vanbuskirk1691@gmail.com Re: General Plan/Climate Action Plan Extension Request Dear Chair Glover and Board members, Chair Van Buskirk and Commissioners and Director Kopchik: The Contra Costa Building and Construction Trades represents 35,000 skilled and trained working men and women. Approximately 65% of our members are men and women of color and Indigenous people. We spend tens of millions of dollars annually training the next generation craft men and women in our apprenticeship training facilities. We have created a non-profit organization called CTWI that fosters pre apprenticeship programs in four Bay Area counties. We are committed to a green future that grows well- paying green construction jobs and support a just transition that does not mean “just unemployment” for our members. We are concerned that the Contra Costa County updated 2024 Climate Action Plan (CAP), Draft 2045 General Plan, and the General Plan and Climate Action Plan Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR) do not adequately protect our jobs in the future. As a result, we respectfully request an additional 60-day extension to your comment period that ends Monday, April 8. We apologize that we have not had the opportunity to submit our comments to date. If the additional time is granted, it will provide us with the necessary time to submit thoughtful and helpful comments that will lead to the future adoption of these documents. The Contra Costa Building and Construction Trades respects all the work that has gone into these documents to date and appreciates the work that County staff has done to reach out to the broader Contra Costa community to gain our insights. Thank you for your consideration of the 60-day public comment extension. Sincerely, Bill Whitney Contra Costa Building and Construction Trades Council April 5, 2024 Demian Hardman Jody London Staff Working on CAP Re: Revised and Adopted Comments from the Commission on the Contra Costa County Draft Climate Action Plan 2024. Dear Demian, Jody, and Staff, On March 25, 2024, the Commission met to review and make recommended changes to the draft comment document presented by the Draft CAP Review Working Group. Please find enclosed the revised and adopted comments from the Sustainability Commission on the Draft Climate Action Plan 2024. Sincerely, huz G / Luz Gomez.~ Chair Contra Costa County Sustainability Commission 1 Contra Costa County Sustainability Commission Comments on the DRAFT Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan 2024 General Comments: ■ Increased collaboration and coordination with other Contra Costa county jurisdictions: We propose an implementation strategy where Contra Costa would invite all county jurisdictions annually to share CAP goals, strategies, and actions, review progress made, and act as a resource for each other (similar to the Sustainability Exchange but focused on CAP implementation). ■ Fact sheets and/or summary boxes: We noted that some content could be condensed and simplified into fact sheets or summary boxes at the end of each chapter to aid understanding for readers who are not climate scientists. ■ Online platform: Perhaps we missed a video tutorial for residents to learn how to navigate Konveio. Such a tool could improve user-friendliness for those not familiar with software platforms. ■ 2015 accomplishments: A summary table with key accomplishments from 2015 as well as lessons learned, and course corrections would be appreciated. ■ CAP and General Plan relationship: More detail on the relationship between the CAP and General Plan would be helpful. Is the CAP merely mitigation for emissions created by the GP? How does the GP address climate change in terms of adaptation and resilience? ■ Addressing costs of implementation: Page 131 mentions "relative costs associated with each strategy." Is there information about costs associated with each strategy somewhere in the CAP? ■ Role of Board of Supervisors: While it may be implied that the Board of Supervisors has a role to play in implementing the CAP, it would be important to list them specifically (as you do County Departments) whenever the CAP states that a County policy needs to be changed or adopted. ■ Business as usual: In relevant charts, use the term Business As Usual (BAU) to explain what would happen if the CAP was not implemented. ■ Readability: We believe that readability would be improved if there were less repetition in certain places and more cross-referencing in others. For example, it was not obvious that performance metrics, partners and time frames started on page 140 (Table 12). It would have been helpful to know this while reading 2 earlier sections about the various strategies. This also holds true for key details contained in Appendix B starting on page B-32. ■ Health, socio-economic, and racial equity considerations: Operationalize the inclusion of these considerations in policymaking and climate solutions at all levels and across all sectors given the significant impacts of climate change on all county residents, but especially the young, the elderly, low-income and communities of color, and other vulnerable populations. All CAP strategies need to be assessed for their health, socio-economic and racial equity impacts. Recommended Technical Edits: ■ The report does not identify the methods by which quantities are determined, most obvious with the references within the tables. Although methodologies are covered to some degree in Appendix B, there should be references in the body of the CAP. Overall emissions are summarized without any mention of how these quantities are arrived at, and as this document purports to be scientific and methods-driven, far better documentation is necessary. ■ Values should be expressed as ranges, not precise numbers. Or at least it should be mentioned that these are approximate values. ■ When describing the GHG reduction strategies and actions throughout the document, reference the percentage change that relevant actions will achieve by 2030 and 2045 based on the tables presented in the technical GHG appendix. ■ Nonresidential GHG emissions between 2005 and 2019 increased by 34%, and they are projected to decrease by 93% by 2045, yet we are not told which strategies, policies, or actions will lead to this presumed decrease. These must be clearly indicated. • Table B-2 in Appendix B (page B-6) lists annual MTCO2e emissions from stationary sources as informational items. In 2019 the total emissions from stationary sources alone were over 10 times the total emissions from all other County sectors combined. Rather than burying this information in an appendix, the CAP should address this unfortunate situation head on. Even if gree.nhouse gas emissions from stationary sources are not directly regulated by the County, the public deserves to know what the County is doing to accelerate the transition away from highly polluting industry and to directly compensate for the high level of GHGs it emits. This critical issue deserves its own prominent section in the CAP. We note that in 2015 the CAP highlighted this information. 3 ■ GHG Inventory data update frequency: It is difficult, if not impossible, to track progress in both performance of GHG reduction measures and progress toward milestones if the data is only updated every few years. The Commission recommends at least annual updates. We recognize that the County will need to take into consideration staff capacity and funding to effectively pursue our GHG reduction targets. ■ Wastewater biogas capture: Where is it included? Can we enhance methane capture in the report for wastewater? We would like to see this opportunity for GHG emissions reductions and renewable energy generation. ■ For methane emissions specifically, in Appendix B we suggest a reference to "bottom-up" vs "top-down" methods and that remote sensing data suggest that some sources "bottom-up" inventories are greatly under-estimated. (Ref: Guha, A.; Newman, S.; Fairley, D.; Dinh, T.; Duca, L.; Conley, S.; Smith, M.; Thorpe, A.; Duren, R.; Cusworth, D.; Foster, K.; Fischer, M.; Jeong, S.; Yesiller, N.; Hanson, J.; Martien, P. Assessment of Regional Methane Emissions Inventories through Airborne Quantification in the San Francisco Bay Area. In revision, 2020.) ■ Missing from the draft: reduce or eliminate minimum parking requirements for new developments of certain project types. ■ CAP could address some of the less common, but potentially high impact GHGs, like SF6, and other higher global warming potential gases. Additional recommendations in Order of Appearance in the CAP Title Page -Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan 2024 Update Comment: Consider adding Adaptation to the title . Executive Summary Page ES-2, Table ES-1: TABLE ES-1. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY GHG EMISSIONS ANO EMISSION GOALS# 2019 TO 2045 (MTCOie) 2019 2030 2045 Forecast GHG emissions 1,060,440 1,199,360 1,362,620 Goal None 658,700 164,680 GHG emissions to be reduced N/A 540,660 1,1 97,940 N ote: Numbers rounded to the neore s1 10. - ' Comment: 4 Readers may not understand what is meant by this table. Unless you include in the title "WITHOUT CAP IMPLEMENTATION" readers won't understand why the MTCO2e are forecast to increase from 2019 to 2045. An explanation under the table would be helpful. A good place to introduce the term "business as usual"? TABLE ES-2. 2024 CLIMATE ACTION STRATEGIES Clean and Efficient Built Environment (BE) fJ ! Homes. workplaces. and businesses in unincorporated Contra Costa County run efficiently on clean energy. Clean and Efficient Built Environment Comment: For the descriptive caption, consider adding "and become carbon neutral" after "Homes, workplaces, and businesses in unincorporated Contra Costa County run efficiently on clean energy." Is it just unincorporated, or is it also County Operations? ~.,. ~-----i ---1•,------_...,.,,.-.--------■'I' 1 ~ -r • • -, • ,,,. • • -• ---•1p --• -,--- ,,.. ~. ·No\VJasfe .Contra Costa ·{NW) . I • ! ~ ·,· ---_·-· • .. 1·· Con~ra 'Cor~~ Cpunty :c:Jisp'(?ses ofi .n.o mo_re solid w~ste.than 2.2 pounds per •·. / , persor:, per :d9y (PPD>.-, . .;I."_}-, 1 -_ _i_J,. -:• L =1 -'.._~• 1'' : •• .._-JI_' II I· ~ •II • . No Waste Contra Costa Comment: In the descriptive caption, is it unincorporated Contra Costa and County operations or Contra Costa County? What exactly do we mean by "solid waste"? Is it waste that goes to landfills? ~~-----~ l4iii ... -. ", . Reduce Water Use and Increase Drought Resilience <DR) ;J ~ ~ 1 Contra Costa County uses less water and communities are prepared for drought. ~ ro -, Reduce Water Use and Increase Drought Resilience Comment: Is it Contra Costa County, or is it unincorporated County and County Operations? Climate Equity Comment: 5 Consider adding "utilizing culturally and linguistically appropriate methods" to the descri ption of this section. Page ES-6 FIGURE ES· 1. GHG EMISSIONS WITH 2024 CAP IMPLEMENTATION COMPARED TO REDUCTION GOALS 1,400~000 1,200,000 oi:1,000,000 0 ~ ~ 800,000 1! .2 i 600,000 '1J ~ (!) 4 00,000 200,000 0 -ta Baseline emissions Comment: ------------------- 2017 • 2019 Emissions without CAP 2 2045 Emissions with CAP ••••Goal This table is lacking detail. Consider what the City of El Cerrito has included in the ir Draft CAAP, below. Could our table be more descriptive? 6 160,000 140,000 120,000 100,000 ~ ~ 80,000 ~ 60,000 40,000 20,000 0 2021 Page ES-7 2025 2030 2035 2040 2045 Emissions Avoided Through Federal, State, and Regional Policies • C/J:s Renewables Portfolio Standard • Bay Area Air Quality Management District's Rules 9-4 and 9-6 • Corporate Average Fuel Economy • CA's Low Carbon Fuel Standard • Zero-Emissons by 2035 • CA's Short-Lived Climate Pollutants bill Remaining emissions to address through local policies and action 2050 This 2024 CAP guides new development by introducing strategies that will reduce GHG emissions associated with the built environment. The 2024 CAP is a California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)..qualified Climate Action Plan, which means that future development projects requiring environmental' review under State law can streamline their GHG impact analyses by demonstrating consistency with the 2024 CAP. This streamlining can save time and money during the .environmental review process by aUowing developers to reduce the number of steps involved in the environmental impact assessment process w Comment: Consider including (as an appendix) a checklist for developers, landowners, planners, and others to check against compliance with CAP strategies. See County of LA example here and below: https://planning.lacounty.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/LA-County-2045- CAP Rev PublicDraft AppendixF-Checklist.pdf 7 DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT MEASURE($) f DOCUMENTATION PROJECT 2045 CAP CONSISTENCY REQUIREMENT OF COMPLIANCE/ EXPLANATION OF NON-COMPLIANCE CONSISTENCY . ~ . tep 3: Demonstrate Consistency with the 2045. CAP GHG Emissions Reduction lhasulff and Actions Energy Supply 1. TIER 1: Sunset 011 and Gas Operations For any project involving the decommissioning, replacement, retrofit, or redesign of infrastructure or facilities associated with the oil and gas industry, including energy generation (i.e., cogen), the project must: A) Comply with the Oil Welt Ordinance (Title 22). B) Reduce fOSSil fuel-based emissions by at least 80% compared to existing conditions. C) If the project site includes existing active and abandoned off wells, examine all wells for fugitive emissions of methane. Reduce such existing emissions by a minimum of 80%. D) To reduce any residual fOflil fuel-based emissions generated by the project, incorporate carbon removal technologies including direct air capture and carbon and sequestration, as feasible. Supports 2045 CAP Measures (and Actions): ES1 (ES1.1, ES1 .2, ES1.3) 2. nER 1: Utlllze 100%ZMo-Carbon Electrlclty The project must utilize 100% ZeJO-Qrbon electricity on-site. The project must comply With one of the following options: A) lnstaH on-site renewable energy systems or participate in a community solar program to supply 100% of the project's estimated energy ~mand to the maximum extent feasible, B) Participate in Southern C81 ifotnia Edison at the Green Rate level Page ES-7 Desctfbe wlJich project consi~y options from the letrmost COiumn YoU are implementing. OR, Desctfbe why this actiOtl is not applicable to your project. OR. Describe why such actions are infeasible and Identify the alternative measure proposed a, a l'IJfllacement strategy (provide additiOnat documentatk.Jrl BS described belOw). IN ADDmON, provide documentation of the project's ability to reduce fossil fuel-based emissions, including fugitive methane emissions. Provide the number of oil and gas operatiomllwells closed. Provide documenta.tion of any carbon removal technologies incorporated at the project site. De$Cllbe which project comistency options from the leftmost column YoU ate implementing. OR, Describe why th/$ action is not applicable to your p,ojeet. OR, DeSt:nbe why such ec1Jons ant infeasible and identify the altematiVe measure t»TJIJO$ed ftJtOVide tlddJtiOnsl dacl.lment4tion lis described D Project Complies D Not App licable D Project Does Not Comply and Alternative Measure Proposed D Project Complies D Not Applicable D Project Does Not Comply .and Altematille Measure Proposed County staff will monitor progress and provide regul ar updates to communities to ensure the effec iven ess of ea ch strategy. To ensu r e that the implementation process is efficie nt and transparen he 20 24 CAP includes a htg h leve l i mplementation plan t hat ident ifies responsible County departments,. pa rtners, and time frames associ at ed with each strategy.f Comment: Consider creating an online dashboard to track strategy implementation. See San Jose's dashboard as an example: https://www.sanjoseca.gov/your-government/departments- offices/environmental-services/climate-smart-san-jos/climate-smart-data-dashboard Chapter 1 ------------ 1. PURPOSE Page 5 -Climate Action and Equity 8 The 2024 CAP acknowledges such inequities and recognizes that Contra Costa County ust play a role in resolving them. Though this 2024 CAP cannot solve inequity by itself, it can contribute to a more equitable future by: • Providing resources to persons and communities who have historicaHy been denied them. • Integrating equity considerations into County decision-making processes . • , Supporting Impacted Communities in taking action to address climate change. • Creating a Just Transition that helps address the root causes of climate change and system inequities. • Ensuring that Impacted Communities have a voice in climate action planning through community .. d ·ven planning. Comment: It is difficult for the plan and its actions to be equitable without providing adequate language access. We urge the County to translate 2024 CAP materials into Spanish and to provide comment opportunities in other languages. See El Cerrito's Konveio tool translation button as a one idea (https://elcerritocaap.konveio.com/): © 2024 Konveio Site Terms & Conditions Privacy Policy Login Register Powered by Konveio ~ English ..., <©> We also recommend that in-person, virtual comment, or educational efforts include simultaneous language interpretation in Spanish as well as other best-practice efforts to achieve meaningful community engagement, such as providing stipends, childcare and/or transportation when feasible. Page 9, Table 1: TABLE 1. COMPARISON OF TOPICS IN THE 2045 GENERAL PlAN AND THE 2024 CAP UPDATED GENERAL PLAN 2024 CAP • Housing • Open space and ecological preservation • land use patterns • Agricu lture • Transportation • Flood hazards and sea level rise • W;:itpr rnn'-Prv~tinn ;mrl m 1;:ilitv • Greenhouse gas emissions • Climate change effects and vulnerabilities • Agricultural pests and diseases, air quality, drought, extreme heat. flooding, fog, human health hazards, landslides and debris flows, severe storms, sea level rise, shoreline flooding, and wildfires 9 Comment: We found the comparison table between the General Plan and the CAP to be confusing. It would be most helpful to include on the left column only items in the GP that are not in the CAP, and on the right side, only items in the CAP that are not in the GP. --_-------------------- 2.CLIMATE ACTION FRAMEWORK Page 22, Figure 5: 2022 Ado ·o Comment: This is the first reference to the 2022 all-electric new construction ordinance. Consider adding an asterisk or reference to an explanation of what happened and how Staff is approaching a new plan. Page 26 COUNTY REACH CODES The County has adopted building and energy provisions that go beyond the State's building and energy code s. These amendments to the State codes are comm only called "reach codes" .. Comment: Please update all sections of the CAP that reference the Reach Code in light of Berkeley's lawsuit and the new Board of Supervisors and County Counsel direction to staff. ------------------------------------------------- 3. CLIMATE CHANGES AND GHGS Pages 35 -36 Extreme Heat Comment: Mention the impact of Extreme Heat o n mental health . ---- 10 ~n example of health inequity tied to climate change is that Black Americans have been found to be at a higher risk of illness and death from heat. However, there is no biological basis for this. Instead, this finding has been linked to social factors such as poverty, neighborhood conditions. access to air conditioning, and vehicle ownership. These factors are also associated with higher rates of chronic health conditions among the Black community, including cardiovascular disease and hypertension. Long-standing patterns of racial residential segregation and institutional racism mean that Black individuals disproportionately live in high-poverty, disinvested neighborhoods, regardless of income~ Comment: Expand language from the impact on Black residents to all low-income, impacted communities in the unincorporated areas. It would be important to highlight the impact of extreme heat on farm workers and other outdoor workers. Page 39 Human Health Ha zards There are several diseases that are linked to climate change and can be harmful to the health of Contra Costa County community members. Examples of these diseases include hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, Lyme disease, and West Nile virus, which can be debilitating or fatal for some of the population. These diseases are carried by animals such as mice and rats, ticks, and mosquitos. Ctimate Comment: Consider renaming this section Animal-transmitted Diseases (or Vector Borne Diseases). Incorporate pest pressure and the increasing use of pesticides to combat pests. Consider adding a section about biodiversity loss and the increase in invasive species. Page 44 GHG Inventory The following secti ons present the results of the co mmunity-wide and County operations GHG invento r ies for the years 2005, 2013~ 2017, and 2019. Comment: Total community-wide emissions declined 18 percent from 2005 to 2019. 11 Can we explain here why we don't have a more recent inventory given we're in 2024? What are we doing to have more timely inventories? Page 45 • Agriculture is GH G emissions from various agri cu ltura l activities in the unincorporated county, including agricultural equipment crop cultivation and harvesting, and $vestock operations. Comment: Do we account for GHGs associated with use of ammonia/fertilizers? See: https://energyathaas.wordpress.com/2024/03/11/can-we-electrif y-our-food/ An interesting point to note as the County embarks on a just transition: "Of all the products made by the petrochemical industry, the vast majority -as much as 74% -are either plastics or fertilizers." (https: //www.cam.ac. uk/research/news/carbon-emissions-from-fertilisers-cou Id- be-red uced-by-as-m uch-as-80-by-20 50 ) Page 46 TABLE 3. AB SOLUTE ANNUAL GHG EMIS SIONS# 2005 TO 2019 PERCENTAGE SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 CHANGE., 2005-2019 -· - N o nreside nti a l e nergy 118,740 125 ,350 98,850* 159,52 0 34% Solid waste 243,940 224,570 223,100 220,760 -10% Agricu lture 33,350 39 ,300 44 ,880 36,130 8% Off-road equipment 34,160 36 ,290 42,840 54,010 58% ... -..-....-..A., ...... .,;A,..-,.. .... -. .. """ ......... • .... * Comment: What accounted for the 34% increase in annual emissions from the Nonresidential energy category and 58% increase for the On-road equipment category? These numbers do not seem to make sense to us. Page 48 12 transportation (26 percent}. Emissions 2005 and 2019 were BART. water and wastewater. r eductions also occu rred in the solid residential energ y. and transportation. w as te sector (10 percent} and th e non res idential energy sector (8 percent). These changes are primarily due to an increase in renewable and carbon-free e lectrici ty and better res ource-efficie ncy prac,tices by comm uni ty members. Two sectorsJ off~road eq ui pmen t and ag ricu lture, saw inc reases in their emissions from 2005 to 2019. Detailed summaries of ch a nges in·GH G emi ssions by sector appear in Appendix B. Comment: The table shows an increase of 35% in the nonresidential energy sector, not 8% decrease. It shows increases in 3 sectors, not two. Explain what on-road and off-road equipment means. Question: Are seafaring vessels and their GHG emissions being counted in our inventory? Page 50 Comment: Can we get newer MCE customer percentage data than 2018? Can we also get the percentage subscribing to Deep Green? Do we have a strategy to try to increase Deep Green subscribers? Page 51 COUNTY GOVERNMENTOPERATIONS EMISSIONS INVENTORY Contra Costa Cou nty conducted government operations em is sions inventories in 2006 and 20 17. In 2006, Contra Costa Cou nty government operati ons emissions totaled 54,130 Comment: 13 We notice that the latest inventory here dates to 2017 . This needs an explanation. • The largest sour ce of emissio ns in 2017 is from the Emp loyee Commute sector (25,800 MTCO2e). In the 2006 inventory, Employee Commute is also the largest contributor of GHG em issions {23,530 MTCO2e). Comment: This section could benefit from a paragraph about the pandemic, the County's remote work policy, and the expectation that portions of this inventory would be further reduced by now. Pages 54-56 CONSUMPTION-BASED I VENTORY EMISSIONS Comment: This section can use some editing. Decrease repetition. And provide context. Residents need to really understand the per-household consumption emissions relative to other areas in CA (and how they compare to the per-person CO2 emissions mentioned earlier). Page 58 GHG Forecast ABSOLUTE GHG EMISSIONS FORECAST TA8LE 7. ABSOLUTE G HG EMISSIONS FORECAST, 20 19 TO 2045 SECTOR 2019 2030 2045 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2019-2045 T ra nspo rt ofi o n 464,040 542,020 605,080 30% Res identi al enerov 191,780 217,710 259,380 35% N onres identi a l enerQy 159,520 167 ,720 180,200 13% Solid waste 220,760 229,450 260,490 18% Agri cu lture 36,130 34 ,77 0 33,410 -8% Off-road equipme nt 54,010 69,520 76 ,100 .'41% Water and wastewater 4,870 5,530 6,590 35% BART 190 220 260 37% land use and sequestration -70,860 -67,580 -58,890 -17% Tota l An nual MTCO2e 1,060,440 1,199,360 1,362,620 28% Comment: This section is VERY confusing to the average reader. Without a clear explanation that these numbers reflect what would happen in the absence of any action ( or business as usual) readers will wonder how we will meet our emission reduction goals. See relevant Executive Summary comment above. 14 4. GHG EMISSION REDUCTION STRATEGY FIGURE 12. GHG EMISStON LEVELS ANO REDUCTION GOALS 1,600,000 1,400,000 ~ 1,200,000 0 ~ :E 1,000,000 U'I C: 800,000 0 ·~ VI ·e 600,000 ~ (!) ::r: 400,000 (!) 200,000 2005 •--Baseline emissions Comment: Emissions to be reduced 2019 2030 2045 Forecasted emissions Goal e-missions Please see previous comment regarding the graph and the desire for more detail. Page 67 Local renewable energy systems and energy efficiency strategies will continue to provide several co-benefits to communities, including lower electr icity bills and increased res ili ency aga in st power disruptions,, even if there are no measurable add itional GHG em issions reductio ns. Comment: The County should incentivize and encourage the development of microgrids with a corresponding action and key performance metric. This paragraph alludes to "local renewable energy systems." We propose creating a microgrid section. Note: Pages 71 -102: Comments on the strategies and actions will be provided on Table 12 starting on page 140 of the DRAFT CAP. Page 104 15 THE2024 CAP AND CA RBON NEUTRALITY Th e 2024 CAP achi eves significant r eduction s i n GHG e miss ions a nd p laces Co ntra Co sta County on a path to support statewid e carb o n neutrality by 2045. Currently, there is insufficient guidance and certainty around local ca r bon sequestration, storage, and potential carbon offset strategi es to m athematically d e monstrate with certainty that the 2024 CAP will ac hi ev e ca rbon neut r ali ty by 2045 . However, the County beli eve s that su ch Comment: We would like the CAP to be clearer throughout when using the term "carbon sequestration." While the term is defined in the glossary, we recommend using "natural" or "biological' carbon sequestration whenever we mean carbon storage in vegetation, soils, etc. The above statement regarding carbon storage and offsets suggests that the County will contemplate these strategies to help it achieve its carbon neutrality goals. For any industrial (underground or geologic) carbon capture and storage projects, the County should vet methods, consider externalities, and establish guard rails to prevent harm. It should be the County's goal to pursue carbon emission source reductions first. Regarding carbon offsets, the County should ensure any such strategy is high quality if it must be utilized. Further, we would like the County to not imply or suggest support for industrial underground carbon capture and storage (CCS) given significant current uncertainty about its actual benefits and harms. 5. CLIMATE ADAPTATION STRATEGY Page 114 RESILIEN T COMMUNITIES A D N ATU RAL. INFRASTRUCTURE (NI} CONTRA COSTA COUNTY WILL INCREASE RESILI ENCE TO C LIMATE HAZARDS AND FOSTER COM MUNITY HEALTH. Comment: The 2024 CAP takes steps to improve the resilience of Contra Costa County's unincorporated communities by ensuring that structures and infrastructure are responsive to flooding. sea level rise,. fire. heat. and other climate chanee hazards. Natural Consider including County Operations (not just unincorporated communities) as you describe the steps the CAP takes to improve resilience. 16 Note: Pages 115 -138: Comments on these strategies and actions will be provided on Table 12 starting on page 140 of the DRAFT CAP (page 19 of this comment document). 17 Comments on Table 12 of 2024 CAP Implementation Matrix (see next page) Table 12 2024 CAP IMPLEMENTATION MATRIX (pg. 140 of CAP) CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME Clean and Efficient Built Environment: Homes, workplaces, and businesses in unincorporated Contra Costa County run efficiently on clean energy Commented [LG1]: CONSIDER ADDING: and r-----------------~--------,------~------------------.-------------1 become carbon neutral BE-1: Require and incentivize new buildings and additions built in unincorporated Contra Costa County to be low-carbon or carbon neutral. -Consider adopting new or modified reach codes that exceed the California Building Standards Code to require the use of lower- carbon intensive energy sources, to achieve higher feasible levels of energy conservation and efficiency, and to achieve lower feasible levels of GHG emissions. (COS-A 14.4) -Maintain, update, publicize, and enforce the County Ordinance Code Title 7 -Building Regulations amendment requiring new residential buildings, hotels, offices, and retail to be all-electric. Evaluate the feasibility of including other building types as appropriate. (COS-A 14. 5) -Partner with community groups and MCE to establish an induction cooktop loaner program for county residents . -Design and construct new County facilities to be zero net energy to the extent feasible. (COS-Pl 4.8) -Study the feasibility of establishing a low-carbon concrete requirement for all new construction and retrofit activities and consider additional strategies to reduce embedded carbon in construction materials. The intent is to determine what the County can and should do to support or exceed State requirements for net- zero emissions for cement use by 2045. (HS-A3.2) -Provide educational materials to encourage project applicants to incorporate passive solar design features into new developments and significant reconstructions. Key Performance Metric(s): -Implement the reach code. (Conservation and Development) [Supportive Performance Metric(s): -Participatfon in energy efficiency and weatherization programs by new residential and commercial buildings (including County facilities), with attention to participation in Impacted Communities. (Conservation and Development -community; Public Works -County facilities) Energy efficient lighting and other appliances and mechanical systems in new County buildings. (Public Works) -Completed report exploring requirements for low- carbon concrete in new construction. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners -BayREN -Local contr~~tors, Commented (LG3]: Update Key Performance Metric] developers, architects, regarding the reach code. and Contra-Costa Cou n 8 "Id' T d C Commented [LG4]: Add supportive performance ui mg ra es ouncil metric 4 for educational materials action: Educational -MCE and promotional materials for clean, green buildings -PG&E developed and distributed. -Building Industry Association -BAAQMD Applicability -County operations -New development -Residents in 1 Commented (LGS): Modify supportive metric 2 to say "HVAC" systems vs. mechanical systems (if that's what is meant?). ~_u_n_in_c_o_r~p_o _ra_te_d_a_re_a_s_. ----1 Commented [LG2]: Reword the first two actions given Time Frame Near term (by 2026) the Berkeley court decision. Include the latest direction from the Board of Supervisors. POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND POTENTIAL PARTNERS, CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS APPLICABILITY, AND Commented [LG6J: Split into two actions. The ath action would become: Require additional sustainable features as a condition of approval, including reuse of materials to minimize embedded carbon. LEAD DEPARTMENTS TIME FRAME -[Promote additional sustainable building strategies and designs, including small and "tiny" homes, to project applicants as site appropriate. Consider requiring additional sustainable features as a condition of approval, including reuse of materials to minimize Consider adding: circular economy strategies language. Consider creating policies that require or incentivize reuse/remanufacturing/recycling of materials in the built environment r---e_m_b_e_d_d_e_d _c_a_rb_o_n_. --------~~=~~~-------------~-------~=~-=-+----------------1 Commented (LG7): Consider adding a percentage of IBE-2: Retrofit existing buildings and facilities in the Key Performance Metric(s): Potential Partners buildings and facilities to retrofit by 2030 and 2045 and unincorporated county, and County infrastructure, -Participation in energy efficiency and weatherization to reduce energy use and convert to low-carbon or programs, including retrofits and site rehabilitation, by existing residential and commercial buildings (including carbon-neutral fuels. _______________________ .Co.uat¥-faciJiti.e.s), witb.attention.to_participatio.njn -Create a County policy or program to facilitate making existing residential and nonresidential buildings more energy-efficient and powered by carbon-free energy, (COS-A 14.6) -Require replacement and new water heaters and space heating and cooling systems to be electric if the building electric panel has sufficient capacity in accordance with BAAQMD Regulation 9, Rule 4, and Regulation 9, Rule 6. (COS-Pl 4.10) -Create a detailed roadmap to convert existing homes and businesses to use low-or zero-carbon appliances. The roadmap should include steps to support converting buildings to rely on low- or zero-carbon energy using an equitable framework that minimizes the risk of displacement or significant disruptions to existing tenants. (COS-A 14. 7) -Evaluate options for incentivizing and requiring additions and alterations to be energy efficient and to achieve the lowest feasible levels of GHG emissions, including upgrades to the building electric panel, as needed. (COS-Pl 4.8))_________ _ ___ .. -Ensure County-led and supported retrofit programs incentivize and prioritize conversion of buildings built before 1980 and emphasize assistance to owners of properties that are home to very low-, low-, and moderate-income residents and/or located in Impacted Impacted Communities. (Conservation and Development) -Roadmap to convert existing buildings to all-electric (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): -Energy efficient lighting and other appliances and mechanical systems. (Conservation and DevelopmentX_ __ ,_ -Expanded or created retrofit programs to complement weatherization programs that serve low-income county residents. (Conservation and Development) -BayREN adjust time frame accordingly. _ Local contractors, Commented [LG8R7J: Add a public education activity architects, and Contra ;=t=o=B=E=·=2=· =================::: CostaC.ounty Buildings , Commented [LG10]: Supportive Metrics: Trades Council 1: Is this to be tracked for County _ MCE buildings/infrastructure? What does "mechanical systems" mean? -Neighborhood Preservation Program -Contra Costa County Asthma Initiative App)ica~il_ity -County operations -Existing development ' -Residents in unincorporated areas. Note: Consider adding a metric to track the number of permits for additions/remodels and type of efficiency measures required. Commented (LG9}: 2: Consider removing the following language: "if the building electric panel has sufficient capacity."* Instead, create a separate action that encourages the use of electric panels, including the use of new technology such as smart panels and other tools that do not force the upgrade of a panel when electrifying an existing building. -Businesses in unincorporated areas. f------------1 3: Add "implemenr after "create" regarding the building Time Frame electrification roadmap. * Adjust the time frame Near term (by 2026) accordingly since implementation will happen through 2045. 4: Reword "upgrades to the building electric panel, as needed" to "upgrades or installation of low-cost panel capacity mitigation devices, as needed."* Communities, as permitted by available funding. (COS-Al 4.9) Note: Consider adding an action regarding improving ----------'----'-------'-------'--"'--=-=-=-=---'-___:_::___'-----.L-----------------------'-------------1 and increasing energy-related code enforcement. 2 POTENTIAL PARTNERS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND 1 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS APPLICABILITY, AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS TIME FRAME --- -Explore opportunities, in collaboration with partner agencies, to create new incentives or publicize existing ones to support updating existing buildings to achieve the lowest feasible levels of GHG emissions. -Work to continue to obtain funding with partners such as BayREN and MCE to implement a program or programs to provide reduced- cost or free energy-efficiency and zero-carbon retrofits to local small businesses and households earning less than the area median income, in support of the Contra Costa County Asthma Initiative, Contra Costa County Weatherization Program, similar County programs, other nonprofit partners, and other health equity efforts for Impacted Communities. Support the use of low- emitting materials, including paints and carpeting, in retrofits to improve indoor air quality. -In partnership with MCE and BayREN, continue to support voluntary home and business energy efficiency retrofits, including all-electric measures. -Facilitate participation by homes and businesses in demand response programs. • -Continue to conduct energy and water tracking activities, audits, and upgrades of County facilities, including co.nversion of feasible County facilities to all-electric space and water heating . -Advocate for modifications to the federal Weatherization Assistance Program that expand eligible measures to include whole building clean energy improvements, such as wall insulation, duct sealing, electric panel upgrades, electric heat pumps, and related measures. Advocate for an increase in the income eligibility limits forthe Weatherization Assistance Program. -Implement requirements for cool roofs and light-colored, nonreflective permeable paving materials as part of retrofit, repair, Commented (LG11]: Consider adding an action that .___a_n_d_re--'p'-l_a_ce_m_e_n_t _a_ct_i_v _it_ie_s_:__, _u_s_in--=g:_r_e_c__:_y_c _le_d_m_a_te_r_ia_l_s_o_r_o_t _h_e_r ---'-------------------------~-----------1 addresses training roofers , electricians, and other relevant trades in partnership with community colleges and labor unions. 3 POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND POTENTIAL PARTNERS, CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS L APPLICABILITY, AND EAD DEPARTMENTS TIME FRAME materials with low embedded carbon as feasible and as established by the Building Standards Code. 1BE-3: Increase the amount of electricity used and Key Performance Metric(s): Potential Partners generated from renewable sources in the county.l__ _____ -_ ~c~:;;;s:~11~;1:~~~:-~~Ec;ienp~~;;e~;~:;~;~~011 _______ ~ :~~~:r:tecfioiHiistricts -Require new commercial parking lots with 50 or more spaces to and Development) Contra Costa County mitigate heat gain through installation of shade trees, solar arrays, -Total megawatts of installed renewable energy -Local contractors, or other emerging cooling technologies. Prioritize the use of solar capacity, by type, in the unincorporated county. architects, and Contra arrays where feasible and appropriate. (HS-P8.3) (Conservation and Development) Costa County Building -Encourage property owners to pursue financial incentives for solar Trades Council installations and energy storage technologies, such as battery Supportive Performance Metric(s): _ MCE storage systems, on new and existing buildings. -Megawatts of rooftop and parking lot solar installed in _ PG&E Commented [LG12J: New proposed action: In partnership with MCE, proactively identify opportunities for industrial scale solar plus battery projects in unincorporated Contra Costa to benefit impacted communities. ~ ________________ _, _ Work with MCE to increase enrollment, especially in the Deep unincorporated county, including County facilities and _ BAAQMD Green tier. Impacted Communities. (Conservation and ___________ ___ -Continue to enroll all eligible, non-solar-equipped County facility Development -community; Public Works -County electricity accounts in MCE territory in the Deep Green tier. facilities) -Work with the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District and -Megawatt-hours of installed battery storage capacity at other organizations that provide fire protection services to provide public and private buildings. (Conservation and education and promote incentives for battery storage systems that Development -community; Public Works -County can increase the resilience of homes and businesses to power facilities) outages. -Percent of electricity supplied by PG&E and MCE from -Encourage installation of battery storage systems in new and renewable sources. (Conservation and Development)1 existing buildings, especially buildings with solar energy systems -Number of new and existing buildings with energy and buildings that provide essential community services. (COS-storage systems, including County facilities. Pl 4. 7)l___ ------------------------------------------------------------------(Conservation and Development -community; Public -Provide information about battery storage systems with all Works -County facilities) applications for new home construction and solar panel installations. -Pursue implementation of recommendations of the 2018 Renewable Resource Potential Study. 4 Applicability -County operations -Existing development -New development -Residents in unincorporated areas. -Businesses in ---"unincor_por.ated_areas-.·-Commented [LG14): Consider adding "tracked" at end j Time Frame l_o_f..,.t_h_is_s_u_p_po_rt_iv_e_m_e_t_ri_c_. __________ _ Mid-term (by 2028) Commented [LG13): Can this action include promoting 1 the creation of microgrids to increase resilience in the most vulnerable communities? J CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS -Evaluate the least-conflict feasible locations for stand-alone battery storage systems and modify land use regulations to enable such use in these locations. POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME No Waste Contra Costa: Contra Costa County disposes no more solid waste than 2.2 pounds per person per day. Commented [LG15]: Question: do we mean CCC or i:.--------~~---~---------------.-------------------------r-;......;;.---a.---------, unincorporated CCC here? Do we mean waste bound NW-1: Increase composting of organic waste. -Ensure, through franchise agreements and other relationships with waste haulers, a source-separated organics collection service for all residential and commercial customers in County-controlled collection franchise areas. -Require that new and expanded landfill operations significantly reduce GHG emissions to meet or exceed State targets to the extent feasible, and work toward carbon-neutral landfills. (PFS- P7.12) -Work with wastewater providers to explore the use of organic waste as feedstock for anaerobic digesters to produce biogas that can generate electricity or fuel. -Require local restaurants, grocery stores, and other edible food generators that handle large quantities of food to partner with food rescue organizations to divert edible food that would be otherwise disposed in landfills for distribution to those in need, in accordance with SB 1 383. -Collaborate with edible food recovery programs and the Community Wellness & Prevention Program to decrease food waste and address hunger. -Procure compost or other products made from recovered organic waste in accordance with the County's Recovered Organic Waste Product and Recycled Paper Procurement Policy. -• .I__ --·- Key Performance Metric(s): P~rcentage of Co-unty-controlled franchise areas with source separated organics collection for residential customers. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): -Number of commercial edible food generators in County-controlled franchise areas participating in edible food recovery program . (Conservation and Development) -Number of .projects complying with the Model Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance (MWELO) required to use compost. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners to landfills when we say "solid wasten? -Residents in 1 Commented [LG16]: Consider rewording to: unincorporated areas. "Decrease food waste and increase composting of -Businesses in organic waste.n unincorporated areas. Applicability -Environmentaljustice organizations -Food rescue organizations -Major generators of organic waste (schools, restaurants, event spaces, grocery stores, etc.) -Waste haulers -Wastewater service providers -Contra Costa Health, CWPP -County Jail meal service -Schools -Hospitals T.ime Frame Mid-term (by 2028) Commented [LG17): Consider adding an action and supportive metric that promotes apps for residents to help reduce food waste such as ''Too Good To Go" and '-----------------------------'-----------------------~----------; others. 5 POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND POTENTIAL PARTNERS, CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS LEAD DEPARTMENTS APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME NW-2: Reduce waste from County operations. Key Performance Metric(s): Potential Partners -Establish a source-separated organics collection service at all -Recycling, composting at County facilities. (Public -County operations County-owned facilities that includes recovering food waste Works) Applicability (scraps) and food-soiled paper. -Volume of waste disposed at County facilities. -Waste haulers -Implement three-stream recycling (trash, recycling, and organic (Conservation and Development) waste) at all County-owned facilities. Supportive Performance Metric(s): Time Frame -Establish requirements for source-separated organics collection -Recycled content of County purchases consistent with Mid-term (by 2028) and three-stream recycling as conditions in lease agreements for applicable requirements of SB 1383. (Public Works) County offices. -Enforcement of requirements for County vendors and -!Conduct waste audits ~f _c_;:~'::1!1__ty_f9-_~ilities, including assessi~g the_ --·-contractors to adopt and implement_the ________________ _____________________________ ... Commented [LG18]: How often? l volume and composition of all waste streams, to identify Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Policy. (Public challenges with waste activities and develop educational or Works) operational changes to address issues and reduce waste -Number of County facilities with Bay-friendly generation. landscaping practices. (Public Works) -Obtain material for capital projects from local and low-carbon -Tonnage of recycled and composted materials, by type, sources to the greatest extent feasible, including allocating collected at County facilities. (Public Works) additional funds to allow for such materials, and integrate -Number of County facilities with three-stream recycling. appropriate standards into the County's Environmentally (Public Works) Preferable Purchasing (EPP) policy. -1 . .1__ __ ,.,. ______________________________________________________ ------------------------------r Commented [LG20]: Number of waste audits -Continue to reduce paper use in County operations. Procure performed recycled paper and janitorial supplies in accordance with the Recovered Organic Waste Product and Recycled Paper Procurement Policy. -Continue engagement with TRUE zero-waste certification for County projects. -Enact Bay-friendly landscaping practices at County facilities. Develop County policies and practices for Bay-friendly landscaping. -Explore opportunities to reuse wood from County tree maintenance activities as an alternative to chipping. .. ----f Commented [LG19]: Is reduction of plastic medical waste, disposal or recycling of batteries, and t hazardous waste disposal addressed somewhere? 6 POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND POTENTIAL PARTNERS, CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS L APPLICABILITY, AND EAD DEPARTMENTS TIME FRAME -Encourage medical facilities and medical waste recycling companies to upgrade facilities to increase the amount of medical waste recycled or reprocessed. -Explore the feasibility of transitioning to reusable products in the health sector, where appropriate, and procuring products certified as green or low carbon. NW-3: Increase community-wide recycling and waste minimization programs. -Create a source-reduction program in partnershipwith regional agencies to promote rethinking, refusing, reducing, reusing, and regenerating of materials. -Improve educational efforts to promote better waste sorting among community members. -Work with waste haulers to expand the types of materials accepted by recycling programs as economic conditions allow. -Work with waste haulers to continue availability of curbside pickup recycling services . -Evaluate the feasibility p f banning single-use plastics or establishing additional restrictions beyond those created by SB 54. -Encourage the use of reusable items over disposable materials. Key Performance Metric(s): -Actual disposed pounds per person per day (PPD) numbers year over year. (Conservation and Development) -Number of households and businesses subscribing to recycling and .organics service. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners -New development ~ Residents in unincorporated areas . -Businesses in unincorporated areas . Applicability -Major waste generators -Waste haulers -Recycling centers Time Frame Mrd-:"feffr;--{frf2028) 1 Commented (LG21J: Consider rewording "Evaluate the feasibility" to "Propose for Board of Supervisors -Promote the Contra Costa County Recycling Market Development l consideration a single use plastic ban in unincorporated Contra Costa." _______ __, Zone low-interest loan program to incentivize the development of businesses that use recycled materials. 1-----··'~-----------------------+-----------------------+----------""'"' Commented [LG22]: Consider adding an action: NW-4: Reduce emissions from landfill gas. Key Performance Metric(s): Potential Partners Promote use of community reuse/recycle websites and apps like Buy Nothing, Upcycle, Trash Nothing, -Encourage efforts at Acme, Keller Canyon, and West Contra Costa -Me th ane capture rate 1---_L_a_n_d_fi_ll_o--'-p_e_ra_t_o_rs __ __, Freecycle, etc. landfills to install or enhance existing methane capture technology Supportive Performance Metric(s): Applicability Commented (LG 231 : Do we address methane leaks, and associated monitoring systems with a goal of increasing the -Tons of flared landfill gas _ Landfill operators methane emissions, or other super pollutants in the methane capture rate to the greatest extent feasible. 1------------1 CAP? Recommend that we do. Time Frame Mid-term (by 2028) 7 J POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND POTENTIAL PARTNERS, CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS L APPLICABILITY, AND EA D DEPARTMENTS TIME FRAME -Explore opportunities for partnering with agricultural and industrial operations to generate energy from methane gas generated by their ongoing activities. -Support landfill operators in efforts to transition away from landfill gas flaring. (COS-Pl 4.5) Reduce Water Use and Increase Drought Resilienc : Contra Costa County uses less water and communities are prepared for drought. Commented [LG24]: Unincorporated and County ---------------------------''-,---------------------------'-----'-'--'-----------,-----------Operations? Or whole county? DR-1: Reduce indoor and outdoor water use. -Require new development to reduce potable water consumption through use of water-efficient devices and technology, drought- tolerant landscaping strategies, and recycled water, where available. (COS-P7. l) -Require homes and businesses to install water-efficient fixtures at time of retrofit activities, in accordance with the California Building Standards Code. -Continue to enforce the Model Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance and encourage the use of native and drought-tolerant landscaping for exempt residential and commercial landscapes through partnership with local and regional water agencies and other organizations. -Partner with water and wastewater service providers, Groundwater Sustainability Agencies, irrigation districts, and private well owners to increase participation in water conservation programs countywide. (Cos~P7.2) -Facilitate offering of BayREN water bill savings programs through eligible community water providers. -Encourage the installation of graywater and rainwater catchment systems, particularly for new construction, as feasible for wastewater infrastructure. Reduce regulatory barriers for these systems and explore creating incentives for installing these systems in new and existing buildings. Key Performance Metric(s): Potential Partners -.::_--Wateruse~-specifically reduction in overall water use in -Water provideri _______ Commented [LGZS): Several new ideas for this section : the unincorporated county as reported by water -Green Business Progra r When appropriate, consider in-building water reuse companies. (Conservation and Development) Applicability strategies (like 181 Fremont St, SF). -Water use, specifically reduction in water use at County _ Central Contra Costa Consider promoting hydroloops (shower to toilet facilities. (Public Works) technology) Sanitary District Consider educating the public about future benefit of Supportive Performance Metric(s): -Contra Costa Water direct potable reuse of waste water given future -Square footage of native and drought-tolerant District droughts. landscaping projects at County facilities. (PublicWorks) _ East Bay Municipal Utili Consider partnering with UCB to develop an EcoBlock _ Number of participants in Contra Costa Water District D" t • t like the one in Oakland, with a triple net zero goal re: is nc water, energy and waste. Lawn to Garden program. (Conservation and -WestCountyWastewate, ... ,~---------------------' Development) -Number of participants in East Bay Municipal Utility District Lawn Conversion program. (Conservation and Development) -Number of water districts participating in BayREN water savings program. (Conservation and Development) -Number of customers participating in water conservation programs sponsored by water companies. (Conservation and Development) 8 District -Other water and wastewater service providers -Contra Costa Health -UC Master Gardeners -Nurseries -Property managers Time Frame Near term (by 2026) POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND POTENTIAL PARTNERS, CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS LEAD DEPARTMENTS APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME -Identify opportunities for graywater use in public spaces and implement them as feasible. -Promote the installation of composting toilets at appropriate County facilities in locations without wastewater service .[_ ____ ----Commented [LG26]: Why only in locations without l DR-2: Ensure sustainable and diver~e water supp~~~~.:" Key Performance Metric(s): Potential Partners wastewater service? -Encourage Contra Costa Health to work with Groundwater -Amount of recycled water used. (Conservation and -Existing developme-nt Commented (LG27]: Consider adding policy language Development) -New development regarding the need to plan for laying purple pipes for Sustainability Agencies to ensure that new well permit applications -Residents in recycled water in new projects and developments. are in accordance with County ordinances and State construction Supportive Performance Metric(s): unincorporated areas. standards and require a hydrogeological evaluation in areas with -Groundwater sustainability indicators: chronic lowering known water shortages to ensure that the sustainable yield goals of groundwater levels; reduction in storage; seawater -Businesses in can be met. intrusion; degraded quality; land subsidence; surface unincorporated areas . -Require new development to demonstrate the availability of a safe, water depletion. (Conservation and Development) Applicablllty sanitary, and environmentally sound water delivery and -Contra Costa Health wastewater treatment systems with adequate capacity. (PFS-P4. 5, -Central Contra Costa PFS-P4.6) Sanitary District -Discourage new development that may reasonably lead to -Contra Costa Water groundwater overdraft, subsidence, or other negative impacts, or District which may reasonably depend on the import of unsustainable -East Bay Municipal Utility quantities of water from outside the county. District -Require the use of permeable surfaces for new or reconstructed -Groundwater hardscaped areas. Sustainability Agencies -In coordination with Groundwater Sustainability Agencies, expand (GSAs): opportunities for groundwater recharge. -City of Antioch GSA -Work with water suppliers to expand recycled water systems as -City of Brentwood feasible, including considering additional treatment to allow for GSA additional recycled water uses. -Byron-Bethany Irrigation District GSA -Contra Costa County GSA -Diablo Water District GSA 9 POTENTIAL PARTNERS, POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANC E METRICS AND CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS APPLICABILITY, AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS TIME FRAME -Discovery Bay GSA -East Contra Costa Irrigation District GSA -EBMUD GSA -Zone 7 GSA -West County Wastewater District -Other water and wastewater service providers Time Frame Mid-term (by 2028) Clean Transportation Network: Contra Costa County's transportation network provides safe and accessible options for walking, biking, and transit. If residents and workers are driving, they a_i:_e iry zero-emjs~on ve~icles. _ ___ _ TR-1: Improve the viability of walking, biking, zero-Key Performance Metric(s): Potential Partners emission commuting, and using public transit for -Percentage complete and under construction of -511 Contra Costa unincorporated bicycle network. (Public Works) -BAAQMD travel within, to, and from the county. _ Linear feet of pedestrian facilities constructed. (Public -CCTA -Track over time projects that add pedestrian and bicycle facilities to works) -• Environmental justice document the County's implementation of the County Road _ Number of bicycle and pedestrian network gaps closed. groups Improvement and Preservation Program (CRIPP); Complete Streets (Public Works) -MTC/ABAG checklist; Vision Zero Report and Action Plan; Active Transportation _ Measure progress onthe County Road Improvement -Transit providers Plan; andequity-focused plans, programs, and policies. and Preservation Program (CRIPP); Complete Streets; -Local communities -Improve the safety and comfort of bicycle, pedestrian, and public Vision Zero; Active Transportation; and equity-focused -California State transit facilities using best practices to encourage more people to plans, programs, and policies. (Public Works) Association of Counties use such facilities. -Number of new units (residential and commercial) -Advocacy organizations _-'---------------------.. -Work with CCTA to fill gaps in the countywide Low-Stress Bike located in transit priority areas. (Conservation and -East B~y Leadership f Commented [LG28]: Consider adding new action: Network, as outlined in the 2018 Countywide Bicycle and Development) Council Encourage CCTA, Jurisdictions, and the County to add Pedestrian Plan. Prioritize providing access for Impacted -Safe Routes to Scho ol continuous bike lanes on all designated Routes of L_:C:.:o:.:.m.:.:.m:.:.:.::u~n~it::.:ie::s_:a.::..n::d~c-o_:_n_s_:_tr_:_u_ct_in.....:g~p-ro_t_ect_e_d _b_icy__:__c_le_f_a_ci_li_tie_s.....:.·:.:--:.::.-:.:--:.::.--:.:-:..:.-·-=-:.:--:1.:.:--:.::.--:.:-:.::.--=-=-=--:.:-:....:· -:.:.-:.:-:.::.--:....:;· -:.:-.:.:-:....:..-::..:.:-=:..-.::.::. -·=.=--:=-.:.:-·=---:....:-=--=-:....:....:~:....:....:-=-----=-·--=~:....:-:..:.-=--=--=--:..i::c-_-:....:-P_r_o-=-g-ra_m'--s ________________ 7 Regional Significance in the County. Where these I Routes of Regional Significance are on Freeways, add the bike lanes to public streets that closely parallel the freeway. 10 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS -In collaboration with key partners, support efforts to establish or join a shared mobility program that provides access to conventional bicycle, e-bikes, and other micromobility modes. -Support efforts to expand the service area and frequency ~f_ ___ _ regional transit agencies, including AC Transit; BART, Capitol Corridor, County Connection, Tri Delta Transit, the San Francisco Bay Ferry, and WestCAT. -Maximize development of jobs and affordable housing near high- quality transit service to support ajobs~housing balance. -Market the county's Northern Waterfront to attract innovative companies with jobs for residents. -Maintain in place and enforce a Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Ordinance that reflects best practices, and, at a minimum, conforms to Contra Costa Transportation Authority's adopted model TOM ordinance or resolution. (GM-P3 .S) -Improve county-wide safety for bicyclists by advocating for the passage of Vulnerable Road User Laws . -Secure additional funding for the maintenance and expansion of bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure improvements. Support efforts to obtain additional funding to maintain and expand public transit operations and infrastructure improvements . -Support CCTA to develop and implement methods for t racking EV and e-bike charging and availability across jurisdictions. -Support CCTA and regional transit agencies in providing "last mile" transportation connections and options . -Encourage and support increased regional integration of transit systems to promote more equitable fare structures, fare integration, easier transfers, including coordinated transfers between different transit systems and reduced wait times, improved information sharing, and generally a more seamless and modern system. POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS -Number of new units of affordable housing, particularly in areas with high-quality transit. (Conservation arid __ Development) _____ _ :-::_ i::r:.~n~_i!_ridershi_RJn County service areas. (Conservation and Development) -Number of employers operating transportation demand programs. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): For Coun ty Operations: Number of employees participating in the County remote work polic:y. (Human Resources) Number and percentage of County employees using the pre-tax commute benefit. (Human Resources) -Administrative Bulletin supporting videoconference and conference calls, where appropriate. (County Administrator) Updated CRIPP Project list. (Public Works) Grant awards for transportation projects that support 2024 CAP goals (number and amount). (Public Works, Conservation and Development) 11 POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME -County operations -Existing developme·r1t ---N€w -develep-ment -Residents in unincorporated areas. -Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Long term (by 2030) Commented [LG29J: Consider adding : prioritizing access for low income residents who do not own a bicycle and establish bike repair programs=.==== f Commented [LG30]: Consider adding "and reduced fares for students, seniors, and low-income residents" POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND POTENTIAL PARTNERS, CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS LEAD DEPARTMENTS APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME TR-2: Increase the use of zero-emissions vehicles. Key Performance Metric(s): Potential Partners Transition to a zero-emission County fleet by 2035 -Number of zero-emission vehicles registered in -BAAQMD and a community fleet that is at least 50 percent unincorporated county. (Conservation and -Contra Costa Development) Transportation Authority zero-emission by 2030. -Percentage of County fleet that is zero-emission. (Public -Environmental justice -Require new County vehicles to be zero emission to the extent a Works) groups viable vehicle is available on the market, that charging or zero--Implementation of an EV sharing program -MCE emission fueling equipment is conveniently located where the (Conservation and Development) -Multifamily and rental vehicle will be stored, and as required by the Advanced Clean Fleet Supportive Performance Metric(s): property owners regulations, with the goal that all County vehicles will be zero--Number of zero-emission vehicles purchased annually -TNC and taxi providers emission by 203 5. for County fleet. (Public Works) -BART -Install electric vehicle charging equipment and other infrastructure -Caltrans -Number of EV chargers installed at County facilities, needed to support the transition to a zero-emission County fleet at both for County fleet and public use. (Public Works) -East Bay Leadership County facilities. Consider the appropriate locations, number, and Number of publicly accessible EV chargers installed Council capacity of infrastructure to facilitate the transition of the County - fleet to zero-emission vehicles. throughout the unincorporated county. (Conservation Applicability -Provide incentives for zero-emission vehicles in partnership with and Development) -County operations MCE, BAAQMD, and other agencies. -Existing development -Work with property owners and other potential partners to pursue -New development installation of zero-emission vehicle charging stations in and near -Residents in multifamily dwelling units. unincorporated areas. -Update off-street parking ordinance to include a requirement for -Businesses in zero-emission vehicle charging infrastructure. Consider including unincorporated areas . incentives for developers to exceed minimum requirements (i.e., •. Time Frame density bonus). Ongoing -Increase installation of electric vehicle charging stations for all vehicle types, including bicycles and scooters, at public facilities, emphasizing increased installation in Impacted Communities. -In partnership with regional agencies, explore providing subsidies for households making less than the area median income to purchase or lease zero-emission vehicles and associated infrastructure. 12 POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND POTENTIAL PA RTNERS, CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS L APPLICABILITY, AND EAD DEPARTMENTS TIME FRAME -Pursue fees and regulatory efforts to convert transportation network company (TNC), taxi, and similar car-hire services to zero- emission vehicles. -Explore opportunities for implementing electric vehicle sharing programs. -Work with BMQMD and other regional agencies to convert off- road equipment to zero-emission clean fuels. -Work with contractors, fleet operations, logistics companies, and other operators of heavy-duty vehicles to accelerate the transition to zero-emission heavy-duty vehicles . -Work with Public Works to pursue the use of renewable natural gas (sourced from recovered organic waste) for transportation fuel, electricity, or heating applications in cases where battery-electri c, hybrid-electric, and sustainably sourced hydrogen fuel -cell sources are not available. -Encourage efforts to maximize EV charging during solar peak hours. -Support implementation of the Contra Costa County Electric Vehicle Readiness Blueprint. -··· ___ _ __ ----------{ Commented [LG31J: Potential new action: Encourage Resilient Communities and Natural Infrastructure: Contra Costa County will increase resilience to climate hazards and foster community !he inSlallati~n ?f CD FaSt Chargin~ f~cilities, especially m close prox1m1ty to freeways and in impacted health. communities. ____ ) N 1-1: Protect against and adapt to changes in sea levels and other shoreline flooding conditions. -Require new development to locate habitable areas of buildings above the highest water level expected accounting for sea level rise and other changes in flood conditions; or construct natural and nature-based features, or a levee, if necessary, adequately designed to protect the project for its expected life. (HS-P6. l) Key Performance Metric(s): -Establish a shoreline flooding working group. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): -Develop effective tracking metrics. (Conservation and Development) 13 Potential Partners -Existing development -New development _ ~pplicabili~ -San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission 1 Commented [LG32]: Consider adding a reference, like 1 "according to BCDC maps" and which assumption will be used . POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND POTENTIAL PARTNERS, CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS APPLICABILITY, AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS TIME FRAME -Support the use of natural infrastructure, including ecosystem restoration and green infrastructure, to protect against sea level rise and associated shoreline flooding. -Coordinate with State and regional agencies, neighboring jurisdictions, property owners, utilities, and others to prepare a sea level rise adaptation plan.l __ _ -Seek funding and pursue implementation of wetland restoration and other adaptation efforts for sea level rise. -Convene a working group that includes localjurisdictions, local shoreline communities, community-based organizations, property owners, businesses, and other stakeholders to collaborate on shoreline flooding adaptation strategies. -Identify opportunities for employing natural areas as buffers against rising sea levels. Nl-2: Protect against and adapt to increases in the frequency and intensity of wildfire events. -Prohibit new residential subdivisions in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones and discourage residential subdivisions in High Fire Hazard Severity Zones. (HS-P7. 1) -Require any construction of buildings or infrastructure within a High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone in the Local or State Responsibility Areas, or in the Wildland-Urban Interface, to incorporate fire-safe design features that meet the applicable State Fire Safe Regulations and Hazard Reduction Around Buildings and -Delta Stewardship Council -Shoreline communities -Irrigation districts -Community0 based ............. ________________________ organizations __ Key Performance Me asure(s): -Amount of funds distributed for wildfire mitigation efforts. (Contra Costa Fire Protection District and other fire protection entities) -Miles of power lines undergrounded. (Conservation and Development) -.. ] -------------- -Land Trusts Time Frame Long term (by 2030) Potential Partners -Residents in unincorporated areas. -Businesses in unincorporated areas. -County operations -_Existing developm~_nt . -New development -Sheriff's Office of Emergency Services Structures Regulations for road ingress and egress, fire equipment Applicability access, and adequate water supply. (HS-P7.2) -Community-based -Require subdivisions in the High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the organizations Commented [LG33]: The time frame for this activity {by 2030) seems too long. Commented [LG35]: Add High fire hazard residential restrictions ordinance to performance measures. Local or State Responsibility Areas, or projects requiring a land useL_ ----------------------------------------------------------------------~_c::-~~!~~--~?~!~-~?.~_n_tyJin Commented [LG34]: This is confusing. Are we L__--------------------------~----------------------~_P_r_ot_e_c_t1_o_n_D_1s_tr_1c_t_----1 allowing new subdivisions in High Fire Hazard Severity Zones if they get a land use permit? The first action prohibits new subdivisions in these areas. Right? 14 POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND POTENTIAL PARTNERS, CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS LEAD DEPARTMENTS APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME permit in the High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the -Facility operators (school Local or State Responsibility Areas, to complete a site-specific fire districts, libraries, protection plan. Collaborate with the appropriate fire protection community centers, etc.) district to review and revise the fire protection plans. (HS-P7.3) -Kensington Fire -Work with property owners in mapped High or Very High Fire Protection District Hazard Severity Zones or in the Wildland-Urban Interface to -Rodeo-Hercules Fire establish and maintain fire breaks and defensible space, vegetation Protection District clearance, and firefighting infrastructure. (HS-P7.4) -Moraga-Or!nda Fire Commented [LG36J: Define who will do this and add a , -----------------.. ------ -Support undergrounding of utility lines, especially in the Wild land -District key performance metric. Urban Interface and Fire Hazard Severity Zones . (HS-P7.8) -San Ramon Valley Fire -Review indoor air filtration standards and consider whether Protection District filtration requirements can and should be strengthened for -Medical service providers projects permitted by the County. -211 -Work with community organizations to help Impacted -Red Cross Communities have access to financing and other resources to Time Frame reduce the fire risk on their property, prepare for wildfire events, Long term (by 2030) and allow for a safe and speedy recovery. Nl-3: Establish and maintain community resilience Key Performance Measure(s): Potential Partners hubs. -Adopted plan for community resilience hubs. -Community-based Commented [LG37]: Define resilience hubs in -(Conservation and "Development) ---------------organizations -glossary. -Pursue funding to develop a resilience hub master plan that identifies existing community facilities that can serve as resilience -Number of community resilience hubs. (Conservation -Contra Costa County Fir Add "and promote microgrid deployment in impacted and Development) Protection District communities." Define microgrid in glossary. hubs and support affected populations during hazard events. This -Number of permits issued for battery storage projects. -Contra Costa County Consider adding action: Work with partners and process should start with an assessment of community needs. environmental justice organizations to install microgrids Such facilities should be distributed equitably throughout the (Conservation and Development) Sheriff's Office of in the most impacted neighborhoods in unincorporated I county, with an emphasis on easy access for Impacted Emergency Services c~unty. Add performance measure. Communities. Where appropriate facilities do not exist, develop -Employment and Human plans to create new resilience hubs. Services -Environmental justice organizations 15 POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND POTENTIAL PARTNERS, CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS L APPLICABILITY, AND EAD DEPARTMENTS TIME FRAME -Pursue funding to implement the resilience hub master plan, including retrofitting selected facilities to function as resilience hubs. These retrofits should involve adding solar panels, battery backup systems, water resources, supplies to meet basic community and emergency medical needs, and other needs as identified by the resilience hub master plan. -Create a virtual resilience hub that connects County resources to communities through virtual community networks to provide detailed, up-to-date information about preparing for natural disasters, public safety notifications and alerts, space for virtual gathering and information-sharing, and other appropriate uses. Materials shall be accessible in multiple languages. -Coordinate resilience hub activities with planning efforts around public safety power shutoffs and wildfire smoke resiliency. Key Performance Metric(s): -!Facility ope rators (sch ool Commented [LG39]: list childcare centers as well. districts, libraries, community centers, etc.) -Jurisdictional fire departments . _, _ -_Homeless service ______ Commented [LG38]: Add air filtration. providers -Medical service providers -211 -Contra Costa County Office of Education -Local school districts -Red Cross Applicability -County operations -Residents in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Mid-term (by 2028) [Potential Partne~-----Commented [LG42]: Add 1PM Committee. Nl-4: Sequester carbon on natural and working lands in Contra Costa County. -Pursue implementation of recommendations from carbon sequestration feasibility study, Healthy Lands, Healthy People. -Completed feasibility study for carbon sequestration in -Agricultural groups -------cc,iifra-Ccfsta -counn.,_-(Cof1s-erva.UoiianclDeVel_6_p_ment)-----commurnn, garderifr1g___ Commented [LG40J: Recomme nd adding "Naturally" •1 •1 to this strategy. -Continue to support and work with key partners to maintain existing and establish new pilot programs for carbon sequestration on agricultural land. -Promote restorative agricultural ~ri_q landscaping techniques that incorporate cover crops, mulching, compost application, field Supportive Performance Metric(s): groups -Community-based -Number of completed pilot carbon farming project(s). -Progress report on implementation of County's Green organizations Infrastructure Plan for County facilities. (Public Works) -Contra CoS t a Resource Conservation District ---------------------------------------------•-----------------------~~::-r~~y -Region-al -Pa-r1<-l;~~~!e: 0 ~~~:~~~o we mean regenerative? Or do j 16 POTENTIAL PARTNERS, POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS APPLICABILITY, AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS TIME FRAME borders, alley cropping, conservation crop rotation, prescribed grazing, and reduced tillage to promote healthy soil and soil conservation. (COS-P2. 11) -Support soil conservation and restoration programs. Encourage agricultural landowners to work with agencies such as the USDA's NRCS and Contra Costa RCD to reduce erosion and soil loss. (COS- P2. l 0) -Coordinate with farming groups, ranchers, the Contra Costa Resource Conservation District, and the University of California Cooperative Extension to identify and promote varieties of feedstock, livestock, and crops that are resilient to rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns and that increase carbon sequestration. -Explore ways to increase carbon ls_~gy_estr~~ion on County-owned _ facilities. -Partner with regional landowners and agencies to establish carbon sequestration programs and incentives. -Consider th~ development of carbon offset protocols and guidance for use by carbon sequestration program .~PJ?!i_<;_a!:lts and C~_ynty __ permitting staff to promote appropriate sequestration on natural and developed lands. -Ensure that any local or regional carbon sequestration program that the County establishes, promotes, supports, or joins must provide benefits to unincorporated communities that face environmental justice issues. -Explore the potential for the public to support tree planting and maintenance of existing trees. -Establish a mechanism to support expanded tree planting and -Quantity of SB 1 383-compliant compost procured and utilized by the County directly or on the County's behalf. (Public Works, Conservation and Development) -Save Mount Diablo, John Muir Land Trust, and other land conservation organizations. -Environmentaljustice organizations -Organizations that support regenerative landscaping and agriculture. -Regional landowners -UC Cooperative Extension -Contra Costa Health ---------------------------------ApplicablHty -Commented [LG43): Add "natural" to increase carbon . sequestration. -County operations -I ------------------ -East Contra Costa Cou_~Y . .. ,, ] HabitaTConseivancy Commented [LG44J. Add natural here. -Natural and working -------------------------------------------------------------1-amis --------------•• -l Commented [LG45]: Question: which program is this? j -Residents in unincorporated areas. -l r~ --=-=-Bustne-sse-s-irr ----------~mmented [LG46J: Add "natural'' unincorporated areas. Time Frame Long term (by 2030) l maintenance activities, particularly in areas with fewtrees .l_ _________ _ 1 Commented [LG47]: Consider reworking these actions j into a policy proposal: "Propose a Tree Planting Ordinance for adoption by the Board of Supervisors -Support protection, restoration, and enhancement of creeks, wetlands, marshes, sloughs, and tidelands, and emphasize the role 17 that would promote resident tree planting, public/private I partnerships, and maintenance efforts and expand tree planting and maintenance activities in public right of ways and in areas with low tree canopy." Or something like this. ________________ --.J1 POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND POTEN f!AL PARTNERS, CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS L APPLICABILITY, AND EAD DEPARTMENTS TIME FRAME of these features in climate change resilience, air and water quality, and wildlife habitat. (C0S-PS. l) -Inventory wetlands, floodplains, marshlands, and adjacent lands that could potentially support climate adaptation (e.g., through flood management, filtration, or other beneficial ecosystem services) and mitigation (e.g., carbon sequestration). (C0S-AS. l) -Encourage and support conservation of natural lands outside the urban limit line in the unincorporated county. ----· -!Explore the creation of a Climate Res ilience District.l_______ _ __________ . ------------------------------------------------------------------ -Require that any mitigation of air quality impacts occur on-site to the extent feasible to provide the greatest benefit to local residents. For mitigation that relies on offsets, require that the offsets be obtained from sources as near to the project site as possible. lfthe project site is within or adjacent to an Impacted Community, require offsets or mitigation within that community unless determined infeasible by the County (HS-Pl .6). Nl-5: Minimize heat island effects through the use of Key Performance Metric(s): cool roofs and green infrastructure.I -Number of permits for cool roofs, both private and -Coll nty facilitig,-(Corfs·ervatiornina mvetopmentr -Require landscaping [<?!_l]~_vy_~-~~~J9pment to. be dr~>Ught-to .leran ~, -Adoption ofa Tree Maste-r-Plan~(PubtieWorks➔-------- filter and retain runoff, and support flood management and -Percent of heat-vulnerable communities with tree cover groundwater recharge. (COS-Pl.?) / number of new tree plantings. (Public Works) -Promote installation of drought-tolerant green infrastructure, _ Square feet of pervious pavers installed. (Public Works) including lstreet tree (in_landscaped public areas. (C0S-P7.8) ________ . _ _, ---~--------"'·------ -Increase tree planting in urbanized areas, and open spaces whereSupporlive -Performance Metncls): ecologically appropriate, emphasizing areas with limited existing -Number of ER visits, deaths, and associated clinical care tree cover, using low-maintenance native tree species that are low related to extreme heat events. (Health) fire risk and ensuring water supply resources are not -Equity measure rankings on the Healthy Places Index. compromised. (C0S-P6.2) (Health) Potential Partners -Community-based organizations -=-E:-ommunity"9arde·~.i,ng groups -Environmentaljustite organizations = Organizations tha_t support regenerative landscaping and agriculture. -Water and wastewater service providers Commented [LG48): Would it make sense to add "and the issuance of green bonds as a potential financing mechanism" here? Commented [LG49J: Consider including: "tree canopy, cool paint and pavement, and other emerging strategies" as part of the description for this strategy. Other strategies to be considered for more actions could include wind corridors, optimizing shade and vertical greenery. Commented [LGSOJ: Contract with native plant businesses Commented [LG51]: Drought and heat-tolerant Commented (LG52}: Recommend using "fire resistant" when mentioning new trees. -Consider preparing and implementing a Tree_Master Plan for the _____ --=--~~~:~.!~:~t~~-~f5!~een stormwater infrastructure. . .... unincorporated county. (Public Works) -Contra Cost-a Health anc Commented [LG53J: It would be stronger to say related partners "Prepare and implement" vs. "consider preparing and L_ __________________________ ...._ ______________________ ~-~-~-------, implementing." ...__ ___________________ _, 18 P POTENTIAL PARTNERS CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS OTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND 1 LEAD DEPARTMENTS APPLICABILITY, AND -Provide shade trees or shade structures at parks, plazas, and other outdoor spaces. -Update County tree ordinance to consider whether factors for approval of tree removal and/or replanting requirements are adequately considering Impacted Communities (e.g ., tree cover, replanting standard). TIME FRAME -East Bay Regional Park District Applicability -County .operations -Existing development -New development -Residents in unincorporated areas. -Businesses in -Support efforts to develop incentive programs for home and business owners, school districts, and other local and regional property owners to increase the adoption of cool roofs and green infrastructure on private property. -1---t_m_in~co_x.c:.,p_o_r a:_t_e_d_a_r_e_a_s_. -l Commented [LG54]: Consider adding "and other Time Frame cooling strategies" or name other things like cool paint and pavement. ____ .., r-::--::=--::=--~~------:-------------+-------------------+-~M~id~te:_!:r~m~.(~by~2~0~2~Bt) _ _::] Nl-6: Protect communities against addltlonal Key Performance Metric(s): Potential Partners h d --Commented [LG58]: What are the "prior performance azar s created or exacerbated by climate change. -Health outcomes of residents in Impacted -Community-based reviews" mentioned in these metrics? Discourage new below k t t h · · H' h d ComriiUiiitien elatrve to the prior perform-ance review. organ1z t --,. -,C:CC= -= = ---mar e -ra e ousing m 1g an Very High a ions _ Commented [LGSSJ: The flooding section on pg. Wildfire Hazard Severity zonesl, J_~~-Wildl<!r.:i 1 -_1Jr ban Interface, and (Heal th ) -Contra CoS t a County Fir identifies the hazards of contaminated floodwaters Alquist-Priolo Fault Zones. Jf below-market-ra~~ housi~g ~ust -be -Number-of s~bSt andard-homes-that-pose-atrealth risk ---Protectton Distric~ reaching residents. This applies to higher sea levels constructed within these zones, require it to be hardened or make ----to·resldents-in ·lmpacted Communitiesre·lative-to1:he----"""-Facilityoperator s-(s<;hoo1 reaching contaminated brownfields. What is the County use of nature-based solutions to remain habitable to the greatest prior performance review. (Conservation and districts libraries'-. \ doing to map these hazards and have a plan to extent possible. (HS-P 3 .4) Development) commu~ity center~\ e~t mitigate the impact of floods and SLR? -Treat susceptibility to hazards and threats to human health and life -Amount of support provided to businesses in Impacted -Kensington Fire " ' Commented [LG56]: Wouldn't it be best to simply as primary considerations when reviewing all development Communities through the County's small business Protection District prohibit new housing (of any market rate) in any Very proposals and changes to land uses. assistance programs relative to the prior performance _ Rodeo-Hercules Fire High Wildfire Hazard Severity zone? This seems to P h rev · 1 ew (Co t · d D I ) conflict with Nl-2 action 1 on pg .153. -artner wit community-based organizations to provide • nserva ion an eve opment Protection District information to community members about how to prepare for -The rate of poverty in Impacted Communities relative -Moraga-Orinda Fire ., Commented [LG57]: What about in certain FEMA projected climate change hazards. to the prior performance review. (Conservation and District flood zones/maps? -Promote, and develop as necessary, available funding sources to Development) -San Ramon Valley Fire create incentives for residents and businesses to prepare for -Development and use of climate change vulnerability Protection District • natural disasters, particularly members of Impacted Communities. and resilience screening criteria for County capital -Medical service providers investment projects. (Conservation and Development) -Contra Costa Health and related partners 19 POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND POTENTIAL PARTNERS, CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS LEAD DEPARTMENTS APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME -Consider projected impacts of climate change when siting, designing, and identifying the construction and maintenance costs of capital projects. -Actively promote and expand participation in local and regional community emergency preparedness and response programs. -Support and fund efforts to enhance ongoing community and cross-sector engagement in community-level resilience and cohesion. Support non-government organizations to actively engage in developing a network of community-level actions that enhance resiliency. Supportive Performance Metric(s): -Number of County-led or -supported outreach and engagement activities in support of emergency preparedness and hazard mitigation. -211 -Red Cross -Sheriff's Office of Emergency Services Applicability -County operations -Existing development -New development -Residents in unincorporated areas. -Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Near term (by 2026) Climate Equity: Contra Costa County will address environmental factors leading to health disparities, promote safe and livable communitie Commented [LGS9J: Consider adding "using culturaj ly and promote investments that improve neighborhood accessibility. and linguistically appropriate methods" to this vision statement for climate equity. _ CE-1: Provide access to affordable, clean, safe, and healthy housing and jobs. -In partnership with community-based organizations, reverse community deterioration and blight and improve personal and property safety in neighborhoods throughout Contra Costa County. ~ Ensure that new housing for households making less than the area median income and housing for other Impacted Communities are outside of hazard-prone areas, including for wildfires, landslides, floods, and sea level rise, or that they are hardened or make use of nature-based solutions to remain habitable to the greatest extent possible. (HS-P4.3) Key Performance Metric(s): -Funds spent by County departments on energy efficiency and other services that support the Climate Action Plan goals in Impacted Communities compared to non-Impacted Communities. (Conservation and Development, Public Works) Supportive Performance Metric(s): -Measures of health and social impacts of climate change that can reveal significant disparities and inequities across groups. (Health) 20 Potential Partners -Community-based organizations -Environmental justice groups -Local grocery stores and food banks -Housing developers and contractors ~ Community colleges, schools, labor unions, and local career skills training prngrams POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND POT ENT IAL PARTNERS, CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS L APPLICABILlrY, AND EAD DEPARTMEN TS TIME FRAME -In partnership with community-based organizations, se,cure funding to establish a program to provide low-cost or free air conditioning and filtration , improved insulation, low-emitting materials, energy solar and storage systems, energy efficiency; and indoorventilation in homes, emphasizing buildings t .hat are home to Impacted Community members. (SC -A6.2) -Track development of local micro-grid battery storage policies and systems in other jurisdictions and identify potential opportunities for Contra Costa County. -Encourage companies and entrepreneurs from local universities and national labs to create jobs in such industries as renewable energy, transportation technology, diverse forms of manufacturing, biotech/biomedical, and clean tech. -Partner with local schools, the community college district, community-based organizations, labor tin ions, Workforce Development Boards, and other appropriate groups to provide training for residents for family-sustaining jobs in sustainable industries . Prioritize trai n i ng for people currently or recently working in polluting or extractive activities. (SC-Pl .1) -Provide support for State and federal programs that support family-sustaining jobs in sustainable industries, efforts to support organized labor, and living wage labor standards. -Adopt an ordinance at least as stringent as the State's maximum idling laws, and coordinate with CARB and law enforcement to achieve compliance. (HS-A 1. 5) -Workforce deve lopment prngrams -Workforce Development Boards Applicability -County operations -Existing development -New development -Residents in unincorporated areas. -Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time .frame Mid-term (by 2028) CE-2: [Invest in solutions to support climate equity ______ Key Performance Metric(s): Potential Partners Commented [LG60]: Consider adding this action: "In _ Evaluate and adjust County planning and expenditures for -Modified County investment policy to use ESG and to -Community-based all efforts to improve climate equity, ensure language continue to prohibit investment in all securities issued organizations access for Limited English Proficiency (LEP) residents l infrastructure and services as needed to ensure equitable C t C t E 1 :, by providing interpretation at meetings and translation investment in Impacted Communities, consistent with SB 1000. by fossil fuel companies. (County Administrator, -0 ~ ra os a m~ o~ee of materials into the most common languages in the L.._ __________________________ _i__T_re_a_s_u_r _er...;_/T_a_x_C_o_l_le_c_t_o_r) ____________ L..__R_e_t_Ir_e_m_e_n_t _A_s_s_o_c_1a_t _Io_n--1 unincorporated County, including the draft and final j versions of this CAP." ____________ _, 21 POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND POTENTIAL PARTNERS, CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS LEAD DEPARTMENTS APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME -Work with County departments to incorporate addressing climate Supportive Performance Metric(s): -Environmentaljustice change, providing climate solutions, and enhancing community -Advocacy for Contra Costa Employees Retirement groups equity more fully into County operations and the broad range of Association to use ESG in its investment priorities and -School and community services the County provides. to offer environmentally and socially responsible' l_ ____ college districts -As part of the 2024 CAP and General Plan implementation, investment choices for members. (Board of -:..::-eonuaCostaCounfy---i Commented (LG61]: CCCERA does not offer consider whether the strategy being implemented provides L"b investment choices for members. However, the County Supervisors) 1 rary contracts with Empower to offer investment choices for equitable benefits for Impacted Communities as a criterion for -Business groups employees who contribute funds to individual 457b prioritization. -Youth groups accounts. The County should ensure that Empower -Continually engage communities most affected by climate change Applicability offers ESG investment choices for employees. Note in developing and implementing climate solutions and ensure that that the provider .can change over time so it may be such solutions provide benefits to Impacted Communities. -Impacted Communities best to not name a specific company. -Advocate for the Contra Costa Employees Retirement Association -Residents in to include use of Environmental, Social, and Governance criteria in unincorporated areas. its investment policies. Time Frame -Require that the County's Deferred Compensation Plan provider Mid-term (by 2028) make available Environmental, Social, and Governance investment options for employees participating in the County's 457 deferred compensation plan. -Amend the County investment policy to consider the use of Environmental, Social, and Governance criteria and to continue and improve efforts to divest from fossil fuels. -Work with schools, Contra Costa County Library, business groups, and community-based organizations to educate and inform community members about climate change and related sustainability topics. -Evaluate the issuance of Labeled Bonds, such as "Green", "Sustainable", or "Social" bonds, during the planning stage of a bond issuance by the County. It is the County's preference to issue Labeled Bonds if the evaluation demonstrates a financial or policy benefit to the County. 22 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS CE-3: Increase access to parks and open space. -Establish a goal for all residents to live within a half-mile of a park or other green space,. _ -Support land acquisition for new parks and open space areas and protect such lands through fee title acquisition or through deed restrictions like conservation easements . -Continue to construct and develop opportunities for new trails. -Support investment in existing park facilities, in partnership with regional agencies. -Increase the tree canopy on public property, especially in Impacted Communities and areas with a high heat index, by prioritizing funding for new street tree planting and maintenance. (HS-P2.2) CE-4: Ensure residents have equitable, year-round access to affordable, local fresh food. -Support establishment of year-round Certified Farmers' Markets in all communities, prioritizing Impacted Communities. -Work with community groups to establish and maintain urban gardens, particularly on vacant lots and park land in Impacted Communities. (SC-P4. l) -Encourage imajor supermarkets to locate in Impacted Communities. -Support co-operative grocery markets in Impacted Communities. PO TENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS ANO LEAD DEPARTMENTS Key Performance Metric(s): POTENTIAL PARTNER~ APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME Number of residents in unincorporated county, -Agricultural groups including those in Impacted Communities, within a half--Contra Costa Resource ~_._ __________________ _ mife . of a park or other green space. (Conservation and -Conservation District Commented [LG62]: This is vague. Any patch of grass D I ) would qualify. eve opment -East Bay Regional Park ---------- -Total acres of parks and green space by type. District (Conservation and Development) -Environmentaljustice Key Performance Metric(s): -Number of regular Certified Farmers' Markets in all communities and in Impacted Communities. (Agriculture) -Number of permits issued for urban gardens in all communities (if permits are required by policy). (Ag ricu ltu re) Supportive Performance Metric(s): -Number of residents participating in In Lieu of Services (ILOS) food benefits. (Health) 23 groups -Local land trusts and land conservation groups -Housing developers AppUcablllty . .. ------1 Commented [LG63]: This action seems to fit better -New development under Nl-5 on page 157. ~ Residents in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Near term (by 2026) Potential Partners -Agricultural groups -Community gardening groups -Environmentaljustice groups -Farmers markets -Local grocery stores an u,,----'--------------------~ food b-anks Commented [LG64]: How about "provide incentives 1--A-p_p_l-ic_a_b_i_li_ty ____ ----1 for" instead of "en_c_o_u_ra_g'--e_" ______ _ -Residents in unincorporated areas . POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND POTENTIAL PARTNERS, CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS APPLICABILITY AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS ' CE-5: Ensure that large industrial facilities act as [good neighbors. ______________ _ -Provide recommendations to responsible permit agencies regarding permits for fossil fuel-based industries and point sources.I -Regularly track d~t~ ~~ lfos~il fu~I prod~ction ~nd-transp~rtation in Contra Costa County~ -Encourage the economic development of industries and supply chains that emphasize a reduction in GHG emissions. -Encourage economic development and job creation in industries that advance the County's sustainability goals, using the County's policy on enhanced infrastructure financing districts. -As economic conditions change, support efforts to phase out heavily polluting and extractive industries and replace them with businesses that contribute to a regenerative and circular economy. -Require new or expanded commercial and industrial projects exceeding 25,000 square feet of gross floor area to be near zero- emission operations, including the facilities themselves and the associated fleets, except for uses with fewer than five vehicles domiciled on-site . (HS-Pl .8) Key Performance Metric(s): -Quantity and type of fossil fuels produced, refined, stored in, and distril5utecnn th-eUi'i'iifcorporate_d _county; • to the extent data are available. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metrlc(s): -Information -on specific fos·sil fuel facilities in Contra Costa County, including changes of ownership, mergers and acquisitions, investor presentations and reports, or any other public information that may indicate a facility's interest or intent to expand in the future, considering broader market trends in oil and gas refining and export in the Bay Area. (Conservation and Development) -Lo~al air quality metrics. (Conservation and Development) Leadership Strategies: Contra Costa County is a model for how local government can take action on climate issues. Key Performance Metric(s): 24 TIME FRAME -Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Long term (by 2030) Potential Partners -BMQMD .• Commented [LG65J: Good neighbors is vague. Needs 1 -CARB definition. -Chambers of Commerce'---.--------------------· -East Bay Leadership Council • • --Commented [LG66J: New suggested language: I -=-Community-based Provide comment to responsible permitting agencies on permit applications for petroleum or fossil fuel- organizations related industries and other stationary sources of -Environmental justice pollution highlighting any inconsistencies with the goats groups of this CAP. -Industry groups Commented [LG67]: Do we only care about fossil ,_-_L_a_b_o_r _u_n_io~n_s-'--__ ___, fuels, or do we care about other products of petroleum Applicability -Industrial operations -Residents in unincorporated areas. -Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Ongoing and near term (by 2026) Potential Partners -All County departments refining? How regularly is regularly? POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AN D POTENTIAL PARTNERS, CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS APPLICABILITY, AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS TIME FRAME - L-1: Establish Contra Costa County as a leader among -Ongoing work products and semi -annual reports from -Interdepartmental Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force. Climate Action Task Force local governments for addressing climate issues. (Conservation and Development) -Community-based . -Continue to publicize and support the operations of the County's -Annual report on conditions placed on discretionary organizations Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force and Green projects to ensure support of Climate Action Plan goals. -Green Business Program Government Group (G3) Champions. (Conservation and Development) -Contra Costa County -Work with all County departments to encourage adoption of best -Number of County departments that have adopted Library practices from the County's Green Business Program and other their own Climate Action Plan. (Conservation and practices that support the County's climate goals. Development) Applicability -Encourage development of new policies and initiatives that support -.. -Cmmtyoperations Commented [LG68]: Consider adding metric: Number the County's climate goals. Supportive Performance Metric(s): -Businesses in I of departments following the Environmentally -Explore the creation of funding mechanisms, including a carbon -Number of County departments adopting best unincorporated areas. Preferable Purchasing policy and following its j impact fee, to support the County's Sustainability Fund for contracting requirements. practices of the Green Business Program. nvestments in County facilities if additional financial resources are (Conservation and Development) Time Frame needed. -Trainings and other information for County staff on Ongoing and midterm (by -Support legislative efforts to establish a green bank able to climate change. (Conservation and Development) 2028) equitably finance sustainability projects, including renewable -Amount of pesticides applied to County properties. energy, energy efficiency, and green infrastructure, for residential (Public Works, Health (IPM)) and commercial customers. (COS-A 14. l 0) -Number of County facilities with an active integrated -Ensure that funding mechanisms to address climate change pest management plan . (Public Works, Health (IPM)) minimize or avoid disproportionate financial impacts to Impacted Communities and do not exacerbate economic inequities to the -.. ·----------1 Commented {LG69]: Consider adding: Report on progress regarding the creation of a carbon impact fee extent feasible. and efforts to establish a green bank . -Facilitate trainings for County staff on climate change (including the .....___ --- l results of the Vulnerability Assessment and the 2024 CAP technical work) and how they can support climate action through their work with the County and at home. -Encourage County employees to explore innovative technologies and programs that address climate change. -Incorporate integrated pest management into new construction and retrofit programs on County properties. 25 POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND POTENTIAL PARTNERS, CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS L APPLICABILITY, AND EAD DEPARTMENTS TIME FRAME -Ensure County departments follow the County's Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Policy and policy requirements are included in the contracting process. -Regularly review and revise the County's purchasing and contracting programs as necessary to ensure consistency with the County's sustainability and GHG reduction goals. (HS-A3.2) -lf..L_ ___________________________________________________ ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Commented [LG70J: Consider adding: Use the ,_-_I!~_----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------··---------------------------------------------------_____________ -+----------~-------~--=-~--~--=-=--~-__. County's lobbyists in Sacramento and Washington to L-2: Continue to recognize the climate crisis as an emergency for Contra Costa County and make addressing climate change a top County priority. Key Performance Metric(s): Potential Partners address climate action policy barriers when identified. -Actions taken to implement Climate Emergency -All County departments Commented [LG71]: Question: Should the County be Resolution. (Conservation and Development) -Interdepartmental lobbying for a national (or State?) price on carbon _ Climate Action Task Forl.)a:ap=o=lic=y=?================~ -Continue to implement the 2020 Climate Emergency Resolution •••• • • ••• • -----·•·-•·· •• •-----------------------_ Community-based Commented [LG73]: Add: Checklist to evaluate approved by the Board of Supervisors, including conducting -•••• ------------------·-•-----------------------------------------organizatiorrs --planning and infrastructure expenditures against periodic revievys an~ upd_ates to th~_~es9_l~ti~t:il ____________ "---------............. .. .. . .. _ ....... .... .... ............ .... _ Local environmental ~~~t=~~;i~~tlities, equity concerns, resilience and -Consider climate vulnerabilities and associated equity effects as factors in the County's planning and expenditures for infrastructure and services to increase resilience and reduce GHG emissions countywide. -Consider development standards for the disclosure of climate and equity effects and vulnerabilities in staff reports for all decisions by the Board of Supervisors when such disclosures are helpful and necessary. Explore modifying County processes and forms to include questio ns to ensure the proposed action is consistent with the 2024 CAP and equity goals. -Assess County programs, policies, operations, and projects (excluding stationary sources) for their contribution to achieving the County's GHG emissions reduction goals and consistency with the 2024 CAP. -Disclose GHG emissions to a registry such as the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP). 26 groups Applicability Commented [LG74J: Add: Report on proposal to the Board of Supervisors to develop standards for climate ,__-_C_o_u_n_ty_o_p_e_ra_t _io_n_s~___, equity impact disclosures in relevant staff reports for Time Frame Mid-term (by 2028) •. Board actions. Commented (LG72]: Proposing even-year reviews. POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND POTENTIAL PARTNERS, CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS LEAD DEPARTMENTS APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME - Implementation Strategies: Contra Costa County wlll ensure It follows through to achieve the goals and actions In this Climate Action Plan. 1S-1: Monitor and report progress toward achieving Key Performance Metric(s): Potential Partners Climate Action Plan goals on an annual basis. -Preparation of Annual Report and presentation to -All County departments -Assign responsibility for facilitating and supporting 2024 CAP Sustainability Commission and Board of Supervisors. -Interdepartmental _ (Conservation and Development) Climate Action Task Force implementation to the County's Department of Conservation and -Dedicated funding in annual budget for -Sustainability Development. implementation of the 2024 CAP. (County Commission -Identify key staff from each department responsible for supporting Administrator) 2024 CAP implementation and updates for annual reporting and Applicability monitoring. -Regularly maintained 2024 CAP tracking tool. -County operations -Continue to involve community-based organizations and other key (Conservation and Development) -Residents in stakeholders in reviewing and recommending 2024 CAP action -Updates to County permitting system to support unincorporated areas. items. tracking of 2024 CAP implementation. (Conservation -Businesses in -Continue to prepare an annual progress report on implementation and Development) unincorporated areas. of the recommended GHG emissions reduction strategies and -Sustainability Fund progress report. (Public Works) Time Frame progress toward the 2024 CAP goals. When information is Ongoing and near term available, provide updates on estimated GHG emissions reductions (by 2026) and current GHG emissions levels. -Monitor implementation of the Sustainability Fund for projects in County facilities -Use the 2024 CAP implementation and monitoring tool to track GHG benefits from 2024 CAP implementation and identify progress toward the 2024 CAP reduction goals. -Pursue refinements to improve the County permitting system and other systems as needed to support collection of 2024 CAP implementation data. -Work with Contra Costa Health on exploring, and if appropriate, developing health indicators related to climate change to help inform progress on current actions and effectiveness of adaptation strategies. 27 POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND POTENTIAL PARTNERS, CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS LEAD DEPARTMENTS APPLICABILITY, AND Key Performance Metric(s): -Partnerships maintained. (Conservation and Development) TIME FRAME Potential Partners -All County departments -Interdepartmental IS-2: Continue collaborative partnerships with agencies and community groups that support Climate Action Plan implementation, with an emphasis on residents and community-based organizations from Impacted Communities. Climate Action Task Force .,... Participate in local and regional organizations that provide tools and support for energy efficiency, energy conservation, GHG emissions reductions, sustainable infrastructure development, adaptation, public information, and implementation of this 2024 CAP. -Enable effective partnerships to implement high-priority strategies from the 2024 CAP by working through established interagency collaborations and joint exercise of powers authorities and forming new arrangements of various types where necessary to be effective. -Provide input to partner agencies on policy barriers that need to be addressed at the State level. Key Performance Metric(s): IS-3: Secure necessary funding to implement the Climate Action Plan. -Climate action integration into all department work plans and capital improvement program. (County -Identify funding sources and levels for reduction strategies as part Administrator, Public Works) of annual reporting. -Number of grants and amount of funding being -Include GHG emissions reduction strategies in the capital pursued, awarded, and managed. (Conservation and improvement programs for County-owned and managed facilities -Sustainability Commission -Agency partners -Community-based organizations Applicability -County operations -Residents in unincorporated areas. -Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Near term (by 2026) Potential Partners -All County departments -Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force -Agency partners Applicability Development) and infrastructure, and other plans as appropriate. County operat·1ons -Funding provided for the Sustainability Fund. (County - -Pursue local, regional, state, and federal grants to support Administrator) -Residents in implementation. unincorporated areas. -... -l_ _______________________________________________________________________ --------------------------------------------------------------------_ -_Businesses in . ---~ Commented [LG75}: New action: Track and ,., unincorporated areas. disseminate to appropriate departments and partners I grant opportunities for CAP implementation 28 POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PER FORMANCE METRICS AND CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS LEAD DEPARTMENTS -Explore dedicated funding sources for 2024 CAP implementation, including from the Sustainability Fund or other revenue sources as needed. -Explore opportunities to allocate a portion of revenues from revenue-generating strategies in the 2024 CAP to its implementation. IS-4: Continue to update the baseline emissions Key Performance Metric(s): inventory and Climate Action Plan e!ery five_years. -Updated GHG inventories every five years. --------- -Prepare a GHG emissions inventory that shows GHG emissions (Conservation and Development) after emergency conditions created by the COVID-19 pandemic are expected to have ended. -Update the 2024 CAPto incorporate new technologies, practices, and other options to further reduce emissions. (HS~A3. l) 1S-5: Maintain and update the Climate Action Plan to Key Performance Metric(s): allow for greater resilience. -Progress on implementing GHG emissions reduction -Coordinate, where possible, updates of the Climate Action Plan, strategies, climate adaptation strategies, and general General Plan Safety Element, and Local Hazard Mitigation Plan sustainability strategies. (Conservation and cycles to ensure plan alignment and coordination of climate Development) mitigation and adaptation efforts. -Assess the implementation status and effectiveness of adaptation strategies. 29 ' POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME Time Frame Ongoing and near term (by 2026) Potential Partners ~ -All Coun!'{ de~a11_ments Commented [LG76]: Proposing that inventories be l frequently, ideally yearly, given -lnterdep-artmental updated much more Climate Action Task Fore the urgency and dep th of what we need to accomplish. Applicablllty Commented [LG77]: Proposing yearly. ) -County operations -Residents in unincorporated areas. -Businesses in unincorporated areas. Timeframe Mid-term (by 2028) Potential Partners -All County departments -Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force Applicability -County operations -Residents in unincorporated areas. -Businesses in unincorporated areas . “Provide a safe and reliable transportation network that serves all people and respects the environment” AERONAUTICS PROGRAM DIVISION OF TRANSPORTATION PLANNING P.O. BOX 942873, MS–40 | SACRAMENTO, CA 94273–0001 (916) 654-4959 www.dot.ca.gov April 8, 2024 Will Nelson Electronically Sent <will.nelson@dcd.cccounty.us> Principal Planner Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development 30 Muir Road Martinez, CA 94553 Dear Mr. Nelson, The California Department of Transportation, Caltrans Aeronautics has reviewed the Draft Environmental Impact Report for Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan and Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan 2024 Updates (aka Envision Contra Costa). One of the goals of the California Department of Transportation, Aeronautics Program, is to assist cities, counties, and Airport Land Use Commissions (ALUC) or their equivalent, to understand and comply with the State Aeronautics Act pursuant to the California Public Utilities Code (PUC), Section 21001 et seq. Caltrans encourages collaboration with our partners in the planning process and thanks you for including the Aeronautics Program in the review of the Draft EIR. Contra Costa County contains two public general aviation airports: Buchanan Field Airport and Bryon Airport. The Contra Costa County Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (ALUCP) adopted by the Contra Costa County Airport Land Use Commission sets the compatibility criteria applicable to local agencies in the preparation or amendments of land use plans and ordinances. An ALUCP is crucial in minimizing noise nuisance and safety hazards around airports while promoting the orderly development of airports, as declared by the California Legislature. Per the California Public Utilities Code Section 21001 et seq. relating to the State Aeronautics Act, Section 21676(b) prior to the amendment of a general plan…within the planning boundary established by the airport land use commission pursuant to Section 21675, the local agency shall first refer the proposed action to the commission. If the commission determines that the proposed action is inconsistent with the commission's plan, the referring agency shall be notified. Any proposed development in the defined safety zones, therefore, must adhere to the safety criteria and restrictions defined in the Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan(s) adopted by the ALUC pursuant to the PUC, Section 21674. Mr. Nelson, Principal Planner April 8, 2024 Page 2 “Provide a safe and reliable transportation network that serves all people and respects the environment” Caltrans Aeronautics acknowledges and commends Goal TR-7: Safe and viable general and commercial aviation activities in Contra Costa County and its subsequent policies which aim to ensure that development is compliant with airport land use requirements. If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact me by email at tiffany.martinez@dot.ca.gov. Sincerely, Tiffany Martinez Aviation Planner Caltrans Aeronautics Program c: State Clearinghouse <state.clearinghouse@opr.ca.gov> April 8,2024 Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development 30 Muir Road,Martinez,CA 94553 RE:General Plan,Climate Action Plan,Environmental Impact Report Comments submitted by email to:email@envisioncontracosta2040.org Dear Chair Glover,Board of Supervisors,and Department of Conservation and Development: We submit these comments primarily to describe the inherent risks in hydrogen and biomethane infrastructure development as part of the County’s climate commitments,and outline other improvements.While our comments focus on these issues,we also uplift comments submitted by 350 Bay Area and others on ways that the General Plan,Climate Action Plan,and related Environmental Impact Report can and should be more protective of environmental justice communities. We are committed to working with the County as stewards of a long-awaited shift away from an extractive fossil-fuels based economy that will dramatically improve air quality for fenceline communities and reduce the harms of the climate crisis for the whole County.We should use this opportunity to grow a regenerative and collective economy that centers the needs of our fenceline communities throughout,supporting residents and workers along the way,in a just and equitable transition.As the County,state and country develop and implement policies that recognize the climate crisis and support a decarbonized grid,we are reminded that:“Transition is inevitable.Justice is not.”1 I.We support,if amended,the County’s many community-rooted climate solutions. The County proposes a number of laudable policies that advance a just and equitable transition. Other policies described in the General Plan and Climate Action Plan would benefit from additional safeguards to ensure that the policies are equitable and do not exacerbate existing environmental justice inequities. Building Decarbonization This emphasis on equity is reflected in BE-2 where the Country describes its intent to develop programs to support residential electrification.2 By prioritizing those with the least means to bring 2 “Climate Action Plan,”Contra Costa County,October 2023, https://envisioncontracosta2040.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-1 0-10-23_Final.pdf,[hereinafter “Climate Action Plan”]at 77 (“Ensure County-led and supported retrofit programs incentivize and prioritize conversion of buildings built before 1980 and emphasize assistance to 1 “Just Transition,”Movement Generation,https://movementgeneration.org/justtransition/. 1 decarbonization into their own homes,the County is helping avoid a possible catastrophe where only those who could not afford to get off the natural gas system are those who are left to pay for the maintenance,repair and crises of an aging infrastructure system.On this program and others,even where a community-based organization (“CBO”)may lack technical expertise or physical capacity to implement electrification projects inside residents’homes,the County should still partner with CBOs who have trusting relationships in communities centered with these policies as a way to establish trust and promote participation through holding community meetings and demonstrations,relying then on additional organizations with capacity to effectuate the program. We encourage the County to connect with the City of Los Angeles Climate Emergency Mobilization Office (CEMO)to understand the recommendations of the City of Los Angeles Report on Equitable Building Decarbonization and its underlying community engagement process.3 Additionally,we encourage the County to incorporate policies to protect tenants as recommended in the report Decarbonizing California Equitably:A Guide to Tenant Protections in Building Upgrades/Retrofits Throughout the State.4 Carbon Sequestration NI-4 describes the County’s goal to use working lands for carbon sequestration strategies to achieve net carbon neutrality.Our organizations celebrate the County’s approach to sequestration in that it relies on natural and working lands through trees and other green infrastructure,rather than the untested,risky technologies promoted by fossil fuel companies to otherwise store carbon via underground injection.5 At the same time,we should provide explicit guidance on how to implement the important principle that the County itself writes:“Ideally,the community will reduce its own emissions as much as possible [by other methods],and then balance out the remainder [with carbon capture].”6 This goal is also reflected in AB 1279 (Muratsuchi),which states “Prioritizing direct emission reductions will help California to meet both its air quality standards and net zero greenhouse gas emissions”given “the findings from numerous studies recognizing the benefits,risks,and uncertainties around the use of carbon dioxide removal technologies and carbon capture,utilization,and storage technologies.”7 7 AB 1279 (2022).https://legiscan.com/CA/text/AB1279/id/2606946. 6 Climate Action Plan,at 15. 5 Climate Action Plan,at 100.See also “Healthy Lands,Healthy People:A Carbon Sequestration Feasibility Study,”Contra Costa County,October 2023, contracosta.ca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/79768/Healthy-Lands-Healthy-People-Final-Report. 4 Strategic Actions for a Just Economy (SAJE),October 2023, https://www.saje.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Decarbonizing-California-Equitably-Report-1.pdf. 3 Emma French,Report on Equitable Building Decarbonization:Equity Focused Policy Recommendations for the City of Los Angeles,Prepared for the Climate Emergency Mobilization Commission and the Climate Emergency Mobilization Office (CEMO),Sept.15,2022, https://static1.squarespace.com/static/6425c19e4d543f40fa406953/t/65a08499faadfe0e9652ec40/17050 18528390/Report-on-Equitable-Building-Decarbonization-FINAL-September-15-2022.pdf. owners of properties that are home to very low-,low-,and moderate-income residents or located in Impacted Communities,as permitted by available funding.”). 2 First,we must clarify that these reductions should be the result of policies and practices that support direct reductions in consumer demand as well as policies or permitting decisions that support direct limitations on emissions that result in declining emissions.In short,ensuring less or no emissions are generated in the first place.The County should be explicit to signal that industrial carbon capture and sequestration (CCS)technology,which is unproven at scale and encourages continued investment in non-carbon but still health-harming polluting emissions,is not considered such a reduction strategy.We should also make explicit that industrial carbon dioxide removal (CDR)should be a backstop rather than the primary driver of carbon neutrality in the County.The County should collaborate with the Air District and further prioritize strategies that also improve air quality in areas with the worst cumulative air pollution impacts. The County’s goals in NW-1 to increase composting of natural waste,similarly,move us in the right direction,but need to be more protective of impacted communities.While proper composting of natural waste is preferable to increased landfill reliance,the Plan is silent on mitigation measures that would protect the communities that surround natural waste composting facilities from increased onsite processing.8 The County should develop policies that protect local air,water and soil quality and nearby residents from odor impacts in tandem with its natural waste composting goals.Additionally,as the County encourages more proper processing of organic waste,it needs to be careful to not encourage the creation of more organic waste,and instead proactively minimize waste.This is especially the case if the County intends to capture natural gas from recovered organic waste as to not create incentives to produce more underlying organic waste.9 If that County does pursue that waste-to-gas implementation strategy,it should safeguard against fossil gas expansion alongside development of those waste-based technologies so that the resultant product is not a greenwashed fossil fuel blend product. Renewable Energy Finally,one of the most promising components of the Climate Action Plan are the County’s plans to increase use and generation of electricity from renewable sources in BE-3.We are concerned,however,that while the 2030 goals suggest rapid progress in this decade,there is a large and unexplained drop off in a number of the 2045 projections,namely that there would be zero related greenhouse gas emission reductions for the 2030-2045 period.10 Instead,we ask that the County only continue to increase and accelerate its renewable electricity sourcing efforts over this period.If the County sees this as infeasible,we ask that the County explain that projection and its underlying analysis in greater detail than the Plan does now. \\ 10 Climate Action Plan,at 78. 9 Climate Action Plan,at 98. 8 Climate Action Plan,at 83. 3 II.Biomethane is a false solution that endangers public health both in its creation and in its use. The County forecasts that biomethane will be blended in pipelines as a replacement to natural gas.11 Instead,the County should develop and pursue strategies that do not rely on biomethane, which we call a false solution:though it may appear as an appropriate replacement for natural gas at first glance,biomethane poses too many public health risks to be included in the Climate Action Plan. Biomethane’s most ample local supply is the megadairies of the Central Valley;the manure from cows at these dairy farms feed methane digesters that then yields biomethane,all the while increasing reliance on the heavily pollutive dairy industry,further endangering the low-income farmworker communities that surround these pastorally-cloaked industrial operations.12 The Central Valley’s poor air quality is made worse yet by methane digesters which emit particulate matter and ammonia,yielding the highest ammonia concentrations in the state.13 Megadairies imperil the drinking water that farmworker communities rely on,elevating nitrate levels as a result of the manure seeping into groundwater,and the odor impacts are as awful as can be easily imagined.14 Contra Costa County is home to four oil refineries and knows the deleterious environmental and public health effects of the state relying on the region to produce energy for everyone else;the County should not now shift that unjust -and unnecessary -burden to Tulare County and the rest of the San Joaquin Valley. Much of the evidence to support these warnings have been aggregated not only by environmental justice groups who have always opposed these false solutions,but now increasingly environmental groups and academics who originally supported the creation of the Low Carbon Fuel Standard like the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS)and the Natural Resources Resources Defense Council (NRDC)have joined in the chorus of warnings.15 But, given state policy inertia,distorted accounting related to the harms and benefits of biomethane production and use continues to favor this especially problematic source over other investments 15 “Recommendations for Updates to the Low Carbon Fuel Standard,”Natural Resources Defense Council,June 14,2023,https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/form/public-comments/submissions/4036;Jeremy Martin, “Something Stinks:California Must End Manure Biomethane Accounting Gimmicks in its Low Carbon Fuel Standard,”Union of Concerned Scientists,February 15,2024, https://blog.ucsusa.org/jeremy-martin/something-stinks-california-must-end-manure-biomethane-accounti ng-gimmicks-in-its-low-carbon-fuel-standard/. 14 Rebecca Spector,“The Dairy Digester Dilemma:A False Climate Solution,”Center for Food Safety, Oct.4,2021, https://www.centerforfoodsafety.org/blog/6457/the-dairy-digester-dilemma-a-false-climate-solution. 13 Briscoe biomethane article;Michael Holly et.al.,“Greenhouse gas and ammonia emissions from digested and separated dairy manure during storage and after land application,”Agriculture,Ecosystems &Environment 239,Feb.15,2017,410-419, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0167880917300701. 12 Tony Briscoe,“Why some people think California’s cow manure methane plan stinks,”Los Angeles Times,Dec.5,2023, https://www.latimes.com/environment/story/2023-12-05/californias-cow-manure-methane-plan-is-making- people-angry [hereinafter “Briscoe biomethane article”]. 11 Climate Action Plan,at 64,B-45. 4 to be funded by the state’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard.16 The effects of perverse incentives created by runaway policies due for for corrections should not be taken as evidence that biomethane is a reliable,much less responsible,energy source for the future. The California Energy Commission studied replacing in-home natural gas with biomethane and found that combustion of biomethane was just as toxic,if not more toxic,than natural gas, including on DNA damage and increasing cancer risks.17 Even if biomethane is restricted to industrial clusters18 (or even just to wastewater plants19),that merely,and unacceptably,directs the public health dangers towards industrial workers. Taken together,the environmental injustices in the production of biomethane at megadairies,the shoddy calculations and unreliable financial incentives that have propped up this industry,and the end-use public health risks all lead us to urge the County to reject biomethane as a component of the Climate Action Plan.Since the current draft of the Climate Action Plan relies on biomethane to achieve some of its greenhouse gas emissions,the County needs to develop alternative methods to accomplish those same emissions.To that end,we believe that reducing vehicle miles traveled and increasing public transportation infrastructure is the most efficient strategy,reducing energy needs and greenhouse gas emissions as effectively as possible in the greatest emitting sector. III.While just a minor component of the Climate Action Plan,the County should not rely on hydrogen as a future fuel source. We are glad to see little reliance placed on hydrogen as a fuel source in the Climate Action Plan.The few references made are in the context of transportation and biomethane.The section above addresses the latter.On transportation,the County’s own words in the Climate Action Plan point towards the strategy we encourage:“Gasoline and diesel-fueled vehicles in particular release more carbon dioxide into the atmosphere than vehicles that use electricity or hydrogen fuels,even when accounting for how the electricity or hydrogen is generated.”20 While this two-strategy approach mirrors state policy,21 hydrogen production could easily entrench existing environmental inequities rather than promote a Just Transition. 21 See,e.g.,Executive Order N-72-20,Sep.23,2020, https://www.gov.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/9.23.20-EO-N-79-20-Climate.pdf;“2022 Scoping Plan for Achieving Carbon Neutrality,”California Air Resources Board,Dec.2022, https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2023-04/2022-sp.pdf [hereinafter “2022 CARB Scoping Plan”],at 189-192. 20 Climate Action Plan,at 92. 19 Climate Action Plan,at 83. 18 Climate Action Plan,at B-30. 17 “Air Quality Implications of Using Biogas to Replace Natural Gas in California,”California Energy Commission,May 2020,https://www.energy.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2021-05/CEC-500-2020-034.pdf. 16 Kiki Velez,“CARB Must Reform LCFS Program to Meet Climate Goals,”Natural Resource Defense Council,Aug.23,2023, https://www.nrdc.org/bio/kiki-velez/carb-must-reform-lcfs-program-meet-climate-goals-0;see e.g.,Jeff St. John,“Critics question assumptions at core of Low Carbon Fuel Standard,”Canary Media,Mar.14,2024, https://www.canarymedia.com/articles/transportation/critics-question-assumptions-at-core-of-california-low -carbon-fuel-program 5 The 2022 CARB Scoping Plan projects a precipitous decline in in-state demand for gasoline and petroleum-based products by 2045.22 It further muses that “existing refineries could be repurposed to produce [...]hydrogen.”23 That would be a calamitous environmental justice failure.As the County knows,“[t]he differences in criteria pollutant emissions between [...] processing of petroleum-based feedstocks and renewable feedstocks is small,as renewable fuels processing operates within the same range of operating parameters as petroleum-based production.”24 The County must commit to a future where oil refineries are decommissioned rather than one that prolongs reliance on the oil industry,defers environmental remediation of toxic sites,and endorses existing pollution burdens that disproportionately fall on low-income communities of color. Hydrogen can be produced from processes other than existing refineries,of course,but there is no model we endorse.So-called “green”hydrogen,where renewable energy is the source of energy for electrolysis (a process by which hydrogen is extracted from water molecules)is a misnomer,willfully obscuring the inefficiency and loss of 50-80%of the energy inherent in producing hydrogen via electrolysis and then from combusting hydrogen to generate electricity again.25 Instead,we encourage maximization of renewable energy sources that feed directly into the grid to meet consumers’needs,including in the transportation sector and accordingly encourage the County to pursue electric transportation options as it plans for the energy transition. IV.Climate planning requires inclusion of local refineries and other large industrial facilities under County jurisdiction. Notably missing from the Climate Action Plan are the largest sources of industrial sector greenhouse gas emissions in the state:oil refineries.These oil refineries also produce the very fuels that make the transportation sector the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the state.While addressing the cumulative and disproportionately harmful pollution burden that falls on refinery fenceline communities,planning for a community-and-worker-centered managed decline of greenhouse gas emissions from oil refineries will be necessary to meet county,state, and global climate goals. The County has excluded from its greenhouse gas inventory -and from the rest of the Climate Action Plan -large industrial facilities,including oil refineries under a theory that “[t]hese 25 Jeff St.John,“The problem with making green hydrogen to fuel power plants,”Canary Media,Oct.10, 2023, https://www.canarymedia.com/articles/hydrogen/the-problem-with-making-green-hydrogen-to-fuel-power- plants. 24 “Rodeo Renewed Project Draft Revised Environmental Impact Report,”Contra Costa County,Oct. 2023, https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/80824/Phillips-66-Rodeo-Renewed-Project-Draft- Revised-EIR-October-24-2023,at 16. 23 2022 CARB Scoping Plan,at 191. 22 2022 CARB Scoping Plan,at 100-110. 6 facilities are regulated by the State and BAAQMD,and the County does not have direct control over their operations.”26 First,while the State and Air District do regulate these facilities (and many if not all of the other contemplated regulated parties under the Climate Action Plan),so does the County;the County’s own Industrial Safety Ordinance uniquely applies to two refineries and related facilities within its jurisdiction.27 Second,the County’s involvement as the lead agency for analysis and review under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”)for two biofuel conversion projects at local refineries,with accompanying permit decisions,further evinces the County’s role in regulating and controlling these facilities.28 As the County wrote in the 2021 Draft Environmental Impact Report for the Martinez Refinery Renewable Fuels Project, “The Project also requires discretionary action by Contra Costa County (County),wherein the County has the authority to use its judgment in deciding whether or how to carry out or approve the Project.[...]As the public agency with primary land use authority over the proposed Project, the County is the ‘lead agency’overseeing and administering the CEQA environmental review process.”29 The County should not seek to relinquish its broad discretionary authority over these facilities or advance a narrative that that regulation of them is solely in the purview of state agencies;the County has a responsibility here. At the very least,the County should meet the bare examples of Richmond and Los Angeles and contextualize its own greenhouse gas emissions inventory and reduction plans with side-by-side comparisons of totals that include the emissions from the large industrial facilities,including oil refineries.30 Both cities pass on specific emissions reduction goals for refineries,but do report the totals;Los Angeles also does offer that it will “[s]upport the implementation of refinery and heavy duty industry emissions reduction plans,”including leak detection and repair initiatives and implementing control technologies.31 The California Air Resources Board released 2022 emissions data late last year to support that will support this exercise.32 \\ 32 “Annual Summary of GHG Mandatory Reporting,”California Air Resources Board,Nov.6,2023, https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/sites/default/files/classic/cc/reporting/ghg-rep/reported-data/2022-ghg-emissions-2 023-11-06.xlsx. 31 Los Angeles Climate Action Plan,at 91. 30 “Climate Action Plan,”City of Richmond,October 2016, ci.richmond.ca.us/DocumentCenter/View/40636/CAP-combined?bidId=,at 27;“L.A.’s Green New Deal, Sustainability Plan 2019,”City of Los Angeles,2019, plan.lamayor.org/sites/default/files/pLAn_2019_final.pdf,[hereinafter “Los Angeles Climate Action Plan”] at 91 (noting that 2015 greenhouse gas inventory data included large industrial facilities,including petroleum refineries,and they are included in the City’s industrial emission goals in the box at the top of the page). 29 “Martinez Refinery Renewable Fuels Project Draft Environmental Impact Report,”Contra Costa County, Oct.2021, https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/72957/Martinez-Refinery-Renewable-Fuels-DEIR- Vol-1-Complete-DEIR,at 1-1. 28 “Phillips 66 Rodeo Renewed Project,”Contra Costa County,last updated Jan.5,2024, https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/7945/Phillips-66-Rodeo-Renewed-Project;“Martinez Refinery Renewable Fuels Project,”Contra Costa County, 27 “Industrial Safety Ordinance,”Contra Costa Health, https://www.cchealth.org/health-and-safety-information/hazmat-programs/industrial-safety-ordinance. 26 Climate Action Plan,at B-17. 7 Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the Climate Action Plan.We look forward to supporting and celebrating the County’s many successes as it plans for this energy transition, with justice at the heart of it.To that end,we are requesting that we set up a meeting with your team so that we can collaborate on language that reflects our suggestions.Please contact us with any questions via email at conniecho@apen4ej.org and kerry@cbecal.org. Sincerely, Connie Cho Just Transition Policy Strategist Asian Pacific Environmental Network Emma Ishii Local Policy Coordinator Asian Pacific Environmental Network Kerry Guerin Attorney &Just Transition Fellow Communities for a Better Environment 8 April 8, 2024 Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development Via Electronic Mail: email@envisioncontracosta2040.org RE: Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan Dear Department of Conservation and Development: Friends of Pleasant Hill Creeks (FPHC) is a nonproﬁt organization that works with the community to protect and restore Pleasant Hill’s creeks. We respectfully submit the following comments on the draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan. Grayson Creek Watershed: FPHC’s primary focus area is the Grayson Creek Watershed, also referred to as the Grayson-Murderer’s Watershed. Grayson Creek is a natural creek in Contra Costa County that rises in the Briones Hills, ﬂows through Lafayette, Pleasant Hill, and Pacheco, connects with Walnut Creek and then ﬂows into Suisun Bay. Most of the creek channels in the Grayson Creek Watershed are in natural or earthen condition (Contra Costa County Watershed Atlas (2004), 81), and as such they provide signiﬁcant riparian habitat and wildlife corridors. Grayson Creek is a valued resource for our communities that provides multiple beneﬁts including ecological, ﬂood protection, recreational, and educational beneﬁts. FPHC volunteers have documented more than 100 species of native California birds as well as river otters, beavers, and Chinook salmon in the Grayson Creek riparian corridor. Since 2017, many volunteers have engaged in creek cleanups, water quality monitoring, and wildlife surveys. As Grayson Creek is a major tributary to Walnut Creek, FPHC is a member of the Walnut Creek Watershed Council (WCWC). FPHC is currently participating in the development of the Walnut Creek Watershed Restoration Plan, a joint initiative of the WCWC, the Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District (FCD) and the Contra Costa Resource Conservation District (RCD). Comments and Recommendations on Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan: We appreciate the goals, policies, and actions in the draft 2045 General Plan that support the protection and restoration of our creeks and watersheds. Please see the attached chart (Appendix A) for speciﬁc comments and recommendations. Please feel free to contact us with any questions, and thank you for the opportunity to comment. Sincerely, Heather Rosmarin Co-Founder, Friends of Pleasant Hill Creeks pleasanthillcreeks@gmail.com cc: Supervisor Ken Carlson City Council of Pleasant Hill Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Contra Costa Resource Conservation District Walnut Creek Watershed Council 25A Crescent Drive #245, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523 | www.pleasanthillcreeks.org | @PHcreeks Friends of Pleasant Hill Creeks is a Project of Social and Environmental Entrepreneurs (SEE) a non-proﬁt public charity exempt from federal income tax under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. 2 Appendix A Comments and Recommendations on Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan (Bolded underline text indicates recommended revision) Plan Reference Comments & Recommendations 7-3 We strongly support Goal COS-1: “Preserved open space for environmental protection, resource management and production, recreation, scenic value, and climate resilience and adaptation.” • Please add a policy stating that it will be a priority to acquire, protect, and maintain open space adjacent to creeks and riparian corridors. This will facilitate restoration activities in alignment with Goal COS-5 as well as the 50-Year Plan “From Channels to Creeks,” adopted by the Board of Supervisors and FCD in 2009.1 • Re COS-A1.1: Please include creek and watershed stewardship groups such as the Walnut Creek Watershed Council in the annual staff-level meetings to review current and planned efforts to protect and maintain open space. 7-13 ff We strongly support Goal COS-4: “Preserved and enhanced ecological resources and wildlife habitat.” • Re COS P4.4: Please note that creeks, including channelized creeks that ﬂow through urbanized areas, provide vital habitat and wildlife migration corridors throughout the county. • Re COS-P4.9: We strongly support reestablishment of native ﬁsheries to the county’s streams. Salmonids such as Chinook salmon have been documented in Walnut Creek and Grayson Creek, but they are currently unable to complete their natural life cycle due to barriers to ﬁsh passage and other challenges. Reestablishing native ﬁsheries will require addressing these challenges. Please add an action to work with state and federal agencies and stewardship groups to identify and, where feasible, address barriers to ﬁsh passage and other challenges to ﬁsh survival. • Re COS-A4.1: We strongly support ecological inventories and would be pleased to submit data to this process. Please notify Walnut Creek Watershed Council and Friends of Pleasant Hill Creeks of opportunities to contribute. 7-17 We strongly support Goal COS-5: “Protected and restored natural watercourses, riparian corridors, and wetland areas that improve habitat, water quality, wildlife diversity, stormwater ﬂows, and scenic values.” • The term “natural watercourse,” which is used multiple times in the draft 2045 General Plan, is undeﬁned. Please use the term “creeks” instead of “natural watercourses.” The term “creeks” is consistent with the title of the Plan section “Creeks, Wetlands, and Riparian Areas” as well as with other relevant planning and regulatory documents, and we believe it is the more appropriate term for the reasons provided below. This recommended revision applies to COS-5, COS-P5.2, COS-P5.5, COS-P5.6, and COS-P5.7. • Most of the creeks in the Grayson Creek Watershed, as well as the Walnut Creek Watershed, are in natural condition (Contra Costa County Watershed Atlas (2004), 80-81), and many of those that have been channelized continue to serve as vital riparian corridors. In our view, all creeks (and their tributaries) should be considered ecologically signiﬁcant resources because they provide natural habitat value, wildlife corridors, and other ecosystem services (e.g., mitigation of ﬁre and ﬂood risks) even if they have been modiﬁed. For example, in Pleasant Hill, an avian biodiversity survey of two sections of Grayson Creek that include earthen channels documented more than 100 species of native and migratory California birds. (See attached Grayson Creek Bird Survey Species List.) We also recognize the importance of restoring those sections of creek that have been signiﬁcantly modiﬁed with concrete channels and drop structures, particularly on Walnut Creek, which is why we strongly support the 1 https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/6853/50---Year-Plan-3-20-09-BOS-compressed- PDF?bidId= 3 implementation of the 50-Year Plan and the development of the Walnut Creek Watershed Restoration Plan. 7-17 Introductory paragraph of “Creeks, Wetlands, and Riparian Areas” should reference creeks. • Please revise: “Contra Costa County hosts abundant aquatic habitat through its freshwater and coastal salt marshes, mud ﬂats, inland wetlands, creeks, and riparian vegetation.” 7-17 Second paragraph should reference Suisun Bay. • Please revise: “….many creeks, streams, and other drainages … ultimately drain into San Francisco Bay, San Pablo Bay, Suisun Bay, and the Delta.” 7-17 The draft 2045 General Plan references the FCD’s 50-Year Plan, but does not include speciﬁc policies or actions to implement it. • As part of Goal COS-5, please add a policy to support implementation of the 50-Year Plan. • Suggested implementation actions include: (i) Provide regular updates on progress of the 50- Year Plan; (ii) Identify and pursue funding opportunities for implementation of the 50-Year Plan; and (iii) Identify and pursue opportunities to acquire, protect, and maintain open space for the implementation of the 50-Year Plan. 7-18 Figure COS-5 does not show the county’s major watersheds, including the Walnut Creek Watershed, the largest in the county. Instead, Figure COS-5 appears to be a map of subwatersheds. The 2045 General Plan should include additional maps to inform the public and guide policy makers. • Please add map of the county’s major watersheds. See Contra Costa County Watershed Atlas (2004), 5, and Contra Costa Watersheds Stormwater Resources Plan (2019), Fig. 4-3.2 • Please add map of the creeks of Contra Costa County. See Contra Costa County Watershed Atlas (2004), 14, and Contra Costa Watersheds Stormwater Resources Plan (2019), Fig. 4-1. • Since the atlas of the county’s watersheds has not been updated since 2004, please add an action to update the Contra Costa County Watershed Atlas. Please note that the WCWC and FCD are in the process of preparing an updated map of the Walnut Creek Watershed, which will be shared with the Department of Conservation and Development as well as other relevant agencies. • We also recommended adding in this element or in the PFS element, a map showing the ﬂood control system that is maintained by the County. 7-19 It is not clear what the * means after some of the policies and actions. Please clarify what the * means. 7-19-20 We support the policies and actions in this section with the following recommended revisions and additions. • COS-P5.2: Consistent with Goal COS-5 and the 50-Year Plan, please revise to “and whenever possible restore and enhance … creeks, ﬂoodplains and riparian habitat.” A creek that has been channelized can also be restored or enhanced. • COS-P5.5: Please revise: “Acquire deeded development rights to setback areas surrounding wetlands, ﬂoodplains, and creeks to ensure preservation of the resource and protect adjacent improvements.” • COS-P5.6: Please revise: “Require increased setbacks for animal-handling uses whenever necessary to protect creeks, wetlands, riparian habitat, or erosion-prone soils…” • COS-P5.7: Please revise: “Allow encroachments into required setback areas along creeks and wetlands for the purpose of constructing low-impact public improvements or public- serving amenities, such as foot-bridges, trails, and nature viewing areas, if a qualiﬁed 2 https://www.cccleanwater.org/userﬁles/kcﬁnder/ﬁles/CCW%20SWRP%20Main%20%2B%20App%20A.pdf 4 biologist conﬁrms that the additional infrastructure / amenities are compatible with the protection of ecological values.” • COS-A5.1: This inventory should include creeks and riparian corridors because the removal of invasive species and revegetation with native plants can reduce climate-related risks of ﬁre and ﬂooding. • COS-A5.3: Landscaping within a creek setback should be limited to native California species. • COS-A5.5. We strongly support expanding the application of the county’s creek setback requirements; however, the creek setbacks identiﬁed in Title 9 are insufﬁcient. Signiﬁcant setbacks (at least 50 feet from the top of the creek bank) should apply to all creeks regardless of their current condition. These setbacks should apply to all new development and when approvals are being sought for improvement or modiﬁcation of existing developed areas. The County has committed in its 50-Year Plan to replacing infrastructure that has met its design life with a more natural solution. However, these natural solutions cannot be implemented without space to allow a more natural function of a creek or tributary. Creeks, tributaries, and all waterways are dynamic systems that require space to meander, grow vegetation, accumulate dead vegetation, and permit other processes that allow viable habitat to form, provide ﬂood conveyance, scenic resources, climate resilience, and other valuable functions that our waterways provide. In the past, in urban parts of the County, sections of creeks and tributaries have been modiﬁed, channelized, or piped. Today we see the error in that methodology through loss of vital biological systems, community connection to our creeks, and costly maintenance. It is important not to repeat the mistakes of the past. Increased setbacks will not only help achieve the county’s environmental protection and restoration goals, they will also help improve stormwater conveyance, increase climate resilience, and reduce ﬂood risk both for existing homes and businesses as well as for new sustainable development in our communities. The County’s draft 2045 General Plan and the 50-Year plan set forth admirable goals and a framework for change. Expanded creek setbacks are necessary for any kind of true change in the future. • We therefore request that the draft 2045 General Plan include a policy to establish, at a minimum, a 50-foot creek setback regardless of current condition so that future restoration may be possible. Further we request that a study be performed within the next ﬁve years to establish biologically sound setbacks for creeks, including for urban creeks, that will allow as much natural function as possible. Creek and watershed stewardship groups should be involved in this study. • Please add a new policy to require new public infrastructure and private development projects to plant only native California species along creeks and riparian corridors. • Please add a new policy to acquire development rights and funding to facilitate restoration of creek, wetlands, and riparian areas in alignment with the 50-Year Plan and other county- involved watershed restoration plans and programs, such as the Walnut Creek Watershed Restoration Plan.3 • Please add a new policy to support equitable access to the beneﬁts of healthy creeks, including creation and maintenance of parks, trails, signage, and low-impact outdoor recreation opportunities such as birdwatching. • Please add a new policy to address pollution and other health hazards caused by homeless encampments in and near creeks by, e.g., providing additional resources for the county agencies responsible for outreach and cleanups. • Please add a new policy to prevent light pollution near creeks, wetlands, riparian corridors, and other sensitive wildlife areas. Light pollution interferes with the migration and life cycles of wildlife, particularly birds and bats. Therefore, if lighting is needed for public safety reasons, please add a policy to implement best practices for wildlife-friendly lighting near sensitive areas, including criteria regarding location & direction (low and downward facing), intensity, wavelength, and shielding. 3 See https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/10011/Walnut-Creek-Watershed-Restoration-Plan and https://www.wcwatershed.org/watershed-restoration-plan.html. 5 • Please add actions to implement the above recommended new policies. • Please add action to update the Contra Costa County Watershed Atlas (see above). 7-25 It is insufﬁcient to require drought-tolerant landscaping. The requirement should be to install native California landscaping. Invasive plants listed on the Cal-IPC database of invasive plants should be prohibited. • Please revise COS-P7.1 and COS P7.8 to require, or at least prioritize, California native plant species and to prohibit invasive species. 7-27 We strongly support COS-P7.10: “Support programs and activities conducted by community watershed groups and volunteers that increase public awareness and encourage stewardship of water resources.” • Consider noting that “stewardship of water resources” includes creek and wetlands protection and restoration. 8-12, 14 We strongly support Goal PFS-5: “Natural systems and ﬂood-risk management infrastructure that can handle stormwater year-round and adapt to new and changing conditions.” • Please revise PFS P5.5: “Require new development to participate in programs that ensure ongoing maintenance of creeks to maintain their ﬂood carrying capacity and habitat values.” • Please revise PFS A5.4: “Establish programs for development projects alongside creeks that ensure regular maintenance of the waterway, including debris removal, erosion control, and conservation and restoration of native species.” Grayson Creek Bird Survey Species List Grayson Creek Riparian Corridor sections between Oak Park Blvd. and Chilpancingo Parkway, Pleasant Hill, CA November 2017—November 2022 1. Greater White-fronted Goose (Anser albifrons) 2. Cackling Goose (Branta hutchinsii) 3. Canada Goose (Branta canadensis) 4. Wood Duck (Aix sponsa) 5. American Wigeon (Mareca americana) 6. Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) 7. Bufflehead (Bucephala albeola) 8. Hooded Merganser (Lophodytes cucullatus) 9. Common Merganser (Mergus merganser) 10. Wild Turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) * 11. Pie-billed grebe (Podilymbus Podiceps) 12. Rock Pigeon (Columba livia) * 13. Eurasian Collared Dove (Streptopelia decaocto) * 14. Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura) 15. White-throated Swift (Aeronautes saxatalis) 16. Black-chinned Hummingbird (Archilochus alexandri) 17. Anna’s Hummingbird (Calypte anna) 18. Rufous Hummingbird (Selasphorus rufus) 19. American Coot (Fulica americana) 20. Killdeer (Charadrius vociferous) 21. Wilson’s Snipe (Gallinago delicata) 22. Ring-billed Gull (Larus delawarensis) 23. California Gull (Larus californicus) 24. Double-crested Cormorant (Phalacrocorax auratus) 25. Great Blue Heron (Ardea Herodias) 26. Great Egret (Ardea alba) 27. Snowy Egret (Egretta thula) 28. Green Heron (Butorides virescens) 29. Black-crowned Night-Heron (Nycticorax nycticorax) 30. Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura) 31. Northern Harrier (Circus hudsonius) 32. Sharp-shinned Hawk (Accipiter striatus) 33. Cooper’s Hawk (Accipiter cooperii) 34. Red Shouldered Hawk (Buteo lineatus) 35. Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis) 36. Belted Kingfisher (Megaceryle alcyon) 37. Red-breasted Sapsucker (Sphyrapicus ruber) 38. Acorn Woodpecker (Melanerpes formicivorus) 39. Downy Woodpecker (Dryobates pubescens) 40. Nuttall’s Woodpecker (Dryobates nuttallii) 41. Northern Flicker (Colaptes auratus) 42. American Kestrel (Falco sparverius) 43. Merlin (Falco columbarius) 44. Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus) 45. Western Wood-Pewee (Contopus sordidulus) 46. Willow Flycatcher (Empidonax traillii) 47. Pacific-slope Flycatcher (Empidonax difficilis) 48. Black Phoebe (Sayornis nigricans) 49. Say’s Phoebe (Sayornis saya) 50. Hutton’s Vireo (Vireo huttoni) 51. Warbling Vireo (Vireo gilvus) 52. Steller’s Jay (Cyanocitta stelleri) 53. California Scrub-Jay (Aphelocoma californica) 54. American Crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) 55. Common Raven (Corvus corax) 56. Chestnut-backed Chicadee (Poecile rufescens) 57. Oak Titmouse (Baeolophus inornatus) 58. Northern Rough-winged Swallow (Stelgidopteryx serripennis) 59. Tree Swallow (Tachycineta bicolor) 60. Violet-green Swallow (Tachycineta thalassina) 61. Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica) 62. Cliff Swallow (Petrochelidon pyrrhonota) 63. Bushtit (Psaltriparus minimus) 64. Wrentit (Chamaea fasciata) 65. Ruby-crowned Kinglet (Regulus calendula) 66. Red-breasted Nuthatch (Sitta canadensis) 67. White-breasted Nuthatch (Sitta carolinensis) 68. Marsh Wren (Cistothorus palustris) 69. Bewick’s Wren (Thryomanes bewickii) 70. European Starling (Sturnus vulgaris) * 71. Northern Mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos) 72. Western Bluebird (Sialia Mexicana) 73. Hermit Thrush (Catharus guttatus) 74. American Robin (Turdus migratorius) 75. Cedar Waxwing (Bombycilla cedrorum) 76. House Sparrow (Passer domesticus) * 77. American Pipit (Anthus rubescens) 78. House Finch (Haemorhous mexicanus) 79. Purple Finch (Haemorhous purpureus) 80. Pine Siskin (Spinus pinus) 81. Lesser Goldfinch (Spinus psaltria) 82. Lawrence’s Goldfinch (Spinus lawrencei) 83. American Goldfinch (Spinus tristis) 84. Chipping Sparrow (Spizella passerine) 85. Fox Sparrow (Passerella iliaca) 86. Dark-eyed Junco (Junco hyemalis) 87. White-crowned Sparrow (Zonotrichia leucophrys) 88. Golden-crowned Sparrow (Zonotrichia atricapilla) 89. White-throated sparrow (Zonotrichia albicollis) 90. Savannah Sparrow (Passerculus sandwichensis) 91. Song Sparrow (Melospiza melodia) 92. Lincoln’s Sparrow (Melospiza lincolnii) 93. California Towhee (Melozone crissalis) 94. Spotted Towhee (Pipilo maculatus) 95. Western Meadowlark (Sturnella neglecta) 96. Hooded Oriole (Icterus cucullatus) 97. Bullock’s Oriole (Icterus bullockii) 98. Red-winged Blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus) 99. Brown-headed Cowbird (Molothrus ater) 100. Brewer’s Blackbird (Euphagus cyanocephalus) 101. Orange-crowned warbler (Leiothlypis celata) 102. Common Yellowthroat (Geothlypis trichas) 103. Yellow Warbler (Setophaga petechia) 104. Yellow-rumped Warbler (Setophaga coronata) 105. Black-throated gray Warbler (Setophaga nigrescens) 106. Townsend’s Warbler (Setophaga townsendi) 107. Wilson’s warbler (Cardellina pusilla) 108. Western Tanager (Piranga ludoviciana) Notes on other birds seen: • One Golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos): flyover. • One Red-naped x Red-breasted Sapsucker. • * Introduced species. Total Species: 108, Total Raptor Species: 9 Total Native and Migratory Species: 103 Data Source: Grayson Creek Bird Survey, a joint community science project of Friends of Pleasant Hill Creeks/SEE) and Mt. Diablo Audubon Society. Updated: 10/17/23. Contact: pleasanthillcreeks@gmail.com. Delta Protection Commission Comments: CONTRA COSTA COUNTY 2045 GENERAL PLAN AND CLIMATE ACTION PLAN DRAFT EIR 1 Delta Protection Commission EIR Comments 4.8.24 The Delta Protection Commission (Commission) is providing comments on the EIR for the Contra Costa County General Plan update in anticipation of our review of findings required by California Public Resources Code (PRC) Section 29763.5. The Scope of our review is limited to impact analysis and conclusions that would materially affect our ability to endorse findings that the General Plan update is consistent with that section, and our duty to minimize impacts in the area of our jurisdiction (the Delta Primary Zone) as a CEQA responsible agency. We first discuss the scope of our review and the necessary findings we must prepare before we can submit a staff report finding that the General Plan is consistent for Delta Protection Commission (Commission) approval. We then provide specific comments below. We have tried to provide an exhaustive review of your EIR in relation to our statutory duties for approval so that you may consider comments in a timely manner. However, because we must rely on your EIR and General Plan policies for making required findings for your General Plan, we encourage you to work with us as you prepare the final EIR and the final policies of the General Plan to support our findings. In addition, note that we may provide additional comments after the close of the comment period. These comments will be limited to issues that could affect our ability to make a finding of consistency with PRC Section (PRC) Section 29763.5 or satisfy CEQA. Scope of Review and Required Findings The Delta Protection Act requires the Commission to review General Plan updates for “local governments” as defined in the Delta Protection Act (PRC Section 29763.5). Because Contra Costa County is a “local government” within the meaning of the Act, your update requires these findings (PRC Section 29725). The findings required in Section 29763.5 are limited to the Primary Zone. However, in addition to the findings required in Section 29763.5, by regulation we must adopt mitigation for any significant impacts from the General Plan (14 Cal. Code of Regulations Section 20021(d) and 20019). If there are impacts that remain significant after mitigation, we must make the findings required by the California Environmental Quality Act at PRC section 21081 (see 14 Cal. Code of Regulations Section 20021(d) and 20019). We interpret this to be limited to impacts on the Primary Zone because the scope of our review under PRC Section 29763.5 is limited to the Primary Zone. Specific Comments Regarding Impacts in the General Plan EIR Comment 1: The Draft EIR is Represented as a Program EIR Which Will Support Tiering But it Should Make More Use of Mitigation Measures to Support Impact Reduction for Tiered Projects. Delta Protection Commission Comments: CONTRA COSTA COUNTY 2045 GENERAL PLAN AND CLIMATE ACTION PLAN DRAFT EIR 2 The Draft EIR (DEIR) is represented as a program EIR but lacks a full palette of mitigation measures that would enhance and streamline tiered projects and also help ensure impacts are avoided or reduced. “ This Draft EIR fulfills the requirements for a Program EIR. . .Once a Program EIR has been prepared, subsequent activities within the program must be evaluated to determine whether an additional CEQA document is necessary. However, if the Program EIR addresses the program’s effects as specifically and comprehensively as possible, many subsequent activities may be within the Program EIR’s scope, and additional environmental documents may not be required (CEQA Guidelines Section 15168[c]). When a lead agency relies on a Program EIR for a subsequent activity, it must incorporate feasible mitigation measures and alternatives from the Program EIR into the subsequent activities (CEQA Guidelines Section 15168[c][3]).” (DEIR at 1-3 to 1-4). While the DEIR properly relies up on General Plan policies to explain why some impacts are reduced or avoided, it misses the opportunity to further shape how tiered projects are implemented and impacts will be avoided or reduced through the consistent use of mitigation measures. In addition, the failure to incorporate robust mitigation measures hinders the utility of the EIR for purposes of substantiating consistency with the Delta Protection Act under PRC Section 29763.5 as well as our independent duty to avoid impacts or adopt our own mitigation via findings (14 Cal. Code of Regulations Section 20021 and 20019). Section 1.2.2 would also better support findings of consistency with Section 29763.5 if it provided, in the text, or an appendix, a short summary of all the kinds of discretionary actions that would be tiered projects, with a citation to the relevant County ordinance or code requiring a discretionary approval. By discretionary actions we do not mean specific projects as this cannot be known at this time – we mean the kinds of approvals that would be tiered from the General Plan EIR and subject to review for consistency with the General Plan and/or zoning code. This would allow us to show how future actions would be reviewed for consistency with the General Plan and thus, and by extension the Delta Protection Act because we could show the enforceability of the General Plan EIR and General Plan policies on specific project-level approvals that may occur in the future subject to review for General Plan/Zoning Code consistency. Comment 2: Buildout Projections for the Horizon Year Comments As a global issue it is hard to determine if there is consistency between impacts in different chapters and what the potential impact of the general plan would be without a visual depiction of the full buildout that may occur for the horizon-year projection described in page 3-24. Please provide a figure that shows the projected buildout assumption as a graphic depicting all land that would be developed based on the methodologies used in Section 3.7. For example, the Urban Limit Line (ULL) is relied up on the narrative as a means of controlling growth or justification for avoided impacts (see Aesthetics Impact 5.1-2), however, there is farmland conversion depicted outside the urban limit line in the Delta Primary Zone above the ULL polygon around Discovery Bay (compare Figures 3-2, 5.2-4, and 5.11-1). Delta Protection Commission Comments: CONTRA COSTA COUNTY 2045 GENERAL PLAN AND CLIMATE ACTION PLAN DRAFT EIR 3 Comment 3: Impact 5.1-2: Development under the proposed project would alter visual appearance in the county but would not substantially degrade its existing visual character or quality [Threshold AE-3] Requires Better Substantiation This impact statement is at odds with Figure 5.2-4 which shows farmland conversion in the Delta Primary Zone above the Discovery Bay ULL polygon and Impact 5.2-1 which concludes that up to 13,816 acres of farmland could be converted (total, not just in the Delta Primary Zone). Please add the Delta Primary Zone to the list of areas to be protected in Policy LU-P10.3 or an equivalent policy, and please create an overlay zone protecting farmland conversion in the Delta Primary Zone. Please then provide a revised impact statement in the Final EIR. The agricultural land uses in the Delta Primary Zone contribute to the overall visual character and feeling of the landscape. The agricultural land conversion contemplated in the EIR impact analysis for agriculture is inconsistent with this impact conclusion and the Commission’s duties under PRC Section 29763.5. Also, because the protection of the Delta Primary Zone is critical to the adequacy of this impact conclusion, the impact text should reference a table or appendix that lists out or reference an appendix describing that the kinds of future discretionary approvals that are subject to review for consistency with General Plan policies (see comments on Section 1.2.2 above). It would be ideal if the policy protecting the Delta Primary Zone was also flagged for inclusion into the Zoning Code amendments via an action in the draft general plan text. Please also acknowledge that the Zoning Code must be updated following the General Plan amendment process per Cal. Government Code Section 65860 in the text of the revised policy and or action to provide a clear mechanism for enforceability. If the text and policies are revised as suggested it will better support the significance conclusion by connecting the relationship of the policies listed above it to the impact conclusion through an analytical thread demonstrating that they will be legally enforceable. The text currently only reads “Level of Significance Before Mitigation: Impact 5.1-1 would be less than significant.” While the policies provided offer the beginning of a substantiated conclusion more connection is required. Per the leading legal desk book on CEQA, “an EIR must set forth the bases for its findings on a project’s impacts; a bare conclusion without explanation of its factual and analytical basis is not sufficient analysis of an environmental impact” (Kostka and Zischke 2023, Section 13.27, citing Laurel Heights Improvement Association v. Regents of University of California, 1988, 47 Cal. 3d. 376, 404). Comment 4: Impact 5.1-3: The proposed project would not generate substantial light and glare [Threshold AE-4], Requires Better Substantiation Please provide a citation or other documentation that the CalGreen building standards will be or have been incorporated into the County Code of Ordinances. This impact states that these standards will be enforced but a search of the County Code we found online does not actually contain the sections 74-8.002 to 74-8.006 which correspond to this material in the “CODE Delta Protection Commission Comments: CONTRA COSTA COUNTY 2045 GENERAL PLAN AND CLIMATE ACTION PLAN DRAFT EIR 4 COMPARATIVE TABLE AND DISPOSITION LIST.” The online version may be out of date, please clarify. This statement regarding CalGreen building standards supports the overall conclusion that the General Plan will not generate substantial light or glare which feeds into the justification that the project will not adversely affect aesthetic resources in the Delta Primary Zone which we must also confirm for our findings. The relatively dark, rural character of the Delta Primary Zone is an integral aspect of the feeling of the landscape. Comment 5: Impact 5.1.5 Cumulative Impacts Is Not Adequately Justified Because the program impacts above are not fully substantiated we cannot agree with the cumulative impact conclusion, especially with regard to farmland conversion depicted in the Delta Primary Zone. If the issues regarding the program impacts are addressed it will be adequate to support the cumulative impact. Comment 6: Impact 5.2-1: The proposed project could convert approximately 13,816 acres of Important Farmland to nonagricultural use, [Threshold AG-1] Requires Additional Mitigation and Policy Controls This impact includes farmland conversion in the Delta Primary Zone near Discovery Bay, near Knightsen, and on Jersey Island (see Figure 5.2-4 and 5.11-1). • If these projections are correct, we will not be able to make required findings under PRC Section 29763 subsections (a) ”The general plan, and any development approved or proposed that is consistent with the general plan, are consistent with the resource management plan”, and (h) “The general plan, and any development approved or proposed that is consistent with the general plan, will not adversely impact agricultural lands or increase the potential for vandalism, trespass, or the creation of public or private nuisances on public or private land.” In addition, if these projects are correct, the County and the Commission may have difficulty making the required CEQA findings for significant and unavoidable impacts required in PRC Section 21081, which require a showing that:  Mitigation has been adopted to reduce the impact (PRC Section 21081(a)(1), or  That mitigation is the responsibility of another entity or agency (PRC Section 21081(a)(2), or  Such mitigation is infeasible ((PRC Section 21081(a)(3)). There is a feasible mechanism for the County to avoid this farmland conversion: a policy against farmland conversion in the Primary Zone. Because this is feasible, the County cannot rely on the second and third prongs of PRC Section 21081 (i.e. that the mitigation that could reduce the impact is the responsibility of another entity or agency, or that such mitigation is infeasible). For significant and unavoidable impacts the lead agency must make one of these three findings. The Delta Protection Commission Comments: CONTRA COSTA COUNTY 2045 GENERAL PLAN AND CLIMATE ACTION PLAN DRAFT EIR 5 County could adopt an overlay zone as a General Plan policy or zoning code amendment that prohibits farmland conversion in the primary zone. Farmland conversion is an impact on aesthetic resources as described above, and inconsistent with the Delta Protection Act. In addition, conversion reduces the economic sustainability of the Delta. Our planning work documents that agriculture is the main economic driver of the Delta economy (Delta Protection Commission 2012:274). A dollar of agricultural crop revenue generates three to five times greater regional income than other leading revenue sources such as recreation or tourism (Delta Protection Commission 2012:274). The EIR states that “development of land outside the ULL is restricted to non-urban uses by the County’s ULL, which would help to prevent conversion of the majority (75 percent) of the total potential 13,816 acres” (EIR at 5.2-19). We contend that the ULL is a soft boundary which lacks the relatively greater enforceability of land use designations or an overlay zone prohibiting certain uses or conversions. We recommend you revise Policy COS-P2.2 to explicitly include protection of the Delta Primary Zone in the text of this policy, and also create an overlay zone protecting the entire Primary Zone with regard to agricultural conversion. We also recommend that these requirements be incorporated into the zoning code. The impact analysis does not meet CEQA standards for mitigation. In the impact analysis, when mitigation is considered, the text states: The criterion for mitigation under CEQA is feasible mitigation that lessens a project's impacts. Agricultural conservation easements are a possible mitigation measure under CEQA. Programs that establish agricultural conservation easements and in-lieu fees for mitigation banking are most effective when determined concurrent with project approval. However, the effectiveness and extent to which future projects would opt-in to agricultural conservation easements as mitigation measures cannot be determined in this analysis; therefore, this impact would remain significant and unavoidable (EIR at 5.2-21). This language essentially concedes that mitigation is feasible, but defers to future project level analysis. The duty to mitigate applies to the CEQA lead agency analyzing an impact, not future and ambiguous project reviews. See PRC Section 21002 which states that public agencies shall not approve projects if there is feasible mitigation that would reduce significant effects. The County has the opportunity and the duty to adopt mitigation at this stage, rather than during future tiered projects (see the requirement that feasible mitigation be adopted in PRC Section 21081(a)(1) and Section 21002 as cited above. These requirements could be imposed via policy and zoning code amendments and then would be applied to projects tiered from the General Plan EIR and any other discretionary approvals in the Primary Zone. In this scenario (use of policy Delta Protection Commission Comments: CONTRA COSTA COUNTY 2045 GENERAL PLAN AND CLIMATE ACTION PLAN DRAFT EIR 6 and zoning code as the means of mitigation) the County would be better situated to show it has satisfied Section 21002. This would also be the best means of satisfying the need for consistency with the Delta Protection Act under PRC Section 29763.5(h):  “The general plan, and any development approved or proposed that is consistent with the general plan, will not adversely impact agricultural lands or increase the potential for vandalism, trespass, or the creation of public or private nuisances on public or private land.” Comment 7: Impact 5.2-5: The proposed project could potentially result in other agricultural impacts not related to the above, such as diminishing available water quality and supply for agricultural uses. [Threshold AG-5] Requires Better Substantiation. This impact states that “future development under the proposed General Plan would increase water demands, as further described in Section 5.17, Utilities and Service Systems, which would diminish the available water supply for agricultural uses. Such development would occur throughout the county, which spreads the impact over a large geographic area” (EIR at 5.2-24). It is clear that the General Plan itself does not approve a “project” subject to a water supply analysis as required in Cal. Water Code Section 10912 (which requires strong proof of adequate water availability). Nonetheless more analysis is required. The mere assertion that the distribution of the development would occur “over a large geographic area” as support for its insignificance for water demand is not persuasive. The EIR projects a total of 23,200 housing units and 65,600 residents for the horizon-year project at page 3-25. As a rough yardstick, assuming a water usage of 48 gallons per person per day 1 this results in a total consumption assuming full buildout of 3,160 acre feet of water per year. While water consumption varies by agricultural land use type and is becoming more efficient over time, using 1.6 acre feet per acre per year as a rough metric 2 this is equivalent to water that could support roughly 1,975 acres of irrigated farmland. While not all of this water would be diverted from Delta Sources, the multiple demands on Delta water supplies and connected groundwater basins as well as the general water scarcity in the state suggest more facts are needed to substantiate this conclusion. This is especially important because the water consumed by residential buildout would not be available for other uses, including agricultural uses. Please provide stronger support for this assertion showing how the water consumption is accounted for at least, at a program level of analysis, by briefly summarizing relevant water supply planning for utilities serving unincorporated areas of the County. Please also provide a citation to and summary of the requirement that future developments must meet to satisfy the requirements of Cal. Water Code Section 10910 in the impact analysis. See Section 10910 for the 1 California Department of Water Resources. 2021. State Agencies Recommend Indoor Residential Water Use Standard to Legislature. Accessed April 3, 2024. 2 US Department of Agriculture. Per Acre Water Use in Irrigated Farmland Shows a Declining Trend. Accessed April 3. 2024. Delta Protection Commission Comments: CONTRA COSTA COUNTY 2045 GENERAL PLAN AND CLIMATE ACTION PLAN DRAFT EIR 7 general requirement and Section 10912 for the definition of “projects” subject to the requirement. This information will better support the conclusion of less than significant, and in turn support our ability to adopt your impact analysis for purposes of our own findings. Comment 8: Impact 5.4-1: Implementation of the proposed project would not have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special-status species in local or regional plan, policies, or regulations or by the CDFW or USFWS is Not Consistent With the Facts Provided in Other Impact Analysis Sections The biological resources chapter provides a summary of a robust set of policies designed to avoid impacts on natural resources. However, the significant and unavoidable impact for agricultural and conversion in Impact 5.2-1 is contradictory to this impact conclusion (5.4-1). Agricultural land also typically provides foraging habitat for raptors and dispersal habitat for other species. Table 5.4-3 indicates Swainson’s hawk and other raptors are present in Contra Costa County. Swainson’s hawk is a state-listed species. CDFW must make the determination for a “threatened” listing based on facts demonstrating the presence of one or more of the factors provided in California Code of Regulations Title 14, Section 670.1(i)(1)(A), including “present or threatened modification or destruction of [a species’] habitat.” The primary threat to Swainson’s hawk is loss of suitable foraging habitat, including suitable agricultural foraging habitat (CDFW 2016:3). The impact conclusion of less than significant for Impact 5.4-1 is not consistent with the impact conclusions of significant and unavoidable for Impact 5.2-1 because the magnitude of farmland loss will also reduce raptor foraging habitat which undermines the credibility the impact conclusion for Impact 5.4-1 greatly. This inconsistency could be resolved if the General Plan adopts an overlay zone or strong policy of avoiding agricultural and conversion in the Delta Primary Zone which is then adopted into the zoning code. Please provide an overlay zone and policy that includes language requiring protection of Delta farmland in the Primary Zone be enforceable via zoning code amendments. Please then update Impact 5.4-1 to show how this policy will further reduce habitat loss associated with the foraging and dispersal habitat functions of agricultural land. Comment 9: Please Provide Mapping of Pacific Flyway Habitat in the Delta Primary Zone to Support Our Review and Ensure Impacts Are Minimized by Policy of Mitigation Measure Please include in the EIR some mapping or analysis of Pacific Flyway habitat. We need this impact analysis for our consistency review process. PRC Section 29726 states: Delta Protection Commission Comments: CONTRA COSTA COUNTY 2045 GENERAL PLAN AND CLIMATE ACTION PLAN DRAFT EIR 8  “Pacific Flyway” means the identified migratory bird flight path, including feeding and nesting habitat, as described in the Central Valley Habitat Joint Venture component of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan (NAWMP-1986). PRC Section 29763.5 requires us to show that:  The general plan, and any development approved or proposed that is consistent with the general plan, will not result in the degradation or reduction of Pacific Flyway habitat. Comment 10: Impact 5.4-4: Implementation of the proposed project could interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species, or with established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites. [Threshold B-4] Could be Better Substantiated We support the overall policy approach of avoiding impacts on wildlife movement corridors in the General Plan EIR. We suggest that the efficacy of this approach could be improved. Buildout of the General Plan will inevitably require road improvements and/or construction. The General Plan could enhance protection of movement opportunities by requiring that road improvements and new road construction include wildlife crossing improvements targeted to the species likely to navigate habitat patches such roads bisect, if any. Mitigation Measure BIO-1 provides appropriate mitigation but falls short by not explicitly requiring crossing structures for road improvements where crossing structures are necessary. It says the County will “Encourage development plans that maximize wildlife movement,” which is not adequately specific. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) reports that “roads are a serious obstacle to maintaining population connectivity and a threat to the long-term survival of some regionally important wildlife populations” (FHWA 2011:1). This is an especially important issue in light of climate change which will change the location of suitable habitats and require opportunities for populations to shift accordingly (Costanza et al. 2020). The General Plan policies could prescribe that future projects requiring new roads or road improvements 1) identify focal species that may be subject to movement impacts and 2) include crossing improvements that are targeted to the focal relative focal species in terms of crossing design that is appropriate for the relevant focal species. This will better support our ability to rely on your impact conclusions for PRC Section 29763.5. The County has an opportunity to further refine protection of wildlife movement and save costs by avoiding unnecessary mitigation to ensure permeability if it undertakes a local countywide study of wildlife movement. A modeling approach combined with camera trapping data would be a good methodology. Existing studies for major infrastructure projects provide an example of how this can be achieved (Authority 2020: Appendix C, Wildlife Corridor Assessment). If the County conducts a wildlife movement study to determine where wildlife movement actually occurs wildlife crossing mitigation for roadways can be targeted to only those locations Delta Protection Commission Comments: CONTRA COSTA COUNTY 2045 GENERAL PLAN AND CLIMATE ACTION PLAN DRAFT EIR 9 that are relevant. This could be achieved by a County-led study or in concert with NGO and other agency partners. Existing entities like the Wildlife Conservation Board fund such studies. In addition, the study and or mitigation could potentially be offset by the sale of mitigation credits if the County incorporated the study and/or mitigation into a Regional Conservation Investment Strategy (RCIS, see Cal. Fish & Game Code Section 1850 et seq.). If the County, at a minimum, includes a policy or mitigation measure that requires assessment of wildlife movement impacts and incorporation of appropriate mitigation into roadway improvements and new roads, this would better support our finding of consistency and analysis of impacts. While the Delta Primary Zone is largely agricultural in nature it does some dispersal and foraging habitat for terrestrial species subject to roadkill and movement barriers associated with roads. Comment 11: Impact 5.5-1: Implementation of the proposed project could cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource pursuant to CEQA Guidelines, Section 15064.5 Needs Additional Mitigation The cultural resources policies in the draft General Plan are mostly a robust and sound approach to managing cultural resources impacts. We want to offer minor clarifications regarding the language in the chapter and suggestions regarding the impact conclusions and mitigation approach. The impact analysis for Impact 5.5-1 reads largely as if “historical resource” was synonymous with resources from the historic-era and specifically built environment resources. Under California law, a “historical resource:” is “. . .any object, building, structure, site, area, place, record, or manuscript which is historically or archaeologically significant, or is significant in the architectural, engineering, scientific, economic, agricultural, educational, social, political, military, or cultural annals of California” (Cal. Public Resources Code Section 5020.1). The eligibility criteria for the California Register of Historical Resources includes but is not limited to resources that have information important in prehistory (i.e. archaeological resources, Cal. Public Resources Code Section 5024.1(c)(4)). The impact should be revised so it is more clear that archaeological resources are part of the scope of resources considered under the impact analysis. This gap in the language is important because archaeological resources, by nature, are harder to identify before construction, and more susceptible to inadvertent damage than built environment resources. Archaeological resources can be buried under layers of sterile soil, obscured by hardscape, or simply missed in inventory efforts due to scant surface manifestations. In addition, the overall significance conclusion of significant and unavoidable for this impact needs to be supported by a complete palette of mitigation. Significant and unavoidable impacts must make the required CEQA findings in PRC Section 21081 as stated above. We support the existing policies and actions provided below:  Policy COS-P10.5: When a project involves a resource that is listed in the County’s Historic Resources Inventory, or as otherwise necessitated by the CEQA process, require Delta Protection Commission Comments: CONTRA COSTA COUNTY 2045 GENERAL PLAN AND CLIMATE ACTION PLAN DRAFT EIR 10 applicants to engage a qualified consultant to prepare an evaluation of potential and previously identified archaeological, cultural, and historic resources that may be present on the project site.  Action COS-A10.1: Beginning in 2024, then every five years thereafter, review and update the County’s Historic Resources Inventory and Archaeological Sensitivity Map in consultation with culturally affiliated tribes to ensure these remain useful tools for evaluating potential cultural resources impacts and guiding preservation efforts. As part of the 2024 update to the Historic Resources Inventory, create a map of the listed historic resources, and update the map upon each update to the Historic Resources Inventory. Ensure tribal cultural resources identified through these updates remain confidential. These policies may implicitly rely upon landscape level sensitivity analysis and geomorphological data to identify areas of buried site archaeological sensitivity but if they do it is not clear in the text. This should either be made clear, or the policy and action should be updated to include the best-available methodologies for assessing for archaeological sensitivity, including means for identifying buried sites that cannot be identified based on surface manifestations. See Meyer and Rosenthal (2007) for an example. This impact would also be reinforced if the County provided more of a summary of the results of AB 52 consultation regarding tribal cultural resources. Comment 12: Impact 5.5-2: and Impact 5.5-3 Make Impact Conclusions That Are Inconsistent with The Facts and Conclusion in Impact 5.5-1 The EIR states “Even with implementation of the proposed General Plan goals, policies, and actions, the regulations would not fully reduce potential impacts on historic resources at the programmatic level. Therefore, this is considered a potentially significant impact” (EIR at 5.5- 13). The EIR then concludes that even with the general plan policies the impact is significant and unavoidable. The impact analysis in 5.5-1 applies to both built environment resources and archaeological resources. The impact conclusions after mitigation, for Impacts 5.5-2 (archaeological resources) and 5.5-3 (buried human remains) are less than significant. These conclusions are inconsistent with Impact 5.5-1 which is significant and unavoidable. Buried archaeological resources and human remains, by their nature, are harder to identify and mitigate for or avoid entirely than built environment resources. Construction can easily disturb and damage such resources before they are noticed given the scale of earthmoving equipment and the fragility of the resources. Major infrastructure projects can inadvertently damage archaeological sites and buried human remains despite a complete and robust environmental review process, including pre-construction testing. Levee repairs along the Feather River, for example discovered 230 plus burials associated with extensive cultural deposits, only in the construction phase (CapRadio 2015). Additional mitigation that adds geomorphology based archaeological sensitivity analysis as a precondition for approval of projects in areas of high sensitivity would better justify the impact conclusions for 5.5-2 and 5.5-3. This is especially important given the sensitivity of the Delta Primary Zone for archaeological resources. Delta Protection Commission Comments: CONTRA COSTA COUNTY 2045 GENERAL PLAN AND CLIMATE ACTION PLAN DRAFT EIR 11 Comment 13: Impact 5.11-2: Project implementation would not conflict with applicable plans adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect Cannot be Supported by the Existing Text or General Plan Policies. The agricultural land conversion identified in the EIR as a significant and unavoidable impact occurs largely in the Delta Primary Zone. The impact and setting do not meaningfully summarize how consistency with the Delta Protection Act and Land Use and Resource Management Plan will be achieved. This gap hinders the credibility of the impact conclusion for this impact (less than significant). We believe it cannot be supported based on the current impact conclusions and policy text. Comment 14: Text Summarizing the Land Use and Resource Management Plan Must be Updated The EIR provides a cursory statement regarding the Land Use and Resource Management Plan on page 5.11-12. It fails to mention the standards the County must meet for approval of their General Plan under PRC Section 29763.5. It also provides no meaningful summary of the content of the Land Use and Resource Management Plan. Please revise this text appropriately. References Cited California Department of Fish & Wildlife (CDFW:3). Five Year Status Review for Swainson’s Hawk (Buteo swainsoni). 2016. Sacramento, California. Capitol City Radio (CapRadio). 2015. Indian Burial Sites Put Flood Control Agency Between Conflicting State And Federal Orders. Available: https://www.capradio.org/articles/2015/04/07/indian-burial-sites-put-flood-control-agency- between-conflicting-state-and-federal-orders/ California High-Speed Rail Authority (Authority). 2020. San Jose to Merced Project Section: Biological and Aquatic Resources Technical Report, Appendix C, Wildlife Corridor Assessment. April 2020. Sacramento, CA. Costanza, Jennifer K. and James Watling, Ron Sutherland Curtis Belyea, Bistra Dilkina, Heather Cayton, David Bucklin, Stephanie S. Romañach, Nick M. Haddad, 2020. Preserving Connectivity Under Climate and Land-use Change: No One-Size-Fits All Approach for Focal Species in Similar habitats. Biological Conservation Volume 248. Delta Protection Commission (DPC). 2010. Land Use and Resources Management Plan for the Primary Zone of the Delta. West Sacramento, California. Delta Protection Commission. Economic Sustainability Plan for the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. 2012. West Sacramento, California. Delta Protection Commission Comments: CONTRA COSTA COUNTY 2045 GENERAL PLAN AND CLIMATE ACTION PLAN DRAFT EIR 12 Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). 2011. Wildlife Crossing Structure Handbook. Design and Evaluation in North America. Lakewood Colorado Meyer, J. and J. Rosenthal. 2007. Geoarchaeological Overview of the Nine Bay Area Counties in Caltrans District 4. Far Western Anthropological Research Group, Davis, California. Stephen Kostka and Michael Zischke. 2023. Practice Under the California Environmental Quality Act. Continuing Education of the Bar. April 8, 2024 SENT VIA EMAIL TO: email@envisioncontracosta2040.org Will Nelson Principal Planner Department of Conservation and Development Contra Costa County 30 Muir Road Martinez, CA 94553 will.nelson@dcd.cccounty.us Re: Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan Update and Climate Action Plan Draft Environmental Impact Report (aka Envision Contra Costa) (State Clearinghouse Number 2023090467) Dear Mr. Nelson: Thank you for the opportunity to review the proposed 2045 Contra Costa County General Plan and Climate Action Plan Draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR). Contra Costa Water District (CCWD) submits the following comments, which are intended to initiate a constructive program between Contra Costa County (County) and CCWD to facilitate adequate storm drain system planning and maintenance as it pertains to water facilities either owned or operated and maintained by CCWD within the jurisdiction of the County, and to ensure adequate and safe drinking water to new developments. Background CCWD operates and maintains United States Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation) owned water conveyance facilities and property, a significant portion of which traverses central and eastern Contra Costa County and terminates at the Martinez Reservoir. The 48-mile Contra Costa Canal (Canal), which was constructed in the 1940s, is CCWD’s backbone facility that conveys water from the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta to eastern and central Contra Costa County. It originates at Rock Slough in the City of Oakley, passing through several cities and communities before terminating at the Martinez Reservoir in the City of Martinez. The water supply serves 550,000 people in the central and northeastern county area, including municipalities, industrial customers, businesses, and residences. The majority of the Canal is an open concrete-lined channel and is within both incorporated and unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County. CCWD Comments – Envision Contra Costa April 8, 2024 Page 2 CCWD also operates its Multipurpose Pipeline (MPP), a backbone treated water conveyance facility built in 2002, within the Canal right of way (ROW). The MPP is a pressurized underground 42-inch diameter welded steel pipeline that generally runs parallel to the open Canal from the Randall-Bold Water Treatment Plant in the City of Oakley to CCWD’s Treated Water Service Area in the City of Concord. A significant portion of the MPP also traverses unincorporated Contra Costa County. Overview of Concerns The Canal was constructed in the 1940s, prior to the extensive urban development that has taken place within the County since that time. This includes culverts and drainage areas that were originally constructed to convey flows occurring at the time across the Canal, but generally not designed to support additional runoff from future urban development. Nevertheless, these culverts and pathways have become hydraulically connected to urban development and are depended upon to properly drain these developments and prevent flooding. In addition to these smaller culverts and pathways, there are larger creeks and drainages within the County boundaries, also modified by urban development, that must pass through Canal ROW and MPP. CCWD is concerned that the drainage features within the Canal ROW, designed prior to these developments, do not have sufficient capacity for existing, let alone future, storm water runoff, and that more comprehensive analysis needs to be conducted by the County and developers to ensure that there are adequate storm water facilities to handle maximum flows that could occur during large storm events. Additional planned development has the potential to increase the risk of cumulative erosion or flooding that could impact the reliability and security of the regional water supply and integrity of CCWD’s backbone Canal and MPP facilities. Due to existing issues with the stormwater drainage system, development under the County’s General Plan Update may cause potentially significant flooding or erosion impacts that must be mitigated through improvements to Canal facilities or maintenance agreements for existing facilities. Thus, CCWD offers comments to address our concerns and urges the County to consider these issues, consistent with its obligations under the General Plan law and CEQA. CCWD is also concerned about approval of developments in County unincorporated areas that do not have sufficient water supply or that encourage small / private groundwater systems in areas with known water quality impacts and health concerns. The County should encourage connections with permitted surface water supplies from larger established water agencies like CCWD. CCWD’s Comments on Draft 2045 General Plan Update and Draft Climate Action Plan / EIR CCWD Comment 1: CCWD proposes the following policies be included in the Health and Safety Element of the 2045 General Plan: CCWD Comments – Envision Contra Costa April 8, 2024 Page 3 • HS-P5.9 - Require an encroachment permit from Contra Costa Water District (CCWD) for any new storm drain facility or anticipated runoff that will add load to existing facilities crossing or encroaching onto Contra Costa Canal rights-of-way. • HS-P5.10 - Protect water quality by reducing non-point sources of pollution and the dumping of debris in and near creeks, storm drains, and the Canal. All drainage from new development should be either directed to an appropriate storm drain system that avoids CCWD facilities and Canal ROW, or obtain an encroachment permit from CCWD. Please note that, as a condition of an encroachment permit, CCWD may seek maintenance agreements with the County for any drainage facilities located within the Canal right of way that support and benefit urban drainage within the County unincorporated areas. Also, depending on the circumstances, CCWD may request that any new development that could impact the Canal ROW, CCWD facilities, or drainage facilities conduct a hydrologic study to demontrate sufficient capacity and erosion protection of downstream facilities to accommodate the development, and any improvements needed to protect the Canal be funded by the County or the developer. CCWD Comment 2: The 2045 General Plan should fully reflect the Water Service Implementation Measures that were included in Chapter 7 - Public Facilities/Services Element of the existing County General Plan (2005- 2020). These measures should be carried forward to Goal PFS-4 in the 2045 General Plan because they provide needed detail to ensure a reliable water supply and protect public health. 7-i. Conditionally approve all tentative subdivision maps and other preliminary development plans on verification of adequate water supply for the project. Such condition shall be satisfied by verification, based on substantial evidence in the record, that capacity within the system to serve the specific development project exists or comparable demonstration of adequate wastewater treatment capacity. Where no tentative map or preliminary plan is required prior to development, approve no map or development permit without this standard being satisfied. 7-j. Identify, map, and monitor those areas where high levels of nitrates, arsenic, and/or manganese have been detected in groundwater supplies. Development should seek surface water supplies if any of these contaminants are known to be in groundwater supplies. 7-k. Discourage subdivisions or other permits which would allow the construction of rural residential units served by well water in areas of high nitrate concentrations, consistent with existing Health Department policy. 7-l. Discourage subdivisions or other permits which would allow the construction of rural residential units served by well water on lots of less than one acre, consistent with existing Health Department policy. CCWD Comments – Envision Contra Costa April 8, 2024 Page 4 CCWD Comment 3: The Health and Safety policies proposed in Comment 1, as well as the Public Facilities and Services policies proposed in Comment 2, should also be included and addressed within the Climate Action Plan Draft EIR. CCWD Comment 4: CCWD suggests revisions to the description of CCWD included on Page 8-8 of the 2045 General Plan. Currently, the description reads: - CCWD provides treated water to approximately 500,000 customers in the urbanized parts of central Contra Costa County that are not serviced by EBMUD, as well as some eastern parts of the county. CCWD’s water is sourced from the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta via the 48-mile Contra Costa Canal. CCWD also stores water at Los Vaqueros Reservoir in East County, southwest of Byron. CCWD recommends revising the first sentence as follows: - CCWD provides treated and untreated water to approximately 550,000 people in central and northeastern Contra Costa County, including municipalities, industrial customers, businesses, and residences. CCWD’s water is sourced from the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta via the 48-mile Contra Costa Canal. CCWD also stores water at Los Vaqueros Reservoir in East County, southwest of Byron. Los Vaqueros Water once released is delivered via the Contra Costa Canal. Conclusion Thank you for considering CCWD’s comments on the Draft 2045 General Plan and Climate Action Plan Draft EIR. We look forward to working with the County to find mutually beneficial solutions to protect the integrity of CCWD ’s water conveyance facilities, and to ensure adequate supplies to new developments while protecting public health. Should you have any questions about the comments raised in this letter, please do not hesitate to contact me at (925) 688-8312. Sincerely, Mark Quady Planning Manager cc: Jeff Quimby – Assistant General Manager, Planning and Administration Kimberly Lin – Director of Planning Mark Seedall – Principal Environmental Planner 560 Mission Street, Suite 1900 | San Francisco, CA 94105 | T 415.743.6900 | F 415.743.6910 Holland & Knight LLP | www.hklaw.com Letitia D. Moore +1 415-743-6948 Letitia.Moore@hklaw.com April 8, 2024 Sent via email Supervisor Federal D. Glover Supervisor Ken Carlson Supervisor Diane Burgis Supervisor Candace Andersen Supervisor John M. Gioia Chair Kevin Van Buskirk Director John Kopchik Re: Comment Period Extension Request – Proposed Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan 2024 Update, Draft 2045 General Plan, and General Plan and Climate Action Plan Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR) Dear Supervisors, Commissioner and Director: The Committee for Industrial Safety (CIS) has engaged Holland & Knight LLP to advise the CIS in evaluating the Contra Costa County updated 2024 Climate Action Plan (CAP). The CIS is a nonprofit association, its purpose is to educate the public and advocate on matters of refinery safety and related regulatory policy and environmental protection. Contra Costa County is home to workers, communities and facilities associated with CIS and served by CIS educational and advocacy efforts. The climate related policies and measures to be implemented through the CAP will have significant impact on those workers, communities and facilities, on their public, environmental and economic health and vitality. We respectfully request that you extend, for an additional 60 days, the comment period for the 2024 CAP, Draft 2045 General Plan, and the General Plan and Climate Action Plan Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR). The County has stated that the 2024 CAP is intended to serve as a companion to the “. . . 2045 General Plan and to mitigated GHG emissions that result from implementation of the General Plan.” CAP, p. ES-1. As such, the 2024 CAP is integral to implementation of the 2045 General Plan and is a fully enforceable commitment as a mitigation measure under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Implementation of the CAP is 2 also a General Plan requirement (COS-P14.1). The CAP and CAP consistency with the Draft General Plan, the Draft General Plan, and the General Plan and Climate Action Plan DEIR, therefore, warrant thorough review, discussion and comment. Environmental justice and economic development are important to our Contra Costa communities, and important for successful implementation of the Draft 2045 General Plan and the Draft 2024 CAP. The 2045 General Plan aspires to ensure that Focused and ambitious actions are taken to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve community resilience, and adapt equitably to a changing climate. Furthermore, to address environmental justice and historical inequality of public and environmental health impacts, the Draft 2045 General Plan identifies that It is a priority of the County to protect Impacted Communities from additional harm and progressively improve the quality of life and health outcomes of residents. GP, at p. 3-3. Additional time is required to review and identify mechanisms to ensure that environmental justice and economic development principles and practices are fully integrated into implementation of the CAP and the General Plan and analyzed in the DEIR. For example, the Draft General Plan Environmental Justice and Economic Development Policies promote “renewable and sustainable industries that provide living-wage jobs” (Policy SC-P1.1) and “streamline . . . permitting process for new development, redevelopment, and rehabilitation that promotes community objectives in Impacted Communities” (Policy SC-P1.2) The Draft General Plan sets as a policy action, “paying special attention to developing new opportunities for Impacted Communities to realize economic, health, educational, and other benefits.” Action SC- A1.1. Although the County says that the CAP is designed to help meet environmental justice objectives (p. ES-2), the true measure is with the implementation strategies. Stakeholders and commenters need additional time to review and evaluate whether the CAP includes implementation strategies that will promote job and revenue opportunities as well as climate change goals in environmental justice communities. The General Plan and CAP set clear priorities for waste and energy reduction, clean energy production and use, resilient communities, and climate equity; further review is needed to evaluate how the General Plan and CAP address and ensure economic equity and the protection of civil rights more broadly in environmental justice communities. Additionally, consistency between the General Plan and the CAP, and internal consistency within the General Plan, are important elements to a legally adequate General Plan. General Plans that are internally inconsistent are illegal, and courts have and may continue to impose the draconian remedy of halting all new development pending adoption of an internally consistent and legally adequate General Plan. See, e.g., Save El Toro Assn. v. Days (1977) 74 Cal.Appl. 3d 64. Finally, County activities include existing environmental justice and economic development initiatives designed to facilitate continuing dialogue with environmental justice communities, workers, and businesses, and pursue strategies to create thousands of new living-wage jobs, 3 emphasize local workforce hiring, and protect and build the regional tax base. Current environmental justice and economic development activities identified by the Contra Costa County Department of Conservation & Development in November 2023 include, • Northern Waterfront Economic Development Initiative, • Just Transition Economic Revitalization Plan (JTERP), • Bay Area Good Jobs Partnership for Equity (Community Economic Resilience Fund), • Contra Costa Refinery Transition Partnership, and • Refinery Community Benefits Agreements. While the 2023 Interim CAP Progress Report identifies some implementation activity with the JTERP and the County’s support of AB 844, it does not reflect any significant progress on addressing environmental justice and economic development. Reversing historic injustices, while retaining and attracting businesses, jobs, workers and industry, must be an integral part of implementation of the General Plan and the County’s strategic climate action plans. To that end it is of utmost importance that the Draft 2045 General Plan and the updated 2024 CAP consistently integrate environmental justice and economic development practices and priorities in a manner that activates those General Plan priorities. We request that you extend the comment period for the Draft 2045 General Plan, updated 2024 CAP, and DEIR, to allow for additional input of key stakeholders, discussions with County staff, and priority focus on the integration of equity and economic development in the proposed General Plan and CAP. Sincerely yours, HOLLAND & KNIGHT LLP Letitia D. Moore cc: William R. Nelson, Principal Planner 4 Addressees: Supervisor Federal D. Glover - Federal.glover@bos.cccounty.com Supervisor Ken Carlson - Supervisorcarlson@bos.cccounty.us Supervisor Diane Burgis - diane.burgis@bos.cccounty.us Supervisor Candace Andersen - supervisorandersen@bos.cccounty.us Supervisor John M. Gioia - John.Gioia@bos.cccounty.us Chair Kevin Van Buskirk - vanbuskirk1691@gmail.com Director John Kopchik - john.kopchik@dcd.cccounty.us Cc: William R. Nelson - Will.Nelson@dcd.cccounty.us “Provide a safe and reliable transportation network that serves all people and respects the environment” DISTRICT 4 OFFICE OF REGIONAL AND COMMUNITY PLANNING P.O. BOX 23660, MS–10D | OAKLAND, CA 94623-0660 www.dot.ca.gov April 8, 2024 SCH #: 2023090467 GTS #: 04-CC-2023-00750 GTS ID: 30908 Co/Rt/Pm: CC/VAR/VAR Will Nelson, Principal Planner Contra Costa County 30 Muir Road Martinez, CA 94553 Re: Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan and Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan 2024 ─ Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR) Dear Will Nelson: Thank you for including the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) in the environmental review process for this project. The Local Development Review (LDR) branch reviews land use projects and plans to ensure consistency with our mission and state planning priorities. The following comments are based on our review of the February 2024 DEIR. Please note this correspondence does not indicate an official position by Caltrans on this project and is for informational purpose only. Project Understanding The purpose of the General Plan update is to create a long-term vision for the County’s physical development, to address challenges such as climate change and housing insecurity, and to enhance quality of life for Contra Costa County residents. The project also includes an update to the County’s 2015 Climate Action Plan (CAP). The CAP is a separate document that supports the General Plan by establishing goals and strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in unincorporated Contra Costa County, consistent with State targets. Travel Demand Analysis The project’s vehicle miles traveled (VMT) analysis and significance determination are undertaken in a manner consistent with the County’s adopted VMT policy. Per the DEIR, this project is found to have significant and unavoidable VMT impact. Caltrans commends the Lead Agency for developing a Transportation Demand Management Will Nelson, Principal Planner April 8, 2024 Page 2 “Provide a safe and reliable transportation network that serves all people and respects the environment” (TDM) program for development projects with significant VMT impacts. We encourage the Lead Agency to continue exploring potential VMT options and document the TDM program with annual monitoring reports to demonstrate effectiveness. Sea Level Rise In the 2020 Caltrans District 4 Adaptation Priorities Report (link), Interstate (I)-680 within the project location is identified as a high-priority Caltrans asset vulnerable to sea level rise, storm surge, and climate change impacts, including increased precipitation. Caltrans would like to be included in discussions, to stay informed as Caltrans is interested in engaging in multi-agency collaboration early and often, to find multi- benefit solutions that protect vulnerable shorelines, communities, infrastructure, and the environment. Please contact Vishal Ream-Rao, Caltrans Bay Area Climate Change Planning Coordinator, with any questions at d4_climateresilience@dot.ca.gov. Equity We will achieve equity when everyone has access to what they need to thrive no matter their race, socioeconomic status, identity, where they live, or how they travel. Caltrans is committed to advancing equity and livability in all communities. We look forward to collaborating with Contra Costa County to prioritize projects that are equitable and provide meaningful benefits to historically underserved communities. Thank you again for including Caltrans in the environmental review process. Should you have any questions regarding this letter, please contact Llisel Ayon, Associate Transportation Planner, via LDR-D4@dot.ca.gov. For future early coordination opportunities or project referrals, please contact LDR-D4@dot.ca.gov. Sincerely, YUNSHENG LUO Branch Chief, Local Development Review Office of Regional and Community Planning c: State Clearinghouse 1 From:Email Request Sent:Monday, April 8, 2024 5:03 PM To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: continuation of harm of oil drilling ________________________________________ From: Laura Rosenberger Haider <lauragreen.rosenberger@gmail.com> Sent: Monday, April 8, 2024 5:02:36 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request Subject: continuation of harm of oil drilling [You don't often get email from lauragreen.rosenberger@gmail.com. Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ] A 2021 Stanford study found increased ozone up to 2.5 miles from oil wells. Ozone irritates respiratory system and is linked to lung developmental problems. 1 From:Email Request Sent:Monday, April 8, 2024 4:57 PM To:advanceplanning@dcd.cccounty.us; Tanya Sundberg; Lauren Willey Subject:FW: Thanks for this climate ordinance calling for a ban on oil drilling ________________________________________ From: Laura Rosenberger Haider <lauragreen.rosenberger@gmail.com> Sent: Monday, April 8, 2024 4:56:57 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: Email Request Subject: Thanks for this climate ordinance calling for a ban on oil drilling [You don't often get email from lauragreen.rosenberger@gmail.com. Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ] It's better to put a moratorium in place to prevent any more oil drilling permit approvals than to rely on failed carbon capture projects like the following: The Elk Hills blue hydrogen plant emits 5% of the carbon it produces(Ref: Gordon Nipp) and maybe more if pipeline accidents occur. This project relies on unproven carbon capture in one of the oldest natural gas fields with old wells that have a high probability of leakage. The carbon storage's total air emissions would exceed SJVAPCD's limits for NOx, PM 10 & PM 2.5 and result in nonattainment of the federal PM 2.5 standard. Those old wells had VOC leakage in the past. VOCs came up from water wells near Elk Hills/ N. Cole Levy Oilfields (see 2018 study by John Warden, Ph.D. presented at a Water Board Meeting). Since VOCs escaped through water wells in this oilfield, I suspect CO2 would escape from the storage likewise, increasing its CO2 emissions, There were 2 leaks from other carbon pipelines one in LA and one in Mississippi that caused people to suffocate. CO2 gas is invisible. Its pipeline is planned to be placed within 3 mile of an elementary school. Previous carbon capture projects failed to meet their goals. If the Elk Hill's Oilfield, continues to operate due to the demand created by the blue hydrogen plant, then more wastewater would have to be injected into the ground and the risk of earthquakes would increase and the risk of leakage from the carbon storage would increase. Where there is much wastewater injection, scientists found mixing of the aquifer which brought up saline water and worsened water quality. Injecting high pressure CO2 deep underground would have the same effect. Already there were pollutants often brought up by oil drilling in the tap water from the West Kern Water District based in Taft between 2014 and 2019 including Uranium 27 times higher than considered safe by Environmental Working Group, combined radium 2.1 X EWG's health guidelines, & Thallium 3.8X EWG's health guidelines. From 2017 - 2019, hexavalent chromium was 37 X and arsenic was 367 X. EWG's health guidelines. Also there were many halogenated compounds in the tap water in amounts higher than EWG's health guidelines. (from EWG.org, Tap Water Database by Chris Campbell) A fracking wastewater storage in sandstone near the town of Plum in PA near Pittsburgh leaked and contaminated residents water wells. Therefore how could they expect to keep high pressure CO2 in the ground long enough to meet our long term carbon emission goals with the risks of earthquakes, terrorism and wars. Oil companies in 5 states used chemicals which break down into PFAs 2 One chemical emitted by oil wells in Lost Hills, isoprene, was found by OEHHA to have a human inhallation cancer risk and doubled the rate of 2 or more cancers in rodents. A recent University of Pittsburgh study found a significantly increased rate of lymphoma in children born within a kilometer of oil wells. The amount of radium in fracking wastewater in 2015 found by EWG.org which on average was 1000 X the public health goal could wash into peoples yards & farms in the storms and flood from climate change change. 560 Mission Street, Suite 1900 | San Francisco, CA 94105 | T 415.743.6900 | F 415.743.6910 Holland & Knight LLP | www.hklaw.com Letitia D. Moore +1 415-743-6948 Letitia.Moore@hklaw.com April 22, 2024 Sent via email Supervisor Federal D. Glover Supervisor Ken Carlson Supervisor Diane Burgis Supervisor Candace Andersen Supervisor John M. Gioia Chair Kevin Van Buskirk Director John Kopchik Re: Comments on Contra Costa County 2024 Climate Action Plan, 2045 General Plan, and General Plan and Draft Environmental Impact Report Dear Supervisors, Commissioner and Director: On behalf of the Committee for Industrial Safety (CIS), we respectfully submit this comment letter to ensure that Contra Costa County adopts an internally consistent and legally sufficient Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan and updated 2024 Climate Action Plan (CAP), as required by California Government Code Section 65300.5, and fully complies with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), Public Resources Code § 21000 et seq., and the CEQA Guidelines, California Code of Regulations, title 14, § 15000 et seq. (CEQA Guidelines) with respect to the County’s environmental impact report (EIR) for the 2045 General Plan and 2024 CAP. CIS is a nonprofit association, its purpose is to educate the public and advocate on matters of refinery safety and related regulatory policy and environmental protection. Contra Costa County is home to workers, communities and facilities associated with CIS and served by CIS educational and advocacy efforts. Oil and gas manufacturing companies are the largest private employers and one of the highest paying industries in Contra Costa County. Contra Costa Conservation & Development Largest Employers (accessed April 20, 2024); California Employment Development Department Major 2 Employers in Contra Costa County (accessed April 20, 2024); Data USA Contra Costa County (accessed April 20, 2024). The 2045 General Plan and 2024 CAP propose to shut down the largest private employers, eliminating those higher paying jobs, and the EIR neither identifies nor analyzes any potential impacts from this substantial change in the workforce, tax base, manufacturing, and transport of goods in the County. Implementation of the climate action policies and measures in the 2045 General Plan and 2024 CAP will have significant impacts on workers, communities and multiple industries in Contra Costa County, on their public, environmental and economic health and vitality, but no attempt is made in the EIR to describe, evaluate or address such impacts. Many of those impacts will fall on communities already disadvantaged by the uneven distribution of economic, educational and social resources. General Plan and CAP Not Consistent The 2024 CAP is integral to administration of the 2045 General Plan, its implementation is a General Plan requirement, and the 2024 CAP is fully enforceable under CEQA. Consistency between the General Plan and the CAP, and internal consistency within the General Plan, are therefore important elements to a legally adequate General Plan. General Plans that are internally inconsistent are illegal, and courts have and may continue to impose the draconian remedy of halting all new development pending adoption of an internally consistent and legally adequate General Plan. See, e.g., Save El Toro Assn. v. Days (1977) 74 Cal.Appl. 3d 64. Failure to address inconsistencies between the 2045 General Plan and the 2024 CAP invites challenges, puts future development at risk, and unnecessarily wastes public resources. Given the cultural, ethnic, social and economic diversity of the communities in Contra Costa County, promotion of environmental justice and economic development are significant policy imperatives for Contra Costa County residents and businesses. The 2045 General Plan consistently prioritizes efforts to address environmental justice issues in General Plan goals, policies and actions. Within the Stronger Communities Element of the General Plan, the Environmental Justice section states that the County’s intent is to reduce the disadvantages and burdens on these overburdened and vulnerable communities. The 2024 CAP however does not align with the General Plan environmental justice priorities and fails to implement key General Plan environmental justice priorities. The 2045 General Plan and 2024 CAP identify communities in and around North Richmond, San Pablo, Montara Bay/Rollingwood, Rodeo, Crockett, Vine Hill/Mountain View, Pacheco, Clyde, and Bay Point as “Impacted Communities.” General Plan, Figure SC-1. As you know, Impacted Communities are “unincorporated communities in Contra Costa County that are disproportionately burdened by pollution or face disproportionate social or health vulnerabilities.” General Plan, p. 3-3. These communities are burdened by proximity to heavy industry, a range of pollution sources, and a sustained lack of public and private infrastructure and community services investments. Residents of these communities also benefit from “the jobs, tax benefits, and local energy production” provided by the “high concentration of refineries and other large industrial facilities” in their communities. However, these same communities, residents and businesses, may also be particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Accordingly, the General Plan sets “a priority of the County to protect Impacted Communities 3 from additional harm and progressively improve the quality of life and health outcomes of residents.” General Plan, p. 3-3. The 2045 General Plan, in support of the equitable distribution of social and economic resources to reduce disproportionate burdens on Impacted Communities, calls for • Partnerships between residents, workers, business/industry, environmental and environmental justice advocates, institutions and governments to support industry transitions that will provide living-wage jobs; • Streamline permitting process for new development and redevelopment that promotes community objectives in Impacted Communities; • Development of neighborhood-serving retail and service uses, cultural and community events, and public infrastructure; and • Negotiation of community benefit agreements (CBAs) to address the expressed needs of Impacted Communities. See, General Plan Goal SC-1 and Policies SC-P1.1, SC-P1.2, SC-P1.3, SC-P1.4, SC-P1.5, and SC-P1.6. The 2045 General Plan emphasizes enhanced opportunities for high-quality jobs and workforce development in Impacted Communities. The General Plan specifically sets as a goal “Access to and expansion of high-quality job training, job opportunities, and economic resources so that residents in Impacted Communities can acquire safe jobs, earn a living wage to support their families, and build shared prosperity.” Goal SC-8. For Impacted Communities, the General plan similarly emphasizes reducing barriers to and improving healthcare, increasing quality affordable housing, and providing enhanced fresh, healthy and affordable food opportunities, in those communities. With respect to climate change impacts, the 2045 General Plan specifically prioritizes protection of Impacted Communities. General Plan Policy HS-P4.4: Prioritize efforts to protect Impacted Communities and other vulnerable populations from the impacts of climate change, including through improving community capacity and meaningfully involving community members in decision making. In contrast to the 2045 General Plan, the 2024 CAP Strategy and Implementation Actions do not prioritize efforts to protect Impacted Communities. For example, although a “high concentration of refineries and other large industrial facilities” are located in Impacted Communities, unlike the General Plan, the 2024 CAP Strategy CE-5 does not prioritize access to high-quality jobs, economic resources, and a living wage for Impacted Communities. The proposed climate action strategies advocate phasing out the largest private employers and associated higher paying jobs and tax benefits, located primarily in Impacted Communities, but does not correspondingly prioritize economic development and job creation in those Impacted Communities. The 2024 CAP does not promote • Industry transitions that will provide living-wage jobs in Impacted Communities; 4 • Streamline permitting process for new development and redevelopment that promotes community objectives in Impacted Communities; • Development of land uses and public infrastructure in Impacted Communities; or • Community benefit agreements (CBAs) to address the needs of Impacted Communities. The 2024 CAP does little or nothing to further the County’s environmental justice objectives, particularly in the context of economic sustainability, wealth creation or workforce development. Additional inconsistencies are visible between strategies to (i) “Provide access to affordable, clean, safe, and healthy housing and jobs,” [CAP Strategy CE-1] (ii) implementing actions to phase out existing industries that provide high-paying jobs and tax benefits (employers characterized as “heavily polluting and extractive industries”) [CAP Strategy CE-5 Action], and (iii) “measures to achieve near-zero emissions for large commercial or industrial projects” [General Plan Policy HS-P1.8]. Policies and implementing actions in the 2045 General Plan Health and Safety element identify regulatory agencies and initiatives working to control and reduce emissions and exposures from heavy industrial facilities in Impacted Communities. General Plan and CAP goals and policies also identify job security as a priority for the County. Conversely, the 2024 CAP also seeks to phase out those same highly regulated and controlled, jobs producing industrial facilities. We note that the County has otherwise promoted environmental justice and economic development initiatives designed to facilitate continuing dialogue with environmental justice communities, workers, and businesses, and advance strategies to create thousands of new living- wage jobs, emphasize local workforce hiring, and protect and build the regional tax base. Such environmental justice and economic development activities identified by the Contra Costa County Department of Conservation & Development in November 2023 included, • Northern Waterfront Economic Development Initiative, • Just Transition Economic Revitalization Plan (JTERP), • Bay Area Good Jobs Partnership for Equity (Community Economic Resilience Fund), • Contra Costa Refinery Transition Partnership, and • Refinery Community Benefits Agreements. While the 2023 Interim CAP Progress Report identifies some implementation activity with the JTERP and the County’s support of AB 844, it does not reflect any significant progress on addressing environmental justice and economic development. Reversing historic injustices, while retaining and attracting businesses, jobs, workers and industry, must be an integral part of implementation of the General Plan and the County’s strategic climate action plans. Nevertheless, the 2045 General Plan, 2024 CAP and EIR also fail to address the adverse impact on past and current efforts in the County directed at environmental justice issues and economic development in Impacted Communities. Finally, our review of the 2024 CAP indicates that the climate action strategies are also inconsistent with the County’s Housing Element, which prioritizes preserving existing affordable housing and increasing the supply of housing, particularly affordable housing, in the County. 5 Climate change strategies that reduce tax benefits from jobs producing industry and reduce opportunities for high-paying jobs, as well as increase costs on existing and new housing, are inconsistent with the goals of the Housing Element. Increasing and improving housing opportunities requires stable incomes, a stable tax base, and reliable economic and jobs growth. The County must revise the 2024 CAP to better align with the 2045 General Plan environmental justice and housing goals. EIR Fails to Comply with CEQA The Project addressed by the Draft EIR is the implementation of the proposed 2045 General Plan and 2024 CAP. The EIR is “the heart of CEQA.” and provides an “environmental ‘alarm bell’ whose purpose it is to alert the public and its responsible officials to environmental changes before they have reached ecological points of no return.” Laurel Heights Improvement Ass’n v. Regents of the Univ. of Cal. (1998) 47 Cal.3rd 376, 392 (Laurel Heights). An EIR is intended to demonstrate that the lead agency “has, in fact, analyzed and considered the ecological implications of its action.” Id. The EIR, however fails to fully and accurately inform the public and decision makers of environmental consequences associated with the CAP and the General Plan, and ways to mitigate those consequences, and thus fails to achieve CEQA’s fundamental purpose. To comply with the law, the County must revise the EIR to cure the CEQA errors identified below, and it must recirculate the revised draft so that the public and decision makers have a fair opportunity to assess the full scope of the environmental impact of the General Plan and CAP climate action strategies. The 2045 General Plan and 2024 CAP propose to shut down the oil and gas industry, eliminating the County’s largest private employers, and the associated higher paying jobs, tax benefits, and goods and services provided locally by those local employers (goods and services that serve the County, region and the State). The EIR fails to identify and analyze any potential impact to the production, export and import of goods and products in the County, or the adverse impact on jobs, income and revenue for public services in the County, particularly for Impacted Communities. In addition to jobs displacement and loss of revenue and locally produced goods, our communities will also be subject to increased traffic, air quality and hazard impacts from the need to import from outside the region and the state those goods and services that are currently produced locally. None of these or other potential adverse impacts are evaluated in the EIR. Climate action strategies under the 2024 CAP also include incentivizing new buildings to be low-carbon or carbon neutral, retrofitting existing buildings and facilities to reduce energy use, and increasing the amount of electricity used and generated from renewable sources in Contra Costa County. Physical changes will be required by these energy strategies. The EIR fails to adequately evaluate the environmental impact of these climate action strategies. Implementation of the 2045 General Plan and 2024 CAP will result in relocation or construction of new or expanded energy facilities to transition to increased use of sources of renewable energy generated in the County. Additionally, substantial increase in County sources of renewable energy will be needed to accommodate transition to all electric new residential buildings, hotels, offices and retail. CAP Strategy B-1. Nevertheless, the EIR determines that the General Plan and 6 CAP would not result in new or expanded energy facilities that would cause significant environmental effects. The EIR erroneously concludes that the CAP does not propose land use changes and would not directly result in relocation or construction of new or expanded energy facilities, and that any new or expanded facilities resulting from the proposed General Plan ‘would undergo its own review to mitigate potentially significant environmental effects.” EIR, p. 5.6-34. Consequently, the EIR does not identify energy transition impacts for the CAP, nor does it evaluate any air quality, traffic, hazards, employment, water supply, or wastewater impacts of the transition to and creation of new energy facilities. Furthermore, the EIR fails to quantify the number, size and scope of renewable energy facilities that would result from General Plan and CAP policies/strategies, and fails to evaluate the potential environmental impacts or provide program- based mitigation measures. Potential impacts from development of new renewable energy facilities in the County include heat island impacts for solar panels, wildlife impacts related to migrating birds and solar and wind facilities, water supply impacts from cleaning solar panel, and construction and other impacts related to development of a varied range of local energy storage, transmission and generation facilities. The 2045 General Plan, 2024 CAP and EIR advocate the shutdown of the County’s largest private employers, without analysis or discussion of the viability of that proposal, and without identifying or evaluating any potential adverse impacts. The EIR fails to analyze the adverse impacts such proposed climate action strategies will have on jobs, population, housing, revenue, public services, traffic, air quality, and the economy. As such, the 2045 General Plan, 2024 CAP and EIR are fundamentally flawed and promote flawed projections that leave our workers, communities and businesses facing potentially disastrous circumstances without analysis or realistic options or alternatives. Sincerely yours, HOLLAND & KNIGHT LLP Letitia D. Moore cc: William R. Nelson, Principal Planner 7 Addressees: Supervisor Federal D. Glover - Federal.glover@bos.cccounty.us; district5@bos.cccounty.us Supervisor Ken Carlson - Supervisorcarlson@bos.cccounty.us Supervisor Diane Burgis - diane.burgis@bos.cccounty.us; supervisor_burgis@bos.cccounty.us Supervisor Candace Andersen - supervisorandersen@bos.cccounty.us Supervisor John M. Gioia - John.Gioia@bos.cccounty.us; john_gioia@bos.cccounty.us Chair Kevin Van Buskirk - vanbuskirk1691@gmail.com Director John Kopchik - john.kopchik@dcd.cccounty.us Cc: William R. Nelson - Will.Nelson@dcd.cccounty.us 1 | Comments on Draft Contra Costa 2040 General Plan – CNPS East Bay CALIFORNIA NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY East Bay Chapter www.ebcnps.org P.O. Box 5597, Elmwood Station, Berkeley, CA 94705 April 22, 2024 Will Nelson, Principal Planner Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development 30 Muir Road Martinez, CA 94553 via email: Will.Nelson@dcd.cccounty.us RE: Comments on Draft Contra Costa 2040 General Plan Dear Mr. Nelson, The California Native Plant Society, East Bay Chapter (CNPS) submits the following recommendations for the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Eeement of the Draft 2040 General Plan. We have also submitted these comments on the Envision Contra Costa website. Thank you and county staff for setting up evening workshops to discuss the draft plan. We believe that these recommendations are further support the conservation goals and values held by Contra Costa County and many county residents. We are available to describe the reasons for the recommended minor, but important, changes and additions. Below are images that capture the wording in the draft plan with recommended additions and revisions. 2 | Comments on Draft Contra Costa 2040 General Plan – CNPS East Bay CNPS East Bay recommends that the county not inadvertently encourage the conversion of parklands to urban uses as an appropriate or desirable development option in the General Plan/Envision 2040. Important ecological and natural resource areas are often the result of years of site resource inventories and citizen advocacy in trust that natural areas and parks will receive ongoing protection. If someone wants to open the door to try to convert natural resource areas and parks to urban uses, they will. This policy is unnecessary and appears to contradict the other policies in the conservation and open space section. Recommendation: We recommend deletion of COS P1.3. CNPS East Bay requests that the following native plant categories (in bold italics) be part of this policy to conform to California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) biological resource assessment protocols,* and to commit to conserving the area's unique and valuable native flora over the decades ahead. Recommendation: Require a biological resources assessment prepared according to State and federal protocols for projects with the potential to impact rare, threatened, and endangered special-status species, sensitive natural plant communities, and locally rare native plants and their habitats, and implement appropriate mitigation for identified impacts *reference: Protocols for Surveying and Evaluating Impacts to Special Status Native Plant Populations and Sensitive Natural Communities, CDFW, 3/20/18 Again, we request that the following native plant categories in bold italics be included to conform to California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) biological resources assessment 3 | Comments on Draft Contra Costa 2040 General Plan – CNPS East Bay protocols, and to commit to conserving the county's unique and valuable indigenous native flora over the decades ahead. Recommendation: Require appropriately-timed, comprehensive floristic and vegetation surveys prepared according to State and federal protocols when development is proposed on land with suitable habitat for special-status plant species, sensitive natural plant communities, and locally rare plants, including areas mapped by the California Native Plant Society as Botanical Priority Protection Areas. Note: To ensure that conservation action will follow appropriately timed, comprehensive floristic surveys, including for Botanical Priority Protection Areas, the strengthening of COS- P4.7, COS-P6.1, POS-P6.4, and an additional COS-Policy statement, is required. By definition, it seems that sensitive ecological resources not approved for removal require avoidance and protection. To provide actionable guidance from this policy, CNPS East Bay recommends the following wording in bold italics: Recommenda ion: The norm and standard for project entitlement will be to avoid and protect sensitive ecological resources, including special-status plants, sensitive natural plant communities, locally rare plants, and the intact pollinator and wildlife habitat they support. Disturbance or removal of sensitive ecological resources not approved for disturbance or removal during project entitlement will require restitution in exceedance of standard mitigation ratios for inadvertent damage to these resources. Preserving natural woodland and significant trees, particularly mature native trees , is ecologically and aesthetically valuable for many other reasons. At the same time, preserving natural woodlands and significant trees needs to include preserving the ecologically and 4 | Comments on Draft Contra Costa 2040 General Plan – CNPS East Bay aesthetically valuable native shrubs, grasses, and wildflowers associated with oak woodlands and other native tree communities. Natural woodland and native tree protection without preserving the associated native shrub and groundcover species can result in acres of trees with an understory of weeds, including flammable and ecologically invasive weeds. Recommendation: Preserve natural woodlands and significant trees, particularly mature native species and their associated native shrub, forbs, and grasses. Additional COS-P6.1a We recommend a companion policy to P6.1 that also recognizes the ecological and social values of preserving the rich and diverse native shrublands and grasslands of the county. Recommendation: Preserve areas of intact native shrublands and grasslands that are recognized as sensitive natural plant communities or that provide wildlife corridors or valuable pollinator, avian, and wildlife habitat. CNPS East Bay recommends an ecological approach to native tree planting, which also encourages the planting of habitat-supporting native shrubs, forbs, and grasses (see bold italics). Recommendation: Encourage the planting of native trees and habitat-supporting native shrubs, forbs, and grasses throughout the county to enhance the natural landscape, provide shade, sustain wildlife, absorb stormwater, and sequester carbon. We heartily support this recommendation, but ask that the county take a more active role by supporting, rather than only encouraging, invasive plant removal. In addition to public safety threats, we ask that ecological harm be included as a priority, too. 5 | Comments on Draft Contra Costa 2040 General Plan – CNPS East Bay Recommendation: Support actions that result in the removal of non-native, invasive trees, shrubs, and grassland weeds, especially those that are ecologically harmful or pose threats to public safety. Due to the root and other damage that can occur to trees by allowing construction work too close to the drip line, the tree root protection recommendations of California Oaks, and the climate change-related stress trees will likely be facing in the coming decades, we recommend Recommendation: Update County Ordinance Code Chapter 816-6 – Tree Protection and Preservation to enhance tree protections, including expansion of the tree root protection zone beyond the dripline and strengthening mitigation requirements/restitution for tree removal.* Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the Draft General Plan 2040. We support and look forward to policies and actions that will conserve Contra Costa County's remarkable natural beauty and diversity in the years ahead. Sincerely, Lesley Hunt President Jim Hanson Conservation Chair This message was sent from a public e-mail system and may be subject to disclosureunder the California Public Records Act. From: Colin Clarke <cclarke@ccta.net> Sent: Monday, April 22, 2024 5:00 PM To: Will Nelson <Will.Nelson@dcd.cccounty.us> Subject: comments on draft Climate Action Plan and General Plan update for 2040 Hi Will, Thank you for the opportunity to review. I'd be happy to coordinate and collaborate more if it's possible to review a copy in Microsoft Word Tracked Changes, discuss, etc. RE: Clean Transportation Network (TR) "private vehicle travel [can be] convenient". replace "is" which is inaccurate given decades of data showing traffic congestion and associated time delay, which is widely known to feel inconvenient. "significant volumes" feels unimportant and meaningless to most readers and the general public if not quantified at least within a credibly estimated range of numbers. Did the County use Artificial Intelligence (AI) or ChatGPT to improve the contents of this policy document? "profound impacts" include fatalities and severe injuries. Add mentions of Nov2023-BoS-adopted Vision Zero policy and Countywide Vision Zero policy (Sep2021 adopted by CCTA Board). Add beyond "local [regional, statewide, national, and global] environmental quality" to account for fossil fuels' contributions toward global warming, climate change, etc. which literally has affected nations across the world, including sea-level-rise, extreme heat, flooding, extreme weather, fires, etc. Does the County intend to establish a quantified baseline for Scope 1, 2, and 3 GHG emissions? And establish action-oriented strategies to reduce or minimize each? For more ideas, collaboration, etc. please feel free to coordinate and contact CCTA Planning Department Colin B. Clarke, AICP cclarke@ccta.net 925-256-4726 Hopefully the County can replace "If residents and workers are driving, they are in zero-emission vehicles" with language that explicitly prioritizes the most efficient movement of people, and vehicle miles traveled (VMT) reduction (e.g., toward traffic congestion which would be equivalently inconvenient/delayed even if fleet is all ZEVs instead of ICE vehicles), transit vehicles, lighter-duty (lower weight) vehicles, and encourages maximum occupancy of each vehicle. add/provide a credible-sourced estimated range of number of annual hours of "time lost in traffic" for residents, visitors, workers, etc. throughout Contra Costa. "five miles or [fewer]"... grammar correction. Micromobility devices can be publicly subsidized and commonly shared, and not only personally owned. Is there any mention of...? land use regarding sustainable aviation fuel, agricultural development, ground transportation fuels, vertical farming to reduce VMT, etc. Can the Transportation section be revised (in coordination with CCTA, in Microsoft Word Tracked Changes, and) to be more transformative? e.g., prioritize the most efficient modes of transportation with a primary focus on people and customer experience. Equity, safety, public health, livability, exercise and active transportation, lighter weight lighter duty vehicles, middle modalism "golf cart"-sized vehicles regionally. Will the County advocate for (funding and) implementation of...? a more contiguous, complete, and connected low-stress bike network by 2030 instead of leaving timeline for construction more open-ended for such a long-range plan when there is an active, adopted climate emergency. What happened to the strategies that were adopted in the Climate Action Plan? Measure LUT 4: Reduce vehicle miles traveled. Action Items: 1. Collaborate with BART and other transit providers to increase ridership in the county. 2. Partner with waste haulers and other fleets with regular routes to reduce the frequency of routes where possible. 3. Support and increase the use of carpooling services such as rideshare or casual carpool. 4. Continue to promote voluntary trip reduction programs such as school buses, Rideshare, Spare-the-Air Days, Bike to Work Day, employer shuttles, and alternative work schedules. 5. Work to increase densities within half a mile of BART and Amtrak stations, and within a quarter of a mile of stops for express bus routes. 6. Prioritize alternative mode access to BART and other transit stations. 7. Continue to explore funding transit with development applications and other alternative transportation finance methods. 8. Continue the County's policy of encouraging the establishment of Priority Economic Development Areas in residential communities. Why show a dead/inactive, old and unhealthy technology of a "chimney" on the home logo circle that includes a leaf? All the Best, Colin B. Clarke, AICP Planning Department, CCTA.net > Planning 925-256-4726 2999 Oak Road, Suite 100, Walnut Creek, CA 94597 April 22, 2024 Sent via email Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development 30 Muir Road Martinez, CA 94553 email@envisioncontracosta2040.org Re: Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan Dear Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development: These comments are submitted on behalf of the Center for Biological Diversity (the “Center”) regarding the Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan (“Plan”). The Center supports the overarching goals of the Plan and commends the County on their sustainable and equitable visions for the region. The Center provides these comments in an effort to strengthen the Plan and ensure that those goals are realized through specific and measurable targets and enforceable policies. The Center is a non-profit, public interest environmental organization dedicated to the protection of native species and their habitats through science, policy, and environmental law. The Center has over 1.7 million members and online activists throughout California and the United States. The Center and its members have worked for many years to protect imperiled plants and wildlife, open space, air and water quality, and overall quality of life in Contra Costa County and the surrounding region. I. The County Must Prioritize Public Safety and Prohibit New Development in Very High Wildfire Zones The Center appreciated the Plan’s proposed HS-P7.1 policy that would “deny applications for new residential subdivisions in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones and discourage residential subdivisions in High Fire Hazard Severity Zones.” However, this does not go far enough because new housing can still be built in these dangerous areas, as acknowledged by policy HS-P4.3 that only discourages new below-market-rate housing in High and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones. Almost all contemporary wildfires in California, 95% to 97%, are caused by human sources such as power lines, car sparks and electrical equipment.i Increasing sprawl development in highly fire-prone wildlands also increases unintentional ignitions and puts more people in danger.ii Wildfire is an important ecological process for many ecosystems. For millennia, Indigenous cultural burning and lightning strikes drove ecosystem-specific fire regimes. But the genocide of Native peoples and the criminalization of fire practices, along with 200 years of reckless land-use planning, have altered historical fire regimes.iii,iv This, in combination with climate change causing more extreme fire weather, longer fire seasons, and larger areas burned, has made wildfires more destructive to people and communities.v Since 2016 more than 200 people in California have been killed in wildfires, more than 50,000 structures have been burned down, hundreds of thousands have had to evacuate their homes and endure power outages, and millions have been exposed to unhealthy levels of smoke and air pollution.vi Poor air quality from fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in wildfire smoke has both acute and long-term health effects. Hospital visits for respiratory symptoms (e.g., asthma, acute bronchitis, pneumonia or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) have been shown to increase during and/or after wildfire events.vii There is also evidence that increases in all-cause mortalities and hospital visits for cardiovascular symptoms (e.g., congestive heart failure, ischemic heart disease, and myocardial infarction) are also linked to wildfires.vii Epidemiologists recently found that increased exposure to wildfire smoke may also be linked to higher rates of dementia.viii And wildland firefighters are suffering disproportionately high rates of cancer and other serious diseases, likely due to extreme smoke exposure,ix as well as mental health issues due to extended fire seasons and working extended shifts away from their families.x In addition to particulate matter from smoke, harmful and toxic substances from burning structures, like lead and zinc, are released in the air and can travel many miles to other communities.xi Such impacts disproportionately affect low-income and minority communities and vulnerable members of the population, like children, the elderly, and people with pre- existing health conditions. The economic impacts of wildfires affect residents throughout the state. Wildfires in 2018 cost Californians an estimated $148.5 billion in capital losses, health costs related to air pollution exposure, and indirect losses due to broader economic disruption cascading along regional and national supply chains.xii And the cost of emergency fire suppression continues to skyrocket year after year. Thus, it is imperative that the County commit to reducing these impacts and only build in areas that are not designated very high wildfire severity zones. II. The County Should Require the Implementation of Policies that Reduce Impacts to Wildlife Movement and Habitat Connectivity. As detailed in a 2021 Center Report (Yap et al., 2021), roads and development create barriers that lead to habitat loss and fragmentation, which harms native wildlife, plants, and people. As barriers to wildlife movement, poorly-planned development and roads can affect an animal’s behavior, movement patterns, reproductive success, and physiological state, which can lead to significant impacts on individual wildlife, populations, communities, landscapes, and ecosystem function (Brehme et al., 2013; Ceia-Hasse et al., 2018; Haddad et al., 2015; Marsh & Jaeger, 2015; Mitsch & Wilson, 1996; Trombulak & Frissell, 2000; van der Ree et al., 2011). For example, habitat fragmentation from roads and development has been shown to cause mortalities and harmful genetic isolation in mountain lions in southern California (Ernest et al., 2014; Riley et al., 2014; Vickers et al., 2015), increase local extinction risk in amphibians and reptiles (Brehme et al., 2018; Cushman, 2006), cause high levels of avoidance behavior and mortality in birds and insects (Benítez-López et al., 2010; Kantola et al., 2019; Loss et al., 2014), and alter pollinator behavior and degrade habitats (Aguilar et al., 2008; Goverde et al., 2002; Trombulak & Frissell, 2000). The Road Ecology Center at UC Davis estimated that reported wildlife-vehicle collisions with large mammals caused over one billion dollars ($1,000,000,000) in economic and social costs to Californians from 2016 to 2020 (Shilling et al., 2021). Many of these types of collisions go unreported or under-recorded, as some people may choose not to report crashes, people may not see animal carcasses on the road or in the right-of-way, or wounded animals move beyond the right-of-way before they die. Therefore, the wildlife death tolls, injuries to people, and costs could be much greater. Wildlife crossing structures can increase driver safety and are highly effective at reducing wildlife-vehicle collisions. Numerous readily available measures exist to avoid, minimize, and/or mitigate the impacts of roads on wildlife, including but not limited to the placement of exclusion/directional fencing and the construction of wildlife-friendly underpasses, overpasses, culverts, and elevated sections of road in key wildlife connectivity areas, and they have proved successful in other states. For example, wildlife passage features reduced vehicle-wildlife collisions along Highway 9 in Colorado by 92% (Kintsch et al., 2021) and along the I-15 in Utah by 98.5% (Bissonette & Rosa, 2012). Properly sited and designed wildlife passage features make roads safer for people and wildlife, which saves costs to society from fewer wildlife vehicle collisions (Center for Large Landscape Conservation, 2020). These safety measures can be applied to new transportation infrastructure as well as retrofitted to existing infrastructure to effectively reduce collisions. Habitat fragmentation also severely impacts plant communities. An 18-year study found that reconnected landscapes had nearly 14% more plant species compared to fragmented habitats, and that number is likely to continue to rise as time passes (Damschen et al., 2019). The authors conclude that efforts to preserve and enhance connectivity will pay off over the long- term (Damschen et al., 2019). In addition, connectivity between high quality habitat areas in heterogeneous landscapes is important to allow for range shifts and species migrations as climate changes (Cushman et al., 2013; Heller & Zavaleta, 2009; Krosby et al., 2018). Loss of wildlife connectivity decreases biodiversity and degrades ecosystems. It also prevents the reestablishment of native species, like wolves, as was seen with the dispersing wolf OR93 who traveled south from Oregon and roamed California until it was killed by a vehicle strike in Kern County in less than a year.xiii Edge effects of roads and development in and adjacent to open space will likely impact key, wide-ranging predators, such as mountain lions and bobcats (Crooks, 2002; Delaney et al., 2010; Lee et al., 2012; Riley et al., 2006; Smith et al., 2015, 2017; Vickers et al., 2015; Wang et al., 2017), as well as smaller species with poor dispersal abilities, such as song birds, small mammals, and herpetofauna (Benítez-López et al., 2010; Cushman, 2006; Kociolek et al., 2011; Slabbekoorn & Ripmeester, 2008). Limiting movement and dispersal can affect species’ ability to find food, shelter, mates, and refugia after disturbances like fires or floods. Individuals can die off, populations can become isolated, sensitive species can become locally extinct, and important ecological processes like plant pollination and nutrient cycling can be lost. Negative edge effects from human activity, such as traffic, lighting, noise, domestic pets, pollutants, invasive weeds, and increased fire frequency, have been found to be biologically significant up to 300 meters (~1000 feet) away from anthropogenic features in terrestrial systems (Environmental Law Institute, 2003) The County must also consider corridor redundancy (i.e. the availability of alternative pathways for movement) because it allows for improved functional connectivity and resilience. Compared to a single pathway, multiple connections between habitat patches increase the probability of movement across landscapes by a wider variety of species, and they provide more habitat for low-mobility species while still allowing for their dispersal (Mcrae et al., 2012; Olson & Burnett, 2013; Pinto & Keitt, 2008). In addition, corridor redundancy provides resilience to uncertainty, impacts of climate change, and extreme events, like flooding or wildfires, by providing alternate escape routes or refugia for animals seeking safety (Cushman et al., 2013; Mcrae et al., 2008, 2012; Olson & Burnett, 2013; Pinto & Keitt, 2008). Corridor redundancy is critical when considering the impacts of climate change on wildlife movement and habitat connectivity. Climate change is increasing stress on species and ecosystems, causing changes in distribution, phenology, physiology, vital rates, genetics, ecosystem structure and processes, and increasing species extinction risk (Warren et al., 2011). A 2016 analysis found that climate-related local extinctions are already widespread and have occurred in hundreds of species, including almost half of the 976 species surveyed (Wiens, 2016). A separate study estimated that nearly half of terrestrial non-flying threatened mammals and nearly one-quarter of threatened birds may have already been negatively impacted by climate change in at least part of their distribution (Pacifici et al., 2017). A 2016 meta-analysis reported that climate change is already impacting 82 percent of key ecological processes that form the foundation of healthy ecosystems and on which humans depend for basic needs (Scheffers et al., 2016). Genes are changing, species’ physiology and physical features such as body size are changing, species are moving to try to keep pace with suitable climate space, species are shifting their timing of breeding and migration, and entire ecosystems are under stress (Cahill et al., 2012; Chen et al., 2011; Maclean & Wilson, 2011; Parmesan, 2006; Parmesan & Yohe, 2003; Root et al., 2003; Warren et al., 2011). It is widely recognized that the continuing fragmentation of habitat by humans threatens biodiversity and diminishes our (humans, plants, and animals) ability to adapt to climate change. In a report for the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), world-renowned scientists from around the world stated that “[s]cience overwhelmingly shows that interconnected protected areas and other areas for biological diversity conservation are much more effective than disconnected areas in human-dominated systems, especially in the face of climate change” and “[i]t is imperative that the world moves toward a coherent global approach for ecological connectivity conservation, and begins to measure and monitor the effectiveness of efforts to protect connectivity and thereby achieve functional ecological networks” (Hilty et al., 2020). While the Plan does a good job at emphasizing the need for protecting wildlife connectivity and even listing some policies that would protect key linkage areas (COS-P4.4) and implement so design standards (COS-P4.5 and COS-A4.2), these are undermined by the passive language that does not require the implementation of these measures. The Plan should require road and highway projects to avoid large intact habitat areas and areas that are important for wildlife connectivity. The Plan should also specifically require that maintenance and new road projects implement adequate wildlife crossing infrastructure (including direction fencing if needed) with protected habitat on both to reduce impacts to wildlife movement and habitat connectivity. The County should consult biologists from CDFW, Caltrans, and other on-the-ground organizations and institutions, including Tribes, for such projects. In developing and adopting such measures, it is important to consider that different species have different behaviors and needs that affect how they move. For example, smaller species with poor dispersal abilities, like rodents and herpetofauna, would require more frequent intervals of crossings compared to larger wide-ranging species, like mountain lions or coyotes, to increase their chances of finding a crossing. Gunson et al. (Gunson et al., 2016) recommend that crossing structures generally be spaced about 300m (~0.19mi) apart for small animals when transportation infrastructure bisects large expanses of continuous habitat, though they recognize that some amphibians may need more frequent crossings no more than 50m (~0.03mi) apart. And for many amphibian and reptile species, undercrossings should have grated tops so that the light and moisture inside the crossings are similar to that of the ambient environment. (Brehme & Fisher, 2020) and (Langton & Clevenger, 2021) also provide additional guidance regarding amphibian crossings. Therefore, multiple crossings designed for different target species may be required. In-depth analyses that include on-the-ground movement studies of which species are moving in the area and their home range area, habitat use, and patterns of movement are needed to determine how to best implement such crossings. In addition, associated crossing infrastructure (e.g., exclusionary fencing appropriate for target species, berms to buffer crossings from sound and light) should be included to improve chances of wildlife using crossings, and such crossings and associated infrastructure should be designed and built in consultation with local and regional experts, including agency biologists. And to improve the effectiveness of any wildlife crossings, there should be protected habitat on both sides of the crossing; therefore, mitigation should also include acquiring unprotected lands on both sides of the roads where a wildlife crossing would be implemented, again, in consultation with local conservation organizations and stakeholders, and preserving and managing those lands in perpetuity to ensure that the wildlife crossings and associated infrastructure remain functional over time. Additionally, the County should implement a policy that requires the best practices for incorporating wildlife friendly measures into new developments. These include, but are not limited to: a. Setbacks on urban properties to provide a buffer for resource areas. b. Clustering of development to maximize ecological and conservation benefits. c. Lighting, fencing, screening, and landscaping/vegetation that support, and do not interfere with, wildlife migration and other conservation purposes All of which are already listed in policy COS-A4.2, but not required. III. The Plan Can and Should Do More to Reduce, Avoid, Or Mitigate Impacts to Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Climate Change. California is at the forefront of the climate crisis. Poor land-use planning and extreme weather events have led to an onslaught of disasters harming communities and threatening the state’s ecosystems and people’s livelihoods. Continuing business as usual and increasing capacity on existing roads for more carbon emissions will have significant impacts on the environment and local communities. It is therefore more critical than ever that the County adequately reduce, avoid or mitigate impacts of GHGs and climate change. i. The Plan Should Prioritize Investment in Public Transportation. Providing alternatives to single occupancy vehicle travel is essential to building an efficient, sustainable and equitable transportation system. Unfortunately, we have a long way to go if we are going to go to achieve this vision in the U.S. In 2013, it was reported that of all the U.S. daily commutes to work, 76.4% are of people driving alone.1 According to the Inventory of U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Sinks: 1990-2015, our collective daily transportation in the U.S. constitutes about 27% of the total greenhouse gasses released.2 To change these trends, government agencies need to invest in alternative modes of transportation to not only make them cheaper to use, but more efficient than driving. While the Plan does include some initiatives around alternative modes of transportation including policy TR-A1.10 that would “support the establishment of a Bay Area-wide transit fare equity program that includes free or means-based transit passes for qualifying residents of Impacted Communities,” the lack of specific targets and mandated programs ensures that no meaningful change will be achieved. 1 McKenzie, Brian. Who Drives to Work? Commuting by Automobile in the United States: 2013. Rep. N.p.: American Community Survey Reports, 2015. Print. 2 “Inventory of U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Sinks: 1990-2015.” EPA. Environmental Protection Agency, 09 June 2017. Web. 26 June 2017. Mandated goals on increasing public transportation usership should be articulated in the Plan. Some best practices include: (1) Provide free public transit services for future residents and workers This is virtually certain to result in significant ridership increases no matter where it is implemented. Evidence from previous studies indicate that ridership will usually increase from 20% to 60% in a matter of just a few months.3 One evaluation found that the net ridership increased by about 15% (about 45% during the off-peak periods) when there was no fee. This included the combined effects of an increase in trip frequency by prior users and an increase in the number of off-peak bus riders. Most new bus trips were diverted from other modes; very few were newly generated.4 (2) Implement Bus Only lanes Building dedicated bus lanes are relatively cheap and quick to install, dramatically reduce congestion and increase efficiency. All of these benefits lead to increases in ridership. A summary of research suggests that bus lanes that reduce total transit door-to-door travel times by 5-15% will “by themselves increase urban peak ridership 2-9%.” The City of Denver found that ridership increased 2.8% in the first six months of their tactical transit lines (TTLs)’ operation, even though travel speed improvements were relatively modest (3-6%), likely due to the TTL being an expansion of existing lanes that had already been operational during peak hours when TTLs yield the greatest benefits. 5 (3) Optimizing bus routes to minimize overlap and ensure coverage across the city in line with demand. Regional planning allows resources to be used efficiently and effectively to serve the areas that need it most. Houston re-specified their service after the light rail transit (LRT) was put in place to reduce overlapping of these services and to ensure transit coverage in other areas of the city. This resulted in a 7% increase in ridership on local bus and light-rail from 2015 to 2016.6 (5) Providing high-frequency, reliable services. The bus network can be divided into main routes and local routes, with different frequencies. Bus routes on main city arteries and roads used for longer distance travel will require a frequent service, at least every 15 minutes. This is the minimum frequency at which the service is usually considered good enough for travelers to turn up without consulting a schedule. On local routes, a 3 Studenmund, A. H., and David Connor. "The free-fare transit experiments." Transportation Research Part A: General 16.4 (1982): 261-269. 4 Ewing, Reid, and Robert Cervero. "Travel and the built environment: A meta-analysis." Journal of the American planning association 76.3 (2010): 265-294. 5 Gahbauer, John, and Juan Matute. "Best practices in implementing tactical transit lanes." (2019). https://escholarship.org/uc/item/1tj0974b 6 C40 Knowledge. “How to make public transport an attractive option in your city.” Published August 2021. https://www.c40knowledgehub.org/s/article/How-to-make-public-transport-an-attractive-option-in-your- city?language=en_US less frequent service may be sufficient, depending on demand and provided that the service operates punctually according to the timetable. São Paulo has implemented this dual frequency network timetable for the night shift, increasing night-time ridership by over 70%.6 (5) Building regular bus stops for easy access. Ensuring accessibility and convenience is essential to increasing ridership. Providing more bus stops decreases the distance residents have to travel to access such services. In Barcelona, the maximum distance between transit stops in the new bus network is 350m. In Seattle, the bus network upgrade plan will increase the percentage of households within 800m of frequent transit routes from 43% in 2015, to 73% by 2040.6 ii. The Plan Should Adopt Available Nature-based Solutions. The County should also look to nature-based conservation strategies, including protecting and preserving the County’s native habitats to store and sequester carbon locally to increase our chances of fighting the climate crisis in an effective and equitable manner. The County consists of large habitat areas that store and sequester significant amounts of carbon. As detailed in a 2023 Center report “Hidden in Plain Sight: California’s Native Habitats Are Valuable Carbon Sinks” (“2023 Center Report,” Yap et al., 2023), nonforest arid and semi-arid habitats can store carbon by keeping it from being released and sequester it by removing it from the atmosphere. The Plan does commit to prioritizing investments in preserving land via policy LU-P2.2 that would “enhance the ULL’s effectiveness by supporting efforts to acquire and permanently protect land along the ULL boundary” and policy COS-P1.1 that would “support efforts by public agencies and nonprofit organizations to acquire and permanently protect open space areas containing important ecological or scenic resources and areas that connect protected lands to form a cohesive system of open space.” Plan infrastructure to avoid interfering with such acquisitions whenever possible. However, the plan does allow for the destruction of these areas for “non-urban uses” such as “agriculture, mineral extraction, wind and solar energy production” (LU-P2.3). These uses still have a negative impact on native biodiversity and carbon sequestration and thus should be avoided if possible. Alternatively, investments should be made in climate-resilient housing solutions that help communities adapt to these challenges while simultaneously helping to address the root causes of climate change. Such strategies include optimal orientation of buildings, green roofs and reflective surfaces to reduce temperatures in and around buildings; air-filtration systems that can protect residents from poor air quality; and rainwater harvesting and recharge systems that capture water on the roofs of buildings, which can store water during drought and reduce flood risk during heavy rains.xiv New and existing buildings should be equipped with the most efficient appliances to reduce energy and water needs. Residential and commercial buildings should also have rooftop solar and battery storage systems to provide clean and reliable energy, bringing greater resilience during climate change events that often shut down regional power grid services.xv As stated in the Center for Biological Diversity’s 2023 Rooftop-Solar Justice report, “The climate emergency demands a rapid and just transition to a fossil-free energy grid. This should include millions of rooftop and similar solar installations on homes, buildings and other available areas. As electric car and all-electric building growth maintain demand for electricity, distributed solar will be vital for a stronger and more affordable grid. It will reduce the need for utility infrastructure by bringing more pollution-free renewables online, while also improving resiliency and reliability and adding jobs and value to communities. These benefits are particularly relevant for environmental justice communities, which face both higher energy burdens and disproportionate harms from the fossil fuel economy.” Investing in these measures will ensure communities are equipped with the necessary infrastructure to adapt to the changing climate. It is in our collective best interest to build sustainable, resilient homes that use the best available technologies to improve efficiency and provide people with the basic necessities of survival. IV. The Plan Should Commit to Reducing, Re-using and Recycling Water Policy COS-P7.9 “supports wastewater reclamation and reuse programs that maximize use of recycled water,” but that does not guarantee that they would be implemented. Requiring investment in these critical resiliency measures must be part of this plan. Additionally, the Plan does not fully divest from destructive projects such as the Delta Tunnel. Policy COS-P9.3 states that the County should “oppose all efforts to construct an isolated conveyance (e.g., peripheral canal, tunnel) or any other water diversion system that reduces Delta water flows unless and until it can be conclusively demonstrated that such a system would protect, preserve, and enhance water quality and fisheries of the San Francisco Bay/Delta estuary system.” The science is clear. The proposed Delta Tunnel conveyance project would irreparably harm the Delta ecosystem, leaving local communities with bad water quality and a collapsed fishery. Implying that the project could mitigate those harms to an “acceptable” level is a false solution and opens the door to further investment in this terrible project. The County should firmly oppose this project and instead invest in water resiliency measures such as recycling and groundwater recharge, as stated in policy COS-P7.6. V. Land Use Policies that Promote Good Air Quality Should Be a Requirement in the Plan Air quality is a significant environmental and public health concern in California. Unhealthy, polluted air contributes to and exacerbates many diseases and increases mortality rates. The U.S. government has estimated that between 10 to 12 percent of total health costs can be attributed to air pollution. (VCAPCD 2003.) Greenhouse gases, such as the air pollutant carbon dioxide, which is released by fossil fuel combustion, contribute directly to human- induced climate change (EPA 2016), and in a positive feedback loop, poor air quality that contributes to climate change will in turn worsen the impacts of climate change and attendant air pollution. (BAAQMD 2016.) Air pollution and its impacts are felt most heavily by young children, the elderly, pregnant women and people with existing heart and lung disease. People living in poverty are also more susceptible to air pollution as they are less able to relocate to less polluted areas, and their homes and places of work are more likely to be located near sources of pollution, such as freeways or ports, as these areas are more affordable. (ALA 2022.) Some of the nation’s most polluted counties are in Southern California, and San Bernadino County continually tops the list. (ALA 2022.) According to the American Lung Association’s 2022 “State of the Air” report, San Bernadino County is the ninth-worst ranked county in the state for both ozone pollution and year-round particulate matter (PM2.5) pollution, with a “Fail” grade and an average number of 180 days per year with ozone levels in the unhealthy range. (Id.) Even more disturbing, the same report found that San Bernadino County is one of only fourteen counties in the country that received a “Fail” grade in all air quality metrics. (Id.) Although there are many different types of air pollution, Ozone, PM2.5, and Toxic Air Contaminants (TACs) are of greatest concern. These three air pollutants have been linked to an increased incidence and risk of cancer, birth defects, low birth weights and premature death, in addition to a variety of cardiac and lung diseases such as asthma, COPD, stroke and heart attack. (Laurent 2016; ALA 2022.) Ozone (commonly referred to as smog) is created by the atmospheric mixing of chemicals released from fossil fuel combustion – such as reactive organic gases (ROG) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) – and sunlight. Although it is invisible, ozone poses one of the greatest health risks, prompting the EPA to strengthen its National Ambient Air Quality Standard for Ozone in 2015. (ALA 2022.) PM2.5 is a common component of vehicle exhaust emissions and contributes to visible air pollution. These tiny particles are dangerous because they are small enough to escape our body’s natural defenses and enter the blood stream. Fugitive dust is a term used for fine particulate matter that results from disturbance by human activity such as construction and road-building operations. (VCAPCD 2003.) TACs are released from vehicle fuels, especially diesel, which accounts for 70% of the cancer risk from TACs. (CARB 2022a.) Warehouse projects are well-documented sources of air quality degradation that can create serious, negative health outcomes for surrounding communities. (Betancourt 2012, pp. 4- 5.) Particulate emissions from diesel vehicles that carry freight to and from warehouses contribute to “cardiovascular problems, cancer, asthma, decreased lung function and capacity, reproductive health problems, and premature death.” (Id. at 5.) While the Plan includes policy HS-A1.3 which states that the County should “include an Industrial-Sensitive Receptor Interface Overlay Zone … and require industrial uses to reduce pollution and employ strategies to mitigate air quality, noise, vibration, odor, light, visual, and safety impacts on nearby sensitive receptors” this is not enough. Proximity to pollution is the biggest factor influencing public health and therefore buffer zones are the most effective measure to protect residents from pollution sources. Per the California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) guidance, siting warehouse facilities so that their property lines are at least 1,000 feet from the property lines of the nearest sensitive receptors is considered best practice. Without such protections, projects continue to be built near schools, homes, healthcare facilities and other sensitive receptors. A 1,000 foot buffer zone when siting warehouses over 100,000 square feet next to schools, homes, healthcare facilities, and other sensitive receptors would decrease the rates of asthma, heart disease, cancer and other public health issues. Even the California Attorney General has recommended 1,000 feet as a buffer zone because it reduces exposure to diesel particulate matter by 80%. We support policy HS-P1.6 that requires that any mitigation of air quality impacts occur onsite to the extent feasible to provide the greatest benefit to local residents, but the County can and should do more to prevent these pollution sources from being built near communities. Residents should have the right to clean air and this Plan has an opportunity to prioritize that right for current and future generations. VI. The Plan Must Implement Affordable Housing Policies to Ensure that the Region Provides Equitable Housing Opportunities for All Residents It is also important to prioritize housing affordability in all future land-use decisions. Building more market-rate housing alone will not solve our housing crisis. We need greater public investment to ensure that every new development will provide opportunities for those with low incomes. This is especially important in high-income neighborhoods that often provide some of the best public resources but have historically remained exclusionary because of redlining and other discriminatory land-use decisions. Policy LU-P7.2 addresses by stating that “housing opportunities should be provided for all economic segments of the population, ensuring that affordable housing is distributed throughout the county and is not concentrated in traditionally lower-income areas.” It also would “promote development of affordable housing near public transit and essential services whenever possible.” This is a great start, but it is going to take a much greater commitment to ensure community members have access to truly affordable and climate resilient housing. Below are 5 policy recommendations that would significantly increase the amount of affordable housing in the County: 1. Permanently protect all current affordable housing. Many affordable units are only mandated to remain affordable for a set amount of time. This means they are susceptible to being converted to market-rate units after their term limits expire. Preserving existing affordable housing, including ensuring they meet high quality and safety standards as they age, is an essential part of solving the affordable housing crisis. This requires investment from government agencies to permanently protect current affordable units and enact policies to ensure that all new affordable units do not have term limits. Unless we protect current affordable housing, future investments will onot be additive but will merely replace affordable units lost to the housing market. This is an essential first step to provide security for those who rely on affordable housing, giving them the confidence that they will not be pushed out of their communities because of a sudden rise in rent. 2. Solidify legally binding anti-displacement policies. While there is an abundant need to produce more affordable housing, changes in land-use policy have the potential to harm existing communities. It is imperative that the first course of action is to legally protect current residents. This ensures that future public investment will serve existing community members, while creating opportunity for others to access these resources. When rental units are taken off the market for redevelopment, policies should be in place that require property owners to provide tenant compensation before the change. Tenants should be given a “right of return” at the same rent as before, and rental assistance during redevelopment in the same neighborhood. Tenants should also have the option to negotiate a fair, voluntary buyout agreement in lieu of a right to return. 3. Regulate Short Term Rentals A landmark study led by Kyle Barron of the National Bureau of Economic Research found that Airbnb was responsible for nearly one-fifth of all the residential rent increases in the United States between 2012 and 2016. The County should be collecting fines from short-term rental hosts who are breaking the law and the County should hold short-term rental companies — Airbnb, but also the many smaller players in the market — financially responsible for illegal activities occurring on their platforms. The government of Quebec has introduced fines of up to $100,000 per listing that does not have a valid license number. These numbers are tantamount to saying to Airbnb and the other platforms “follow the rules or leave town.” Contra Costa County should take the same approach. Finally, the County should eliminate home-sharing licenses. These licenses allow hosts to offer short-term rentals year-round, and they enrich a small number of commercial operators at the cost of residents paying more for their own housing. 4. Upzone urban infill areas and require at least 20% of all new units be affordable in perpetuity Affordable housing is only equitable if low-income residents are provided housing opportunities with access to public resources. This requires cities and counties to reform current zoning laws that have reinforced the redlining of low-income communities of color. Changing existing single-family zoning to denser zoning that includes duplexes or multifamily units would encourage higher density in existing communities. For instance, in Los Angeles around 74% of housing is zoned single-family residential, and rents are among the highest in the nation.i Shifting to more compact housing types significantly reduces residential land consumption. A mix of 80% single-family, 10% attached and 10% multifamily housing requires about twice as much land as an equal mix of housing types, and more than three times as much land as 10% single-family, 40% attached and 50% multifamily housing.45 It’s important to note that many existing single-family lots are very large (e.g., 8,000+ square feet) and could accommodate duplexes or be split into two separate smaller lots large enough for single-family houses and separate yards. However, upzoning alone is not enough. We need to increase equitable affordable housing in communities that have remained exclusionary. This could be achieved by enacting a statewide inclusionary housing mandate of 15% at 50% of average median income or 20% at 60% of average median income for all new development of five units or more. 5. Eliminate in-lieu fees to ensure those units are built Onsight. Finally, in-lieu fees, or fees that a developer pays into a fund to be spent on affordable housing elsewhere, should be eliminated, ensuring that all new developments with affordable housing requirements will be built onsite. In-lieu fees allow developers to pay their way out of affordable housing requirements leading to highly segregated neighborhoods and displacement of low-income residents to off-site affordable units. To ensure that low-income residents are provided affordable options in neighborhoods with the high public investment, we need to eliminate this option for developers. VII. Conclusion We strongly urge the County to adopt our recommendations and include strong policy language that protects native species, promote habitat connectivity, reduces greenhouse gas emissions and ensures affordable housing and public transportation to all community members. Thank you for the opportunity to submit comments. 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Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 114(11), 2946-2951. ii Yap, Tiffany, et. al. “Built to Burn: California’s Wildlands Developments Are Playing With Fire.” February 2021. https://www.biologicaldiversity.org/programs/urban/pdfs/Built-to-Burn-California-Wildfire-Report-Center- Biological-Diversity.pdf iii Williams, J. N., Safford, H. D., Enstice, N., Steel, Z. L., & Paulson, A. K. (2023). High‐severity burned area and proportion exceed historic conditions in Sierra Nevada, California, and adjacent ranges. Ecosphere, 14(1), e4397. iv Steel, Z. L., Koontz, M. J., & Safford, H. D. (2018). The changing landscape of wildfire: burn pattern trends and implications for California’s yellow pine and mixed conifer forests. Landscape Ecology, 33, 1159-1176. v Turco, M., Abatzoglou, J. T., Herrera, S., Zhuang, Y., Jerez, S., Lucas, D. D., ... & Cvijanovic, I. (2023). Anthropogenic climate change impacts exacerbate summer forest fires in California. 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The Lancet Regional Health–Americas, 21. x Ramirez, William & Ashton, Adam. “249 nights away at California fires: Firefighter families cope with a ‘new normal’.” The Sacramento Bee. October 30, 2019. https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/the-state- worker/article236766608.html xi California Air Resources Board. “Camp Fire Air Quality Data Analysis.” https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/documents/camp-fire-air-quality-data-analysis. Accessed November 21, 2023 xii Wang, Daoping, et al. "Economic footprint of California wildfires in 2018." Nature Sustainability 4.3 (2021): 252- 260. Center for Biological Diversity Comments; Page 19 xiii California Department of Fish and Wildlife. “Newsroom: OR93 Found Dead In Kern County.” Accessed November 30, 2021. https://wildlife.ca.gov/News/or93-found-dead-in-kern-county xiv Un Environment Programme. “5 ways to make buildings climate change resilient.” July 7, 2021. https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/story/5-ways-make-buildings-climate-change- resilient#:~:text=Strong%20connections%20between%20foundations%20and,sucking%20in%20air%20from%20ou tside. xv Center for Biological Diversity. “Rooftop Solar-Justice.” 2023. https://www.biologicaldiversity.org/programs/energy-justice/pdfs/Rooftop-Solar-Justice-Report-March-2023.pdf To: Jody London <Jody.London@dcd.cccounty.us> Cc: Demian Hardman <Demian.Hardman@dcd.cccounty.us> Subject: I sent my comments b4 the deadline but here are a few typos corrected - I was wondering if this might constitute my comments Re: CAP deadline. I sent my comments b4 the deadline but here are a few typos corrected - I was wondering if this might constitute my comments, if possible. Re: CAP deadline. Thanks for the consideration. Best. Charles Davidson. Dx V Dust. Comm. Member (510) 837-8441 On Apr 8, 2024, at 5:08 PM, Jody London <Jody.London@dcd.cccounty.us> wrote: Charles, I just emailed you an announcement that the comment period on the CAP and General Plan has been extended to April 22. Jody London Sustainability Coordinator Contra Costa County (925) 655-2815 (office) (925) 434-3250 (mobile) www.contracosta.ca.gov/6780/Sustainability -----Original Message----- From: Charles Davidson <charlesdavidson@me.com> Sent: Monday, April 8, 2024 4:35 PM To: Demian Hardman <Demian.Hardman@dcd.cccounty.us> Cc: Jody London <Jody.London@dcd.cccounty.us> Subject: CAP deadline. Hi. I will send in my comments tonight. After 5 pm if that is OK. Thanks. Sent from my iPhone Subject: In-Depth Evaluation and Recommendations on the Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan. To: The Board of Supervisors, Staff and Members of the Sustainability Commission. Contra Costa County, Hercules. District V. From: Charles Davidson charlesdavidson@me.com (22 April 2024) 1 Charles Davidson Member, Sustainability Commission Contra Costa County. April 22, 2024 To: The Board of Supervisors and Members of the Sustainability Commission Contra Costa County Subject: In-Depth Evaluation and Recommendations on the Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan Dear Members of the Board of Supervisors and Sustainability Commission, As a dedicated member of the Sustainability Commission, I am compelled to present a detailed critique of the Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan as outlined in the Public Review Draft – October 2023. My analysis is driven by a commitment to ensure that our strategies not only align with scientific best practices but also safeguard public funds from being expended on unproven at scale or potentially hazardous technologies. My critique references industrial carbon-management policies that are close to being documented endorsements by the County without a complete in-depth discussion of the legal, public health and safety implications of these technologies when deployed at scale within Environmental Justice communities. By having industrial policy so deeply buried within the draft Climate Action Plan (that is a major component of the Envision 2045 County General Plan), it will make the Sustainability Commission complicit in advocating for policies that will certainly be involved in legal controversies. This letter will elucidate specific issues regarding hazards, financial costs, and biases within the proposed CAP and suggest a redirection towards more reliable and cost- effective environmental strategies. For the following reasons outlined in this letter, I cannot support Contra Costa County’s Draft Climate Action Plan because of the industrial carbon management policies being advocated –– both explicitly and implicitly –– have long-term implications and profound regulatory gaps that are counter to both environmental stewardship or environmental justice. 1. Critical Examination of Endorsed Technologies One merely begins with Contra Costa County’s Draft Climate Action Plan (p.16) that recommends that the County adopt policies to facilitate the County’s 2023 Healthy Lands, Healthy People study as Strategic Action NL-4 to pursue the implementation of recommendations from the carbon sequestration feasibility study, Healthy Lands, Healthy People to facilitate: Subject: In-Depth Evaluation and Recommendations on the Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan. To: The Board of Supervisors, Staff and Members of the Sustainability Commission. Contra Costa County, Hercules. District V. From: Charles Davidson charlesdavidson@me.com (22 April 2024) 2 “GHG emissions reduction strategies…[and] carbon neutrality…by expanding actions to capture and store carbon, including through natural and working lands and mechanical technologies, while drastically reducing anthropogenic sources of carbon pollution at the same time. Mechanical carbon sequestration is embedded within the broad CAP endorsements intertwined with its endorsement of the "Healthy Lands, Healthy People: A Carbon Sequestration Feasibility Study" (completed in 2023) by advocacy for CCS and promoting the county’s non-required implementation of CCS per California law SB905, that states that a: “Carbon dioxide capture, removal, or sequestration project” means a carbon dioxide capture project, a carbon dioxide removal project, or a sequestration project that seeks to provide for the long-term isolation of the carbon dioxide from the atmosphere through storage in a geologic formation.” And that “CCS technology...means carbon capture, utilization, and storage technology or equipment used for capturing and sequestering carbon dioxide emissions from industrial, commercial, or energy-related facilities or sources”. Geological-Industrial CCS Concerns: The Climate Action Plan references geological CCS as a viable strategy for long-term carbon sequestration. However, this technology, as proposed, is fraught with challenges, notably CO2 pipeline safety. There exists the not disproven potential for significant CO2 leakage, both in the catastrophic short-term sense and regarding the long-term viability of geological CO2 storage. To begin with, water in carbon steel pipelines can lead to corrosive carbonic acid from dissolved CO2 and hydro-sulfuric acid from dissolved hydrogen sulfide (H2S), accelerating corrosion and compromising pipeline integrity, necessitating expensive steel alloys. Planned in our area, the 12-mile pipeline from Pittsburg-to-Montezuma local CCS project's Phase Two aims to capture CO2 from multiple refineries’ fuel gas, potentially introducing H2S corrosion somewhere within the additional 50 miles of additional steel pipelines. Supercritical CO2 (SC CO2) exhibits unique gas and liquid properties beyond its critical point. Sudden pressure drops or temperature changes can trigger phase changes, causing rapid density and volume shifts, leading to a propagating shock wave and an "unzipping" effect that worsens initial damage. CCS technologies face hurdles due to natural gas's dominance and the lower CO2 concentration in California’s Natural Gas Combined Cycle (NGCC) flue gas (from the three Contra Costa County electrical power plants), that would be in Phase One of the Montezuma CCS project. Despite being more efficient than coal-fired plants, CCS can drop a NGCC plant's efficiency from 60% to 48%, requiring operators to increase output by 25% to maintain previous demand levels. Subject: In-Depth Evaluation and Recommendations on the Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan. To: The Board of Supervisors, Staff and Members of the Sustainability Commission. Contra Costa County, Hercules. District V. From: Charles Davidson charlesdavidson@me.com (22 April 2024) 3 A comprehensive approach to sequester or otherwise reduce carbon input into the atmosphere is needed, focusing on sustainable non-thermodynamic alternatives to outdated fossil fuel technologies. Reforestation and most recently, cost-efficient hybrid solar-plus-battery renewable energy storage systems offer efficient, large-scale eco-friendly real solutions for carbon emission reduction and a transition from fossil fuels. Notably, the Pipeline Safety Trust highlights significant risks from a major CO2 pipeline expansion, citing regulatory gaps in siting, fracture mitigation, the cost of corrosion-resistant alloys, potential impact areas, odorant use, emergency response, contaminant presence, and regulating CO2 pipelines in various phases. The County’s 2023 Healthy Lands, Healthy People study as Strategic Action NL-4 in the Climate Action Plan recommendation not only prominently advocates for large-scale implementation of industrial geological CCS technology, but more subtly, advocates for the development of a massively expanded hydrogen economy. The on-the-ground reality of two current mixed municipal waste-to-hydrogen anaerobic pyrolysis industrial-scale “hydrogen hubs” projects in Contra Costa County is that they will be located in very close proximity to mostly underrepresented disadvantaged communities, with a legacy of marked negative health disparities by a number of metrics. How does the CAP connect to mixed municipal waste incineration through Strategic Action NL- 4, in a manner that entirely neglects to mention the proximal industrial risk and urban environmental justice implications of this adaptation, such as its already documented intention to incinerate plastic waste as a portion of its feedstock. It is not that biochar is a bad product, in and of itself, to create a biochar product for agricultural soils as a soil amendment. However, its feedstock or manufacturing siting location might be highly inappropriate and also its overly stated importance of Healthy Lands, Healthy People towards pyrolytic biochar production, is naive, to say the least. Healthy Lands, Healthy People states: “Biochar is the remaining residue after organic matter (trees, vegetation, food waste, etc.) undergoes heating or baking with limited oxygen in a process known as pyrolysis. Biochar application as a soil amendment …in agricultural settings has gained interest for its potential to increase water holding capacity, soil fertility, and carbon sequestration. Biochar use is limited by its availability, as it is produced in very few locations, and many of the estimated GHG benefits are lost once the product is shipped over a certain distance. Still, with the exploration into new energy production technologies derived from biomass and the potential for biochar to be widely available, it is a management practice to further consider.” Subject: In-Depth Evaluation and Recommendations on the Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan. To: The Board of Supervisors, Staff and Members of the Sustainability Commission. Contra Costa County, Hercules. District V. From: Charles Davidson charlesdavidson@me.com (22 April 2024) 4 Both of these technologies, CCS and mixed municipal waste-to-hydrogen pyrolysis, though seemingly innovative, operate at extreme thermodynamic (high-pressure) regimes, are experimental at the scales proposed and come with high economic costs and operational risks to nearby disadvantaged urban, communities. The specific mention of geological CCS and urban- cited waste-to-hydrogen pyrolytic incineration (already approved for allowing plastics pyrolysis), as sustainable practices warrant a rigorous review due to their nascent stages of development and significant potential for financial and energy inefficiencies or social injustices of uncritically deploying this (not really innovative) technology. Hydrogen Economy Risks: Similarly, the expansion of a hydrogen-based economy as described using pyrolysis to create biochar for agricultural soil amendment involves substantial risks related to hydrogen leakage, which could lead to explosions. The technological immaturity of controlling such emissions effectively and the absence of robust safety protocols in urban settings are not adequately addressed in the draft. The proximity of the proposed facility to residential areas amplifies the potential health risks associated with its operation. The emissions from the pyrolysis process, including reactive organic gases, nitrogen oxides, particulate matter (PM2.5), greenhouse gases and odors, pose significant concerns for respiratory health, cardiovascular systems, and overall well-being. The facility's expected operation—24/7, with 50-100 diesel truck trips per day—further exacerbates local air quality issues, contributing to the pollution burden already felt by the surrounding community. Another potential community concern is the acrid and rancid food-waste odors related to H-Cycle’s handling of decomposing food wastes. Additionally, a potential safety- related community concern, besides direct plant-operational gaseous emissions, is H-Cycle’s storage, pipelines and on-road trucking of compressed hydrogen at approximately 200-times atmospheric pressure with up to 40 hydrogen tanker trucks per day. 2. Discrepancies in Environmental and Health Impact Assessments: The Plan’s endorsement of certain technologies seems to overlook substantial environmental justice and public health implications. The push towards both CCS and pyrolytic incineration, specifically, could disproportionately affect disadvantaged communities by exposing them to increased environmental hazards. Take, for example the impact on local communities of the proposed pyrolytic project in Pittsburg, which includes including plastics incineration for hydrogen production. Note that these are the same residents who would also be the nearest neighbors to Phase One of the Pittsburg-to- Montezuma CCS project connecting to the east CC County electrical power plants. The siting of the proposed H-Cycle municipal solid waste facility adjacent to communities designated as disadvantaged under SB 535––and frequently ranking above the 90th percentile on CalEnviroScreen 4.0 for both disease and toxic burden––raises profound ethical and Subject: In-Depth Evaluation and Recommendations on the Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan. To: The Board of Supervisors, Staff and Members of the Sustainability Commission. Contra Costa County, Hercules. District V. From: Charles Davidson charlesdavidson@me.com (22 April 2024) 5 environmental justice concerns. Introducing a waste-to-hydrogen manufacturing facility in such an area, with large-scale incineration and intense compression of flammable gases, but without a fully transparent and more deeply engaging public review process, overlooks the cumulative pollution burden borne by the community and disregards the potential for further exacerbating health disparities. The ”we will (better) regulate it later” is a false canard. CalEnviroScreen 4.0 assessment (developed by the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) and the California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA)), is a tool designed to identify California communities that are most affected by various environmental burdens. CalEnviroScreen 4.0 highlights that for nine-tenths (9/10) of the 25,785 persons within the five census tracts (located less than one mile from the H-Cycle facility) the percentile ranking score for asthma is either 98% or 99%. H-Cycles projected siting in Rodeo, another disadvantaged community that has a similar stark public health and asthma percentile ranking would be located as close as one football field away from a 1,100-home neighborhood with the center of the waste-to-hydrogen facility located only two football fields away from the neighborhoods fenceline. • Impact on Local Communities: The proposed pyrolytic project in Pittsburg, which involves incinerating plastic for hydrogen production, is a prime example. This process, located near residential areas, could emit harmful pollutants, yet the Plan lacks a transparent assessment of these risks. Furthermore, historical precedents in the county have shown that General Plan- approved industrial activities such as oil and gas drilling near communities like those around Kaiser Antioch Hospital and local schools have led to detrimental health impacts. Unintended Consequences: The Climate Action Plan and the linkage to previous climate- related documents. Past County General Plans: Looking back to the 1990s General Plan, oil and gas drilling was to be allowed on agricultural land, in order to preserve the (economic) viability of that land. Fast forward to today, we have existing oil well one half-mile from Antioch Kaiser Hospital and a high school, on unincorporated county land, directly abutting what was a planned, now cancelled, senior housing development (in the City of Antioch, proper). Making matters worse, a nearby oil-field wastewater well is currently being proposed and is in the application process by the same well operator, who constructed the oil well without a county permit. The proposed oilfield wastewater disposal would be through a currently capped and Subject: In-Depth Evaluation and Recommendations on the Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan. To: The Board of Supervisors, Staff and Members of the Sustainability Commission. Contra Costa County, Hercules. District V. From: Charles Davidson charlesdavidson@me.com (22 April 2024) 6 abandoned 60-year-old dry gas well that goes directly through a drinking water aquifer (used by the City of Antioch within the East CC County Municipal District). Whether innocently, naively or disingenuously, previous boards of supervisors merely recapitulated older environmentally-related decrees from past county general plans going back to the 1960’s, such as in their 2005-2020 General Plan (Existing General Plan with the 2023-2031 Housing Element); OIL AND GAS RESOURCES POLICIES 8-69, that states: “The production of gas and oil resources shall be encouraged as a way to support the agricultural viability of rural areas.” https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/30918/Ch8-Conservation- Element?bidId= 3. Overreliance on Federal Subsidies and Insufficient Local Integration: The Climate Action Plan, without articulating such, is entirely reliant on expected potential federal funding, such as the 45Q and 45V credits from the Inflation Reduction Act for CCS and waste-to-hydrogen (for non-green energy hubs that have already been approved to incinerate plastics), respectively. This advocacy is still without a clear strategy to ensure these funds benefit local communities, when the most direct manner is to enhance local cost-effective and safe electrification, like solar and battery storage that would also benefit grid resiliency. Contra Costa County has more industrial brownfields than the rest of the Bay Area combined, 60-square miles worth, that would be ideal candidate sites for the facile implementation of grid-connected solar-plus-battery installations. An approach of ignoring unprecedented electrification opportunities, such as with using IRA funding, seems misaligned with the urgent need for local energy resilience and sustainability, in addition to not taking the opportunity to benefit communities long disabused by a legacy of polluting industries. To note that neither Contra Costa County nor MCE have any existing IRA applications, as opposed to subsidized CCS and pyrolysis incineration projects. • Need for Local Energy Strategies: There is a notable absence in the Plan of a committed strategy to integrate and expand local renewable energy projects, which are vital for reducing dependency on unsustainable practices. The lack of investment in local solar and battery storage initiatives undermines the goal of community-centered sustainability and environmental justice. 4. Suggestions for Strategic Redirection In light of these concerns, I urge a thorough reevaluation of the current strategic direction of the Climate Action Plan. It is crucial that we Subject: In-Depth Evaluation and Recommendations on the Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan. To: The Board of Supervisors, Staff and Members of the Sustainability Commission. Contra Costa County, Hercules. District V. From: Charles Davidson charlesdavidson@me.com (22 April 2024) 7 shift our focus towards integrating scientifically validated, cost-effective, and environmentally sound practices. • Promoting Proven Low-Carbon Solutions: Instead of allocating substantial public resources towards unproven technologies, the county should enhance its investment in proven solutions such as solar energy, wind power, and energy efficiency upgrades. These are not only more cost- effective but also provide clearer benefits in terms of carbon reduction and energy resilience. • Enhancing Public and Environmental Health Protections: We must prioritize strategies that protect public health and ensure environmental justice. This includes implementing stricter emissions controls, improving community right-to-know policies, and ensuring that environmental impact assessments are thorough and transparent. It is my conclusion that while the Climate Action Plan aims to position Contra Costa County as a leader in climate action, it is imperative that our strategies are grounded in scientific validity, cost-effectiveness, genuine sustainability and environmental justice. I look forward to working collaboratively with the Board and the Commission to refine our approach and ensure that our environmental policies effectively safeguard our community and natural resources. Thank you for considering this critical perspective. I am eager to engage further in constructive dialogue and to assist in the development of a revised, more sustainable strategic framework for our county’s environmental policies. Sincerely, Charles Davidson. Hercules CA Member, Sustainability Commission Contra Costa County ATTACHMENT E OCTOBER 2023 PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT 2045 GENERAL PLAN WITH KONVEIO COMMENTS ATTACHMENT E: OCTOBER 2023 PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT 2045 GENERAL PLAN WITH KONVEIO COMMENTS Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan Public Review Draft | October 17, 2023 001 Page 1Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #001 Posted by Crystal on 10/30/2023 at 1:27pm [Comment ID: 11] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 I have a suggestion can we put speed bumps on Parker Ave too slow down cars and for the safety of our families and our children Page 2Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 002 Page 3Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #002 Posted by Jon and Christiane wilson on 04/08/2024 at 4:29pm [Comment ID: 63] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 We are the property owners of Leigh Court immediately adjacent to the Santos properties on Cherry lane. We are concerned regarding the proposed high density plan being considered by the county. We believe a medium density plan would be more in keeping with the current neighborhood and the future goals of the area. We are confident a medium density development would provide the best plan for our area Page 4Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 ORANGE COUNTY • BAY AREA • SACRAMENTO • CENTRAL COAST • LOS ANGELES • INLAND EMPIRE www.placeworks.com Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan Prepared By: PlaceWorks 2040 Bancroft Way, Suite 400 Berkeley, California 94704 t 510.848.3815 In Association With: Barry Miller Consulting Fehr & Peers BAE Urban Economics ICF Jones & Stokes, Inc. Public Review Draft | October 17, 2023 Page 5Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Page 6Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 In Contra Costa County in 2045: ►Communities are inclusive, close-knit, thriving, and engaged. ►All residents feel safe and secure in their homes and neighborhoods. ►Housing is affordable for everyone and no one is left without a home. ►All communities benefit equitably from a growing economy that is sustainable and just. ►All residents live in communities where they breathe clean air, are not burdened with toxic exposures, and have an opportunity to pursue healthy and fulfilling lives. ►Everyone enjoys safe, affordable, and reliable public transportation that takes them where they want and need to go: to good-paying sustainable jobs, quality schools, affordable grocery stores and essential services, recreation, and health care facilities. ►There are parks, community centers and gardens, small businesses, and faith spaces available to serve everyone in the diverse population. ►The county’s scenic landscapes and unique natural features are preserved. ►Focused and ambitious actions are taken to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve community resilience, and adapt equitably to a changing climate. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY 2045 GENERAL PLAN 003 Page 7Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #003 Posted by Dick Offerman on 01/31/2024 at 1:49pm [Comment ID: 34] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 Residents are being subjected to a toxic exposure, being dusted repeatedly by lead tainted exhaust from aircraft using leaded aviation fuel. Please stop the County from selling this toxic fuel. Please use an unleaded version of aviation fuel, just like Santa Clara County has done. Page 8Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Page 9Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Table of Contents i TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 Introduction ............................................................................................................... 1-1 What is the General Plan? ................................................................................ 1-1 User’s Guide ........................................................................................................ 1-2 General Plan Objectives and Themes ............................................................. 1-5 Implementing the General Plan........................................................................ 1-7 2 Planning Context ...................................................................................................... 2-1 Planning Area ...................................................................................................... 2-1 Geographic Setting ............................................................................................ 2-1 Socioeconomic Setting ...................................................................................... 2-4 The General Plan Update Process ................................................................... 2-6 3 Stronger Communities Element ............................................................................ 3-1 Environmental Justice ........................................................................................ 3-2 Community Health .............................................................................................. 3-7 Healthy Homes ................................................................................................. 3-16 Arts and Culture ................................................................................................ 3-19 Economic Empowerment ................................................................................ 3-21 Community Engagement ................................................................................. 3-29 Stronger Communities Element Performance Measures .......................... 3-32 Community Profiles .......................................................................................... 3-32 4 Land Use Element ................................................................................................... 4-1 Land Use Designations and Map .................................................................... 4-1 Orderly, Well-Planned Growth .......................................................................... 4-3 Specific Land Uses........................................................................................... 4-25 Land Use Element Performance Measures ................................................. 4-32 5 Transportation Element .......................................................................................... 5-1 Safe and Sustainable Transportation ............................................................. 5-2 Coordinated Planning ........................................................................................ 5-8 Multimodal Roadway Network ....................................................................... 5-11 Active Transportation ....................................................................................... 5-16 Goods Movement ............................................................................................. 5-21 Air Mobility ........................................................................................................ 5-24 Transportation Element Performance Measures ........................................ 5-27 6 Housing Element - This Element was adopted through a separate process 7 Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element ............................... 7-1 Open Space Framework ................................................................................... 7-2 Agricultural Resources and Working Lands ................................................... 7-4 Ecological Resources and Natural Systems ................................................ 7-12 Water Resources .............................................................................................. 7-21 Historic and Cultural Resources..................................................................... 7-30 Scenic Resources ............................................................................................. 7-36 Page 10Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 ii Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Table of Contents Mineral Resources ............................................................................................ 7-38 Energy Resources............................................................................................. 7-41 Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element Performance Measures ..................................................................................................... 7-46 8 Public Facilities and Services Element ................................................................. 8-1 General Public Facilities and Services ............................................................. 8-2 Water and Wastewater ...................................................................................... 8-8 Drainage and Flood Risk ................................................................................. 8-11 Sheriff, Fire, and Emergency Medical Service ............................................. 8-16 Solid Waste Management ............................................................................... 8-19 Parks and Recreation ....................................................................................... 8-23 Schools ............................................................................................................... 8-31 Libraries ............................................................................................................. 8-34 Public Facilities and Services Element Performance Measures ............... 8-35 9 Health and Safety Element .................................................................................... 9-1 Air Quality ............................................................................................................ 9-2 Greenhouse Gases ............................................................................................. 9-9 Climate Change, Resilience, and Adaptation ............................................... 9-11 Flood Hazards and Sea-Level Rise ............................................................... 9-13 Wildfire Hazards ................................................................................................ 9-28 Extreme Heat .................................................................................................... 9-35 Management of Hazardous Materials and Hazardous Waste .................. 9-37 Seismic and Geologic Hazards ...................................................................... 9-45 Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Evacuation Routes ................ 9-50 Noise and Vibration.......................................................................................... 9-57 Health and Safety Element Performance Measures .................................. 9-61 10 Growth Management Element ......................................................................... 10-1 Background ....................................................................................................... 10-1 Intent .................................................................................................................. 10-2 Authority ............................................................................................................ 10-2 Relationship to Other General Plan Elements ............................................. 10-2 11 Glossary ................................................................................................................ 11-1 Abbreviations .................................................................................................... 11-1 Terminology ...................................................................................................... 11-4 APPENDICES Appendix A – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme Appendix B – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix TABLES Table INT-1 State-Mandated and Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan Elements .............................................................1-4 Table LU-1 Land Use Designations ............................................................4-4 Table LU-2 Urban and Non-Urban Land Use Designations ................ 4-11 Table HS-1 Climate Change Hazards of Concern in Contra Costa County ...................................................................................... 9-12 Table HS-2 Typical A-Weighted Sound Levels ....................................... 9-57 Table HS-3 Maximum Allowable Noise Exposure by Land Use .......... 9-58 Table HS-4 Rail Vibration Screening Distances ...................................... 9-61 Page 11Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Table of Contents iii FIGURES Figure PC-1 Planning Jurisdictions ............................................................... 2-2 Figure SC-1 Impacted Communities ............................................................ 3-4 Figure SC-2 Asthma Rankings Relative to the State ................................. 3-8 Figure SC-3 Cardiovascular Disease Rankings Relative to the State ..... 3-9 Figure SC-4 Low Birth Weight Rankings Relative to the State ............ 3-10 Figure SC-5 Children’s Lead Risk from Housing Rankings Relative to the State ............................................................................. 3-17 Figure SC-6 Poverty Rankings Relative to the State .............................. 3-22 Figure SC-7 Adults without a High School Degree Rankings Relative to the State .............................................................. 3-23 Figure SC-8 Green Empowerment Zone and Priority Production Areas ........................................................................................ 3-26 Figure LU-1 General Plan Land Use Map ................................................... 4-9 Figure LU-2 Urban Limit Line .................................................................... 4-12 Figure LU-3 Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta ........................................... 4-22 Figure LU-4 Military Operations Areas ..................................................... 4-23 Figure LU-5 Rural and Agricultural Areas ................................................. 4-31 Figure TR-1 Passenger Rail and Ferry Services ......................................... 5-3 Figure TR-2 Routes of Regional Significance .......................................... 5-10 Figure TR-3 Roadway Classifications ........................................................ 5-13 Figure TR-4 Existing and Planned Bicycle Network ............................... 5-17 Figure TR-5 Pedestrian Priority Areas ...................................................... 5-18 Figure TR-6 Goods Movement Facilities .................................................. 5-22 Figure TR-7 Buchanan Field Airport and Byron Airport Compatibility Zones ....................................................................................... 5-26 Figure COS-1 Agricultural Land ........................................................................7-5 Figure COS-2 Prime Productive Agricultural Soils .........................................7-6 Figure COS-3 East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservation Plan/ Natural Community Conservation Plan Area ...................... 7-14 Figure COS-4 Priority Conservation Areas .................................................. 7-15 Figure COS-5 Watersheds, Waterbodies, Creeks, and Rivers .................. 7-18 Figure COS-6 Utility District Watershed Lands ........................................... 7-22 Figure COS-7 Impaired Waterbodies Rankings Relative to the State ..... 7-23 Figure COS-8 Groundwater Threat Rankings Relative to the State ........ 7-24 Figure COS-9 Groundwater Basins ............................................................... 7-26 Figure COS-10 Scenic Resources ................................................................... 7-37 Figure COS-11 Mineral Resource Areas ........................................................ 7-40 Figure COS-12 Wind and Solar Energy Resource Areas in Rural Areas ........................................................................................ 7-42 Figure PFS-1 Community Services for Impacted Communities .................8-5 Figure PFS-2 Water Service Districts..............................................................8-9 Figure PFS-3 Wastewater Service Districts ................................................ 8-10 Figure PFS-4 Levee Centerlines ................................................................... 8-13 Figure PFS-5 Fire Protection Districts ......................................................... 8-17 Figure PFS-6 Solid Waste Processing and Disposal Facilities ................ 8-20 Figure PFS-7 Federal, State, Regional, and Local Recreation Lands .... 8-25 Figure PFS-8 Trails Network ......................................................................... 8-26 Figure PFS-9 Public Park and Open Space Walkability For Urban Communities ........................................................................... 8-28 Figure PFS-10 Drive Times to Public Parks and Open Space for Suburban Communities ......................................................... 8-29 Page 12Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 iv Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Table of Contents Figure PFS-11 School Districts ...................................................................... 8-32 Figure HS-1 Diesel Particulate Matter Rankings Relative to the State ............................................................................................ 9-7 Figure HS-2 Flood Hazard Zones.............................................................. 9-14 Figure HS-3 Existing Development in Flood Zones ............................... 9-16 Figure HS-4 Dam Inundation Areas .......................................................... 9-17 Figure HS-5 Tsunami Hazard Areas .......................................................... 9-19 Figure HS-6 2050 Sea-Level Rise Projection ......................................... 9-22 Figure HS-7 2050 Sea-Level Rise Projection with Bayshore/ Delta Flooding ........................................................................ 9-23 Figure HS-8 2100 Sea-Level Rise Projection ......................................... 9-24 Figure HS-9 2100 Sea-Level Rise Projection with Bayshore/ Delta Flooding ........................................................................ 9-25 Figure HS-10 Fire Hazard Severity Zones .................................................. 9-29 Figure HS-11 Wildland-Urban Interface ...................................................... 9-30 Figure HS-12 Historic Wildfire Perimeters .................................................. 9-32 Figure HS-13 Temperature Forecast ........................................................... 9-36 Figure HS-14 Toxic Releases Rankings Relative to the State ................. 9-39 Figure HS-15 Hazardous Waste Generators and Facilities Rankings Relative to the State .............................................................. 9-40 Figure HS-16 Clean-Up Sites Rankings Relative to the State ................. 9-41 Figure HS-17 Earthquake Hazards .............................................................. 9-46 Figure HS-18 Liquefaction Susceptibility .................................................... 9-48 Figure HS-19 Landslide Hazards ................................................................. 9-49 Figure HS-20 Evacuation Routes ................................................................. 9-54 Figure HS-21 Single-Access Road Residential Areas ............................... 9-55 Figure HS-22 2045 Roadway Noise Contours .......................................... 9-59 Page 13Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Introduction 1 -1 1 INTRODUCTION WHAT IS THE GENERAL PLAN? The Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan is the County’s primary policy tool to guide physical changes in the unincorporated areas of the county. This General Plan looks over 20 years into the future and establishes a vision for development of our communities and stewardship of our natural environment. It is aspirational and long-range, but also practical, providing a useful, everyday guide for community planning. Legal Authority California law requires every county and city in the state to adopt a general plan “for the physical development of the county or city, and of any land outside its boundaries which in the planning agency’s judgement bears relation to its planning.” Decades ago, local general plans were viewed as a set of broad policies that had small roles in development decisions. However, changes in State law since the original statutes were adopted in the 1950s have vastly increased the importance and authority of general plans. Each jurisdiction's general plan acts as its “charter” or “constitution” governing development. State law requires local governments to implement their general plan once it has been adopted. A general plan provides a comprehensive, long-range statement of the jurisdiction’s land use policies for the coming decades. It must respond to existing conditions, anticipate emerging trends that will shape the community of tomorrow, and provide flexibility for balancing necessarily competing goals and policies. General plans typically have four defining features: • Comprehensive. A general plan covers a wide range of planning-related topics such as land use, housing, economic development, environmental justice, sustainability and resiliency, transportation and mobility, public health and safety, recreation, and natural resources. • General. A general plan does not attempt to address every topic in detail; instead, it provides high-level policy guidance that will be used to direct future decisions. • Long-Range and Aspirational. A community’s general plan articulates a vision for how it will develop, normally over a timeframe of approximately 20 years. This General Plan references numerous public agencies, geographic areas, and political boundaries, which often share a common name. For example, the proper noun “Contra Costa County” can refer to either the public agency led by the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors, or the geographic area defined by Contra Costa County’s borders. To avoid confusion, this General Plan uses capital letters when referencing public agencies and lowercase letters when referencing political boundaries or geographic areas. Thus, “the County” (capitalized “C”) means the governing body of Contra Costa County, while “the county” (lowercase “c”) means the territory within Contra Costa County’s borders. In instances where complete proper nouns are used, the meaning should be discernible from the context. Page 14Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 1 -2 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Introduction • Internally Consistent and Compatible. While addressing a wide range of topics, the goals, policies, and actions in a general plan nevertheless establish a unified and coherent framework for decision-making. Together with specific plans adopted for various communities, the Zoning Code and related sections of the County Ordinance Code, Climate Action Plan, and Objective Design Standards, the County’s General Plan serves as the basis for planning- and infrastructure-related decisions made by County staff, the County Planning Commission and other County commissions and committees, and the Board of Supervisors. USER’S GUIDE The Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan is for all members of the community and anyone interested in the future of the county. It was crafted with a constant eye toward keeping it useful as time passes, implementable, and easy to understand. The graphic on the following page explains the individual components found on a typical page of the Plan that provides policy guidance. Words, Phrasing, and Interpretation Great care was taken to ensure that this General Plan is relatable and easy to understand. Terms of art, jargon, and unnecessarily technical or abstract language have been avoided whenever possible. Unless context dictates otherwise, all words and phrases herein should be interpreted consistently with their most common usage and meaning. The goals, policies, and actions in this General Plan include verbs, usually at or near the beginning, that provide direction and express varying degrees of obligation or applicability. Words such as “require,” “prohibit,” “approve,” and “deny” indicate mandatory directives. “Encourage,” “discourage,” “consider,” “should,” “may,” and similar words provide less rigid direction. The flexibility inherent to such words must not be misinterpreted though; the guidance they provide must be followed absent compelling, conflicting considerations. While every effort has been made to provide clear and comprehensive policy direction through this General Plan’s text and graphics, unique or unusual situations will necessitate interpretation from time to time. The Department of Conservation and Development Director is ultimately responsible for interpreting this document, their decisions being appealable to the Board of Supervisors as provided in Title 1 of the County Ordinance Code. Overview of the Elements State law requires that general plans contain eight mandatory chapters, or “elements.” The State allows considerable flexibility in how these elements are organized. They can be combined, split up, renamed, or otherwise modified so long as the required content is present. The State also allows for inclusion of any number of optional elements to address issues of local importance. All elements, mandatory or optional, have the same legal standing once adopted. No single element supersedes any other, and all elements must be internally consistent (i.e., the goals, policies, actions, maps, and diagrams must be in harmony with one another across topic areas and not conflict). Table INT-1 lists the State-mandated elements and their counterparts in the Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan, as well as two optional elements that the community considers fundamental to maintaining the quality of life in the county. This General Plan addresses all topics required by State law, with their organization tailored to the local context. Page 15Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 How to Use the General Plan 9 -8 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Goal HS-2 Policies HS-P2.1 When evaluating health risk impacts of projects in Impacted Communities, use an excess cancer risk of 6.0 per million and a non-cancer (acute and chronic) hazard index greater than 1.0 as thresholds for finding that the project could cause a cumulatively considerable contribution and a significant impact.* HS-P2.2 Increase the tree canopy on public property, especially in Impacted Communities and areas with a high heat index, by prioritizing funding for new street tree planting and maintenance. HS-P2.3 Support protection, restoration, and enhancement of natural landscapes in and near Impacted Communities to improve air quality and community health. Actions HS-A2.1 Partner with community members and regulatory agencies to prepare a community-scale plan for reducing and mitigating air pollutant emissions and industrial hazards, such as pipeline risks, accidents, potential water or soil contamination, and impacts to sensitive ecological resources for each Impacted Community, or group of Impacted Communities, as appropriate. Require future projects to demonstrate consistency with those plans. HS-A2.2 Coordinate with community members, BAAQMD, and other regulatory agencies to facilitate AB 617 citizen-led programs, including data collection, monitoring of pollution exposure, and identification and implementation of solutions in Impacted Communities. Consider future General Plan and Zoning Code amendments as needed to support BAAQMD in meeting AB 617 objectives. HS-A2.3 Conduct a housing condition survey in Impacted Communities to identify units likely requiring upgrades to provide adequate protection from toxic releases. Based on the survey’s findings, target outreach to provide information about weatherization and similar improvement programs. HS-A2.4 Coordinate with BAAQMD to determine where to focus a targeted permit inspection program in Impacted Communities to help ensure enforcement of air quality permits. Goal HS-2 Healthy air quality for all communities, so no community bears the disproportionate burden of environmental hazards and health risks. Action: A measure, procedure, or activity that helps the County achieve a specific goal. An action is something concrete that can and will be completed. Action Numbering: The action number is shown as the last number, supporting the goal it follows (e.g., HS-A2.4 = Health and Safety Element, second goal, fourth action). Action numbers are not tied to policy numbers. Section Footer: Identifies the Element title. Page Numbering: Shows the chapter and page number (e.g., 9-8 = Chapter 9, page 8). Asterisks identify policies and actions that mitigate potential environmental impacts, as described in the General Plan Environmental Impact Report. Goal: An end statement describing the general result sought by the community. Each goal has associated policies and most also have associated actions. Goal Numbering: Each goal number starts with the element acronym and is followed by the number of the goal (e.g., HS-2 = Health and Safety Element, second goal). Policy: A specific statement that guides decision- making as the County works to achieve a goal. Policies represent statements of County regulation and establish the standards used when considering proposed development and other decisions. A policy is ongoing and requires no corresponding action. Policy Numbering: The policy number is shown as the last number, supporting the goal it follows (e.g., HS-P2.1 = Health and Safety Element, second goal, first policy). Policy numbers are not tied to action numbers. Page 16Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 1 -4 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Introduction TABLE INT-1 STATE-MANDATED AND CONTRA COSTA COUNTY 2045 GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS State-Mandated Element Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan Element Land Use Land Use Circulation Transportation Housing Housing Conservation Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Open Space Safety Health and Safety Noise Environmental Justice Stronger Communities Also incorporated throughout all other Elements Optional Elements Any element addressing a locally relevant topic relating to the jurisdiction’s physical development Public Facilities and Services Growth Management Each Element of this General Plan includes background information that provides context for the goals, policies, and actions that follow. The background information often includes maps, diagrams, and other graphic components to illustrate key data and concepts. In addition to the background information and goals, policies, and actions that are included in each Element, the Stronger Communities Element contains 22 Community Profiles, which provide community-specific guidance that speaks to the unique needs of individual communities. Community members discuss their vision for the future of Crockett. Goals, Policies, and Actions The Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan is built around goals, policies, and actions that must be implemented to achieve the community’s vision for the future. Goals, policies, and actions are found in every Element. Placement of a goal, policy, or action in a specific Element does not limit its scope to only that Element’s topic. For example, a policy in the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element can apply to topics beyond the realm of conservation, open space, and working lands. There also is not a one-to-one correspondence between policies and actions. An individual action can implement more than one policy and contribute to achieving multiple goals across different Elements. Page 17Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Introduction 1 -5 Other Components of the Plan A Glossary and List of Abbreviations are provided for reference (Chapter 11). The Appendices include a compilation of the policies and actions that relate to each of the four themes described in the next section (Appendix A), as well as a technical appendix to provide additional detail on health and safety topics (Appendix B). While not contained within the General Plan, an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the General Plan has been prepared pursuant to the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The EIR evaluates the effects of the General Plan’s policy guidance on Contra Costa County’s environment and includes mitigation measures to lessen the General Plan’s potential environmental impacts when possible. Policies and actions that mitigate potential impacts are identified in this General Plan with an asterisk. The EIR also identifies impacts that cannot be mitigated to acceptable levels (i.e., significant and unavoidable impacts) and areas where more detailed environmental analysis may be required as specific projects are proposed in the future. GENERAL PLAN OBJECTIVES AND THEMES The Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan replaces the previous General Plan adopted in January 1991. While the 1991 General Plan was refreshed in 1996 and 2005, it remained rooted in planning concepts from the 1980s and earlier. The overarching objective of this comprehensive General Plan update has been the creation of a modern, visionary, and nimble policy document designed to address the opportunities and challenges of the 21st century. Because the county spans a wide geography with diverse communities that have different visions, goals, and opportunities for growth, another important objective was to plan at a community scale, rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all policy approach throughout the county. Sunrise over Mount Diablo. (Credit: Hao Li) When it decided to update the General Plan, the Board of Supervisors directed County staff to incorporate four themes: environmental justice, community health, economic development, and sustainability. These themes are interrelated and woven throughout this General Plan. Policies and actions that relate to each theme are marked with a corresponding icon, as shown below and in the User’s Guide above. • Environmental Justice. Environmental justice policies and actions intend to reduce the unique or compounded health risks in communities that experience the highest levels of pollution and negative health outcomes, such as asthma and low birth weight babies, and the greatest social and economic disadvantages, such as poverty and housing instability. This General Plan refers to these areas as ”Impacted Communities” and focuses on improving environmental Page 18Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 1 -6 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Introduction justice for the people living there by promoting meaningful community engagement and prioritizing improvements that address their needs. Environmental justice is a new topic that was not discussed in the prior General Plan. State law now requires that general plans address environmental justice and it is a matter of great concern to many county residents. While this topic is addressed throughout the General Plan, the Stronger Communities Element provides detailed information about Impacted Communities and environmental justice. • Community Health. The physical and mental health of community members is inextricably linked to where and how communities are developed. Therefore, the community health policies and actions guide planning and development decisions to provide opportunities for community members to live healthy lifestyles, including by improving peoples’ ability to walk or bike between destinations, providing multi- modal transportation connections, creating opportunities for social interaction, and promoting access to outdoor recreation, healthy food, and medical facilities. The community health policy guidance additionally aims to reduce exposure of all community members to pollutants that can adversely affect their health. • Economic Development. The economic development policies and actions aim to develop the county’s workforce and attract and support sustainable businesses and industries that provide living-wage jobs, invest in hiring from the local workforce, and engage with communities. Investment in diversified industries, as supported in the economic development policy guidance, promotes innovation, builds the tax base, and allows residents to work in the county where they live. • Sustainability. Sustainability means meeting the needs of today’s population while leaving viable resources to meet the needs of future generations. One important part of a sustainable future is resiliency, which is the ability to withstand, recover, and learn from a disruptive experience, such as a wildfire, flood, or pandemic. The sustainability policies and actions aim to conserve resources, improve resiliency (especially to the impacts of climate change), protect the environment, reduce pollution, and enhance overall quality of life. Community farms promote access to healthy food, supporting environmental justice and community health goals. Page 19Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Introduction 1 -7 IMPLEMENTING THE GENERAL PLAN Long-range planning in Contra Costa County does not end with adoption of the General Plan. To achieve the community’s vision and objectives, decisions about development projects, capital improvements, County programs and services, and other issues related to the physical environment must be consistent with the General Plan’s policies. In addition, the implementing actions identified throughout the Plan must be carried out. Finally, the County needs to monitor progress in achieving the major goals of the Plan, periodically adjusting policy guidance as needed to advance those goals in response to contextual changes that may occur over the next 20 years. County Decision-Making Structure Decisions on matters addressed in this General Plan occur at various levels of County government. • The Board of Supervisors is Contra Costa County’s legislative body. The Board consists of five members, each representing a geographically- defined supervisorial district. Among its many responsibilities, the Board adopts the County’s annual budget, adopts General Plan amendments and rezonings, acts on appeals of County Planning Commission decisions, and authorizes construction of capital projects. • The County Planning Commission (CPC) consists of seven residents appointed by the Board of Supervisors. The CPC’s responsibilities include making recommendations to the Board on General Plan amendments and rezonings, hearing and deciding on development applications for projects generating 100 or more peak hour vehicular trips, and acting on appeals of County Zoning Administrator decisions. The CPC also acts on applications referred by the Zoning Administrator. • The Contra Costa County Planning Director is the County Zoning Administrator. The Zoning Administrator and their appointed Deputy Zoning Administrators render decisions on most development applications (i.e., projects generating fewer than 100 peak hour vehicular trips, certain subdivisions, land use permits, development plans, variances, sign permits, lot line adjustments, etc.). • Department of Conservation and Development (DCD) staff is responsible for day-to-day implementation of the General Plan, Zoning Code, and other County planning documents. DCD staff reviews development applications for compliance with County planning policies and regulations, conducts environmental reviews, and makes recommendations to decision-makers on planning matters. Relationship of the General Plan to Other County Planning Documents This General Plan establishes a vision and framework for land use planning and environmental stewardship in unincorporated Contra Costa County. To facilitate General Plan implementation, the Board of Supervisors has adopted additional documents regulating planning and development. • Specific Plans focus on smaller geographic areas than general plans and address topics such as land use distribution, infrastructure, development standards (e.g., building heights and setbacks, parking ratios, and landscaping requirements), financing, and plan implementation in detail. The County has adopted specific plans for all or part of Alhambra Valley, Bay Point, Contra Costa Centre, El Sobrante, Montalvin Manor, North Richmond, Northgate, Rodeo, and Shell Ridge. • Development activities in the unincorporated county are regulated primarily through four titles of the County Ordinance Code: Title 7 – Page 20Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 1 -8 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Introduction Building Regulations, Title 8 – Zoning, Title 9 – Subdivisions, and Title 10 – Public Works and Flood Control. These precise regulations address building construction, land uses, development standards, and design and construction of public improvements in greater detail than the General Plan. • Objective Design Standards (ODS) facilitate expedited review of qualifying multiple-family residential and mixed-use development projects. The ODS address site design and layout, architecture, building massing, materials, lighting, and landscaping. • The Climate Action Plan (CAP) implements the General Plan’s policy guidance to adapt to changing climate conditions and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The CAP addresses behaviors, regulations, and investment decisions that directly reduce GHG emissions or promote climate resilience and lays out an implementation and monitoring program to ensure that the County reduces GHG emissions consistent with State emissions reduction targets. State law requires consistency between the General Plan and its subordinate implementing documents. Therefore, when the General Plan is amended, the County must review its other planning documents and amend them as necessary to maintain consistency with the General Plan. Pursuant to State law, wherever a conflict or inconsistency exists between the General Plan and its subordinate documents, the General Plan controls and shall be followed. General Plan Action Program The General Plan Action Program is the mechanism to track implementation of the General Plan’s actions through 2045. The Action Program contains all actions from the General Plan, organized by Element, and provides important details for how each action will be implemented, including: • The goal that the action implements. • County departments and partner agencies and organizations with primary and supporting responsibility to execute the action. • The timeframe for achieving the action. • General cost range estimates associated with implementing the action. The Contra Costa County DCD is responsible for maintaining the Action Program and tracking implementation progress. The Action Program is maintained as an accompanying document to the General Plan so that it can be regularly updated as actions are accomplished without the need for a formal General Plan amendment. As with other County policy documents, implementation of the actions is subject to the resources that the County and its partners have to carry them out and need to remain consistent with the County’s long-term financial plans, as reflected in its annual budget. Tracking Progress Every five years over the lifetime of the General Plan, the County will track progress in achieving its major goals through a review of the performance measures listed at the end of each General Plan Element. Based on these reviews, the County will consider whether changes are needed to the policy framework or implementation approach to improve performance. The County will present this five-year review in a clear, concise report to the CPC and Board of Supervisors and post the report on the County’s website. Amending the General Plan The General Plan is not a static document; it is intended to be as dynamic as needed by the Contra Costa County community. Over time, the County will Page 21Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Introduction 1 -9 amend portions of the General Plan in response to new legislation, evolving community priorities and values, changes in the county’s physical or economic conditions, and proposed development. It is also inevitable that refinements will be necessary to improve progress towards achieving the major goals of the General Plan. General Plan amendments (GPAs) can be initiated by the County or requested by private entities. When the County receives a request for a GPA from a private entity, staff will forward the request to the Board of Supervisors with a recommendation on whether to consider the request further. If the Board authorizes the GPA process to proceed, staff will collect the required application materials and fees and prepare an environmental evaluation of the proposal as required under CEQA. After the environmental documentation is prepared, staff will submit a report to the CPC. The report will include an analysis of the request, a recommendation to approve or deny, and findings to support the recommendation. The CPC will then conduct a public hearing and forward a recommendation to the Board of Supervisors, which will conduct another hearing and render a decision. The process is similar for County-initiated GPAs. To amend the General Plan, the Board of Supervisors must determine that the proposed GPA satisfies the following findings: (a) That adoption of the proposed General Plan amendment is in the public interest, as required under Government Code Section 65359(a). (b) That adoption of the proposed General Plan amendment will not exceed the annual limit on General Plan amendments specified in Government Code Section 65358(b). (c) That upon adoption of the proposed General Plan amendment, the General Plan will remain internally consistent and compatible, as required under Government Code Section 65300.5(a). (d) That adoption of the proposed General Plan amendment will not violate the provisions of the 65/35 Land Preservation Standard or Urban Limit Line, as outlined in Measure L-2006. (e) That adoption of the proposed General Plan amendment is compliant with the provisions of Measure J-2004, the Contra Costa Growth Management Program, and related Contra Costa Transportation Authority resolutions. (f) That adoption of the proposed General Plan amendment will not impede attainment of the County’s goals related to environmental justice, community health, economic development, and sustainability. If these findings can be satisfied, then the Board will adopt a resolution approving the GPA. Page 22Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 1 -10 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Introduction This page intentionally left blank. Page 23Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Planning Context 2 -1 2 PLANNING CONTEXT PLANNING AREA Contra Costa County encompasses 806 square miles, approximately 716 of which are land. About 40 percent of this area is under the planning jurisdiction of 19 incorporated cities and towns. The remainder, which is under the County’s planning jurisdiction, is diverse and ranges from small agricultural communities like Byron in the county’s southeast corner, with a quiet downtown and fewer than 1,200 residents, to Contra Costa Centre, a bustling mixed-use transit village with a population density of 8,400 people per square mile. The landscape of Contra Costa County is governed and managed by a variety of agencies. The 19 incorporated cities and towns control land use and various other activities within their city/town limits. The County controls land use and development in the unincorporated areas outside of those city/town limits. Each city or town has a “sphere of influence” (SOI) that extends beyond the city/town limits and delineates unincorporated areas that the city or town may annex in the future. Once annexed, those areas become part of the incorporated city or town and are no longer regulated by this General Plan. Figure PC-1 displays the planning area boundaries in the county. Other agencies that regulate and manage land, resources, facilities, and activities in the county include various elements of the federal and California governments and many different types of special districts, such as transit, school, park, utility, and fire districts. The jurisdictional areas of these agencies overlap with the incorporated areas governed by cities and towns and the unincorporated areas governed by the County. Rolling hills span large portions of Contra Costa County’s vast landscape. (Community- submitted photo) GEOGRAPHIC SETTING Contra Costa County is in the East Bay region of the San Francisco Bay Area. The county directly abuts San Francisco, San Pablo, and Suisun Bays; the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta; and Alameda and San Joaquin Counties. Beyond the Bays and Delta are the counties of San Francisco, Marin, Napa, Solano, and Sacramento. Page 24Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 2 -2 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Planning Context FIGURE PC-1 PLANNING JURISDICTIONS Page 25Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County General Plan 2045 – Planning Context 2 -3 There is a long history of people living in what is now Contra Costa County and using the land for a variety of purposes. Members of the Bay Miwok, Northern Valley Yokuts, and Ohlone Tribes were the first inhabitants (the county’s native people are further discussed in the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element). Spanish colonization of what is now California began in 1769 (Contra Costa County’s name is Spanish for “opposite coast” because of its location across from San Francisco). Spain controlled the area until Mexico won its independence in 1821. Under Mexican rule, much of the county was divided amongst 15 land grants, or ranchos. Acalanes, Pacheco, El Sobrante, and many other locations in the county derive their names from the ranchos or their owners. The county, along with the rest of California, was ceded to the United States in 1848 following the Mexican-American War. Contra Costa County was established in 1850 as one of California’s original 27 counties, with Martinez as the county seat. Fewer than 5,000 people lived in the county at the time. The current physical form and character of the county has largely been defined by the pattern of urban development sparked by rapid industrialization during World War II and the economic expansion and diversification that followed. • West County was the first area to develop with urban and industrial uses. Several cities and unincorporated communities existed in the area prior to World War II, but they were relatively small (Richmond, by far the largest city in the county at the time, had a population of 23,093 in the 1940 Census). However, West County became a hub of industrial activity during the war (Kaiser Shipyards in Richmond produced nearly 750 ships, more than any other shipyard complex in the country), leading to fast and extensive urbanization. By 1950, Richmond’s population approached 100,000. • Central County experienced a wave of suburbanization during the prosperous post-World War II economy of the 1950s and 1960s. Rural agricultural communities were transformed into cities as middle- and upper-class residents, most of whom were White, were provided the opportunity to live in newly constructed housing tracts and commute via the expanding freeway network. Construction of the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system in the 1960s and 1970s enhanced the area’s desirability and facilitated additional development. Portions of Pleasant Hill and Concord in the late 1950s, including Interstate 680, which was under construction, and new subdivisions adjacent to the agriculture that existed at the time. (Credit: Contra Costa Historical Society) • The suburban development pattern began extending into the agricultural landscape of East County in the 1980s. Small cities such as Brentwood grew rapidly, and a new city, Oakley, was incorporated in 1999. Residents were attracted to East County by lower housing costs Page 26Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 2 -4 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Planning Context and scenic open spaces, as well as the extension of BART to the Pittsburg/Bay Point Station in 1996. SOCIOECONOMIC SETTING Demographic Characteristics Nearly 1.2 million people live in Contra Costa County. Approximately 175,000 reside in the unincorporated county, making it the most populous of Contra Costa County’s 20 planning jurisdictions. Most of the county’s population is consolidated along the major transportation corridors, including Interstates 80 and 680, State Routes 4 and 24, and the BART lines. Most job opportunities are within those same population centers, the majority of which are incorporated, though there are almost 40,000 jobs within the unincorporated county. The median age of Contra Costa County residents is 40 years old. The population has been steadily aging since 1970, when the median age was about 28 years old. Since 2010, the fastest-growing age group has been seniors 65 and older as the Baby Boomer generation ages. The second- fastest growth occurred in the 55 to 64 age group, which includes younger Baby Boomers and older members of Generation X. In the unincorporated county, the majority of residents fall within the 45-64 and 5-19 age brackets. The youngest unincorporated communities are Bay Point and North Richmond, with respective median ages of 32 and 34, while the oldest unincorporated communities are Alamo and Diablo, where the median age is 51 and 56, respectively. The median household income for a family of four in Contra Costa County is almost $154,000. Median household incomes vary significantly across communities. The median household income for a family of four in North Richmond is under $60,000, while median incomes for a family of four in Alamo and Diablo are over $250,000. Overall, approximately 40 percent of Contra Costa County residents are non- Hispanic White, 9.5 percent are Black or African American, 27 percent are Hispanic or Latino, 20 percent are Asian, and 3.5 percent are Native American, Pacific Islander, or other races. The racial and ethnic makeup of communities also varies across the county, ranging from North Richmond, where 95 percent of residents are people of color, to Diablo, where 5 percent of residents are people of color. Relationship Between Land Use Practices and Socioeconomic Outcomes Land use practices across much of the United States are rooted in a legacy of discrimination. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, large American cities, including New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Boston, began experimenting with regulations similar to modern zoning. Laws were enacted to address overcrowding, the negative impacts of industrialization, and development of substantially taller buildings made possible by new technologies and construction methods. In 1916 New York adopted the first American zoning ordinance. These early planning regulations and policies aimed to improve public health, but typically had racist or classist underpinnings as well. Those responsible for shaping these policies often sought to maintain, and in many cases create, segregated communities. Racially-motivated zoning plans kept communities of color in the inner city near industrial and other polluting land uses, particularly during the Great Migration when Black people were moving from rural communities in the South to larger cities in the North and West. White families, meanwhile, were encouraged to move toward urban outskirts and newly-constructed suburbs, away from the harmful aspects of city life. Page 27Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County General Plan 2045 – Planning Context 2 -5 These discriminatory zoning practices were initially deemed unconstitutional in Buchanan v. Warley, a landmark Supreme Court case from 1917, but they continued to be enforced and shaped the future of racially discriminatory housing policies. Harland Bartholomew, the first urban planner employed full-time by a major American city, stated that a goal of St. Louis’ 1919 zoning plan was to, “preserve the more desirable residential neighborhoods” and prevent movement into “finer residential districts…by colored people.” In 1926 another landmark Supreme Court case, Euclid v. Ambler, established that zoning itself is constitutional. This prompted zoning, and its ability to segregate communities, to spread rapidly throughout the country. This 1937 map illustrates the redlining of San Francisco based on Home Owners’ Loan Corporation data. (Credit: University of Richmond Mapping Inequities Project) Redlining, a practice that emerged in the 1930s, further perpetuated community segregation as it hindered the ability for people of color to obtain real estate loans. The Home Owners’ Loan Corporation, established in 1933 as part of the New Deal, created maps to inform the risk level of a loan in a given area. Surveyors delineated and rated neighborhoods in numerous metropolitan areas; those with the lowest rating were outlined in red (hence the term “redlining”). These ratings were often based on the racial makeup of the neighborhood, with communities of color regularly ranking lowest. This practice denied people of color access to financial resources and associated opportunities, leading to disinvestment, low homeownership rates, and decreased property values. New Deal-era investments in the 1930s followed these trend lines by focusing investments in White neighborhoods. New forms of housing-related discrimination appeared in the 1940s and 1950s. World War II veterans were entitled to benefits provided through the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944, also known as the G.I. Bill, which among other things included access to low-cost mortgages and money to attend college. However, while these opportunities ostensibly were available to all who had served, they overwhelmingly benefited White veterans and facilitated “White flight” from cities to suburbs. Meanwhile, public infrastructure and redevelopment projects often displaced communities of color that remained in urban areas. Continuing through the 1950s and into the 1960s, urban renewal policies sought to eliminate blight by razing and reconstructing large sections of cities, dislocating residents and often destroying the fabric of minority communities in the process. In the 1960s, legislation such as the Fair Housing Act and Civil Rights Act aimed to challenge exclusionary zoning and discrimination in housing. These laws prohibited discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, familial status, and age, and created a duty within all levels of government to promote fair housing and overcome segregation. Despite these efforts, the effects of exclusionary zoning practices and discriminatory housing policies still contribute to wealth disparities. Home ownership has been one of the most effective means of building family wealth in America. Page 28Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 2 -6 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Planning Context Communities of color who were denied home ownership opportunities have not been able to build equity and wealth as effectively as others. In Contra Costa County, this wealth disparity is evident through demographic data showing that many of the unincorporated communities with low median household incomes also have a high proportion of residents that are Black, Asian, or Latino. State data also indicates that the same communities suffer from higher rates of health conditions like asthma and cardiovascular disease. Proximity to pollution, lack of access to adequate healthcare, and public and private disinvestment have all contributed to these conditions. In 2022, the County established the Office of Racial Equity and Social Justice to address local racial inequality and social injustice issues. This General Plan aligns with that mission by confronting over 100 years of discriminatory planning practices in our country, explicitly working to eliminate wealth and health disparities and progressively improve quality of life and health outcomes in communities of color. THE GENERAL PLAN UPDATE PROCESS The physical and socioeconomic settings of Contra Costa County are important in shaping the General Plan. Equally important are the voices of the people who shared their needs and ideas and helped the County articulate a vision for the future. The process to update the General Plan began in December 2017 when the Board of Supervisors directed the Department of Conservation and Development (DCD) to oversee updates to the General Plan and Zoning Code, which itself had never been comprehensively overhauled since its original adoption in 1947. The Board subsequently directed DCD to concurrently update the County’s 2015 Climate Action Plan. Substantive work on the updates began in September 2018, with public outreach kicking off in February 2019. Over the next four years, the County held or participated in over 125 public and community-organized meetings with residents, community advocates, stakeholders, and public officials, including: • Meetings of the Board of Supervisors, Planning Commission, Sustainability Commission, Library Commission, Hazardous Materials Commission, Arts and Culture Commission, Sustainability Committee, Historic Landmarks Advisory Committee, Aviation Advisory Committee, and all 13 Municipal Advisory Councils. • Almost 50 community meetings, workshops, and open houses held across the county. • Stakeholder meetings on environmental justice, community health, sustainability, and economic development. • Native American tribal consultations. • Over 20 meetings with various community-based organizations representing a wide range of interests in the county. In addition, throughout the process the Envision Contra Costa website provided information about upcoming meetings, access to draft documents, and online tools that community members used to share their thoughts. The online tools were especially important during the COVID-19 pandemic, as they allowed community members to remain engaged and even attend meetings virtually. Input and direction from the public and County officials were incorporated into each component of the General Plan. The first phase of the process included research and documentation of baseline conditions in Contra Costa County. This effort resulted in an online Briefing Book that established a shared understanding of important characteristics of the county, and highlighted assets to build from and challenges to address as the General Plan was updated. Page 29Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County General Plan 2045 – Planning Context 2 -7 The Briefing Book was used during the initial phase of community outreach, which focused on individual unincorporated communities, to support conversations about community-specific challenges and opportunities. Input from this phase formed the basis for preparation of draft Community Profiles that provide a description of the community and its unique context and present a policy framework for a desired future. For communities with a robust set of concerns to address, the County held subsequent rounds of community meetings to present the draft Profiles for feedback and discussion, working to ensure the vision and policy guidance reflect each community’s values and hopes. Community members in North Richmond shared their concerns and ideas for the North Richmond Community Profile and the countywide environmental justice policy guidance. This phase of outreach and engagement also supported preparation of goals, policies, and actions to address environmental justice throughout the county. While many issues raised during the community meetings were specific to a community and required community-specific policy guidance, as provided in the Community Profiles, some issues were common across communities, and lent themselves to the countywide policy framework. The County held three to four meetings in each community that is most impacted by environmental justice issues (i.e., Impacted Communities, which are defined and discussed in the Stronger Communities Element) to identify and understand the issues and consider policy approaches. These meetings were supplemented by two collaboration meetings with environmental justice stakeholders and about 15 meetings with community-based organizations who work with Impacted Communities to identify Impacted Communities, key environmental justice issues, and appropriate policy approaches. In addition, a three-part meeting series with environmental justice stakeholders was held to review and refine draft policy guidance, and several meetings were scheduled with the Board of Supervisors Sustainability Committee and the County’s Sustainability Commission and Hazardous Materials Commission to discuss draft policy guidance. The County also conducted a hard copy and online survey to solicit feedback on draft environmental justice policy guidance, working with community partners to distribute hard copies at strategic locations to reach people during the COVID-19 pandemic, including at schools, libraries, farmers markets, food banks, and soup kitchens. Following refinement of the Community Profiles and preparation of draft environmental justice policy guidance, the County prepared draft goals, policies, and actions for all remaining topics that apply throughout the unincorporated area. The countywide policy framework is based on a combination of guidance from the 1991 General Plan, input from community members and decision-makers throughout the process, State and local laws, and best practices in the planning field. The County Planning Commission and other commissions and committees reviewed the draft policy guidance during study sessions in the first half of 2022, and an online survey was distributed to community members to gain additional feedback. Page 30Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 2 -8 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Planning Context During the second half of 2022 and into 2023, the County refined the countywide goals, policies, and actions and prepared the remaining components of the General Plan (e.g., maps, context, and glossary). The entire draft General Plan, along with the draft Climate Action Plan and draft Environmental Impact Report, were released for public review in Fall 2023. Page 31Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -1 3 STRONGER COMMUNITIES ELEMENT A county is only as strong and healthy as its people. We all want the future to be safe, healthy, equitable, and sustainable for everyone, but these ideals may look different to individual people and communities. Most of the people in Contra Costa County live and work in incorporated cities and towns, but there are also a multitude of vibrant unincorporated communities that each contribute to a rich history and ongoing culture and identity of the people in the county. This Stronger Communities Element aims for all of us to feel safe in our homes and neighborhoods; have access to healthy food, the outdoors, living wage jobs, and healthcare; have opportunities for self-expression through art and cultural celebration; benefit from business innovation and investment; and strengthen bonds with other community members. The focus of this Element is on promoting community resiliency and fostering a spirit of collaboration and opportunities for positive collective impact. This Element presents policy guidance that applies to unincorporated communities throughout the county, followed by Community Profiles that address issues unique to each community. It is organized into eight sections that highlight the priorities of the broad Contra Costa County community: • The Environmental Justice section includes policy guidance that works to counteract a history of discrimination, neglect, and disempowerment and improve the quality of life and health outcomes in low-income communities and communities of color. • The Community Health section includes policy guidance to support the physical and mental health of community members through improvements to the built environment and by providing services to bolster social support networks and promote physical wellbeing. • The Healthy Homes section includes policy guidance aimed at providing safe and sanitary housing conditions for all residents. • The Arts and Culture section includes policy guidance to promote civic art and cultural events that are accessible to every resident, celebrate the unique identity of individual communities, and strengthen the local economy. • The Economic Empowerment section includes policy guidance to develop and maintain a workforce that possesses the education and skills employers need, promote living wage job opportunities, and cultivate a thriving economy that contributes to the region’s economic health. • The Community Engagement section includes policy guidance to promote community involvement and ensure diverse viewpoints and values are represented in the decision-making process. • The Stronger Communities Element Performance Measures describe how the County will track its progress in achieving some of the major objectives expressed in this Element. Page 32Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 3 -2 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element • The Community Profiles provide community-specific contextual information and policy guidance for individual communities to address their unique needs. This General Plan highlights policies and actions that address four major themes that serve as a framework for the Plan. For the reader’s ease, policies and actions related to these themes are identified throughout the General Plan using the following icons. The policies and actions related to each theme are also compiled in Appendix A. See Chapter 1 for more information about each theme. Community Health Environmental Justice Economic Development Sustainability Community gardens provide access to fresh produce and can serve as focal points for communities. ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE Throughout California, low-income communities and communities of color have experienced a combination of historical discrimination, neglect, and political and economic disempowerment. The result is that today they are impacted with a disproportionate burden of pollution and associated health conditions, as well as disproportionate social and economic disadvantages such as poverty or housing instability. Many low-income households and communities of color in Contra Costa County are concentrated in neighborhoods where they continue to face significant threats to their overall health and livelihood. In 2022, in response to these and other related concerns, the County established the Office of Racial Equity and Social Justice to address local racial inequality and social injustice issues. The Office of Racial Equity and Social Justice is envisioned to enact and sustain principles, policies, practices, and investments that are racially just and equitable across all the County’s departments and divisions. California Senate Bill (SB) 1000, enacted in 2016, requires that general plans address environmental justice and respond to inequity by alleviating pollution and health impacts and compelling cities and counties to include the voices of previously marginalized residents in planning decisions. Community members across Contra Costa County have confirmed the need to prioritize these strategies. Page 33Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -3 Figure SC-1 shows unincorporated communities in Contra Costa County that are disproportionately burdened by pollution or face disproportionate social or health vulnerabilities. These are called “Impacted Communities” throughout this General Plan. These areas were mapped using the California Communities Environmental Health Screening Tool (CalEnviroScreen), a tool advocated by community groups and developed by the State Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment on behalf of the California Environmental Protection Agency. CalEnviroScreen measures pollution and population characteristics using 21 indicators, such as air quality, hazardous waste sites, asthma rates, and poverty. It applies a formula to each census tract in the state to generate a score that ranks the level of cumulative impacts relative to the rest of the census tracts in the state. A census tract with a higher score is one that experiences higher pollution burdens and social or health vulnerabilities than census tracts with lower scores. The Impacted Communities shown in Figure SC-1 include census tracts with a cumulative score of 72 percent or higher. The CalEnviroScreen data is updated about every five years, so the Impacted Communities mapped in this General Plan may change over time. Accordingly, this General Plan includes policy guidance (see SC-A1.7) to regularly update the map of Impacted Communities with updated CalEnviroScreen data. Contra Costa County is home to a high concentration of refineries and other large industrial facilities. While these industries contribute to pollution and contamination in Impacted Communities, many community members also value the jobs, tax benefits, and local energy production they provide. To mitigate the health and safety impacts of these industrial facilities, the County’s Industrial Safety Ordinance requires additional safety measures that go beyond State requirements to protect public health and safety. However, Impacted Communities still experience detrimental health outcomes due to their proximity to heavy industry and other sources of pollution like Interstate 80, State Route 4, and railroads. Railroads transport toxic substances through Impacted Communities such as North Richmond, presenting health and safety concerns for residents. In addition to pollution burdens, Impacted Communities have suffered from a sustained lack of public and private investment that has generally resulted in inadequate infrastructure and services and unkempt vacant and underdeveloped areas, harming neighborhood vitality and limiting property values and wealth-building capacity. The goals, policies, and actions in this section are intended to reduce these and other disadvantages and burdens experienced by Impacted Communities in Contra Costa County. It is a priority of the County to protect Impacted Communities from additional harm and progressively improve the quality of life and health outcomes of residents. Page 34Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 3 -4 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element FIGURE SC-1 IMPACTED COMMUNITIES Page 35Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -5 Goal SC-1 Policies SC-P1.1 In partnership with residents of Impacted Communities, affected workers, business/industry, environmental and environmental justice advocates, community colleges, workforce development and training entities, local government, and other involved agencies, support transition from petroleum refining and other highly polluting industries to a net-zero emission economy based on renewable and sustainable industries that provide living-wage jobs. SC-P1.2 Streamline the permitting process for new development, redevelopment, and rehabilitation that promotes community objectives in Impacted Communities, as identified in the Community Profiles. SC-P1.3 Support development of walkable districts that provide a range of neighborhood-serving retail and service uses, public amenities, and related infrastructure (such as lighting) to residents of Impacted Communities within walking distance of their homes. SC-P1.4 Support cultural and community-driven events, such as art festivals, farmers’ markets, and community service days, that support social connections, neighborhood identity, and environmental stewardship. SC-P1.5 Maintain a streamlined process to permit and facilitate partial and temporary street closures for community-driven amenities and activities, such as parklets, farmers’ markets, arts and cultural events, and outdoor dining, and assist applicants through the permit process. SC-P1.6 For projects negatively affecting an Impacted Community, support community benefits agreements (CBAs) negotiated with the project applicant to address the community’s expressed needs. The primary objective of these CBAs is to mitigate project impacts to the greatest extent possible, which could include mitigations exceeding the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Secondarily, to compensate for impacts that cannot be fully mitigated, these CBAs should secure community benefits that exceed inherent project benefits and support the community’s objectives, especially as identified in the Goal SC-1 Equitable distribution of social and economic resources among all communities in the county so that Impacted Communities are not disproportionately burdened by environmental pollution or other hazards. Page 36Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 3 -6 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element Community Profile. Neighborhood-serving retail uses that fill critical needs are exempt from this policy. SC-P1.7 Should a community no longer meet the threshold for designation as an Impacted Community during the 5-year review called for in Action SC-A1.7, examine the factors that contributed to the redesignation and determine whether continued action is needed to support the community in retaining its non-Impacted Community status. Actions SC-A1.1 Partner with the stakeholders identified in Policy SC-P1.1 to develop and implement a plan to transition from petroleum- refining and other highly polluting industries to renewable, sustainable, and clean industries that provide living-wage jobs. The plan should address site remediation responsibilities along with timelines and strategies to improve health, safety, infrastructure, job opportunities, and revenue opportunities during the transition toward a net-zero-emission economy, paying special attention to developing new opportunities for Impacted Communities to realize economic, health, educational, and other benefits. SC-A1.2 Amend County Ordinance Code Chapter 84-63, Land Use Permits for Development Projects Involving Hazardous Waste or Hazardous Materials, to: (a) Increase the hazard scores for projects with potential to adversely affect Impacted Communities to ensure more projects are subject to discretionary review. (b) Address ambiguities and antiquated terminology that complicate administration of the ordinance. (c) Require preparation of a plan to prevent and remediate any contaminant releases, along with bonds or other financial assurances that guarantee remediation plans are implemented, for projects in areas subject to sea-level rise or tsunami inundation.* SC-A1.3 With input from residents of Impacted Communities, amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to create an Impacted Communities Overlay Zone that applies to areas within and adjacent to Impacted Communities and establishes requirements for discretionary permits for nonresidential developments of 25,000 square feet or more. The overlay zone will include additional required project findings that promote environmental justice, health, and safety. Projects able to satisfy the required findings will: (a) Provide benefits that support the community objectives, such as those identified in the Community Profile. (b) Provide economic benefits for the community. (c) Avoid unwelcome permanent displacement of existing residents or businesses in the community. (d) Support community resiliency, cohesion, and safety. (e) Positively impact health and quality of life within the community. Page 37Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -7 As part of the process to develop this ordinance, create guidance for demonstrating consistency with these findings. SC-A1.4 Submit a report to the Board of Supervisors on the feasibility of creating or participating in a public bank, public-private partnerships, community land trusts, and other types of economic development and wealth-building tools to support local interests, community development, and long- term community ownership and housing affordability in Impacted Communities. SC-A1.5 Establish a process for the County to assist community-based organizations and public-private partners with obtaining financing (e.g., grants) to implement physical improvements and beautification projects such as murals, vegetative buffers, and planting strips in Impacted Communities. SC-A1.6 Dedicate staff in appropriate departments to assist applicants from Impacted Communities in navigating the project application and review process for projects in their communities. SC-A1.7 Upon each 5-year review of the General Plan, review health outcomes data for Impacted Communities and assess any updated information related to the delineation of Impacted Communities in Contra Costa County. Update the map of Impacted Communities (Figure SC-1) and environmental justice-related goals, policies, and actions accordingly. SC-A1.8 As part of the annual General Plan progress report to the Board of Supervisors, describe specific efforts to implement the General Plan policies and actions related to environmental justice, highlighting efforts in each Impacted Community. Post this report in a visible location on the County website. See the Public Facilities and Services Element for policies and actions related to infrastructure and service deficiencies in disadvantaged unincorporated communities pursuant to Senate Bill 244. COMMUNITY HEALTH Healthy Neighborhoods Promoting public health and achieving healthy communities through the built environment is a fundamental goal of this General Plan. We increasingly understand the connection between planning decisions and physical and mental health. The layout of our communities, the designs of buildings and public spaces, and the effectiveness of our transportation networks affect whether residents are able to make healthy food choices, walk or bike to a destination, play outside, and breathe clean air. The built environment also influences the level of community violence and overall social cohesion. For many common health factors, residents in Contra Costa County generally fare better than others in California and the nation. However, asthma, cardiovascular disease, and low birth weight rates are higher in Contra Costa County than the rest of California (see Figures SC-2 through SC-4). There are many risk factors for these health conditions, including poor nutrition, lack of exercise, stress, smoking, and exposure to air pollution. Some of these factors are directly impacted by the built environment. Page 38Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 3 -8 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element FIGURE SC-2 ASTHMA RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE Page 39Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -9 FIGURE SC-3 CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE Page 40Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 3 -10 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element FIGURE SC-4 LOW BIRTH WEIGHT RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE Page 41Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -11 This section also emphasizes strong social networks, which improve health by offering emotional support through hardships, preventing isolation, and buffering stress. There is a recognized relationship between strong social networks, physical and mental health, and well-designed spaces. The most livable communities have high-quality public spaces that enhance community character, offer opportunities for formal and informal social interaction, and promote active recreation. Through the policy guidance in this section, the County commits to reversing community deterioration and improving other conditions detrimental to health, healing, and personal and property safety within neighborhoods. Montalvin Park provides amenities for residents in West County. Goal SC-2 Policies SC-P2.1 Welcome redevelopment and clean-up of undesirable uses and activities, such as highly polluting industries, and support uses that have a positive impact on community well-being. SC-P2.2 Encourage development, preservation, and reinvestment that strengthen the unique character of each unincorporated community and advance community and neighborhood resilience. Ensure that future private and public projects provide infrastructure, parks and playgrounds, complete streets, trees and landscaping, streetscapes, signage, and sustainable building design that reflect and improve the character of the community, along with long- term maintenance mechanisms to ensure continued benefit from the improvements into the future. SC-P2.3 Within established communities, complete construction of sidewalks and crosswalks and encourage neighborhood design and development that supports safe walking, biking, and other micro-mobility options, convenient access to services and transit, and opportunities for local shopping. Goal SC-2 Safe, welcoming neighborhoods that support physical activity and a healthy environment for all residents. Page 42Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 3 -12 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element SC-P2.4 Provide functional civic space and well-maintained public amenities near high-volume transit hubs. Each hub area should project a positive visual image, a strong and unique identity, and a safe, inviting environment for pedestrians and passengers. SC-P2.5 Promote creation of community focal points and gathering places. SC-P2.6 Leverage community-specific natural features, such as creeks, shorelines, and trails, to strengthen community identity and connect residents to nature. SC-P2.7 Encourage land uses and activities that reflect and enrich the history and cultural heritage of each unincorporated community. SC-P2.8 Stimulate investment in communities by using CEQA infill exemptions to expedite environmental review and reduce project costs. SC-P2.9 Implement principles of universal and barrier-free design so that people of all physical abilities can enjoy mobility and accessibility in their communities. SC-P2.10 Empower residents of all ages and abilities to volunteer toward improving conditions in Contra Costa County and maintain a culture within County government that supports and celebrates such volunteerism. Actions SC-A2.1 Study the feasibility of implementing an amortization process to eliminate non-conforming land uses. See the Land Use Element for additional policies and actions on community design that supports active transportation. See the Transportation Element for policies and actions on pedestrian and bicycle safety, Safe Routes to Schools, and access to public transit. See the Public Facilities and Services Element for policies and actions on equitable access to parks and recreation areas. Access to Health Services While genetics and lifestyle choices affect health, so does access to quality, affordable medical care and health services. The county is served by nine hospitals: one in West County, six in Central County, and two in East County. This discrepancy is felt especially by West County residents, who throughout the General Plan update process expressed worry and frustration about long emergency response times and the lack of nearby medical facilities. Furthermore, even when these facilities are nearby, they can be especially difficult for seniors, people with disabilities, and other vulnerable populations to access due to gaps in the transit network. The policy guidance in this section responds to community concerns by promoting access to comprehensive health services throughout the county. Page 43Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -13 Goal SC-3 Policies SC-P3.1 Provide all communities with sufficient and equitable access to adequate healthcare and behavioral health facilities and services. SC-P3.2 Pursue feasible opportunities to co-locate healthcare services with other County services within new or substantially renovated County facilities. SC-P3.3 Support and encourage provision of paratransit, public transit, and other transportation services to neighborhood and regional healthcare facilities to meet identified gaps in service. Actions SC-A3.1 Welcome establishment of medical clinics, behavioral health facilities, and pharmacies in Impacted Communities. SC-A3.2 Streamline permitting processes for healthcare facilities to reduce barriers to their establishment in Impacted Communities. SC-A3.3 Continue collaborating with neighboring jurisdictions to assess and address issues related to capacity and access to emergency, acute, and preventative/primary healthcare services, especially in the West County region. Access to Healthy Food Healthy food is one of the best tools to combat obesity and chronic diseases like diabetes. Nutrition influences not only the incidence of these health conditions, but also school achievement, job attainment, and quality of life generally. When the only food options in a neighborhood are small convenience stores offering pre-packaged goods and restaurants sell fast food (i.e., what’s known as a “food desert”), it can be difficult to eat healthy. This becomes even more challenging when residents lack easy access to transportation, which can be common for vulnerable populations like children, seniors, people with disabilities, and people with low incomes. Grocery stores and markets that carry fresh foods, farmers’ markets, farm stands, and community gardens are all outlets that can increase neighborhood access to healthy food options. Goal SC-3 Convenient access to comprehensive, co-located health services so all residents can access the physical and behavioral healthcare they need. Page 44Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 3 -14 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element Urban agriculture (i.e., urban land used to grow crops or raise animals for food) can be another way to provide healthier food options. Reclaiming vacant land for urban agriculture can provide even more community benefits by bringing life and activity back to neglected areas. Locating urban farms in areas lacking access to fresh, healthy foods can expand opportunities for residents to eat healthy and improve overall community well-being. Farmers markets provide access to fresh, seasonal produce. Goal SC-4 Policies SC-P4.1 Encourage planting of home gardens and food-producing plants and trees on private property in urban areas. Encourage partnerships between property owners and gleaning and stewardship programs to harvest and maintain edible plantings. SC-P4.2 Encourage all new residential development to incorporate community gardens into the project design and require incorporation of community gardens for projects that meet the criteria established through Action SC-A4.2. SC-P4.3 Encourage urban agriculture, including urban farms and community gardens with collectively shared and managed plots, and demonstration and educational gardens operated by community organizations and educational institutions. Allow associated limited on-site sales, processing facilities, and complementary agricultural activities when compatible with adjacent uses. Goal SC-4 Support and expand small-scale food production and urban agriculture in urban areas, including growing, processing, and distributing fresh food. Page 45Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -15 SC-P4.4 Support programs that increase the availability of recycled water for urban agriculture and landscaping through self-fill stations and similar facilities. Actions SC-A4.1 Amend the urban agriculture provisions in County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to address the following: (a) Zoning districts where urban agriculture is allowed. (b) Permitting requirements. (c) Development and performance standards. (d) Environmentally safe and sustainable practices. (e) Sale of crops and value-added products. (f) Animal husbandry. (g) Disposal of food waste and agricultural byproducts. SC-A4.2 Amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to add a requirement for certain projects to incorporate community gardens into the project design. As part of this process, identify a threshold for triggering this requirement, considering project type, size, and location, and establish standards for garden size and design. Consider the unique needs of Impacted Communities when developing these regulations. SC-A4.3 Amend County Ordinance Code Title 4 – Health and Safety to allow food trucks within certain designated areas and on private property with special permits under Title 8. Goal SC-5 Policies SC-P5.1 Increase access to fresh food in Impacted Communities by encouraging grocery stores, and urban agriculture, farmers’ markets, and neighborhood kitchens on vacant or underutilized lands. Treat such uses as community benefits in and of themselves. SC-P5.2 Maximize multimodal access to fresh food in Impacted Communities, prioritizing micro-mobility and pedestrian access, by encouraging grocery stores, healthy corner stores, community gardens, and outdoor markets at key transit nodes and within transit-oriented developments. Goal SC-5 Convenient access to fresh, healthy, and affordable food in Impacted Communities. Page 46Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 3 -16 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element SC-P5.3 Provide temporary, and possibly permanent, access to County facilities and land for farmers’ markets and community gardens, especially in Impacted Communities. Actions SC-A5.1 Inventory and map food deserts in the county. As part of the inventory, account for walking, micro-mobility, and transit access. SC-A5.2 Amend the County Ordinance Code and/or procedures to streamline permitting processes for grocery stores and markets in Impacted Communities and food deserts. SC-A5.3 Develop incentives to attract grocery stores, markets, and establishments selling fresh produce, preferably locally grown, in areas with poor access to fresh food. SC-A5.4 Every five years beginning in 2025, review the Alcoholic Beverage Sales Commercial Activities Ordinance to ensure it protects Impacted Communities from experiencing disproportionate concentrations of, and impacts from, new bars and liquor stores. To support implementation of this ordinance, set up and maintain a shared data system between the Health Services and Conservation and Development departments that identifies the location of current establishments, along with information about public safety and health. SC-A5.5 Study the feasibility of restricting fast-food restaurants near schools, parks, and other places where children normally gather. HEALTHY HOMES Access to safe, sanitary housing is a fundamental part of strong, healthy, and just communities. With many county residents struggling to afford housing, and often dependent on a landlord’s willingness to make improvements, people end up living in unsanitary or substandard homes or not having a stable home at all. For example, while lead-based paint was banned federally in 1978, there are still older homes in Contra Costa County that pose lead risks to children, especially in Impacted Communities (see Figure SC-5). Poor home conditions can adversely impact a resident’s health from things like toxic building materials, pests and vermin, water intrusion, mold, exposure to climate variations, and poor air quality. Homes that lack air conditioning and air filtration can expose residents to extreme heat, wildfire smoke, and other air pollution, especially if they need to keep windows open for temperature control. In addition, some households may be overcrowded as families double or triple up to minimize housing costs. 004 Page 47Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #004 Posted by Dick Offerman on 01/31/2024 at 1:51pm [Comment ID: 35] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 Leaded gasoline was banned in 1975 because of the harm lead does to small children. Yet our homes are being dusted repeatedly by lead tainted exhaust from aircraft using leaded aviation fuel. Please stop the County from selling this toxic fuel. Please use an unleaded version of aviation fuel, just like Santa Clara County has done. Page 48Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -17 FIGURE SC-5 CHILDREN’S LEAD RISK FROM HOUSING RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE Page 49Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 3 -18 Public Review Draft Envision Contra Costa 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element Aging houses may qualify for rehabilitation through the County’s Neighborhood Preservation and Weatherization Programs. The County currently provides programs to support healthy homes, including the Weatherization Program, the Asthma Initiative, the Neighborhood Preservation Program, and the Mortgage Credit Certificate Program, and connects residents to other housing resources. In addition, the Contra Costa Housing Authority, a separate public agency in Contra Costa County, provides rental subsidies and manages and develops affordable housing for low-income families, seniors, and people with disabilities. Contra Costa County’s Housing Element, another Element of this General Plan, addresses a broader spectrum of housing issues and fulfills State housing law requirements for general plans. Goal SC-6 Policies SC-P6.1 Ensure that future improvements in Impacted Communities will not result in a net loss of affordable housing or significant preventable displacement of residents. SC-P6.2 Prompt owners of substandard housing units in Impacted Communities to repair and rehabilitate their buildings. SC-P6.3 Coordinate with residents of Impacted Communities, the Housing Authority of Contra Costa County, affordable housing developers, community land trusts, and housing advocates to transition vacant and underutilized land in Impacted Communities into affordable and transitional housing and shared equity models. This should include development of various types of innovative housing products and homeownership opportunities to help residents overcome past exclusionary practices and build intergenerational wealth. Goal SC-6 Universal access to safe and sanitary homes. Page 50Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Envision Contra Costa 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -19 Actions SC-A6.1 Obtain additional funding for, and address barriers to participation in, the County’s Weatherization Program and similar programs like the Contra Costa Asthma Initiative and Neighborhood Preservation Program for extremely low-, very low-, and low-income homeowners, seniors, landlords, and renters. Focus these efforts on homes in Impacted Communities, particularly rental and multiple-family housing. SC-A6.2 Create a bulk buying program or revolving loan fund that allows people to purchase energy-efficient electric appliances (air conditioners, fans, air purifiers, heaters, stoves, ovens, etc.) and other items that increase building efficiency at wholesale prices or minimal cost, possibly with zero- percent interest financing, to increase energy efficiency and replace hazardous appliances. Work with volunteer groups that help people install and dispose of air conditioners and other electrical appliances if they are unable to do so themselves, focusing on Impacted Communities and other areas with high concentrations of vulnerable people. Consider augmenting energy-efficiency programs to reduce electricity use and help offset the cost of operating electrical appliances. SC-A6.3 Partner with local solar energy providers to enact a solar group buy program to purchase solar panels and battery storage in bulk for installation in Impacted Communities, including establishment and subsidization of community solar programs that supply electricity to multiple consumers from a single photovoltaic solar location. The program should include an educational component to inform the community about the benefits and process of solar installation and give them the opportunity to enroll in the program at a discounted rate. SC-A6.4 Expand the County’s first-time homebuyer program to provide more information and assistance, prioritizing outreach in Impacted Communities to spread awareness of the program. See the Housing Element for a more comprehensive discussion of housing needs, homelessness, renter protection measures, and programs to affirmatively further fair housing. ARTS AND CULTURE Arts and culture play an integral role in Contra Costa County, as they enrich the lives of residents, visitors, and businesses alike. Artistic and cultural expression as present in historic buildings, residents’ oral histories, and ongoing community traditions and celebrations contribute to an individual and collective sense of identity and pride. Every resident should have available easily accessible opportunities for cultural development, expression, and involvement. Art can be rooted in history and a catalyst for change in a culture. As a key driver of economic development and tourism, arts and culture shape the community’s creative workforce and future leaders by promoting skills such as creativity, innovation, and critical thinking. By working together to uphold and promote the value of engaging with arts and culture, we can strengthen local economies and create more vibrant, diverse, and resilient communities. Page 51Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 3 -20 Public Review Draft Envision Contra Costa 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element Contra Costa County supports art and culture through the Arts Council, a public-private partnership between the County and a nonprofit organization that also works in conjunction with the California Arts Council. A mural brings life and color to this North Richmond building. Goal SC-7 Policies SC-P7.1 Support development of cultural facilities and programs that are physically and financially accessible to all, with emphasis on bringing these to Impacted Communities. SC-P7.2 Pursue arts and cultural investments as a tool for economic development, especially in Impacted Communities. SC-P7.3 Support artists, community groups, and volunteer organizations in implementing temporary and permanent public art programs, especially in Impacted Communities. SC-P7.4 Incorporate public art or artistic elements into County capital projects whenever feasible. Work with residents and the Arts Council to ensure works of public art are appropriate for the communities where they are installed. Actions SC-A7.1 Amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to establish a public art requirement for new development and funding mechanisms to create and maintain public art. Goal SC-7 Vibrant communities with strong identities reflected in public art and cultural events. Page 52Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Envision Contra Costa 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -21 SC-A7.2 Partner with recycling centers to establish artist-in-residence programs to support art education while encouraging residents to repurpose unwanted items and conserve natural resources. ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT Workforce Development To attract new businesses and retain those already here, the county must offer a workforce that possesses the education and skills employers need. The County supports economic and workforce development through the Workforce Development Board (WDB) staffed by the Employment and Human Services Department. WDB members are appointed by the County Board of Supervisors and include local business owners, economic development leaders, education professionals, labor advocates, community- based organization staff, and public agency representatives. The County leverages the WDB and other economic development agencies and advocates to ensure that Contra Costa County remains economically competitive within the greater San Francisco Bay Area. Workforce development is especially critical in Impacted Communities, which have higher rates of poverty and higher percentages of the adult population without a high school degree, as shown in Figures SC-6 and SC-7. By partnering with educational institutions and programs, employers, unions, and trade associations to support job-skills training and recruitment from the local workforce, while also working to diversify the local economy, the County can help increase opportunities for residents in Impacted Communities to find local jobs that offer a living wage. The historic C&H Sugar Refinery provides local jobs and bolsters the Crockett economy. (Community-submitted photo) Page 53Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 3 -22 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element FIGURE SC-6 POVERTY RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE Page 54Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -23 FIGURE SC-7 ADULTS WITHOUT A HIGH SCHOOL DEGREE RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE Page 55Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 3 -24 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element Goal SC-8 Policies SC-P8.1 Support schools, training programs, the WDB, and other institutions whose mission is to develop and enhance local workforce skills, including training and apprenticeship programs. SC-P8.2 Leverage opportunities to pursue workforce development, job training and re-training programs, and public-private partnerships that support economic growth. Support career pathway programs hosted by various County departments and encourage County staff to participate as mentors. SC-P8.3 Welcome businesses, especially family-sustaining, locally hiring, sustainable businesses, that provide essential goods and services in Impacted Communities, including food stores with fresh produce, healthcare, childcare, pharmacies, and other retailers, while discouraging predatory lenders, liquor stores, tobacco and cannabis retail stores, dollar stores, and fast-food restaurants. SC-P8.4 Promote entrepreneurship, innovation, and locally owned businesses and enterprises, especially ethnic, immigrant, and Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) entrepreneurship, for the purpose of improving economic self-sufficiency and stability, including through outreach efforts to local small business owners while minimizing permitting barriers. SC-P8.5 Encourage more daycares, preschools, and early childhood development centers to make childcare more accessible and affordable for working families. Actions SC-A8.1 Establish a First Source Hiring Program requiring developers, contractors, and employers to make good-faith efforts toward employing the local construction workforce, with emphasis on residents of Impacted Communities and those who are economically disadvantaged. SC-A8.2 Partner with school districts, community colleges, community organizations, large employers, trade associations, unions, and job training centers to support enhanced job-skills training, recruitment programs and services, and childcare services to support the county’s workforce, especially Goal SC-8 Access to and expansion of high-quality job training, job opportunities, and economic resources so that residents in Impacted Communities can acquire safe jobs, earn a living wage to support their families, and build shared prosperity. Page 56Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -25 workers in Impacted Communities. Work with experienced groups to ensure that programs will be properly staffed and funded. Training and intervention strategies should reduce barriers to employment for youth, formerly incarcerated residents, and residents with limited English proficiency, and should support a just transition from a fossil-fuel reliant economy by re-training displaced workers with skills for living- wage jobs in new industries. SC-A8.3 Explore the feasibility of establishing a revolving loan fund, grant program, or business incubator that supports small business formation and expansion in Impacted Communities. Connect to industries such as advanced manufacturing, biomedical/biotech, food, transportation technology, and clean technology that support an economic transition from fossil fuels. SC-A8.4 Develop and sufficiently fund a program to offer one-on-one support to small businesses in Impacted Communities. Through this program, provide guidance related to available grants and other forms of financing, access to innovation, access to emerging industries and markets, and mentorship. SC-A8.5 Explore use of existing federal and State government economic development programs, such as the “Opportunity Zone” program, “HUB Zone” program, and contracting designations, as a means to generate funding for transit, housing, and capital improvements, while attracting private investment. Business and Innovation Enhancing Contra Costa County’s success as an economic hub depends on retaining, supporting, and attracting a diverse range of businesses that will sustain the local economy despite changing market forces. Some of the largest employers in the unincorporated county have traditionally been in the petroleum refining industry, but these large facilities have begun transitioning their operations as global and national energy trends shift toward carbon-free and renewable energy sources. Going forward, the county’s economy should be centered on sustainable, clean, and green businesses and industries that provide living-wage jobs while protecting community health and the environment. Less than 10 percent of the jobs in the county are in unincorporated areas, so coordination with incorporated cities is an important component of the County’s economic development efforts. The Northern Waterfront Economic Development Initiative is a regional cluster-based economic development strategy, developed collaboratively between the County and seven partner cities. The Initiative intends to create 18,000 new jobs along Contra Costa County’s Northern Waterfront, which extends along the shoreline from Hercules to Oakley and down to Brentwood, by 2035. The Initiative is focused on propelling the advanced manufacturing economic sector and investing in human capital to promote equitable economic growth. The State has designated the area as a Green Empowerment Zone, which will provide additional tools to implement the Initiative’s goals. Additionally, the County worked with the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG)/Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) to designate Priority Production Areas (PPAs) in Bay Point and the North Concord/Pacheco/Vine Hill area. PPAs identify clusters of industrial businesses and prioritize them for economic development investments and protection from competing land uses. The Green Empowerment Zone and PPAs are depicted in Figure SC-8. Page 57Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 3 -26 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element FIGURE SC-8 GREEN EMPOWERMENT ZONE AND PRIORITY PRODUCTION AREAS Page 58Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -27 Shipping along the Northern Waterfront is an important part of the local economy. (Community-submitted photo) Goal SC-9 Policies SC-P9.1 Work collaboratively with cities and other local agencies to leverage Contra Costa County’s competitive assets and elevate the county’s role in the economic and cultural growth of the Bay Area and California. SC-P9.2 Position Contra Costa County to be a hub of production and employment for industries that spur economic growth and innovation in the transition to a zero-emission economy. SC-P9.3 Support business retention, expansion, and attraction efforts that diversify and strengthen the economy with special emphasis on businesses and industries that provide living- wage jobs, invest in the community, hire from the local workforce, and embrace sustainability. SC-P9.4 Maintain a well-balanced regulatory environment that facilitates business investment and expansion while addressing community concerns about potential impacts. SC-P9.5 Continue to support and expand local tourism. Emphasize memorable experiences available in Contra Costa County, such as agritourism, and recreational opportunities offered by unique natural features such as the Delta and Mount Diablo. SC-P9.6 Recognize agriculture as an important part of the County’s economy and maintain conditions that support its ongoing economic viability. Goal SC-9 Sustain a resilient, diversified economy that supports existing businesses, attracts new businesses, and encourages investment and innovation while fostering economic opportunities for all residents. Page 59Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 3 -28 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element SC-P9.7 Strengthen the viability of the Northern Waterfront as a dynamic economic asset and destination recreational area. Work with partner agencies to support beneficial, environmentally sustainable investment in this area. SC-P9.8 Support formation of the Green Empowerment Zone for the Northern Waterfront area and development of designated PPAs. SC-P9.9 Maximize Byron Airport’s potential as a hub of aviation technology and innovation. Actions SC-A9.1 Adopt an Economic Development Strategy. The strategy should define a vision for the county’s economy, identify and target suitable growth industries, and facilitate different types of economic development and employment growth in targeted areas. SC-A9.2 Implement the Northern Waterfront Economic Development Initiative, including business attraction efforts aimed at biomedical and life science businesses, food and beverage processing, advanced materials and diversified manufacturing, advanced transportation technology, and clean technology. SC-A9.3 Evaluate commercial and industrial regulations and permitting practices on an ongoing basis to ensure that they: (a) Address contemporary uses and activities. (b) Promote compatibility between new and legacy uses. (c) Avoid creating unnecessary barriers that hinder economic expansion, investment, and sustainable growth. SC-A9.4 Expand the Small Business Assistance Program, working collaboratively with technical assistance service providers. SC-A9.5 Explore the feasibility of establishing a small and micro- business fee-waiver program. SC-A9.6 Expand the County’s participation in the State’s Green Business Program. See the Open Space, Conservation, and Working Lands Element for policies about agritourism, solar and wind farms, and sustaining the agricultural economy. Page 60Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -29 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Community involvement is key to achieving the goals presented throughout this General Plan. Participation in County planning efforts brings diverse viewpoints and values into the decision-making process and helps ensure that County actions benefit the broadest range of people possible. Inclusive, participatory processes lead to better-informed solutions and build mutual understanding and trust between local government officials and the public they serve. Equitable and effective community engagement is also foundational to environmental justice. By elevating the voices of people who have traditionally been left out of the planning process, we can learn from their wisdom and experience and begin correcting past wrongs. The County aims to create strong, collaborative partnerships between government and community members, proactively addressing challenges and promoting inclusion as a core value. Residents in Byron share their vision for the future of their community. Goal SC-10 Policies SC-P10.1 Strengthen public trust through transparency, accessibility, and accountability in applying and implementing this General Plan and associated planning documents, such as the County Zoning Code. SC-P10.2 Build positive relationships between residents, businesses, and County officials. SC-P10.3 Expand opportunities to engage with County government. Provide residents with convenient access to information in the predominant languages spoken in their community. SC-P10.4 Make appropriate County-owned facilities available to nonprofit civic organizations and neighborhood groups for meetings and events. Goal SC-10 Effective decision making that seeks and incorporates the voices of county residents. Page 61Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 3 -30 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element SC-P10.5 Support community-driven/community-led initiatives that work toward achieving the community objectives identified in the Community Profiles. Actions SC-A10.1 Amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to improve accessibility by: (a) Using formatting tools and techniques, such as matrices and tables, that streamline the document. (b) Incorporating diagrams and other graphics to reduce reliance on text. (c) Using clear, unambiguous, and non-technical language whenever possible. Goal SC-11 Policies SC-P11.1 Engage with residents of Impacted Communities in a genuine, meaningful, and respectful manner. SC-P11.2 Notify and engage community members, organizations, and leaders when County planning decisions on major projects are being considered in or near Impacted Communities. Conduct meaningful outreach and engagement with Impacted Communities as follows: (a) Notify Impacted Communities of the existence of major projects early in the planning process. (b) Prepare public notices in the predominant language(s) spoken in the community and provide interpretation services at meetings as needed. (c) Make public notices and other important documents easy to understand and available in print at local libraries, community centers, or other gathering places. (d) Use a wide array of methods to inform community members of opportunities to participate, such as the County website, social media, texts, banners, mailers, and flyers. (e) Use supplemental outreach approaches that are appropriate for the participating community. (f) Schedule, format, and locate community workshops and meetings to be convenient for community members, both in person and online, whenever possible. (g) Use social media, virtual meeting platforms, recorded meetings, and other communication techniques to assist those without time or ability to attend public meetings. (h) Consider the economic, gender, age, and racial diversity of the affected population when developing outreach strategies. Goal SC-11 Residents empowered with strong voices to communicate needs and solutions. Page 62Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -31 (i) Clearly explain potential adverse impacts of a proposed project in plain language that is easily understood by the participating community. SC-P11.3 Provide community engagement and information access options for people in Impacted Communities without access to computers or internet. Use facilities such as public libraries and community centers as a resource for making information and technology available. SC-P11.4 Strive for more diverse representation on County boards, commissions, committees, and similar bodies to better reflect the demographics and varying viewpoints of county residents, with greater efforts to engage under-represented populations. SC-P11.5 Overtly acknowledge public participation and input offered at hearings conducted by the County Zoning Administrator, County Planning Commission, and other bodies making land use decisions. Actions SC-A11.1 Designate staff in departments that routinely interact with residents of Impacted Communities, such as Conservation and Development, Public Works, and Health Services, as liaisons to each Impacted Community. SC-A11.2 Hold semi-annual public meetings in each Impacted Community, including the County Supervisor representing the community and representatives from the full spectrum of County departments, to hear from residents of these communities, and use that input to inform the County’s annual budgeting process. Provide interpretation services at these meetings. SC-A11.3 Identify communities with a significant number of non- English-speaking households and develop resources and strategies for better engagement. SC-A11.4 Develop centralized outreach services to support all County departments with language interpretation, translation services for written documents, and sign language services for public meetings. SC-A11.5 Review procedures employed by the various County departments for collecting and disseminating data related to community health, safety, and economic vitality and study the feasibility of making additional data available to the public through accessible online tools. Page 63Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 3 -32 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element SC-A11.6 Amend County Ordinance Code Title 2 – Administration to increase the public notification distance for hearings concerning refineries and other large stationary sources (i.e., any stationary source that emits, or has the potential to emit, 40 tons per year or more of nitrous oxides or sulfur dioxide; 15 tons per year of coarse particulate matter; 10 tons per year of fine particulate matter; and/or 200 tons per year of carbon dioxide) from 300 to 3,000 feet. See the Public Facilities and Services Element for policies that prioritize public investment in capital improvements in Impacted Communities. STRONGER COMMUNITIES ELEMENT PERFORMANCE MEASURES To track progress in achieving the major goals of this Element, every five years, the County will collect data to assess its performance against the following measures. Progress will be tracked relative to the prior performance review and the baseline year of 2024. Based on the findings from the five-year review, the County may adjust policies, actions, or the approach to implementing them to improve performance, as needed. • Improved health outcomes of residents in Impacted Communities. • Increased percentage of homes that are within a half-mile of a grocery store or other entity that offers fresh food. • Reduced number of substandard homes that pose a health risk to residents in Impacted Communities. • Increased amount of support provided to businesses in Impacted Communities through the County’s small business assistance programs. • Reduced rate of poverty in Impacted Communities. COMMUNITY PROFILES Unincorporated communities in Contra Costa County are at different stages of development. For many, the residents’ vision for the future looks much like the community is today, while residents in other communities are more interested in transformation and evolution. Given the diversity of people, built environments, social and economic conditions, and natural landscapes across the county, this General Plan includes community-scale policy guidance in individual Community Profiles. The Community Profiles are intended to close gaps in countywide policies by addressing issues and opportunities that apply only to that specific community. Each Community Profile includes: • Contextual information summarizing local character, setting, land use patterns, demographics, history, natural resources, natural hazards, community vulnerabilities, and other key data. • A summary of the planned land uses in the community, as mapped in Figure LU-1, the General Plan Land Use Map. • Guiding principles that formulate a vision for the future of the community, plus policies and actions to support that vision. The Community Profiles for Impacted Communities have an additional section that highlights environmental justice issues through maps and charts. As explained in the section of this Element on environmental justice, the CalEnviroScreen data that identifies Impacted Communities will change over time, so the County will periodically update the map of Impacted Communities and associated community profiles and policy guidance, as called for in Action SC-A1.7. Page 64Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -33 There are 22 Community Profiles presented in this section. These communities were identified through public input and collaboration among County staff and include communities with an individual identity and local concerns that are unique to their residents and businesses. They include: • Alamo/Castle Hill • Alhambra Valley/Reliez Valley/Briones • Bay Point • Bethel Island • Byron • Canyon • Clyde • Contra Costa Centre • Crockett • Diablo • Discovery Bay • East Richmond Heights • El Sobrante • Kensington • Knightsen • Montara Bay/Rollingwood (i.e., Montalvin Manor, Tara Hills, Bayview, and Rollingwood) • North Richmond • Pacheco • Port Costa • Rodeo • Saranap/Parkmead • Vine Hill/Mountain View The County met with residents of each of these communities at least once during the General Plan update process to ensure each profile articulates the shared values, priorities, and aspirations for their future. Page 65Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 3 -34 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element This page intentionally left blank. Page 66Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 ALAMO AND CASTLE HILL - CONTEXT - 1 Source: Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. WHO LIVES IN ALAMO AND CASTLE HILL? Median Age VS 51 years old in Alamo and Castle Hill 40 years old inContra Costa County Median Household Income VS $186,211 in Alamo and Castle Hill $103,997inContra Costa County Race & Ethnicity ►78% White ►10% Asian ►8% Hispanic or Latino ►1% Black or African American Average Life Expectancy VS 84 years old in Alamo and Castle Hill 81 years old inContra Costa County Alamo and Castle Hill are located between Walnut Creek and Danville. The communities are renowned for their comfortable residential neighborhoods, wooded hillsides, excellent schools, well-maintained parks, and strong sense of community. A portion of Castle Hill is within the Sphere of Influence of the City of Walnut Creek. Alamo and Castle Hill are mostly comprised of single- family ranch-style homes on relatively large lots. However, Alamo also includes multiple-family hous ing along Danville Boulevard south of Stone Valley Road and estates on large rural tracts. Alamo and Castle Hill originated as communities of ranches and orchards in the late 19th century. The area remained rural until after World War II when new freeways made it more accessible. Developments like the Round Hill Country Club (1960) helped establish the community’s image as a desirable place to live. Major thoroughfares in the area are Danville Boulevard, which runs north-south along the west side of Interstate 680, and Stone Valley Road, which runs east from Danville Boulevard toward Diablo. Alamo’s major commercial center is located around the intersection of these two streets and includes several shop- ping centers, office buildings, civic uses, and housing. Local planning priorities continue to be preserving Alamo’s and Castle Hill’s character, maintaining the scale of the housing stock, preserving mature trees, reducing wildfire risks, and managing traffic and safety on local roadways. 0 Scale (Miles) 1.5 Page 67Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 ALAMO AND CASTLE HILL - CONTEXT - 2 HAZARDS Drought Extreme Heat Flooding Human Health Hazards Landslides and Debris Flows Seismic Hazards Severe Storms Wildfire MAJOR VULNERABILITIES Seniors, especially seniors living alone, and cost-burdened house-holds are vulnerable to air quality, extreme heat, flooding, landslides, seismic hazards, and wildfire. Persons without access to lifelines and persons living on single access roads are vulnerable to wildfire, landslides, and flooding. Energy delivery, solid waste removal, and water and wastewater services are vulnerable to landslides, flooding, seismic hazards, and wildfire. Woodland and riparian woodland areas are vulnerable to agricultural pests and diseases, drought, and wildfire. The information on this page presents a summary of hazards and vulnerabilities in Alamo and Castle Hill based on the Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment; please see the online Vulnerability Assessment for a full description of these hazards and vulnerabilities. Source: CalFire, 2018; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. 0 Scale (Miles) 1.5 WILDFIRE FLOOD ZONES City of Danville City of Walnut Creek PineCreek San R amon C reek East BranchGreenValleyCreek Gree n Valley Cr e ek Tice C r e e k CerroDel, A r royo OakshirePlS Broa dw a y TiceValley B l vd DelAmi go RdRo u n dhill R dNewellAv e Stewart A v eBla c k w ood D r Las T r ampas RdGreenVa ll e yRdE m mo n s C anyonDrWa l nutB lvd ElPinta doRdRoun d hill DrLavenderDrHawthorneDr Ca m eo Dr L u n ada L n KussR dSan M i gu e lDrWhitecliff Wa ySerafix Rd Bo llaAve Richa r dLnCrest A v eCastle Crest R dC astl eR o c k RdSak l an In d ian D r Mccauley RdTi c e Cr e e k Dr Bollinger C an yon R o ss m o o r PkyS Mai n S t Northgate Rd R udgear R d Livor n a R d DiabloRd H a r tz AveDa n v i l l e B l v d DapplegrayLnOlymp icBlvdLa G on d a WayEl Cerro Bl vd Cam i no T a s s ajaraMirandaAveN G a t e R d Stone V a l ley Rd 680 DiabloCountryClubPost Office Round HillCountry Club CastleHill Alamo Flood Hazard Map 0 1.50.75 Miles Alamo and Castle Hill Source: FEMA, 2019; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2019. A 100-year flood zone represents a 1% chance of flooding in any given year. A 500-year flood zone represents a 0.2% chance of flooding in any given year. Flood Hazard Areas 100-Year Flood Zone 500-Year Flood Zone Areas of Undetermined but Possible Flood Hazard Water Incorporated Cities Urban Limit Line Outside Urban Limit Line Creeks and Drainages G arrity CreekSource: FEMA, 2019; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. 0 Scale (Miles) 1.5 Page 68Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 ALAMO AND CASTLE HILL - GUIDANCE - 3 GUIDING PRINCIPLES The following guiding principles articulate the values, priorities, and aspirations for the future shared by Alamo and Castle Hill community members: 1. Alamo and Castle Hill residents value their existing lifestyle and community. The safe, quiet, small-town character should be maintained where possible. 2. Residents identify their undeveloped surroundings as one of the most valuable assets of this area. Preservation of the natural setting and wildlife habitat should be prioritized. 3. Multiple-family units should generally be located within one mile of the Downtown Alamo commercial core to provide residents access to transit, commercial services, and the Iron Horse Trail. 4. The commercial core of Alamo should be maintained and enhanced so that it continues to provide jobs and services, as well as a central gathering place for the community. 5. New development should enrich the community's architectural character and scenic quality. 6. Because Alamo and Castle Hill are proximate to large swaths of wooded hills, grass- lands, and pipelines carrying volatile materials, they are at risk of exposure to hazard- ous materials and potentially severe fires. The communities should be protected from these hazards through proper planning and emergency response. PLANNED LAND USE Land use designations for Alamo and Castle Hill are shown on Figure LU-1, General Plan Land Use Map, and are defined in the Land Use Element. Plans for both communities aim to main- tain and enhance existing residential uses while accommodating new residential development that is in harmony with the surrounding natural setting. Minimal change is anticipated in exist- ing single-family neighborhoods. Alamo contains an area along Danville Boulevard designated Mixed Use, which overlaps a well-established commercial core comprised of existing uses that serve many residents' daily needs. The commercial viability of this mixed-use area is to be maintained while allowing for development of higher-density residential uses that provide a mix of housing options. Over time, more diverse housing types may be developed, diversifying the housing stock and accommodating housing needs at different stages of life. Residents value open space around Alamo and Castle Hill. (Community-submitted photo.) Historically significant commercial uses in Alamo.Existing large-lot single-family housing in Alamo. Existing commercial in Alamo. Page 69Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 ALAMO AND CASTLE HILL - GUIDANCE - 4 ACTIONS 1. Assist with a community-led process to create design guidelines and standards for new development that enhance community character and preserve historic land- marks. 2. Explore the possibility of establishing a community center that provides facilities for library services, community meetings, and events/gatherings. 3. Proactively address hazards on County-owned land, including removing dead trees, trimming healthy trees, preserving creeks and natural resources, and encour aging planting of native trees. 4. Improve pedestrian and bicycle safety and mobility through infrastructure enhance- ments. Specifically, widen shoulders, close bike lane gaps, plant native landscaping and street trees, install lighted crosswalks where appropriate, and improve connec- tions to local and regional trails like the Iron Horse Trail. 5. Assist a community-led process to develop congestion management plans for problem areas, including areas near schools and along local streets that are used for cut-through traffic. The planning process should engage the Sherriff’s Office to promote effective traffic enforcement. 6. Work with local transit agencies to improve transit connections to the Walnut Creek BART Station. POLICIES 1. Preserve the Downtown Alamo mixed-use area’s role as a business district serving nearby neighborhoods. Support retention of active commercial uses and local-serving businesses while promoting new residential development. 2. Support development of a mix of housing types and densities to diversify the housing stock and better serve residents of all ages, including current residents choosing to down- size, while still maintaining the predominantly single-family residential character. (3-116) 3. Prioritize preservation of irreplaceable natural features (e.g., mature stands of oak trees and riparian corridors) and wildlife habitat. 4. Maintain public views of Mount Diablo, scenic ridges, and other defining natural elements of the local landscape to the greatest extent feasible. 5. Encourage commercial uses to be neighborhood-scale and serve the needs of the com- munity. Discourage large-scale commercial uses catering to a more regional customer base. (3-117, 3-123) 6. Maintain Danville Boulevard and Stone Valley Road as two-lane roadways outside of Alamo’s business district. Support infrastructure and roadway improvements, includ ing potential turn lanes and other strategies to improve traffic flow. 7. Encourage community-wide pedestrian and bicycle mobility and use of public transporta- tion. 8. Deny applications for General Plan amendments to establish new Commercial and Office or Mixed Use designations along either side of Danville Boulevard north of St. Alphonsus Way and Jackson Way, and south of South Avenue. 9. Discourage roof heights exceeding 40 feet, or architectural features (such as parapets) exceeding 45 feet. 10. Require new commercial, multiple-family, and mixed-use projects along or near the west side of Danville Boulevard to provide unobstructed bicycle/pedestrian paths and public access to the Iron Horse Trail whenever feasible. 11. Require commercial, multiple-family residential, and mixed-use projects in the Downtown Alamo commercial core to enhance the streetscape; emphasize pedestrian orientation, safety, and amenity; and provide outdoor civic space for gathering and entertainment. 005 Page 70Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #005 Posted by Kevin Burke on 10/17/2023 at 10:08pm [Comment ID: 5] - Link Question Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 What is "3-116" a reference to? Page 71Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 ALHAMBRA VALLEY, RELIEZ VALLEY, AND BRIONES - CONTEXT - 1 Alhambra Valley, Reliez Valley, and Briones are small communities that value their close proximity to open space, rolling hills, wildlife, and seasonal creeks. The three communities are situated in central Contra Costa County and border Briones Regional Park and East Bay Municipal Utility District land. Land uses primarily consist of low- or very low-density housing. Residents generally travel to Martinez, Pleasant Hill, or Lafayette for goods and services. While there is little support for new commercial or employment uses locally, there is interest in providing more accessible services and housing that supports a multi-generational community, including a growing population of aging and retired residents. Given the isolated location, residents are concerned about emergency services and safety. Roadway collapses have occurred and there are many unmet road repair needs, which must be addressed given the heightened need for emergency access in a high-fire-risk area. The communities are proud of Fire Station #19 and excited about its recent reopening. However, residents are still concerned about the lack of telecommunication services and communication reliability during an emergency. WHO LIVES IN ALHAMBRA VALLEY, RELIEZ VALLEY, AND BRIONES? Median Household Income VS $164,148 in Alhambra/Reliez/Briones $103,997inContra Costa County Race & Ethnicity ►34% White ►26% Asian ►17% Hispanic or Latino ►13% Black or African American Average Life Expectancy VS 83 years old in Alhambra/Reliez/Briones 81 years old inContra Costa County Median Age VS 47 years old in Alhambra Valley/Reliez Valley/Briones 40 years old inContra Costa County (Community-submitted photo.) Source: Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. 0 Scale (Miles) 2 Page 72Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 ALHAMBRA VALLEY, RELIEZ VALLEY, AND BRIONES - CONTEXT - 2 HAZARDS Agricultural pests and diseases (Briones) Drought Extreme heat Flooding (Alhambra Valley) Fog Human health hazards Landslides Seismic hazards Severe storms Wildfire MAJOR VULNERABILITIES Seniors and seniors living alone are vulnerable to extreme heat, human health hazards, landslides, and wildfire. Persons living on single access roads, persons without access to lifelines, and persons with disabilities are vulnerable to extreme heat, flooding, landslides, seismic hazards, severe storms, and wildfire. Highway 4, Alhambra Valley Road, Reliez Valley Road, and Bear Creek Road are vulnerable to flooding, landslides, severe storms, and wildfires. Agricultural operations in Briones are vulnerable to damage from agricultural pests and diseases. Briones Regional Park, chaparral and scrub habitat, woodland habitat, and outdoor recreation are vulnerable to drought, extreme heat, landslides, severe storms, and wildfire. LANDSLIDE 0 Scale (Miles) 2 0 Scale (Miles) 1 WILDFIRE Source: CAL FIRE, 2018; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. The information on this page presents a summary of hazards and vulnerabilities in Alhambra Valley, Reliez Valley, and Briones based on the Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment; please see the online Vulnerability Assessment for a full description of these hazards and vulnerabilities. Source: California Geologic Survey, 2008; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. Page 73Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 ALHAMBRA VALLEY, RELIEZ VALLEY, AND BRIONES - GUIDANCE - 3 GUIDING PRINCIPLES The following guiding principles articulate the values, priorities, and aspirations for the future shared by Alhambra Valley, Reliez Valley, and Briones community members: 1. The secluded qualities and rural lifestyle in the Alhambra Valley, Reliez Valley, and Briones communities should be preserved and maintained. 2. The existing balance between developed and rural land uses should be preserved. 3. The diversity of existing agricultural uses in the region, including vineyards, should be supported. 4. Residents of Alhambra Valley, Reliez Valley, and Briones who lack housing should have access to quality services. Vital, easy-to-access community programs related to homelessness, housing, and elderly services should be available. Residents who are at risk of losing housing should be protected from displacement. 5. The residents of Alhambra Valley, Reliez Valley, and Briones should have access to quality transportation, housing, and program services that accommodate multi-generational community needs. PLANNED LAND USE Land use designations for Alhambra Valley, Reliez Valley, and Briones are shown on Figure LU- 1, General Plan Land Use Map, and are defined in the Land Use Element. Each community has been planned to maintain existing low- or very low- density residential uses, surrounded by rural agricultural lands, resource conservation, and parks and recreation areas. There are no commercial areas planned in Alhambra Valley, Reliez Valley, or Briones. The Land Use Map envisions that new development will either enhance and diversify existing agricultural uses or serve and accommodate the community’s existing population. Existing fire station in Briones.Existing agricultural uses in Briones. Existing single-family use in Alhambra Valley.Existing open space in Alhambra Valley. Page 74Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 ALHAMBRA VALLEY, RELIEZ VALLEY, AND BRIONES - GUIDANCE - 4 ACTIONS 1. Update the Alhambra Valley Specific Plan. POLICIES 1. Continue adhering to the Briones Hills Agricultural Preservation Area compact, which states that the surrounding jurisdictions (Contra Costa County and the cities of Martinez, Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek, Lafayette, Orinda, Richmond, Pinole, and Hercules) voluntarily agree not to annex any lands within the 64 square mile area for the purposes of allowing urban development (see Figure LU-5). This rural area includes large properties owned by the East Bay Municipal Utility District and East Bay Regional Park District, which respectively are designated Resource Conservation and Parks and Recreation on Figure LU-1, General Plan Land Use Map. The remaining properties are used primarily for grazing cattle and are designated Agricultural Lands. (3-132) 2. Require new development to be consistent with the community’s rural character in terms of massing and scale. 3. Prioritize roadway infrastructure maintenance and improvement, especially repair of collapsed roadways. 4. Support and promote the expansion of transportation services, affordable housing, and health resources for the growing senior population. 5. Support and encourage increased internet access and telecommunication services. 6. Maintain Fire Station 19 and fire services to protect from wildfire hazards. Page 75Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Originally bordered by a large swath of tule marsh, Bay Point was settled for ranch- ing in the 1800s. It became a lumber manufacturing and distribution port in the early 1900s. The area’s prime location along the Southern Pacific Company’s trans- continental tracks and the deep water of Suisun Bay facilitated shipment of raw materials and prod ucts by both land and water, spurring quick economic growth in the community. Today, most of the community consists of single- and multiple-family residential uses. While there are some commercial uses in Bay Point, primarily along the major thorough fares of Willow Pass Road and Bailey Road, local neighborhood-serving amenities are limited. The Bay Point waterfront, meanwhile, has retained its indus- trial character. In 1993, the community voted to be renamed from “West Pittsburg” to “Bay Point” to solidify its identity as separate from Pittsburg to the east. Residents take pride in their independence from nearby cities, but are concerned about the need for increased services and coordination among service providers. This includes the Ambrose Recreation and Park District (ARPD), an important special district (inde- pendent from the County) that provides park facilities, programs, and activities for the community. Park safety and homelessness are issues of concern, particularly along the waterfront. Along major thoroughfares, street lighting and pedestrian safety improvements are local priorities. Community-led orga nizations advocate to address these local issues. The nearby BART station is an important node for the community, as well as a key development opportunity. BART provides many residents with an essential regional transportation link to jobs in Walnut Creek and beyond. Many in the com- munity also would like improved Tri Delta Transit bus services and improved transit stop amenities. Bay Point is also within the planning area of the 2020 Pittsburg/ Bay Point Community-Based Transportation Plan, a plan devel oped by the Contra Costa Transportation Authority to address the community’s mobility needs. BAY POINT - CONTEXT - 1 WHO LIVES IN BAY POINT? Median Age VS 32 years old in Bay Point 40 years old inContra Costa County Median Household Income VS $67,908 in Bay Point $103,997inContra Costa County Race & Ethnicity ►68% Hispanic or Latino ►11% White ►9% Black or African American ►8% Asian Average Life Expectancy VS 78 years old in Bay Point 81 years old inContra Costa County 0 Scale (Miles) .5Source: Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2020. Page 76Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Traffic on Highway 4 poses air quality hazards to Bay Point residents. Photo by Trish Dominguez.These images represent hazards to which Bay Point is vulnerable, includ-ing industrial accidents, earthquakes, and flooding. BAY POINT - CONTEXT - 2 City of ConcordClaytonC anal CordeliaSloughM allard S l o ugh ContraCosta C a nal Canal Rd San Marcos Ave Evora Rd Avila Rd Shore Rd WoodhillDr Pacifica Ave Riversi d e D r JacquelineDr Alves RanchRd S u gartree Dr Solano Ave Hanlon Way Ke v in D r Anchor Dr W Leland R d PortChic a g o H w y Nichols Rd Driftwo odDr Bailey Rd Willow Pass Rd 4 Bay PointLibrary MOTCO City ofPittsburg Bay Point Flood Hazard Map 0 10.5 Miles Bay Point Source: FEMA, 2019; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2019. A 100-year flood zone represents a 1% chance of flooding in any given year. A 500-year flood zone represents a 0.2% chance of flooding in any given year. Flood Hazard Areas 100-Year Flood Zone 500-Year Flood Zone Areas of Undetermined butPossible Flood Hazard Water Unincorporated Areas Incorporated Cities Urban Limit Line Outside Urban Limit Line BART Route Railroads Creeks and Drainages BART Station HAZARDS Air quality from increased ozone and diesel particulate matter Coastal flooding Extreme heat Flooding Human health hazards Landslides and debris flows Sea level rise Seismic hazards Wildfire MAJOR VULNERABILITIES Cost-burdened households, households in poverty, low-income households, persons experiencing homelessness, and persons with chronic illnesses are vulnerable to coastal flooding. Cost-burdened households, households in poverty, and low-income households are highly vulnerable to having their homes damaged by landslides, seismic hazards, and sea level rise. Cost-burdened households, households in poverty, low-income households, persons experiencing homelessness, and persons with chronic illnesses are vulnerable to wildfire. The Amtrak line, neighborhoods connected by single access roads, the library, and the fire station are vulnerable to coastal flooding. The Amtrak line, neighborhoods connected by single access roads, the library, Bay Point BART stop, and commercial buildings are vulnerable to sea level rise. Public transit access, water and wastewater services, energy delivery services, and solid waste removal services are vulnerable to multiple hazards. City of ConcordClaytonC anal CordeliaSloughM allard S l ough ContraCosta C a nal Canal Rd San Marcos Ave Evora Rd Avila Rd Shore Rd Woodhill Dr Pacifica Ave Riversi d e D r Jacqueline Dr Alves RanchRd S u gartree Dr Solano Ave Hanlon Way Ke v in D r Anchor Dr W Leland R d PortChic a g o H w y Nichols Rd Driftwo odDr Bailey Rd Willow Pass Rd 4 Bay PointLibrary MOTCO City ofPittsburg Bay Point Flood Hazard Map 0 10.5 Miles Bay Point Source: FEMA, 2019; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2019. A 100-year flood zone represents a 1% chance of flooding in any given year. A 500-year flood zone represents a 0.2% chance of flooding in any given year. Flood Hazard Areas 100-Year Flood Zone 500-Year Flood Zone Areas of Undetermined butPossible Flood Hazard Water Unincorporated Areas Incorporated Cities Urban Limit Line Outside Urban Limit Line BART Route Railroads Creeks and Drainages BART Station Source: FEMA, 2019; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. FLOOD ZONES The information on this page presents a summary of hazards and vulnerabilities in Bay Point based on the Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment; please see the online Vulnerability Assessment for a full description of these hazards and vulnerabilities. A 100-year flood zone represents a 1% chance of flooding in any given year. A 500-year flood zone represents a 0.2% chance of flooding in any given year 0 Scale (Miles) .5 Page 77Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 BAY POINT - CONTEXT - 3 IMPACTED COMMUNITY The County has identified Bay Point as an Impacted Community under Senate Bill (SB) 1000, which requires the County to integrate environmental justice into the General Plan. This law is based on the understanding that some communities have experienced a combination of historic discrimination, negligence, and political and economic disempowerment. Often, this has resulted in a disproportionate burden of pollution and health impacts and disproportionate social and economic disadvantages in these communities. The 21 indicators that contribute to Bay Point’s identification as an Impacted Community are highlighted in the chart to the right, with additional details provided in the maps that follow, based on State data from CalEnviroScreen. The chart shows how Bay Point ranks for each indicator compared to the rest of the state. The County identifies Impacted Communities as those where the combined ranking for all factors is 72 percent or higher. While there are multiple Census tracts that make up Bay Point, this chart presents only the most-impacted Census tract in Bay Point. Chemical pollution from nearby heavy industrial and manufacturing uses has severely impacted Bay Point. While remediation efforts are underway, the continued presence of these uses creates the risk of community exposure to associated hazards. Meanwhile, these businesses often do not hire from the local population due to mismatched skill sets and language barriers. Therefore, many residents endure longer commutes to often low-paying jobs in central Contra Costa County where higher housing costs price them out of residency. This migration is mirrored by a larger trend in eastern Contra Costa County to drive into the Bay Area’s employment centers, causing roadway congestion, increasing driving times, and polluting the air. Water quality has long been a concern among Bay Point residents. In the last decade, relatively high levels of disinfection byproducts were identified in the drinking water. After strong community advocacy, the local private water company began purchasing treated water, and today the water company is compliant with all water quality standards. However, residents still cite concerns about bad tastes and odor in the water. IMPACTED COMMUNITY INDICATORS (2021) Ranking of Most Impacted Census Tract in Bay Point Relative to the State Air Quality: Ozone Concentration Air Quality: Fine Particle (PM2.5) Concentration Diesel Particulate Matter Emissions Concentration of Toxic Releases Traffic Density Pesticide Use Concentration of Drinking Water Contaminants Children's Lead Risk from Housing Concentration of Clean Up Sites Susceptibility to Groundwater Threats Density of Hazardous Waste Facilities Proximity to Impaired Water Bodies Proximity to Solid Waste Sites Asthma-Induced Emergency Room Visits Low Birth Weight Infants Heart Attack-Induced Emergency Room Visits Population Without a High School Degree Limited English Speaking Households Poverty Relative Unemployment Housing Burdened Low Income Households 0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70% 72% 80%90%100% 32% 33% 83% 0% 33% 76% 8% 48% 77% 77% 25% 98% 87% 86% 57% 55% 88% 84% 7070% 6969% 6565% Page 78Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 BAY POINT - CONTEXT - 4 Source: CalEnviroscreen, 2021; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022.Source:CalEnviroscreen, 2021; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. This map ranks Census tracts based on the concentration of toxic chemical releases from industrial facilities. Parts of Bay Point are ranked at 84 percent, meaning that the area has a concentration of toxic releases that is worse than 84 percent of the state. This map ranks Census tracts based on the density of traffic, which is a measure of the number of vehicles on the roads in an area. Traffic density is associated with poor air quality. Parts of Bay Point are ranked at 83 percent, meaning that the area has a traffic density that is worse than 83 percent of the state. TOXIC RELEASES TRAFFIC DENSITY 0 Scale (Miles) 10 Scale (Miles) 1 Page 79Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 BAY POINT - CONTEXT - 5 Source: CalEnviroscreen, 2021; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. This map ranks Census tracts based on the density of hazardous waste facilities and generators, considering each facility’s type and permit status and generator activities. Parts of Bay Point are ranked at 77 percent, meaning that the area has a density of hazardous waste facilities and generators that is higher than 77 percent of the state. HAZARDOUS WASTE 0 Scale (Miles) 1 ClaytonCanalCordeliaSloughMallard Slough Contra CostaCanal Canal Rd San Marcos AveEvora Rd Avila Rd Shore R d WoodhillDrPacifica Ave Riverside Dr JacquelineDrAlves Ranch RdSugartree DrSolano AveHanlon Way KevinDr Anchor Dr WLeland R d PortChicago H w y Nichols RdDriftwoodDr Bailey RdWillow Pass Rd 4 Bay Point City ofPittsburg City ofConcord Bay PointLibrary Hazardous Waste Generatorsand Facilities Map 010.5 Miles Generators of Hazardous Waste Census Tract Ranking >90 to 100% >80 to 90% >70 to 80% >60 to 70% >50 to 60% 0 to 50% Incorporated City Urban Limit Line Outside Urban Limit Line BART Route Railroads Creeks and Drainages BART Station Bay Point Source: CalEnviroscreen, 2018; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2019. Page 80Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Multi-family housing in Bay Point.The Pittsburg/Bay Point BART Station. Mixed-use development in Bay Point.Commercial use in Bay Point. BAY POINT - GUIDANCE - 6 PLANNED LAND USE Land use designations for Bay Point are shown on Figure LU-1, General Plan Land Use Map, and are defined in the Land Use Element. Most of the community is planned for continued residential uses at a variety of densities, surrounded primarily by park, conservation, public, and industrial uses. Hillside areas will be preserved through Resource Conservation, Parks and Recreation, and Agricultural Lands designations. The Land Use Map envisions the area around the Pittsburg/Bay Point BART Station transitioning to a denser and more vital community. This vision will be accomplished by creating three distinct mixed-use areas, each with a slightly different character. The three mixed-use areas share a common set of design principles intended to create a more walkable, pedestrian-friendly environment. Key principles include allowing varied setbacks, encouraging new buildings to be located close to the street frontage, and locating surface parking to the rear of the buildings rather than in the front. The text to the right provides a summary of the three mixed-use areas and the vision for each. Willow Pass Road Corridor The mixed-use area along Willow Pass Road is envisioned as a unified, well-designed corridor, with new mixed-use development and improved services. Public and private improvements in this area will stimulate reinvestment. The area will incorporate a range of neighborhood shopping, residential, and office uses, with parking located behind commercial uses along Willow Pass Road. Bailey Road Urban Center This mixed-use area north of the Highway 4/Bailey Road interchange aims to create a more unified and vibrant urban center offering a mix of uses at a compact and walkable scale. Multiple-family residential development proximate to employment uses and services is highly encouraged. This area should develop into a pedestrian- oriented district serving residents who live nearby, with access to quality local and regional transportation. Pittsburg/Bay Point BART Station Area This mixed-use area south of the Highway 4/Bailey Road intersection is planned for dense residential development that takes advantage of the area’s proximity to the BART Station and Ambrose Park. Limited commercial uses are secondary to residential development and should provide goods and services to commuters, neighborhood residents, and visitors to Ambrose Park. The Pittsburg/Bay Point BART Station Area Specific Plan (2002) is still in effect and provides more detailed guidance for this area. Page 81Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 BAY POINT - GUIDANCE - 7 GUIDING PRINCIPLES The following guiding principles articulate the values, priorities, and aspirations for the future shared by Bay Point community members: 1. Bay Point is a great place to raise a family. Its small-town community-mindedness and relative affordability should be preserved and supported for future generations. 2. The entire community should enjoy streetscapes and open spaces that are free from abandoned cars, debris, and litter, with ample street lighting to improve visibility when walking at night. 3. Bay Point residents need more local, high-quality jobs from a more diverse business base. Businesses should be encouraged to hire locally and provide living wage jobs. 4. Additional retail development should be encouraged along Willow Pass Road. 5. Bay Point residents enjoy a central location in the Bay Area, with easy regional access via multiple transportation modes. Easy access to local and regional transportation should be maintained and enhanced. 6. Bay Point residents who lack housing should have access to quality services and programs, including a new shelter, increased mental health and substance abuse services, and facilities that are tailored to specific age groups (e.g., seniors and teens). Bay Point residents who are at risk of losing housing should be protected from displacement. 7. Bay Point’s waterfront north of the railroad tracks should be developed with water recreation and commercial uses while ensuring greater resilience to near-and long- term hazards associated with sea-level rise. 8. Park and recreation facilities should be safe and inviting to residents and families through quality amenities and ongoing maintenance. The ARPD should have the funding it needs to enhance park and recreation services, including improving the community center and Ambrose and Lynbrook Parks and establishing a new community-oriented park, potentially in Shore Acres. 9. The agencies that provide community services should coordinate efforts to maximize effectiveness and reach all those who need their services. 10. Bay Point residents should be safe from short- and long-term hazards associated with industrial facilities in and near the community. POLICIES 1. Ensure that land use and development projects will not create negative impacts such as increased toxic exposure, a net loss of affordable housing, or the displacement of residents and local legacy businesses. 2. Coordinate with the Housing Authority of Contra Costa County, affordable housing developers, and other organizations to transition vacant and underutilized land into affordable rental and ownership housing that serves Bay Point’s diverse population, including single people, couples, families, youth, seniors, and people with disabilities. 3. Establish proactive and effective partnerships with local community-based organizations that have relationships, trust, and cultural competency with Bay Point communities to assist with outreach for local initiatives and issues and expand engagement efforts to schools and community centers. 4. Proactively enforce County codes to support community beautification and safety, curb illegal dumping, improve trash collection, and remove graffiti. Encourage improved community appearance through graffiti removal, litter reduction, street and sidewalk maintenance, abatement of illegal dumping, and code enforcement. 5. Support implementation of the 2020 Pittsburg/Bay Point Community-Based Transportation Plan. 6. Encourage neighborhood-oriented shopping and services to be developed within walking distance of housing. 7. Actively seek and incentivize commercial development, including grocery stores, on vacant lots near the BART station while avoiding concentrating all development along Willow Pass Road. 8. Encourage assembly of parcels in medium or higher density residential areas to allow for higher-quality, denser residential development, including adequate infrastructure for drainage and traffic. (3-79; 3-86) 9. Minimize the number of streets and driveways intersecting or entering Willow Pass Road by using secondary roads, assembling frontage parcels, using shared access on abutting properties, and/or other approaches. (3-78(b); 3-80; 3-85; 3-86) Page 82Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 BAY POINT - GUIDANCE - 8 POLICIES (CONTINUED) 10. Improve commercial visibility on Willow Pass Road by controlling the placement, design, number, and size of new signs to convey business identity without being visually disruptive. (3-80(d)) 11. Support ARPD efforts to meet the community’s recreation needs effectively and efficiently. 12. Engage with schools, non-profit organizations, and faith-based organizations to recognize and work with at-risk youth to support their meaningful growth. 13. Support healthy relationships between the community and law enforcement. 14. Support proposals for high-quality redevelopment of McAvoy Harbor. 15. Encourage existing liquor stores, convenience stores, and ethnic markets to stock fresh produce and other healthy foods. ACTIONS 1. Clean up major illegal dumping sites at Port Chicago Highway and Driftwood Drive and along Pullman Avenue and Suisun Avenue and pursue stricter enforcement with higher penalties and improved regulation. 2. Conduct education and outreach to inform residents about proper waste disposal opportunities beyond curbside trash and recycling collection. Promote vehicle donation opportunities for unwanted vehicles. 3. Prepare and implement streetscape plans for Willow Pass Road, Bailey Road, and other streets that include protected bike lanes, speed bumps, stop signs, cameras, upgraded sidewalks (including widening and closing gaps), street trees, and landscaping to slow traffic and enhance transit corridors. Streetscape plans should also address on-street parking, traffic movements, and transit facilities. If appropriate, revise precise alignment plans for consistency with the streetscape plans. (3-80(e)). 4. Install pedestrian-scale lighting throughout the community to enhance safety and deter crime. ACTIONS (CONTINUED) 5. Work with BART, Tri-Delta Transit, and County Connection to: a. Improve the coordination of bus and BART arrival and departure times. b. Create more frequent and direct bus routes and connections to connect residents with BART. c. Extend first- and last-mile services with micro-mobility infrastructure for BART commuters. d. Increase ADA-accessible options on public transit. 6. When coordinating with the ARPD, highlight the following goals identified by the community: a. Expand sports programs and after-school activities. b. Develop new youth recreation opportunities through bike trails, a new skate park, and a youth center. c. Locate facilities to ensure visibility along public roadways where appropriate. d. Provide clear access points. e. Plant appropriate vegetation that provides shade and aesthetic benefits. f. Maintain vegetation and regularly clean up trash to maximize visibility and demonstrate active attention to each park. g. Install more lighting to improve visibility. h. Use signage to clearly convey site ownership and rules. 7. Use the County’s outreach platforms to promote available park and recreation services and programs, based on information provided by the ARPD. 8. Work with the East Bay Regional Park District to develop a trail network connecting Bay Point residents to nature, recreation opportunities, the waterfront, and regional destinations. 9. Create a mural or public art program to provide a positive alternative and deterrent to graffiti. 10. Conduct outreach about the negative effects of old pipes and water fixtures on water quality in older homes. Page 83Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Situated in eastern Contra Costa County at the heart of the Delta, Bethel Island has welcomed visitors and new residents alike since the 1930s. For nearly a century, residents have been attracted to this island community for its water- related recreational activities and agricultural assets. Bethel Island’s marinas were developed to capitalize on a growing interest in the community’s warm waters and relaxed, rural atmosphere, away from the urban bustle of San Francisco Bay. The residents of Bethel Island today cross the Bethel Island Bridge, replaced in 2009, to get to and from home. This singular ingress and egress to the 5.5-square-mile island limits development, but also causes roadway congestion during commute hours. Given the island’s low elevation, there are also significant flooding and levee maintenance issues, as well as a need for improved infrastructure to address hazards. Proud of their local tourism industry and water-oriented amenities, Bethel Island residents would like to further enhance the marinas with more retail uses, increased parking, and more family-oriented and/or water-related annual community events. The community also seeks to retain and enhance local agricultural vibrancy and character. The community is strongly opposed to development of heavy industrial uses but is amenable to a limited amount of light industry. BETHEL ISLAND - CONTEXT - 1 Source: Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. (Community-submitted photo.) 0 Scale (Miles) 1 WHO LIVES IN BETHEL ISLAND? Median Age VS 36 years old in Bethel Island 40 years old inContra Costa County Median Household Income VS $78,500 in Bethel Island $103,997inContra Costa County Race & Ethnicity ►58% White ►25% Hispanic or Latino ►9% Black or African American ►4% Asian Average Life Expectancy VS 78 years old in Bethel Island 81 years old inContra Costa County Page 84Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 BETHEL ISLAND - CONTEXT - 2 HAZARDS Agricultural Pests and Diseases Air Quality Coastal Flood Drought Extreme Heat Flooding Human Health Hazards Seismic Hazards (Liquefaction) Sea Level Rise Severe Storm MAJOR VULNERABILITIES Cost-burdened households, households in poverty, and persons with chronic illnesses are vulnerable to coastal flooding. The entire community is on a single access road connected via a bridge, leaving it vulnerable to coastal flooding, flooding, sea level rise, and severe storms. Outdoor recreation and rangeland in the community are vulnerable to coastal flooding and sea level rise. Commercial and government buildings along Bethel Island Road, Stone Road, Willow Road, and Taylor Road are vulnerable to sea level rise. The island is vulnerable to liquefaction created by seismic hazards. The information on this page presents a summary of hazards and vulnerabilities in Bethel Island based on the Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment; please see the online Vulnerability Assessment for a full description of these hazards and vulner- abilities FLOOD ZONES 0 Scale (Miles) 1 Source: FEMA, 2019; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. A 100-year flood zone represents a 1% chance of flooding in any given year. A 500-year flood zone represents a 0.2% chance of flooding in any given year. SEA-LEVEL RISE 0 1 Scale (Miles) Source: San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission, 2017; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. Page 85Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 BETHEL ISLAND - GUIDANCE - 3 GUIDING PRINCIPLES The following guiding principles articulate the values, priorities, and aspirations for the future shared by Bethel Island community members: 1. Bethel Island residents enjoy a relaxed, rural community located away from urban areas of San Francisco and the East Bay. The small-town, family-oriented atmosphere and quiet character should be preserved. 2. Local businesses, including tourism and water-oriented recreation amenities, are an asset to the community and should be supported. There should be more opportunities for new local businesses, such as a grocery store, to provide services to the community. 3. To maintain a safe community, public services such as the Contra Costa Fire Protection District and Sheriff’s Office should be supported and enhanced. 4. Bethel Island’s topography and location within the Delta expose it to potential flooding hazards. The community should be protected from these and other hazards through proper emergency response planning and infrastructure upgrades. PLANNED LAND USE Land use designations for Bethel Island are shown on Figure LU-1, General Plan Land Use Map, and are defined in the Land Use Element. The majority of Bethel Island is planned to preserve its rural open space character and support and enhance local tourism business and water- oriented recreation. Most of the area is designated for agricultural, commercial recreation, and resource conservation uses. The commercial core of Bethel Island is located along Bethel Island Road and supports public, recreation, and residential uses. This core is envisioned to expand east along Gateway Road to allow for more retail uses, increased parking, and community events, enhancing community character and vibrancy. The perimeter of the island will continue to host most of the community’s residential neighborhoods. Existing marina in Bethel Island. Existing agricultural uses in Bethel Island. Residential street in the community. Existing single-family home in Bethel Island. Page 86Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 BETHEL ISLAND - GUIDANCE - 4 POLICIES 1. Retain the characteristics of Bethel Island that make it a unique Delta community by limiting development to a low overall density and supporting uses that enhance the rural, relaxed, water-oriented character. (3-64) 2. Preserve and protect agriculture, open space, wetlands, and rare plant communities found on Bethel Island. (3-64) 3. Encourage rehabilitation of distressed properties, including improving aging structures and reducing vegetation overgrowth, both on land and along waterways. 4. To the extent permitted by State law, limit new residential development to already- approved development and one dwelling unit per legal parcel. (3-56) 5. Do not approve General Plan Amendments that would increase residential density unless at least the following are accomplished: a. A financing mechanism is fully and completely assured for improvements to the entire perimeter on-island levee system. b. The levee improvement plans are approved by the Bethel Island Municipal Improvement District (BIMID) and the Army Corps of Engineers. c. Subsidence and impacts on wetlands are adequately mitigated. (3-57) 6. Prohibit levee breaches unless the entire perimeter levee is improved to Army Corps of Engineers standards. (3-58) 7. Require that any internal levees meet Army Corps of Engineers standards. (3-60) 8. Require that new construction be set back from levee centerlines a minimum of 100 feet unless adequate substantiation for reduction is approved by Reclamation District 799 or BIMID. (3-60) 9. Require that any new construction that is not protected by certified levees meets FEMA standards. (3-60) POLICIES (CONTINUED) 10. Establish Bethel Island Road between Dutch Slough and Gateway Road, and Gateway Road between Bethel Island Road and Piper Road, as the community’s commercial core. 11. Encourage establishment and growth of locally serving businesses that fulfill the needs of Bethel Island residents. 12. Allow temporary uses, such as food trucks, pop-up restaurants, retail shops, and recreation equipment rentals, to provide visitor-serving amenities during special events like fishing tournaments and the annual lighted boat parade. 13. Prioritize roadway improvements to reduce traffic congestion on Bethel Island and directly connected public roads. Incorporate pedestrian, bicycle, and stormwater infrastructure improvements when feasible to improve safety and facilitate mobility throughout the island. ACTIONS 1. Identify suitable locations for additional park and recreation facilities, including kid-friendly amenities such as play structures, an expanded community gathering space, and a public access point to the water, potentially with a boat ramp. 2. Encourage the Diablo Water District to examine the feasibility of annexing Bethel Island into their service area to improve access to a reliable source of water for fire protection services and general consumption. 3. Improve signage along waterways to minimize boat wakes and reduce accidents. 4. Explore the feasibility of a centralized parking area in the commercial core. 006 007 Page 87Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #006 Posted by Dan Muelrath - Diablo Water District on 01/24/2024 at 10:34am [Comment ID: 29] - Link Suggestion Agree: 1, Disagree: 0 The District is already 2 years into a multi-year study to voluntarily consolidate independent water mutuals on the island, which would bring Diablo Water District's water mains / fire hydrants throughout the island. Con Fire should be encourage to help find funding for these efforts. Without state/federal funding this project is cost prohibitive. #007 Posted by Mary Rose on 01/26/2024 at 3:35pm [Comment ID: 30] - Link Suggestion Agree: 1, Disagree: 0 Drinking water on Bethel Island is at the state allowed requirement for arsenic. This action item should be one of the top priorities at Contra Costa County! It’s a more than a basic human right to have drinking water for our families that does not poison us! Please somehow highlight this to a higher priority for East County! Please, change our lives for the better… Page 88Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Located near the eastern edge of the county, Byron is an agricultural community that prides itself on its rural roots. The area’s fertile soil supported its initial settlement as a farming center. In 1878, Byron was the site of a new Southern Pacific railroad line that allowed the community to quickly expand. Early Byron attracted visitors from across the nation to the renowned Byron Hot Springs. This resort featured warm mineral pools and luxury accommodations prior to its closure during World War II. In 1994, the County opened Byron Airport, providing opportunities for general avia- tion and recreational flight operations. Now an established community, residents enjoy the area’s respite from busy city life, preferring Byron’s small-town nature. Businesses in Byron are generally concentrated in the downtown along Camino Diablo and the Byron Highway. However, business development and retention has been challenging. The County’s Urban Limit Line (ULL) prohibits growth outside of Byron, preserving this land for farming and open space. Residents identify the surrounding agricultural land as a part of their community, although a lack of trail connections prevents residents from accessing potential recreational benefits. While growth is constrained by the ULL, traffic through the community to nearby cities has continued to grow, impacting local roads and safety. Key roadway projects, like the Vasco Road Byron Highway Connector project, may improve connections and accommodate increased traffic throughout the area. Community members in Byron are also concerned about housing affordability and homelessness. BYRON - CONTEXT - 1 WHO LIVES IN BYRON? Median Age VS 35 years old in Byron 40 years old inContra Costa County Median Household Income VS $79,500 in Byron $103,997inContra Costa County Race & Ethnicity ►62% White ►32% Hispanic or Latino ►2% Black or African American ►2% Asian Average Life Expectancy VS 78 years old in Byron 81 years old inContra Costa County 10 Scale (Miles) Source: Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. 008 Page 89Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #008 Posted by Nathan Hill on 01/26/2024 at 6:57pm [Comment ID: 31] - Link Question Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 On the Byron Community Profile map, there are three existing bikeways shown: two in Byron, one in the southeast corner. As of Feb '23 there's no bike lane on Camino Diablo, so I don't think that bikeway exists. The one that runs parallel to the Byron Highway I can't find whatsoever. There's farms and houses in the way. The one in SE along the aqueduct does exist, but I understand it's been closed for a long time. Are these supposed to be future bikeways? Page 90Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 BYRON - CONTEXT - 2 MAJOR VULNERABILITIES Outdoor workers are vulnerable to all hazards in Byron. The Byron Airport is vulnerable to coastal flooding, extreme heat, flooding, and severe storms. The Byron Highway is vulnerable to coastal flooding, flooding, extreme heat, and severe storms. Agricultural operations are vulnerable to agricultural pests and diseases, coastal flooding, drought, extreme heat, flooding, and severe storms. Water and wastewater services are vulnerable to coastal flooding, drought, and severe storms. Energy delivery systems, such as high-voltage transmission lines, are vulnerable to extreme heat and severe storms. HAZARDS Agricultural pests and diseases Air quality Coastal flooding Drought Extreme heat Flooding Human health hazards Severe storms FLOOD HAZARDS The information on this page presents a summary of hazards and vulnerabilities in Byron based on the Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment; please see the online Vulnerability Assessment for a full description of these hazards and vulnerabilities. Agricultural operations are vulnerable to hazards like pests and diseases, flooding, drought, heat, and storms. The Byron Airport and Byron Highway are vulnerable to hazards like flooding, heat, and storms. Source: FEMA, 2019; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. A 100-year flood zone represents a 1% chance of flood- ing in any given year. A 500-year flood zone represents a 0.2% chance of flooding in any given yea 10 Scale (Miles) Page 91Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 PLANNED LAND USE Land use designations for Byron are shown on Figure LU-1, General Plan Land Use Map, and are defined in the Land Use Element. Downtown Byron, which encompasses the triangle-shaped area bounded by Byron Highway, Camino Diablo, and Holway Drive, is designated for Mixed- Use, allowing business uses that both manufacture and sell goods and services, particularly those that exemplify the historic and agricultural roots of the community. Residential uses will also continue in parts of this downtown area. Main Street is planned primarily for commercial uses that support redevelopment, provide a wide array of services for residents, and boost local tourism. Commercial and other light industrial uses are allowed at Byron Highway’s major intersections with Holway Drive and Camino Diablo. Outside the downtown and commercial core but within the Urban Limit Line (ULL), the Land Use Map indicates continued residential uses at a variety of densities, as well as public and airport-related uses around the Byron Airport to the south. Beyond the ULL, the map indicates continuation of the agricultural, open space, recreation, and public uses that already exist, along with potential development of renewable energy facilities. GUIDING PRINCIPLES The following guiding principles articulate the values, priorities, and aspirations for the future shared by Byron community members: 1. Byron’s rural, small-town character should be preserved, in part by supporting amenities like the post office, saloon, schools, churches, and surrounding open spaces. 2. Byron’s downtown should be re-energized by filling empty storefronts and providing more businesses and services that make the area a center of activity again. 3. Byron should attract regional tourists by fulfilling its potential as a historic, railroad, winery, and agricultural tourism destination, as well as through creative re-use of Byron Hot Springs. 4. Roadways should be safe for all users, including pedestrians, bicyclists, and drivers. Sidewalks and bike lanes should be added in central Byron. Safety improvements should be made along Byron Highway, the Highway 4 Bypass, Camino Diablo, and the Byer Road/Bixler Road corner. 5. Trucks should be directed around Byron to minimize safety and noise impacts to residents. 6. Regional travel should be improved through projects like the Vasco Road Byron Highway Connector Road project. 7. Housing growth should be deliberate, incremental, and supportive of the community’s economic development goals. 8. Residents who lack housing should be treated with dignity and respect and have access to quality services. Vital, easy-to-access community programs related to homelessness, rehabilitation, education and training, youth, and elderly services should be available. Residents who are at risk of losing housing should be protected from displacement. 9. Redevelopment and development should align with the community’s rural character. 10. Byron’s residents should be able to enjoy hiking, biking, and equestrian access to regional parks through a connected trail network. BYRON - GUIDANCE - 3 Existing residential neighborhood in Byron.Existing airport-related use at the Byron Airport. Existing agricultural use outside the ULL around Byron.Existing commercial use at the intersection of the Byron Highway and Camino Diablo. Page 92Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 POLICIES 1. Encourage business development that supports a full range of services for residents and is tailored to Byron’s small-town character. 2. Encourage creative, compatible residential and commercial development on vacant parcels within Byron’s existing footprint. 3. Attract small businesses and facilitate community events downtown. 4. Maintain and enforce regulations to curb illegal dumping and littering. 5. Encourage reuse of the previously developed portion of the Byron Hot Springs property in a way that is compatible with operations at Byron Airport, rehabilitates historic buildings, attracts regional tourists, and is not growth inducing. 6. Support agriculture, including animal keeping and raising, as an important part of Byron’s character. 7. Encourage CCTA to prioritize the completion of the Vasco Road Byron Highway Connector Road project. 8. Address traffic conflicts and safety concerns around U-Pick areas, including along Marsh Creek Road, Vasco Road, and Walnut Boulevard, with consideration to agricultural equipment on roads. 9. Ensure that development projects do not conflict with potential alignments for the Vasco Road Byron Highway Connector Road/State Route 239 project, as shown in Figure TR-3, Roadway Classifications, in the Transportation Element. 10. Support community efforts to establish a community services district to provide basic services to Byron. BYRON - GUIDANCE - 4 ACTIONS 1. Work with local businesses and community groups to establish an economic development strategy for Byron that includes guidance for on-going coordination of economic development efforts in the community. As part of this process, create a unique branding identity for Byron to support agricultural tourism. 2. Adopt zoning that provides more flexibility for downtown development, including relaxing parking requirements when street parking is available and expanding allowed uses to include light manufacturing for businesses that both manufacture and sell products on-site. 3. Install sidewalks and bikeways with street trees, signage, and crosswalks that connect downtown Byron to Byron Park and Saint Anne Church. 4. Maintain street trees in downtown Byron to support walkability and a more vibrant downtown. 5. Study the feasibility and need for traffic calming along Byron’s roadways. 6. Upon completion of the Vasco Road-Byron Highway Connector Road, designate a truck route to separate truck traffic from other modes of transportation, including around U-Pick agricultural areas, such as along Marsh Creek Road, Vasco Road, and Walnut Boulevard. 7. Work with local and regional stakeholders to develop a trails plan that provides local and regional trail connections for Byron, including trails that connect to local destinations like Byron Hot Springs and trails that provide regional connections to recreational and commute destinations. As part of the planning process, consider potential recreational re-use along railroad rights-of-way as well as strategies to effectively communicate trail information to the public. (3-76) Page 93Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Canyon, one of the oldest communities in the East Bay, is hidden among stands of second-growth redwoods, oaks, and madrone on the eastern slopes of the Oakland/ Berkeley Hills in western Contra Costa County. The earliest known construction in the area was a logging camp built in the 1850s. At the time California became a State, there were more registered voters in Canyon than in other East Bay precincts. Several subdivisions were planned in Canyon between 1912 and 1926. Canyon Elementary School was established in 1918, Canyon Post Office and General Store in 1922. Associations were formed to cooperatively maintain the private roads and water supplies. The Canyon Community Association was organized in 1924 as the town’s governing body and provides locally elected leadership to the present day. The population of Canyon rose in the 1930s and 1940s as urban families occupied their summer homes permanently. In the 1950s, East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) acquired much of the land for watershed and tore down many homes. The remaining homes are accessible by narrow private roads and trails. Many households are intergenerational, with strong support for older residents. Canyon School serves as a vibrant community center and continues to provide an excellent K-8 curriculum with a small-school focus on environmental education and the arts. Pinehurst Road, the only public thoroughfare in and out of Canyon, remains one of the only east-west access routes over the Oakland/Berkeley Hills. Canyon residents maintain good relationships with EBMUD, and collaborate extensively with the Moraga-Orinda Fire Department on fire mitigation goals. Land use in Canyon includes residential, a small number of public uses, watershed, and open space. Canyon residents value their riparian environment, with a firm commitment to the health of the local watershed and protected species. CANYON - CONTEXT - 1 Source: Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022.0 Scale (Miles) .6WHO LIVES IN CANYON? Median Age VS 47 years old in Canyon 40 years old inContra Costa County Median Household Income VS $129,167 in Canyon $103,997inContra Costa County Race & Ethnicity ►70% White ►17% Asian ►2% Hispanic or Latino ►0% Black or African American Average Life Expectancy VS no data in Canyon 81 years old inContra Costa County 009 Page 94Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #009 Posted by ellin barret on 10/19/2023 at 9:55am [Comment ID: 7] - Link Question Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 The community description for Canyon is an old first draft by consultants and is NOT the one written by the community. Page 95Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 CANYON - CONTEXT - 2 HAZARDS Drought Extreme heat Fog Human health hazards Landslides Seismic hazards Severe storms Wildfire MAJOR VULNERABILITIES The entire community is on a single access road (Pinehurst Road), and thus is vulnerable to landslides and wildfire. These vulnerabilities are exacerbated by limited cell phone coverage, which can inhibit emergency response and communication during a Public Safety Power Shutoff or other event that results in a loss of power to the community. Children are vulnerable to extreme heat, human health hazards, and wildfire. Cost-burdened households are vulnerable to drought, extreme heat, landslides, seismic hazards, severe storms, and wildfire. Canyon Elementary School and the US Post Office are vulnerable to landslides, seismic hazards, severe storms, and wildfire. San Leandro Creek, an aquatic habitat, is vulnerable to drought, extreme heat, and landslides. LANDSLIDES The information on this page presents a summary of hazards and vulnerabilities in Canyon based on the Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment; please see the online Vulnerability Assessment for a full description of these hazards and vulnerabilities. WILDFIRE 0 Scale (Miles) .6 0 Scale (Miles) .6 Source: CAL FIRE, 2018; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. Source: California Geologic Survey, 2008; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. Page 96Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Redwood forests dominate the landscape around Canyon.Remnants of an old gas station in Canyon. CANYON - GUIDANCE - 3 PLANNED LAND USE Land use designations for Canyon are shown on Figure LU-1, General Plan Land Use Map, and are defined in the Land Use Element. The community is planned for continued residential and agricultural use at existing densities, surrounded by protected watersheds and regional parkland. GUIDING PRINCIPLES The following guiding principles articulate the values, priorities, and aspirations for the future shared by Canyon community members: 1. Canyon is one of the oldest established communities in the East Bay. Its evolution has been organic and much of its growth occurred prior to current development regulations. The community’s rich history, including the various phases of its development, should be understood and appreciated. 2. Residents identify their undeveloped surroundings as one of the most valuable assets of this area. Preservation of the natural setting, including scenic ridgelines, hillsides, creeks, trees, and wildlife habitat, should be prioritized. 3. Residents enjoy informal trails through the redwood trees and value their direct access to open space. Trails and walking paths should be preserved and protected. 4. Canyon’s steep topography, secluded location, and singular access via Pinehurst Road expose the community to potentially severe impacts from wildfires, landslides, and earthquakes. These hazards should be mitigated through proper planning and emergency response efforts. 5. Canyon’s small-town character, independence, and creativity should be celebrated. The unique history of many homes, the Canyon School, and Post Office buildings should be acknowledged and cultivated for future generations. 6. Canyon’s community-mindedness, relative affordability, and family-friendliness should be supported. Page 97Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 CANYON - GUIDANCE - 4 POLICIES 1. Respect legally established parcels, roads and access trails, and setbacks for homes and accessory buildings. Work collaboratively with the community to address issues specific to individual parcels, ingress/egress options, and applicability of and conformance with current development standards. 2. Protect the environment in Canyon by prohibiting development and land uses that disrupt its natural surroundings or negatively impact wildlife habitat. 3. Support new residential development that preserves and aligns with Canyon’s character and history, which includes varying lot sizes and setbacks and innovative and often hand-built architecture. Respect Canyon’s historical development pattern and unique natural characteristics, including its topography and dense tree cover, when processing variances and other discretionary permits. 4. Support establishment of reliable community-wide internet access. 5. Improve public roadway infrastructure in a way that balances public safety and the needs of users with the desire to maintain Canyon’s rural character and privacy. ACTIONS 1. Improve communication and outreach so that Canyon residents can be more engaged in decisions affecting their community. 2. Coordinate with the Canyon community and public safety and health agencies to create a comprehensive emergency response plan, including establishing evacuation routes and procedures and an emergency refuge, possibly at the Canyon Elementary School. 3. Establish consistency between the General Plan and zoning in Canyon by rezoning the portion of the community designated R-20 Single-Family Residential District to A-3 Heavy Agricultural District or its successor zoning district. If possible in the future, amend the General Plan land use designation and zoning to accurately represent and respect Canyon’s unique topographical characteristics and historical development pattern, including existing and historical uses, buildings, structures, lot sizes, roadways, and open spaces, while protecting public health, safety, and general welfare. This may include adoption of Planned Unit District zoning with tailored development and design regulations that reflect and facilitate existing and anticipated land uses in Canyon and support the unique, historic community’s rural residential character. 4. Work with the Canyon community to ensure that future development and land uses minimize impact on wildlife habitat and natural surroundings. 5. Address stormwater drainage issues and illegal dumping concerns, particularly along Pinehurst Road. 6. Work with transit providers to expand public transportation to include Canyon. 7. Add Canyon to the Contra Costa Historic Resources Inventory. 8. Develop long-term solutions to address traffic congestion and vehicle speed on Pinehurst Road, particularly “cut-through” rush hour traffic. Maintain and enforce speed limits in school zones and improve Pinehurst Road to minimize road hazards. 9. Develop turnarounds needed by emergency vehicles along Pinehurst Road and Canyon Road. Page 98Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Clyde is located 3 miles from downtown Concord on the east side of the Port Chicago Highway, north of Highway 4. The community is entirely within the City of Concord’s Sphere of Influence and is also included in the Concord General Plan, although Concord has no plans to annex Clyde at this time. The community was founded in 1917 as a company town for the Pacific Coast Shipbuilding Company. In the waning years of World War I, worker housing was needed to support the Port Chicago shipyards a few miles to the north. Bernard Maybeck was the supervising architect; he oversaw the design of 140 of the initial homes as well as a 176-room hotel. Clyde was designed along a rectangular grid roughly two blocks wide and four blocks long, with north-south alleys between the blocks. The town was named for the River Clyde in Scotland, a place renowned for its shipyards. Clyde’s future was imperiled by the 1944 Port Chicago explosion and subsequent decline of the Port Chicago community. Following the closure of the shipyards, Clyde became a residential enclave surrounded by industrial and military uses. While these uses isolated Clyde from Concord and Bay Point, they also contributed to its strong sense of identity. The community added about 70 homes during the 1990s in the Clyde Commons subdivision, but otherwise has remained stable. There are a few small parks, a community center, and roughly 370 homes. County Service Area M-16 maintains Clyde’s parks, recreation areas, and landscaping. CLYDE - CONTEXT - 1 WHO LIVES IN CLYDE? Median Age VS 41 years old in Clyde 40 years old inContra Costa County Median Household Income VS $86,288 in Clyde $103,997inContra Costa County Race & Ethnicity ►37% White ►31% Hispanic or Latino ►16% Black or African American ►11% Asian Average Life Expectancy VS 79 years old in Clyde 81 years old inContra Costa County Source: Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. 0 Scale (Miles) .3 Page 99Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 CLYDE - CONTEXT - 2 FLOOD ZONES 0 Scale (Miles) .3 Source: FEMA, 2019; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. WILDFIRE 0 Scale (Miles) .3 Source: CAL FIRE, 2018; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. HAZARDS Air quality Coastal flooding Drought Extreme heat Flooding Human health hazards Severe storms Sea level rise Wildfire MAJOR VULNERABILITIES The entire community is on a single access road, and thus is vulnerable to coastal flooding, flooding, severe storms, and wildfire. Persons with chronic illnesses are vulnerable to poor air quality, extreme heat, and human health hazards such as potentially contaminated soil. Cost-burdened households and low-income households are vulnerable to all hazards in the community. Public safety and emergency medical response are vulnerable to coastal flooding, flooding, severe storms, and wildfire. Water and wastewater services are vulnerable to coastal flooding, drought, flooding, and sea level rise. The information on this page presents a summary of hazards and vulnerabilities in Clyde based on the Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment; please see the online Vulnerability Assessment for a full description of these hazards and vulnerabilities. A 100-year flood zone represents a 1% chance of flooding in any given year. A 500-year flood zone represents a 0.2% chance of flooding in any given year Page 100Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 CLYDE - CONTEXT - 3 IMPACTED COMMUNITY The County has identified Clyde as an Impacted Community under Senate Bill (SB) 1000, which requires the County to integrate environmental justice into the General Plan. This law is based on the understanding that some communities have experienced a combination of historic discrimination, negligence, and political and economic disempowerment. Often, this has resulted in a disproportionate burden of pollution and health impacts and disproportionate social and economic disadvantages in these communities. The 21 indicators that contribute to Clyde’s identification as an Impacted Community are highlighted in the chart to the right, with additional details provided in the maps that follow, based on State data from CalEnviroScreen. The chart shows how the Census tract encompassing Clyde ranks for each indicator compared to the rest of the state. The County identifies Impacted Communities as those where the combined ranking for all factors is 72 percent or higher. Clyde has been close to heavy industrial land uses since its founding. Chemical pollutants from these industries have contaminated the surrounding soil and water, and there is a high concentration of clean-up sites near the community. The community also has high rates of asthma-related hospital visits compared to the rest of the state; this is often associated with proximity to heavy industry and traffic. Major industrial facilities near Clyde include the Martinez Refinery Company, the Contra Costa Hazardous Materials disposal facility, and the Military Ocean Terminal – Concord (MOTCO). Residents have raised concerns about foul odors coming from the refinery along with poor air quality caused by heavy industrial land uses. Also among the top concerns for residents are the lack of affordable housing in the area and the resulting increase in homelessness, lack of access to nearby open space, and poor drainage near Port Chicago, resulting in standing water and associated health risks, including mosquitos. IMPACTED COMMUNITY INDICATORS (2021) Ranking of Most Impacted Census Tract in Clyde Relative to the State Air Quality: Ozone Concentration Air Quality: Fine Particle (PM2.5) Concentration Diesel Particulate Matter Emissions Concentration of Toxic Releases Traffic Density Pesticide Use Concentration of Drinking Water Contaminants Children's Lead Risk from Housing Concentration of Clean Up Sites Susceptibility to Groundwater Threats Density of Hazardous Waste Facilities Proximity to Impaired Water Bodies Proximity to Solid Waste Sites Asthma-Induced Emergency Room Visits Low Birth Weight Infants Heart Attack-Induced Emergency Room Visits Population Without a High School Degree Limited English Speaking Households Poverty Relative Unemployment Housing Burdened Low Income Households 0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70% 72% 80%90%100% 21% 29% 91% 0% 38% 23% 95% 94% 89% 87% 64% 96% 36% 34% 46% 57% 81% 82% 57% 18% 61% Page 101Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 CLYDE - CONTEXT - 4 Source: CalEnviroscreen, 2021; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022.Source: CalEnviroscreen, 2021; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. 0 Scale (Miles) .30 Scale (Miles) .3 TRAFFIC DENSITY HAZARDOUS WASTE FACILITIES This map ranks Census tracts based on the density of traffic, which is a measure of the number of vehicles on the roads in an area. Traffic density is associated with poor air quality. Parts of Clyde are ranked at 91 percent, meaning that the area has a traffic density that is worse than 91 percent of the state. This map ranks Census tracts based on the concentration of hazardous waste facilities and generators, considering each facility’s type and permit status and generator activities. Parts of Clyde are ranked at 89 percent, meaning that the area has a concentration of hazardous waste facilities and generators that is worse than 89 percent of the state. Page 102Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 GUIDING PRINCIPLES The following guiding principles articulate the values, priorities, and aspirations for the future shared by Clyde community members: 1. Clyde is a quiet and cohesive community. Its small-town community-mindedness, relative affordability, and family-friendly amenities should be preserved and supported. 2. Residents enjoy Clyde’s central location within Contra Costa County and the Bay Area. Quality access to local and regional destinations via multiple transportation modes and major highways should be maintained and enhanced. 3. The rolling hills adjacent to Clyde provide an inviting natural backdrop to the community and should be maintained in a generally undeveloped state. 4. Clyde residents should be safe and healthy while living adjacent to both heavy industry and MOTCO. Risks from industrial or military accidents and exposure to air pollutants and odors should be monitored and mitigated. POLICIES 1. Prioritize the health and safety of Clyde residents living adjacent to heavy industry and MOTCO. 2. Expand access to local and regional parks and recreational facilities, such as the Delta de Anza Regional Trail and future Concord Hills Regional Park. 3. Require new residential development to be compatible with existing architecture to the extent possible, and to plant trees while preserving views of the bay and other natural landscapes. Single-family housing in Clyde.Adjacent agricultural land. Community park in Clyde.Industrial uses in Clyde. CLYDE - GUIDANCE - 5 PLANNED LAND USE Land use designations for Clyde are shown on Figure LU-1, General Plan Land Use Map, and are defined in the Land Use Element. Most of the community is planned for continued residential use at a density consistent with existing development. This community is primarily residential, with a handful of light industrial parcels at its southern edge. Heavy industrial lands directly west of Clyde are buffered through an open space designation along the west side of Port Chicago Highway. This buffer zone is intended to remain undeveloped. Directly east of Clyde are large agricultural parcels owned by the United States government and private landowners. These lands, characterized by primarily undeveloped rolling hills, are planned to remain in agricultural use. Page 103Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 CLYDE - GUIDANCE - 6 ACTIONS 1. Establish a comprehensive, long-term strategy that coordinates efforts from all regulatory agencies to mitigate the impacts of surrounding uses on the community, both acute and long-term. 2. Improve pedestrian and community safety, including closing sidewalk gaps and incorporating better lighting. 3. Coordinate with East Bay Regional Park District and Contra Costa Water District to enhance Clyde’s bicycle and pedestrian connections to local and regional trails and open spaces. This should include a bikeway along Port Chicago Highway connecting to the countywide bicycle network. 4. Work with the Public Works Department to improve maintenance of County parks in the vicinity of Clyde. 5. Encourage tree planting, beautification projects, and a bicycle and pedestrian path along the Contra Costa Canal, including a future connection to Concord Hills Regional Park. Page 104Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Situated between Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek, and Concord, Contra Costa Centre is a bustling transit center adjacent to the Pleasant Hill/Contra Costa Centre BART station. The community has a diverse mix of land uses ranging from low-density single-family homes to very high- density multi-family uses and BART-oriented mixed use. The community’s vision is to be a cutting edge, mixed-use neighborhood that serves all types of households and provides convenient services, safe outdoor public spaces, and multiple transportation choices. In particular, residents support more transit-oriented infill development that is concentrated and sustainable, addressing the growing need for regional transit. The community enjoys living within walking distance of restaurants and outdoor gathering spaces or parks, and would like its walkable, mixed-use character to be enhanced. The Iron Horse Trail runs north-south through Contra Costa Centre and provides opportunities for high-quality outdoor recreation. Residents use this trail for a wide variety of trips ranging from active commutes to family outings. Connecting parks, schools, and transit with a network of trails is a high priority for Contra Costa Centre residents. In addition, traffic safety is a primary concern. Residents support changing the streetscape to slow traffic while enhancing transportation options. CONTRA COSTA CENTRE - CONTEXT - 1 WHO LIVES IN CONTRA COSTA CENTRE? Median Age VS 38 years old in Contra Costa Centre 40 years old inContra Costa County Median Household Income VS $114,929 in Contra Costa Centre $103,997inContra Costa County Race & Ethnicity ►64% White ►19% Asian ►11% Hispanic or Latino ►1% Black or African American Average Life Expectancy VS 85 years old in Contra Costa Centre 81 years old inContra Costa County 0 Scale (Miles) .5 Source: Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. Page 105Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 CONTRA COSTA CENTRE - CONTEXT - 2 Major Vulnerabilities Seniors, including those living alone, and children are vulnerable to poor air quality, extreme heat, human health hazards, and wildfire. Low-income persons, renters, and cost-burdened households are vulnerable to drought, extreme heat, flooding, seismic hazards, severe storms, and wildfire. Interstate 680, Treat Boulevard, N. Civic Drive, and Cherry Lane are vulnerable to seismic hazards and fallen trees from severe storms. Seven Hills School and medical centers in the community are vulnerable to flooding, seismic hazards, severe storms, and wildfire. Safety and medical responses and public transit access are vulnerable to flooding, seismic hazards, severe storms, and wildfire. Hazards Air quality Drought Extreme heat Flooding Human health hazards Seismic hazards Severe storms Wildfire Drought, earthquakes, and wildfire are all hazards in Contra Costa Centre. The information on this page presents a sum- mary of hazards and vulnerabilities in Contra Costa Centre based on the Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment; please see the online Vulnerability Assessment for a full description of these hazards and vulnerabilities. Source: FEMA, 2019; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. 0 Scale (Miles) .5 FLOOD HAZARDS A 100-year flood zone represents a 1% chance of flooding in any given year. A 500-year flood zone represents a 0.2% chance of flooding in any given year.Page 106Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 PLANNED LAND USE Land use designations for Contra Costa Centre are shown on Figure LU-1, General Plan Land Use Map, and are defined in the Land Use Element. Contra Costa Centre aims to be a model for mixed-use neighborhoods, while maintaining and enhancing its identity as a safe, family friendly, walkable community. An expanded mixed-use area will attract more opportunities for innovative infill development and further improve connectivity to BART, nearby trails, and the community’s multiple uses. Beyond the mixed-use area, the map indicates continuation of residential uses at a variety of densities, along with new transit-oriented infill development. GUIDING PRINCIPLES The following guiding principles articulate the values, priorities, and aspirations for the future shared by Contra Costa Centre community members: 1. Residents of Contra Costa Centre enjoy convenient access to public transit through the BART station and numerous bus lines. This access to public transit provides an easy alternative to automobile travel and access to the rest of the Bay Area from within their own neighborhood. 2. Residents also enjoy convenient access to outdoor recreation, including the Iron Horse Trail and Contra Costa Canal Trail. Access to outdoor recreation should be preserved, and connections to surrounding parks and open spaces should be expanded. 3. Contra Costa Centre’s mixed land uses provide opportunities to live, work, and shop within the community. This mixed-use environment should be maintained in future development. 4. The family-friendly atmosphere should be preserved. 5. Major roads and freeways, such as Treat Boulevard, Oak Road, and Interstate 680, pass through and are adjacent to Contra Costa Centre. Traffic safety and roadway enhancements should be prioritized. 6. Walkability in Contra Costa Centre is unique in the unincorporated county. This asset should be preserved and enhanced with future development. CONTRA COSTA CENTRE - GUIDANCE - 3 Multi-family housing next to the Pleasant Hill/Contra Costa Centre BART Station.Single-family housing in Contra Costa Centre. Mixed uses in Contra Costa Centre.Commercial uses in Contra Costa Centre. Page 107Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 POLICIES 1. Support innovative mixed-use projects. 2. Support density increases along major thoroughfares. 3. Expand and improve bicycle network connectivity to increase safety and access to public transit and minimize collisions with automobiles. 4. Prioritize local-serving retail and community-focused land uses, such as restaurants and farmers’ markets. 5. Require new development to provide walkable, pedestrian-scale streetscapes. 6. Encourage open spaces within higher-density areas, such as rooftop gardens, outside gathering spaces near office buildings, outdoor dining areas, and pedestrian-focused amenities. 7. Increase the concentration of high-intensity employment uses and affordable housing in the area to better utilize the regional transit accessibility provided by BART. 8. Promote a station area appearance which will project a positive image and have high regional and local identity. CONTRA COSTA CENTRE - GUIDANCE - 4 ACTIONS 1. Improve traffic signal operations at the intersection of Las Juntas Road and Oak Road. 2. Facilitate installation of sustainable infrastructure such as zero-emission vehicle charging and fueling infrastructure, bike repair stations, and other green amenities as they become available. 010 Page 108Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #010 Posted by Dana on 01/19/2024 at 9:38am [Comment ID: 26] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 Another important policy consideration at Contra Costa Centre should be effectively integrating high density and low density, by using density transition zones to feather out density. For land facing Cherry Lane, this would mean a mid density approach, maxing out at 17 units per acre. This mid density would accommodate the need for housing, while acknowledging the need to maintain safe, livable, aesthetically pleasing neighborhoods for all different types of users. Page 109Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Crockett is located on the south side of the Carquinez Strait just east of San Pablo Bay. The town has a colorful history and eclectic character. It is best known as the home of the C&H Sugar refinery, which has been in operation since 1906. Crockett was a “company town” during the refinery’s boom years in the early and mid-1900s. Today, the town is home to about 3,000 residents. Its picturesque waterfront setting and relative affordability have attracted a large population of artists. Crockett is home to two museums, two regional parks, a middle school and high school, and a downtown business district along Pomona Street and 2nd Avenue. In hillside residential neighborhoods, quaint homes on small lots boast sweeping views of the strait. In addition to the C&H Sugar refinery, the community is also close to heavy industrial uses west of Interstate 80, including the Phillips 66 Refinery and NuStar Energy storage facility. While nearby communities like Vallejo and Martinez experienced substantial growth during the late 1900s, Crockett remained isolated. More than half of the community’s housing stock was built before 1940. Recent improvements to Interstate 80 and the Carquinez Bridge have made Crockett more accessible, and the town’s historic charm is attracting a growing number of visitors and new residents. Committed, civic-minded residents are involved in various local organizations like the Crockett Community Foundation, strengthening this tight-knit community. Crockett seeks to preserve its relative affordability, diversity, and history while attracting new investment, sustaining a more vibrant downtown business district and connecting to its waterfront. Residents also seek to address long-standing concerns about hazards and toxins, ensuring a safe future and healthy environment for all. CROCKETT - CONTEXT - 1 WHO LIVES IN CROCKETT? Median Age VS 41 years old in Crockett 40 years old inContra Costa County Median Household Income VS $73,296 in Crockett $103,997inContra Costa County Race & Ethnicity ►71% White ►19% Hispanic or Latino ►5% Black or African American ►3% Asian Average Life Expectancy VS 78 years old in Crockett 81 years old inContra Costa County Source: Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. 0 Scale (Miles) .3 (Community-submitted photo.) Page 110Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 The information on this page presents a summary of hazards and vulnerabilities in Crockett based on the Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment; please see the online Vulnerability Assessment for a full description of these hazards and vulnerabilities. CROCKETT - CONTEXT - 2 HAZARDS Coastal flooding Extreme heat Human health hazards Landslides and debris flows Sea level rise Seismic hazards Wildfire MAJOR VULNERABILITIES Cost-burdened households and households in poverty are vulnerable to landslide and debris flows. Households in poverty are vulnerable to seismic hazards. Crockett Library is vulnerable to coastal flooding and sea level rise by 2100. Crockett Cogen powerplant is vulnerable to sea level rise, landslides, and debris flows. C&H Sugar Factory and commercial buildings are vulnerable to sea level rise. WILDFIRE Source: CalFire, 2018; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. 0 Scale (Miles) .6 SEA LEVEL RISE Source: San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission, 2017; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. 0 Scale (Miles) .6 Page 111Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 CROCKETT - CONTEXT - 3 IMPACTED COMMUNITY The County has identified Crockett as an Impacted Community under Senate Bill (SB) 1000, which requires the County to integrate environmental justice into the General Plan. This law is based on the understanding that some communities have experienced a combination of historic discrimination, negligence, and political and economic disempowerment, with the result that today they are struggling with both a disproportionate burden of pollution and health impacts and disproportionate social and economic disadvantages. The 21 indicators that contribute to Crockett’s identification as an Impacted Community are highlighted in the chart to the right, with additional details provided in the maps that follow, based on State data from CalEnviroScreen. The chart shows how Crockett ranks for each indicator compared to the rest of the state. The County identifies Impacted Communities as those where the combined ranking for all factors is 72 percent or higher. While there are multiple Census tracts that make up Crockett, this chart presents only the most-impacted Census tract in Crockett. Some of the factors that contribute to Crockett’s identification as an Impacted Community relate to its industrial roots – both past and present. The Selby Smelting and Lead Company, operated as a metal smelting and refining plant into the 1970s, polluted land and accompanying groundwater north of the bridge with slag. Remedial efforts in previous decades protected residents from direct site exposure but did not fully prevent slag from leaching into the bay. Full remediation plans, overseen by the California Department of Toxic Substances Control, are underway to protect groundwater, preserve aquatic habitats, and prevent human exposure to these toxic substances. Near the Selby site, NuStar Energy leases land previously owned by the Wickland Oil Company, where petroleum products were released at the site through the 1980s. The site currently stores petroleum products from nearby refineries before transfer to gas stations and other consumers. Fires at the storage facility in 2019 required Crockett residents to “shelter in place” and put the community at risk of evacuation and toxic airborne particulates. IMPACTED COMMUNITY INDICATORS (2021) Ranking of Most Impacted Census Tract in Crockett Relative to the State Air Quality: Ozone Concentration Air Quality: Fine Particle (PM2.5) Concentration Diesel Particulate Matter Emissions Concentration of Toxic Releases Traffic Density Pesticide Use Concentration of Drinking Water Contaminants Children's Lead Risk from Housing Concentration of Clean Up Sites Susceptibility to Groundwater Threats Density of Hazardous Waste Facilities Proximity to Impaired Water Bodies Proximity to Solid Waste Sites Asthma-Induced Emergency Room Visits Low Birth Weight Infants Heart Attack-Induced Emergency Room Visits Population Without a High School Degree Limited English Speaking Households Poverty Relative Unemployment Housing Burdened Low Income Households 0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70% 72% 80%90%100% 12% 34% 77% 83% 0% 4% 85% 84% 84% 97% 83% 36% 93% 86% 54% 28% 61% 53% 74% 80% 6767% Page 112Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 CROCKETT - CONTEXT - 4 0 Scale (Miles) .6 Source: CalEnviroscreen, 2021; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. This map ranks Census tracts based on the concentration of clean up sites, which are sites undergoing clean up actions by governmental authorities or property owners due to environmental degradation from hazardous substances (e.g., the Selby slag site). The ranking also considers the nature and magnitude of the threat and the site type and status. Parts of Crockett are ranked at 84 percent, meaning that the area has a concentration of clean up sites that is higher than 84 percent of the state. CLEAN UP SITES 0 Scale (Miles) .6 Source: CalEnviroscreen, 2021; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. This map ranks Census tracts based on the density of hazardous waste facilities and generators (e.g., the Phillips 66 Refinery and NuStar Energy), considering each facility’s type and permit status and generator activities. Parts of Crockett are ranked at 97 percent, meaning that the area has a density of hazardous waste facilities and generators that is higher than 97 percent of the state. HAZARDOUS WASTE Page 113Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 CROCKETT - GUIDANCE - 5 GUIDING PRINCIPLES The following guiding principles articulate the values, priorities, and aspirations for the future shared by Crockett community members: 1. Crockett should be a resilient community, with residents who are informed and well- prepared for emergencies, and property that is safe from sea-level rise impacts, wildfire hazards, and the acute and long-term risks of nearby industrial uses. 2. The rich history, heritage, creativity, and quirkiness of Crockett and its residents should be celebrated, cultivated, and leveraged to improve the community’s economic well- being. 3. New development should preserve Crockett’s character, which includes small lots, varying setbacks, and quaint architecture. Zoning regulations should reflect real- world conditions. 4. Downtown Crockett should return to its role as a bustling and self-sustaining town center by infusing it with historic building renovations, new independent businesses, restaurants, and pedestrian improvements. 5. Crockett residents should have access to a variety of transportation modes that provide convenient connections to the areas where they need to travel. 6. Crockett should remain a relatively affordable place to find a home and a community with residents of all incomes and ages. 7. Public facilities and amenities in Crockett, including regional parkland, community parks and open spaces, schools, and the Crockett Community Center, should be preserved and enhanced. Open spaces should be inviting, clear of trash and debris, support community health and wellness, and serve as classrooms for outdoor education. 8. Crockett residents should enjoy convenient access to the shoreline and nearby open space. 9. Crockett’s artists should be celebrated and sustained. 10. Parking issues in the community should be proactively addressed and managed. PLANNED LAND USE Land use designations for Crockett are shown on Figure LU-1, General Plan Land Use Map, and are defined in the Land Use Element. The heart of Crockett is the downtown business district along Pomona Street, from 1st Avenue to John Swett High School, encompassing the library to the north, and connecting to a secondary business district extending east along Loring Avenue facing the waterfront. These areas are intended for mixed-use projects to facilitate the creation of a town center, retain the integrity of existing development, and recognize the historic mix of ground floor commercial uses, upper story apartments, and small multiple-family residential, office, and civic buildings. Residential neighborhoods are planned for a density range from 5 to 30 units per acre, with higher density uses located adjacent to the Mixed-Use designation to support the business district. New development is planned to continue the existing development pattern that mixes residential and open space uses. Areas to the west around the base of the Carquinez Bridge are planned for light industrial and commercial recreation uses to revitalize the marina area and improve access to the waterfront. Single-family home in Crockett.Historic C&H Sugar refinery in Crockett. Commercial uses in Downtown Crockett.Residential street in Crockett. Page 114Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 CROCKETT - GUIDANCE - 6 POLICIES 1. In mixed-use areas, preserve adequate square footage of commercial uses to meet the daily needs of the community. Support a diverse local economy with thriving small and local-serving businesses while promoting new residential development. 2. Maintain Crockett’s unique character while removing barriers to economic vitality, making the housing stock more resilient and sustainable, and creating new and diverse housing opportunities. 3. Coordinate with the C&H Sugar refinery to ensure that plans for future use of its properties are consistent with the community’s vision for long-term growth. 4. Encourage improved community appearance through graffiti removal, litter reduction, street and sidewalk maintenance, abatement of illegal dumping, and code enforcement. 5. Encourage Caltrans to beautify and maintain their rights-of-way in Crockett, particularly along pedestrian pathways. 6. Encourage preservation, sensitive rehabilitation, and adaptive reuse of older buildings, particularly those identified as local historic places, and recognize Crockett’s authentic character, walkable scale, and inventory of historic buildings as assets and amenities to attract businesses, visitors, and investment to the community. (3-144) 7. Consider height and density increases downtown, provided historic context is respected. 8. Exempt adaptive reuse or re-tenanting of older downtown buildings from compliance with off-street parking requirements when appropriate. 9. Elevate Crockett’s role in the Bay Area as a regional hub for arts and culture, and strongly encourage galleries, artists housing, performance space, special events, and other activities that support the arts as an important part of local identity. 10. Generally preserve public views of Carquinez Strait, San Francisco Bay, and other defining natural elements of the local landscape. Encourage new construction that enriches scenic quality of the community. (3-141) 11. Protect and preserve the scenic quality of the Carquinez Strait, and encourage access for fishing, boating, hiking, cycling, and other recreational activities. (3-142) POLICIES (CONTINUED) 12. Support the long-term preservation of hillsides, ridgelines, and canyons around Crockett, which are essential to the community’s scenic beauty and character and serve as green infrastructure that supports stormwater management, water quality, and climate change strategies. Prohibit extreme topographic modification, such as filling in canyons and removing hilltops. (3-142 and 3-143) 13. Encourage clustering and planned unit development on hillsides as a means of preserving open space. (3-142) 14. Work with EBRPD and other landowners to improve non-motorized trails in the Crockett area, including bike lanes to Rodeo and Port Costa, and better access for hikers from Crockett to the Bull Valley Staging Area and Carquinez Strait Regional Shoreline Park. ACTIONS 1. Assist a community-led process to develop design guidelines for Crockett that are tailored to the unique setting, historic fabric, lot patterns, design character, and mix of uses in the community. 2. Update the Historic Resources Inventory to add structures that may not have been considered historic at the time of the last inventory. Include information on nearby legacy communities such as Selby and Tormey. (3-144) 3. Develop an economic development strategy aimed at attracting retail, restaurants, grocers, services, and locally owned and independent businesses. 4. Improve waterfront access, including access to the shoreline from Crockett and lateral access along the shoreline itself. Work with the State Lands Commission, EBRPD, and other agencies to provide new amenities along the shoreline, improve pedestrian and bicycle crossings of the railroad, and encourage water-oriented business and commercial activities that enhance Crockett’s identity as a waterfront community. Page 115Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 CROCKETT - GUIDANCE - 7 ACTIONS (CONTINUED) 5. Develop a communitywide parking management plan that addresses downtown parking and residential street parking. 6. Close sidewalk gaps and improve pedestrian mobility throughout downtown. 7. Maintain truck routes to limit industrial traffic on Crockett streets and enable safer, more efficient road operations. (3-134) 8. Work with the West Contra Costa Transit Authority, Caltrans, and Amtrak to improve transit connections between Crockett and other communities, potentially including a rail stop on the Amtrak/Capitol Corridor. In addition, encourage transit agencies to improve transit signage and waiting areas. Page 116Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 DIABLO - CONTEXT - 1 Diablo is located on the western slopes of Mount Diablo, east of Alamo and northeast of Danville. It has long been considered one of the county’s most desirable residential communities and is known for its elegant homes, large lots, stately oak trees, and the historic Diablo Country Club. In 2022, the median home price in Diablo was $2.65 million, making it the 41st most expensive ZIP code in the United States and the most expensive in the East Bay. Diablo began as the Oakwood Park Stock Farm, a ranch owned by California’s “Big Four” (i.e., influential men who built the Central Pacific Railroad) in the late 1800s. Robert Noble Burgess purchased the property in 1912 and transformed it into a swank summer resort. The country club dates to 1914, and about 60 of the early homes in the community are included on the county’s historic resources inventory. Diablo post office was established in 1916 and remains a crossroads of community life. Today there are about 400 homes in Diablo, representing a variety of architectural styles. Community spirit is bolstered by several civic organizations. Local affairs are managed by the Diablo Property Owners Association, the Diablo Municipal Advisory Council (DMAC), and the Diablo Community Services District (DCSD). The DCSD was formed in 1969 to provide security services and to maintain roads, bridges, drainage facilities, and equestrian paths. Diablo is strongly committed to retaining its autonomy and preserving the characteristics that make it a special place today. WHO LIVES IN DIABLO? Median Household Income VS $194,479 in Diablo $103,997inContra Costa County Race & Ethnicity ►93% White ►5% Asian ►0% Black or African American ►0% Hispanic or Latino Average Life Expectancy VS 84 years old in Diablo 81 years old inContra Costa County Median Age VS 56 years old in Diablo 40 years old inContra Costa County Source: Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. (Community-submitted photo.) 0 Scale (Miles) .5 Page 117Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 DIABLO - CONTEXT - 2 HAZARDS Drought Extreme heat Flooding Human health hazards Landslides and debris flows Seismic hazards Severe storms Wildfire MAJOR VULNERABILITIES Seniors, especially seniors living alone, and cost-burdened households are vulnerable to poor air quality, extreme heat, flooding, landslides, seismic hazards, and wildfire. Persons without access to lifelines and persons living on single access roads are vulnerable to wildfire, landslides, and flooding. Energy delivery, solid waste removal, and water and wastewater services are vulnerable to landslides, flooding, seismic hazards, and wildfire. Woodland and riparian woodland areas are vulnerable to agricultural pests and diseases, drought, and wildfire. 0 Scale (Miles) .5 WILDFIRE Source: CAL FIRE, 2018; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. The information on this page presents a summary of hazards and vulnerabilities in Diablo based on the Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment; please see the online Vulnerability Assessment for a full description of these hazards and vulnerabilities. FLOOD ZONES 0 Scale (Miles) .5 Source: FEMA, 2019; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. A 100-year flood zone repre-sents a 1% chance of flooding in any given year. A 500-year flood zone represents a 0.2% chance of flooding in any given year Page 118Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 DIABLO - GUIDANCE - 3 GUIDING PRINCIPLES The following guiding principles articulate the values, priorities, and aspirations for the future shared by Diablo community members: 1. Diablo’s rural, harmonious feel, where people know and care about each other, should be preserved. 2. Diablo’s unique charm, historic character, and safe and quiet ambiance should be preserved. 3. Diablo’s primarily low-density residential development pattern should be maintained. 4. The local post office serves as a community meeting place, and should be supported in that role. 5. Public safety and low levels of crime should be maintained. PLANNED LAND USE Land use designations for Diablo are shown on Figure LU-1, General Plan Land Use Map, and are defined in the Land Use Element. Diablo is planned to preserve and continue its rural character and residential use at a density consistent with existing development. Historic single-family home in Diablo.Recreation and open space around Diablo. (Community-submitted photo.) Open space around Diablo. (Community-submitted photo.)Diablo Country Club. Page 119Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 DIABLO - GUIDANCE - 4 ACTIONS 1. Address issues with traffic and speeding along Diablo Road. 2. Coordinate with local agencies to establish a plan for natural disasters, such as wildfires and earthquakes, including a shelter in place plan for the community. POLICIES 1. Support efforts to maintain Diablo's mature trees, natural setting, and limited sidewalks and streetlights, all of which add to its rural character. 2. Increase opportunities for community input in planning processes and projects, especially related to historic designations and regulations. 3. Discourage land uses that detract from Diablo’s low-density residential character, such as large commercial and high-density residential projects. 4. Support efforts to improve wildfire safety through management of the Wildland- Urban Interface around Diablo. Page 120Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Discovery Bay is a relatively new community in eastern Contra Costa County, created as a planned community in 1964 on agricultural land previously known as the “Byron Tract.” The original de velopment was envisioned as a recreational community, with a network of excavated canals and residential lots connected to Delta waterways. Neighborhoodser ving amenities also were planned and created. Today, Discovery Bay has grown into a fullser vice town with a community services district that coordinates water, sewer, and recreation services. Residents enjoy many outdoor amenities in their small community, including the golf course at the Discovery Bay Country Club, Discovery Bay Marina, several parks, and surrounding agricultural and open space land. Discovery Bay is primarily comprised of residential land uses along the canals, with pockets of commercial and office spaces that fulfill some daily service needs. Commercial uses include a shop ping center at the corner of Highway 4 and Bixler Road that is anchored with a major grocery store. However, it has been difficult to attract commercial and office development to the community and some commercially zoned properties in town remain vacant. Residents cite their isolation from other cities as a challenge for access to employment and education opportunities. Residents are interested in improving pedestrian and bicycle safety along routes to schools and would like a high school to be established in Discovery Bay. The network of canals that provides recreational and aesthetic benefits also hinders emergency access. Residents are concerned with ingress and egress in the event of a disaster. Furthermore, the community’s close proximity to the water increases the risk of inundation from sealevel rise. DISCOVERY BAY - CONTEXT - 1 WHO LIVES IN DISCOVERY BAY? Median Age VS 43 years old in Discovery Bay 40 years old inContra Costa County Median Household Income VS $133,191 in Discovery Bay $103,997inContra Costa County Race & Ethnicity ►68% White ►17% Hispanic or Latino ►6% Asian ►5% Black or African American Average Life Expectancy VS 81 years old in Discovery Bay 81 years old inContra Costa County Source: Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. 0 Scale (Miles) .85 Page 121Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 DISCOVERY BAY - CONTEXT - 2 MAJOR VULNERABILITIES Costburdened households, households in poverty, and persons with chronic illnesses are vulnerable to coastal flooding. Households in poverty, costburdened households, and lowincome households are vulnerable to sea level rise. Persons living on single access roads are vulnerable to coastal flooding, seismic hazards, and severe storms. The Discovery Bay Fire Station and East Contra Costa Fire Protection District buildings are vulnerable to coastal flooding. The Discovery Bay Elementary School, All God’s Children Christian School, and Timber Point School are vulnerable to coastal flooding. HAZARDS Coastal flooding Drought Extreme heat Flooding Human health hazards Seismic hazards (liquefaction) Sea level rise Severe storms SEA LEVEL RISE Source: Adapting to Rising Tides, 2017 and 2019; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. The information on this page presents a summary of hazards and vulnerabilities in Discovery Bay based on the Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment; please see the online Vulnerability Assessment for a full description of these hazards and vulnerabilities. FLOOD ZONES 0 Scale (Miles) .85 0 Scale (Miles) .85 Source: FEMA, 2019; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. A 100-year flood zone represents a 1% chance of flooding in any given year. A 500-year flood zone represents a 0.2% chance of flooding in any given year. Page 122Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 PLANNED LAND USE Land use designations for Discovery Bay are shown on Figure LU1, General Plan Land Use Map, and are defined in the Land Use Element. Discovery Bay has been planned to maintain the existing pattern of residential land uses along the canals with pockets of commercial and office uses. While the former Cecchini property is designated Agricultural Lands, it is inside the ULL and may be redesignated to allow urban uses in the future. The area designated Mixed Use at Discovery Bay Boulevard above Sand Point Road is intended to facilitate the creation of a town center and encourage the development of a variety of uses that would complement and catalyze further utilization of existing commercial and office areas. GUIDING PRINCIPLES The following guiding principles articulate the values, priorities, and aspirations for the future shared by Discovery Bay community members: 1. Discovery Bay’s character and history are tied to the waterfront. The community’s unique access to water and opportunities for boating and other water recreation activities should be maintained and encouraged. 2. Discovery Bay residents want a thriving community operating at its full potential. Developing vacant and unmaintained properties should be a priority. 3. The farmland surrounding Discovery Bay acts as a community buffer and should be maintained. 4. Residents of Discovery Bay want resilient, reliable infrastructure to safeguard their community. They should be protected from inundation due to dam and levee failures. 5. Parents want their children to attend all grade levels at local schools. Discovery Bay needs a local high school. Singlefamily residential uses in Discovery Bay.Residential uses along the canals. Commercial use in Discovery Bay.Protected open space in Discovery Bay. DISCOVERY BAY - GUIDANCE - 3 Page 123Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 POLICIES 1. In mixeduse areas, attract and retain commercial uses to serve the daily needs of the community. Support the development of new commercial uses and localserving businesses while promoting new residential development. 2. Enhance access and connections to regional parks and open space. 3. Promote and encourage the development of jobgenerating uses. 4. Require development of the Cecchini Ranch property to include jobgenerating uses. 5. Support establishment of a senior housing project in the vicinity of Point of Timber Road. ACTIONS 1. Study the feasibility of adding another access road into the community to improve safety and disaster response. 2. Support implementation of a Safe Routes to School Program and provide adequate pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure to all Discovery Bay schools and Excelsior Middle School. 3. Add a sports field complex, possibly on the east side of Discovery Bay. 4. Provide bathrooms and better maintenance at Slifer Park and consider transitioning ownership to the Community Services District. 5. Move the northern portion of Cecchini Ranch, which is under an agricultural conservation easement, outside of the Urban Limit Line. DISCOVERY BAY - GUIDANCE - 4 Page 124Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Situated north of El Cerrito and Richmond in the Berkeley Hills, East Richmond Heights is a primarily residential community of about 3,600 residents. Adjacent open space in Wildcat Canyon provides respite and outdoor recreation for residents. Given East Richmond Heights’ location, the community has panoramic views of San Francisco Bay, Mount Tamalpais, and beyond. Residents cite access to open space and views as important community assets that should be preserved for generations to come. East Richmond Heights is also home to two schools, Crestmont School and Mira Vista Elementary School, which contribute to the area’s family-oriented character. Interstate 80, located about a ½ mile to the west, provides regional transportation access, and Arlington Boulevard serves as the major north-south thoroughfare. Despite the small-town community feel, residents are concerned about safety and formed the East Richmond Heights Neighborhood Watch team to prevent crime, enhance emergency preparedness, and improve neighborhood communication. In addition, residents would like more street lighting and new and expanded community facilities and events. Residents are also concerned about fire hazards from vegetation in Wildcat Canyon Regional Park and throughout the neighborhood, particularly from dead, standing trees. The community would like to enhance fire protection services and evacuation preparedness to ensure resident safety in the event of a natural disaster. EAST RICHMOND HEIGHTS - CONTEXT - 1 WHO LIVES IN EAST RICHMOND HEIGHTS? Median Age VS 49 years old in East Richmond Heights 40 years old inContra Costa County Median Household Income VS $101,172 in East Richmond Heights $103,997inContra Costa County Race & Ethnicity ►52% White ►17% Hispanic or Latino ►14% Asian ►11% Black or African American Average Life Expectancy VS 84 years old in East Richmond Heights 81 years old inContra Costa County 0 .25 Scale (Miles) Source: Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. Page 125Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 This image represents wildfire as one of the hazards to which East Richmond Heights is vulnerable. EAST RICHMOND HEIGHTS - CONTEXT - 2 HAZARDS Air Quality Drought Extreme Heat Flooding Human Health Hazards Landslides Seismic Hazards Severe Weather Wildfire MAJOR VULNERABILITIES Persons living on single access roads and seniors living alone are vulnerable to flooding, landslides, seismic hazards, and wildfire. Cost-burdened households and renters are vulnerable to extreme heat, flooding, landslides, seismic hazards, severe storms, and wildfires. Persons with chronic illnesses and seniors (including those living alone) are vulnerable to air quality, extreme heat, human health hazards, and wildfire. Single access roads are vulnerable to damage from flooding, landslides, seismic hazards, and wildfire. Electricity transmission and distribution lines are vulnerable to landslides, wind from severe storms, and wildfire. Mira Vista Elementary, Adams Middle School, and Crestmont School are vulnerable to landslides, seismic hazards, and wildfires. Public safety and emergency medical response are vulnerable to flooding, landslides, severe storms, and wildfire. Woodland habitat in the eastern area of the community is vulnerable to drought, severe storms, and wildfire. LANDSLIDES The information on this page presents a summary of hazards and vulnerabilities in East Richmond Heights based on the Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment; please see the online Vulnerability Assessment for a full description of these hazards and vulnerabilities. 0 Scale (Miles) .25 Source: CalFire, 2018; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2020. Source: US Geological Survey, 2018; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. WILDFIRE HAZARD SEVERITY ZONES Page 126Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 EAST RICHMOND HEIGHTS - GUIDANCE - 3 GUIDING PRINCIPLES The following guiding principles articulate the values, priorities, and aspirations for the future shared by East Richmond Heights community members: 1. East Richmond Heights has a small community feel because of its diverse housing stock, moderate densities, and compact form. Residents know their neighbors, and care for each other and the community. This tightly knit, small community feel should be preserved. 2. East Richmond Heights' panoramic views of San Francisco Bay, bridges, cities, and natural landscapes should be preserved. 3. Existing public services, such as the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office and Fire Protection District, should be supported and enhanced to ensure a safe community. 4. Because East Richmond Heights is proximate to Wildcat Canyon Regional Park and the Hayward Fault, it is exposed to wildfires and earthquakes. The community should be protected from these hazards through proper planning and emergency response. 5. A variety of housing types should be encouraged to ensure housing opportunities for residents of all ages, incomes, and abilities. PLANNED LAND USE Land use designations for East Richmond Heights are shown on Figure LU-1, General Plan Land Use Map, and are defined in the Land Use Element. East Richmond Heights is planned for continued medium density residential uses. The community has two existing small commercial pockets, which are intended to support neighborhood-serving businesses. The area designated Mixed-Use is envisioned to attract neighborhood-serving commercial and services, affordable housing, and alternative dwelling types, while supporting and encouraging more community events. Adjacent areas designated Parks and Recreation, Resource Conservation, and Agricultural Lands will continue to preserve access to outdoor recreational opportunities and open space. Existing single-family home in East Richmond Heights.Existing open space in the region. Retail example in a nearby community.Existing single-family home in East Richmond Heights. 011 Page 127Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #011 Posted by Fran Cappelletti on 04/21/2024 at 10:37am [Comment ID: 67] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 An actual photo of the Arlington Market or Laundromat across the street would be more informative and relevant instead of a 'Retail example in a nearby community'. Page 128Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 EAST RICHMOND HEIGHTS - GUIDANCE - 4 ACTIONS 1. Coordinate with public safety and health agencies to install additional fire hydrants. 2. Improve pedestrian safety and roadway infrastructure by performing routine pavement management and maintenance, installing continuous street lighting, illuminating pedestrian crossings, adding ADA compliant amenities, and delineating on-street parking spaces along major roads. 3. Explore the possibility of constructing a community library. 4. Assist a community-led process to coordinate with the Richmond Unified School District on a plan for the future of Adams Middle School. The site should be a model for sustainable, green development that meets the housing (including workforce housing), retail, recreational, and service needs of the community while mitigating impacts to existing neighborhoods. 5. Should the Mira Vista Elementary School property ever be redeveloped with a non-public use, redesignate the western, downslope portion of the property between Zinn Street and Sierra Avenue to Parks and Recreation. POLICIES 1. When reviewing new development proposals, consider the need for mitigation of wildfire and earthquake exposure as appropriate. 2. Ensure new development provides reasonable protection for existing residences regarding views, design compatibility (including building mass, height, and mechanical devices), adequate parking, privacy, and access to sunlight. 3. When reviewing new development proposals, ensure views of scenic natural features (e.g., San Francisco Bay, mountains) and the developed environment (e.g., bridges, San Francisco skyline) are preserved. 4. Ensure that new construction and home renovation activities minimize impacts on neighbors and local roads, which may be compounded by existing small lots and narrow, winding roadways. 5. Improve pedestrian and roadway infrastructure in a manner that balances the needs of users with the desire to retain East Richmond Heights’ small community feel. 6. Promote local-serving commercial establishments to encourage local business growth, create retail shopping near residents, and provide opportunities for residents to conduct business within their own community. 7. Improve local drainage infrastructure and encourage improvements to local wastewater infrastructure. 8. Recognize affordable housing as a community asset and encourage alternative dwelling types such as accessory dwellings and co-housing. 012 Page 129Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #012 Posted by Joann Pavlinec on 04/20/2024 at 1:42pm [Comment ID: 65] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 East Richmond Heights-Guidance-page 4, ACTIONS: Conduct a community design workshop led by architects, urban planners, facilitators to plan for the Adams site future, early in the process, before any applications to develop. Based on the workshop, develop design guidelines/standards that provide direction to blend existing neighborhood character-for example, building form, materials, street pattern, landscaping, open space, parking location-and to recommend ways to blend a higher density neighborhood with existing density and character. The site should be a model for sustainable, green development that meets the housing (including workforce housing), retail, recreational, and service needs of the community while mitigating impacts to the existing surrounding neighborhood. Reply by Fran Cappelletti on 04/21/2024 at 10:31am [Comment ID: 66] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 I agree with the item and comment and encourage efforts to make residents aware of any planned workshops to maximize participation. Page 130Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 El Sobrante is entirely within the Spheres of Influence for the cities of Richmond and Pinole, but has its own distinct identity shaped by its history, landscape, people, and built environment. The community originated as part of the Rancho San Pablo and Rancho El Sobrante Spanish land grants in 1841, with its name literally translated as “the remaining area.” The Ranchos were subdivided into smaller ranches during the late 1800s and early 1900s. Many of these ranches were subdivided again in the mid to late 20th century, giving El Sobrante a semi-rural character. Today, the community includes a mix of ranchettes, residential subdivisions, and multiple-family residential developments. Roughly 75 percent of the community’s housing stock was built between 1940 and 1979. El Sobrante is oriented along several major thoroughfares. San Pablo Dam Road extends from Interstate 80 east and south toward San Pablo Reservoir and Orinda and is home to many of El Sobrante’s businesses and commercial uses. Appian Way extends north from San Pablo Dam Road to Interstate 80 in Pinole, including the “triangle” area around the intersection of Appian Way and Valley View Road. Important natural features such as San Pablo Creek, open hillsides, and oak woodlands provide visual beauty, plant and animal habitat, and opportunities for recreation and green infrastructure. Several plans have been developed for El Sobrante in the past two decades and remain generally applicable today, including a 2001 Transportation and Land Use Plan for the downtown business district (along San Pablo Dam Road and Appian Way) and P-1 Zoning and Design Guidelines adopted in 2013. Both documents strive to enhance El Sobrante’s small town, rural residential, and vintage character, while creating new opportunities for housing, businesses, and civic uses in the heart of the community EL SOBRANTE - CONTEXT - 1 WHO LIVES IN EL SOBRANTE? Median Age VS 45 years old in El Sobrante 40 years old inContra Costa County Median Household Income VS $96,429 in El Sobrante $103,997inContra Costa County Race & Ethnicity ►36% White ►25% Hispanic or Latino ►21% Asian ►12% Black or African American Average Life Expectancy VS 80 years old in El Sobrante 81 years old inContra Costa County (Community-submitted photo.) Source: Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. 0 Scale (Miles) .5 Page 131Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 EL SOBRANTE - CONTEXT - 2 Hazards Extreme heat Flooding Human health hazards Landslides and debris flows Seismic hazards Wildfire Major Vulnerabilities Persons experiencing chronic illnesses, homeless persons, and households in poverty are vulnerable to extreme heat and human health hazards. The community is vulnerable to dam-related flooding from the San Pablo Dam, if the dam were to be harmed by landslides or seismic hazards. However, San Pablo Dam has recently been upgraded to reduce the risk of dam failure, decreasing the potential for dam-related flooding. Homes are vulnerable to landslides and debris flows, seismic hazards, and wildfire. Single access roads and neighborhoods are vulnerable to landslides and wildfire. San Pablo Dam Road is vulnerable to landslides, seismic hazards, and wildfire. Public transit access, water and wastewater services, energy delivery services, and solid waste removal services are vulnerable to multiple hazards. WILDFIRE 0 Scale (Miles) 1 Source: CAL FIRE, 2007; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. The information on this page presents a summary of hazards and vulnerabilities in El Sobrante based on the Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment; please see the online Vulnerability Assessment for a full description of these hazards and vulnerabilities. 0 Scale (Miles) 1 FLOOD ZONES Source: FEMA, 2019; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. A 100-year flood zone represents a 1% chance of flooding in any given year. A 500-year flood zone represents a 0.2% chance of flooding in any given year. Page 132Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 EL SOBRANTE - GUIDANCE - 3 PLANNED LAND USE Land use designations for El Sobrante are shown on Figure LU-1, General Plan Land Use Map, and are defined in the Land Use Element. Planned land uses in El Sobrante include mixed- use and commercial corridors along San Pablo Dam Road and Appian Way, with residential neighborhoods and open space comprising the rest of the community. Residential areas span a range of densities, from large lot single-family homes to higher density multiple-family apartments and condominiums. New development will generally consist of infill projects on vacant or mostly vacant properties along San Pablo Dam Road and Appian Way that have been previously “passed over.” Hillsides and ridgelines are primarily designated for open space, protecting El Sobrante’s visual context and avoiding urban sprawl. Areas along San Pablo Dam Road and Appian Way that serve as downtown El Sobrante are designated Mixed Use, recognizing the existing mix of multiple-family residential and commercial properties, as well as the desire for new projects that combine these uses, either vertically or horizontally. As noted in the following section, zoning regulations provide more prescriptive design standards for the downtown. The Land Use Map also identifies community assets with a designation for public uses, including Juan Crespi Middle School, Harbour Way Elementary School, and the El Sobrante Library, as well as utilities such as an East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) water filtration plant. Open spaces along the San Pablo Creek corridor, and other locations where topography or natural hazards preclude safe development, are designated Resource Conservation. Sites along the creek will be considered for a potential community park. Existing commercial use in El Sobrante.Existing single-family home in El Sobrante. Existing multi-family residential use in El Sobrante.Existing public use in El Sobrante. DOWNTOWN EL SOBRANTE PLANNED LAND USES The Downtown El Sobrante P-1 Zoning and Design Guidelines cover the area shown in the map on the following page. Downtown El Sobrante includes three mixed-use areas; the text below describes the vision for each area. The Downtown El Sobrante P-1 Zoning and Design Guidelines should be consulted for more specific direction and is considered the governing document for long-range planning decisions in this area. Each of the three mixed-use areas shares a common set of design principles intended to create a more walkable, pedestrian-friendly environment. Key principles include allowing varied setbacks and encouraging new buildings to be located close to the street frontage. Windows and entries should face the street, with surface parking to the rear of the building rather than in the front. Mixed-use development is strongly encouraged, although all three districts allow projects that are entirely commercial. Interesting and innovative architecture is encouraged throughout each mixed-use area but should be harmonious in scale so that the area functions as a cohesive district. APPIAN WAY MIXED USE AREA The Appian Way Mixed-Use Area is intended to facilitate the development of the Appian Way corridor as a unified, well-designed neighborhood, including new mixed-use development and improved services, shopping, offices, and restaurants. Neighborhood commercial uses are allowed on all parcels. Residential-only projects and mixed residential-commercial projects are permitted but not required, and residential uses may be integrated into existing commercial developments. A 27- foot height limit applies, with an 8-foot height bonus for mixed-use projects or projects eligible for a density bonus (subject to specific findings set forth in the P-1 Zoning Plan). The P-1 Guidelines provide direction for Appian Way itself, including development of a landscaped median, new storm drains, on-street parking bays, lighted pedestrian crossings, improved sidewalks and bus bays, and retention of bike lanes. Traffic signalization and vehicle flow improvements are encouraged. The Guidelines also support development of open space and parks, preservation of mature trees, and streetscape and frontage planting in this area. Page 133Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 EL SOBRANTE - GUIDANCE - 4 0 Scale (Miles) .4 MIXED-USE AREAS Downtown El Sobrante Mixed Use Areas 0 0.40.2 Miles Creeks and Drainages Exis�ng Bikeways Trails Incorporated Ci�es Unincorporated Areas Area San Pablo Dam Road Mixed-Use Appian Way Mixed-Use Area Triangle Mixed-Use Area Source: Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2019. City ofSan Pablo S an P ablo C r e e k May Rd S held o n D r Santa Ri t a R d H illcrestRd ParkCentralFranWayAppian Way Hilltop Dr Valle y View Rd San P a b l o D a m R d 80 Source: Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2023. Downtown El Sobrante Mixed Use Areas 0 0.40.2 Miles Creeks and Drainages Exis�ng Bikeways Trails Incorporated Ci�es Unincorporated Areas Area San Pablo Dam Road Mixed-Use Appian Way Mixed-Use Area Triangle Mixed-Use Area Source: Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2019. City ofSan Pablo S a n P ablo C r e e k May Rd S held o n D r Santa Ri t a R d H illcrestRd ParkCentralFranWayAppian Way Hilltop Dr Valle y View Rd San P a b l o D a m R d 80 TRIANGLE MIXED USE AREA The El Sobrante “triangle” is formed by the intersection of Valley View Road, Appian Way, and Sobrante Avenue. Like the Appian Way Mixed-Use Area, this area is also envisioned as a distinct neighborhood retail district with opportunities for mixed- use infill projects. The allowable uses are similar to those in the Appian Way area. Projects that incorporate housing as part of a mixed-use project are encouraged, provided that safe walking and recreational opportunities can be made available. Projects that are entirely commercial are permitted on all parcels, subject to P-1 standards and use limitations. The triangle area is subject to the same density and floor area ratio standards as the Appian Way Mixed-Use Area, with a 27-foot height limit and the potential for an 8-foot height bonus for mixed-use projects. The same building design, streetscape, and parking guidelines apply. The triangle block itself is designated for general commercial uses and is not considered an appropriate location for housing. SAN PABLO DAM ROAD MIXED USE AREA The third mixed-use area in downtown El Sobrante applies to San Pablo Dam Road between El Portal and Appian Way. This is the core of the downtown area. The intent is to create a more unified and vibrant district by creating a town square, improving San Pablo Dam Road, and encouraging new multiple-family residential, offices, retail, and mixed-use projects. The town square is envisioned on the Mechanics Bank property on the south side of the block between Hillcrest Avenue and Pitt Way. Consolidation of existing small parcels is encouraged to create more viable development sites. A 50-foot height limit applies to parcels within this zone, provided that the mass, height, and shape of buildings preserve views and are compatible with community character. The vision for this area also includes improvements to San Pablo Dam Road. Potential improvements include new bike lanes or a separated bike lane, wider sidewalks, more off-street parking, new pedestrian crossings, and more attractive and coordinated signage. New buildings should complement the streetscape improvements and create a more pedestrian-friendly environment. Page 134Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 EL SOBRANTE - GUIDANCE - 5 GUIDING PRINCIPLES The following guiding principles articulate the values, priorities, and aspirations for the future shared by El Sobrante community members: 1. El Sobrante should remain independent and eclectic, with common sense land use regulations that respond to the community’s varied development and building patterns. 2. Change should be managed to enhance El Sobrante’s unique semi-rural/small-town character, sustain its agricultural heritage, and preserve its scenic environment and open spaces. 3. Although new amenities are desired, the costs and benefits of improvements should be compared and disclosed to the public before investments are made. Where feasible, existing facilities should be improved before new facilities are developed. 4. Growth and economic development should: a. Conserve and strengthen established neighborhoods. b. Meet local needs and fulfill the desire to be a complete community. c. Improve visual and architectural quality. d. Provide a range of economic opportunities. e. Revitalize the commercial core with local-serving and locally owned businesses. f. Enhance the quality of life for residents. 5. El Sobrante’s built environment should be designed and developed at a human scale, incorporating healthy community concepts that provide for walking, bicycling, and other non-motorized transportation; recreation; access to healthy foods; and energy- and resource-efficient buildings and development. 6. El Sobrante should be a model for sustainable development and sustainable living, including local food and energy production, zero waste, and green building construction. 7. Because Richmond and Pinole surround El Sobrante on three sides, coordination with the City of Richmond and City of Pinole is essential, and the County should work proactively to address the effects of Richmond’s and Pinole's decisions on the quality of life in El Sobrante. GUIDING PRINCIPLES (CONTINUED) 8. Transportation options should be improved, particularly public transit connections to BART and bicycle facilities along major thoroughfares. 9. Long-term solutions should be developed to address traffic safety and congestion, particularly “cut-through” traffic on local streets and congestion on San Pablo Dam Road. 10. San Pablo Dam Road and Appian Way should be safer and more attractive for walking and cycling and communicate a positive and cohesive image of El Sobrante. 11. Stronger, more vibrant, and walkable centers should be created, providing community gathering places and destinations with new opportunities for housing, businesses, and open space. 12. Greater housing choices should be provided, including affordable housing, live- work spaces, and alternative dwelling types such as tiny homes. 13. El Sobrante should be a culturally diverse and inclusive community with amenities and services for people of all ages, incomes, abilities, and backgrounds. 14. San Pablo Creek and its tributaries should be protected as accessible open spaces, wildlife corridors, and natural amenities that add beauty, character, and ecological value to the community. 15. Access to local hospitals, health care, and social services is critically important and should be improved. 16. El Sobrante should become more resilient and better prepared for disasters, particularly wildfires, floods, and earthquakes. Page 135Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 EL SOBRANTE - GUIDANCE - 6 POLICIES 1. In mixed-use areas, preserve adequate square footage of commercial uses to meet the daily needs of the community. Support the retention of active commercial uses and local-serving businesses while promoting new residential development. 2. Continue to improve downtown El Sobrante to create a stronger sense of this area as a town center and destination for residents, using the Downtown El Sobrante Planned Unit Development (P-1) Zoning and Design Guidelines to guide land use and development decisions in this area. 3. Encourage and prioritize small and locally owned businesses, including markets offering healthier food choices. Local businesses should provide gathering places for residents and contribute to El Sobrante's sense of community and cultural diversity. (3-170) 4. Encourage the combining of adjacent narrow parcels along San Pablo Dam Road, Appian Way, and Valley View Road to facilitate infill development and limit the number of potential streets and driveways entering these major thoroughfares. (3-171, 3-172) 5. Consider the effects of new development on aging infrastructure and, where appropriate, require infrastructure improvements as a condition of approval. 6. Improve the pedestrian and bicycle environment, particularly along major thoroughfares, by closing gaps in the sidewalk system, widening sidewalks, discouraging “drive-through” businesses, and enforcing speed limits and traffic safety rules. (3-166) 7. Increase neighborhood park acreage, including requiring parks within new development, preserving open space along San Pablo Creek, and encouraging the Public Works Department to acquire land using development fees and other sources. Funding for ongoing maintenance should be identified when parks are created. (3- 175) 8. Incorporate safe, well-maintained open spaces and gathering places in new commercial and mixed-use development projects where feasible. In addition, multiple-family residential development should provide on-site recreational facilities for occupants and contribute toward the development of parks and recreational facilities that serve the community at large. (3-204, 3-207) POLICIES (CONTINUED) 9. Maintain, and where feasible improve, access to regional open spaces and parks on the perimeter of El Sobrante, including new trails and existing fire trails with the potential for recreational use. 10. Conserve and restore portions of San Pablo Creek as a community open space, natural resource, and visual amenity. In addition, conserve the natural elements of other local creeks, such as Appian Creek and Wilkie Creek. (3-177) 11. Encourage the City of Richmond to preserve the visual character and natural qualities of San Pablo Ridge, the hillside area that defines the southern and western edge of El Sobrante, by supporting land use decisions that maintain trail access to Wildcat Canyon Park and preserve areas above the 400-foot elevation contour as open space. (3-210) 12. Work with neighboring jurisdictions to ensure that the impacts of development on the El Sobrante community are addressed and mitigated. (3-180) 13. Prohibit new automotive uses (body repair, oil change, etc.) in El Sobrante. ACTIONS 1. Continue to work with residents, businesses, property owners, and other stakeholders on improvement and beautification plans for San Pablo Dam Road, including the addition of Class II bike lanes, pedestrian crossings, lighting, and other design changes that better accommodate bicycles, pedestrians, and transit users. Consider similar improvements on other local streets. (3-166, 167) 2. Reconstruct Appian Way as an attractively landscaped thoroughfare, with improved storm drainage, redesigned travel lanes, parking and curb improvements, new streetscape features, trees, and landscaping. (3-204) 3. Undertake drainage improvements to reduce local flooding problems, especially along portions of Appian Way and San Pablo Dam Road that still have open roadside ditches. To the extent feasible, incorporate “green streets” principles in the design of such projects. (3-179) 4. Consider alternatives and identify an approach for financing community beautification, such as a landscape and lighting assessment district, a business improvement district, or similar measures. (3-168) Page 136Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 EL SOBRANTE - GUIDANCE - 7 ACTIONS (CONTINUED) 5. Work with AC Transit and other local public transit agencies to improve local service, restore BART feeder lines, and better connect El Sobrante to regional transit and community services such as hospitals. (3-169) 6. Develop a façade improvement and beautification program to assist El Sobrante businesses. 7. Pursue construction of a new collector street connecting Pitt Way to Hillcrest Road. 8. Implement a community wayfinding and signage program that creates a unified and positive impression of El Sobrante, identifies community gateways, and helps orient and direct travelers in and around the community. 9. Increase the supply of off-street parking available along San Pablo Dam Road to meet business, customer, and resident needs. Parking should be clearly identified with directional signage and located and managed in a way that does not interfere with traffic flow and safety. (3-174) 10. Pursue development of a full-service community center that can accommodate meetings, events, recreational, cultural, and educational activities. (3-176) 11. Periodically evaluate traffic flow and speeds on Appian Way between Valley View Road and the Pinole city limit to determine appropriate traffic calming and improvement strategies. Periodically consider traffic management improvements along other major streets in the community. (3-186, 3-187) 12. Work with AC Transit and other local public transit agencies to improve local service, restore BART feeder lines, and better connect El Sobrante to regional transit and community services such as hospitals. (3-169) 13. Continue to explore the feasibility of a creek-side boardwalk and park along publicly owned segments of San Pablo Creek. (3-209) 14. Amend page 18 of the land use matrix in the Downtown El Sobrante Planned Unit District Zoning and Design Guidelines to disallow automotive uses. Page 137Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Situated near the University of California, Kensington has been a desirable neighborhood for academics, students, urban professionals, and families for decades. Kensington residents enjoy the community’s panoramic views, mature trees, hillsides, walkable scale, and easy access to transit and regional parks. Although there is very limited potential for growth, many of the homes date from the 1930s and 40s and there is significant construction activity to upgrade and expand those homes. Kensington is oriented along Arlington Avenue (“the Arlington”), a winding thoroughfare that connects to Berkeley on the south and El Cerrito on the north. There is a small commercial district located on the Arlington just north of the Berkeley city limit. A second commercial district is located on Colusa Circle in the lower part of Kensington, near the border with El Cerrito. Although almost all of the homes in Kensington are single-family, densities are relatively high. Features that are important to the community include Kensington Park, Sunset View Cemetery, the University’s Blake Garden, the Kensington Library, Kensington Elementary School, and public pedestrian paths. Unlike most unincorporated communities, Kensington has jurisdiction over many of its local services, including police, fire, parks, and waste collection. Many of the planning and development issues in Kensington relate to view preservation, design compatibility and scale, parking, hillside protection, ingress/egress, and emergency access. KENSINGTON - CONTEXT - 1 Source: Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. WHO LIVES IN KENSINGTON? Median Age VS 49 years old in Kensington 40 years old inContra Costa County Median Household Income VS $163,190 in Kensington $103,997inContra Costa County Race & Ethnicity ►71% White ►10% Asian ►8% Hispanic or Latino ►2% Black or African American Average Life Expectancy VS 86 years old in Kensington 81 years old inContra Costa County 0 Scale (Miles) .5 Page 138Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 KENSINGTON - CONTEXT - 2 HAZARDS Drought Extreme Heat Human Health Hazards Landslides Seismic Hazards Severe Weather Wildfire MAJOR VULNERABILITIES Seniors, especially seniors living alone, are vulnerable to extreme heat, human health hazards, and wildfire due to limited mobility. The homes of cost-burdened households and renters are vulnerable to landslides, wildfire, seismic hazards, and severe weather. Sunset View Cemetery, Tilden Regional Park, Kensington Park, and general outdoor recreation are vulnerable to drought, landslides, severe weather and wildfire. The Kensington Community Center, Kensington Library, and commercial centers along Colusa Avenue and Arlington Avenue are vulnerable to damage from landslides, seismic hazards, severe weather, and wildfire. Public health and safety response, water and wastewater infrastructure, and public transit access are vulnerable to obstruction and delay from landslides, severe weather, and wildfire. WILDFIRE HAZARD SEVERITY ZONES 0 Scale (Miles) .6 LANDSLIDES The information on this page presents a summary of hazards and vulnerabilities in Kensington based on the Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment; please see the online Vulnerability Assessment for a full description of these hazards and vulnerabilities. 0 Scale (Miles) .6 Source: CalFire, 2018; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. Source: US Geological Survey, 2018; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. Page 139Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 KENSINGTON - GUIDANCE - 3 GUIDING PRINCIPLES The following guiding principles articulate the values, priorities, and aspirations for the future shared by Kensington community members: 1. Kensington residents care deeply about their community. The friendly, safe, quiet, and close-knit community feel should be preserved. 2. Kensington’s panoramic views of San Francisco Bay, bridges and cities, and natural landscapes are a defining characteristic that should be preserved. 3. Kensington residents enjoy easy access to regional parks, trails, and open spaces. Bicycle and pedestrian access to these amenities should be enhanced. 4. To remain a safe and complete community, enhancements to the existing public services and facilities, such as the Kensington Fire Protection District and Police Department facility, Kensington Library and Community Center, the pedestrian path network, and local schools, should be supported. 5. Because Kensington is proximate to Wildcat Canyon and Tilden Regional Parks and the Hayward Fault, it is exposed to potentially severe wildfires and earthquakes. The community should be protected from these hazards through proper planning, mitigation, and emergency preparedness and response. 6. A variety of housing types, including small multiple-family developments, duplexes, and accessory dwelling units (ADUs), should be encouraged to diversify the housing stock and better serve residents of all ages and abilities. 7. New housing should be compatible with existing low- to medium-density character and be designed to minimize negative impacts on roads, emergency response capacity, and infrastructure. PLANNED LAND USE Land use designations for Kensington are shown on Figure LU-1, General Plan Land Use Map, and are defined in the Land Use Element. Kensington is planned for continued residential use at a density consistent with existing development, with small pockets of mixed use, commercial and office uses, public/institutional uses, and abundant parks and recreation land. Kensington’s two small commercial areas will continue to serve as the primary centers of local business for Kensington residents. The commercial areas along Colusa Avenue and Arlington Avenue are intended to maintain the community-serving uses already in place while accommodating mixed-use development on vacant and underutilized parcels. Kensington’s proximity to Tilden and Wildcat Canyon Regional Parks provides premier outdoor recreational opportunities for residents. As such, wide swaths of land beyond the developed area continue to be designated for public/semi-public and park and recreation uses. Existing commercial on Arlington Boulevard in Kensington.Colusa Circle in the commercial area. Existing park and open space in Kensington.Existing single-family home in Kensington. Page 140Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 KENSINGTON - GUIDANCE - 4 ACTIONS 1. Improve pedestrian safety and roadway infrastructure with designated paths, ongoing maintenance, illuminated crossings, stop signs, traffic calming measures, on-street parking spaces along Arlington Avenue and Colusa Circle, and ADA facilities. 2. Complete sidewalk gaps throughout Kensington, prioritizing gaps near schools and transit stops. 3. Explore financial assistance programs to help residents maintain and upgrade their homes and implement seismic safety improvements. 4. Review the view protection ordinance to ensure that it addresses issues such as view blockage by trees and vegetation. 5. Develop programs to maintain and improve Kensington’s public pedestrian path system. 6. Support the replacement or updating of police and fire facilities with new or modernized facilities that meet Kensington’s long-term needs. POLICIES 1. When reviewing new development proposals, prioritize the need for mitigation of wildfire and earthquake exposure. 2. Ensure new development provides reasonable protection for existing residences regarding views, design compatibility (including building mass, height, and mechanical devices), adequate parking, privacy, and access to sunlight. (3-211, 3-213, 3-214) 3. When reviewing new development proposals, ensure views of scenic natural features (e.g., San Francisco Bay, mountains) and the developed environment (e.g., bridges, San Francisco skyline) are substantially preserved. (3-212) 4. Improve pedestrian and roadway infrastructure in a way that balances the needs of users with the desire to maintain Kensington’s character. 5. Prioritize projects that incorporate community-serving medical facilities and services. 6. Improve public safety facilities and emergency medical services to meet community needs. 7. Ensure that new construction and home renovation activities minimize impacts on neighbors and local roads, which may be compounded by existing small lots and narrow, winding roadways. 8. Accommodate new accessory dwelling units while minimizing their potential effects on street parking and emergency vehicle access. Page 141Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 KNIGHTSEN - CONTEXT - 1 Knightsen has a long history as an East County farming community, with early settlers planting almond trees and establishing dairies in the early 1880s. A decade later, the Santa Fe Railroad was constructed through Knightsen, connecting Stockton to San Francisco and solidifying Knightsen’s presence as an independent community. The first buildings soon followed, with the construction of a station house, railroad station, grocery store, and post office; the Knightsen Farm Bureau was established in 1918. Despite more than a century of activity, Knightsen has remained a small, caring community. Residents are proud of its agricultural character and prefer to maintain the community’s small size. This is reinforced by the Urban Limit Line (ULL), which prevents growth outside of the existing community boundary and preserves the surrounding agricultural land for farming. Knightsen’s agricultural identity and local economy is supported by a small agritourism industry, with U-pick farms and produce stands advertising fresh fruit and vegetables to residents and visitors alike. Knightsen has been proactive in addressing its service and utility needs, starting in 1920 with the establishment of the Knightsen Irrigation District, which was quickly absorbed by the East Contra Costa Irrigation District. From 2005-2023 the Knightsen Town Community Services District worked to enhance flood control and improve water quality, both topics of significant concern given Knightsen’s position in a low elevation area that receives substantial runoff. Today, residents remain concerned about water quality and water service, and they would like increased code enforcement in support of the community’s health and safety. WHO LIVES IN KNIGHTSEN? Median Household Income VS $85,228 in Knightsen $103,997inContra Costa County Race & Ethnicity ►39% Hispanic or Latino ►36% White ►9% Asian ►8% Black or African American Average Life Expectancy VS 82 years old in Knightsen 81 years old inContra Costa County Median Age VS 37 years old in Knightsen 40 years old inContra Costa County Source: Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 20202 0 Scale (Miles) 1 (Community-submitted photo.) Page 142Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 KNIGHTSEN - CONTEXT - 2 HAZARDS Agricultural pests and diseases Air quality Coastal flooding Drought Extreme heat Flooding Fog Human health hazards Severe storms MAJOR VULNERABILITIES Outdoor workers are vulnerable to agricultural pests and diseases, poor air quality, extreme heat, and human health hazards. Agricultural operations are vulnerable to agricultural pests and diseases, drought, extreme heat, flooding, and severe storms. Delta Road, Sellers Avenue, and the Union Pacific railway are vulnerable to extreme heat, flooding, and severe storms. Water and wastewater systems are vulnerable to coastal flooding and flooding, as they are prone to overflow when inundated with water. Knightsen Elementary School is vulnerable to damage by flooding and severe weather. 0 Scale (Miles) 1 FLOOD ZONES Source: FEMA, 2019; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. A 100-year flood zone represents a 1% chance of flooding in any given year. A 500-year flood zone represents a 0.2% chance of flooding in any given year. These images represent hazards to which Knightsen is vulnerable, including agricultural pests and diseases, extreme heat, and drought. The information on this page presents a summary of hazards and vulnerabilities in Knightsen based on the Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment; please see the online Vulnerability Assessment for a full description of these hazards and vulnerabilities. (Credit: USDA, https://www.nifa.usda.gov/grants/programs/pest-management-programs.) Page 143Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 KNIGHTSEN - GUIDANCE - 3 GUIDING PRINCIPLES The following guiding principles articulate the values, priorities, and aspirations for the future shared by Knightsen community members: 1. Knightsen’s rural, tight-knit, family-oriented, and agricultural character should be preserved. 2. Agricultural operations should be protected. 3. Development should embrace the community’s historic, rural character. 4. Roadways should be safe for all users, including pedestrians, bicyclists, drivers, and agricultural operators. 5. Knightsen’s quietness and isolation should be maintained. PLANNED LAND USE Land use designations for Knightsen are shown on Figure LU-1, General Plan Land Use Map, and are defined in the Land Use Element. Knightsen has been planned to retain its existing character as an agricultural community and preserve the agricultural nature of the surrounding area. Residential use is predominantly very low density, slightly increasing as it approaches the commercial core of the community. The existing commercial core will be retained to attract community serving businesses and revitalize and beautify the central area. Agricultural uses surround Knightsen. (Community-submitted photo.)Farm stand in Knightsen. (Community-submitted photo.) Single-family homes in Knightsen.Public and commercial uses in the downtown area. Page 144Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 KNIGHTSEN - GUIDANCE - 4 ACTIONS 1. Plant and maintain street trees and install street lighting downtown to support walkability. 2. Increase coordination between Code Enforcement and the Sheriff’s Office to combat nuisances such as illegal dumping, large unpermitted parties, and unpermitted firearm shooting. 3. Support implementation of a Safe Routes to School Program and provide adequate pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure to Knightsen Elementary and Old River Elementary. 4. Provide wider sidewalks and more shoulder space along roads to protect pedestrians and accommodate horses. 5. Implement measures to slow down traffic and limit traffic impacts from local agritourism. POLICIES 1. Support agriculture as an important part of Knightsen’s character, including crop cultivation and animal keeping and raising. 2. Encourage re-use and rehabilitation of historic buildings and provide landscaping and street lighting to beautify the commercial area. 3. Encourage small business development that provides a full range of services for residents and is tailored to Knightsen’s small-town character. 4. Facilitate community events downtown. 5. Address concerns regarding pesticide exposure for both people and biological resources. 6. Support efforts to protect the quality of well water. 7. Continue improving services related to code enforcement and public health and safety. 8. Prevent light pollution from interfering with views of the night sky. 9. Prohibit cannabis businesses in Knightsen. Page 145Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Situated along San Pablo Avenue in the northwestern part of the county, these four communities are made up of single-family neighborhoods with some multiple-family homes and commercial storefronts. Residents enjoy spectacular views of San Pablo Bay and easy highway access to regional job centers in Richmond, Oakland, and beyond. Residents also appreciate the relatively modest home prices in this area. Montalvin Manor, Tara Hills, Bayview, and Rollingwood offer recreational opportunities in pocket parks, along trails, and at the Montara Bay ballfields/ community center. Residents would like to enhance the trail network along the shoreline to connect two existing segments of the Bay Trail near Garrity Creek. The historic Union Pacific Railroad runs along this shoreline, creating challenges for safe and convenient access to the bay. Interstate 80 skirts the eastern edge of Tara Hills, and traffic congestion and related air pollution during peak commute hours cause problems for residents. Surface streets can be severely congested, and pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure is limited, impeding access to local amenities. Many of the neighborhood-serving commercial spaces in the community have become vacant over time, limiting local service options and attracting illegal dumping. MONTALVIN MANOR, TARA HILLS, BAYVIEW, AND ROLLINGWOOD - CONTEXT - 1 WHO LIVES IN MONTALVIN MANOR, TARA HILLS, BAYVIEW, AND ROLLINGWOOD? Median Age VS 38 years old in Montara Bay and Rollingwood 40 years old inContra Costa County Median Household Income VS $87,838 in Montara Bay and Rollingwood $103,997inContra Costa County Race & Ethnicity ►50% Hispanic or Latino ►19% Asian ►14% White ►13% Black or African American Average Life Expectancy VS 80 years old in Montara Bay and Rollingwood 81 years old inContra Costa County 0 Scale (Miles) 1 Source: Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. Page 146Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 MONTALVIN MANOR, TARA HILLS, BAYVIEW, AND ROLLINGWOOD - CONTEXT - 2 HAZARDS Air quality from increased ozone and diesel particulate matter Coastal flooding Extreme heat Flooding Human health hazards Landslide and debris flow Seismic hazards MAJOR VULNERABILITIES Persons experiencing chronic illnesses, homeless persons, and households in poverty are vulnerable to poor air quality, extreme heat, and human health hazards. Homes in Bayview are vulnerable to sea level rise and coastal flooding. Amtrak and freight rail lines that run through Montalvin Manor are vulnerable to coastal flooding and sea level rise. Homes and schools in Tara Hills are vulnerable to landslides and debris flows. Public transit access, water and wastewater services, energy delivery services, and solid waste removal services are vulnerable to multiple hazards. LANDSLIDES 0 Scale (Miles) 1 0 Scale (Miles) 1 Source: US Geological Survey, 2018; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. The information on this page presents a summary of hazards and vulnerabilities in Montalvin Manor, Tara Hills, Bayview, and Rollingwood based on the Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment; please see the online Vulnerability Assessment for a full description of these hazards and vulnerabilities. For information on tsunami hazards, see Figure HS-6, Tsunami Hazard Areas, in the Health and Safety Element. FLOOD ZONES Source: FEMA, 2019; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. A 100-year flood zone represents a 1% chance of flooding in any given year. A 500-year flood zone represents a 0.2% chance of flood-ing in any given year. Page 147Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 MONTALVIN MANOR, TARA HILLS, BAYVIEW, AND ROLLINGWOOD - CONTEXT - 3 IMPACTED COMMUNITY The County has identified Montalvin Manor, Tara Hills, Bayview, and Rollingwood as Impacted Communities under Senate Bill (SB) 1000, which requires the County to integrate environmental justice into the General Plan. This law is based on the understanding that some communities have experienced a combination of historic discrimination, negligence, and political and economic disempowerment. Often, this has resulted in a disproportionate burden of pollution and health impacts and disproportionate social and economic disadvantages in these communities. The 21 indicators that contribute to Montalvin Manor, Tara Hills, Bayview, and Rollingwood’s identification as Impacted Communities are highlighted in the chart to the right, with additional details provided in the maps that follow, based on State data from CalEnviroScreen. The chart shows how Montalvin Manor, Tara Hills, Bayview, and Rollingwood rank for each indicator compared to the rest of the state. The County identifies Impacted Communities as those where the combined ranking for all factors is 72 percent or higher. While there are multiple Census tracts that make up Montalvin Manor, Tara Hills, Bayview, and Rollingwood, this chart presents only the most-impacted Census tract among these communities. There are multiple brownfield sites in the area, some of which remain vacant due to high clean- up costs or risk of contact with hazardous substances. In the decade prior to 1975, the nearby Pinole Point Steel Company discharged toxins into an on-site pond, which is now monitored with land use restrictions to prevent contamination. Clean up of hazardous materials has also been required at the Pinole Point Business Park and former Chevron facilities, and other remediation efforts are ongoing within the community. Other nearby industrial and manufacturing facilities in Richmond, Hercules, and Pinole impact the human and environmental health of local residential neighborhoods. In addition, the car-oriented landscape constrains active transportation such as walking and bicycling, which may be a contributing factor to high rates of cardiovascular disease, asthma, and low birth weight infants, as shown in the chart. Access to emergency services and hospitals is of significant concern in these four communities. With the recent closure of a nearby medical center, residents must travel farther on congested roads to receive care. IMPACTED COMMUNITY INDICATORS (2021) Ranking of Most Impacted Census Tract in Montalvin Manor, Tara Hills, Bayview, and Rollingwood Relative to the State Air Quality: Ozone Concentration Air Quality: Fine Particle (PM2.5) Concentration Diesel Particulate Matter Emissions Concentration of Toxic Releases Traffic Density Pesticide Use Concentration of Drinking Water Contaminants Children's Lead Risk from Housing Concentration of Clean Up Sites Susceptibility to Groundwater Threats Density of Hazardous Waste Facilities Proximity to Impaired Water Bodies Proximity to Solid Waste Sites Asthma-Induced Emergency Room Visits Low Birth Weight Infants Heart Attack-Induced Emergency Room Visits Population Without a High School Degree Limited English Speaking Households Poverty Relative Unemployment Housing Burdened Low Income Households 0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70% 72% 80%90%100% 8% 37% 60% 27% 9% 4% 98% 89% 87% 98% 93% 86% 63% 36% 54% 73% 79% 60% 7070% 6565% 6464% Page 148Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 MONTALVIN MANOR, TARA HILLS, BAYVIEW, AND ROLLINGWOOD - CONTEXT - 4 This map ranks Census tracts based on the density of hazardous waste facilities and generators, considering each facility’s type and permit status and generator activities. Parts of Montalvin Manor, Tara Hills, Bayview, and Rollingwood are ranked at 89 percent, meaning that the Census tract has a density of hazardous waste facilities and generators that is worse than 89 percent of the state. HAZARDOUS WASTE Source: CalEnviroscreen, 2021; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. 0 Scale (Miles) 10 Scale (Miles) 1 This map ranks Census tracts based on the concentration of clean up sites, which are sites undergoing clean up actions by governmental authorities or property owners due to environmental degradation from hazardous substances. The ranking also considers the nature and magnitude of the threat and the site type and status. Parts of Montalvin Manor, Tara Hills, Bayview, and Rollingwood are ranked at 98 percent, meaning that the Census tract has a concentration of clean up sites that is higher than 98 percent of the state. CLEAN UP SITES Source: CalEnviroscreen, 2021; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022.Page 149Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 MONTALVIN MANOR, TARA HILLS, BAYVIEW, AND ROLLINGWOOD - GUIDANCE - 5 GUIDING PRINCIPLES The following guiding principles articulate the values, priorities, and aspirations for the future shared by Montalvin Manor, Tara Hills, Bayview, and Rollingwood community members: 1. The diverse and distinctive character of these communities should be preserved and promoted. 2. Sweeping views of San Pablo Bay and Mount Tamalpais provide a beautiful backdrop for the area and should be preserved. 3. Residents value their access to wildlife habitat, open spaces, and nature along the shoreline and at Garrity Creek. Trail access to these areas should be preserved and increased. 4. Water recreation uses along the shoreline should be encouraged, and shoreline access should be improved. 5. Local retail and commercial centers, particularly at the intersection of San Pablo Avenue and Tara Hills Drive, should be revitalized with new neighborhood- serving businesses and community gathering places within walking distance of residential uses. 6. Young residents of these communities should be nurtured with high-quality youth programming. 7. Residents should have access to a comprehensive transportation system that is safe, functional, and meets the need of multiple user groups. 8. The variety of the existing housing stock should be maintained and enhanced. 9. Residents should have local access to quality medical care and emergency services. 10. Residents should be protected from adverse health impacts, especially those associated with traffic congestion and emissions along Interstate 80. PLANNED LAND USE Land use designations for Montalvin Manor, Tara Hills, Bayview, and Rollingwood are shown on Figure LU-1, General Plan Land Use Map, and are defined in the Land Use Element. Montalvin Manor, Tara Hills, Bayview, and Rollingwood are planned primarily for low-medium and medium-density residential uses with small pockets of mixed use, commercial, higher- density residential, public/institutional, and parks and recreation land uses. There are two small commercial areas located along San Pablo Avenue, at Tara Hills Drive and Richmond Parkway. Both sites are planned for community-serving businesses that are walkable and accessible by multiple transportation modes. The area designated Mixed-Use at the intersection of San Pablo Avenue and Tara Hills Drive is intended to serve as a town center and commercial core planned for a range of neighborhood shopping, residential, and office uses that will stimulate improvements and reinvestment. Ideally, this mixed-use area will also serve as a central community gathering place. In Rollingwood, high-density residential and commercial uses are concentrated at the southwest end of Rollingwood Drive; one parcel in the eastern part of the community is planned for commercial use and is accessible via El Portal Drive. Montalvin Manor, Tara Hills, and Bayview wrap around the shoreline of San Pablo Bay, providing residents with beautiful views and valued access to nature. As such, access to shoreline and trail connections will be preserved through resource conservation and park and recreation designations. Existing single-family home in the community. Existing multi-family housing in Tara Hills. Existing shopping center in Bayview. Existing park and open space in Montalvin Manor. Page 150Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 MONTALVIN MANOR, TARA HILLS, BAYVIEW, AND ROLLINGWOOD - GUIDANCE - 6 POLICIES (CONTINUED) 8. Address parking problems by implementing parking management strategies and requiring sufficient off-street space when new development is approved. 9. Incentivize the development of medical care services or a hospital nearby to improve access to healthcare. 10. Coordinate with the cities of Richmond and Pinole on decisions that affect Montalvin Manor, Tara Hills, Bayview, and Rollingwood residents. 11. Beautify the community, including the shoreline, through physical improvements as well as increased code enforcement and vegetation maintenance. 12. Allow for urban agriculture uses on vacant lots, in coordination with property owners, to encourage community cohesion and health. GUIDING PRINCIPLES (CONTINUED) 11. Neighborhoods should be beautified to attract businesses and improve community pride. 12. Residents who lack housing should be treated with dignity and respect and have access to quality programs and services that facilitate access to secure and stable housing. Residents who are at risk of losing housing should be protected from displacement. 13. Residents should feel safe in their communities with quality police protection services and a built environment that deters crime. POLICIES 1. In the mixed-use area at the intersection of San Pablo Avenue and Tara Hills Drive, attract and retain neighborhood-serving commercial and office uses. Support the development of new commercial uses and local-serving businesses while promoting new residential development. 2. Prioritize the preservation of scenic views and access to natural lands, open spaces, and trails. 3. Require new development to protect habitat areas and create additional parks. 4. Encourage commercial uses to be at a neighborhood scale and serve the needs of the community. 5. Encourage and attract high-quality, health-conscious, neighborhood-serving stores and restaurants, especially at the shopping center at the intersection of San Pablo Avenue and Tara Hills Drive. 6. Require the massing and scale of new development to be consistent with the community’s character. 7. Consider the cumulative impacts on traffic congestion from development and require new development to improve sidewalk connections and provide bicycle infrastructure. Page 151Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 MONTALVIN MANOR, TARA HILLS, BAYVIEW, AND ROLLINGWOOD - GUIDANCE - 7 ACTIONS 1. Conduct a traffic study to analyze and address circulation deficiencies and constraints. The study should evaluate the high traffic congestion along San Pablo Avenue, Richmond Parkway, Tara Hills Drive, and adjacent surface streets, and identify mitigation, such as improved signal timing and effective left-turn lanes, especially at the intersection of Richmond Parkway and San Pablo Avenue. 2. Add resident-friendly pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure along major thoroughfares, including San Pablo Avenue, Richmond Parkway, and Tara Hills Drive, such as crosswalks, sidewalks, bike lanes, a sound barrier, landscaping, and other streetscape improvements. 3. Assist a community-led effort to develop a communitywide parking management plan that addresses the lack of on-street parking. 4. Work with local transit providers to increase connections to BART stations, especially the El Cerrito Del Norte station, and to construct additional transit stop shelters that improve the safety and comfort of transit users without attracting loitering. 5. As a high priority, coordinate with County agencies, non-profits, and other organizations to investigate the feasibility of opening an emergency shelter to house residents of all ages that are homeless. 6. As a high priority, invest in neighborhood beautification, such as through urban greening and clean-up efforts for graffiti, illegal dumping, and abandoned vehicles. 7. Work with the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) to connect existing open spaces with a contiguous, well-maintained Bay Trail link along the shoreline from Point Wilson to Point Pinole for outdoor recreation and fishing. 8. Study the feasibility of constructing a bridge over the railroad at Point Wilson to facilitate connections to the water. 9. Improve and increase connections to wildlife habitat, open spaces, and trails along the shoreline and Garrity Creek. ACTIONS (CONTINUED) 10. Assist a community-led process to increase youth programming at the Montara Bay Park Community Center and other recreation spaces throughout the four communities. 11. Establish a town center and community gathering place at the intersection of San Pablo Avenue and Tara Hills Drive to serve as a gathering space for residents of the four communities. Identify funding sources and strategies to support development of the town center. 12. Identify locations and develop additional opportunities for recreation and access to nature, including a conveniently accessible dog park and a playground. Page 152Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Surrounded almost entirely by the City of Richmond, North Richmond was a quiet, rural area until World War II attracted workers to the nearby Kaiser Shipyards. Due to redlining practices and housing discrimination, Black and other minority workers found it challenging to find housing closer to the ports and railyards, forcing them to relocate to North Richmond. North Richmond became a pocket of affordable, accessible housing for minority households, but with little neighborhood infrastructure. Following wartime, many residents stayed to work in the petroleum, railroad, and shipping in- dustries in Rich mond, and the community continued to grow. Today, North Richmond is primarily residential south of Wildcat Creek. North of the creek, heavy industrial uses dominate. Housing is relatively affordable compared to the rest of the Bay Area, but the housing stock is aging and many households face high housing cost burdens and poor infrastructure. These fac- tors, combined with North Richmond’s proximity to job centers and its location on the Interstate 80 cor- ridor, place the community at risk of gentrification and displacement. The risk is highest for renters, who comprise a majority of the community. While the Contra Costa County Housing Authority offers housing choice vouchers to eligible applicants, residents would like more affordable housing incorporated into new development. There is a strong and growing local urban farming movement that has transformed vacant lots into community gardens, im proving access to fresh, healthy, and affordable food. North Richmond residents are actively engaged in local planning and advocate for their community through Urban Tilth, the Verde Elementary School, the Watershed Project, and other community organi- zations. Planning is complicated by jurisdictional lines, with part of the neighborhood within the Richmond city limit. Given its proximity to heavy industrial uses, including the Chevron Richmond Refinery, residents are very concerned about community health, along with other issues like crime and illegal dumping. There are regulations in place to mitigate emissions from new industrial users, and the community is working with the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) to develop an action framework for com- munity air protection. In addition, while there have been recent levee improvements and streetscape and sidewalk improvements, community members would like additional roadway infrastructure and transit im provements that ensure safe, equitable, and affordable transportation access for all modes. North Rich- mond is within the planning area of the 2020 Richmond Area Community-Based Transportation Plan, a plan developed by the Contra Costa Transportation Authority to address the community’s mobility needs. (Community-submitted photo.) NORTH RICHMOND - CONTEXT - 1 WHO LIVES IN NORTH RICHMOND? Median Age VS 34 years old in North Richmond 40 years old inContra Costa County Median Household Income VS $59,312 in North Richmond $103,997inContra Costa County Race & Ethnicity ►68% Hispanic or Latino ►21% Black or African American ►6% Asian ►3% White Average Life Expectancy VS 77 years old in North Richmond 81 years old inContra Costa County Source: Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. 0 .5 Scale (Miles)Page 153Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 NORTH RICHMOND - CONTEXT - 2 The information on this page presents a summary of hazards and vulnerabilities in the North Richmond community based on the Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment; please see the Health and Safety Element for more information about tsunami hazards and the online Vulnerability Assessment for a full description of the other hazards and vulnerabilities. HAZARDS Air quality from increased ozone and diesel particulate matter Coastal flooding Extreme heat Flooding Human health hazards Seismic hazards MAJOR VULNERABILITIES Cost-burdened households and households in poverty are vulnerable to coastal flooding and seismic hazards. Persons experiencing chronic illnesses, homeless persons, and households in poverty are vulnerable to air quality, extreme heat, and human health hazards. Levees located in North Richmond are vulnerable to coastal flooding. The recycling center in North Richmond is vulnerable to coastal flooding. Public transit access, water and wastewater services, energy delivery services, and solid waste removal services are vulnerable to multiple hazards. FLOOD ZONESTSUNAMI HAZARD MAP Source: FEMA, 2019; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. Source: California Department of Conservation, 2022; California Geological Survey (CGS), 2022; California Office of Emergency Services (CalOES), 2022; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. 0 Scale (Miles) .5 0 Scale (Miles) .5 A 100-year flood zone represents a 1% chance of flooding in any given year. A 500-year flood zone represents a 0.2% chance of flooding in any given year. Page 154Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 NORTH RICHMOND - CONTEXT - 3 IMPACTED COMMUNITY The County has identified North Richmond as an Impacted Community under Senate Bill (SB) 1000, which requires the County to integrate environmental justice into the General Plan. This law is based on the understanding that some communities have experienced a combination of historic discrimination, negligence, and political and economic disempowerment. Often, this has resulted in a disproportionate burden of pollution and health impacts and disproportionate social and economic disadvantages in these communities. The 21 indicators that contribute to North Richmond’s identification as an Impacted Community are highlighted in the chart to the right, with additional details provided in the maps that follow, based on State data from CalEnviroScreen. The chart shows how North Richmond ranks for each indicator compared to the rest of the state. The County identifies Impacted Communities as those where the combined ranking for all factors is 72 percent or higher. North Richmond experiences high levels of diesel particulate matter due to the oil refinery, chemical companies, highways, truck traffic, rail yards, shipping ports, and marine terminals located within and near the community. Exposure to air pollution and chemicals contributes to eye, throat, and nose irritation, along with heart and lung disease. As shown in the chart, North Richmond residents visit the emergency room for asthma conditions at a rate that is among the highest rate in the state. There are frequent violations of air quality rules from facilities in and around North Richmond, and air testing has found unsafe levels of industrial pollutants inside residents’ homes. There are also many hazardous waste facilities and generators that affect North Richmond, including the Chevron Refinery, chemical companies, and Superfund sites. Beyond the acute risks to human and environmental health, these sources also raise concerns about odors, vermin, and increased freight traffic. The community is also burdened by historical and perceived high rates of crime. In addition to safety concerns, outdoor recreation and active transportation are hampered by a lack of trail maintenance and the need for more connected walking and biking infrastructure. Limited access to active recreation and transportation, coupled with limited access to stores that sell fresh and healthy food, can lead to poor health outcomes for local residents. However, a strong and growing urban agriculture movement is helping to bring healthy food options to North Richmond. IMPACTED COMMUNITY INDICATORS (2021) Ranking of Most Impacted Census Tract in North Richmond Relative to the State Air Quality: Ozone Concentration Air Quality: Fine Particle (PM2.5) Concentration Diesel Particulate Matter Emissions Concentration of Toxic Releases Traffic Density Pesticide Use Concentration of Drinking Water Contaminants Children's Lead Risk from Housing Concentration of Clean Up Sites Susceptibility to Groundwater Threats Density of Hazardous Waste Facilities Proximity to Impaired Water Bodies Proximity to Solid Waste Sites Asthma-Induced Emergency Room Visits Low Birth Weight Infants Heart Attack-Induced Emergency Room Visits Population Without a High School Degree Limited English Speaking Households Poverty Relative Unemployment Housing Burdened Low Income Households 0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70% 72% 80%90%100% 6% 40% 62% 28% 26% 4% 81% 99% 86% 100% 90% 97% 99% 88% 93% 94% 76% 82% 73% 77% 42% Page 155Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 NORTH RICHMOND - CONTEXT - 4 This map ranks Census tracts based on the concentration of clean up sites, which are sites undergoing clean up actions by governmental authorities or property owners due to environmental degradation from hazardous substances. The ranking also considers the nature and magnitude of the threat and the site type and status. The North Richmond Census tract is ranked at 99 percent, meaning that the area has a concentration of clean up sites that is higher than 99 percent of the state. In addition, some of the clean up sites in North Richmond are within the 100 year and 500 year flood zones (see map on page 2), posing risk of further contamination during a flood event. CLEAN UP SITES 0 Scale (Miles) .5 Source: CalEnviroscreen, 2021; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. This map ranks Census tracts based on the density of hazardous waste facilities and generators (e.g., the Chevron Refinery), considering each facility’s type and permit status and generator activities. The North Richmond Census tract is ranked at 100 percent, meaning that it has a density of hazardous waste facilities and generators that is among the highest in the state. HAZARDOUS WASTE San Pablo Bay Wildcat Cre e k Sa n Pa b lo Creek Goodrick Ave Brookside Dr Sanford Ave W Gertrude Ave Ra m p 13th St 1 st St Giant Rd Parr B lvd Rumrill Blvd Chesley Ave Market A v e 3rd St Richmond PkyNorthRichmond City ofSan PabloNorth RichmondCenter forHealth Urban Tilth West ContraCosta Landfill EBMUD WaterReclamationPlant West CountyRecyclingCenter West CountyWastewater Hazardous Waste Generators and Facilities Map 0 0.50.25 MilesIncorporated City Urban Limit Line Creeks and Drainages Railroads North Richmond Source: CalEnviroscreen, 2021; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. City ofRichmond Mt. Diablo Creek0 to 50% >50 to 60% >60 to 70% >70 to 80% >80 to 90% >90 to 100% Generators of Hazardous Waste Clean Up Sites Generators of Hazardous Waste Page 156Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 (Credit: Urban Tilth.)(Credit: Urban Tilth.) (Credit: Urban Tilth.) NORTH RICHMOND - CONTEXT - 5 This map ranks Census tracts based on the proximity to solid waste sites and facilities, considering each facility’s type, proximity to nearby communities, reported odor complaints, and more. The North Richmond Census tract is ranked at 97 percent, meaning that the area is more exposed to solid waste hazards than 97 percent of the state. SOLID WASTE 0 Scale (Miles) .5 Source: CalEnviroscreen, 2021; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022 Page 157Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 NORTH RICHMOND - GUIDANCE - 6 GUIDING PRINCIPLES In 2019, Healthy Richmond published the Quality of Life (QOL) Plan, which was developed with robust community engagement under the direction of the North Richmond Leadership Team, a group of North Richmond residents dedicated to organizing and voicing the aspirations and concerns of the North Richmond community. The QOL Plan informed the creation of guiding principles, policies, and actions in this community profile; references to specific QOL Plan priorities are noted in parentheses at the end of relevant policies and actions. The following guiding principles articulate the values, priorities, and aspirations for the future shared by North Richmond community members: 1. Affordable rental and ownership housing opportunities should be expanded and integrated into market rate developments. A range of housing types should be available to meet extremely low, very low, and low income levels, and existing community members should be prioritized for available housing. 2. Achievement of housing development goals should be balanced with maintaining quality of life, parking availability, circulation, and property values for current residents. 3. North Richmond residents who lack housing should have access to quality services and be treated with dignity and respect. Vital, easy-to-access community programs related to homelessness, rehabilitation, education and training, youth, and elderly services should be available. 4. Sensitive uses, like schools, senior housing, and child-care facilities, should be buffered from heavy industrial uses. 5. Industrial uses in and around North Richmond should transition to renewable energy and other clean industries that do not pose health risks to the neighborhood. 6. North Richmond residents should have better access to Wildcat Creek, the shoreline, and other parks and green spaces. Students at Verde Elementary should be able to access open spaces via a safe and connected trail network. 7. North Richmond should provide a healthy and safe environment, where vacant lots have transitioned into vibrant community assets like community gardens and playgrounds. PLANNED LAND USE Land use designations for North Richmond are shown on Figure LU-1, General Plan Land Use Map, and are defined in the Land Use Element. Most of North Richmond is planned for continued light industrial, public, and resource conservation uses. The area south of Wildcat Creek is the heart of the community and is planned for the continuation of residential uses at a range of densities, supported by local-serving commercial development. The mixed-use designations along Fred Jackson Way, Market Avenue, and Chesley Avenue are intended to create a combination of affordable, multiple-family residential units and ground-level retail and office uses. The North Richmond Design Guidelines provide more detailed design guidance for development in this area. Multi-family senior housing in North Richmond.Small lot single-family housing in North Richmond. Public facilities celebrating community culture in North Richmond. 013 014 015 Page 158Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #013 Posted by Johana on 01/10/2024 at 7:21pm [Comment ID: 22] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 Creating community funds that can establish, maintain and encourage buffer projects that promote community identified resources, air quality improvement, driven by community health data. #014 Posted by Johana on 01/10/2024 at 7:26pm [Comment ID: 23] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 Creating community funds that can establish, maintain and encourage buffer projects that promote community identified resources, air quality improvement, driven by community health data. #015 Posted by Johana on 01/10/2024 at 7:07pm [Comment ID: 21] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 Housing affordability language should include specific percentages. In the Quality of Life Plan, it states that at least 50% of new development should be designated affordable. Of those affordable units we'd want 1/3 low income (50-80% of Area Median Income), 1/3 very low income (30-50% AMI), 1/3 extremely low income (below 30% AMI). We want to see language that promotes rent-to-buy programs, and other ownership models that encourage homeownership. Page 159Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 NORTH RICHMOND - GUIDANCE - 7 POLICIES (CONTINUED) 5. Continue to monitor air quality through air quality sensors installed throughout the community as part of the Community Air Protection Program (Assembly Bill 617). 6. Require that new development incorporate green infrastructure solutions to minimize flooding and environmental pollution, such as bioswales, detention or retention ponds, and cisterns that capture rainwater for irrigation. (QOL I.7) 7. Promote the use of native plants in green infrastructure, landscaping, and parks. 8. Support implementation of the 2020 Richmond Area Community-Based Transportation Plan. 9. Encourage community engagement, social cohesion, and restorative practices in support of community safety and crime prevention objectives. 10. Support workforce development and wealth-building programs for residents and locally owned businesses, cooperatives, and other uses offering benefits to the community, such as grocery stores, community kitchens, and child-care facilities. (QOL B.1) 11. Seek community benefit agreements for new large commercial developments. Such agreements could include requirements for local hiring, apprenticeship and training programs, and funding for school and education programs. (QOL H.4, B.3) 12. Continue to support vibrant urban agriculture operations. (3-194) ACTIONS 1. Seek funding to construct a new community and cultural center that serves youth and families, and support programming that promotes employment opportunities and workforce development. (QOL Y.3, I.5, I.6) 2. Seek Opportunity Zone funding or support community advocacy for a social impact bond, with non-profit governance, to develop funds for renovation of homes by the local labor force. 3. Restore creeks with native plants, including planting an urban forest at the eastern end of Wildcat Creek, and develop new amenities, connections, and access points along Wildcat Creek. Consider partnering with local non-profit organizations to maintain vegetation along the creek. GUIDING PRINCIPLES (CONTINUED) 8. Streets should be made more inviting by repairing and adding sidewalks, increasing street lighting, planting trees, improving parking, and eliminating illegal dumping. Public infrastructure, including green infrastructure, should be upgraded and well-maintained, and the design of the built environment should contribute to crime prevention. 9. North Richmond should be a safe place for people of all abilities to walk, bike, and drive. Speeding and cut-through traffic should be eliminated, negative impacts from truck traffic should be mitigated, and rail crossings should be separated from roadways. 10. North Richmond residents should have access to affordable and reliable public transportation, with more frequent bus connections to the BART station and bus stops that provide amenities to increase safety and comfort, such as shelters, benches, lighting, and landscaping. 11. North Richmond residents should enjoy easy access to affordable, healthy, and fresh food, including grocery stores, farmers markets, and community gardens. 12. New mixed-use and commercial development that benefits local residents and the community should be encouraged. The local economy should offer diverse employment opportunities that promote social mobility and self-sufficiency. POLICIES 1. Coordinate with the West Contra Costa Unified School District, the City of Richmond, and residents, including youth, to enhance existing open spaces, including Shields-Reid Park, Verde Elementary School, and Lucky A’s Field, to provide the fullest civic, educational, social, and recreational benefits for the community. (QOL I.3) 2. Coordinate with local non-profits to celebrate the history of diversity in North Richmond through community events, public art, and music. 3. Prohibit the construction of large walls or gates that divide the community. (QOL Y.4) 4. Require that new industrial development pay special attention to upgrading the visual appearance and unity of the area through quality architectural and landscape design and utility undergrounding. (3-188) 016 Page 160Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #016 Posted by Johana on 01/10/2024 at 6:59pm [Comment ID: 20] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 Land use should be tailored to the needs of the community and language should not be general like " commercial mixed use". We should think about land use on a case-by-case basis, especially in North Richmond. We should have language that encourages small businesses, service-based businesses, restaurants, community kitchens, and the like. We do not want more industrial business in the community. Page 161Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 NORTH RICHMOND - GUIDANCE - 8 ACTIONS (CONTINUED) 4. Construct trail connections to the Bay Trail and to residential areas, including the residential areas adjacent to Wildcat Creek, and install amenities like educational signs, bathrooms, water fountains, and benches. 5. Assist a community-led process to seek funding for a multi-use trail over Richmond Parkway to complete the Wildcat Creek Trail crossing to the marsh. 6. Install and monitor security cameras in areas where illegal dumping is prevalent. 7. Prepare and implement a street corridor and gateway beautification plan that celebrates the unique historical identity of North Richmond and instills civic pride and a sense of unity among residents. (QOL B.6) 8. Update the North Richmond Specific Plan to encompass the entire community and integrate goals and concepts from recent planning efforts, including the 2019 Quality of Life Plan and the 2018 Priority Resilience Plan developed as part of the Bay Area Resilient by Design Challenge. (QOL I.8) 9. Support the Safe Routes to School Program by providing adequate pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure around Verde Elementary. 10. Develop a plan for equitable access to active transportation and to address speeding, dangerous intersections, and cut-through traffic on 1st Street and Richmond Parkway. (QOL S.1) 11. Install pedestrian and bicycle improvements to increase safety along Fred Jackson Way. 12. Designate truck routes that minimize impacts on schools and homes. 13. Adopt viable methods to encourage local residents to open businesses in North Richmond, such as proactive outreach to the community, assisting with funding through various tax incentives, streamlining entitlement processes, and revising County ordinances and fees. Page 162Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Pacheco sits just east of Martinez and west of Buchanan Field Airport in cen- tral Contra Costa County. It was once a prosperous shipping center for grain exports, but fires and earthquakes in the mid-19th century resulted in much of its population relocating to Concord. Today it encompasses a variety of uses, including residen tial, commercial, office, and light industry. Residents take pride in being part of a neighborly, self-sufficient community with easy access to nature. The community enjoys access to the Iron Horse Trail and Contra Costa Canal Trail, which connect Pacheco to other locations in the region. Residents seek improved connections to these trails and to the Benicia Bridge to increase walking and biking options for commut ing and recreation. Commercial uses line Pacheco Boulevard and Center Avenue near Interstate 680, with surrounding areas consisting primarily of single- or multiple-family resi dences. The community appreciates the relatively affordable homes in the area and seeks to create additional affordable housing options, including mobile homes and teacher housing. The community would also like to reinvigorate commercial corridors by strengthening businesses along main thoroughfares. It’s also important to residents that a buffer be maintained between residential areas and active commercial areas. In addition, residents are concerned about illegal dumping and homeless encampments and would like to beautify streets, mini mize flooding, and support the homeless population with better services. PACHECO - CONTEXT - 1 Source: Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. 0 Scale (Miles) .25 WHO LIVES IN PACHECO? Median Age VS 39 years old in Pacheco 40 years old inContra Costa County Median Household Income VS $80,229 in Pacheco $103,997inContra Costa County Race & Ethnicity ►41% White ►28% Hispanic or Latino ►21% Asian ►5% Black or African American Average Life Expectancy VS 81 years old in Pacheco 81 years old inContra Costa County Page 163Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 PACHECO - CONTEXT - 2 HAZARDS Air quality from increased ozone and diesel particulate matter Extreme heat Flooding Human health hazards Seismic hazards MAJOR VULNERABILITIES Households in poverty, persons experiencing homelessness, and persons with chronic illnesses are vulner-able to air quality, extreme heat, and human health hazards. Highway 680 and Pacheco Boulevard are vulnerable to flooding. Rancho Diablo, Concord Cascade, and Sun Valley Village mobile home parks are vulnerable to flooding, extreme heat, and seismic hazards. Commercial buildings and homes are vulnerable to seismic hazards. Public transit access, water and wastewater services, energy delivery services, and solid waste removal services are vulnerable to multiple hazards. The information on this page presents a summary of hazards and vulnerabilities in Pacheco based on the Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment; please see the online Vulner- ability Assessment for a full description of these hazards and vulnerabilities. Source: Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. 0 Scale (Miles) .5 City of Pleasant Hill City of Concord City of Martinez Grayson Creek Wa l n u t Cr eekPi n e C ree kImhoffMarsh DrCamelbackRdS w eetwater Dr Buchanan Field RdArnold Dr Mui r Rd Me r i d i a n P a r k B l v d S t a r f l ow e r D r Temple DrS o la n o W a y Olivera R d Concord A ve Cont ra Cos ta B lvd ChilpancingoPkyPacheco B l vd680 4 BuchananAir FieldPacheco Flood Hazard Map 0 0.50.25 Miles Pacheco Source: FEMA, 2019; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2019. A 100-year flood zone represents a 1% chance of flooding in any given year. A 500-year flood zone represents a 0.2% chance of flooding in any given year. Flood Hazard Areas 100-Year Flood Zone 500-Year Flood Zone Areas of Undetermined but Possible Flood Hazard Water Unincorporated Areas Incorporated Cities Creeks and Drainages Garrity Creek FLOOD ZONES These images represent hazards to which Pacheco is vulnerable, including earthquakes, flooding, and air quality. Page 164Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 IMPACTED COMMUNITY The County has identified Pacheco as an Impacted Community under Senate Bill (SB) 1000, which requires the County to integrate environmental justice into the General Plan. This law is based on the understanding that some communities have experienced a combination of historic discrimination, negligence, and political and economic disempowerment. Often, this has resulted in a disproportionate burden of pollution and health impacts and disproportion- ate social and economic disadvantages in these communities. The 21 indicators that contribute to Pacheco’s identification as an Impacted Community are highlighted in the chart to the right, with additional details provided in the maps that follow, based on State data from CalEnviroScreen. The chart shows how the Census tract encom- passing Pacheco ranks for each indicator compared to the rest of the state. The County identi- fies Impacted Communities as those where the combined ranking for all factors is 72 percent or higher. While there are multiple Census tracts that make up Pacheco, this chart presents only the most-impacted Census tract in Pacheco. Pacheco is adjacent to the intersection of Highway 4 and Interstate 680, with Interstate 680 bisecting residential parts of the community. Due to its proximity to major thoroughfares and the Buchanan Field Airport, residents in Pacheco face health risks associated with poor air quality, and have higher rates of asthma-induced emergency room visits than other parts of the state. Like other Impacted Communities in the county, there is a high number of cleanup sites in Pacheco. Chemicals from these sites can move through the air or groundwater, placing nearby residents at a greater risk of exposure. Pacheco residents have raised concerns about increasing traffic congestion along major high- ways, as well as air quality and noise issues from the airport. They are also concerned about homeless encampments under the highway overpasses in the community. In addition, Pacheco residents have limited recreation access. While Grayson Creek runs through the community, residents are concerned about the lack of creek maintenance; they would also like better maintenance of Pacheco Creekside Park, along with more trail connec tions and entrances to the park. PACHECO - CONTEXT - 3 IMPACTED COMMUNITY INDICATORS (2021) Ranking of Most Impacted Census Tract in Pacheco Relative to the State Air Quality: Ozone Concentration Air Quality: Fine Particle (PM2.5) Concentration Diesel Particulate Matter Emissions Concentration of Toxic Releases Traffic Density Pesticide Use Concentration of Drinking Water Contaminants Children's Lead Risk from Housing Concentration of Clean Up Sites Susceptibility to Groundwater Threats Density of Hazardous Waste Facilities Proximity to Impaired Water Bodies Proximity to Solid Waste Sites Asthma-Induced Emergency Room Visits Low Birth Weight Infants Heart Attack-Induced Emergency Room Visits Population Without a High School Degree Limited English Speaking Households Poverty Relative Unemployment Housing Burdened Low Income Households 0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70% 72% 80%90%100% 18% 34% 79% 96% 25% 12% 80% 87% 92% 91% 24% 22% 88% 82% 59% 49% 42% 43% 34% 6767% 6767% 017 Page 165Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #017 Posted by Dick Offerman on 01/31/2024 at 2:10pm [Comment ID: 36] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 Stating that Pacheco residents face health risks associated with poor air quality totally disregards one of their real health concerns, harm from lead contamination. Their homes are being dusted repeatedly by lead tainted exhaust from aircraft using leaded aviation fuel. Please stop the County from selling this toxic fuel. Please use an unleaded version of aviation fuel, just like Santa Clara County has done. Page 166Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 PACHECO - CONTEXT - 4 This map ranks Census tracts based on the concentration of clean up sites, which are sites undergoing clean up actions by governmental authorities or property owners due to environ- mental degradation from hazardous substances. The ranking also considers the nature and magnitude of the threat and the site type and status. Parts of Pacheco are ranked at 87 percent, meaning that the Census tract has a concentration of clean up sites that is higher than 87 percent of the state. CLEAN UP SITES Source: CalEnviroscreen, 2021; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. 0 Scale (Miles) .6 This map ranks Census tracts based on the density of hazardous waste facilities and generators, considering each facility’s type and permit status and generator activities. Parts of Pacheco are ranked at 91 percent, meaning that the Census tract has a density of hazard- ous waste facilities and generators that is worse than 91 percent of the state. HAZARDOUS WASTE Source: CalEnviroscreen, 2021; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. 0 Scale (Miles) .5 Page 167Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 PACHECO - GUIDANCE - 5 GUIDING PRINCIPLES The following guiding principles articulate the values, priorities, and aspirations for the future shared by Pacheco community members: 1. Pacheco is a strong, friendly, and family-oriented community. The diverse, inde- pendent culture that distinguishes it from nearby cities should be preserved and cultivated. 2. The variety of the existing housing stock should be maintained and enhanced. 3. The diverse business community should be supported and enhanced. 4. Pacheco’s rich history and heritage should be celebrated. 5. Buchanan Field Airport is integral to the community’s identity and should be sup- ported. 6. Pacheco’s wildlife habitat, open spaces, and connections to nature should be pre- served and expanded. PLANNED LAND USE Land use designations for Pacheco are shown on Figure LU-1, General Plan Land Use Map, and are defined in the Land Use Element. Pacheco is planned for a diverse mix of land uses, includ- ing medium- and medium high-density residential, mixed-use, commercial, and light industrial. Pa checo’s residential areas are located on both sides of Interstate 680. Residential uses west of 680 consist of single-family and multiple-family dwellings, while residences east of 680 consist of mobile homes. No changes are planned for these residential areas. Pacheco’s mixed-use and in- dustrial areas begin at the intersection of Pacheco Boulevard and 2nd Avenue South and extend north along Pacheco Boulevard to Highway 4. This corridor is planned to remain the central hub of local business and industry for Pacheco residents. Applying the Mixed-Use designation along the southern portion of Pacheco Boulevard and Aspen Drive is intended to create a town center to revitalize the area and take advantage of the visual quality and access to Grayson Creek. Infill development on vacant and underutilized parcels in this area is encouraged to promote devel- opment of community-serving uses and new residential options. Pacheco is proximate to local and regional trails, such as the Pacheco Creekside Park path, Contra Costa Canal Trail, Iron Horse Trail, and Bay Trail over the Benicia Bridge. As such, stretches of land designated for resource conservation and parks and recreation will be retained to preserve access. Existing single-family residential in Pacheco.Existing community park in Pacheco.Existing commercial uses in Pacheco.Existing office uses in Pacheco. Page 168Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 PACHECO - GUIDANCE - 6 ACTIONS 1. Identify a suitable location for additional park facilities, including kid-friendly ameni- ties such as play structures, and an expanded community gathering space. 2. Improve pedestrian safety and roadway infrastructure by completing sidewalk gaps and installing continuous street lighting, illuminated crossings, landscaping, and ADA facilities. 3. Implement safe bike routes and infrastructure including painted bike lanes along local roads. 4. Update the Historic Resources Inventory to add structures that may not have been considered historic at the time of the last inventory. POLICIES 1. Coordinate with the cities of Martinez, Pleasant Hill, and Concord to ensure land use conformity across jurisdictional boundaries. 2. Encourage development of additional affordable housing to maintain and enhance Pa- checo’s diversity. 3. Encourage the establishment and growth of locally serving businesses that fulfill the needs of residents, as well as larger commercial and light industrial businesses to provide job opportunities to the community. 4. Utilize Pacheco’s convenient location to promote economic development along major thoroughfares, especially around the intersection of Pacheco Boulevard and Center Avenue. 5. Preserve Pacheco’s historic buildings. 6. Improve connections to local and regional trails, such as the Pacheco Creekside Park path, Contra Costa Canal Trail, Iron Horse Trail, and Bay Trail over the Benicia Bridge. 7. Improve road maintenance and reduce traffic congestion on local roads. This should include encouraging transit providers to expand public transit options and pro moting alternative transportation modes. 8. Improve and maintain stormwater infrastructure to prevent flooding. Page 169Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 PORT COSTA - CONTEXT - 1 Situated among the rolling hills of the East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) open space along the Carquinez Strait, Port Costa is a small town of approximately 200 people. Originally founded in 1879 as a deep-water shipping port, the community had an important role in the export of wheat and was a stop on the transcontinental railroad. Upon the construction of a railroad bridge to Martinez in 1930, Port Costa diminished in size and regional significance. The small community now prides itself on its rich heritage and natural surroundings, preserving a small historic downtown amidst rolling hills, trails, and ranches. The community is close-knit and enjoys a friendly, engaged dynamic. Port Costa is fairly isolated, with only two narrow, winding access roads. Carquinez Scenic Drive connects to Interstate 80 and Crockett to the west, and McEwen Road connects to Highway 4 and Martinez to the south. The predominant land use is single-family housing, with a small downtown area consisting of a few businesses and a post office near the water and railroad. The railroad is in active use today, which inhibits public access to the waterfront, a major concern among residents. Residents are generally content to travel outside the community for daily goods and services, preferring to preserve the small-town charm of Port Costa, but there is some interest in modest business growth to sustain economic vitality. Residents act as stewards of the historic assets in Port Costa. They are also passionate about protecting the surrounding open space and preserving a healthy watershed to ensure a sustainable future. Residents are also interested in establishing a bike trail connection from Port Costa to Crockett. WHO LIVES IN PORT COSTA? Median Household Income VS $88,009 in Port Costa $103,997inContra Costa County Race & Ethnicity ►28% Hispanic or Latino ►25% White ►20% Black or African American ►17% Asian Average Life Expectancy VS 76 years old in Port Costa 81 years old inContra Costa County Median Age VS 50 years old in Port Costa 40 years old inContra Costa County 0 Scale (Miles) .25 Source: Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. (Community-submitted photo.)(Community-submitted photo.) Page 170Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 PORT COSTA - CONTEXT - 2 0 Scale (Miles) .25 WILDFIRE Source: CAL FIRE, 2018; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. HAZARDS Coastal flooding Landslides Drought Sea level rise Extreme heat Seismic hazards Flooding Severe storms Human health hazards Wildfire MAJOR VULNERABILITIES Low-income households, households in poverty, and cost-burdened households are vulnerable to unhealthy living conditions or destruc-tion of homes from coastal flooding, flooding, landslides, seismic hazards, severe storms, and wildfire. Persons with chronic illnesses and low-income households may have less financial stability to pay for medical costs or increased housing costs due to drought, extreme heat, flooding, human health hazards, and wildfire smoke. The entire built environment is vulnerable to coastal flooding, flood-ing, landslides, sea level rise, and wildfire, especially the residents and businesses along Canyon Lake Drive and Prospect Avenue. Carquinez Strait Regional Shoreline Park and outdoor recreation that support the economy are vulnerable to coastal flooding, extreme heat, flooding, landslides, severe storms, and wildfire. The Union Pacific Railway, Port Costa Schoolhouse, and the US Post Office are vulnerable to coastal flooding, flooding, and sea level rise. The information on this page presents a summary of hazards and vulnerabilities in Port Costa based on the Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment; please see the online Vulnerability Assessment for a full description of these hazards and vulnerabilities. FLOOD ZONES 0 Scale (Miles) .25 Source: FEMA, 2019; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. A 100-year flood zone represents a 1% chance of flooding in any given year. A 500-year flood zone represents a 0.2% chance of flooding in any given year. Page 171Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 PORT COSTA - GUIDANCE - 3 GUIDING PRINCIPLES The following guiding principles articulate the values, priorities, and aspirations for the future shared by Port Costa community members: 1. Port Costa should be a resilient community that has planned for and is safe from sea-level rise, wildfire hazards, and the acute and long-term risks of nearby industrial uses. 2. The rich history and unique heritage of Port Costa and its residents should be celebrated and cultivated for future generations. 3. Port Costa should remain an affordable place to find a home. 4. Public facilities and amenities, including regional parkland, community parks and open spaces, and schools, should be preserved and enhanced. Open spaces should be inviting and clear of trash and debris. 5. Port Costa residents should enjoy convenient access to the shoreline. PLANNED LAND USE Land use designations for Port Costa are shown on Figure LU-1, General Plan Land Use Map, and are defined in the Land Use Element. Most of the community is planned for continued residential use at a density consistent with existing development. The mixed-use area at the eastern end of Canyon Lake Drive serves to recognize the area’s historic character of residential over street level businesses, as well as to encourage and attract additional development that will complement existing businesses and take advantage of visual access to the waterfront. Mixed uses in Port Costa.Port Costa waterfront. Page 172Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 PORT COSTA - GUIDANCE - 4 ACTIONS 1. Assist a community-led process to develop design guidelines that are tailored to the unique setting, historic fabric, lot patterns, design character, and mix of uses in the community. 2. Update the Historic Resources Inventory to add structures that may not have been considered historic at the time of the last inventory. 3. Improve waterfront access, including access to the shoreline and lateral access along the shoreline itself. Work with the State Lands Commission to provide new amenities along the shoreline, mitigate the limitations on access from the railroad tracks, and encourage water-oriented business and commercial activities that enhance Port Costa’s identity as a waterfront community. 4. Establish a scenic waterway designation along the shoreline that protects and preserves its scenic quality, and encourage access for fishing, boating, hiking, cycling, and other recreational activities. (3-142) POLICIES 1. Maintain Port Costa’s unique character while supporting economic vitality, emergency preparedness and safety, and improvement of the housing stock. 2. Support the establishment of a regional recreation area in the vicinity of Port Costa which is oriented towards pedestrian use and day use. (3-127) 3. Limit commercial development to small-scale specialty and neighborhood retail shops. Avoid automobile-oriented uses. (3-129) 4. Encourage the preservation, sensitive rehabilitation, and adaptive reuse of Port Costa’s older buildings, particularly those that have been identified as local historic places. Recognize Port Costa’s authentic character and inventory of historic buildings as assets and amenities to attract businesses, visitors, and local investment to the community. Page 173Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 (Community-submitted photo.) Rodeo has grown from an agrarian ranching settlement to an industrial hub at the intersection of a railroad line and shipping port to the close-knit community it is today. Located on San Pablo Bay north of Hercules, this community values its downtown, neighborly atmosphere, and access to open space and water-related recreational activities. Rodeo maintains close ties to its in dustrial and ranching roots with the Phillips 66 Refinery and agricultural land to the north and east. Community members are active in the Rodeo Citizens Association and other local organizations, devoting their time and resources to address local health, safety, and environmental concerns. Parker Avenue is the heart of Rodeo, physically and commercially. Many residents would like to see existing businesses augmented to revitalize downtown and the marina. The community’s water- front location has long been constrained by the railroad tracks that hug the shoreline, but increased infrastructure and view preservation efforts along the waterfront have increased accessibility. This has also created opportunities to expand aquatic recreation and other waterfront commercial uses. Congestion on Interstate 80, coupled with the lack of BART or ferry stations, create circulation constraints at peak commute times. The Phillips 66 Refinery occupies over 1,000 acres in the northern part of Rodeo. In August 2020, Phillips 66 announced a plan to convert the Rodeo Refinery into a renewable fuels plant. Many residents remain concerned about potential refinery impacts, such as air quality and safety. RODEO- CONTEXT - 1 WHO LIVES IN RODEO? Median Age VS 37 years old in Rodeo 40 years old inContra Costa County Median Household Income VS $78,890 in Rodeo $103,997inContra Costa County Race & Ethnicity ►45% White ►23% Hispanic or Latino ►12% Asian ►8% Black or African American Average Life Expectancy VS 81 years old in Rodeo 81 years old inContra Costa County 0 .5 Scale (Miles) Source: Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. Page 174Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 RODEO- CONTEXT - 2 HAZARDS Air Quality Human Health Hazards Coastal Flooding Landslides Drought Seismic Hazards Extreme Heat Severe Storms Flooding Wildfires MAJOR VULNERABILITIES Cost-burdened and low-income households are vulnerable to coastal flooding, drought, extreme heat, flooding, human health hazards, severe storms, and wildfire. Persons with chronic illnesses are vulnerable to air quality, extreme heat, and human health hazards. Railways, including the Capitol Corridor Amtrak line, are vulnerable to coastal flooding, flooding, landslides, and seismic hazards. Wastewater treatment plants and services are vulnerable to coastal flooding, flooding, landslides, seismic hazards, and severe storms. Government and commercial buildings are vulnerable to coastal flooding, flooding, landslides, seismic hazards, severe storms, and wildfires. The Phillips 66 oil Refinery is vulnerable to coastal flooding, flooding, landslides, and wildfires. Public safety response, public transit access, and solid waste removal are vulnerable to coastal flooding, flooding, landslides, severe storms, and wildfires. The information on this page presents a summary of hazards and vulnerabilities in the Rodeo community based on the Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment; please see the online Vulnerability Assessment for a full description of these haz- ards and vulnerabilities. For information on tsunami hazards, see Figure HS-6, Tsunami Hazard Areas, in the Health and Safety Element. SEA-LEVEL RISE WILDFIRE Source: CalFire, 2018; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. 0 .5 Scale (Miles) Source: San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission, 2017; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks 2022. 0 .5 Scale (Miles)Page 175Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 RODEO- CONTEXT - 3 IMPACTED COMMUNITY The County has identified Rodeo as an Impacted Community under Senate Bill (SB) 1000, which requires the County to integrate environmental justice into the General Plan. This law is based on the understanding that some communities have experienced a combination of historic discrimination, negligence, and political and economic disempowerment. Often, this has resulted in a disproportionate burden of pollution and health impacts and disproportionate social and economic disadvantages in these communities. The 21 indicators that contribute to Rodeo’s identification as an Impacted Community are highlighted in the chart to the right, with additional details provided in the maps that follow, based on State data from CalEnviroScreen. The chart shows how Rodeo ranks for each indicator compared to the rest of the state. The County identifies Impacted Communities as those where the combined ranking for all factors is 72 percent or higher. While there are multiple Census tracts that make up Rodeo, this chart presents only the most-impacted Census tract in Rodeo. Past activities at the refinery have impacted community and environmental health. Multiple hazardous waste facilities and incidents have resulted in clean-up sites, impaired water bodies, and air pollution. In the past decade, industrial activities in and around Rodeo businesses have emitted numerous hazardous gases, ignited fires, contaminated soil, and spilled crude oil into San Pablo Bay. In addition to pollution in San Pablo Bay, Rodeo Creek is impacted by urban runoff and storm sewers, impairing aquatic life, fishing, and other beneficial uses. Meanwhile, rates of emergency room visits from heart attacks and asthma are higher in Rodeo than most other communities in California. Despite these health issues, the closest hospitals are at least 15 minutes away in Vallejo or Martinez. Residents are concerned about access to medical care in emergencies, especially considering industrial hazards and sensitive health conditions. IMPACTED COMMUNITY INDICATORS (2021) Ranking of Most Impacted Census Tract in Rodeo Relative to the State Air Quality: Ozone Concentration Air Quality: Fine Particle (PM2.5) Concentration Diesel Particulate Matter Emissions Concentration of Toxic Releases Traffic Density Pesticide Use Concentration of Drinking Water Contaminants Children's Lead Risk from Housing Concentration of Clean Up Sites Susceptibility to Groundwater Threats Density of Hazardous Waste Facilities Proximity to Impaired Water Bodies Proximity to Solid Waste Sites Asthma-Induced Emergency Room Visits Low Birth Weight Infants Heart Attack-Induced Emergency Room Visits Population Without a High School Degree Limited English Speaking Households Poverty Relative Unemployment Housing Burdened Low Income Households 0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70% 72% 80%90%100% 12% 34% 77% 83% 0% 4% 85% 84% 84% 97% 83% 36% 93% 86% 54% 28% 61% 53% 7474% 8080% 6767% Page 176Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 RODEO- CONTEXT - 4 0 Scale (Miles) .5 This map ranks Census tracts based on the concentration of toxic chemical releases from industrial facilities (e.g., the Phillips 66 Refinery). Parts of Rodeo are ranked at 80 percent, meaning that the area has a concentration of toxic releases that is worse than 80 percent of the state. This map ranks Census tracts based on the concentration of clean up sites, which are sites undergoing clean up actions by governmental authorities or property owners due to environmental degradation from hazardous substances. The ranking also considers the nature and magnitude of the threat and the site type and status. Parts of Rodeo are ranked at 84 percent, meaning that the area has a concentration of clean up sites that is higher than 84 percent of the state. TOXIC RELEASES CLEAN UP SITES Source: CalEnviroscreen, 2021; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022.Source: CalEnviroscreen, 2021; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. Toxic Release Facilities Clean Up Sites Page 177Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 RODEO- CONTEXT - 5 This map ranks Census tracts based on the density of hazardous waste facilities and generators (e.g., the Phillips 66 Refinery), considering each facility’s type and permit status and generator activities. Parts of Rodeo are ranked at 97 percent, meaning that the area has a density of hazardous waste facilities and generators that is higher than 97 percent of the state. HAZARDOUS WASTE Source: CalEnviroscreen, 2021; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. 0 .5 Scale (Miles)Page 178Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 PLANNED LAND USE Land use designations for Rodeo are shown on Figure LU-1, General Plan Land Use Map, and are defined in the Land Use Element. The majority of Rodeo is planned for a mixture of residential and commercial land uses. North of the community, the existing Phillips 66 Refinery continues to be designated for industry. It is adjacent to agricultural and resource conservation areas that serve as a buffer and protect local open space. Rodeo includes a Mixed-Use designation along Parker Avenue and Pacific Avenue. The vision here is to support residential units over street-level businesses. Rodeo also includes a Mixed-Use designation in its downtown and along the waterfront. This is intended to facilitate the creation of a town center, encouraging the revitalization of downtown Rodeo by concentrating commercial and office uses and developing townhomes and multiple-family residential buildings. The Rodeo Waterfront/Downtown Specific Plan (1997) and Rodeo Redevelopment Area Planned Unit Development Zoning Code and Design Guidelines (2005) provide more detailed guidance for this area. GUIDING PRINCIPLES The following guiding principles articulate the values, priorities, and aspirations for the future shared by Rodeo community members: 1. Rodeo residents know their neighbors and care about their community. Connectedness among community members should be preserved and enhanced. 2. Rodeo should have a bustling downtown core energized through infill development, beautification, historic preservation, community facilities, walking and biking amenities, affordable and connected housing, and regular events that bring people together. 3. Rodeo should remain a full-service community with amenities like a fire station and grocery store. Services should expand so that residents do not need to travel outside the community for daily or weekly needs. 4. Rodeo residents should have the amenities necessary to make healthy lifestyle choices, including community gardens, farmers markets, parks, and medical facilities. 5. Rodeo’s waterfront should serve as a focal point for the community, with easy access to the shoreline, waterfront parks and open space, and a mixture of multiple-family residential, retail, and commercial recreational land uses. 6. Creeks and waterways should serve as multi-use linear parks through Rodeo. 7. Rodeo residents should be kept safe and healthy by mitigating risks from heavy industrial accidents, exposure to air pollutants, and other health hazards. 8. Rodeo should be protected from sea-level rise with adequate monitoring and mitigation. 9. Rodeo residents should be able to safely walk around all parts of the community. 10. People living or working in Rodeo should be able to get around the community easily without needing to drive. 11. All Rodeo residents should have access to safe, secure, and affordable housing. RODEO- GUIDANCE - 6 Mixed-use development in Rodeo. Multi-family housing in Rodeo.Single-family housing in Rodeo. Open space and industrial uses in Rodeo. Page 179Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 POLICIES 1. Encourage infill development that is flexible, varied in type and appearance, includes residential, commercial, and civic uses, and reflects Rodeo’s character. 2. Direct all new development towards infill opportunities (i.e., vacant or underutilized parcels rather than open space beyond the developed area). (3-147) 3. Require that new development adhere to the Rodeo Waterfront/ Downtown Specific Plan goals, policies, and design standards and guidelines, which support a vision for a visually cohesive, economically viable, and people-oriented downtown and waterfront area. (3-155, 3-156) 4. Partner with civic organizations to market downtown Rodeo and the waterfront to new businesses that are consistent with the vision of the Rodeo Waterfront/Downtown Specific Plan. 5. Support and enable consolidation of parcels along Parker Avenue to facilitate flexible mixed-use development. 6. Require major new development to provide recreational amenities for community enhancement along with adequate parking for residents, employees, visitors, and patrons. (3-155) 7. Promote the development of water-oriented commercial, recreation, mixed-use, and transportation uses at the waterfront. 8. Maximize public access to the Bay, including a waterfront trail. (3-152) 9. Use distinct signage and streetscape design on both sides of Interstate 80 to create a better sense of cohesiveness throughout the community. 10. Design new public spaces to celebrate the community’s historic and cultural diversity. 11. Work with civic organizations to support and enhance food truck events while minimizing competition with local businesses. 12. Support beautification and walkability by enforcing codes related to illegal dumping, streets, sidewalks, properties, and building facades. 13. Prioritize the safety and health of residents living adjacent to heavy industrial uses. 14. Support agreements between the community and heavy industrial business operators. 15. Attract and support clean, green industry. 16. Continue to avoid and mitigate the effects of industrial traffic on downtown streets. (3-146) 17. Work with the Rodeo-Hercules Fire District to ensure that response time standards for industrial accidents and other emergencies can be met throughout the community. 18. Coordinate with the City of Hercules on decisions that affect Rodeo residents. 19. Partner with local organizations to expand opportunities to engage community members in the planning process. 20. Support the East Bay Regional Park District’s efforts to complete the San Francisco Bay Trail along the waterfront. (3-162) RODEO- GUIDANCE - 7 Page 180Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 ACTIONS 1. Complete the Implementation Tasks identified in Chapter 5 of the Rodeo Waterfront/ Downtown Specific Plan, including the development of a linear park along the Rodeo Creek Trail and a waterfront promenade. (2-151, 3-155, 3-156, 3-161) 2. Study potential redevelopment options for the marina area, such as a new public or private marina or other water recreation facility. Based on the results of the study, actively market the site to potential developers and work with partners to pursue grant funding for a public facility. 3. Actively seek a new community market or grocery store, ideally one that reflects the community’s ethnic and cultural diversity. 4. Partner with community groups to create a plan to develop civic facilities, such as a community center, youth center, new senior center, sports center, town plaza, dog park, and/or parks and open spaces. As part of this plan, identify funding sources and strategies. 5. Support community-led efforts to develop a pool at the site of the old Rodeo Swim Club pool. 6. Support implementation of a Safe Routes to School Program and provide adequate pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure. 7. Eliminate sidewalk gaps on San Pablo Avenue, Willow Avenue, Pacific Avenue, and Vaqueros Avenue, especially near bus stops. 8. Improve safety and comfort on the Rodeo Creek Trail by installing pedestrian-scale lighting and fencing, and improving maintenance, especially in the area just north of Seventh Street. Improvements should be coordinated with organized creek clean- ups. RODEO- GUIDANCE - 8 Page 181Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 SARANAP AND PARKMEAD - CONTEXT - 1 Saranap and Parkmead are residential areas located west of Interstate 680 and south of Highway 24 between Walnut Creek and Lafayette. Saranap traces its origins to 1911, when it became a stop on the Oakland, Antioch, and Eastern Railroad line between Oakland and Sacramento. The railroad ran along what is now Olympic Boulevard, with the station located at the current intersection with Tice Valley Boulevard. Saranap is named for Sara Naphthaly, mother of railroad vice president Samuel Naphthaly. Parkmead is located east of Saranap. Despite their proximity to downtown Walnut Creek, these two communities have retained unique identities valued by their residents. Saranap became popular as a summer getaway in the early 1900s, with cottages located among fruit and walnut orchards. Much of the area was developed during the 1950s, though development continued throughout the 60s, 70s, and 80s. Apartments and commercial businesses were developed along Boulevard Way and on Saranap Avenue near the Interstate 680/Highway 24 interchange. Today, about one-quarter of the housing units in Saranap are apartments and condominiums. Parkmead, which is located in unincorporated Contra Costa County and the City of Walnut Creek, was primarily developed during the 1950s, with community life focused around Tice Creek School and Parkmead Elementary School. The community consists almost entirely of single-family residences. While most of Saranap and Parkmead are built out, the existing commercial and light industrial area along Boulevard Way has potential for redevelopment, as does the south side of Olympic Boulevard. WHO LIVES IN SARANAP AND PARKMEAD? Median Household Income VS $134,315 in Saranap/Parkmead $103,997inContra Costa County Race & Ethnicity ►71% White ►13% Asian ►9% Hispanic or Latino ►3% Black or African American Average Life Expectancy VS 82 years old in Saranap/Parkmead 81 years old inContra Costa County Median Age VS 48 years old in Saranap/Parkmead 40 years old inContra Costa County Source: Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. 0 Scale (Miles) .25 Page 182Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 SARANAP AND PARKMEAD - CONTEXT - 2 HAZARDS Drought Extreme heat Flooding Human health hazards Landslides Seismic hazards Severe storms Wildfire MAJOR VULNERABILITIES Seniors (including seniors living alone), persons experiencing homelessness, and children are vulnerable to extreme heat, human health hazards, and wildfire. Renters and cost-burdened households are vulnerable to increased housing costs from drought, extreme heat, flooding, landslides, seismic hazards, severe storms, and wildfire. Interstate 680, Highway 24, and Olympic Boulevard are vulnerable to flooding, landslides, severe storms, and wildfire. Parkmead Elementary School and Tice Creek Elementary school are vulnerable to flooding, severe storms, and wildfire. Safety and medical responses and public transit access is vulnerable to flooding, seismic hazards, severe storms, and wildfire. 0 Scale (Miles) .5 WILDFIRE Source: CalFire, 2018; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. FLOOD ZONES 0 Scale (Miles) .5 Source: FEMA, 2019; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. A 100-year flood zone represents a 1% chance of flooding in any given year. A 500-year flood zone represents a 0.2% chance of flooding in any given year. The information on this page presents a summary of hazards and vulnerabilities in Saranap and Parkmead based on the Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment; please see the online Vulnerability Assessment for a full description of these hazards and vulnerabilities. Page 183Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 SARANAP AND PARKMEAD - GUIDANCE - 3 GUIDING PRINCIPLES The following guiding principles articulate the values, priorities, and aspirations for the future shared by Saranap and Parkmead community members: 1. The harmonious mix of single-family and multiple-family dwellings, offices, and commercial uses in Saranap and Parkmead should be preserved. 2. Further development of Saranap and Parkmead should be thoughtfully planned to enhance the communities. 3. The commercial area along Boulevard Way should be revitalized through development of mixed-use projects offering neighborhood-serving businesses and a wider variety of housing choices. 4. The communities should be enhanced with new pedestrian and bicycle facilities that connect residential and commercial areas, and development of a neighborhood park and community meeting space. PLANNED LAND USE Land use designations for Saranap and Parkmead are shown on Figure LU-1, General Plan Land Use Map, and are defined in the Land Use Element. Saranap and Parkmead are planned primarily to maintain and enhance the existing residential uses while accommodating new development to revitalize existing commercial areas. Aside from enhanced neighborhood amenities, no changes are planned for the existing lower density residential areas. New development will occur in mixed-use areas along major roads, incorporating a range of neighborhood-serving commercial uses and multiple-family dwellings. Mixed-use projects that incorporate affordable housing are highly encouraged. The mixed-use area along Boulevard Way will create a more unified and vibrant urban center offering medium to high density housing choices. The Saranap Village project, which includes 196 housing units, along with retail businesses and services, will anchor the west end of the mixed-use area along Boulevard Way. The mixed-use area along Olympic Boulevard is envisioned as a revitalized, well-designed corridor, with new residential and commercial development and improved services. Single-family home in Saranap.Multi-family housing in Saranap. Commercial and office use in Saranap.Commercial use in Saranap. Page 184Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 SARANAP AND PARKMEAD - GUIDANCE - 4 ACTIONS 1. Evaluate and improve pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure where feasible, particularly along the full length of Boulevard Way. 2. Identify a location for a neighborhood park or other community facility/space within Saranap that may include a playground, lawn area, dog run/park, picnic area, exercise equipment, and community garden. Require future development projects to contribute their fair share towards its establishment. 3. Reconfigure and enhance the Boulevard Way right-of-way, from its intersection with Saranap Avenue east to the City of Walnut Creek border, as follows: a. Reduce width to two lanes b. Install diagonal parking and Class II or Class III bicycle facilities along both sides c. Install traffic-calming devices and crosswalks where appropriate d. Install parklets e. Widen sidewalks f. Install street trees, landscaping, decorative streetlights, street furniture, water features, public artwork, and other appropriate amenities. POLICIES 1. In mixed-use areas, preserve adequate square footage of commercial uses to meet the daily needs of the community. Support retention of active commercial uses and local-serving businesses while promoting new residential development. 2. Maintain public views of Mount Diablo and surrounding scenic ridges to the greatest extent feasible. 3. Protect the undeveloped hillside and ridge south of Olympic Boulevard and west of Tice Valley Boulevard. 4. Encourage mixed-use projects consisting of neighborhood-serving commercial uses and multiple-family dwellings, particularly those including affordable housing. 5. Preserve views and access to sunlight along Boulevard Way and Saranap Avenue by incorporating standardized “step back” requirements for the upper floors (third story and above) of multi-story buildings and encouraging small landscape buffers and setbacks. 6. Maintain the single-family residential development pattern outside of the mixed-use areas along Boulevard Way and Olympic Boulevard. 7. Discourage roof heights exceeding 40 feet, or architectural features (such as parapets) exceeding 45 feet. 8. Require building scale, massing, architectural style, materials, and signage to be harmonious with the surroundings and contribute to a visually pleasing streetscape, particularly along Boulevard Way and Saranap Avenue. 9. Encourage construction of street and sidewalk amenities of a consistent character that foster a cohesive “district” appearance along Boulevard Way. Page 185Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Vine Hill and Mountain View are small unincorporated communities located on the northern border of Martinez. The communities primarily consist of single-family homes with a few commercial uses. Interstate 680 runs through Vine Hill and Highway 4 runs just south of the two communities, providing regional access to other parts of the Bay Area. These two communities are situated adjacent to the Martinez Refinery Company and other industrial uses. The Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad runs east-west through Vine Hill, transporting cargo to and from Bay Area ports. Many residents travel to Martinez or beyond for education, work, services, and other amenities. Residents appreciate the relatively affordable cost of housing in their communities, as well as its access to nature and the Contra Costa Canal Trail. Residents are also proud of their independent, self-sufficient nature, and recognize that the communities are distinct from Martinez and Concord. Community members have noted that the friendly, neighborly feeling cultivated in these communities would be enhanced with improved public safety and beautification, and that sidewalks, trail connections, and public transit could be expanded. Residents also cite parking as a prevalent issue in their neighborhoods and would like to increase parking availability near their homes. VINE HILL AND MOUNTAIN VIEW - CONTEXT - 1 0 Scale (Miles) 1 WHO LIVES IN VINE HILL AND MOUNTAIN VIEW? Median Age VS 38 years old in Vine Hill and Mountain View 40 years old inContra Costa County Median Household Income VS $105,946 in Vine Hill and Mountain View $103,997inContra Costa County Race & Ethnicity ►60% White ►23% Hispanic or Latino ►9% Asian ►2% Black or African American Average Life Expectancy VS 79 years old in Vine Hill and Mountain View 81 years old inContra Costa County Source: Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. Page 186Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 VINE HILL AND MOUNTAIN VIEW - CONTEXT - 2 HAZARDS Air quality Landslides Coastal flooding Sea level rise Drought Seismic hazards Extreme heat Severe weather Flooding Wildfire Human health hazards MAJOR VULNERABILITIES Cost-burdened households and low-income households are vulnerable to coastal flooding, drought, flooding, landslides, seismic hazards, severe weather, and wildfire. Persons experiencing homelessness, persons with chronic illnesses, and children are vulnerable to poor air quality, extreme heat, human health hazards, and wildfire. Interstate 680, Highway 4, and their bridges are vulnerable to damage from coastal flooding, flooding, landslides, sea level rise, seismic hazards, and severe storms. The Martinez Refinery, wastewater treatment plant, and Waterbird Regional Preserve are vulnerable to inundation from sea level rise, coastal flooding, and flooding. Wetlands and aquatic habitats are vulnerable to damage from coastal storms, drought, sea level rise, and severe weather. City of Pleasant Hill City ofMartinez GraysonCreekPa c h e c o C ree k PineSt Arthur Rd Imhoff Midhill Rd Blum Rd Br own S t Centra l A ve Rol l i n gHill W a y Shell Ave Waterbird W ay Sweetw aterDr HarborView Dr Vist a Way L a g un a St ParkwayD r GlacierDr Imhoff D r Hill Rd Starflo w e rDr Marsh Dr Palm Ave Temple Dr Main Rd Muir Rd Arnold Dr Waterfront R d Pac h e c o Blvd Alhambra Ave Vin e Hill Way Alhambr aWay Pl e a s a n t Hil l R d C e n t e r A v e Solano Way Marina V ista Av e Howe Rd Morello Ave680 4 Mountain View Vine Hill MartinezRefineryCity of MartinezWastewaterTreatment Plant Sea Level Rise Map 0 10.5 Miles Sea Level Rise 2050 with 100-Year Storm Severity Water Depth (feet) 0 - 2 2 - 4 4 - 6 6 - 8 8 - 10 10 - 12 12+ Unincorporated Areas Incorporated Cities Urban Limit LIne Outside Urban Limit Line Creeks and Drainages Vine Hill and MountainView Source: San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission, 2017; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2019. City of Pleasant Hill City of Martinez GraysonCreekPa c h e c o C reek PineSt Arthur Rd Imhoff Midhill Rd Blum Rd Br ownS t Centr a l A ve R ol l i n gHill W a y Shell Ave Waterbird W ay Sweetw aterDr HarborView D r Vist a Way L a g un a S t ParkwayDr GlacierDr Imhof fD r Hill Rd Starflo w e rDr Marsh Dr Palm Ave Templ eDr Main Rd Muir Rd Arnold Dr Waterfront R d Pac h e c o Blvd Vin e Hill Way Alhambr aWay P le a s a n t H i l l R d C e n t e r A v e Solano Way M arinaV ista A v e Howe Rd Morello Ave Alhambra Ave680 4 MartinezRefineryCity of MartinezWastewaterTreatment Plant Mountain View Vine Hill Flood Hazard Map 0 10.5 Miles Vine Hill and MountainView Source: FEMA, 2019; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2019. A 100-year flood zone represents a 1% chance of flooding in any given year. A 500-year flood zone represents a 0.2% chance of flooding in any given year. Flood Hazard Areas 100-Year Flood Zone 500-Year Flood Zone Areas of Undetermined butPossible Flood Hazard Water Unincorporated Areas Incorporated Cities Urban Limit Line Outside Urban Limit Line Railroads Creeks and Drainages SEA LEVEL RISE Source: San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission, 2017; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. City of Pleasant Hill City ofMartinez GraysonC reekPa c h e c o C ree k Pin eSt Arthur Rd Imhoff Midhill Rd Blum Rd Br own S t Cen tr a l A ve Roll i n g Hill W a y Shell Ave W aterbird W ay Sweetw aterDr HarborView Dr Vist a Way L a g u na S t ParkwayD r GlacierDr Imhoff D r Hill Rd Starflo w e rDr Marsh Dr Palm Ave Temple Dr Main Rd Muir Rd Arnold Dr Waterfront Rd Pac h e c o Blv d Alhambra Ave Vin e Hill Way Alhambr aWa y P l e a s a n t Hil l R d Cent e r A ve Solano Way Marina Vista Ave Howe Rd Morello Ave680 4 Mountain View Vine Hill MartinezRefineryCity of MartinezWastewaterTreatment Plant Sea Level Rise Map 0 10.5 Miles Sea Level Rise 2050 with 100-Year Storm Severity Water Depth (feet) 0 - 2 2 - 4 4 - 6 6 - 8 8 - 10 10 - 12 12+ Unincorporated Areas Incorporated Cities Urban Limit LIne Outside Urban Limit Line Creeks and Drainages Vine Hill and MountainView Source: San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission, 2017; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2019. 0 Scale (Miles) .5 The information on this page presents a summary of hazards and vulnerabilities in Vine Hill and Mountain View based on the Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment; please see the online Vulnerability Assessment for a full description of these hazards and vulnerabilities. FLOOD ZONES Source: FEMA, 2019; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. City of Pleasant Hill City of Martinez GraysonCreekPa c h e c o C reek PineSt Arthur Rd Imhoff Midhill Rd Blum Rd Br ownS t Centr al A ve R ol l i n gHill W a y Shell Ave W aterbird W ay Sweetw aterDr HarborView D r Vist a Way L a g un a St ParkwayDr GlacierDr Imhoff D r Hill Rd Starflow e rDr Marsh Dr Palm Ave Templ eDr Main Rd Muir Rd Arnold Dr Waterfront R d Pac h e c o Blvd Vin e Hill Way Alhambr aWay Pl e a s a n t H i l l R d C e n t e r Av e Solano Way M arinaV ista A v e Howe Rd Morello Ave Alhambra Ave680 4 MartinezRefineryCity of MartinezWastewaterTreatment Plant Mountain View Vine Hill Flood Hazard Map 0 10.5 Miles Vine Hill and MountainView Source: FEMA, 2019; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2019. A 100-year flood zone represents a 1% chance of flooding in any given year. A 500-year flood zone represents a 0.2% chance of flooding in any given year. Flood Hazard Areas 100-Year Flood Zone 500-Year Flood Zone Areas of Undetermined butPossible Flood Hazard Water Unincorporated Areas Incorporated Cities Urban Limit Line Outside Urban Limit Line Railroads Creeks and Drainages 0 Scale (Miles) .5 A 100-year flood zone represents a 1% chance of flooding in any given year. A 500-year flood zone represents a 0.2% chance of flooding in any given year. Page 187Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 VINE HILL AND MOUNTAIN VIEW - CONTEXT - 3 IMPACTED COMMUNITY The County has identified Vine Hill and Mountain View as Impacted Communities under Senate Bill (SB) 1000, which requires the County to integrate environmental justice into the General Plan. This law is based on the understanding that some communities have experienced a combination of historic discrimination, negligence, and political and economic disempowerment. Often, this has resulted in a disproportionate burden of pollution and health impacts and disproportionate social and economic disadvantages in these communities. The 21 indicators that contribute to Vine Hill and Mountain View’s identification as Impacted Communities are highlighted in the chart to the right, with additional details provided in the maps that follow, based on State data from CalEnviroScreen. The chart shows how Vine Hill and Mountain View rank for each indicator compared to the rest of the state. The County identifies Impacted Communities as those where the combined ranking for all factors is 72 percent or higher. While there are multiple Census tracts that make up Vine Hill and Mountain View, this chart presents only the most-impacted Census tract among these communities. Given the communities’ close proximity to refineries and other heavy industrial and manufacturing operations, residents may be at higher risk of exposure to harmful substances in the air, water, and land. Hazardous waste disposal facilities and domestic landfills, officially termed the Vine Hill Complex, are also located just east of the residential community. These sites have undergone clean up but are subject to ongoing maintenance to prevent releases of hazardous substances. There have been violations of air quality standards in recent years, including a release of nearly 20 tons of gases during a power outage in 2016. High levels of air pollution can induce asthma, especially in vulnerable populations such as children and seniors. State data indicates that Vine Hill and Mountain View residents visit the emergency room for asthma conditions at a rate that is 67 percent higher than other communities in California. IMPACTED COMMUNITY INDICATORS (2021) Ranking of Most Impacted Census Tract in Vine Hill and Mountain View Relative to the State Air Quality: Ozone Concentration Air Quality: Fine Particle (PM2.5) Concentration Diesel Particulate Matter Emissions Concentration of Toxic Releases Traffic Density Pesticide Use Concentration of Drinking Water Contaminants Children's Lead Risk from Housing Concentration of Clean Up Sites Susceptibility to Groundwater Threats Density of Hazardous Waste Facilities Proximity to Impaired Water Bodies Proximity to Solid Waste Sites Asthma-Induced Emergency Room Visits Low Birth Weight Infants Heart Attack-Induced Emergency Room Visits Population Without a High School Degree Limited English Speaking Households Poverty Relative Unemployment Housing Burdened Low Income Households 0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70% 72% 80%90%100% 15% 33% 86% 53% 12% 80% 73% 74% 96% 0% 97% 67% 55% 39% 34% 21% 49% 90% 81% 61% 52% Page 188Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 VINE HILL AND MOUNTAIN VIEW - CONTEXT - 4 This map ranks Census tracts based on the concentration of toxic chemical releases from industrial facilities. Parts of Vine Hill and Mountain View are ranked at 90 percent, meaning that the area has a concentration of toxic releases that is worse than 90 percent of the state. TOXIC RELEASES 0 Scale (Miles) 10 Scale (Miles) 1 Source: CalEnviroscreen, 2021; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022.Source: CalEnviroscreen, 2021; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. This map ranks Census tracts based on the density of hazardous waste facilities and generators (e.g., the Martinez Refinery Company), considering each facility’s type and permit status and generator activities. Parts of Vine Hill and Mountain View are ranked at 96 percent, meaning that the area has a density of hazardous waste facilities and generators that is higher than 96 percent of the state. HAZARDOUS WASTE Page 189Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 VINE HILL AND MOUNTAIN VIEW - CONTEXT - 5 This map ranks Census tracts based on the proximity to solid waste sites and facilities, considering each facility’s type, proximity to nearby communities, reported odor complaints, and more. Parts of Vine Hill and Mountain View are ranked at 97 percent, meaning that the area is exposed to more solid waste hazards than 97 percent of the state. SOLID WASTE 0 Scale (Miles) 1 Source: CalEnviroscreen, 2021; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. Source: CalEnviroscreen, 2021; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. 0 0.5 Miles ENVISION CONTRA COSTA 2040 •Solid Waste Facilities D Landfill Boundaries � • • Incorporated Cityc:J Urban Limit Line / / Outside Urban Limit Line -+-Railroads --Creeks and Drainages Census Tract Ranking >Oto 50% Solid Waste Sites and Facilities Map Vine Hill and Mountain View Source: CalEnviroscreen, 2021; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. 0 0.5 Miles ENVISION CONTRA COSTA 2040 •Solid Waste Facilities D Landfill Boundaries � • • Incorporated Cityc:J Urban Limit Line / / Outside Urban Limit Line -+-Railroads --Creeks and Drainages Census Tract Ranking >Oto 50% Solid Waste Sites and Facilities Map Vine Hill and Mountain View Source: CalEnviroscreen, 2021; Contra Costa County, 2018; PlaceWorks, 2022. 0 0.5 Miles ENVISION CONTRA COSTA 2040 •Solid Waste Facilities D Landfill Boundaries � • • Incorporated Cityc:J Urban Limit Line / / Outside Urban Limit Line -+-Railroads --Creeks and Drainages Census Tract Ranking >Oto 50% Solid Waste Sites and Facilities Map Vine Hill and Mountain View Page 190Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Single-family home in Vine Hill. Commercial use in Vine Hill. Multi-family residential in Vine Hill. Office/industrial use in Vine Hill. VINE HILL AND MOUNTAIN VIEW - GUIDANCE - 6 GUIDING PRINCIPLES The following guiding principles articulate the values, priorities, and aspirations for the future shared by Mountain View and Vine Hill community members: 1. Mountain View and Vine Hill’s rich history and heritage should be celebrated. 2. The independent culture that separates Mountain View and Vine Hill from surrounding cities should be preserved and the friendly, neighborly atmosphere should be maintained. 3. Mountain View and Vine Hill residents identify the surrounding wetlands, open spaces, and connections to nature as some of the most valuable assets of this area. Preservation, natural resource restoration efforts, and support for local wildlife should be expanded. 4. Roadways should be safe for all users, including pedestrians, bicyclists, and drivers. Sidewalks and bike lanes should be added. 5. The affordability and variety of the existing housing stock should be maintained and enhanced. 6. Residents should be protected from adverse health impacts associated with traffic congestion along Highway 4 and Interstate 680. 7. Mountain View and Vine Hill residents should live in a healthy environment safe from short- and long-term air quality and health hazards associated with industrial facilities in and near the community. PLANNED LAND USE Land use designations for Vine Hill and Mountain View are shown on Figure LU-1, General Plan Land Use Map, and are defined in the Land Use Element. Most of the community is planned for continued residential, industrial, and open space uses. No major developments or changes are planned, except in the mixed-use corridor along Pacheco Boulevard. This area is planned for development that would provide a wide array of uses for residents while stimulating reinvestment in the community at large. Community-serving businesses that are walkable and conveniently accessed by alternative transportation modes are highly desired. Page 191Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 VINE HILL AND MOUNTAIN VIEW - GUIDANCE - 7 ACTIONS 1. Install traffic calming to reduce speeding and increase safety for cyclists on Pacheco Boulevard. 2. Undertake drainage improvements to reduce local flooding problems. To the extent feasible, incorporate “green streets” principles in the design of such projects. 3. Install sidewalks and improve pedestrian connections and infrastructure. 4. Study the feasibility of creating secondary roadway access to and from Vine Hill. 5. Provide more frequent curbside waste services, including recycling and organics collection. POLICIES 1. Prioritize the preservation and restoration of wetlands, wildlife habitat, open spaces, and connections to nature. 2. Prioritize roadway improvements to reduce traffic congestion on Pacheco Boulevard. Incorporate pedestrian, bicycle, and stormwater infrastructure improvements when feasible to improve safety and facilitate mobility throughout the communities. 3. Improve public transit options and accessibility and promote alternative transportation modes. 4. Proactively enforce County codes to support community beautification and safety. Encourage improved community appearance through graffiti removal, litter reduction, street and sidewalk maintenance, abatement of illegal dumping, and code enforcement. 5. Encourage economic investment along major thoroughfares, including commercial and mixed-use development. 6. Incorporate safe, well-maintained open spaces and gathering places in new commercial and mixed-use development projects. In addition, multiple-family residential development should contribute toward the development of parks and recreational facilities that serve the community at large. Page 192Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element 4 -1 4 LAND USE ELEMENT Land use patterns in Contra Costa County play an important role in defining the county’s character and that of its individual communities. Approximately 46 percent of the unincorporated land is set aside for conservation, recreation, and watershed protection purposes. Another 38 percent is devoted to rural and agricultural uses, such as grazing land, row crops, orchards, and vineyards. The remaining area includes public and institutional facilities, like schools, hospitals, fire stations, and airports; neighborhoods of condominiums, apartments, townhomes, mobile homes, and single-family residences; commercial development ranging from urban shopping centers to riverside restaurants; and industrial uses, such as refineries, small- and mid-size manufacturers, and distribution centers. Many of these land uses are expected to evolve over the coming decades as new housing types, business models, and energy sources emerge. As this occurs, the policy guidance in this Element will also evolve to build on community assets, address opportunities and challenges, and improve quality of life for everyone through thoughtful land use planning. The Land Use Element is divided into the following four sections: • The Land Use Designations and Map section establishes regulations and standards for development in each land use designation shown on the General Plan Land Use Map. • The Orderly, Well-Planned Growth section includes policy guidance to balance development and conservation. • The Specific Land Uses section includes policy guidance tailored to residential, commercial, mixed-use, industrial, rural, agricultural, and open space uses. • The Land Use Element Performance Measures describe how the County will track its progress in achieving some of the major objectives expressed in this Element. This General Plan highlights policies and actions that address four major themes that serve as a framework for the Plan. For the reader’s ease, policies and actions related to these themes are identified throughout the General Plan using the following icons. The policies and actions related to each theme are also compiled in Appendix A. See Chapter 1 for more information about each theme. Community Health Environmental Justice Economic Development Sustainability LAND USE DESIGNATIONS AND MAP State planning law requires the Land Use Element to designate the general distribution, location, and extent of the various land uses covered by this General Plan. Table LU-1 lists the 22 land use designations the County uses in its land use planning. Each designation is generally described and the Page 193Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4 -2 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element standards for allowed residential density and intensity of nonresidential use are stated. The land use designation descriptions are not intended to be exhaustive. Communities and uses evolve and it is not possible to anticipate every use that could be proposed over the life of this General Plan. The key factor in determining whether a particular land use is appropriate or allowable in a particular designation is whether the use supports or conflicts with the designation’s overarching intent. Table LU-1 also defines the relationship between the land use designations in this General Plan and the zoning districts enumerated in the County Zoning Ordinance (County Ordinance Code Title 8). Each land use designation categorizes various zoning districts as “consistent” or “potentially consistent.” Those categorized as “consistent” are presumed to be compatible with the land use designation because the permittable uses and development standards (lot sizes, height limitations, setbacks, parking ratios, landscaping requirements, etc.) align with the designation’s intent and purpose. Zoning districts categorized as “potentially consistent” may be compatible with the General Plan designation depending on location, the nature of projects being proposed, and other considerations. Properties may only be zoned or rezoned to districts that are consistent or potentially consistent with the underlying land use designation. • Residential densities are expressed in terms of dwelling units per net acre, which is the area remaining after land is dedicated for rights-of- way, easements, and other public or common uses. As a rule of thumb, the County assumes net acreage to be 75 percent of the gross for single-family residential projects and 80 percent of the gross for multiple-family residential and mixed-use projects. A project’s actual density is calculated during the development review process and must fall within the density range for the applicable land use designation unless State laws, policies within this General Plan, or zoning regulations allow for higher or lower densities. This illustration shows different densities for residential development on similarly sized lots. This graphic is intended only to show the relative differences between residential developments at various densities and does not represent a density standard for this General Plan • Development intensities for nonresidential uses are expressed in terms of floor area ratio (FAR), which is the ratio of gross building floor square footage to gross land area, expressed as a decimal number. When a building’s square footage is equal to the area of the parcel it occupies, the FAR is 1.0. FARs are lower in suburban areas, where buildings are shorter and often surrounded with parking and landscaping, than in urban areas, where buildings are taller and occupy more of their respective parcels. Nonresidential development cannot exceed the FAR for the applicable land use designation. Page 194Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element 4 -3 This illustration shows how various building configurations represent different FARs on similarly sized lots. This graphic is intended only to show the relative differences in FAR and does not represent an intensity standard for this General Plan. The General Plan Land Use Map is presented in Figure LU-1. This map shows the distribution of the land use designations listed in Table LU-1. In most cases the designations reflect uses already in existence. However, in some places the designations are aspirational or intended to be catalysts for change. A prime example is the application of mixed-use designations to aging, single-use commercial areas. In these instances, the designation is intended to promote more efficient use of the land and encourage reinvestment by increasing residential density and expanding options for development. The land use map is not meant to be static; amendments are expected in response to evolving community priorities and needs, shifting economic trends, technological advances, and other societal changes affecting land use. ORDERLY, WELL-PLANNED GROWTH Balanced Development and Conservation Contra Costa County was an early implementer of smart growth and compact development principles, embodied in the 65/35 Land Preservation Standard (65/35 Standard) and Urban Limit Line (ULL). These land use controls, which are integral to long-range planning in the county, were established by voter approval of Measure C-1990 and their necessity was reaffirmed through voter approval of Measure L-2006. Contra Costa residents continue to recognize the importance of balancing development to meet the community’s housing, jobs, and service needs with protection of the county’s natural environment and resources. 65/35 Land Preservation Standard One of two fundamental components of Measures C-1990 and L-2006 is the 65/35 Standard, which limits the footprint of urban development by restricting urban land use designations to no more than 35 percent of the land in the county and requiring at least 65 percent of the land to be designated for non-urban uses. Table LU-2 indicates which County land use designations are urban and non-urban. The 65/35 Standard does not regulate land use intensity. All urban land use designations count equally against the 35 percent limit regardless of how, or even if, the land to which they are applied is developed. Likewise, all non-urban designations count equally toward the 65 percent requirement regardless of development. The 65/35 Standard operates on a countywide basis, accounting for urban and non-urban designations within the 19 cities as well as the unincorporated county. As of 2023, approximately 28 percent of the land countywide has been designated for urban uses. Page 195Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4 -4 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element TABLE LU-1 LAND USE DESIGNATIONS RESIDENTIAL VERY-LOW DENSITY │ RVL Appropriate for transitions between urban development and agricultural/rural areas. Also appropriate for constrained sites where reduced densities are justified. Typically includes detached single-family units on lots 1 acre or larger and small-scale agricultural activities. Consistent Zoning: R-100, R-65, R-40 Potentially Consistent Zoning: All A- districts, P-1 Density ≤1 FAR N/A RESIDENTIAL LOW DENSITY │ RL Appropriate for low-density, predominantly single-family residential development. Typically includes detached single-family units on lots approximately 15,000 square feet to 1 acre in size and limited nonresidential uses that serve and support nearby homes. Small-scale agricultural activities may be compatible on larger lots. Consistent Zoning: R-40, R-20, R-15, R-12 Potentially Consistent Zoning: P-1 Density 1-3 FAR N/A RESIDENTIAL LOW-MEDIUM DENSITY │ RLM Appropriate for moderate-density, predominantly single-family residential development. Typically includes detached single-family units on lots approximately 6,000 to 15,000 square feet and limited nonresidential uses that serve and support nearby homes. Duplexes and triplexes may also be compatible. Consistent Zoning: R-12, R-10, R-7, R-6 Potentially Consistent Zoning: P-1 Density 3-7 FAR N/A RESIDENTIAL MEDIUM DENSITY │ RM Appropriate for higher-density single-family and low-density multiple-family residential development. Typically includes single-family units on lots approximately 2,500 to 6,000 square feet, duplexes, triplexes, townhouses, condominiums, apartments, and mobile home parks. Also includes limited nonresidential uses that serve and support nearby homes. Consistent Zoning: R-6, D-1, M-6, M-9, M-17 Potentially Consistent Zoning: P-1 Density 7-17 FAR N/A RESIDENTIAL MEDIUM-HIGH DENSITY │ RMH Appropriate for the highest-density single-family and medium-density multiple-family residential development. Typically includes single-family units on lots smaller than 2,500 square feet, tiny homes, fourplexes, townhouses, condominiums, apartments, and assisted living facilities. Also includes limited nonresidential uses that serve and support nearby homes. Consistent Zoning: M-17, M-29 Potentially Consistent Zoning: P-1 Density 17-30 FAR N/A RESIDENTIAL HIGH DENSITY │ RH Appropriate for higher-density, multiple-family development. Typically includes condominiums, apartments, and assisted living facilities. Also includes limited nonresidential uses that serve and support nearby homes. Consistent Zoning: None Potentially Consistent Zoning: P-1 Density 30-60 FAR N/A RESIDENTIAL VERY-HIGH DENSITY │ RVH Appropriate near transit stations, employment centers, and other locations where providing exceptionally high density is a priority. Typically includes condominiums, apartments, and micro-units. Also includes limited nonresidential uses that serve and support nearby homes. Consistent Zoning: None Potentially Consistent Zoning: P-1 Density 60-125 FAR N/A Page 196Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element 4 -5 RESIDENTIAL MAXIMUM DENSITY │ RX Reserved for unique projects providing the highest densities in the unincorporated county. Typically includes condominiums, apartments, and micro-units. Density is determined on a project-by-project basis. Also includes limited nonresidential uses that serve and support nearby homes. Consistent Zoning: None Potentially Consistent Zoning: P-1 Density 126≤ FAR N/A COMMERCIAL and OFFICE │ CO Allows for a full range of commercial and office uses. Typical uses include retail (neighborhood, community, and regional scale), personal and business services, lodging and hospitality services, entertainment venues, event spaces, shared co-workspaces, commercial kitchens, workforce training centers, and all kinds of medical, business, and professional offices. Consistent Zoning: C, C-B, N-B, R-B, A-O, O-1 Potentially Consistent Zoning: P-1 Density N/A FAR 1.0 Commercial 2.5 Office LIGHT INDUSTRY │ LI Allows for a range of low- to moderate-intensity industrial uses that when properly designed and operated may be established in proximity to residences and other sensitive receptors without sacrificing human health and safety or resulting in significant environmental impacts. Typically uses include light manufacturing, fabrication/assembly, processing, machinery repair, warehousing and storage, distribution, research and development, laboratories, incubators, workforce training centers, and ancillary or supportive retail and office uses. Consistent Zoning: L-I, C-M Potentially Consistent Zoning: A-O, P-1 Density N/A FAR 1.5 HEAVY INDUSTRY │ HI Allows for the most intense industrial land uses. Heavy industrial uses typically require significant acreage and direct access to deep water channels, rail lines, or freeways. Operations are often characterized by transport, storage, and use of large quantities of hazardous or noxious materials; significant emissions of pollutants, odors, noise, vibration, and light; and inherent risks to human health and safety and the environment. Typical uses include heavy manufacturing and processing (e.g., petroleum refining, chemical manufacturing, steel production), tank farms, marine terminals, rail yards, and fossil fuel-fired power plants. Light industrial uses are also allowed within this designation. Consistent Zoning: H-I, L-I, C-M, W-3 Potentially Consistent Zoning: A-O, P-1 Density N/A FAR 0.67 Heavy Industry 1.5 Light Industry MIXED-USE LOW DENSITY │ MUL Allows for various housing types, including tiny homes, townhouses, condominiums, apartments, studios, live-work units, and micro-units, along with a wide range of neighborhood-serving retail, personal service, office, entertainment, and public uses. This designation is applied where a modest level of mixed-use development is appropriate, such as pedestrian-scale corridors, neighborhood nodes, and individual or small groups of parcels generally encompassing less than 1 acre. Consistent Zoning: N-B, C-B, R-B, A-O, O-1, M-6, M-9, M-17, M-29 Potentially Consistent Zoning: P-1 Density 10-30 FAR 1.0 MIXED-USE MEDIUM DENSITY │ MUM Allows for various housing types, including townhouses, condominiums, apartments, studios, live-work units, and micro-units, along with a wide range of retail, personal service, office, hospitality, entertainment, and public uses sized to serve nearby neighborhoods or the surrounding community. This designation is applied where moderate- to large-scale mixed-use development is appropriate, such as existing commercial or mixed-use cores of established communities, transitioning commercial areas (e.g., obsolete shopping centers), and individual or groups of parcels encompassing several acres. Consistent Zoning: N-B, C-B, R-B, A-O, O-1 Potentially Consistent Zoning: P-1 Density 30-75 FAR 2.0 Page 197Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4 -6 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element MIXED-USE HIGH DENSITY │ MUH Allows for high-density residential complexes of all types, office towers, large hotels, convention spaces, and accompanying retail, personal service, entertainment, and public uses. This designation is applied where intense, urban-scale mixed-use development is appropriate, such as transit villages and employment centers. Consistent Zoning: N-B, C-B, R-B, A-O, O-1 Potentially Consistent Zoning: P-1 Density 75-125 FAR 4.0 MIXED-USE COMMUNITY-SPECIFIC DENSITY │ MUC Allows for various housing types, including tiny homes, townhouses, condominiums, apartments, studios, live-work units, and micro-units, along with a wide range of neighborhood- and community-serving retail, personal service, office, hospitality, entertainment, and public uses. Densities and FARs are specific to the communities where this designation is applied, as follows: Alamo 22-40 du/net acre, 1.75 FAR Montalvin Manor 17-35 du/net acre, 1.75 FAR Vine Hill 22-35 du/net acre, 1.75 FAR Bay Point 22-40 du/net acre, 1.75 FAR North Richmond 17-35 du/net acre, 2.0 FAR Crockett 17-27 du/net acre, 2.0 FAR Pacheco 22-40 du/net acre, 1.75 FAR Discovery Bay 17-35 du/net acre, 1.5 FAR Rodeo 17-35 du/net acre, 2.0 FAR El Sobrante 17-35 du/net acre, 1.75 FAR Saranap 22-40 du/net acre, 1.75 FAR Additional policy guidance related to the MUC designation may appear in the Community Profiles for these communities. Consistent Zoning: N-B, C-B, R-B, A-O, O-1, M-17, M-29 Potentially Consistent Zoning: P-1 Density Variable FAR Variable PUBLIC and SEMI-PUBLIC │ PS Appropriate for uses and facilities owned or operated by public entities or private entities serving the public. These include law enforcement and fire stations, schools, libraries, hospitals, water and sewage treatment plants, landfills, cemeteries, airports, and military installations. Also includes high-volume public and private transportation corridors (e.g., freeways, BART, railroads) and utility corridors. Consistent Zoning: All districts Potentially Consistent Zoning: None Density N/A FAR N/A AGRICULTURAL CORE │ AC Applied to approximately 11,900 acres between Brentwood, Discovery Bay, and Byron composed primarily of soils rated Class 1 or 2 per the National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Land Capability Classification. Much of the area under this designation is prime agricultural land that is actively farmed with intensive row crops, orchards, and vineyards. Agricultural production is the primary use in areas with this designation and takes precedent over other uses. Limited agricultural tourism activities that support the agricultural economy are consistent with this designation. “Ranchette” or estate-style residential development, and any other use that interferes with agricultural activities, is inconsistent with this designation. Consistent Zoning: A-4, A-40, A-80 Potentially Consistent Zoning: P-1 Density 1 unit/40 acres FAR N/A AGRICULTURAL LANDS │ AL Applied to agricultural areas composed primarily of soils rated Class 3 or lower per the National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Land Capability Classification. Most areas with this designation are non-irrigated, rural lands that may support grazing and dryland farming, though it also includes non-prime, productive agricultural lands. Other types of agricultural, open space, and non-urban uses are consistent with this designation when conducted in accordance with the County’s policies pertaining to agricultural areas. These include limited opportunities for recreation, lodging (farm stays, bed and breakfasts, etc.), food services (farm-to-table dining, farm stands, etc.), special events, and similar activities that support the county’s agricultural economy. Some land with this designation is within the Delta Primary Zone (DPZ) and may be used for recreation and other nonagricultural activities that are consistent with the Delta Protection Commission’s Land Use and Resource Management Plan for the Delta and the Delta Stewardship Council’s Delta Plan. Consistent Zoning: All A- districts Potentially Consistent Zoning: P-1 Density 1 unit/10 acres 1 unit/20 acres within DPZ FAR N/A Page 198Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element 4 -7 PARKS and RECREATION │ PR Applied to publicly- and privately-owned parks and similar outdoor spaces. Includes neighborhood and community parks as well as federal, State, and regional parks and historic sites that are managed primarily for conservation purposes and provide active or passive recreational activities. Ancillary amenities such as visitor centers, event spaces, amusements/rides, and eateries that support or enhance the primary recreational use are consistent with this designation. Consistent Zoning: All R-, M-, and A- districts Potentially Consistent Zoning: P-1 Density 0.0 FAR N/A COMMERCIAL RECREATION │ CR Appropriate for privately-owned recreational uses where the primary activity is conducted outdoors, such as golf courses, recreational vehicle campgrounds, hunting clubs, and marinas. Ancillary commercial and service uses, as well as an on-site residential unit for a caretaker, harbor master, etc., are consistent with this designation. Consistent Zoning: A-2, A-3 Potentially Consistent Zoning: C, R-B, P-1 Density 0.0 FAR N/A RESOURCE CONSERVATION │ RC Applied to the watersheds of reservoirs owned by public utilities, mitigation banks, ecologically significant or environmentally sensitive areas that are not within publicly-owned parkland, and hazardous or otherwise constrained areas that are unsuitable for development. Resource management, low-intensity agriculture, low-intensity recreation, and similar activities are consistent with this designation when conducted in a way that is not damaging to the resources being protected. Construction of one single-family residence on an existing legal lot under private ownership is consistent with this designation. All types of urban development and subdivisions that increase density are prohibited. Consistent Zoning: All A- districts Potentially Consistent Zoning: P-1 Density 0.0 FAR 0.0 WATER │ WA Applied to approximately 41.5 square miles of water including the portions of San Francisco Bay, San Pablo Bay, and the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta that are within the county, large inland reservoirs, and other water bodies large enough to warrant designation. Typical uses include ferry terminals, shipping facilities associated with adjacent industry (marine terminals, wharves, etc.), docks, water-oriented recreation uses, and aquaculture. Consistent Zoning: None Potentially Consistent Zoning: All districts Density 0.0 FAR N/A Notes on Mixed-Use Designations 1. Single-use residential and single-use nonresidential projects are allowed in areas with mixed-use designations; however, policies elsewhere in this General Plan may encourage or require mixed-use projects at specific locations. 2. The densities stated in each mixed-use designation apply only when a project includes a residential component; they do not compel residential development in otherwise nonresidential projects. 3. Mixed-use projects may be horizontal, meaning residential and nonresidential uses exist on the same site, or vertical, meaning residential and non-residential uses exist in the same building. Page 199Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4 -8 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element This page intentionally left blank. Page 200Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element 4 -9 FIGURE LU-1 GENERAL PLAN LAND USE MAP 018 019 020 021 Page 201Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #018 Posted by Jeffrey Peckham - Walden Home Improvement District president on 01/22/2024 at 2:49pm [Comment ID: 27] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 I concur with the comments made by Dana Santos. North Cherry Lane is a narrow winding country rd between Santos Lane and Briarwood. A transition designation of RM buffers the low density area to the east from the current 48 unit density on the west. Making this area high density would ruin the beauty of this small area. Also, egress to and from future development should definitely be out to Santos Ln, as is the case with the Avalon apartments to the north of the area. #019 Posted by Gregory Santos on 01/12/2024 at 6:11am [Comment ID: 24] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 Site 84 of the Contra-Costa-County-Housing-Element_BOS-Draft_Nov.-2023_Clean (A-136,137) AP 148350020, 148350009, 148350010, 148350011, should also include adjacent AP 148350012, 148350013, 148350016, 148350017. Utility & traffic access to Santos Lane is already secured through APN 148350020. Traffic flow is restricted to the areas already designated RVH. Given the State housing mandates, this area should be zoned RVH, consistent & complimentary with its adjacent zoning along Santos Lane & the Transit Corridor. The RLM & RC zones are protected by the traffic restrictions noted above. The proposed RH zoning is counterproductive to both the State mandate & the urgent need for housing within easy walking distance of the transit corridor. #020 Posted by Rod Santos on 01/23/2024 at 9:12am [Comment ID: 28] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 The proposed upgrade in zoning from RL to RH on Cherry Lane (between Santos Ln and Las Juntas) is bad planning. The "newest" SFR home on that 4 parcel stretch was built in 1975, and our neighbors to the east have been accustomed to a peaceful way of life for many decades. A more productive and acceptable transition would be to feather in RM density, "stepping down" from the RH of Hanover apartments near the BART station, to the upper range of 14-17 du/na of RM similar to the Avalon Walnut Ridge development on Santos Lane. Please reconsider this zoning in an effort to maintain the aesthetics of the neighborhood, and a way of life for your constituents in the area. #021 Posted by Gregory Santos on 01/18/2024 at 3:58pm [Comment ID: 25] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 I retract my previous comment. I thought the higher density was only an upper limit. I realize now the lower limit is not flexible. The proposed RH zoning is a minimum 30 units. While the egress is through Santos Lane, this density would build up directly against Cherry Lane, facing RLM zoning. The transition, jumping from 3 to 7 units to a minimum of 30 is bad planning. RM or RMH is reasonable. Page 202Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4 -10 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element This page intentionally left blank. Page 203Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element 4 -11 TABLE LU-2 URBAN AND NON-URBAN LAND USE DESIGNATIONS Urban Land Use Designations Non-Urban Land Use Designations Residential Very-Low Density Residential Low Density Residential Low-Medium Density Residential Medium Density Residential Medium-High Density Residential High Density Residential Very-High Density Residential Maximum Density Commercial and Office Light Industry Heavy Industry Mixed-Use Low Density Mixed-Use Medium Density Mixed-Use High Density Mixed-Use Community-Specific Density Public and Semi-Public Agricultural Core Agricultural Lands Parks and Recreation Commercial Recreation Resource Conservation Water Urban Limit Line The ULL, shown in Figure LU-2, is the second fundamental component of Measures C-1990 and L-2006. It prevents sprawl by establishing a boundary beyond which no urban land uses can be designated. The ULL and 65/35 Standard together ensure that urban development occurs within established communities where infrastructure and services already exist or are planned. In addition to Measures C-1990 and L-2006, the voter-approved Measure J-2004 Growth Management Program administered by the Contra Costa Transportation Authority requires the County and each city in the county to adopt a voter-approved ULL or equivalent. Sixteen of the 19 cities adopted the County’s 2006 voter-approved ULL as their own. Antioch, Pittsburg, and San Ramon adopted their own voter-approved ULLs (known as the Urban Growth Boundary [UGB] in San Ramon). The County and cities are solely responsible for administering their respective ULLs/UGBs, which together contain approximately 47 percent of the total land area within Contra Costa County. Because the 65/35 Standard limits urban land use designations to no more than 35 percent of the county’s total land area, the County and cities must work cooperatively to maintain over 60,000 acres within the ULLs/UGBs under non-urban land use designations. The Urban Limit Line prevents sprawl and preserves valuable agricultural land. The County considered several criteria and factors when establishing the initial ULL location in 1990. Factors which contributed to properties being located outside the ULL included: • Land which qualifies for rating as Class I and Class II in the National Resource Conservation System (NRCS) Land Capability Classification. • Major open space, park, and recreation areas. • Lands with slopes of 26 percent or greater. • Wetlands. Page 204Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4 -12 Public Review Draft Envision Contra Costa 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element FIGURE LU-2 URBAN LIMIT LINE Page 205Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element 4 -13 • Other areas not appropriate for urban growth because of physical unsuitability for development, unstable geological conditions, inadequate water availability, lack of appropriate infrastructure, distance from existing development, likelihood of substantial environmental damage or substantial injury to fish or wildlife or their habitat, and other similar factors. No single criterion was necessarily determinative of whether a property was located inside or outside of the ULL. Where properties had characteristics that would locate them either inside or outside the ULL, the County weighed the competing characteristics and determined the most appropriate approach for the property. This resulted in the ULL cutting across properties in some instances. Properties that are located outside the ULL may not obtain General Plan amendments that would redesignate them for urban land use. In addition, properties outside the ULL may be subject to various agricultural and open space preservation measures identified elsewhere in this General Plan. These measures could include: • Encouraging dedication of open space and conservation easements. • Implementing a transfer of development rights (TDR) program. • Requiring payment of an agricultural mitigation fee for conversion of agricultural land. • Promoting non-urban "preservation" agreements between the County and cities to prevent annexation by cities of certain appropriate properties. • Encouraging clustering of development. • Establishing an ”agricultural soils trust fund” to fund possible purchase of easements or title to agricultural or open space lands. In general, the purpose of these measures is to preserve agricultural lands and open space and contribute to the continued economic viability of agricultural property. Changes to the Urban Limit Line The following text is from Measure L-2006, which requires specific language to be included in the Land Use Element and is why the 2016 ULL review conducted by the Board of Supervisors is discussed in future tense: There shall be no change to the ULL that would violate the 65/35 Land Preservation Standard. There will be no change to the ULL except in the manner specified herein. There will be no change to the ULL unless the Board of Supervisors first holds a public hearing at which it approves the change or changes, by a four-fifths vote, after making one or more of the following findings based on substantial evidence in the record: (a) A natural or man-made disaster or public emergency has occurred which warrants the provision of housing and/or other community needs within land located outside the ULL. (b) An objective study has determined that the ULL is preventing the County from providing its fair share of affordable housing or regional housing as required by State law, and the Board of Supervisors finds that a change to the ULL is necessary and the only feasible means to enable the County to meet these requirements of State law. Page 206Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4 -14 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element (c) A majority of the cities that are party to a preservation agreement and the County have approved a change to the ULL affecting all or any portion of the land covered by the preservation agreement. (d) A minor change to the ULL will more accurately reflect topographical characteristics or legal boundaries. (e) An objective study has determined that a change to the ULL is necessary or desirable to further the economic viability of the East Contra Costa County Airport, and either mitigate adverse aviation- related environmental or community impacts attributable to Buchanan Field, or further the County’s aviation-related needs. (f) A change is required to conform to applicable California or federal law; or (g) A five-year cyclical review of the ULL has determined, based on the criteria and factors for establishing the ULL set forth above, that new information is available (from city or County growth management studies or otherwise) or circumstances have changed, warranting a change to the ULL. Any General Plan amendment that would expand the ULL by more than 30 acres shall require voter approval of the proposed General Plan amendment, following the public hearing and the four-fifths vote of the Board of Supervisors approving the General Plan amendment and making one or more of the findings set forth in subsections (a) through (g) above. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a proposed General Plan amendment to expand the ULL by more than 30 acres does not require voter approval if, after a public hearing, the Board of Supervisors by a four-fifths vote approves the General Plan amendment and makes either of the following findings based on substantial evidence in the record: (i) the expansion of the ULL is necessary to avoid an unconstitutional taking of private property; or (ii) the expansion of the ULL is necessary to comply with State or federal law. Expansions of the ULL totaling 30 acres or less do not require voter approval. The Board of Supervisors may conduct a cyclical review of the ULL every five years. The Board of Supervisors will review the boundary of the ULL in the year 2016. The purpose of the year 2016 review is to determine whether a change to the boundary of the County’s Urban Limit Line Map is warranted, based on facts and circumstances resulting from the County’s participation with the cities in a comprehensive review of the availability of land in Contra Costa County sufficient to satisfy housing and jobs needs for 20 years thereafter. This review of the ULL is in addition to any other reviews of the ULL the Board of Supervisors may conduct. Any change to the ULL proposed as a result of any review authorized by this section must be adopted pursuant to the procedures set forth in this section. These provisions are effective until December 31, 2026. Goal LU-1 Policies LU-P1.1 The General Plan Update Environmental Impact Report (EIR) assumes the following maximum development projections for the year 2045: Goal LU-1 Coordinated and effective planning over the life of this General Plan. Page 207Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element 4 -15 (a) 23,200 new dwelling units. (b) 1.2 million square feet of new commercial and office space. (c) 5 million square feet of new industrial space. If new development approved within the unincorporated county reaches the maximum number of residential units and commercial/office and industrial square feet projected in the General Plan EIR, require that environmental review conducted for any subsequent development project address growth impacts that would occur from development exceeding the General Plan EIR’s projections.* Actions LU-A1.1 Track growth to ensure it does not exceed the development projections analyzed in the General Plan EIR and described in Policy LU-P1.1 without subsequent environmental review.* LU-A1.2 Periodically update County Ordinance Code Titles 7 – Building Regulations, 8 – Zoning, 9 – Subdivisions, and 10 – Public Works and Flood Control to maintain consistency with State law and newly adopted or revised planning documents (General Plan, Specific Plans, etc.); address emerging issues; and respond to economic, technological, and social trends. LU-A1.3 Biennially review and update the General Plan Land Use Map to ensure major land use changes, such public land acquisitions, are accurately reflected. Goal LU-2 Policies LU-P2.1 Continue implementing the 65/35 Land Preservation Standard, using the County ULL to focus future development in the county’s established urban and suburban communities while preserving agricultural land, rangeland, natural habitats, watersheds, and open space.* LU-P2.2 Enhance the ULL’s effectiveness by supporting efforts to acquire and permanently protect land along the ULL boundary.* LU-P2.3 Limit development outside the ULL to non-urban uses, such as agriculture, mineral extraction, wind and solar energy production, natural carbon sequestration, other resource- based uses, and essential infrastructure.* Goal LU-2 Growth and conservation that are balanced to preserve and enhance the quality of life, protect the environment and public safety, and benefit all those who live or work in Contra Costa County. Page 208Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4 -16 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element LU-P2.4 Prohibit major subdivisions outside the ULL as well as successive minor subdivisions of lots outside the ULL that were created through previous subdivisions.* LU-P2.5 Encourage infill development. LU-P2.6 Encourage clustering of allowable densities to reduce development footprints; protect scenic resources, natural features, and open spaces; and avoid hazardous areas (e.g., floodplains). LU-P2.7 In areas with a Residential land use designation, relate single- family residential density to the availability of utility services as follows: (a) Require a 5-acre minimum lot size where no public water or sanitary sewer service is available. (b) Require a 1-acre minimum lot size where either public water or sanitary sewer service is available, but not both. Where public water and sanitary sewer services are available, allowable density will be based on the General Plan Land Use Map designation, as well as drainage, health, safety, and other applicable standards. LU-P2.8 Discourage extension of water and sanitary sewer lines into areas outside the ULL, except to serve public and semi- public uses that are not growth inducing, or when such extension is necessary to address a declared public health emergency. When lines are extended outside the ULL, they should be designed to service the intended use only, and not allow for additional future service connections. LU-P2.9 Consistently advise the Contra Costa County Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) to support the 65/35 Land Preservation Standard and County ULL when considering requests for annexation to water and wastewater districts and extension of services. Actions LU-A2.1 Amend the County Ordinance Code to require the following prior to approval of a tentative map for subdivision in areas designated Agricultural Lands or Agricultural Core: (a) Evidence of adequate groundwater supply to support intended uses, considering the cumulative, long-term demand. (b) Demonstration that each parcel is suitable for an on-site wastewater treatment system. (c) Satisfactory road and street access, particularly for emergency vehicles. (d) Adequate regional drainage capacity, including downstream natural watercourses. Page 209Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element 4 -17 (e) Detailed site plans for each lot indicating building locations, driveways, well and leach field locations, energy-efficient and -conserving features, location of hazards such as landslides and floodplains, necessary flood and stormwater management improvements, and fencing. (f) Other information that may be required to confirm the safe use of each lot for its intended purpose. See the Land Use, Infrastructure, and Transportation Coordination section of this Element and the Public Facilities and Services Element for additional policies and actions on urban services and infrastructure. See the Open Space, Conservation, and Working Lands Element for additional policies and actions on agricultural areas, resource-based uses, and open space management. Sustainable Growth and Quality Design The County’s 65/35 Standard and ULL provide a framework for sustainable growth countywide by containing sprawl and preserving natural spaces. Inside the ULL, certain development patterns and design approaches promote sustainability at the community level. Infill development, for example, occurs within existing communities and utilizes existing infrastructure networks to accommodate new residents and businesses, thereby eliminating environmental and fiscal impacts associated with extending roads, utilities, and services into undeveloped areas. Infill projects make use of vacant or underutilized spaces and contemporary designs tend to be human-scaled than projects of the past, with priority given to the needs and comfort of people instead of the movement of vehicles. Locating jobs and housing near transit and other services is another sustainable growth strategy. There is a jobs-housing imbalance in the county, with considerably more employed residents than jobs. Countywide, as of 2020, there are only 0.9 jobs for every home, leading to substantial out- Vacant lots, like the one above in Saranap, are opportunities for infill development such as the proposed Saranap Village project, below. Page 210Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4 -18 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element commuting as Contra Costa residents drive to other parts of the Bay Area and beyond for work. Ideally, there would be 1.4 jobs for every home in the county since there are about 1.4 employed residents per home. Balancing the number of jobs and housing units across the county and individual communities, and locating these types of uses near transit and other services, can reduce commute times and daily travel distances (i.e., vehicle miles traveled, or VMT), which in turn reduces air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions and improves quality of life. When developing these uses near each other, superior design becomes even more critical to ensure that the uses are complementary. Quality, thoughtful design also supports achievement of sustainability goals. For example, careful consideration of solar orientation and shading when designing site plans, buildings, and landscaping can maximize exposure for solar panels and gardens while reducing energy use for heating and cooling. Low Impact Development, a stormwater management strategy, uses green roofs, bioswales, rain gardens, and similar features to mimic natural processes for removing pollutants from runoff before it reaches creeks, rivers, and bays. Designs that incorporate the principles of a circular economy aim to reduce consumption and benefit the environment by accounting for the full life cycle of buildings and materials, including manufacture, construction, maintenance, reuse, and disposal, and striving to eliminate waste and pollution. The County supports these and other environmentally-conscious design approaches. Goal LU-3 Policies LU-P3.1 Support regional efforts to achieve a jobs-housing balance within the county and within subregions of the county by maintaining an adequate supply of developable land designated for job-generating uses. For any General Plan amendment proposing to convert commercial, industrial, or office land uses to residential or non-urban land uses, evaluate the project’s effect on the local and countywide jobs-housing balance. LU-P3.2 Encourage residential development in or near existing employment centers, and development of job-generating uses near areas that are primarily residential. Where large- scale residential or commercial development is planned, encourage a mix of housing and employment opportunities unless doing so would exacerbate a severe jobs-housing imbalance in the area. LU-P3.3 Encourage extremely high-density, mixed-use development that combines employment, housing, and services near major transit facilities. Such development should be planned and designed to encourage walking, micromobility, and transit use; shorter commutes; and reduced dependency on single-occupant vehicles. LU-P3.4 Encourage conversion of existing commercial areas to mixed-use nodes and corridors. Goal LU-3 A range and distribution of compatible and sustainable land uses that meet the county’s social and economic needs and allow for balanced housing and job growth. Page 211Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element 4 -19 LU-P3.5 Encourage development of housing that meets the needs of the local workforce and living-wage jobs that maximize the education, skills, and talents of county residents. LU-P3.6 Encourage incorporation of childcare, adult daycare, and similar beneficial uses into new development. To maximize accessibility, encourage childcare facilities in residential neighborhoods, employment centers, schools, public libraries, hospitals, religious facilities, and parks, as well as near transit stops. LU-P3.7 Welcome development that supports the countywide goal of reducing VMT, thus reducing greenhouse gas emissions, to meet climate change targets. Require projects that do not support the County’s VMT-reduction goals to incorporate necessary changes (e.g., design, land use mix) to ensure they support those goals. See the Stronger Communities Element for additional policies and actions about economic development and the Transportation Element for additional policies and actions about VMT. Actions LU-A3.1 Evaluate financial strategies and tools, such as Enhanced Infrastructure Financing Districts, to attract housing to employment areas and create new employment centers near residential areas. LU-A3.2 Develop and maintain an inventory of County-owned surplus lands with residential development potential and post the inventory on the County’s website. Goal LU-4 Policies LU-P4.1 Embrace the principles of a circular economy as they relate to development and encourage all projects to utilize ecologically sustainable practices and materials. LU-P4.2 Continuously improve community appearance by requiring high-quality designs and materials that complement their surroundings, with emphasis on enhancing public spaces and historic and cultural resources.* LU-P4.3 Encourage smooth transitions between new and existing development. LU-P4.4 Require site and building reconfigurations, setback increases, landscaping enhancements, screening, or other design Goal LU-4 Sustainable and high-quality design. Page 212Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4 -20 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element solutions wherever necessary to minimize potential conflicts between uses. LU-P4.5 Require shadow and solar access studies for new multiple- family residential, mixed-use, commercial, and industrial projects greater than three stories in height or with obvious potential to significantly shade parks, commercial nurseries, residential yards, solar arrays, and other uses that are sensitive to loss of sunlight.* LU-P4.6 Require commercial and mixed-use projects to create inviting, pedestrian-oriented streetscapes wherever possible. LU-P4.7 Encourage residential and mixed-use buildings over four stories tall to incorporate setbacks or other massing changes on upper floors to create more human-scale and comfortable pedestrian environments. Actions LU-A4.1 Amend the County Ordinance Code to include requirements for Low Impact Development, use of low- carbon concrete, water and energy conservation, reclaimed water, renewable energy use, green building, and other measures that reduce the environmental impacts of development, based on the best available science. See the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element for additional policies and actions about sustainable design. Land Use, Infrastructure, and Transportation The breadth of uses and activities in the county must be supported by infrastructure such as utilities, roadways, railroads, pipelines, and drainage facilities. Most of the infrastructure and utility services in the county are provided by other agencies and private entities. The Contra Costa Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) regulates the jurisdictional boundaries and spheres of influence of all cities and all special districts who provide infrastructure and services, like water, wastewater, and fire districts. By coordinating changes to local governmental boundaries, LAFCO helps to ensure that current and projected service needs will be met while discouraging sprawl and preserving agricultural and open space lands. The County also has a responsibility to ensure that the pace and pattern of development can be supported by the infrastructure and transportation networks, promotes fiscal health, aligns with regional plans, and represents community values. Focusing on higher-density infill development maximizes the efficiency of transportation and other infrastructure and reduces up- front construction and long-term maintenance costs. Goal LU-5 Goal LU-5 Coordinated land use, transportation, and infrastructure decisions so that growth occurs in locations where capacity and services are available or committed. Page 213Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element 4 -21 Policies LU-P5.1 Allow development only where requisite community services, facilities, and infrastructure can be provided.* LU-P5.2 Consider the potential locations of planned public infrastructure projects (e.g., transit lines, roadways, drainage improvements) when evaluating development proposals and deny development applications that would interfere with implementation of such projects. Actions LU-A5.1 In 2025 and at least once every five years thereafter, evaluate the County’s off-street parking standards to ensure their continued applicability in light of changing conditions, trends, and technology. Each evaluation should assess the appropriateness of reducing or eliminating parking minimums, taking off-site impacts into account, and recommend strategies for reducing parking demand. LU-A5.2 Work with LAFCO and utility service providers to: (a) Annex lands planned for urban development by this General Plan into their service areas. (b) Detach private lands, especially agricultural or rural lands, from district boundaries if they are not planned for urban development and are not currently served. See the Public Facilities and Services Element for additional policies and actions about infrastructure and services, and the Transportation Element for additional policies and actions about transportation infrastructure. Intergovernmental Coordination The County’s jurisdiction on land use matters is limited to unincorporated areas and the County itself doesn’t provide many of the utilities and services upon which its residents and businesses depend. County staff and officials regularly work with cities, special districts, and other agencies to ensure that the County’s planning decisions support achievement of regional goals. Important regional partners in land use planning include the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG)/Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC); Delta Protection Commission, which has regulatory authority over land uses within the Primary Zone of the Delta (see Figure LU-3); and the US military, which must be consulted on projects near its facilities (see Figure LU-4) to ensure new development does not conflict with operations or pose safety risks. Goal LU-6 Goal LU-6 Effective coordination with other agencies to ensure orderly planning and consistent service delivery. Page 214Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4 -22 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element FIGURE LU-3 SACRAMENTO-SAN JOAQUIN DELTA Page 215Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element 4 -23 FIGURE LU-4 MILITARY OPERATIONS AREAS Page 216Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4 -24 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element Policies LU-P6.1 Ensure that County projects and decisions on private development and land use activities within the Legal Delta are consistent with: (a) The Land Use and Resource Management Plan for the Primary Zone of the Delta adopted by the Delta Protection Commission. (b) The Delta Plan adopted by the Delta Stewardship Council. LU-P6.2 Work collaboratively with cities and special districts (e.g., East Bay Regional Park District and utility service providers) to address regional issues of mutual concern and coordinate on decisions and actions that affect residents of nearby unincorporated areas. LU-P6.3 When a project is within the sphere of influence of a city within Contra Costa County, or adjacent to a city located in a neighboring county, refer the project to the city for review and comment. LU-P6.4 Coordinate with LAFCO to ensure that city annexations and related land use decisions do not: (a) Interfere with attainment of the County’s land use goals as expressed in this General Plan. Include Housing Element inventory sites unless provisions have been made to transfer the site’s assigned units to the receiving city’s Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA). (b) Create new unincorporated “islands” (i.e., isolated areas substantially surrounded by incorporated cities). LU-P6.5 Encourage cities to annex unincorporated “islands,” such as the Ayers Ranch and San Miguel neighborhoods. LU-P6.6 Coordinate with the Department of Defense to ensure new development near military installations does not interfere with military readiness or operations. Actions LU-A6.1 Review and comment on major projects proposed within cities to avoid conflicts with County land use goals and policies. See the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element for additional policies and actions about the Delta. Page 217Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element 4 -25 SPECIFIC LAND USES Although located in the San Francisco Bay Area, one of America’s most populated metropolitan areas, the vast majority of the land in the unincorporated the county is devoted to agriculture, parks, and other forms of open space, supported by the 65/35 Standard and ULL discussed previously. Communities in West and Central County include a full range of urban and suburban uses. In East County, the dominant land uses are agriculture and open space with a handful of distinct unincorporated communities that are primarily residential, supported by limited commercial, industrial, and public uses. As described in the Land Use Designations and Map section of this Element, the General Plan Land Use Map (Figure LU-1) designates each parcel of land in the unincorporated county for a type of land use. A parcel’s designation usually reflects an existing use that will continue. However, in some cases the designation is intended to encourage a land use change that is consistent with the vision for the community’s future. The policy guidance in this section supports development of those planned land uses in alignment with the overarching goals of this General Plan. Goal LU-7 Multiple-family homes, like these in Bay Point, fill an important housing need. Policies LU-P7.1 Plan for a variety of housing types. Encourage innovative, nontraditional designs and layouts in response to evolving housing trends and needs. LU-P7.2 Provide housing opportunities for all economic segments of the population, ensuring that affordable housing is distributed throughout the county and is not concentrated in traditionally lower-income areas. Promote development of affordable housing near public transit and essential services whenever possible. Goal LU-7 A variety of residential neighborhood types that provide housing opportunities and desirable living environments for all residents. Page 218Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4 -26 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element LU-P7.3 Protect residential neighborhoods from incompatible uses and activities that will adversely affect public health and safety. LU-P7.4 Require new residential development to be planned, designed, and constructed in a way that promotes health, minimizes hazard exposure for future residents, and mitigates potential adverse effects on natural resources and the environment. LU-P7.5 Require new residential projects to provide convenient access/connections to public transit, local destinations, and multiuse trails whenever possible.* LU-P7.6 Within the ULL, allow properties with existing legally established residential development that exceeds the maximum density ranges specified in Table LU-1 to retain those densities in the event the existing development must be reconstructed for any reason. Actions LU-A7.1 Maintain objective design standards for residential and mixed-use development to provide a streamlined approval process and ensure architectural compatibility for future infill development. See the Health and Safety Element for additional policies and actions related to residential development in areas vulnerable to hazards (e.g., wildfire, flooding); see the Stronger Communities Element for additional policies and actions related to safe housing; see the Community Profiles in the Stronger Communities Element for guiding principles, policies, and actions about future land uses in individual unincorporated communities; and see the Housing Element for additional policy guidance related to housing in general. Goal LU-8 Mixed-use development in Contra Costa Centre makes efficient use of the land by providing homes above commercial services. Goal LU-8 A variety of well-located commercial and mixed-use areas that provide jobs and services, create civic gathering places and community focal points, accommodate higher-density housing, and contribute to the tax base of the County. Page 219Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element 4 -27 Policies LU-P8.1 Plan for a sufficient quantity, variety, and distribution of commercial uses to meet the basic daily needs of residents in communities throughout the county. LU-P8.2 Support development of neighborhood-serving commercial services in and adjacent to residential areas where they can be accessed easily using multiple modes of transportation. LU-P8.3 Encourage adaptive reuse of aging commercial buildings and sites. LU-P8.4 Support rehabilitation of commercial centers, encouraging improvements that enhance appearance, sustainability, and non-motorized (pedestrian, bicycle, etc.) access and safety. LU-P8.5 Emphasize the importance of commercial centers as civic gathering places. Whenever feasible, require plans for commercial areas to include public spaces and amenities that create a strong sense of place. LU-P8.6 Discourage new strip commercial development, allowing it only when alternative layouts are infeasible at the project site. LU-P8.7 Encourage growth of the county’s hospitality sector, including heritage tourism, waterfront amenities, farm-to- table restaurants, other dining and entertainment establishments, commercial recreation, various types of accommodations, and visitor services. LU-P8.8 Accommodate a variety of land uses at Buchanan Field and Byron Airports, consistent with the master plan for each facility. A range of commercial aviation functions, including fixed-base operators, aviation businesses, and passenger facilities and services, should be allowed, as well as ancillary uses that support the economic viability of each airport. LU-P8.9 Plan land uses and activities in the vicinity of harbors to optimize their use for commerce and recreation while accounting for forecasted sea-level rise by 2100 under a medium-high risk aversion scenario, subsidence, and groundwater threats. Actions LU-A8.1 Monitor shifts in the office and retail markets to determine whether General Plan, zoning, and other regulatory changes that facilitate conversion of vacant or obsolete space to new uses are warranted. See the Stronger Communities Element for additional policies and actions related to economic development. Page 220Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4 -28 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element Goal LU-9 Industrial uses along the Northern Waterfront, like this facility that manufactures commuter trains, provide local jobs and boost the economy. Policies LU-P9.1 Welcome industries that create living-wage jobs and career advancement opportunities for county residents while minimizing environmental degradation. LU-P9.2 Welcome new businesses that improve supply chains for core local industries, including agriculture and food. LU-P9.3 Designate industrial land adjacent to major transportation infrastructure (i.e., freeways, rail lines, ports) and in other locations where the impacts of industrial traffic on neighborhoods and commercial areas can be minimized. LU-P9.4 Prioritize industrial land along the Bay and Delta shoreline for uses requiring deep-water access or large quantities of raw water for their processes (e.g., cooling), and discourage siting of other industrial uses that could be accommodated elsewhere. Continue partnering with regional agencies to ensure reliable deep-water access to industrial sites. LU-P9.5 Plan industrial uses and districts to be harmonious with nearby areas, reduce the potential for off-site impacts, and limit potential exposure to environmental health hazards and pollutants. Goal LU-9 Industrial areas that support advanced manufacturing, research and development, production and distribution, repair, and other sectors that anchor the county’s economy. Page 221Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element 4 -29 Actions LU-A9.1 Maintain formal “Priority Production Areas” designation of key industrial areas by ABAG/ MTC, confirming their long- term importance to the region and facilitating future investment. Pursue coordinated economic development funding for these areas. LU-A9.2 Monitor shifts in industrial markets resulting from the transition from fossil fuels and evaluate the County’s industrial land supply for opportunity zones or innovation districts that can accommodate industries such as advanced manufacturing, prefabricated housing production, biomedical/biotech, logistics and mobility hubs and transportation technology, clean technology, and maker spaces. Consider General Plan, zoning, and other regulatory changes that facilitate conversion of vacant or obsolete space to new uses as warranted. LU-A9.3 Amend the County Ordinance Code and/or procedures to streamline the permitting process for businesses and industries that provide living-wage jobs, invest in the community, hire from the local workforce, and embrace sustainability. See the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element for additional policies and actions that support the agriculture industry. See also the Stronger Communities Element for additional policies and actions related to a potential transition from fossil fuel industries to renewable and sustainable industries that offer living-wage jobs, and for additional policies and actions about economic development. See the Health and Safety Element for additional policies and actions related to hazardous materials. Goal LU-10 Agricultural buildings, like this barn in Tassajara Valley, enhance the character of rural areas. Goal LU-10 Rural, agricultural, and open space areas that provide scenic value, support Delta ecosystem health, and meet the needs of the agricultural industry. Page 222Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4 -30 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element Policies LU-P10.1 Encourage consolidation of agricultural parcels not meeting the minimum acreage requirement for the applicable zoning district. LU-P10.2 Ensure all former Williamson Act parcels are rezoned from Agricultural Preserve District to an agricultural zoning district appropriate for the area. LU-P10.3 Preserve the rural character of the following areas, which are displayed in Figure LU-5: (a) Alhambra Valley/Briones (b) Tassajara Valley (c) Agricultural Core between Brentwood and Discovery Bay (d) Crockett Hills between Crockett and State Route 4 (e) Franklin Canyon/State Route 4 corridor between Hercules and Martinez (f) Bollinger Canyon Road corridor between Las Trampas Regional Wilderness and Crow Canyon Road (g) Norris Canyon Road corridor between San Ramon and the Alameda County line (h) Marsh Creek Road corridor between Clayton and Byron Highway (i) Kirker Pass Road corridor (j) Morgan Territory Road corridor (k) Deer Valley Road corridor Pay special attention to potential aesthetic impacts in these areas and ensure such impacts are adequately mitigated. LU-P10.4 Maintain agricultural preserves in the Briones Hills and Tassajara Valley areas through agreements with adjacent cities to retain these areas for agricultural, open space, and other non-urban uses.* Actions LU-A10.1 Amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning related to development of homes and associated buildings and structures on agricultural properties to require clustering of such improvements to protect agricultural vitality and sustainability. LU-A10.2 Continue working with agricultural stakeholders to minimize the complexity, time, and expense of County permitting requirements for agricultural properties and maximize focus on meeting the objectives of the regulations. Page 223Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element 4 -31 FIGURE LU-5 RURAL AND AGRICULTURAL AREAS Page 224Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4 -32 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element See the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element for additional policies and actions related to open space management, agricultural resource conservation, and the agricultural industry. LAND USE ELEMENT PERFORMANCE MEASURES To track progress in achieving the major goals of this Element, every five years, the County will collect data to assess its performance against the following measures. Progress will be tracked relative to the prior performance review and the baseline year of 2024. Based on the findings from the five-year review, the County may adjust policies, actions, or the approach to implementing them to improve performance, as needed. • Cumulative numbers of single-family and multiple-family units and square footages of commercial and industrial development approved since General Plan adoption that stay within the development projections listed in Policy LU-P1.1, unless additional environmental review is conducted. • Increased acreage of permanently protected open space. • Improved balance between the number of employed residents and jobs to reduce the need for people to commute outside the county. • Increased ratio of multiple-family units to single-family units. • Increased percentage of households that are within a half-mile of a neighborhood-serving commercial service. Page 225Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element 5 -1 5 TRANSPORTATION ELEMENT Transportation is a fundamental part of our daily lives. The diversity and availability of transportation options, the conditions in which they exist, and how we ultimately choose to travel—to jobs, schools, homes, healthcare providers, stores, and leisure activities—have major implications for quality of life, public health, climate resilience, sustainability, and the environment. Contra Costa County has excellent regional access by road, passenger and freight rail, water, and air. The county includes dense urban neighborhoods served by local and express bus service, sprawling suburbs connected to the Bay Area’s larger employment centers by Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) and major freeways, and rural and agricultural communities served by a network of two-lane highways and roads. Multi-use trails found throughout the county serve pedestrians, cyclists, and micromobility. Reducing the need for single-occupant vehicle trips, improving travel times for transit and carpools, and providing multiple connections and options for travel between neighborhoods and destinations in Contra Costa County are key considerations for the future. Closing gaps in the multi-use trail network, improving the pedestrian realm, expanding transit access, and extending the range of efficient, safe, and easy options for getting around will enhance the quality of life for all community members. This Element focuses on providing people with a variety of high-quality transportation options, strengthening transportation connections to the rest of the Bay Area and beyond, and improving transportation within communities. The Transportation Element sets forth goals and policies describing the overall mobility program for the county and identifies the general location of existing and proposed major transportation routes, terminals, and facilities, as required by the California Government Code. The Transportation Element is divided into the following seven sections that address the needs of the Contra Costa community: • The Safe and Sustainable Transportation section includes policy guidance to improve safety for all roadway users and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and other environmental harms through expanded opportunities for active transportation, public transit, and zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs). • The Coordinated Planning section includes policy guidance to support the County's role in regional transportation projects that involve other agencies locally and across the Bay Area. • The Multimodal Roadway Network section defines roadway classifications and includes policy guidance to enhance mobility and connectivity for all roadway users. • The Active Transportation section defines bikeway types and includes policy guidance to expand opportunities for active transportation, which includes walking, biking, or other rolling forms of travel that support active lifestyles and health. • The Goods Movement section includes policy guidance to support rail, port, and truck facilities that bolster the economy, while reducing GHG emissions and protecting public health and safety. • The Air Mobility section includes policy guidance to provide safe and viable general and commercial aviation in the county. Page 226Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 5 -2 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element • The Transportation Element Performance Measures describe how the County will track its progress in achieving some of the major objectives expressed in this Element. This General Plan highlights policies and actions that address four major themes that serve as a framework for the Plan. For the reader’s ease, policies and actions related to these themes are identified throughout the General Plan using the following icons. The policies and actions related to each theme are also compiled in Appendix A. See Chapter 1 for more information about each theme. Community Health Environmental Justice Economic Development Sustainability Separated and protected bicycle facilities increase the usage and safety of bicycles as a mode of transport, helping to shift trips away from automobiles. SAFE AND SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORTATION We all use some form of transportation to reach our daily destinations. The mode of transportation people choose is affected by convenience, cost, comfort, perceived safety, travel time, and availability of options such as transit and bikeways. Since World War II, the transportation system in Contra Costa County has been focused on the automobile. The Public Works Department spends the majority of gasoline tax revenue on road maintenance primarily to ensure safe passage for cars. However, roadways that originally were designed to move cars as efficiently as possible can be redesigned to encourage walking, biking, and micromobility by making them safer and more comfortable through the provision of sidewalks, crosswalks, protected bike lanes, lighting, and shade. In addition, there is a range of public transit available that expands transportation options, including two BART lines, Amtrak’s Capitol Corridor and San Joaquins routes, local and express buses operated by several transit agencies, and ferry service (see Figure TR-1). The County plays an active role in promoting safe and sustainable transportation. Its Transportation Demand Management (TDM) program encourages developers to devise creative and effective ways to reduce car trips and associated impacts from new development. The County also maintains the Transportation Analysis Guidelines that establish a uniform approach to preparing traffic analyses and ensuring that County decisions support State, regional, and local goals, such as reducing vehicle miles traveled (VMT) and improving safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable users. Through these and other approaches, the County also aims to reduce air pollution and GHG emissions from the transportation sector. Page 227Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element 5 -3 FIGURE TR-1 PASSENGER RAIL AND FERRY SERVICES Page 228Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 5 -4 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element Despite efforts to reduce vehicle trips, cars are and will continue to be the dominant mode choice for years to come. This section promotes sustainability by supporting ZEVs. In 1990, the State initiated efforts to promote transitioning to ZEVs, and regulations have been strengthened over the years as technology has evolved to enable greater emissions reductions. The County is preparing for a future with ZEVs through the Contra Costa Electric Vehicle (EV) Readiness Blueprint, which identifies the best locations for EV charging infrastructure, provides local agencies with guidance to encourage EVs, addresses maintenance of EVs and charging infrastructure, and identifies areas where energy distribution improvements are needed to support charging infrastructure. To support safety on our roadways, the County adopted the Vision Zero Action Plan in 2022, which recognizes that fatalities and major injuries on roadways are preventable. Vision Zero is founded on the five elements of a Safe System Approach: safe road users, safe vehicles, safe speeds, safe roads, and post-crash care. The County supports programs and physical improvements aimed at getting us to zero deaths on our roadway network. To monitor progress, the Vision Zero Plan commits the County to ongoing tracking of collision data. Managing transportation safely and sustainably into the future will mean operating within available funding levels while positioning Contra Costa County to take advantage of current and future innovations. Such innovations could include alternative fuels, car sharing, micromobility, private transportation network services, autonomous vehicle technology, and other advances still to come. Through all of this, the County will need to ensure its actions and practices support its safety, equity, and sustainability goals. The Pleasant Hill/Contra Costa Centre BART station provides an alternative to commuting by car. Goal TR-1 Goal TR-1 A transportation system that promotes active transportation, supports effective and equitable provision of transit services, and reduces GHGs and other environmental harm. Page 229Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element 5 -5 Policies TR-P1.1 In addition to any required California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) review, evaluate the traffic operations effects of proposed projects in accordance with the County’s Transportation Analysis Guidelines and other appropriate policy supplements and transportation plans, and best practices. When operational deficiencies are identified, the treatments to address those deficiencies should first prioritize reducing the project’s vehicular trips and collision risks, and may secondarily consider adding vehicular capacity so long as the safety and movement of active modes are not compromised. Exceptions to the level of service (LOS) operational standards presented in the Transportation Analysis Guidelines may be granted if the treatments necessary to address operational deficiencies would conflict with other priorities in this General Plan and if the project is otherwise consistent with this Plan. TR-P1.2 Prioritize expansion of bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure to address the significant latent demand for these active transportation modes. TR-P1.3 Ensure emerging transportation technologies and travel options, such as autonomous and ZEVs and transportation network companies, support the County’s goals for reducing emissions, adapting to climate change, improving public safety, and increasing equitable mobility. TR-P1.4 Reduce single-occupant vehicle usage, at a minimum using strategies defined in the TDM Ordinance.* TR-P1.5 Ensure new highways constructed outside the Urban Limit Line are not growth-inducing through land-use controls, access limitations, and other appropriate measures. TR-P1.6 Partner with the Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) and California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) to better manage traffic operations on the State highway system in Contra Costa County through the application of ramp metering, construction of high- occupancy toll (HOT)/Express or other managed lanes, and other capacity-management techniques. TR-P1.7 Leverage the County’s position as a major employer to demonstrate leadership in enhancing workforce commute options. TR-P1.8 Support improvement and expansion of passenger and commuter rail service countywide, with emphasis on transformative projects such as the Hercules Intermodal Transit Center and BART extensions in the I-80 corridor toward Crockett and SR 4 corridor toward Brentwood. Page 230Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 5 -6 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element TR-P1.9 Encourage transit use by supporting expansion of first- mile/last-mile programs, including micromobility. TR-P1.10 Enhance multimodal access to all transit stops, including local routes as well as passenger and commuter rail stations and ferry terminals, prioritizing stops which serve vulnerable and mobility-impaired populations. TR-P1.11 Support transitioning all on-road vehicles, including personal vehicles and business, government, and public transit fleets, to electric power from renewable sources or other zero- emission fuels. TR-P1.12 Continue to improve ZEV (including electric bicycle) charging/fueling infrastructure within new development and public rights-of-way, incorporating new technologies whenever possible. TR-P1.13 Require designs for new parking facilities to incorporate ZEV charging/fueling infrastructure and maximize opportunities for adaptive reuse.* Actions TR-A1.1 Develop and promote mobility alternatives to single- occupancy vehicles, including but not limited to micromobility, zero-carbon rideshare strategies, and public transit. TR-A1.2 Review and update the County’s Transportation Demand Management Guidelines at least once every five years to incorporate current best practices. TR-A1.3 Update the Contra Costa County Transportation Analysis Guidelines on an as-needed basis. TR-A1.4 Implement programs to encourage transit use, bicycling, walking, telecommuting, and use of alternative vehicle fuels by County employees. TR-A1.5 Conduct a survey of County offices and facilities to identify gaps in the alternative transportation network and pursue funding for projects that will fill those gaps and improve the availability of alternative transportation for County employees. Page 231Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element 5 -7 TR-A1.6 Partner with transit agencies and CCTA to develop “Safe Routes to Transit” guidance that could be applied in new development areas and existing neighborhoods. TR-A1.7 Partner with transit providers, cities, and CCTA to develop a countywide transit stop program that takes a holistic approach to transit stop planning and construction. Push for the program to address right-of-way adequacy (i.e., sufficient space for bus pullouts and amenities), amenities (e.g., shelters, seating), and improvements around stops to increase accessibility (e.g., curb ramps, sidewalk widening). TR-A1.8 Work with transit agencies to provide convenient ways for residents to report transit shelters and other amenities (e.g., lighting, seating) that are in disrepair. Encourage and promote reporting countywide, especially in Impacted Communities. TR-A1.9 Pursue funding and other resources to implement the Accessible Transportation Services Strategic Plan and similar plans and initiatives that expand the hours of operation, operational boundaries, convenience, and quality of accessible transit to improve mobility for seniors, people with disabilities, and other vulnerable populations. TR-A1.10 Support establishment of a Bay Area-wide transit fare equity program that includes free or means-based transit passes for qualifying residents of Impacted Communities. TR-A1.11 Coordinate with CCTA and other local and regional agencies to implement the Contra Costa Electric Vehicle Readiness Blueprint and related policies and apply best practices in ZEV charging/fueling infrastructure requirements. TR-A1.12 Update the County Ordinance Code as necessary to support advances in ZEV charging/fueling infrastructure, including for medium- and heavy-duty vehicles. TR-A1.13 Advocate for legislation requiring micromobility and other transportation technology providers to accept responsibility for and mitigate the physical, operational, and financial impacts of their services upon local jurisdictions. See also the Health and Safety Element for policies and actions related to GHG emissions, air quality, and parking lot shading. Page 232Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 5 -8 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element Goal TR-2 Policies TR-P2.1 Pursue the priorities identified in the County’s Vision Zero and other safety programs, through prioritization of safety projects and incorporation of safety considerations into all transportation planning efforts. TR-P2.2 Minimize conflicts between vehicles and people who walk, bike, or use micromobility through careful site planning, paying particular attention to driveway locations and internal pedestrian circulation, and prioritizing safety for active modes of travel. TR-P2.3 Require installation of, or provide, energy-efficient street lighting to improve public safety and comfort in urbanized areas. Prioritize installation in Impacted Communities, particularly at parks, transit stops, alleyways, bike and pedestrian paths, trails, and other appropriate areas, consistent with community preferences. Actions TR-A2.1 Maintain a Vision Zero Working Group to regularly review collision data and evaluate the effectiveness of Vision Zero and other safety strategies. TR-A2.2 Identify and address neighborhood-specific issues and needs in Impacted Communities, prioritizing installation of sidewalks, enhanced crosswalks, street lighting, street trees, bicycling infrastructure, transit stop amenities, traffic calming, and other safety and comfort improvements, especially in residential areas and near schools, libraries, and recreational facilities. Explore innovative methods to ensure these facilities are maintained. Engage school districts, neighborhood groups, and the local Safe Routes to School Program in implementing this action. TR-A2.3 Coordinate with the California Public Utilities Commission and railroads to design and implement projects that address safety concerns and conflicts from at-grade rail crossings. See the Health and Safety Element for policies and actions related to evacuation. COORDINATED PLANNING Contra Costa County is part of a regional transportation network. Residents and workers have access to a variety of transportation options for intra- county and regional travel. Goal TR-2 A transportation system that protects human life. Page 233Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element 5 -9 The Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) serves as the Congestion Management Agency (CMA) for the county and distributes sales tax revenue to the County, cities, and transit agencies for projects and programs like freeway improvements, local road maintenance, public transit enhancements, and Safe Routes to School. CCTA prepares and implements the Countywide Transportation Plan (CTP) and its associated voter-approved Expenditure Plan to guide development of the future transportation system in Contra Costa County. To distribute transportation funding equitably and appropriately, CCTA divides the county into five subregions, each administered by a Regional Transportation Planning Committee. Unincorporated Contra Costa County is spread among all five subregions: • The West County subregion is administered by the West Contra Costa Transportation Advisory Committee (WCCTAC). • The Central County subregion is administered by the Transportation Partnership and Cooperation Committee (TRANSPAC). • The Lamorinda and Tri Valley subregions are administered by the Southwest Area Transportation Committee (SWAT). • The East County subregion is administered by the TRANSPLAN Committee. Due to the county’s diverse physical and demographic landscape, each subregion is governed by an Action Plan tailored to address its distinct transportation needs. The Action Plans and CTP also set quantifiable Regional Transportation Objectives (RTOs) to meet goals on Routes of Regional Significance, which are shown in Figure TR-2. Over time, the County implements projects and programs in the unincorporated areas to improve the transportation network and ultimately contribute to achieving the RTOs. For the larger Bay Area region, the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG)/Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) coordinate transportation planning and financing and administer regional plans that promote sustainable growth, including the Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy, known as Plan Bay Area 2050, and guide funding and policy decisions for the region. Goal TR-3 Policies TR-P3.1 Maintain an inclusive and orderly approach to interagency, interdepartmental, and stakeholder coordination on long- range capital planning and the design of specific transportation projects, including consultation with affected community and stakeholder organizations and appropriate commissions and committees. TR-P3.2 Coordinate planning, construction, and maintenance of streets, transit infrastructure, non-motorized rights-of-way and associated facilities, the countywide bicycle network, and Pedestrian Priority Areas with neighboring jurisdictions and CCTA.* Goal TR-3 Transportation facilities and services that are planned, funded, built, and maintained in a coordinated, cooperative, and effective manner. Page 234Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 5 -10 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element FIGURE TR-2 ROUTES OF REGIONAL SIGNIFICANCE Page 235Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element 5 -11 TR-P3.3 Partner with cities, the San Francisco Bay Area Water Emergency Transportation Authority (WETA), and other involved agencies to plan and implement ferry service that benefits unincorporated county residents. TR-P3.4 Work with project applicants and property owners to establish community facilities districts or other funding mechanisms to pay for construction, operation, and maintenance of new transportation infrastructure and programs without creating an undue financial burden on existing residents, businesses, or the County. Consider that new, innovative infrastructure may cost more to maintain than facilities installed in the past, and that the increase in ongoing maintenance costs is a potential reason to deny a development application. TR-P3.5 Pursue regional, State, and federal funding to augment locally generated funds to construct and maintain transportation infrastructure. Actions TR-A3.1 Coordinate with neighboring jurisdictions, CCTA, and the Regional Transportation Planning Committees to plan, design, and implement Complete Streets concepts on Routes of Regional Significance. TR-A3.2 Partner with CCTA, neighboring and regional agencies, and stakeholders to explore and implement options for transportation system funding, including assessment districts, county service areas, impact fees, tax revenue, and other funding sources. TR-A3.3 Continue updating the County’s Area of Benefit impact fee programs as a mechanism to collect fair-share contributions from new development and fund needed transportation improvements. See the Public Facilities and Services Element for policies and actions related to general infrastructure and infrastructure funding. MULTIMODAL ROADWAY NETWORK The local transportation system needs to serve all users and modes of transportation, with a focus on safety, accessibility, and convenient, efficient travel between origins and destinations in Contra Costa County. Enhancing mobility and connectivity for transit, bicycles, and pedestrians will also help reduce traffic congestion and pollution and promote public health. As interest in safe and sustainable transportation systems has grown, communities throughout California have been changing the transportation planning paradigm from a vehicle-centered exercise to a complete streets approach, in which all travel modes are accommodated in a balanced way based on the particular street’s location, land use context, and function within the circulation network. In 2016, Contra Costa County adopted its Complete Streets Policy that includes complete streets principles and implementation guidelines. The policy focuses on context-sensitive planning, Page 236Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 5 -12 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element the importance of considering user diversity (i.e., different user abilities and modes of travel), and a holistic approach that expects all involved County departments and all projects to include a complete streets focus. Roadway classifications help define the function of various street types in the transportation network, based on the level of traffic volume that can be served. Classifying roadways allows the County to monitor performance and plan for improvements needed to accommodate changes in traffic, as well as pedestrian and bicycle volumes over the life of this General Plan. Classifications are also necessary to ensure the County is eligible for roadway maintenance and improvement funding. This General Plan defines the County’s roadway network based on traditional categories recognized by regional, State, and federal transportation agencies. The roadway classifications included in the roadway network are described herein and shown on Figure TR-3. • Freeways are high-speed facilities that move inter-city or regional traffic. Freeways that provide regional access to, from, and within Contra Costa County include Interstate (I-) 80, I-680, I-580, State Route (SR) 4, SR 24, SR 242, and SR 160. • Arterials are relatively high-volume facilities that connect the regional roadway network to the local roadway network. Limited access is provided to abutting parcels in many cases. Arterial streets generally serve between 10,000 and 40,000 vehicles per day; some minor arterials serve fewer than 10,000 vehicles per day. Most intersections along arterials are signalized, often with a coordinated and interconnected signal system. Some of the primary arterials in Contra Costa County include Richmond Parkway, San Pablo Avenue, San Pablo Dam Road, Kirker Pass Road, Danville Boulevard/San Ramon Valley Boulevard, Camino Tassajara, Vasco Road, and Byron Highway. • Collectors connect residential and local-serving commercial areas with the arterial system. Collector streets serve as principal traffic arteries within residential and commercial areas. These streets typically carry up to 10,000 vehicles per day, although some collectors may carry more vehicle traffic for short segments as they convey traffic between arterial streets and local residential streets. Collectors are often important segments of bikeway networks. • Local roads provide circulation within neighborhoods and between adjacent land uses. They are typically low-speed, low-volume streets with design features that discourage through traffic to be more compatible with residential needs. San Pablo Dam Road in El Sobrante is classified as an arterial. Page 237Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element 5 -13 FIGURE TR-3 ROADWAY CLASSIFICATIONS Page 238Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 5 -14 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element The roadway network in the southeastern part of the county will be significantly expanded with the planned SR 239 project, which will provide a direct connection between SR 4 and the I-580/I-205 corridor in Alameda and San Joaquin Counties. Although SR 239 has been a legislatively designated route since 1959, development of the facility didn’t begin gaining momentum until 2005, with the County receiving several federal earmarks. As of Fall 2023 the project is in design and environmental review. SR 239 is a large, multiphase project that is anticipated to take some time to build out. The Vasco Road - Byron Highway Connector, which among other things would enhance access to Byron Airport, is being planned as the first phase. The County plans for roadway improvements and maintenance through the Capital Road Improvement and Preservation Program (CRIPP), which is updated every two years to identify the status, estimated cost, funding source, and schedule for roadway projects anticipated over the next seven years. Similar to the Zoning Code, the CRIPP must be consistent with the General Plan. California Government Code Section 65401 requires portions of capital improvement plans and programs such as the CRIPP to be reviewed annually for General Plan consistency. This review is conducted by the County’s Transportation, Water, and Infrastructure Committee, a subcommittee of the Board of Supervisors. Goal TR-4 Policies TR-P4.1 Plan, design, and maintain improvement projects involving County roadways in accordance with the County’s adopted Complete Streets Policy, other applicable policies (e.g., Vision Zero and other safety initiatives), planning documents such as the County ATP and CCTA Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan, and best practices (e.g., Caltrans, American Association of State and Highway Transportation Officials, and National Association of City Transportation Officials guidance).* TR-P4.2 Require transportation infrastructure serving new development to be designed using best practices, contemplating existing and planned land uses, roadways, bicycle and pedestrian facilities, transit facilities, and connections to adjoining areas.* TR-P4.3 Create connections between neighborhoods in unincorporated areas and adjacent jurisdictions to improve multimodal access to local destinations, such as schools, parks, shopping, health services, and workplaces. TR-P4.4 Manage access points along arterial and collector roadways to minimize the number of new driveway or street- type intersections. Consolidate existing street and driveway intersections to limit conflict points as opportunities arise. Goal TR-4 A roadway network that accommodates multimodal travel options for all county residents, businesses, and visitors, regardless of age, ability, race, culture, or economic status. Page 239Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element 5 -15 TR-P4.5 Require installation of, or provide, wayfinding signage (accessible to persons who are vision impaired) to aid navigation where necessary or desirable. TR-P4.6 Enhance streetscapes in nonresidential areas, making them more pedestrian-friendly by reducing off-street parking and setback requirements and augmenting traffic-calming measures. TR-P4.7 Encourage walkability and safety by streamlining implementation of traffic-calming measures through the Neighborhood Traffic Management Program. TR-P4.8 Minimize speeding through residential neighborhoods by implementing appropriate roadway design standard, traffic- calming, and other holistic solutions, as well as enforcement. TR-P4.9 Protect residential neighborhoods from outside or cut- through traffic by implementing appropriate design solutions aimed at keeping through traffic on arterials and collectors. TR-P4.10 Design roadway infrastructure, including traffic-calming and complete streets features, to accommodate emergency response vehicles while maintaining the safety of vulnerable road users.* Actions TR-A4.1 Update the County Standard Plans on an as-needed basis to reflect best practices in context sensitivity, complete streets, travel safety, and environmental sustainability. TR-A4.2 Ensure that the CRIPP: (a) Reflects current and best transportation planning practices. (b) Implements adopted transportation and land development policies. (c) Complies with public review requirements. (d) Presents planned transportation system improvements with an implementation schedule. TR-A4.3 Develop guidance for managing curb space in ways that are sensitive to the land use context, with considerations for freight deliveries, parking, active transportation use, users with limited mobility, transportation network companies, outdoor dining, and other curb uses that may emerge. Page 240Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 5 -16 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION Active transportation modes – i.e., walking, biking, micromobility, and other rolling forms of travel – support active lifestyles, which in turn support community health. Neighborhoods with safe and convenient walking and biking connections to parks, jobs, and schools provide residents with a healthier alternative to driving. The pedestrian network generally consists of sidewalks and multiuse trails. Sidewalks are provided in many neighborhoods, especially those developed since the 1960s, and commercial areas, but there are gaps throughout the network and older neighborhoods sometimes have no sidewalks at all. The bicycle network, which is shown on Figure TR-4 and includes a range of bikeway types, is less developed countywide. These networks are inclusive of “rolling” transportation, in which people may use a wheelchair, skate, ride a scooter, or push a stroller. Geographic barriers such as waterways, railways, and freeways pose challenges to pedestrian and bicycle/rolling circulation and connectivity. Expanding the pedestrian and bicycle network will enhance opportunities for active transportation and reduce dependency on the car. In 2022 the County adopted its Active Transportation Plan (ATP), which serves as a roadmap to enhancing active transportation safety and mode share by providing a comprehensive look at the County’s active transportation needs and opportunities. The ATP outlines investments in new bicycle facilities, upgraded crossings, enhanced trail connections, and improved walkways. Adopted by CCTA in 2018, the Contra Costa Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan (CBPP) identifies a network of “low-stress” routes that are comfortable for most pedestrians or bicyclists. Once developed, this network will allow people of all ages and abilities to connect across the county by walking or bicycling. Future bicycle connections planned by the CBPP are shown on Figure TR-4. The CBPP also identifies Pedestrian Priority Areas, shown on Figure TR-5, which are places where greater numbers of people are expected to walk and safety issues are most acute, indicating a need to prioritize investments in pedestrian improvements like walkways, curb ramps, and intersection improvements. With support from MTC, the County has also prepared two Community- Based Transportation Plans (CBTPs) in unincorporated areas near Richmond and Bay Point that intend to improve mobility options for low-income and underserved communities. The CBTPs seek to improve all types of transportation, increase access to services, improve the local quality of life, provide environmental benefits, and enhance the sense of community in the area. The Robert I. Schroder Overcrossing along the Iron Horse Trail is part of an important non- motorized regional connection between Pleasanton and Concord. . Page 241Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element 5 -17 FIGURE TR-4 EXISTING AND PLANNED BICYCLE NETWORK 022 023 Page 242Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #022 Posted by Bruce Brubaker on 10/22/2023 at 11:23am [Comment ID: 8] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: -1 The Active Transportation portion of the Transportation Element overlooks multi-use trails for use by both pedestrians and bicyclists for transportation and recreation. Multi-use trails such as the SanFrancisco Bay Trail, Iron Horse Trail, etc. represent the most popular and heavily used walking, running and cycling venues in the County. However, they are ignored by draft Plan’s dichotomous approach of separating the plan into bicycle facilities vs. pedestrian facilities. The plan should be revised to explicitly recognize and address Class I multi-use trails. Class I multi-use trails should recognized in the Plan, which currently discusses only bikeways and refers to “Class I bikeways (bike paths)”. Bay Trail Class I trails are designed and operated for use by both peds and cyclists. #023 Posted by Bruce Beyaert, TRAC Chair on 10/22/2023 at 11:24am [Comment ID: 9] - Link Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 The Active Transportation portion of the Transportation Element overlooks multi-use trails for use by both pedestrians and bicyclists for transportation and recreation. Multi-use trails such as the SanFrancisco Bay Trail, Iron Horse Trail, etc. represent the most popular and heavily used walking, running and cycling venues in the County. However, they are ignored by draft Plan’s dichotomous approach of separating the plan into bicycle facilities vs. pedestrian facilities. The plan should be revised to explicitly recognize and address Class I multi-use trails. Class I multi-use trails should recognized in the Plan, which currently discusses only bikeways and refers to “Class I bikeways (bike paths)”. Bay Trail Class I trails are designed and operated for use by both peds and cyclists. They Page 243Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 5 -18 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element FIGURE TR-5 PEDESTRIAN PRIORITY AREAS Page 244Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element 5 -19 Local bikeways are classified based on traditional categories recognized by regional, State, and federal transportation agencies. Each bikeway class is intended to provide bicyclists with safe and convenient riding conditions. Different bikeway designs offer various levels of separation from traffic based on traffic volume, speed, and other factors. There are four bikeway types: • Class I bikeways (bike paths) provide completely separate facilities from automobiles and are designated for the exclusive use of bicyclists and pedestrians with minimal cross-flow automobile traffic. In Contra Costa County, these types of paths are often along creeks, canals, and former rail lines. Class I bikeways are often used for recreational and commute trips. • Class II bikeways (bike lanes) provide designated street space for bicyclists, typically adjacent to the outer vehicle travel lanes. Bike lanes include special lane markings, pavement legends, and signage. Bike lanes may be enhanced with painted buffers between vehicle lanes and parking, and green paint along the bike lane or at conflict zones (such as driveways or intersections). • Class III bikeways (bike routes) provide enhanced conditions for bicyclists through signage, striping, and traffic-calming treatments, and provide continuity to a bikeway network. Bike routes are typically designated along gaps between bike paths or bike lanes, or along low- volume, low-speed streets. Bicycle boulevards provide further enhancements to bike routes by encouraging slow speeds and discouraging non-local vehicle traffic, often through use of traffic- calming features. Bicycle boulevards can also feature special wayfinding signage to nearby destinations or other bikeways. • Class IV bikeways (separated or protected bikeways), also referred to as cycle tracks, are bikeways for the exclusive use of bicycles, which are physically separated from vehicle traffic with a vertical element. Types of separation may include grade separation, plastic delineator posts, concrete dividers, or on-street parking. Pedestrian infrastructure such as signals, sidewalks, and crosswalks enhance safety. Goal TR-5 Goal TR-5 Support people who walk, bike, roll, or use mobility devices by creating safe, equitable, connected, and comfortable facilities for all ages and abilities. 024 Page 245Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #024 Posted by Bruce Beyaert, TRAC Chair on 10/22/2023 at 11:26am [Comment ID: 10] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 The Active Transportation portion of the Transportation Element overlooks multi-use trails for use by both pedestrians and bicyclists for transportation and recreation. Multi-use trails such as the SanFrancisco Bay Trail, Iron Horse Trail, etc. represent the most popular and heavily used walking, running and cycling venues in the County. However, they are ignored by draft Plan’s dichotomous approach of separating the plan into bicycle facilities vs. pedestrian facilities. The plan should be revised to explicitly recognize and address Class I multi-use trails. Class I multi-use trails should recognized in the Plan, which currently discusses only bikeways and refers to “Class I bikeways (bike paths)”. Bay Trail Class I trails are designed and operated for use by both peds and cyclists. They Page 246Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 5 -20 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element Policies TR-P5.1 Plan, design, construct, and maintain facilities for walking, bicycling, and rolling to serve people of all ages, abilities, and income levels, including children, seniors, families, and people with limited mobility. TR-P5.2 Coordinate with Caltrans to provide safe and comfortable highway interchange crossings for people of all ages and abilities who walk, bike, or use micromobility. TR-P5.3 Prioritize construction of capital improvement projects identified in the County’s ATP. TR-P5.4 Ensure that fee programs include active transportation facilities, and require new development to contribute funds, right-of-way, and/or provide active transportation facilities themselves, where feasible.* TR-P5.5 Maintain pedestrian and active transportation facilities to the same standard as roads and other transportation infrastructure, including repair and cleanup of all bikeway types and shared-use pathways. TR-P5.6 Support use of temporary, quick-build, demonstration, and pilot pedestrian and bicycle improvements to test their effectiveness and promote active transportation strategies to the public. TR-P5.7 Encourage walking, bicycling, and micromobility as the travel modes of choice for short to medium-length trips, such as trips to schools, parks, transit stops, local shopping areas, and neighborhood services. TR-P5.8 Partner with neighboring jurisdictions, transit agencies, community members, and business organizations to plan and construct sustainable streets in business and commercial areas. Consider forming community facilities districts or business improvement districts to help fund and maintain improvements. TR-P5.9 Support micromobility options such as bike-, e-bike-, and e- scooter-share. TR-P5.10 Require generous parking for bicycles and other mobility devices at key destinations, such as shopping centers, schools, workplaces, transit stations, and multiple-family housing. Page 247Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element 5 -21 Actions TR-A5.1 Partner with CCTA and neighboring jurisdictions to build out the countywide bicycle and pedestrian network, prioritizing completion of the Low-Stress Countywide Bicycle Network and pedestrian safety improvement projects in the County’s Pedestrian Priority Areas, as described in the Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan. TR-A5.2 Construct innovative bicycle and pedestrian facilities, including Class IV separated and protected bikeways, bicycle superhighways, and other low-stress facility types, as described in the Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan and in contemporary, best-practice transportation planning and engineering guidance. Use contextually appropriate green infrastructure and landscaping to separate vehicular lanes from bicycle and pedestrian facilities whenever feasible. TR-A5.3 Periodically review the scoring formula for active transportation projects to ensure continued prioritization of projects in Impacted Communities. TR-A5.4 Partner with the cities, EBRPD, and CCTA to develop uniform guidance to manage active micromobility services. TR-A5.5 Consider allowing temporary and permanent re-orientation of public space towards increased outdoor activity, including walking, bicycling, rolling, dining, and other social uses. GOODS MOVEMENT Industry and commercial enterprises in Contra Costa County are served by a goods movement system that includes rail, port, truck, and air facilities. As shown on Figure TR-6, all freeways in the county are designated as State truck routes. I-80 and I-680 are the principal north-south corridors and connect to neighboring industrial hubs, while SR 4 is the principal east-west transportation corridor serving the industrial areas of the 55-mile Northern Waterfront. Two major transcontinental railroads, Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) and Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR), follow the county’s western and northern shorelines, connecting the Northern Waterfront to the rest of the county, and serving ports and major rail facilities in Oakland and Richmond. The Port of Richmond, within the Richmond city limits, is a deep-water port that connects the county to markets regionally and farther afield. Deep- water shipping channels along the Northern Waterfront connect to the Ports of Sacramento and Stockton. Finally, Buchanan Field Airport in Concord is capable of handling small cargo aircraft. While goods movement is an essential component of daily life and the economy, it can cause severe health and quality of life impacts for residents who are exposed to air pollution, noise, and the potential for accidents from from nearby trains, ships, trucks, and planes. In Contra Costa County, heavy- duty truck emissions at industrial facilities and on local roads and freeways is a significant contributor to health disparities, especially in Impacted Page 248Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 5 -22 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element FIGURE TR-6 GOODS MOVEMENT FACILITIES Page 249Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element 5 -23 Communities. Given these and other concerns, goods movement is heavily regulated by by federal and State agencies, including the California Air Resources Board, which restricts idling times for heavy-duty trucks to minimize localized air pollution. Contra Costa County is part of the global shipping economy through various local ports, marine terminals, and railroads. Goal TR-6 Policies TR-P6.1 Partner with neighboring jurisdictions, CCTA, and the MTC to manage regional movement of goods through unincorporated areas, minimizing impacts on residents and other sensitive receptors. TR-P6.2 Support roadway improvements that facilitate regional goods movement, such as construction of SR 239 and the Vasco Road-Byron Highway Connector near Byron, and replacement of the Old River Bridge near Discovery Bay. TR-P6.3 Work with ABAG/MTC to improve resilience, speed, and reliability of goods movement through expansion of smaller ports-of-entry which will increase redundancy, thereby limiting exposure to disruptive events at larger congested ports. TR-P6.4 Use all available policy tools to ensure that trucks use designated truck routes. TR-P6.5 Work with railroads to preserve non-operational contiguous railroad rights-of-way, and highly encourage construction of grade-separated railroad crossings along active lines to support current and future rail operations and ensure the long-term viability of these rail corridors. When no longer in Goal TR-6 Safe and efficient movement of goods consistent with the County's goals to reduce emissions, protect public safety, and support economic development, local access, and circulation. Page 250Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 5 -24 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element operation, maintain options for future use of the corridors for trails or other public purposes. TR-P6.6 Support development of short-line railroad infrastructure and operations in industrial areas to facilitate rail access to Class I railroad lines, attract potential businesses seeking rail-served properties, ease traffic congestion caused by goods movement on regional highways, and reduce GHG emissions. TR-P6.7 Support deepening and ongoing maintenance of the deep- water ship channels between San Francisco Bay and Stockton and continued deep-water access to the county’s Northern Waterfront. TR-P6.8 Support continued operation, maintenance, and further development of ports and terminals consistent with federal, State, and County environmental policies and economic priorities. Actions TR-A6.1 Develop a program to establish and maintain truck routes, with the goal of minimizing impacts on residents and other sensitive receptors. This program will provide engineering and policy solutions to divert trucks from Impacted Communities and establish criteria for designating weight limits on certain routes and installing physical barriers and signage. TR-A6.2 Facilitate enforcement of idling restrictions by promoting community-based reporting to enforcement agencies. TR-A6.3 Amend County Ordinance Code Title 9 – Subdivisions to require new multiple-family residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments to designate areas adequate for package and goods deliveries and passenger loading and unloading. TR-A6.4 Develop regulations responding to technological advancements in freight movement, such as autonomous vehicles, robotics, and drone deliveries, while supporting the County’s goals for reducing emissions, adapting to climate change, improving public safety, and increasing equitable mobility. See the Health and Safety Element for policies and actions related to protecting the transportation network, including rail, from sea-level rise. AIR MOBILITY Contra Costa County has two public County-owned airports: Buchanan Field Airport near Concord and Byron Airport, south of Byron. Buchanan Field Airport provides general aviation, recreation, emergency response, law enforcement, passenger, cargo, and charter services. The airport is surrounded by urban development, which limits its potential for expansion. Byron Airport serves general aviation functions and is a popular base for skydivers, gliders, and other recreational flight activities. Byron Airport also serves as a testing ground for new aviation technologies. Page 251Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element 5 -25 Airports influence surrounding land uses for up to three miles from the runways, affecting unincorporated and incorporated areas. To protect public safety and the long-term operations of the airports, the County’s Airport Land Use Commission adopted the Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (ALUCP), which regulates the location of land uses near both airports through the designation of Airport Land Use Compatibility Zones (see Figure TR-7). Specifically, the ALUCP seeks to protect the public from adverse effects of aircraft noise, ensure people and facilities are not concentrated in areas susceptible to aircraft accidents, and ensure no structures or activities adversely affect navigable airspace. Emerging technologies will influence future air mobility, including vertical takeoff and landing aircraft that can expand air mobility options for people and cargo to places that had previously lacked air access. Such aircraft can be served by vertiports that are specifically designed for this technology and take up smaller spaces than traditional airports. Buchanan Field is one of two general aviation airports in Contra Costa County. Goal TR-7 Policies TR-P7.1 Partner with other agencies to obtain funding for planning, development, improvement, operation, and maintenance of general and commercial aviation facilities. TR-P7.2 Work with the Federal Aviation Administration and aviation operators to minimize conflicts with residential areas and other sensitive receptors. TR-P7.3 Regulate the location of private airfields and heliports to protect public safety and minimize impacts on nearby residents and sensitive receptors.* TR-P7.4 Protect the County’s airports from encroachment by incompatible uses and minimize the public’s exposure to safety hazards and excessive noise by ensuring that all future development within each Airport Influence Area is consistent with the Contra Costa County ALUCP.* Goal TR-7 Safe and viable general and commercial aviation activities in Contra Costa County. 025 Page 252Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #025 Posted by Dick Offerman on 01/31/2024 at 2:21pm [Comment ID: 37] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 Some conflicts with residential areas might end if the County would stop the sale of toxic leaded aviation fuel. No amount of lead is good in children’s blood. Please use an unleaded version of aviation fuel, just like Santa Clara County has done. Page 253Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 5 -26 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element FIGURE TR-7 BUCHANAN FIELD AIRPORT AND BYRON AIRPORT COMPATIBILITY ZONES Page 254Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element 5 -27 TR-P7.5 Partner with the cities of Concord and Pleasant Hill in making land use decisions that support Buchanan Field Airport's ongoing viability while protecting public safety, consistent with the Airport Master Plan and ALUCP. TR-P7.6 Enhance Byron Airport’s viability by protecting it from incompatible urban encroachment, such as large-scale residential development, and providing infrastructure that supports existing and planned airport activities, consistent with the Airport Master Plan and ALUCP. TR-P7.7 Embrace emerging aviation-related technologies, such as drones, electric-powered aviation, and vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, to promote economic development and support the County’s goals for reducing emissions, adapting to climate change, improving public safety, and increasing equitable mobility. Actions TR-A7.1 Update the ALUCP every 5 to 10 years to maintain consistency with applicable federal and State requirements, regional plans, and this General Plan, and to achieve the County’s goals for Buchanan Field Airport and Byron Airport. TRANSPORTATION ELEMENT PERFORMANCE MEASURES To track progress in achieving the major goals of this Element, every five years, the County will collect data to assess its performance against the following measures. Progress will be tracked relative to the prior performance review and the baseline year of 2024. Based on the findings from the five-year review, the County may adjust policies, actions, or the approach to implementing them to improve performance, as needed. • Reduced per-capita VMT. • Reduced single-occupant vehicle mode share. • Increased bicycle and pedestrian trips. • Reduced average commute time for county residents. • Increased ZEV charging and fueling infrastructure. • Reduced number of roadway collisions involving fatalities and serious injuries. Page 255Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 5 -28 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element This page intentionally left blank. Page 256Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -1 7 CONSERVATION, OPEN SPACE, AND WORKING LANDS ELEMENT Contra Costa County encompasses a large geographic area containing diverse species, habitats, open spaces, working lands, and natural and cultural resources. This Element promotes conservation, preservation, and enhancement of these critical assets. It is organized around the following nine sections: • The Open Space Framework section includes policy guidance to conserve open space throughout the county to protect ecological resources, provide recreation opportunities, and improve resilience to climate change-related impacts. • The Agricultural Resources and Working Lands section includes policy guidance to protect agricultural lands from conversion to urban uses and support a thriving agricultural economy. • The Ecological Resources and Natural Systems section includes policy guidance to preserve and enhance important ecological resources, including creeks, wetlands, riparian areas, and upland habitat. • The Water Resources section includes policy guidance to sustainably manage surface water and groundwater resources, and protect and enhance the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta and shoreline areas. • The Historic and Cultural Resources section includes policy guidance to support identification and preservation of archaeological, historic, and tribal resources in the county, and underscores a commitment to consult and collaborate with local tribes throughout the planning process. • The Scenic Resources section includes policy guidance to protect the abundant scenic resources in the county, including scenic routes, scenic ridges, and other natural features with scenic value. • The Mineral Resources section includes policy guidance to support mineral extraction operations, which are an important part of the regional economy, while avoiding land use conflicts and negative environmental impacts. • The Energy Resources section includes policy guidance to conserve energy and support a transition to zero-carbon energy sources, such as wind and solar. • The Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element Performance Measures describe how the County will track its progress in achieving some of the major objectives expressed in this Element. This General Plan highlights policies and actions that address four major themes that serve as a framework for the Plan. For the reader’s ease, policies and actions related to these themes are identified throughout the General Plan using the following icons. The policies and actions related to each theme are also compiled in Appendix A. See Chapter 1 for more information about each theme. Page 257Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 7 -2 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element Community Health Environmental Justice Economic Development Sustainability OPEN SPACE FRAMEWORK Contra Costa County is a unique place where the greater San Francisco Bay Area, Delta, and Central Valley meet. Well over a third of the county’s unincorporated area is designated for resource conservation, open space, and parks and recreation uses. EBRPD manages numerous recreational open spaces, including Briones Regional Park. Major open space landowners in Contra Costa County include: • East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD), which owns and manages over 65,000 acres of parkland in the county. • East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD), which owns and manages almost 27,000 acres of watershed land in the areas around San Pablo, Briones, and San Leandro Reservoirs. • Contra Costa Water District (CCWD), which owns and manages approximately 20,000 acres of watershed land surrounding Los Vaqueros Reservoir. Among the State agencies owning land in Contra Costa County, the California Department of Parks and Recreation (CDPR) owns the most. The 20,000-acre Mount Diablo State Park, surrounding the iconic 3,849-foot peak of Mount Diablo, is the most well-known State park in the county. In addition, land trusts like Save Mount Diablo, John Muir Land Trust, and Agricultural-Natural Resources Trust work in tandem with the local community to conserve open space. These open spaces are diverse in size and character, ranging from the wetlands and marshes at the gateway to the Delta, to the rugged and wooded 2,800-acre Wildcat Canyon Regional Park, nestled in the Berkeley Hills. Each open space area is defined by a combination of resources, habitats, and agency jurisdiction that require different approaches to preservation, rewilding, and interagency coordination. These open spaces comprise an integrated natural network supporting the county’s livability and resiliency to climate change, and are important recreational and scenic resources highly valued by the community. The County therefore partners with other agencies, such as those discussed above and the Contra Costa Resource Conservation District (RCD), and non-profit organizations to ensure that these resources are protected. Page 258Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -3 Delta waterways are an important open space feature in East County. Goal COS-1 Policies COS-P1.1 Support efforts by public agencies and nonprofit organizations to acquire and permanently protect open space areas containing important ecological or scenic resources and areas that connect protected lands to form a cohesive system of open space. Plan infrastructure to avoid interfering with such acquisitions whenever possible. COS-P1.2 Pursue opportunities for permanent open space dedication for habitat, scenic, or passive recreation benefits as part of future development approvals and major capital improvement projects. COS-P1.3 Discourage conversion of land designated Resource Conservation or Parks and Recreation to urban uses. If such conversion occurs, require mitigation through permanent protection of other open space or park lands for habitat, scenic, or recreation benefits at a ratio to be determined based on the biological, scenic, or recreational value of the land, but not less than 3:1.* COS-P1.4 Require new projects adjacent to protected open space areas, such as EBRPD lands, to establish buffers on their properties as necessary to minimize conflicts and protect the open space. If conflicts arise between protected open spaces and other uses, prioritize maintaining the viability of the open space functions.* Actions COS-A1.1 Convene an annual staff-level meeting with involved agencies (e.g., East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy, EBRPD), land trusts, and conservation groups to review current and planned efforts to protect and maintain open space. Goal COS-1 Preserved open space for environmental protection, resource management and production, recreation, scenic value, and climate resilience and adaptation. 026 Page 259Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #026 Posted by Jim Hanson, CA Native Plant Society-East Bay on 04/08/2024 at 3:47pm [Comment ID: 61] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 We don't think the County should inadvertently encourage opening this as a legitimate development option in the General Plan. Important ecological and natural resource areas are often the result of years of site resource inventories and citizen advocacy for their ongoing protection. If someone wants to open the door to try to convert natural resource areas and parks to urban uses, they will. This policy is unnecessary. It confuses the Goal and other policies in this section. We recommend that this Policy be deleted. Page 260Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 7 -4 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element See the Land Use Element for additional policies and actions related to the Urban Limit Line and open space uses. AGRICULTURAL RESOURCES AND WORKING LANDS Agricultural Resource Areas There are approximately 254,500 acres of agricultural land mapped by the State in Contra Costa County, most of it in the unincorporated area. The California Department of Conservation’s Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program (FMMP) maps land by agricultural production potential using the following categories: • Prime Farmland has the best combination of physical and chemical features able to sustain long-term agricultural production. Prime Farmland has the soil quality, growing season, and moisture supply needed to produce sustained high yields. • Farmland of Statewide Importance is similar to Prime Farmland, but with minor shortcomings, such as steeper slopes or less ability to store soil moisture. • Unique Farmland consists of lesser-quality soils used for producing the state’s leading agricultural crops. This land is usually irrigated but may include non-irrigated orchards or vineyards, as found in some climatic zones in California. • Farmland of Local Importance consists of dryland grains and irrigated pastures not meeting the definitions of Prime Farmland, Farmland of Statewide Importance, or Unique Farmland. • Grazing Land is land on which the existing vegetation is suited to the grazing of livestock. These categories are used to determine impacts to agricultural land under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Figure COS-1 shows agricultural land in the unincorporated county as mapped by the FMMP. In addition to the FMMP, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) maps prime productive agricultural soils, which are classified as Class I and 2 soils and considered the very best soils for farming. As shown in Figure COS-2, these soils are primarily in East County. Agricultural land and farmworker labor yield valuable crops in Contra Costa County. Agricultural lands provide additional benefits outside the traditional crop and agricultural product yield. These lands can provide natural habitats and support ecological functions, while sequestering carbon to support climate stability. Agricultural lands, when managed appropriately, can also serve as strategic wildfire resilience assets by acting as a buffer between fire-prone landscapes and communities. Page 261Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -5 FIGURE COS-1 AGRICULTURAL LAND Page 262Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 7 -6 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element FIGURE COS-2 PRIME PRODUCTIVE AGRICULTURAL SOILS Page 263Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -7 The County realizes the multiple benefits of agriculture and has implemented various programs and regulations to support agricultural land conservation. These include the Agricultural Land Conservation Ordinance, which implements the Williamson Act by allowing property owners to receive a reduced property tax rate in exchange for keeping land in agricultural production, and the Right-to-Farm Ordinance, which protects farms from nuisance complaints. The County also promotes integrated pest management (IPM) strategies to support healthy crops while reducing use of harmful chemicals and associated impacts to the environment. Grazing goats can eliminate weeds and reduce wildfire risks as an IPM strategy. Photo credit: Contra Costa Health Integrated Pest Management Goal COS-2 Policies COS-P2.1 Preserve large, contiguous areas of the county for agricultural production. Prohibit projects that would lead to fragmentation of agricultural areas.* COS-P2.2 Preserve and protect productive agricultural land from conversion to urban uses, especially land designated as Prime Farmland, Farmland of Statewide Importance, or Unique Farmland on the Important Farmland Map prepared by the California Department of Conservation; land containing Class 1 or Class 2 soils; and land designated Agricultural Core.* COS-P2.3 Require a 40-acre-minimum parcel size for subdivisions of prime productive agricultural land (i.e., Class 1 and Class 2 soils). Goal COS-2 A thriving and resilient agricultural sector based on resource conservation and sustainability practices. Page 264Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 7 -8 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element COS-P2.4 Require new projects adjacent to agriculture to establish buffers on their properties as necessary to minimize conflicts and protect agriculture.* COS-P2.5 When resolving conflicts between agricultural uses and urban uses, prioritize maintaining the viability of the agricultural uses. COS-P2.6 Require deed disclosures for new residential development in or adjacent to areas designated or zoned for agricultural use. The disclosures must explain the potential disturbances associated with agricultural operations (e.g., dust, noise, odors, and use of pesticides) and reference the Right-to- Farm Ordinance, which protects agricultural operations from nuisance complaints and unreasonable restrictions.* COS-P2.7 Encourage owners of qualifying agricultural land to participate in the Williamson Act (Agricultural Preserve) Program. COS-P2.8 Support public infrastructure projects and programs that will increase, enhance, and protect agricultural land and its production capabilities. COS-P2.9 Coordinate with Byron-Bethany Irrigation District and East Contra Costa Irrigation District to facilitate water conservation, efficient use of agricultural irrigation water, and implementation of emerging water reuse technologies and practices. COS-P2.10 Support soil conservation and restoration programs. Encourage agricultural landowners to work with agencies such as the USDA’s NRCS and Contra Costa RCD to reduce erosion and soil loss. COS-P2.11 Support efforts to protect, maintain, and improve soil health as a carbon sequestration tool. COS-P2.12 Partner with the agricultural community and University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE) to support regenerative agriculture practices that maintain agricultural viability. COS-P2.13 Encourage IPM practices that reduce the use of agricultural pesticides and minimize pesticide drift, and discourage farming practices that may expose residents, water resources, and the environment to fine particulates and harmful chemicals. Page 265Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -9 Actions COS-A2.1 Review each update of the California Department of Conservation FMMP data and report to the Board of Supervisors on the quantity of land in the county converted to and from agricultural use. COS-A2.2 Work with the agricultural community, Contra Costa LAFCO, and cities to establish programs and mechanisms to protect agricultural resources, such as preservation agreements, conservation easements, an agricultural soils trust fund, and agricultural mitigation fees. COS-A2.3 Conduct a study of potential Transfer or Purchase of Development Rights (TDR/PDR) programs to address development pressures and preserve agricultural land. The study should determine: (a) Overall feasibility and usefulness toward implementing the County’s agricultural preservation goals. (b) Specific mechanisms that could be used. (c) Geographic areas where these mechanisms could be used. (d) Organizational and administrative requirements. (e) Cost to the County and potential revenue sources. COS-A2.4 Amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to include development standards, and possibly adopt accompanying design guidelines, for urban land uses that interface with agricultural uses, addressing, at minimum: (a) Setbacks on urban properties to provide a buffer for agricultural uses. (b) Location and arrangement of buildings, structures, and uses on urban properties. (c) Lighting, fencing, screening, and appropriate landscaping/vegetation. COS-A2.5 Review the Williamson Act Program to identify potential areas for improvement, such as: (a) Expanding the range of allowable uses to include wildlife habitat areas. (b) Increasing enforcement of non-compliant properties. (c) Ensuring agricultural conservation commitments are adequate to justify inclusion in the Program. (d) Creating a mechanism to ensure rezoning of properties no longer under a Williamson Act contract. See the Land Use Element for additional policies and actions related to agricultural areas and the Health and Safety Element for additional policies related to soil health in support of carbon sequestration. Page 266Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 7 -10 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element Agricultural Economy Contra Costa County’s rich soils, climate, and reliable water supplies have allowed generations of farmers to produce an array of outstanding crops. Contra Costa farmers have grown a wide variety of food for the Bay Area and beyond since the Gold Rush, from vast winter wheat fields in the 1880s to sweet corn, stone fruits, vegetables, olives, wine grapes, and beef today. East County has a long history of agricultural tourism, including U-pick farms going back to the 1970s. The unique combination of world-class growing conditions, proud farming tradition, and proximity to major metropolitan areas makes agriculture one of the county’s most important assets. Peppers are harvested in East Contra Costa County. (Community-submitted photo) As of 2021, Contra Costa County ranked 36th out of California’s 58 counties in total agricultural production, with a $109.4 million value, despite being 51st in land mass. Cattle and calves, sweet corn, tomatoes, grapes, and cherries are the highest-grossing agricultural yields in the county. Future economic opportunities for Contra Costa County agriculture include: • Demand for organic products. • Demand for locally-grown, healthy, and sustainably produced food. • Potential to expand value-added food processing, manufacturing, co- processing, and co-packing across the county. • Expanded agricultural tourism. U-pick farms offer opportunities to experience agriculture firsthand and support the local farming community. Page 267Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -11 The Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development (DCD) and Department of Agriculture, Weights, and Measures seek to promote and protect the county’s agricultural industry, crops, and rangelands. The future of the county’s agricultural economy is supported by local agriculturalists introducing innovative approaches to farming and seeking creative ways to reintroduce farming culture and recapture earnings. Goal COS-3 Policies COS-P3.1 Support development of public and private infrastructure and services needed to support agriculture. COS-P3.2 Support efforts to promote and market locally grown and value-added agricultural products. COS-P3.3 Enable farmers to showcase farm products grown on-site and elsewhere within the county and offer on-site farm experiences, such as culinary classes, farm-to-table meals, tastings, and special events, while maintaining the character and integrity of the surrounding agricultural landscape. COS-P3.4 Enable farmers and ranchers to provide small-scale, short- term guest accommodations in a manner that is nondisruptive to the rural setting. COS-P3.5 Assist the agricultural community through the County's economic development programs. COS-P3.6 Support the Contra Costa RCD in carrying out its mission to assist farmers and ranchers through programs that conserve natural resources and build a strong farming community. COS-P3.7 Support rural property owners who apply to the Contra Costa LAFCO to detach agricultural land outside the Urban Limit Line (ULL) from special districts that provide urban services. COS-P3.8 Allow farmworker and farm family housing in agricultural areas to meet the needs of locally employed seasonal and permanent farmworkers. Goal COS-3 A thriving, sustainable, and competitive agricultural economy. Page 268Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 7 -12 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element Actions COS-A3.1 Establish a mitigation program to offset conversion of working lands (irrigated and intensively cultivated agricultural lands and rangeland) to nonagricultural uses. The program will define the types of land conversions requiring mitigation, mitigation ratios, acceptable mitigation locations, allowable conservation instruments, and use of in-lieu fees.* COS-A3.2 Partner with the agricultural community and agencies such as the Delta Protection Commission to obtain funding for design, installation, and ongoing maintenance of proper signage promoting agriculture in the county, including wayfinding signage for agricultural tourism (e.g., U-pick, lodging, food service, winery) uses. COS-A3.3 Designate a staff position in DCD to serve as a point of contact to guide members of the agricultural community in understanding the processes at DCD, help DCD staff understand the particular needs of the agricultural community, and coordinate with other agencies, such as the Contra Costa RCD, USDA NRCS, UCCE, County Department of Agriculture, Weights, and Measures, and County Environmental Health Division. COS-A3.4 Work with the agricultural community and UCCE to promote education, training, information-sharing programs, and networking opportunities for farmers, ranchers, and agricultural agencies to increase agriculture’s resilience to climate change hazards. COS-A3.5 Coordinate with the Contra Costa RCD, USDA NRCS, UCCE, Contra Costa Mosquito and Vector Control District, County Department of Agriculture, Weights, and Measures, and County Environmental Health Division to support sustainable and resilient agricultural operations through vegetation and pest management programs, best management practices, technical assistance related to soil health, funding opportunities for efficient irrigation infrastructure, and information about alternative crop types that are drought-, heat-, and severe weather-resistant. See the Land Use Element for additional policies and actions on the Urban Limit Line and agricultural lands. ECOLOGICAL RESOURCES AND NATURAL SYSTEMS Ecological Resource Areas Ecological resource areas contain the county's most important biological resources and cultivate biodiversity. The County partners with a variety of public agencies to manage and protect these and other natural resources. The East Contra Costa Habitat Conservancy oversees implementation of the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservation Plan/Natural Community Conservation Plan (HCP/NCCP), which provides regional conservation and development guidelines to protect natural resources while improving and streamlining the permit process for projects that will impact endangered species and sensitive habitat. The HCP/NCCP allows local agencies to Page 269Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -13 authorize endangered species permitting for activities and projects in the region, while providing comprehensive species, wetlands, and ecosystem conservation and contributing to the recovery of endangered species in northern California. The area covered by the HCP/NCCP totals over 174,000 acres and is shown in Figure COS-3. The HCP/NCCP mainly offsets ecological impacts by conserving and restoring lands in a Preserve System. The Preserve System ultimately will encompass between 23,800 and 30,300 acres that will be acquired and managed to benefit the 28 plant and animal species covered by the HCP/NCCP, as well as the natural communities that they, and hundreds of other species, depend on for habitat. During the first 15 years of HCP/NCCP implementation, 42 properties were acquired for the Preserve System, totaling over 14,400 acres. All but one of the acquisitions were completed in partnership with EBRPD. In addition to the HCP/NCCP, the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG)/Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) have identified Priority Conservation Areas (PCAs) throughout the county and region. These areas, for which there is broad consensus on the need for long-term protection given the ecological resources present and urban development pressures, are eligible for conservation grants through the One Bay Area Grant Program. PCAs in Contra Costa County total over 135,000 acres and are shown on Figure COS-4. Goal COS-4 Policies COS-P4.1 Maintain ecologically significant resource areas in their natural state to the greatest extent possible. Limit development in and near these areas to compatible low- intensity uses with adequate provisions to protect sensitive resources, including setbacks around resource areas. Prohibit projects that would lead to fragmentation of ecologically significant resource areas.* COS-P4.2 Support land conservation and restoration consistent with the HCP/NCCP and discourage development in areas where such conservation is planned, as shown on Figure COS-3. Support actions to preserve land and resources within PCAs mapped by ABAG, as shown on Figure COS-4. COS-P4.3 Require a biological resources assessment prepared according to State and federal protocols for projects with the potential to impact rare, threatened, endangered, or special-status species or their habitat, and implement appropriate mitigation for identified impacts.* COS-P4.4 Protect habitat and wildlife migration corridors, and support projects that enhance these areas.* COS-P4.5 Discourage the use of fencing that poses risks to wildlife.* Goal COS-4 Preserved and enhanced ecological resources and wildlife habitat. 027 Page 270Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #027 Posted by Jim Hanson, CA Native Plant Society-East Bay on 04/08/2024 at 2:25pm [Comment ID: 53] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 Please make consistent with state and federal protocols with the following "...to impact rare, threatened, and endangered special-status species, sensitive plant communities, and locally-rare native plants and their habitats...." Page 271Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 7 -14 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element FIGURE COS-3 EAST CONTRA COSTA COUNTY HABITAT CONSERVATION PLAN/NATURAL COMMUNITY CONSERVATION PLAN AREA Page 272Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -15 FIGURE COS-4 PRIORITY CONSERVATION AREAS Page 273Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 7 -16 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element COS-P4.6 Require appropriately-timed, comprehensive floristic and vegetation surveys prepared according to State and federal protocols when development is proposed on land with potentially suitable habitat for special-status plant species, including areas mapped by the California Native Plant Society as Botanical Priority Protection Areas.* COS-P4.7 Require avoidance and protection of sensitive ecological resources not approved for disturbance or removal during project entitlement, and require restitution in exceedance of standard mitigation ratios for inadvertent damage to these resources.* COS-P4.8 Require majority use of native plant species in landscaping for new developments, and require construction practices that avoid spread of invasive plant species by minimizing surface disturbance; seeding and mulching disturbed areas with certified weed-free native mixes; disinfecting/ decontaminating equipment; and using native, noninvasive, drought-resistant species in erosion-control plantings.* COS-P4.9 Support preservation of native and sport fisheries and reestablishment of fisheries in streams wherever possible. Actions COS-A4.1 For the portion of the county not covered by the HCP/NCCP, prepare and maintain a similarly detailed inventory of ecologically significant resource areas, including unique natural areas, wetlands, floodplains, riparian resources, and the habitat of rare, threatened, endangered, and other uncommon and protected species.* COS-A4.2 Amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to include development standards, and possibly adopt accompanying design guidelines, for urban land uses that interface with ecologically significant resource areas and other protected conservation lands, addressing, at minimum: (a) Setbacks on urban properties to provide a buffer for resource areas. (b) Clustering of development to maximize ecological and conservation benefits. (c) Lighting, fencing, screening, and landscaping/vegetation that support, and do not interfere with, wildlife migration and other conservation purposes.* See the scenic resources section of this Element for policies and actions related to conservation of hillsides and steep slopes. 028 029 Page 274Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #028 Posted by Jim Hanson, CA Native Plant Society-East Bay on 04/08/2024 at 2:29pm [Comment ID: 54] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 Please include for consistency with state and federal protocols..."suitable habitat for special-status plant species, sensitive natural plant communities, and locally rare plants,...." Thank you for noting the Botanical Priority Protection Areas mapping. #029 Posted by Jim Hanson, CA Native Plant Society-East Bay on 04/08/2024 at 2:52pm [Comment ID: 55] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 Please substitute to provide a clearer policy direction on the value Contra Costa County places on its remarkable floristic and fauna biodiversity: “Avoidance and protection of sensitive ecological resources, including special-status plants, sensitive natural plant communities, locally rare plants, and the pollinator and wildlife habitat they support, will be the norm and standard in the entitlement of any project. Disturbance or removal of sensitive ecological resources not approved for disturbance or removal during project entitlement will require restitution in exceedance of standard mitigation ratios for inadvertent damage to these resources.” Page 275Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -17 Creeks, Wetlands, and Riparian Areas Contra Costa County hosts abundant aquatic habitat through its freshwater and coastal salt marshes, mud flats, inland wetlands, and riparian vegetation. Wetlands, especially marshes scattered along the shoreline, are among the most important habitat resources within the county and have substantial legal and policy protection. They are critical for climate resilience, as they offer flood and storm surge protection during storm events by absorbing excess water and reducing erosion and the height of flooding. Wetlands also intercept water runoff and remove pollutants, improving water quality. Wetlands in Radke Martinez Regional Shoreline Park provide valuable wildlife habitat along the Carquinez Strait. (Community-submitted photo) As illustrated on Figure COS-5, many creeks, streams, and other drainages extend throughout the county and ultimately drain into San Francisco Bay, San Pablo Bay, and the Delta. Outside the urbanized parts of the county, creeks and streams tend to be in a natural or mostly undisturbed state, supporting diverse plant and animal life. The riparian ecosystems along creek banks provide permanent homes and migratory pathways for many species, while also offering recreational opportunities for people to connect with nature. Natural creeks and other freshwater bodies also store water and help to recharge groundwater basins, which increases resiliency to drought conditions. However, many creeks within urbanized areas have been heavily modified to support flood control, often by rerouting them into concrete channels or culverts. Recognizing the importance of creeks in supporting ecological, recreational, and flood-control goals, in 2009 the County adopted an outline of a 50-year plan to convert creeks back to their natural state. Goal COS-5 Policies COS-P5.1 Support protection, restoration, and enhancement of creeks, wetlands, marshes, sloughs, and tidelands, and emphasize the role of these features in climate change resilience, air and water quality, and wildlife habitat. Goal COS-5 Protected and restored natural watercourses, riparian corridors, and wetland areas that improve habitat, water quality, wildlife diversity, stormwater flows, and scenic values. Page 276Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 7 -18 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element FIGURE COS-5 WATERSHEDS, WATERBODIES, CREEKS, AND RIVERS Page 277Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -19 COS-P5.2 Require new public infrastructure and private development projects to preserve, and whenever possible enhance, natural watercourses, floodplains, and riparian habitat.* COS-P5.3 Require avoidance, minimization, and/or compensatory mitigation for development that would impact a wetland, wetland species, or adjacent upland habitat areas. Where feasible, compensation shall be in-kind (i.e., the same type of habitat), provided on-site, and based on a ratio that provides a margin of safety reflecting the expected degree of success and accounting for the relative functions and values of the lost and created wetlands.* COS-P5.4 Require new buildings and structures on private property be set back at least 75 feet from the edge of any wetland area, unless a peer-reviewed, site-specific evaluation indicates that a different setback is appropriate for protecting the wetland and adjacent upland habitat areas. Allow encroachment into a required wetland setback area only when a parcel would otherwise be rendered unbuildable or impacts have been adequately mitigated.* COS-P5.5 Acquire deeded development rights to setback areas surrounding wetlands, floodplains, and natural watercourses to ensure preservation of the resource and protect adjacent improvements.* COS-P5.6 Require increased setbacks for animal-handling uses whenever necessary to protect natural watercourses, riparian habitat, or erosion-prone soils. Setback increases can be applied to all aspects of the use, such as manure storage areas, and are not limited to buildings and structures.* COS-P5.7 Allow encroachments into required setback areas along natural watercourses and wetlands for the purpose of constructing public improvements or public-serving amenities, such as bridges, trails, and nature viewing areas. COS-P5.8 Prohibit direct runoff of pollutants and siltation into marsh, creek, and wetland areas from outfalls serving urban development.* Actions COS-A5.1 Inventory wetlands, floodplains, marshlands, and adjacent lands that could potentially support climate adaptation (e.g., through flood management, filtration, or other beneficial ecosystem services) and mitigation (e.g., carbon sequestration).* COS-A5.2 Amend the County Ordinance Code to include the wetland setback requirement described in Policy COS-P5.4.* Page 278Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 7 -20 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element COS-A5.3 Amend the County Ordinance Code to apply the creek setback requirements in Title 9 – Subdivisions to all projects, including those that are not part of a subdivision.* See the Health and Safety Element for policies and actions about flooding and sea-level rise. Uplands The upland areas of Contra Costa County support grasslands, shrublands, woodlands, and forests. These natural communities are important because they provide carbon sequestration, nutrient cycling, forage and homes for wildlife, erosion control, and recreation, while also supporting agriculture and other working lands. Oak trees, an iconic part of the landscape in the county and throughout the state, are recognized by State law with special protections for oak woodlands. Oak trees dot the natural landscape in upland areas of Contra Costa County. (Community- submitted photo) Goal COS-6 Policies COS-P6.1 Preserve natural woodlands and significant trees, particularly mature native species.* COS-P6.2 Encourage planting and propagation of native trees throughout the county to enhance the natural landscape, provide shade, sustain wildlife, absorb stormwater, and sequester carbon. COS-P6.3 Support protection of native trees, especially oaks, in foothill woodlands and agricultural areas by encouraging voluntary installation of fencing around individuals or clusters of trees to prevent grazing and promoting replanting of native species. COS-P6.4 Encourage removal of invasive, non-native tree species, especially those known to pose threats to public safety. Goal COS-6 Preserved and enhanced native upland habitat, including woodlands, grasslands, and rangelands. 030 031 032 Page 279Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #030 Posted by Jim Hanson, CA Native Plant Society-East Bay on 04/08/2024 at 3:21pm [Comment ID: 58] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 Please make it more comprehensive as follows: "Support actions to result in removal of non-native, invasive trees, shrubs, and grassland weeds, especially those that are ecologically harmful or pose threats to public safety." #031 Posted by Jim Hanson, CA Native Plant Society-East Bay on 04/08/2024 at 3:01pm [Comment ID: 57] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 Please add: "..particularly mature native species, intact coastal scrub and chaparral, and grasslands, particularly those with native native grass and wildflower populations." #032 Posted by Jim Hanson, CA Native Plant Society-East Bay on 04/08/2024 at 3:23pm [Comment ID: 59] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 Please add: "...encourage the planting of native trees and habitat-supporting native shrubs, forbs, and grasses.... Page 280Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -21 COS-P6.5 Encourage revegetation of native species in areas that were previously converted for agriculture but are no longer in production. Actions COS-A6.1 Update County Ordinance Code Chapter 816-6 – Tree Protection and Preservation, to enhance tree protections and strengthen mitigation requirements/restitution for tree removal.* COS-A6.2 Develop an Oak Woodland Conservation Program that establishes special mitigation ratios for removal of oak trees, along with specific tree replacement and planting standards to ensure long-term growth and survival. Amend the County Ordinance Code as needed to implement the program.* WATER RESOURCES Surface and Groundwater Resources Supporting the life-sustaining properties of water as a natural resource is a complex challenge. Water is dynamic, contested, and increasingly scarce. Maintaining the quality of the county’s water supply requires protecting surface water and groundwater from the impacts of past and future development. An important tool for protecting water quality is the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES), which requires a permit to discharge water or wastewater into surface waters. The County supports the efforts of outside regulatory agencies who protect water quality, and actively monitors regional, State, and federal programs that could affect water quality and water supply safety in the county. As discussed in the Public Facilities and Services Element, there are two major water service providers in the county that rely on surface water resources from the Mokelumne River and Delta: EBMUD and CCWD. These utilities own the watershed lands around their storage reservoirs, as shown in Figure COS-6, and they actively manage the land to protect the quality of the East Bay’s water supply. Figure COS-7 shows Census tract rankings for impaired waterbodies in the county. This data ranks Census tracts based on the number of pollutants found in all waterbodies within the Census tract that are designated as impaired relative to Census tracts in the rest of the state. As shown in the figure, the highest rankings for impaired waterbodies are in East County where pesticide use from agricultural operations harms water quality. Some Census tracts on the north and west sides of the county also rank high, mainly due to discharge from industrial uses. State data also demonstrates threats to groundwater quality, as shown in Figure COS-8. This data ranks Census tracts based on activities that pose threats to groundwater quality, such as uses involving hazardous chemicals, gasoline or diesel, solvents, heavy metals, or pesticides. These threats are most significant along the Northern Waterfront where there is a high concentration of heavy industrial uses. The Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA), enacted in 2015, provides a framework of priorities and requirements to facilitate sustainable groundwater management throughout the state. Groundwater Sustainability Agencies (GSAs) and other local public agencies help manage groundwater in high- and medium-priority groundwater basins to ensure it is maintained 033 034 Page 281Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #033 Posted by Jim Hanson, CA Native Plant Society-East Bay on 04/08/2024 at 2:57pm [Comment ID: 56] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 Please add....Expand the tree root protection zone beyond the dripline." Recommended by California Oaks. #034 Posted by Jim Hanson, CA Native Plant Society-East Bay on 04/08/2024 at 3:24pm [Comment ID: 60] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 Please add: "Encourage revegetation with local or regional ecotypes of native species....." Page 282Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 7 -22 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element FIGURE COS-6 UTILITY DISTRICT WATERSHED LANDS Page 283Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -23 FIGURE COS-7 IMPAIRED WATERBODIES RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE Page 284Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 7 -24 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element FIGURE COS-8 GROUNDWATER THREAT RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE Page 285Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -25 within its sustainable yield. Groundwater Sustainability Plans (GSPs) are adopted and implemented by GSAs and other agencies to be consistent with the SGMA. Groundwater basins in the county are shown in Figure COS-9. Three of these are medium-priority: East Contra Costa, East Bay Plain, and Livermore Valley. In eastern Contra Costa County, seven local agencies, including the County, are GSAs. These agencies signed a memorandum of understanding agreeing to prepare a single GSP for the East Contra Costa Subbasin, which was adopted by the County in December 2021. Goal COS-7 Policies COS-P7.1 Require new development to reduce potable water consumption through use of water-efficient devices and technology, drought-tolerant landscaping strategies, and recycled water, where available.* COS-P7.2 Partner with water and wastewater service providers, GSAs, irrigation districts, and private well owners to increase participation in water conservation programs countywide. COS-P7.3 Consult applicable GSPs and local GSAs before making land use decisions that could impact groundwater resources.* COS-P7.4 For projects in areas without a water service provider, require proof of adequate on-site groundwater during the development review process. In addition to requiring compliance with the County’s well regulations related to water quality and flow rate, require documentation that the proposed project will not have a significant cumulative impact on the aquifer or negatively affect development that already relies on the same groundwater supply.* COS-P7.5 Prohibit new development that would create or significantly aggravate groundwater overdraft conditions, land subsidence, or other “undesirable results,” as defined in Section 354.26 of the California Water Code.* COS-P7.6 Support multipurpose water storage options that incorporate water supply, flood control, surface and groundwater storage, groundwater management, and ecosystem components. COS-P7.7 Require landscaping for new development to be drought- tolerant, filter and retain runoff, and support flood management and groundwater recharge.* Goal COS-7 Sustainable surface and groundwater resource management. Page 286Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 7 -26 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element FIGURE COS-9 GROUNDWATER BASINS Page 287Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -27 COS-P7.8 Promote installation of drought-tolerant green infrastructure, including street trees, in landscaped public areas. COS-P7.9 Support wastewater reclamation and reuse programs that maximize use of recycled water. COS-P7.10 Support programs and activities conducted by community watershed groups and volunteers that increase public awareness and encourage stewardship of water resources. Actions COS-A7.1 Update County Ordinance Code Chapter 414-4, Water Supply, to be consistent with adopted GSPs.* COS-A7.2 For areas that are not covered by an adopted GSP, amend the County Ordinance Code to include sustainability indicators, defined by the SGMA, as a guide for development to maintain and protect the quality and quantity of groundwater supplies within the county.* COS-A7.3 Evaluate the feasibility and necessity of amending the County Ordinance Code to promote rainwater harvesting, installation of dual plumbing, and water reuse. COS-A7.4 Publish information on the DCD website about alternative sources of water for irrigation and other non-potable needs, such as greywater, rainwater, air conditioning condensation, and foundation drainage. Goal COS-8 Policies COS-P8.1 Protect public water supplies by denying applications for projects that would introduce significant new pollution sources in groundwater basins and watersheds feeding major reservoirs, and support efforts to acquire and permanently protect reservoir watersheds.* COS-P8.2 Coordinate with other agencies to control point and non- point sources of water pollution and maintain water quality standards.* COS-P8.3 Support development and implementation of a long-term, area-wide integrated vegetation management program to control invasive weeds in a way that reduces pesticide use and preserves water quality. Goal COS-8 Protected quality of surface water and groundwater resources. Page 288Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 7 -28 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element COS-P8.4 Require new development to retain natural vegetation and topography whenever feasible and require projects involving erosion-inducing activities to use best management practices to minimize erosion.* COS-P8.5 Require groundwater monitoring programs for all large-scale commercial and industrial facilities that use wells and prohibit discharge of hazardous materials through injection wells.* COS-P8.6 Support ongoing remediation of the Mount Diablo Mercury Mine. See the Public Facilities Element for policies and actions on water and wastewater service, drainage, and stormwater management. See the Health and Safety Element for policies and actions on flood control. Delta and Shoreline Resources Encompassing 738,000 acres, the Delta is the largest estuary on the West Coast and the confluence of California’s two longest rivers: the Sacramento River and San Joaquin River. East County is home to a large portion of the western Delta where unique plant and animal communities flourish. The Delta is one of the county’s greatest natural resources, and its health is critical to the county’s physical, societal, and economic well-being. A healthy Delta requires sufficient high-quality water to provide habitat for fish and other native aquatic, terrestrial, and avian species, both migratory and year-round. The Delta needs proper management, including through partnerships between federal, State, and local agencies, to protect people and land with strong levees, comprehensive emergency response, and fresh water. The Delta also promotes the economic health of the region through recreation, industrial and maritime commerce, and agriculture. The Delta provides a portion of the water supply for 30 million people and over 6 million acres of agriculture. However, the Delta’s health has declined in recent decades due to wetland loss, diversions of water for export to other regions, increased salinity from diversions and drought, pollution from urban run-off and agricultural pesticide use, and invasive species, which threatens our health, safety, and welfare. Without continued improvements to the ecosystem through conservation and restoration efforts and sustainable land use practices, the Delta is at risk of further decline. Understanding this need, the County adopted its Delta Water Platform in 2014 to guide decisions, actions, and advocacy in a way that supports the Delta’s health and sustainability. The Delta is an extensive network of waterways stretching from East Contra Costa County to Sacramento and Stockton. (Credit: California Department of Water Resources) Page 289Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -29 Goal COS-9 Policies COS-P9.1 Advocate for increased freshwater flow into, through, and from the Delta into San Francisco Bay, and support other efforts to protect and improve Delta water quality. COS-P9.2 Support continued maintenance and improvement of Delta levees to protect water quality, ecosystems, agricultural land, and at-risk communities. COS-P9.3 Oppose all efforts to construct an isolated conveyance (e.g., peripheral canal, tunnel) or any other water diversion system that reduces Delta water flows unless and until it can be conclusively demonstrated that such a system would protect, preserve, and enhance water quality and fisheries of the San Francisco Bay/Delta estuary system. COS-P9.4 Plan for land uses along shorelines that do not pose a threat to Bay or Delta resources, including water quality and shoreline and marshland habitats.* COS-P9.5 Support efforts to expand and enhance public access to the Bay shoreline and Delta. COS-P9.6 Prohibit private development on tule islands, sand dunes, and levee remnants. COS-P9.7 Evaluate cumulative impacts on boating safety when reviewing applications for new or expanded marinas and docks. COS-P9.8 Require design excellence for new development along Bay and Delta waterways to enhance the visual quality of these areas. Actions COS-A9.1 Amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to incorporate the following requirements for new or expanded marinas and docks: Goal COS-9 Protected, preserved, and enhanced scenic quality, recreational value, and natural resources of the San Francisco Bay/Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta estuary system and shoreline. Page 290Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 7 -30 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element (a) Adequate channel width and depth, as defined by the State Harbors and Navigation Code. (b) Adequate public fire protection services. (c) Adequate public vehicular access. (d) Adequate supply of potable water. (e) Adequate on-site facilities for sewage and solid waste disposal. (f) Compatibility with nearby agricultural uses. (g) Compatibility with nearby conservation/habitat lands. (h) Designed to avoid inundation from projected sea- level rise, as shown on Figures HS-6 through HS-9 (Sea-Level Rise Projection Maps) in the Health and Safety Element.* HISTORIC AND CULTURAL RESOURCES Archaeological and Historic Resources Although the Spanish explored Contra Costa County as early as 1772, significant European settlements were not established until the nineteenth century. In 1822, the newly independent Mexican government began issuing land grants, called ranchos, to its citizens in California. Sixteen ranchos existed in what is now Contra Costa County, and most of the land was used for grazing or growing wheat. One rancho was later purchased by a settler named John Marsh in 1837. It became known as Marsh’s Landing, near present day Antioch, and grew into an important commercial center along the San Joaquin River during the California Gold Rush. The success of Marsh’s Landing encouraged other American immigrants to purchase land in the area, and permanent communities began to take shape. Following the Gold Rush, agriculture was the economic driver in the region, boosted by the Southern Pacific Railroad’s expansion into the area in the late nineteenth century. South of Brentwood, the John Marsh House was built by Dr. Marsh in 1856. (Community- submitted photo) Industrial development and associated residential development to house workers shaped the western portions of Contra Costa County from the early twentieth century. In 1906, the C&H Sugar Factory was established in Crockett, taking advantage of cargo ship access via the Carquinez Strait. Petroleum refineries were also developed during the late 1800s and early 1900s. World War II brought rapid expansion of industrial development to support war efforts, including the famous Kaiser Richmond Shipyards. Over centuries, people have immigrated to the region from other cities, states, and countries, and the diverse population forms the unique fabric of modern-day Contra Costa County. This history is represented in the almost Page 291Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -31 400 historic sites, buildings, and other structures that have been identified in Contra Costa County’s Historic Resources Inventory. They range from historic buildings that were part of the early industrialization of the western county, like the C&H Sugar Factory, to historic ranches and homes, like the home of John Muir, which is part of the John Muir National Historic Site in Martinez. In 2019, the United States Congress established the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta National Heritage Area (NHA), which runs from the east side of San Pablo Bay through the Carquinez Strait to the Delta. The Delta NHA is recognized as a cohesive, nationally significant landscape arising from patterns of human activity shaped by the Delta’s geography. The Delta Protection Commission is drafting a Management Plan to promote historic preservation, cultural conservation, education and interpretation, development of recreational assets, nature conservation, tourism, and economic development throughout the Delta NHA. The draft Management Plan will be submitted for review and approval by the United States Department of the Interior in the first quarter of 2024. Other State and federal laws and programs help to protect historic and archaeological resources, including the California Historical Building Code, which preserves California’s architectural heritage by ensuring historic buildings are maintained and rehabilitated in accordance with historically sensitive construction techniques. In addition, the Mills Act, enacted in 1976, provides a property tax incentive to owners of qualified, owner-occupied, historical properties to maintain and preserve the historic property in accordance with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties. The National Historic Preservation Act coordinates public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect historic and archaeological resources across the nation. The Act authorized the National Register of Historic Places, which lists districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects that are significant in American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, and culture. Goal COS-10 Policies COS-P10.1 Prioritize preservation and adaptive reuse of buildings, sites, and areas having identifiable archaeological, cultural, or historic significance. Require new construction and renovation projects in historic areas to incorporate compatible and high-quality design that protects the overall historic integrity of the area and adjacent historic resources.* COS-P10.2 Encourage sensitive restoration and adaptive reuse of historic resources following the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties, including additions and alterations to buildings that do not diminish historic integrity. COS-P10.3 Encourage owners of historic properties to make use of the State of California Historic Building Code to protect and rehabilitate historic resources. Goal COS-10 Archaeological, cultural, and historic resources that are identified and preserved. Page 292Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 7 -32 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element COS-P10.4 Encourage owners of eligible historic properties to apply for State and federal designation as historic properties and participate in tax incentive programs, such as allowed under the Mills Act, for historic preservation. COS-P10.5 When a project involves a resource that is listed in the County’s Historic Resources Inventory, or as otherwise necessitated by the CEQA process, require applicants to engage a qualified consultant to prepare an evaluation of potential and previously identified archaeological, cultural, and historic resources that may be present on the project site.* COS-P10.6 Upon discovery of significant historic or prehistoric archaeological artifacts or fossils during project construction, require ground-disturbing activities to halt within a 50-foot radius of the find until its significance can be determined by a qualified historian, archaeologist, or paleontologist and appropriate protection and preservation measures developed.* COS-P10.7 Require significant historic, archaeological, and paleontological resources to be either preserved onsite or adequately documented as a condition of removal.* COS-P10.8 Emphasize native people, immigrant populations, and the environmental and cultural heritage of the region as significant themes related to historic preservation. Consider natural, agricultural, ranching, mining, commercial, industrial, residential, political, transportation, recreation, education, maritime, and military themes when evaluating the significance of historic resources. COS-P10.9 Ensure new cultural/historic resource evaluations consider potential social and cultural significance of resources in addition to architectural significance. COS-P10.10 Coordinate with cities and special districts to identify and preserve archaeological, cultural, and historic resources countywide. COS-P10.11 Partner with other agencies, culturally affiliated tribes, private entities, and nonprofit organizations to establish programs and funding mechanisms to preserve, restore, and enhance cultural, historic, and archaeologic sites. Actions COS-A10.1 Beginning in 2024, then every five years thereafter, review and update the County’s Historic Resources Inventory and Archaeological Sensitivity Map in consultation with culturally affiliated tribes to ensure these remain useful tools for evaluating potential cultural resources impacts and guiding preservation efforts. As part of the 2024 update to the Historic Resources Inventory, create a map of the listed historic Page 293Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -33 resources, and update the map upon each update to the Historic Resources Inventory. Ensure tribal cultural resources identified through these updates remain confidential. COS-A10.2 Evaluate and implement one or more measures to protect and preserve historic and cultural resources, such as a historic and cultural resources ordinance, overlay district, and/or design guidelines. COS-A10.3 Prepare a historic context statement that provides necessary background information about historic, archaeological, and cultural resources and a framework for identifying and evaluating historic resources. The context statement should include the overarching significance themes described in Policy COS-P10.8. COS-A10.4 Partner with the Delta Protection Commission to support preparation and implementation of the management plan for the Delta NHA. Tribal Communities Contra Costa County is in an area where traditional territories of three Native American tribal communities – the Bay Miwok, Northern Valley Yokuts, and Ohlone – converged. The Bay Miwok inhabited the inner Coast Range, with territory stretching through eastern Contra Costa County, from Mount Diablo into the Delta. The Bay Miwok were politically organized by tribelet, which consisted of one or more villages and camps within a defined territory. The Northern Valley Yokuts are the historical occupants of the central and northern San Joaquin Valley, and their territory extended into eastern Contra Costa County. Their main settlements were built atop low mounds on or near the banks of large watercourses for protection against flooding. Each subtribe was autonomous with a headman, and populations averaged around 300 individuals. The territory of the Ohlone people extended along the coast from the Golden Gate south to just below Carmel, as well as along several inland valleys that led from the coastline. The Ohlone were also politically organized by tribelet, with each having a designated territory. All of these tribal communities were primarily hunter-gatherers; they hunted animals like mule deer, tule elk, pronged antelope, mountain lions, whales, and waterfowl. They would travel seasonally into the foothills or plains to gather specific plant resources, such as acorns, buckeye nuts, hazelnuts, and pine nuts, as well as seeds, roots, and berries. These and other resources likely supported hundreds of individual villages throughout what is now Contra Costa County. Despite the violence and displacement that accompanied European and Mexican settlement of this area and decimated indigenous communities, the indigenous inhabitants of the land are still present. Today, there are several Ohlone nations in Contra Costa, Alameda, Solano, Napa, and San Joaquin Counties, each with its own culture and language, including the Lisjan (Ohlone), Karkin (Ohlone), Bay Miwok, Plains Miwok, Delta Yokut, and Napian (Patwin). Page 294Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 7 -34 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element This rich tribal history and living tribal culture are reflected in a range of tribal cultural resources throughout the county. Tribal cultural resources often are less tangible than an object or a site itself. For example, sometimes the importance is tied to views of or access to a sacred site. Therefore, consultation with culturally affiliated Native American tribes is key to identifying tribal cultural resources, as required by Assembly Bill 52. CEQA requires that local agencies evaluate and mitigate to the extent feasible a project’s potential impacts to tribal cultural resources. In addition, Section 7050.5 of the California Health and Safety Code requires that construction or excavation be stopped in the vicinity of discovered human remains until the County Coroner can determine whether the remains are those of a Native American. If the remains are determined to be Native American, the Coroner must contact the California Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) to determine appropriate treatment (as prescribed in Public Resources Code Section 5097 et seq.). Construction or excavation activity must remain stopped until lawful removal of the remains for reinternment or cremation. Pursuant to Senate Bill 18, the County notified and consulted with local tribes throughout the General Plan update process. The policies and actions in this section reflect that consultation and commit the County to continuing a collaborative relationship through implementation of this General Plan. Goal COS-11 Policies COS-P11.1 Respect and protect tribal cultural resources, including historic, cultural, and sacred sites; cultural landscapes; views of or access to resources; and objects with cultural value to California Native American tribes.* COS-P11.2 Establish and maintain collaborative relationships with local Native American tribal representatives to facilitate tribal consultation and preservation of tribal cultural resources.* COS-P11.3 Consult with culturally affiliated tribes on General Plan and Specific Plan amendments with potential to impact tribal cultural resources. If an amendment redesignates a tribal cultural resource site for open space purposes, evaluate the appropriateness of developing a treatment and management plan for tribal cultural resources in the affected area.* COS-P11.4 Consult with culturally affiliated tribes to identify and appropriately address tribal cultural resources through the discretionary development review process.* COS-P11.5 Consult with culturally affiliated tribes to assess the sensitivity of sites and protect recorded and unrecorded tribal cultural resources.* Goal COS-11 Robust tribal collaboration to preserve, restore, and enhance tribal cultural resources. Page 295Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -35 COS-P11.6 Encourage voluntary landowner efforts to protect tribal cultural resources. COS-P11.7 Support tribal acquisition of conservation easements on terms mutually satisfactory to the tribe and landowner for purposes of protecting tribal cultural resources. COS-P11.8 Encourage special districts, such as EBRPD, to consult with culturally affiliated tribes when pursuing land acquisitions for recreation or other public purposes to ensure tribal access to tribal cultural resources. COS-P11.9 Avoid impacts of development on Native American archaeological resources and tribal cultural resources whenever possible. When impacts cannot be avoided, mitigate to the maximum feasible extent.* COS-P11.10 Consult with culturally affiliated tribes when developing mitigation measures to avoid or minimize impacts on tribal cultural resources. Mitigation could include, but is not limited to, a cultural resources treatment agreement between the developer and affected tribe(s) that addresses the treatment and disposition of cultural resources and human remains and tribal monitoring during earth-disturbing activities.* COS-P11.11 Upon discovery of a burial, human remains, or suspected human remains, require immediate halt to ground-disturbing activities such as excavation and grading, protection of the area surrounding the find, notification of the County Coroner, and compliance with the provisions of California Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5, including California Public Resources Code Section 5097.98, if applicable. If human remains are determined to be Native American, require the applicant to consult with the Most Likely Descendants list to determine appropriate treatment, as prescribed in Public Resources Code Section 5097 et seq.* COS-P11.12 Encourage landowners to relinquish ownership of Native American cultural artifacts found on project sites to the culturally affiliated tribe for proper treatment and disposition. Actions COS-A11.1 In consultation with local Native American tribes, prepare informational materials about living Native American culture in the region, the history of Native Americans in what is now Contra Costa County, and how the County’s relationship with local Native American tribes has evolved. Make these materials easily accessible to the public, project applicants, and County staff. COS-A11.2 Work with local Native American tribes to establish programs and secure funding to implement actions aimed at preserving tribal cultural resources. Page 296Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 7 -36 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element SCENIC RESOURCES With its vast open spaces, estuary system, and rolling hills, Contra Costa County encompasses an outstanding variety of scenic natural vistas, water resources, and landscapes. Many of these scenic resources, including the open spaces and Delta, are discussed in earlier sections of this Element. This section focuses on designated scenic routes and scenic ridges, which are described as follows: • Scenic routes are public roadways that pass through picturesque natural landscapes. These roads tend to offer sweeping views of particularly beautiful areas or prominent features, such as valleys and mountain ranges. • Scenic ridges are ridges that contribute to the scenic quality and character of a community or locale. In many areas, visually prominent ridges offer a striking and welcome contrast to the urban environment. Unobstructed ridgelines are an important component of the county’s scenic landscape. Figure COS-10 shows scenic routes and ridges as designated by the County through this General Plan. The map also includes the only scenic route in the county officially designated by the State, State Route (SR) 24, as well as portions of SR 4, which are eligible for the State designation. The County designates scenic routes and ridges in order to distinguish especially significant natural features within the landscape and maintain their aesthetic quality through policy protections. Goal COS-12 Policies COS-P12.1 Deny applications for development that would destroy unique and irreplaceable natural features, such as distinctive rock formations.* COS-P12.2 Require redesign of project components that negatively impact viewsheds or the visual quality of the area.* COS-P12.3 Prohibit development within 100 vertical feet of the top of designated scenic ridges and within 50 vertical feet of other visually prominent ridgelines. Exceptions may be considered Goal COS-12 Protected natural features with high scenic value, such as visual landmarks, major ridges, prominent hillsides, and stands of mature trees. Page 297Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -37 FIGURE COS-10 SCENIC RESOURCES Page 298Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 7 -38 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element on existing legal lots where no other feasible building sites exist, and for infrastructure that requires high-elevation siting, such as wind turbines, communications towers, and water tanks. When siting buildings or infrastructure on or near ridges is unavoidable, require appropriate measures, such as screening, undergrounding, or camouflaging to mitigate visual impacts.* COS-P12.4 Preserve the scenic qualities of hillsides by encouraging designs that are sensitive to a site’s topography and prohibiting unnecessary grading and vegetation removal. COS-P12.5 Require restoration of natural contours and vegetation after grading and other land disturbances.* COS-P12.6 Prohibit extreme topographic modification, such as filling canyons or removing prominent hilltops. Exemptions may be considered for landfills, mining operations, and public or semi-public projects that necessitate such modifications.* COS-P12.7 Support preservation and enhancement of natural and human-made features that contribute to the scenic quality of the landscape and viewshed along designated scenic routes, and discourage projects that interfere with public views of those features. COS-P12.8 Require a visual impact analysis for projects with potential to significantly impact public views along designated scenic routes.* COS-P12.9 Enable flexibility in the design of projects in scenic corridors and support innovative solutions to protect views and visual quality. Actions COS-A12.1 Amend County Ordinance Code Division 814 – Slope and Hillside Development to convert the requirements from being a combining district to design and development standards related to building envelopes, building massing, colors, materials, grading, draining, and erosion control. COS-A12.2 Adopt design guidelines to preserve views, vistas, and defining natural features along designated scenic routes. MINERAL RESOURCES Mining in Contra Costa County dates to the 1850s, when coal fields were discovered north of Mount Diablo. Today, mining activities focus on construction aggregate (crushed rock, sand, and sandstone). Two rock quarries near Clayton and a sand quarry near Byron annually produce Page 299Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -39 hundreds of thousands of tons of construction aggregate that is used for public infrastructure and private construction projects throughout Northern California. High-quality sand from Byron is also used in glass manufacturing, including bottles for California wineries. Mineral extraction in Contra Costa County therefore is an important component of the regional economy. Conflicts between mining and urban uses throughout California led to passage of the Surface Mining and Reclamation Act of 1975 (SMARA). SMARA established policies for conservation and development of mineral lands and contains specific provisions for the classification of mineral lands by the State Geologist. SMARA requires all cities and counties to incorporate mapped designations approved by the State Mining and Geology Board (SMGB) in their general plans. These designations include lands categorized as Mineral Resource Areas (MRAs), the most significant of which contain mineral resources of regional or statewide significance. The county contains regionally significant MRAs, which are shown in Figure COS-11. Goal COS-13 Policies COS-P13.1 Protect valuable mineral resources by prohibiting incompatible projects and land uses (i.e., those that would directly or indirectly interfere with extraction, processing, or transportation of mineral resources) within the MRAs identified in Figure COS-11. COS-P13.2 Encourage compact design and layout for mineral resource processing areas, preserving as much land as possible for buffering between these areas and adjacent land uses. COS-P13.3 For residential subdivisions within one mile of the MRAs depicted in Figure COS-11, require deed disclosures indicating the presence of the mineral resource and explaining potential disturbances (e.g., noise, dust, heavy truck traffic) associated with mineral extraction activities.* COS-P13.4 Require applications for new or expanded quarrying operations adjacent to Mount Diablo State Park to include an analysis of potential impacts to the park’s natural features, including viewsheds, and operations.* COS-P13.5 Ensure that quarry reclamation plans, including bonding requirements, are maintained in compliance with SMARA. Actions COS-A13.1 Update County Ordinance Code Chapter 88-11 – Surface Mining and Reclamation, as necessary to maintain consistency with SMARA. Goal COS-13 Continued economic viability of mineral extraction operations while minimizing land use conflicts and environmental impacts. Page 300Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 7 -40 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element FIGURE COS-11 MINERAL RESOURCE AREAS Page 301Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -41 ENERGY RESOURCES Contra Costa County has long been an energy producer. Coal mining began in the 1850s, as indicated previously. The first petroleum refinery in the Bay Area opened in Rodeo in 1896 and the county has historically been home to a small oil and natural gas production industry. However, energy production in Contra Costa County is evolving as reliance on fossil fuels decreases and the State enacts more aggressive policies to combat climate change. In recent years, the State has increased support for transitioning to cleaner- burning biofuels through investments in technology, infrastructure, and production. Biofuels, including biomethane, biodiesel, and gasoline and diesel fuels derived from renewable sources instead of petroleum, can reduce reliance on traditional fuel sources, improve air quality, and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Two former petroleum refineries in the county have already begun converting their operations from refining crude oil to processing cleaner biofuels. Today, most of the electricity generated in the county is from renewable sources, like wind and solar. The California Energy Commission designated the Altamont Pass area, including the Byron Hills portion of eastern Contra Costa County, as an area with high wind potential, as shown in Figure COS- 12. In the early 1980s the private sector responded to that designation and federal and State tax incentives by moving rapidly into the wind energy business as a secondary use on agricultural land. Those first windfarms, which were inefficient and environmentally destructive, have since disappeared. Two modern windfarms with a generating capacity of 116.2 megawatts (MW) now operate in the county. In 2017, the County received a grant from the California Strategic Growth Council to study the potential for renewable energy generation within its jurisdiction. The study estimated that 2,600 to 4,600 MW could be generated, with solar accounting for the vast majority (up to 4,410 MW, more than 75 percent of which is in existing urban areas). In 2020 the County adopted its Solar Energy Facilities Ordinance and designated rural areas in East County as potentially suitable for large-scale commercial solar energy development, as shown on Figure COS-12. The Solar Energy Facilities Ordinance regulates commercial solar energy facilities (i.e., facilities generating electricity for off-site use, usually for sale on the wholesale energy market) and provides a simplified permitting process for facilities on rooftops and parking canopies in commercial and industrial areas. The County also supports installation of solar energy systems generating electricity for on-site use through a low-cost, expedited permit process. Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) and MCE are the primary electricity providers for Contra Costa County. Most of the electricity consumed in the county is generated from large hydroelectric, solar, and wind sources, as indicated in the following graph. Page 302Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 7 -42 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element FIGURE COS-12 WIND AND SOLAR ENERGY RESOURCE AREAS IN RURAL AREAS Page 303Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -43 Wind turbines generate power in East Contra Costa County near Byron. The State and Contra Costa County are moving towards reducing or eliminating natural gas use in existing and new buildings and transitioning to a clean energy economy. The County adopted an all-electric ordinance in 2022 requiring that all new residential, retail, office, and hotel buildings use electricity as the sole source of energy for space heating, water heating, cooking appliances, and clothes-drying appliances; natural gas and propane plumbing is prohibited. The County and regional utilities also provide rebates and programs to help make homes and businesses more resource efficient through energy audits, building retrofits, and opportunities to transition to a renewable electricity provider. The County continues to pursue opportunities for reducing overall energy use and increasing reliance on renewable sources, such as converting municipal and other wastes to energy resources (e.g., methane). In December 2015 the County adopted a Climate Action Plan, which is the County’s strategic approach to reducing GHG emissions from sources throughout the unincorporated area. The CAP identifies County programs and actions to decrease energy use, improve energy efficiency, develop renewable energy, reduce vehicle miles traveled, increase multi-modal travel options, expand green infrastructure, reduce waste, and improve the efficiency of government operations. The CAP also forecasts the County’s GHG emissions and sets reduction targets and strategies. As a document that is integral to implementation of the General Plan, the CAP was updated in parallel with this General Plan. Goal COS-14 Policies COS-P14.1 Implement Climate Action Plan strategies to improve energy efficiency and conservation, promote carbon-free energy sources, and reduce energy-related GHG emissions.* COS-P14.2 Partner with regional and State agencies (e.g., California Public Utilities Commission, California Energy Commission, and ABAG/MTC) to support energy efficiency and renewable energy planning efforts. Goal COS-14 Increased generation of and reliance on renewable, sustainable, and zero-carbon energy and reduced energy use. Page 304Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 7 -44 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element COS-P14.3 Support distributed electricity generation, including development of microgrids, renewable energy sources, storage capacity, and associated technologies. Encourage these throughout urban areas, and in nonurban areas when significant environmental impacts can be avoided or successfully mitigated. COS-P14.4 For residential subdivisions within two miles of the wind resource area depicted in Figure COS-12, require deed disclosures indicating the presence of the wind resource area and explaining potential disturbances (e.g., noise, shadow/flicker) associated with wind turbines. COS-P14.5 Support development of energy recovery projects (e.g., methane recovery from landfills and wastewater treatment plants). COS-P14.6 Support efforts to convert existing buildings to be low-carbon or carbon neutral. COS-P14.7 Encourage installation of battery storage systems in new and existing buildings, especially buildings with solar energy systems and buildings that provide essential community services. COS-P14.8 Design and construct new County facilities to be zero net energy to the extent feasible.* COS-P14.9 Work with energy service providers and the Bay Area Regional Energy Network to encourage property owners to participate in weatherization, education, rate incentive, and other programs and measures to improve energy efficiency in existing buildings. COS-P14.10 Require replacement and new water heaters and space heating and cooling systems to be electric if the building electric panel has sufficient capacity in accordance with Bay Area Air Quality Management District Regulation 9, Rule 4, and Regulation 9, Rule 6. Actions COS-A14.1 Amend County Ordinance Code Chapter 88-14 – Oil and Gas Drilling and Production to: (a) Prohibit new and expanded oil and gas production wells in the following: i. Sensitive ecological areas, such as wetlands and habitat for rare, threatened, endangered, or special-status species. Page 305Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -45 ii. Areas subject to 100-year flood hazards or sea- level rise, as shown in Figures HS-2 and HS-6 through HS-9. iii. Areas within 3,200 feet of sensitive receptors or urban land use designations unless project- specific exceptions are granted by the California Department of Conservation, Geologic Energy Management Division. (b) Restrict oil and gas drilling operations to agricultural zoning districts only. (c) Require a land use permit for all new and expanded oil and gas wells. (d) Require a reclamation plan for oil and gas well sites that includes bonding for site clean-up. (e) Include performance standards related to water quality, air quality, odors, noise, and aesthetics. In parallel, study the feasibility of amending the County Ordinance Code to prohibit development of new oil and gas wells and phase out existing oil and gas well operations. COS-A14.2 Amend County Ordinance Code Division 88 – Special Land Uses to consolidate Chapters 88-3 and 88-30 governing wind energy conversion systems and solar energy facilities, respectively, into a new renewable energy chapter, with added provisions related to microgrids and battery energy storage systems. COS-A14.3 Amend County Ordinance Code Chapter 88-3 – Wind Energy Conversion Systems to require that decommissioned wind farms be returned to a condition consistent with the natural environment in the area at the time of decommissioning, rather than a return to pre-project condition. The following issues must be specifically addressed: (a) Unnecessary and poorly constructed roads that are sources of erosion. (b) Remaining turbine foundations/footings and underground conduit. (c) Abandoned equipment yards, turbine components, and other debris. COS-A14.4 Consider adopting new or modified reach codes that exceed the California Building Standards Code to require the use of lower-carbon intensive energy sources, to achieve higher feasible levels of energy conservation and efficiency, and to achieve lower feasible levels of GHG emissions. COS-A14.5 Maintain, update, publicize, and enforce the County Ordinance Code Title 7 – Building Regulations amendment requiring new residential buildings, hotels, offices, and retail to be all-electric. Evaluate the feasibility of including other building types as appropriate. COS-A14.6 Create a County policy or program to facilitate making existing residential and nonresidential buildings more energy- efficient and powered by carbon-free energy. Page 306Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 7 -46 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element COS-A14.7 Create a detailed roadmap to convert existing homes and businesses to use low- or zero-carbon appliances. The roadmap should include steps to support converting buildings to rely on low- or zero-carbon energy using an equitable framework that minimizes the risk of displacement or significant disruptions to existing tenants. COS-A14.8 Evaluate options for incentivizing and requiring additions and alterations to be energy efficient and to achieve the lowest feasible levels of GHG emissions, including upgrades to the building electric panel as needed. COS-A14.9 Ensure County-led and supported retrofit programs incentivize and prioritize conversion of buildings built before 1980 and emphasize assistance to owners of properties that are home to very low-, low-, and moderate- income residents or located in Impacted Communities, as permitted by available funding. COS-A14.10 Support legislative efforts to establish a green bank able to equitably finance sustainability projects, including renewable energy, energy efficiency, and green infrastructure, for residential and commercial customers. See the Transportation Element for policies and actions to reduce energy consumption in the transportation sector and the Health and Safety Element for policies and actions related to climate change and power line infrastructure and planned power shutoffs in relation to wildfire hazards. CONSERVATION, OPEN SPACE, AND WORKING LANDS ELEMENT PERFORMANCE MEASURES To track progress in achieving the major goals of this Element, every five years, the County will collect data to assess its performance against the following measures. Progress will be tracked relative to the prior performance review and the baseline year of 2024. Based on the findings from the five-year review, the County may adjust policies, actions, or the approach to implementing them to improve performance, as needed. • Increased acreage of land designated Resource Conservation or Parks and Recreation. • Increased gross value of agricultural production. • Increased acreage of land acquired for conservation of ecological resources. • Reduced per-capita water consumption. • Reduced per-capita electricity and natural gas consumption. Page 307Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -1 8 PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES ELEMENT Contra Costa County is committed to providing a high quality of life for its residents. This commitment includes providing public services, infrastructure, and facilities that are accessible to and benefit all county residents, while also working with outside service providers to accomplish those same goals. Although the Public Facilities and Services Element is not explicitly required by State law, the topics addressed here are an integral part of the County’s overall planning strategy and a basic consideration in setting growth and development policy. The following nine sections are included in this Element: • The General Public Facilities and Services section includes policy guidance to support coordination, financing, and equitable distribution of public facilities and services that promote the economic, social, physical, and environmental wellbeing of residents. • The Water and Wastewater section includes policy guidance to provide safe, resilient, and environmentally responsible water and wastewater services to meet existing and future needs. • The Drainage and Flood Risk section includes policy guidance to support effective and resilient natural drainage systems and flood-risk management infrastructure. • The Sheriff, Fire, and Emergency Medical Service section includes policy guidance to provide efficient and effective public safety and emergency services, with emphasis on improvements to the physical environment that support a safe and accessible public realm. • The Solid Waste Management section includes policy guidance aimed at reducing waste, providing equitable and sustainable waste management services, and reducing illegal dumping. • The Parks and Recreation section includes policy guidance to develop an integrated and accessible park and trail system with a focus on improving access to parks for Impacted Communities. • The Schools section includes policy guidance to support a strong and diverse education system from primary school through higher education facilities. • The Libraries section includes policy guidance to expand library services to support access to information and educational opportunities for residents of all ages. • The Public Facilities and Services Element Performance Measures describe how the County will track its progress in achieving some of the major objectives expressed in this Element. This General Plan highlights policies and actions that address four major themes that serve as a framework for the Plan. For the reader’s ease, policies and actions related to these themes are identified throughout the General Plan using the following icons. The policies and actions related to each theme are also compiled in Appendix A. See Chapter 1 for more information about each theme. Page 308Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 8 -2 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element Community Health Environmental Justice Economic Development Sustainability GENERAL PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES Coordinated Facilities and Services The Crockett Community Services District provides bocce courts at Rithet Park. A complex array of County departments and districts and outside agencies serve the diverse needs of Contra Costa residents and businesses. In addition to the County and incorporated cities and towns, this includes: • Community services districts providing police, recreation, water, wastewater, and solid waste services. • Fire protection districts. • Healthcare districts. • Park and recreation districts. • School districts and a community college district. • Water districts, irrigation districts, and sanitary sewer districts providing water and wastewater services. • Reclamation districts and a municipal improvement district providing flood protection and levee and drainage maintenance services. The Contra Costa Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) regulates the jurisdictional boundaries of all cities and special districts, affecting which agencies provide services to a given area. Properties inside city limits receive certain services from the incorporated city, such as law enforcement. Fire protection, parks and recreation, and various other services may be provided by the city or a special district, or a combination of both. Other countywide services, like health and human services, hazardous materials response, and criminal justice, are provided by the County. As such, the County operates at many levels, simultaneously providing mandated countywide services and local services to unincorporated areas, and coordinating with the activities of State agencies, cities, and regional and local special districts. The County adopts a new budget annually that sets priorities and addresses operating costs. In September 2022, the Board of Supervisors adopted the Capital Facilities Master Plan, outlining a 20-year vision for transforming County facilities to improve customer service delivery and support County Page 309Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -3 employees providing those services, and guiding future capital facilities budgeting and planning decisions. Through Senate Bill (SB) 244, State law requires that general plans identify Disadvantaged Unincorporated Communities (DUCs) and evaluate and address any infrastructure or fire service deficiencies in those communities to support public health and safety. For counties, DUCs are defined as an inhabitated community with 10 or more dwelling units in close proximity, or where 12 or more registered voters reside, that is located outside of a city sphere of influence and has an annual median household income that is 80 percent or less of the statewide median. The County conducted a DUC analysis in 2023 and found that parts of Rodeo, Crockett, and Bethel Island meet the DUC criteria. Policy guidance related to infrastructure and service needs in these communities is provided in the respective Community Profiles, located in the Stronger Communities Element. Goal PFS-1 Policies PFS-P1.1 Consider potential effects on the physical, social, cultural, and recreational needs of the surrounding community when developing new County facilities. PFS-P1.2 Locate new County facilities that involve regular community access in places that are easily accessible by public transit, walking, and micromobility, to the greatest extent possible. PFS-P1.3 Encourage, and whenever possible require, public agencies to locate, design, construct, and operate their facilities in a manner that complements and avoids conflict with adjacent land uses. PFS-P1.4 Encourage, and whenever possible require, co-location and undergrounding of new utility infrastructure, such as transmission and distribution lines, fiber-optic cables, and pipelines, in existing rights-of-way to minimize visual, operational, and environmental impacts on the community. Actions PFS-A1.1 Streamline processes for special districts to establish new facilities that support their core mission and are consistent with General Plan goals and policies. PFS-A1.2 Update the Capital Facilities Master Plan, Capital Road Improvement and Preservation Program, Parks Capital Improvement Program, and similar plans and programs as needed to maintain consistency with this General Plan, particularly its provisions related to environmental justice. Goal PFS-1 Coordinated public facilities and services that support the economic, social, health, and environmental well- being of the county and its residents. Page 310Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 8 -4 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element PFS-A1.3 Notify and request comments from utility service providers on development applications.* PFS-A1.4 Upon each update to the Housing Element, perform an analysis of infrastructure needs and deficiencies in DUCs and explore funding mechanisms that could make extension of needed services and facilities feasible.* Just and Equitable Facilities and Services An uneven distribution of amenities along race and class lines reflects long legacies of racism and discrimination in how public facilities and services are provided. Environmental justice efforts seek equitable access to community investments, and SB 1000 requires that local agencies prioritize public investments in Impacted Communities, as discussed further in the Stronger Communities Element. Figure PFS-1 shows the locations of existing community facilities countywide in relation to Impacted Communities. The policy guidance in this section seeks to combat historic discrimination by promoting equitable distribution of and access to public facilities and services, and prioritizing improvements in Impacted Communities. This includes the types of facilities shown on Figure PFS-1, as well as technological resources like broadband internet to promote success in the Information Age and equitable code enforcement to promote healthy and safe neighborhoods. Goal PFS-2 Policies PFS-P2.1 Ensure County facilities and services meet the needs of all users, regardless of age, ability, race, ethnicity, culture, language, gender identity, or economic status. PFS-P2.2 Pursuant to SB 1000, as part of the County’s annual budgeting process, prioritize investments in public facilities, infrastructure, and services that benefit Impacted Communities and respond to their needs, particularly those needs identified in their Community Profiles. PFS-P2.3 Coordinate with service providers (e.g., water, wastewater, transit, and recreation districts) and advocate for proper planning, maintenance, and implementation of services and infrastructure to ensure efficient service delivery in Impacted Communities. Goal PFS-2 Public facilities, infrastructure, and services that meet the needs of, and are accessible to, residents of Impacted Communities. Page 311Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -5 FIGURE PFS-1 COMMUNITY SERVICES FOR IMPACTED COMMUNITIES Page 312Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 8 -6 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element PFS-P2.4 Continue to provide contact information for the Code Enforcement Section of the Department of Conservation and Development (DCD) on the front page of the DCD website. Maintain clear, simple lines of communication for residents to reach the County regarding code enforcement and nuisance complaints, and ensure equitable, prompt responses. PFS-P2.5 Continue to prioritize and adequately fund code enforcement and clean-up of illegal dumping on public and private property in Impacted Communities. Actions PFS-A2.1 Establish funding and financing mechanisms in Impacted Communities to provide and maintain community-desired public facilities and services. These could be County- or community-initiated, and include business improvement districts, green benefit districts, and similar mechanisms. PFS-A2.2 Establish an entity within the County tasked with ensuring that County services and facilities in Impacted Communities are coordinated, prioritized, and delivered efficiently and effectively. PFS-A2.3 Implement and maintain urban greening and green infrastructure, such as sustainable/green street projects, in Impacted Communities. PFS-A2.4 Regularly assess Code Enforcement responses and Public Works maintenance practices to ensure equitable implementation. Prioritize resources to keep Impacted Communities safe and clean, emphasizing enforcement actions on issues identified in Community Profiles. PFS-A2.5 Work with the Contra Costa Crisis Center to provide Code Enforcement contact information through the 211 Contra Costa information service. PFS-A2.6 Pursue public-private partnerships that will improve access to reliable, fast internet and make digital resources available in Impacted Communities at affordable prices. Funding Services and Infrastructure Financing capital improvements and public services within Contra Costa County is complex, given the large number of agencies involved. As urban growth continues throughout the county, demands for public services and infrastructure will increase, which can place higher fiscal burdens on service providers. Meanwhile, many service providers lack adequate funding for ongoing maintenance and eventual replacement of existing infrastructure, Page 313Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -7 much of which was constructed in the decades immediately following World War II. Special financing mechanisms may be required to support major new development. These could include County Service Areas, community facilities districts, or other benefit assessment districts that fund services through a special tax on properties within the service area. New development is also subject to the County’s impact fee programs, which apply fees to development projects proportionate to the cost of providing public facilities and services to the development. Streetscape improvements like this project along Fred Jackson Way in North Richmond are provided by the County’s Public Works Department. Goal PFS-3 Policies PFS-P3.1 Coordinate with LAFCO, infrastructure and service providers, and cities to ensure infrastructure and services are reliable and provided in a cost-effective and equitable manner.* PFS-P3.2 Require new development to pay its fair share of public improvement costs for infrastructure, facilities, maintenance, and services based on the proportionate cost of serving the project.* PFS-P3.3 When new development cannot adequately be served by existing infrastructure and facilities or through the County’s impact fee programs, require a public facilities financing plan that identifies the necessary public improvements and establishes an equitable plan to pay for and develop the required improvements.* PFS-P3.4 When communities request levels of County services that exceed the countywide standard, require creation of (or annexation into) a County Service Area, community facilities district, or equivalent mechanism to fund the supplemental service costs. Allow exceptions for enhanced services in Impacted Communities if alternative funding sources can be identified.* Goal PFS-3 Adequate, fair, and cost-effective funding for public facilities, infrastructure, and services. Page 314Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 8 -8 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element PFS-P3.5 When new development needs ongoing infrastructure maintenance that exceeds County standards or existing funding levels, require creation of or annexation to a County service area, community facilities district, benefit assessment district, or other special funding unit to pay for those maintenance activities.* PFS-P3.6 When adopting, amending, and imposing impact fees, community benefits agreements, and developer exactions, consider the effects of such fees and exactions upon individual project economics, housing supply, economic development, and the County’s broad goals and objectives related to overall community development. If gap funding can be identified, consider fee reductions or exemptions for projects in Impacted Communities that are consistent with the community objectives identified in their Community Profile. Actions PFS-A3.1 Implement an equitable and standardized approach to property tax sharing with cities during the annexation process. PFS-A3.2 Regularly update development impact fees to ensure new development pays its fair share of infrastructure and service costs.* WATER AND WASTEWATER Water service consists of transmission of raw water from its source to a treatment facility, treatment, and then distribution through a network of pressurized pipes. Water service in unincorporated urban parts of Contra Costa County is provided by special districts and some cities, as shown in Figure PFS-2. The major water service providers in the unincorporated county are East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) and Contra Costa Water District (CCWD). • EBMUD provides treated water to approximately 1.4 million customers in western Contra Costa County and portions of Central County. EBMUD brings water from the Mokelumne River watershed in the Sierra Nevada through three 81-mile aqueducts to the East Bay. Water is stored in a network of reservoirs, including Briones, Lafayette, San Pablo, and San Leandro in Contra Costa and Alameda Counties prior to treatment. • CCWD provides treated water to approximately 500,000 customers in the urbanized parts of central Contra Costa County that are not serviced by EBMUD, as well as some eastern parts of the county. CCWD’s water is sourced from the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta via the 48-mile Contra Costa Canal. CCWD also stores water at Los Vaqueros Reservoir in East County, southwest of Byron. Properties outside of a water service district rely on individual groundwater wells or private water systems. Wastewater service consists of transmission of wastewater to a treatment facility, treatment, and then disposal of the wastewater and residual waste solids. As shown in Figure PFS-3, many special districts are responsible for wastewater service in unincorporated Contra Costa County. The largest wastewater service providers include Central Contra Costa Sanitary District Page 315Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -9 FIGURE PFS-2 WATER SERVICE DISTRICTS Page 316Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 8 -10 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element FIGURE PFS-3 WASTEWATER SERVICE DISTRICTS Page 317Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -11 (CCCSD), which serves most of Central County, and the West Contra Costa Sanitary District (WCCSD), which serves much of West County. Rural areas outside district boundaries rely on on-site wastewater treatment systems to treat sewage. Goal PFS-4 Policies PFS-P4.1 Support the goal of regional self-sufficiency as part of new water system planning efforts, where all regions in the state are required to implement a variety of local water supply options and institute conservation and reuse programs to reduce reliance on exports from the Delta. PFS-P4.2 Encourage water service providers to require separate service connections and meters for recycled water use or where large quantities of water are used for special purposes, such as landscape irrigation. PFS-P4.3 Support the State Water Resources Control Board’s efforts to eliminate small public water systems in new development. Allow such systems only for projects that cannot feasibly be connected to a public water system.* PFS-P4.4 Partner with water service providers to ensure continuity of service and provide financial relief to Impacted Communities if prices rise during drought conditions. PFS-P4.5 Require new development to demonstrate the availability of a safe, sanitary, and environmentally sound water delivery system with adequate capacity.* PFS-P4.6 Require new development to demonstrate the availability of a safe, sanitary, and environmentally sound wastewater treatment system with adequate capacity.* PFS-P4.7 Support CCWD’s planned Phase 2 Expansion of Los Vaqueros Reservoir. See the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element for policies and actions related to water quality, conservation, and management. DRAINAGE AND FLOOD RISK Unlike engineered domestic water and sanitary sewer systems, the pattern of stormwater drainage is determined by water's natural tendency to flow downhill. Consequently, much of the drainage system serving the county consists of natural drainage swales, ditches, and watercourses. Water ultimately drains into San Francisco and San Pablo Bays, or the Delta. Goal PFS-4 Water and wastewater services that meet current and future needs in a safe, resilient, and environmentally responsible manner. Page 318Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 8 -12 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element Flood control infrastructure includes levees, drainage channels, and other structures designed to prevent creeks, the Delta, and other water bodies throughout Contra Costa County from overflowing their banks and causing floods. Conventional flood control infrastructure often incorporates concrete and riprap lined channels, detention basins, and other highly engineered solutions. Increasingly, communities and agencies are transitioning to “green infrastructure,” which focuses on using natural drainage swales, permeable pavement, and rain gardens to filter and absorb stormwater. The Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District (CCCFCWCD), which is a dependent special district governed by the County Board of Supervisors, is responsible for regional flood control projects. Incorporated cities and the CCCFCWCD have developed regional drainage plans in many areas to guide developers in implementing new drainage systems as part of development projects, and to provide the basis for local and federal flood control projects. On-site drainage infrastructure is provided and/or improved by developers as part of the land development process. Levees are especially important components of the county’s flood control infrastructure. Figure PFS-4 depicts Contra Costa’s levee system, most of which is owned and operated by public agencies such as reclamation districts. Similar to dams, levees hold back water and protect lower-lying areas from inundation. In Contra Costa County, many of these areas are at or below sea level. Levees protect critical infrastructure, including EBMUD’s water aqueducts, highways, railroads, natural gas pipelines and storage facilities, electrical transmission lines, and more. Many levees in the Delta region are unstable; they were constructed over 100 years ago on land that is settling due to subsidence and were not built to provide long-term protection. Since 1980, 27 Delta islands have been partially or completely flooded due to levee failure. Sea level rise, increased storm frequency and intensity, and higher flows from greater rainfall and less snowfall as a result of climate change will continue threaten levee stability and effectiveness. The California Department of Water Resources (DWR) implements the Central Valley Flood Protection Plan (CVFPP) to improve flood risk management in the Central Valley and the Delta. The CVFPP seeks to integrate and improve ecosystem functions concurrently with flood management investments and projects. It also calls for local agencies to protect urban communities (defined as communities with at least 10,000 residents) in the Central Valley from a 200-year flood, which is a flood that has a 0.5-percent probability (1 in 200) of occurring in any year. In unincorporated Contra Costa County, only Discovery Bay meets the criteria for 200-year flood protection. The capacity of Grayson Creek in Pacheco has been increased to protect against flooding Goal PFS-5 Natural systems and flood-risk management infrastructure that can handle stormwater year-round and adapt to new and changing conditions. Page 319Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -13 FIGURE PFS-4 LEVEE CENTERLINES Page 320Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 8 -14 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element Goal PFS-5 Policies PFS-P5.1 Support public and private efforts to improve protection against flooding, subsidence, and inundation, especially projects that achieve 200-year flood protection or better, factoring in anticipated sea-level rise, in areas of the county covered by the CVFPP. PFS-P5.2 Partner with responsible parties, public and private, to ensure ongoing funding exists for maintenance and rehabilitation of flood management facilities and structures (e.g., levees, pump stations, canals, channels, and dams), particularly those that do not meet adopted State or federal flood- protection standards.* PFS-P5.3 Allow for future height increases to private levees protecting inland areas from tidal flooding and sea-level rise by requiring rights-of-way and setbacks to be sufficiently wide on the levee’s upland side and prohibiting new structures from being constructed on top of or immediately adjacent to the levee. PFS-P5.4 Support material stockpiling and equipment staging for emergency levee repair, especially in the western Delta. PFS-P5.5 Encourage new development to participate in programs that ensure ongoing maintenance of natural watercourses to maintain their flood carrying capacity and habitat values. PFS-P5.6 When developing new or revised regional drainage and flood management plans, including plans to protect against sea-level rise, incorporate adequate setbacks and alternative drainage system improvements that provide aesthetic, recreational, and environmental benefits. Improvements should avoid structural modifications to watercourses and preserve riparian habitat and floodplains, and convert engineered drainage systems to more natural systems, when and where possible. In areas at risk of temporary or permanent inundation from sea-level rise, ensure that improvements can continue to provide adequate protection for the projected level of inundation by 2100 or the expected operational life of the project, whichever is later.* PFS-P5.7 Incorporate green infrastructure into new and retrofitted flood-control and streetscaping projects, including replacing existing asphalt and other hardscapes with green infrastructure, as feasible.* PFS-P5.8 Encourage developers of properties along transit corridors and in commercial areas to combine their private stormwater treatment facilities with green infrastructure on the adjoining street frontage. Page 321Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -15 PFS-P5.9 Encourage public participation in design processes for major flood control and sea-level-rise resiliency projects to ensure that these facilities are context-sensitive and provide multiple public benefits whenever possible. Actions PFS-A5.1 Identify existing developed areas where drainage maintenance issues exist and coordinate with each affected community to consider creating a benefit assessment district or similar local funding mechanism to pay for improvement and maintenance needs.* PFS-A5.2 Coordinate with responsible parties, public and private, to develop a flood risk management plan for the levee systems protecting the unincorporated county that: (a) Identifies the entities responsible for operation and maintenance of the levees. (b) Determines the anticipated flood levels in the adjacent waterways and the level of protection offered by the existing levees along the waterways. (c) Establishes a long-term plan to upgrade the system as necessary to provide at least a 100-year level of flood protection, and 200-year level of flood protection where required. (d) Considers the worst-case situations of high tides coupled with sea-level rise and storm-driven waves. (e) Protects beneficial uses of San Francisco Bay and the Delta and their water. (f) Prioritizes designs that foster riparian habitat while containing floodwaters, such as by using more natural materials, landforms, and vegetation, rather than concrete channels and other conventional flood- control infrastructure. (g) Encourages multipurpose flood-management projects that, where feasible, incorporate recreation, resource conservation, preservation of natural riparian habitat, and scenic values of waterways. (h) Takes a holistic approach to flood-risk management so that new infrastructure does not simply transfer flooding impacts from one property or location to another. (i) Considers flood and tidal impacts to existing brownfields, especially adjacent to shorelines. (j) Includes provisions for updates to reflect future State- or federally mandated levels of flood protection. PFS-A5.3 Develop watershed management plans incorporating best management practices that slow, spread, and sink water runoff to flatten the hydrograph (i.e., water flow over time) where erosion is a concern, while also enhancing wildlife habitat and recreation opportunities where feasible.* PFS-A5.4 Establish programs for development projects alongside natural watercourses that ensure regular maintenance of the waterway, including debris removal, erosion control, and conservation and restoration of native species.* Page 322Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 8 -16 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element PFS-A5.5 Coordinate with the Contra Costa County Mosquito and Vector Control District to identify and remedy areas with ongoing drainage problems to reduce disease risk from stagnant water. See the Health and Safety Element for policies and actions related to flood hazards and sea-level rise and the Parks and Recreation section later in this Element for policies and actions related to secondary recreational uses of flood- control infrastructure. SHERIFF, FIRE, AND EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICE Law enforcement services in Contra Costa County are provided by several agencies at various levels of government. In the unincorporated county, community policing is provided primarily by the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, with special districts like the Kensington Police Protection and Community Services District providing service in certain areas. Beyond police services, careful design of the built environment can also help prevent crime and increase the sense of safety. Research has shown that the certainty of being caught is a highly effective deterrent to criminal activity. Design elements that enhance visibility of public spaces, such as adequate lighting and windows and porches that encourage residents to have “eyes on the street,” can create safer environments. The policy guidance in this section emphasizes improvements to the physical environment that support an accessible and visible public realm. Additional policy guidance in the Stronger Communities Element addresses engagement with Impacted Communities to ensure the designs for public realm improvements allow residents and visitors to feel safe and welcomed. Fire protection services in unincorporated Contra Costa County are provided by six fire protection districts, as shown in Figure PFS-5. All fire protection agencies within the county have signed mutual-aid agreements to provide assistance to neighboring agencies. The firefighting capabilities of these agencies are further augmented by personnel and equipment from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. The Contra Costa Fire Protection District operates this station in rural Briones Valley. Page 323Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -17 FIGURE PFS-5 FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICTS Page 324Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 8 -18 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element Contra Costa County Health Services contracts with the Contra Costa Fire Protection District, Moraga-Orinda Fire Protection District, San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, and American Medical Response to provide emergency ambulance service. Emergency response calls for the unincorporated county are fielded by the Office of the Sheriff’s Communications Center. Public safety response time standards provide a means to ensure that the community will remain safe as the county develops. The County strives to achieve the following public safety standards: • Sheriff Response Times: Average law enforcement response time of five minutes or less for Priority 1 calls (where a threat to people may exist). • Fire Response Times: o Four minutes or less response time for the arrival of the first engine company at a fire suppression incident, 90 percent of the time. o Six minutes or less response time for the arrival of the second engine company at a fire suppression incident, 90 percent of the time. o Eight minutes or less response time for an initial full alarm assignment at a fire suppression incident that does not involve a high-rise building, 90 percent of the time. o Ten minutes and 10 seconds or less response time for an initial full alarm assignment at a fire suppression incident that involves a high- rise building, 90 percent of the time. • Emergency Medical Services Response Times: o Four minutes or less response time for the arrival of a unit with a first responder, 90 percent of the time. o Eight minutes or less response time for the arrival of an advanced life support company, 90 percent of the time. Goal PFS-6 Policies PFS-P6.1 Require new development to support effective law enforcement and fire protection by providing a safe and accessible public realm for all. PFS-P6.2 Design, improve, and maintain public spaces to maximize visibility and safety through appropriate lighting and landscaping. PFS-P6.3 During the discretionary review process for projects with potential to increase demand on fire protection services, consult with the applicable fire district to identify any upgrades to fire protection facilities, infrastructure, and equipment needed to reduce fire risk and improve emergency response.* Goal PFS-6 Efficient and effective law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical services for all communities. Page 325Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -19 Actions PFS-A6.1 Engage community members, law enforcement, and local leaders, and amend the County Ordinance Code to incorporate standards for new development that support a safe, accessible public realm for all through environmental design.* See the Health and Safety Element for policies and actions related to wildfire hazards and emergency response and the Transportation Element for policies and actions related to safe streets. SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT In Contra Costa County, the private sector is mainly responsible for solid waste collection and disposal, and the County is responsible for planning, administration, and facility approval. The County, Joint Powers Authorities (JPAs), and certain special districts enter into franchise agreements with private waste haulers to provide collection services. The County oversees solid waste management for about half of the unincorporated population, which is currently serviced by four different franchise agreements. Disposal facilities, which are shown in Figure PFS-6, are privately owned. Given the many entities involved, public and private, effective solid waste management requires significant coordination. Reducing waste in the first place, along with repairing or reusing items and materials, are important strategies for overall sustainability. The California Integrated Waste Management Act (CIWMA) requires cities and counties to adopt and implement waste diversion programs for source reduction, recycling, and composting, and requires that each county adopt a Countywide Integrated Waste Management Plan (CoIWMP); the County’s CoIWMP was adopted in May 1993. In addition to the CIWMA, the State continues to enact laws addressing solid waste and recycling. The County reports to the State annually regarding compliance with existing laws, including diversion goals and waste reduction measures. Waste that is not diverted is deposited into landfills, where it breaks down slowly and emits methane, a potent greenhouse gas (GHG), contributing to climate change. Methane emissions from landfills are a major source of the GHG emissions generated in the county. Landfill operators already capture a large proportion of this methane, which can be used to generate energy or converted to a liquid fuel that can be used to power vehicles and other equipment. There are opportunities for landfill operators to expand the methane collection infrastructure at the county’s landfills, capturing more methane and reducing the county’s GHG emissions. Illegal dumping is a large-scale pervasive problem in Contra Costa County and a high-priority issue because of its immediate and long-term adverse effects on health and safety, community assets, community pride, economic development, and natural habitats. Illegal dumping hot spots are widespread throughout the county, occurring on rural roads and agricultural land, in suburban neighborhoods, and in urban environments affecting many communities regardless of socio-economic status. However, Impacted Communities are disproportionately affected by illegal dumping. In 2018, the County formed an interdepartmental team and began implementing strategies to combat illegal dumping as part of the Contra Costa County Illegal Dumping Initiative. Strategies are grouped into four categories: educate, prevent, clean up, and enforce; they include a public outreach campaign to educate residents about dumping, street signs placed near dumping zones with information on how to report dumping activity, removal of abandoned recreation vehicles, and dedicated law enforcement to investigate dumping crimes. Page 326Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 8 -20 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element FIGURE PFS-6 SOLID WASTE PROCESSING AND DISPOSAL FACILITIES Page 327Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -21 Illegal dumping in Bay Point harms community character, health, economy, and natural resources. Goal PFS-7 Policies PFS-P7.1 Coordinate with private solid waste collection and disposal companies, cities, and other appropriate agencies to plan solid waste management facilities that are safe, effective, and efficient.* PFS-P7.2 Coordinate with other jurisdictions to ensure that solid waste management, including solid waste resource recovery (e.g., reduce, reuse, recycle, compost, and waste-to-energy), is carried out in accordance with the CoIWMP and meets strict environmental standards.* PFS-P7.3 Strive to provide equivalent solid waste collection services and rates across each unincorporated community under County franchise control. PFS-P7.4 Ensure that new development complies with the requirements of the CoIWMP.* PFS-P7.5 Require new residential and commercial uses to provide adequate space for trash, recycling, and organics collection, as well as edible food recovery when applicable.* PFS-P7.6 Encourage new technologies for organics processing consistent with SB 1383, the Short-Lived Climate Pollutants Reduction Strategy of 2016. PFS-P7.7 Support expansion of recycling programs and efforts to locate convenient, accessible recycling centers in Impacted Communities. Goal PFS-7 Safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible solid waste diversion and reduction practices and management. Page 328Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 8 -22 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element PFS-P7.8 Consistently use a multiprong approach (i.e., educate, prevent, clean up, enforce) to combat illegal dumping. PFS-P7.9 Prohibit new landfills in ecologically sensitive areas, and require that new landfills be located, designed, and operated to avoid adverse impacts to surrounding land uses, including by limiting the area of landfill activities; limiting hours of operation; providing safe and appropriate transportation routes; maintaining site security; identifying associated off-site feeder transfer stations; grading to blend the landfill disturbance area with surrounding topography; covering refuse daily; and mitigating noise, odor, litter, and visual impacts.* PFS-P7.10 Require that new landfills provide the following: (a) An appropriate leachate collection and recovery system. (b) An approved erosion-control and drainage plan. (c) Geotechnical studies, including stability analysis, to determine the most appropriate engineering design. (d) A habitat enhancement plan that provides for at least a 3:1 replacement for lost significant habitat.* PFS-P7.11 Require new landfills to be designed and operated so that upon decommissioning they can be repurposed for other uses, such as renewable energy facilities, recycling and organics recovery operations, outdoor recreation facilities, and open space. PFS-P7.12 Require that new and expanded landfill operations significantly reduce GHG emissions to meet or exceed State targets to the extent feasible, and work toward carbon- neutral landfills. PFS-P7.13 Extend the life of landfills by continually striving to: (a) Reduce the amount of solid waste generated. (b) Reuse and recycle as much solid waste as possible. (c) Utilize the energy and nutrient value of solid waste (i.e., waste-to-energy and composting). (d) Properly dispose of remaining solid waste.* PFS-P7.14 Discourage direct public access to landfills and instead direct the public to transfer stations. Base the need for new or expanded transfer stations on economics, the need to mitigate traffic impacts, and the need to inspect refuse for hazardous materials and recyclables. PFS-P7.15 Ensure transfer stations provide adequate capacity to accommodate recovery of recyclables and organic materials and encourage organics processing.* Page 329Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -23 PFS-P7.16 Include a condition of approval in land use permits for solid waste facilities requiring review for compliance with permit conditions every three to five years.* Actions PFS-A7.1 Study the potential benefits of combining the County’s solid waste collection franchise agreements, or adjusting the boundaries of franchise service areas, to improve efficiency and consistency. PFS-A7.2 Streamline the permitting process for composting, organics processing, and repair/reuse facilities. PFS-A7.3 Partner with community organizations and solid waste franchise collection haulers to maximize participation in community clean-up days and residential on-call garbage pick-ups in Impacted Communities. Encourage community participation by holding these events in conjunction with other community events whenever possible. PFS-A7.4 Work with other counties, cities, and community members to establish public/private partnerships to combat illegal dumping. PFS-A7.5 Install signage and increase education, monitoring, enforcement, and rapid cleanup to discourage illegal dumping, especially in Impacted Communities and rural areas. PFS-A7.6 Use the County’s legislative platform process and partner with other public agencies throughout the state to propose and support legislation to combat illegal dumping. PARKS AND RECREATION Contra Costa County is an outdoor enthusiast’s delight. Whether it is a peaceful nature walk through Carquinez Strait Regional Shoreline, an exciting hike around historic Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve, fishing at a local reservoir, or a fun day out with family and friends at a neighborhood park, the county offers something for residents of all ages and abilities. In this region, one can explore the beautiful landscapes, appreciate breathtaking views, enjoy outdoor activities, and learn about the local flora and fauna. This wide variety of activities encourages physical activity, learning, and socialization, while also providing opportunities for people to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors. Quality parks and recreational opportunities can also contribute to economic development by attracting visitors and promoting tourism. Overall, parks and recreation are essential to creating healthy, vibrant communities where individuals and families thrive. Page 330Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 8 -24 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element The Carquinez Strait Regional Shoreline provides trail recreation opportunities for residents and visitors. (Community-submitted photo) Most county residents are fortunate to have access to a variety of parks and trails in unincorporated areas, as shown on Figures PFS-7 and PFS-8: • State and regional parks provide a broad range of recreational opportunities, such as hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, fishing, swimming, camping, group sports, and ecological and cultural education. This category includes Mount Diablo State Park and Marsh Creek State Historic Park, which are owned and managed by the California Department of Parks and Recreation, as well as many regional parks owned and managed by the East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD). In addition, EBMUD and CCWD offer recreational opportunities, such as hiking and fishing, as secondary uses within the watersheds of their reservoirs. The US National Park Service also operates the Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial at Military Ocean Terminal Concord, John Muir National Historic Site in Martinez, and Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site just outside Danville. • Local parks are indispensable elements of our neighborhoods and communities. They serve as focal points where people can exercise and enjoy leisure time together, and include sports courts, playgrounds, playfields, or other amenities. Local parks in unincorporated areas are typically owned and maintained by the County or a special district, such as a recreation and park district or community services district. The local park system is often augmented by similar facilities on school campuses. In some areas, private organizations such as homeowners’ associations maintain parks for their communities, sometimes allowing public access. • Trails are essentially linear parks. They provide safe connections between residential neighborhoods, parks, schools, and other destinations. Because of their connectivity, they also act as alternative commute routes in some communities, though typically they’re restricted to pedestrian, bicycle, and micromobility use. Major regional trails in Contra Costa County include portions of the San Francisco Bay Trail, a 500-mile network of trails along San Francisco and San Pablo Bays that is managed collaboratively by several agencies, including the Metropolitan Transportation Commission/Association of Bay Area Governments, and EBRPD; portions of the 50-mile Carquinez Strait Scenic Loop Trail that is managed by the Bay Area Ridge Trail Council; and the 26-mile Iron Horse Regional Trail, 13.5-mile Contra Costa Canal Regional Trail, and 19-mile Delta de Anza Regional Trail managed by EBRPD. The county is also crisscrossed by innumerable smaller, local trails, many of which are unpaved and informal. While not shown on Figure PFS-7, numerous parks within incorporated cities and towns are also available to residents of unincorporated areas. Page 331Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -25 FIGURE PFS-7 FEDERAL, STATE, REGIONAL, AND LOCAL RECREATION LANDS Page 332Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 8 -26 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element FIGURE PFS-8 TRAILS NETWORK Page 333Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -27 The County coordinates with agencies at all levels of government to provide and maintain parks and recreational programs in unincorporated communities. The County administers and regularly updates the Parks Capital Improvement Program, which allocates funding to park projects and maintenance based on community priorities and budget availability. Park acquisition and development are also funded in part through the County’s Parks Impact Fee, which is a fee charged to new residential projects. The fee amount is based on the project size, location, and type(s) of housing proposed. Access to parks and open space is an important environmental justice issue. Impacted Communities, which are described in the Stronger Communities Element, often lack access to the range and quality of facilities that support a high quality of life and positive public health outcomes. This can be a significant driver of poor physical and mental health. It is important to correct this inequity by investing in Impacted Communities and ensuring that each resident has access to space for outdoor physical activity. Ambrose Park provides play areas for children in Bay Point. Park standards provide a means to ensure that parks and recreation facilities are provided as the county develops. The County strives to provide 3 acres of local parks per 1,000 residents. This standard is an important tool for requiring new development to provide facilities when parks to serve new residents are lacking nearby. Goal PFS-8 Policies PFS-P8.1 Support development of a variety of local amenities that meet a diverse range of recreational needs, such as ballfields, all-abilities playgrounds, tot lots, spraygrounds, adult fitness courses, gymnasiums, swimming pools, sport courts, passive parks, pocket parks, urban gardens, and trails. PFS-P8.2 Provide a local park within a safe 10-minute walk for all residents in urban communities or within a 5-minute drive for residents in suburban communities, as indicated in Figures PFS-9 and PFS-10.* Goal PFS-8 An easily accessible, integrated system of high-quality parks and trails to meet the needs of all residents. Page 334Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 8 -28 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element FIGURE PFS-9 PUBLIC PARK AND OPEN SPACE WALKABILITY FOR URBAN COMMUNITIES Page 335Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -29 FIGURE PFS-10 DRIVE TIMES TO PUBLIC PARKS AND OPEN SPACE FOR SUBURBAN COMMUNITIES Page 336Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 8 -30 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element PFS-P8.3 Increase access to diverse, high-quality parks, green space, recreational facilities, trails, and natural environments for residents of Impacted Communities, including through multiple transportation modes. Partner with other agencies and non-governmental organizations to obtain funding, and design and maintain these facilities to offer a safe and comfortable environment for residents of all ages and abilities. PFS-P8.4 Prioritize and promote recreational activity programs and opportunities in Impacted Communities. PFS-P8.5 Whenever possible, require projects subject to the Park Dedication or Park Impact Fee Ordinances to develop park and recreation amenities listed in, or added to, the County’s Park Capital Improvement Plan. Park Impact fees or in-lieu fees should be assessed when the County determines developer improvements are not feasible.* PFS-P8.6 Support expanded access to recreation opportunities by working with other agencies to co-locate parks and trails with public facilities, such as schools and utility easements, with Impacted Communities prioritized. PFS-P8.7 Design recreational facilities to complement the natural features of the area, including topography and vegetation, whenever appropriate. PFS-P8.8 Support expanded public access to the waterfront and development of water-related recreational opportunities, such as fishing and boating. PFS-P8.9 Support development of a comprehensive and interconnected network of trails, including intra- and inter- regional trails like the San Francisco Bay Trail, Carquinez Strait Scenic Loop Trail, Great California Delta Trail, and Marsh Creek Corridor Trail, that provides public access to shorelines, ridges, and other scenic areas, connects residents with open space and nature, and links urban areas with parks and other recreational facilities. PFS-P8.10 Encourage use of abandoned railroad rights-of-way for trails or other public purposes and participate in collaborative planning processes to determine the best use of abandoned rail corridors. PFS-P8.11 Support local community groups and volunteer organizations in efforts to improve and maintain local parks, trails, and other public spaces, such as through an Adopt-A-Park/Trail program, especially in Impacted Communities. Actions PFS-A8.1 Create an internal County entity that works across departments and non-County agencies to coordinate Page 337Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -31 planning and funding of unincorporated local parks, recreational facilities, and trails. PFS-A8.2 Coordinate with recreation and park districts and cities to prepare a parks and open space needs assessment for all unincorporated communities, prioritizing Impacted Communities. Integrate the results of the assessment into a Parks Master Plan and the Parks Capital Improvement Program and implement improvements that address barriers to outdoor physical activity, such as inadequate infrastructure and safety concerns. PFS-A8.3 Annually update park dedication and in-lieu fee requirements based on the Consumer Price Index for All Customers, All Items for the San Francisco-Oakland-San Jose Metropolitan Area to accommodate for increases or decreases in development costs. Conduct a fee study at least once every 10 years to reflect changes in the cost of land, local park and recreational needs, and development conditions.* PFS-A8.4 Maintain up-to-date maps showing quarter-mile and half- mile walking distances and five-minute driving times to public parks. PFS-A8.5 Study the feasibility of developing an equestrian trail network throughout the county’s rural areas. SCHOOLS Good schools are the building blocks of vibrant, healthy communities. Communities with good schools are great places to raise families, and a good education system not only attracts new residents, but also encourages young people to remain in the community as they start their own families. Good schools are also economic development drivers, as businesses are attracted to communities where employees will have access to quality education for their families. The 18 school districts providing K-12 public education that serve Contra Costa County are shown on Figure PFS-11. Verde Elementary School in North Richmond is one of many schools operated by the West Contra Costa Unified School District. Page 338Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 8 -32 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element FIGURE PFS-11 SCHOOL DISTRICTS Page 339Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -33 Colleges and universities also play an important role in community life. Aside from the direct contributions they make to the local economy as large employers, post-secondary educational institutions provide critical workforce development and training through partnerships with local businesses and community groups. Post-secondary public education in Contra Costa County is offered at California State University, East Bay – Concord Campus and three community colleges: Contra Costa College in San Pablo; Diablo Valley College in Pleasant Hill, with a satellite campus in San Ramon; and Los Medanos College in Pittsburg. Numerous public and private colleges and universities, including prestigious institutions like the University of California, Berkeley and Stanford University, are also within 50 miles of Contra Costa County, providing county residents with extraordinary opportunities to pursue higher education. Goal PFS-9 Policies PFS-P9.1 When reviewing new development proposals, coordinate with affected school districts to ensure adequate school capacity is or will be available, school sites are designated or dedicated if necessary, and adequate access is provided.* PFS-P9.2 Encourage dedication of school sites through density transfer of the dedicated acreage or other incentives. PFS-P9.3 Encourage school districts to use school sites for multiple community purposes, such as recreation, and to locate new schools in conjunction with and/or adjacent to parks and trails. PFS-P9.4 Oppose efforts by school districts to locate new schools outside the Urban Limit Line. PFS-P9.5 Support efforts to enhance and expand access to higher education. Actions PFS-A9.1 Amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning and Title 10 – Public Works and Flood Control to regulate public school siting and construction of off-site improvements related to public schools, to the extent allowable under Government Code Sections 53094 and 53097. Ensure these amendments include requirements for roadway improvements, including complete streets and multimodal roadway conditions. See the Stronger Communities Element for policies and actions related to workforce development. Goal PFS-9 Primary, secondary, and higher education facilities that serve the varied educational needs of all county residents. Page 340Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 8 -34 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element LIBRARIES Libraries are some of the oldest and most important public institutions. They provide access to knowledge and enhance public literacy. The Contra Costa County Library works in partnership with the incorporated cities and towns to operate 26 libraries across the county, offering robust programming for all ages, preschool to adults, including English as a Second Language (ESL), Science, Technology, and Mathematics (STEM) courses for kids, technology and computer help, interactive educational performances, arts and crafts events, book clubs, free lunches for children, and other programs. Residents can also reserve group study rooms and meeting rooms for educational, cultural, and community-related meetings, programs, and activities. Local libraries provide access to numerous education resources and programs. Goal PFS-10 Policies PFS-P10.1 Prioritize expansion of library services in Impacted Communities. PFS-P10.2 Locate and design library facilities to provide access to the greatest number of people. Ensure they are sited in areas with broadband internet and close to public transit. PFS-P10.3 Provide adequate funding for maintaining and improving library operations.* Actions PFS-A10.1 Develop library service and facility standards, identify standards not being met, and seek necessary resources to achieve those standards.* Goal PFS-10 Library services that meet the informational and social needs of county residents. Page 341Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -35 PFS-A10.2 Adopt a library impact fee to ensure new development mitigates its impact on library services.* PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES ELEMENT PERFORMANCE MEASURES To track progress in achieving the major goals of this Element, every five years, the County will collect data to assess its performance against the following measures. Progress will be tracked relative to the prior performance review and the baseline year of 2024. Based on the findings from the five-year review, the County may adjust policies, actions, or the approach to implementing them to improve performance, as needed. • More dollars invested per capita on public improvements in Impacted Communities than in other parts of the county. • Fire suppression incidents responded to with the first engine company within four minutes or less, with the second engine company within six minutes or less, and with the initial full alarm assignment within eight minutes or less (or 10 minutes and 10 seconds if it involves a high-rise building), 90 percent of the time. Emergency medical service incidents responded to with a unit with a first responder within four minutes or less and with an advanced life support company within eight minutes or less, 90 percent of the time. • Increased percentage of homes within a 10-minute walk of a local park. • At least 3 acres of local parkland per every 1,000 residents. • Reduced number of illegal dumping incidents. Page 342Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 8 -36 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element This page intentionally left blank. Page 343Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -1 9 HEALTH AND SAFETY ELEMENT State law requires every general plan in California to address natural and human-caused hazards and dangers and identify the potential risk of death, injuries, property damage, and economic and social dislocation from fires, floods, earthquakes, and other events. Contra Costa County is at risk from a number of natural and human-caused hazards, and climate change is likely to make many of these more damaging for people, buildings and structures, ecosystems, and other important community assets. This Element focuses on improving public health and safety and reducing the risk of hazards. It is organized into the following 11 sections: • The Air Quality section includes policy guidance supporting clean air and promoting community and environmental health equitably throughout the county. • The Greenhouse Gases section includes policy guidance to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Contra Costa County in support of statewide carbon neutrality and other GHG emissions reduction goals. • The Climate Change, Resilience, and Adaptation section includes policy guidance promoting community resilience to climate change hazards. • The Flood Hazards and Sea-Level Rise section includes policy guidance to mitigate flood and sea-level rise hazards. • The Wildfire Hazards section includes policy guidance to minimize wildfire risks to residents, infrastructure, and natural resources. • The Extreme Heat section includes policy guidance supporting resilience to an increasing number of extreme heat events per year. • The Management of Hazardous Materials and Hazardous Waste section includes policy guidance to protect communities from past and present activities involving the use of hazardous materials and hazardous waste. • The Seismic and Geologic Hazards section includes policy guidance to protect residents, property, and infrastructure from seismic and geologic hazards, including earthquakes, liquefaction, and landslides. • The Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Evacuation Routes section includes policy guidance to maintain emergency response and recovery procedures, including effective evacuation capacity and capability, that protect human life and allow communities and economies to function during emergencies. • The Noise and Vibration section includes policy guidance to maintain an acceptable level of noise and vibration in communities. • The Health and Safety Element Performance Measures describe how the County will track its progress in achieving some of the major objectives expressed in this Element. Appendix B provides additional information about many of these hazards. Page 344Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 9 -2 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element This General Plan highlights policies and actions that address four major themes that serve as a framework for the Plan. For the reader’s ease, policies and actions related to these themes are identified throughout the General Plan using the following icons. The policies and actions related to each theme are also compiled in Appendix A. See Chapter 1 for more information about each theme. Community Health Environmental Justice Economic Development Sustainability Delta flooding, as occurred on Bradford Island in 1983, is a significant hazard in Contra Costa County. (Credit: California Department of Water Resources) AIR QUALITY Countywide Air Quality As basic and critical as it is to healthy living, clean air is not guaranteed in any community. Air quality in Contra Costa County is primarily affected by ozone pollution from vehicle exhaust and particulate matter from industrial centers and diesel trucks. Higher temperatures can increase surface ozone concentrations, which is associated with negative health outcomes, including reduced lung function, pneumonia, asthma, cardiovascular diseases, and premature death. Ozone concentrations are projected to increase in most places that already experience high levels, such as East County, by 2040. During cooler months, near-ground particulate matter is trapped in the air for longer periods of time due to an inversion layer, especially in the northern and eastern parts of the county where particulate matter rates are already high. Higher rates of particulate matter increase the likelihood of cardiovascular and asthma-related health complications. Contra Costa County is committed to protecting human health and the environment by meeting State of California and federal standards for all air pollutants. The California and National Ambient Air Quality Standards (CAAQS and NAAQS, respectively) are the air quality levels considered to provide a margin of safety to protect public health and welfare. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) regulates and enforces air quality laws, rules, and regulations set by the State. Local air districts are delegated the authority to regulate local stationary sources of air pollution to improve air quality. The local air district in the San Francisco Bay Area is the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD). Page 345Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -3 For over 60 years, BAAQMD has been tasked with improving air quality in the Bay Area and reducing exposure to air pollution, including “criteria air pollutants” like ozone, particulate matter, and toxic air contaminants (TACs), all of which are dangerous to human health. BAAQMD monitors and reduces air pollution throughout the region to achieve the air quality standards established by the State and federal governments. As of 2023, the San Francisco Bay Area Air Basin, which encompasses Contra Costa County and the rest of the Bay Area, is not meeting the State and federal standards for ozone and particulate matter. Improving air quality requires constant oversight and can involve significant expenditures and changes in behavior. Since the late 1980s, BAAQMD has required major stationary sources of air pollution (e.g., petroleum refineries and other heavy industrial sources) to reduce emissions to the maximum achievable level. In 2004, BAAQMD initiated its Community Air Risk Evaluation (CARE) program to reduce TAC exposure from stationary and mobile sources (i.e., cars, trucks, trains, and airplanes) in the Bay Area, and has more recently provided related planning assistance through its Planning Healthy Places guidebook. The Planning Healthy Places guidance maps communities with higher concentrations of air pollution, shares best practices to reduce health risks associated with air pollution, and encourages jurisdictions to address and minimize potential local air pollution issues early in the land use planning process, with technical guidance for implementation. Additionally, BAAQMD’s 2017 Clean Air Plan, prepared in cooperation with the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG)/Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC), includes several control strategies for reducing air pollution from new and existing stationary sources and vehicle travel. Freeways and other high-traffic roads, such as State Route 4, are a major source of air pollution. (Community-submitted photo) Goal HS-1 Policies HS-P1.1 Coordinate air quality planning efforts with State and regional agencies, such as CARB, BAAQMD, and ABAG/MTC. Goal HS-1 Air quality that supports community and environmental health. Page 346Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 9 -4 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element HS-P1.2 Participate in emission and exposure reduction, public education, engagement, outreach, and other programs that promote improved air quality, focusing on Impacted Communities. HS-P1.3 Require new development to adhere to BAAQMD’s Planning Healthy Places guidance when local conditions warrant.* HS-P1.4 Require new industrial development to locate significant pollution sources as far away from sensitive receptors as possible.* HS-P1.5 Require new sources of air pollution that will generate significant new air quality impacts or expose sensitive receptors to substantial increases in harmful emissions of TACs to prepare a Health Risk Assessment that identifies appropriate mitigation consistent with BAAQMD California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Air Quality Guidelines, based on the findings of the Health Risk Assessment.* HS-P1.6 Require that any mitigation of air quality impacts occur on- site to the extent feasible to provide the greatest benefit to local residents. For mitigation that relies on offsets, require that the offsets be obtained from sources as near to the project site as possible. If the project site is within or adjacent to an Impacted Community, require offsets/mitigation within that community unless determined infeasible by the County.* HS-P1.7 Require construction activities that involve large grading operations to implement additional construction measures identified in BAAQMD’s CEQA Guidelines to reduce air pollutant emissions.* HS-P1.8 Require new or expanded commercial and industrial projects exceeding 25,000 square feet of gross floor area to be near zero-emissions (NZE) operations, including the facilities themselves and the associated fleets. Require all necessary measures, such as the following, to achieve NZE: (a) Reduce on-site energy consumption and increase on-site energy generation and energy storage. (b) Provide adequate on-site ZE vehicle-capable parking for all anticipated truck traffic to prevent idling and off-site queuing. (c) Provide electrified loading docks with receptacles allowing plug-in of refrigerated trailers. (d) Use heavy-duty trucks that are model year 2014 or later and expedite a transition to ZE trucks by establishing a clear timeline for electrification of trucks as they become commercially available. Ensure contracts with motor carriers include air quality incentives or requirements, such as providing incentives to fleets that meet United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) SmartWay standards or requiring use of ZE or near NZE trucks. Page 347Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -5 (e) Use a “clean fleet” of delivery vehicles as they become commercially available, but no later than 2025. (f) Use ZE yard equipment, such as forklifts, pallet trucks and jacks, and stackers. (g) Implement practices to control and remove fugitive dust and other contaminants from paved areas. Uses with fewer than five vehicles domiciled on-site are exempt from this policy.* HS-P1.9 Prohibit nonessential diesel engine idling countywide and nonessential idling of all vehicles within 100 feet of sensitive receptors.* HS-P1.10 Support efforts to provide HVAC upgrades and portable clean air filters to persons who live in Impacted Communities and other areas burdened by disproportionate exposure to poor air quality. Actions HS-A1.1 Consult with BAAQMD and community stakeholders and prepare an Air Quality Community Risk Reduction Plan that applies to areas with high levels of cancer risk, providing a comprehensive strategy to protect community members from the negative health effects of air pollution. HS-A1.2 Consult with BAAQMD and community stakeholders and amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to create an Air Pollution Exposure Overlay Zone around freeways that requires new construction in these areas to install enhanced ventilation systems and other strategies to protect people from respiratory, heart, and other health effects associated with breathing polluted air. HS-A1.3 Consult with BAAQMD and community stakeholders and amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to include an Industrial-Sensitive Receptor Interface Overlay Zone applied to areas where residential land uses and other sensitive receptors interface or directly abut heavy industrial land uses. In the overlay zone, require industrial uses to reduce pollution and employ strategies to mitigate air quality, noise, vibration, odor, light, visual, and safety impacts on nearby sensitive receptors. In addition, require new sensitive receptors to install enhanced ventilation systems and implement other strategies, paid for by neighboring sources of pollution to the extent possible, to protect residents from health and quality of life impacts. HS-A1.4 Consult with BAAQMD and community stakeholders and amend County Ordinance Code Title 7 – Building Regulations to include a clean construction ordinance that requires projects to implement extra measures to reduce emissions at construction sites in or near places that are already overburdened by air pollution, such as Impacted Communities. Page 348Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 9 -6 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element HS-A1.5 Adopt an ordinance at least as stringent as the State’s maximum idling law, and coordinate with CARB and law enforcement to achieve compliance. HS-A1.6 Develop a plan to provide convenient and accessible clean air refuges during times when outdoor air quality is deemed unhealthy. See the Transportation Element for policies and actions related to air quality associated with vehicular emissions. Air Quality in Impacted Communities Poor air quality tends to disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, such as children and people who are elderly, chronically ill, unsheltered, or on a limited income. Often these populations live in proximity to high-volume transportation corridors (e.g., freeways, railroads) or stationary sources of toxic air emissions. Despite the federal, State, and BAAQMD air quality standards and requirements discussed above, there are still communities in the Bay Area that are exposed to significantly more air pollution than others, and these communities are often home to higher-than-average proportions of vulnerable populations, low-income households, and people of color. As explained in the Stronger Communities Element, Impacted Communities are unincorporated communities that are disproportionately impacted by pollution and negative health outcomes. In Contra Costa County, they are located near refineries and other large industrial facilities, major freeways and high-traffic roads, distribution centers, and railroad lines. Figure HS-1 displays rates of diesel particulate matter emissions, or exhaust from diesel engines, in unincorporated Census tracts relative to the rest of the state, and demonstrates how communities near heavy industry and freeways experience the highest rates of diesel particulate matter pollution. CARB recently established the Community Air Protection Program in response to Assembly Bill (AB) 617, through which BAAQMD must implement community air monitoring and community emissions reduction programs for communities most affected by air pollution. As of Fall 2023, BAAQMD, in partnership with community members in Richmond, San Pablo, and portions of unincorporated Contra Costa County, is completing the AB 617 Path to Clean Air (PTCA) Community Emissions Reduction Plan (CERP) to reduce emissions and exposure for people in these communities. Additional communities in the county may benefit from this program in future years. Emissions from heavy industrial facilities disproportionately affect Impacted Communities. (Credit: California Department of Water Resources) Page 349Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -7 FIGURE HS-1 DIESEL PARTICULATE MATTER RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE Page 350Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 9 -8 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Goal HS-2 Policies HS-P2.1 When evaluating health risk impacts of projects in Impacted Communities, use an excess cancer risk of 6.0 per million and a non-cancer (acute and chronic) hazard index greater than 1.0 as thresholds for finding that the project could cause a cumulatively considerable contribution and a significant impact.* HS-P2.2 Increase the tree canopy on public property, especially in Impacted Communities and areas with a high heat index, by prioritizing funding for new street tree planting and maintenance. HS-P2.3 Support protection, restoration, and enhancement of natural landscapes in and near Impacted Communities to improve air quality and community health. Actions HS-A2.1 Partner with community members and regulatory agencies to prepare a community-scale plan for reducing and mitigating air pollutant emissions and industrial hazards, such as pipeline risks, accidents, potential water or soil contamination, and impacts to sensitive ecological resources for each Impacted Community, or group of Impacted Communities, as appropriate. Require future projects to demonstrate consistency with those plans. HS-A2.2 Coordinate with community members, BAAQMD, and other regulatory agencies to facilitate AB 617 citizen-led programs, including data collection, monitoring of pollution exposure, and identification and implementation of solutions in Impacted Communities. Consider future General Plan and Zoning Code amendments as needed to support BAAQMD in meeting AB 617 objectives. HS-A2.3 Conduct a housing condition survey in Impacted Communities to identify units likely requiring upgrades to provide adequate protection from toxic releases. Based on the survey’s findings, target outreach to provide information about weatherization and similar improvement programs. HS-A2.4 Coordinate with BAAQMD to determine where to focus a targeted permit inspection program in Impacted Communities to help ensure enforcement of air quality permits. Goal HS-2 Healthy air quality for all communities, so no community bears the disproportionate burden of environmental hazards and health risks. Page 351Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -9 HS-A2.5 Prepare a tree master plan for the county that emphasizes planting of low-maintenance native tree species and includes quantified goals and tracking methods, including mapping the tree canopy, and prioritizes planting in Impacted Communities and along safe routes to schools. See the Extreme Heat section of this Health and Safety Element and the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element for additional policies and actions related to tree preservation and planting. GREENHOUSE GASES Scientific consensus is that human activity involving the use of fossil fuels has resulted in an ever-accelerating increase in the concentration of heat- trapping gases, known as GHGs, in Earth’s atmosphere (termed the “greenhouse effect”). In California, communities are now adapting to the resulting climate change stressors: warmer annual average temperatures, changes in precipitation patterns, sea-level rise, and a reduction in snowpack. Since 2005, the County has implemented various measures to address climate change, including efforts to quantify GHG emissions, prioritize climate change adaptation in local government, and use nature- based solutions to achieve GHG emissions reductions. In 2020, the Board of Supervisors declared that climate change “threatens the long-term economic and social well-being, health, safety, and security of the county, and that urgent action by all levels of government is needed to immediately address this climate emergency.” To support its GHG emissions reduction goals, the County strives for net- carbon neutrality through a gradual transition to renewable and carbon-free fuels, resource conservation, sustainable practices, and other approaches. Solar panels help reduce reliance on natural gas and electricity providers and increase resilience for homeowners. Page 352Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 9 -10 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element The goals, policies, and actions in this section focus on reducing GHG emissions throughout the county. The County’s Climate Action Plan, one of the tools for implementing this General Plan, provides more specific strategies and actions to achieve Contra Costa County’s GHG emission reduction goals. Goal HS-3 Policies HS-P3.1 Prioritize implementation of the Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan to reduce GHG emissions from community-wide sources and adapt to changing climate conditions. HS-P3.2 Facilitate carbon-neutral development projects and communities that support a circular economy, net-zero- emission modes of transportation, reliable and renewable energy resources, energy-efficient buildings, zero waste, water efficiency and conservation, green infrastructure, soil conservation, and a system of natural and working lands that support carbon sequestration and climate resilience. HS-P3.3 Require new development projects using the Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan to streamline their environmental review of GHG emissions, as permitted by CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5, to demonstrate consistency with the Climate Action Plan and incorporate applicable GHG reduction and climate change adaptation measures.* Actions HS-A3.1 Update the Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan as needed to maintain consistency with CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5(b), other State and regional guidance, and best practices. Future updates must include: (a) Inventories of GHG emissions in the unincorporated county. (b) GHG reduction targets for 2030 and 2045 at a minimum. (c) Forecasts of GHG emissions for the unincorporated county consistent with growth assumptions of this General Plan. (d) GHG reduction measures and strategies with quantifiable outcomes. (e) Climate adaptation and resilience strategies to ensure the county’s communities can respond to changing climate conditions. Goal HS-3 Communities that reduce existing and anticipated GHG emissions in support of statewide carbon neutrality goals and other GHG reduction targets. Page 353Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -11 (f) An implementation and monitoring program to track the County’s progress toward achievement of the GHG reduction targets. (g) A community and stakeholder engagement program for Climate Action Plan preparation and implementation. HS-A3.2 Study the feasibility of establishing a low-carbon concrete requirement for all new construction and retrofit activities and consider additional strategies to reduce embedded carbon in construction materials. The intent is to determine what the County can and should do to support or exceed State requirements for net-zero emissions for cement use by 2045. HS-A3.3 Regularly review and revise the County’s purchasing and contracting programs as necessary to ensure consistency with the County's sustainability and GHG reduction goals. Every Element of this General Plan includes policies and actions that will contribute to reduced GHG emissions and a more sustainable future. CLIMATE CHANGE, RESILIENCE, AND ADAPTATION According to the California Climate Action Team—a committee of State agency secretaries and the heads of agencies, boards, and departments, led by the Secretary of the California Environmental Protection Agency—even if actions could be taken to immediately curtail GHG emissions, the potency and long atmospheric lifetimes of emissions that have already built up, combined with the inertia of the Earth’s climate system, could still produce significant additional climate change hazards. Consequently, some effects from climate change are now considered unavoidable. To sustain the quality of life communities have come to expect, the County now must consider how to counteract potential threats to public health, buildings and infrastructure, economic drivers, biological resources, and key community services. In 2020, the County released the Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment, which analyzes how the changing climate can harm residents, buildings, ecosystems, natural resources, and more. Table HS-1 lists climate change-related hazards of concern identified in the Vulnerability Assessment. The goals, policies, and actions in this section address climate change through a resilience and adaptation lens. Individual hazards are addressed though policy guidance in subsequent sections of this Element. Goal HS-4 Policies HS-P4.1 When considering development proposals and land use changes, treat susceptibility to hazards and threats to health and human life as primary considerations. Goal HS-4 Resilient communities that are prepared for, responsive to, and recover from hazards created or worsened by climate change. Page 354Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 9 -12 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element TABLE HS-1 CLIMATE CHANGE HAZARDS OF CONCERN IN CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Hazard Climate Change-Induced Impacts Agricultural Pests and Diseases Disease-carrying pests are most active during warmer months, so the threat of infection or infestation rises with temperatures, thereby harming crops and rangelands. Air Quality Higher temperatures can increase surface ozone and particulate matter concentrations, which are associated with reduced lung function, pneumonia, asthma, cardiovascular diseases, and premature death. In addition, smoke from wildfires can increase air pollution levels, which can exacerbate many of the same health conditions as extreme heat. Bay Shoreline Flooding Rising sea levels mean that shoreline flooding from high tides and wave run-up can be more severe and frequent, damaging buildings, infrastructure, and important economic and environmental assets located in low-lying areas. Drought Changes in precipitation patterns are expected to cause more frequent and intense droughts statewide, reducing water supplies for homes, businesses, industrial centers, and agriculture. Extreme Heat The number of extreme heat days is expected to increase dramatically due to increases in annual average temperature, which can cause heat stress in humans, animals, and plants not adapted to these conditions. Power lines, roadways, and other infrastructure also may fail under higher temperatures. Flooding The frequency and intensity of floods is expected to increase with climate change, damaging buildings and infrastructure, and disrupting local economies and services. Floods can also exacerbate the growth of mold in indoor environments, threatening human health. Fog Tule fog (in East County) and coastal fog (in West County) are expected to decrease, which further increases temperatures and may have harmful effects on local ecosystems. Human Health Hazards Diseases carried by animals that are considered pests, such as mice and rats, mosquitos, and ticks are likely to increase, causing negative health outcomes for residents and visitors. Landslides and Debris Flows Landslides are expected to increase due to an increase in precipitation that can saturate the ground and wildfires that exacerbate slope instability. Severe Storms Severe storms, including heavy rainfall, high winds, and thunderstorms, may occur more often and become more intense than in the past. Sea-Level Rise As temperatures rise, sea levels increase globally and locally as a result of melting ice and warmer waters. Higher sea levels threaten buildings and infrastructure that may be permanently inundated in the Bay shoreline and Delta areas. Without intervention, sea-level rise could eventually necessitate movement and relocation of entire populations and communities. Wildfire Warmer temperatures, an increase in drought conditions, and greater prevalence of forestry pests and diseases are likely to create more ideal conditions for fires. Fire season is expected to occur at all times of the year, putting lives, buildings, and infrastructure at greater risk. Source: Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment, 2020. Page 355Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -13 HS-P4.2 Address the effects of climate change, particularly the increased frequency and intensity of hazards, during review of new development applications. HS-P4.3 Discourage new below-market-rate housing in High and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones, the Wildland-Urban Interface, and Alquist-Priolo Fault Zones. If below-market-rate housing must be constructed within these zones, require it to be hardened or make use of nature-based solutions to ensure it remains habitable to the greatest extent possible.* HS-P4.4 Prioritize efforts to protect Impacted Communities and other vulnerable populations from the impacts of climate change, including through improving community capacity and meaningfully involving community members in decision making. HS-P4.5 As climate conditions change, evaluate the feasibility of implementing adaptive land use strategies to help avoid repetitive threats to life and property. HS-P4.6 In hazard-prone areas, such as slopes exceeding 15 percent, mapped floodplains, High and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones, and Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zones, allow for decreased residential density, including below the minimum density requirement for the applicable land use designation, as the severity of risk increases.* Actions HS-A4.1 Update the capital project planning and budgeting processes to account for anticipated effects of climate change hazards on County capital investments, including buildings and infrastructure, by integrating either the Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment or the best-available climate science data related to impacts, risks, sensitivities, adaptive capacities, and vulnerabilities. FLOOD HAZARDS AND SEA-LEVEL RISE Flood Hazards Flooding occurs when the natural and built systems that normally contain water are overwhelmed or fail. Floods can be caused by heavy or prolonged rainfall, clogged drainage infrastructure, and in rare instances, a break in a dam, levee, water pipe, or water tank. The water can build up and wash into normally dry areas and cause significant harm to buildings, people, and habitats. Construction of impervious surfaces (e.g., buildings and pavement) and reclamation of Delta land dating back over a century has reduced natural stormwater absorption, increasing flooding potential. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), California Department of Water Resources (DWR), and United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) map areas at risk of inundation from a 100-year flood, which has a 1 percent chance of occurring in any year, and a 500-year flood, where the risk of flooding is 0.2 percent annually, as shown in Figure HS-2. These areas are primarily located in northern and eastern Contra Costa County and along creeks throughout the county. They are mostly along what FEMA designates as a “regulatory floodway,” which refers to the channel of a watercourse.. Page 356Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 9 -14 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-2 FLOOD HAZARD ZONES Page 357Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -15 Climate change will likely enlarge the area of the county that is at risk of flooding. Further changes to these flood zones are likely as land use patterns shift and improvements are made to flood-control systems and channels. In Figure HS-3, these flood hazard zones are overlaid with existing development to illustrate how existing land uses are at risk of flooding. As discussed in the Public Facilities and Services Element, DWR implements the Central Valley Flood Protection Plan (CVFPP), which calls for local agencies to protect urban communities (defined as communities with at least 10,000 residents) in the Central Valley from a 200-year flood (i.e., a flood that has a 0.5-percent probability of occurring in any year). Discovery Bay is the only unincorporated community meeting the CVFPP threshold for 200-year flood protection. There are no mapped 200-year flood zones in unincorporated Contra Costa County, but the 500-year flood zone can be used as a proxy in low-lying portions of East County (i.e., areas mainly at risk of flooding from the Delta). DWR has developed Urban Levee Design Criteria to measure the level of flood protection in urban and urbanizing areas that is necessary to withstand a 200-year flood, as required by the CVFPP. Figure HS-2 displays areas with reduced flood risk because of levees. As also discussed in the Public Facilities and Services Element, levees exist across the county, with many protecting agricultural and rural areas of East County. There are over 1,100 miles of earthen levees and revetments managed by the Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District and 13 reclamation districts in the county. Rudimentary levees along local creeks and streams, in many cases constructed by adjacent landowners, also protect small areas. Wetlands absorb excess water and reduce flood risk. (Community-submitted photo) Earthquakes or overtopping due to major storms can cause levees to fail. The county has historically faced flooding due to heavy precipitation events and levee failures. In 1973, 1980, 1982, 1983, 1986, 2004, and 2009, one or more Delta levees were breached or failed. Some islands in the Delta have been flooded two or three times since 1980, which will likely occur more frequently with stronger storm systems and higher tide levels. Flooding can also be induced by dam failure, which is caused by structural failure or deficiency associated with intense rainfall, prolonged flooding, earthquakes, landslides, or equipment malfunction. There are over 20 dams of significant concern in Contra Costa County and another six dams outside the county that have inundation areas extending into the county. Figure HS-4 displays areas at risk of flooding because of a dam failure. Although dam failures are very rare, they aren’t unprecedented. Complete failure of the St Page 358Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 9 -16 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-3 EXISTING DEVELOPMENT IN FLOOD ZONES Page 359Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -17 FIGURE HS-4 DAM INUNDATION AREAS Page 360Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 9 -18 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Francis Dam in 1928 killed over 400 people and destroyed several communities in Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. In 2017, over 180,000 people in several Northern California counties were evacuated when heavy rainfall caused partial failure of Oroville Dam’s main spillway. Each dam is required to have a comprehensive emergency action plan approved by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, and USACE and the California Division of Safety of Dams conduct inspections of all dams. Tsunamis, massive waves caused by offshore earthquakes, can severely damage property, take lives, disrupt emergency services, and obstruct roads through intense flooding. Figure HS-5 illustrates the areas that may be subject to tsunami inundation in Contra Costa County, which include shoreline areas along San Francisco Bay, San Pablo Bay, and a portion of the Carquinez Strait. Earthquakes with magnitudes below 6.5 are very unlikely to trigger tsunami, so it is a particularly rare phenomenon. The narrow opening of the Golden Gate Strait also protects much of the inner Bay Area shoreline from severe tsunami impacts. Nonetheless, the County considers susceptibility to tsunami when reviewing development proposals. A seiche is a wave that can occur in an enclosed or partially enclosed body of water, such as a reservoir, bay, or harbor. Seiches can be caused by a variety of factors, including changes in atmospheric pressure, wind, and seismic or geologic activity. When a seiche occurs, it can cause water levels to rise and fall rapidly, which poses a risk to boats, docks, and other structures in the affected area. Seiches can generate waves that can inundate areas around the affected water body, similar to a tsunami. Additionally, seiches occurring in a reservoir can cause overtopping of a dam and result in regional flooding. While seiches are a risk associated with earthquakes and tsunamis, it is unlikely that one would occur in the San Pablo or San Francisco Bays or in the reservoirs in Contra Costa County. Goal HS-5 Policies HS-P5.1 Prohibit urban development in areas designated 100- or 200- year (or 500-year when used as a proxy for the 200-year) floodplain, as shown on Figure HS-2, or in areas subject to increased flood hazards due to subsidence or other changes, unless appropriate mitigations to reduce flood risk to the standards of the Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973 or above are implemented.* HS-P5.2 Require flood-proofing of new and expanded buildings and structures in any area subject to flooding. Flood-proofing methods will be determined on a project-by-project basis by the Floodplain Manager, and may include, but not be limited to: (a) Anchoring to prevent flotation, collapse, or lateral movement. (b) Using flood-resistant construction materials. (c) Elevating building pads and habitable building floors above the base flood elevation plus required freeboard. Goal HS-5 Minimized risk of loss of life, injury, damage to property, and economic or social dislocations resulting from flood hazards. Page 361Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -19 FIGURE HS-5 TSUNAMI HAZARD AREAS Page 362Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 9 -20 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element (d) Providing adequate venting to allow for equalization of hydrostatic forces. (e) Employing any other construction methods and practices appropriate to minimize flood damage.* HS-P5.3 For any development project in a FEMA- or DWR-designated floodplain, require review by the Floodplain Manager to consider potential downstream flood damage that may result from the project.* HS-P5.4 Evaluate development within the Sacramento-San Joaquin Valley for consistency with DWR’s Urban Level of Flood Protection Criteria. Prohibit new single-family residences, density increases, subdivision maps, or development agreements for any property within a 200-year floodplain in an urban or urbanizing area, unless an adequate finding can be made pursuant to California Water Code Sections 9600 to 9603. HS-P5.5 Prohibit permanent buildings and structures in designated floodways where such impediments could increase risks to human life or restrict the floodway’s carrying capacity. HS-P5.6 Prohibit construction of critical infrastructure in areas subject to flooding or sea-level rise unless no feasible alternative exists. HS-P5.7 Require new subdivisions within the inundation area of a levee or dam, as shown in Figure HS-4, to include a deed notification explaining to future owners that the property may be subject to flooding if the levee or dam were to fail or be overwhelmed. HS-P5.8 Require new development in designated tsunami hazard zones to be designed to withstand anticipated tsunami forces, based on County-prepared studies conducted pursuant to Action HS-A5.4. Actions HS-A5.1 Review flooding policies and maps in this General Plan on an annual basis and incorporate best-available information regarding 100-, 200-, and 500-year floodplains and projected sea-level rise due to climate change. HS-A5.2 Establish countywide protection priorities for vulnerable communities and their populations identified to be at high risk of displacement from future flooding and sea-level rise in the Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment or the best-available climate science data and use regional funding mechanisms to plan and implement protection measures in these locations or for these populations. Page 363Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -21 HS-A5.3 Amend the Floodplain Management Ordinance to address hazardous material storage. HS-A5.4 Conduct a study of existing development within designated tsunami hazard zones to determine evacuation and emergency response needs prior to and during a tsunami event.* HS-A5.5 Pursue a TsunamiReady designation and certification as a TsunamiReady Tier Two community. See the Public Facilities and Services Element for policies and actions related to flood hazards and sea-level rise; the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element for policies and actions related to floodplain management; and the Sea-Level Rise section of this Element for policies and actions related to adaptive management of rising tides. Sea-Level Rise As global temperatures rise, glaciers and other land ice near the north and south poles melt, gradually raising sea levels. Higher temperatures also cause water to expand in oceans, further contributing to sea-level rise. Along the Contra Costa County shoreline, sea levels are projected to rise up to about 2 feet (24 inches) by 2050 and 7 feet (84 inches) by 2100. However, it is possible that sea levels could rise faster than these projections, which has happened historically. Figures HS-6 and HS-8 display the expected depth of water that would inundate dry land in Contra Costa County in 2050 and 2100 based on the Bay Shoreline and East Contra Costa Shoreline models from the San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission’s (BCDC) Adapting to Rising Tides Program. Land that is below sea level could be inundated by water deeper than the sea-level rise (e.g., 2 feet of sea-level rise could expose land 2 feet below sea level to 4 feet of water). Rising sea levels can cause the shoreline to flood more frequently and severely during storms or king tide events. For example, a storm that has a one in five chance of occurring in a given year (known as a five-year storm) can create a temporary increase in sea levels of approximately 2 feet. Because sea-level rise will cause ocean levels to be higher during normal conditions, shoreline floods will reach further onto land. Sea-level rise projections in 2050 and 2100 with shoreline flooding are shown on Figures HS-7 and HS-9. Rising seas increase the risk of flooding, storm surge inundation, erosion and shoreline retreat, and wetland loss. Rising sea levels also threaten a significant portion of prime agricultural land in the county, as low-lying areas could be subject to more frequent shoreline flooding and saltwater intrusion into groundwater basins could disrupt agricultural water supplies. Meanwhile, rising tides may increase groundwater levels, inundating contaminated soil and pushing toxins toward the surface. Given that some contaminated sites in Contra Costa County sit near the shoreline, rising groundwater may cause contaminated soils to leach into previously unaffected areas. Natural ecosystems in the Bay and Delta regions will be disrupted by the higher tide levels and intrusion of saltwater into freshwater systems. Historically, marshes have adapted to changes in sea level by building up sediment, increasing the height of the marsh to keep pace with the tide levels of San Francisco Bay, and by moving inland. However, sea- level rise is expected to outpace the rate of marsh-level rise and development near wetlands will likely prevent marsh migration. Without substantial intervention, most tidal marshes in Contra Costa County are expected to convert to another habitat type, a process called “downshifting,” which will lead to the establishment of different plant and animal species. Some wetlands may be altered while others are lost. The use of nature- Page 364Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 9 -22 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-6 2050 SEA-LEVEL RISE PROJECTION Page 365Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -23 FIGURE HS-7 2050 SEA-LEVEL RISE PROJECTION WITH BAYSHORE/DELTA FLOODING Page 366Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 9 -24 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-8 2100 SEA-LEVEL RISE PROJECTION Page 367Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -25 FIGURE HS-9 2100 SEA-LEVEL RISE PROJECTION WITH BAYSHORE/DELTA FLOODING Page 368Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 9 -26 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element based solutions, which combine natural buffers like wetlands or bluffs with traditional infrastructure to mitigate flooding risks, could be an opportunity to preserve existing ecological communities and protect natural habitats. The goals, policies, and actions in this section focus on planning for a medium- to high-risk aversion (1-in-200 chance) scenario in 2100, which projects 84 inches of sea level rise by 2100 under State guidance prepared in 2018. This scenario uses a higher level of caution, which helps in planning for more vulnerable developments or populations that will have a harder time adapting to sea-level rise and will experience more severe consequences from underestimating it. Sea-level rise resulting from climate change will inundate marinas over the next century. Goal HS-6 Policies HS-P6.1 Require new development to locate habitable areas of buildings above the highest water level expected, based on Figures HS-6 through HS-9, accounting for sea-level rise and other changes in flood conditions, or construct natural and nature-based features, or a levee if necessary, adequately designed to protect the project for its expected life.* HS-P6.2 Support tidal wetland restoration projects in a manner consistent with community needs of flood-risk reduction, habitat and biodiversity conservation, and water quality protection. HS-P6.3 Require new industrial development in areas subject to sea- level rise, emergent groundwater flooding, or tsunami inundation to provide plans for prevention and remediation of any contaminant releases induced by these hazards, along with bonds that guarantee remediation plans are implemented. Remediation should meet standards that protect people and the environment in the event of future permanent inundation. HS-P6.4 Work with transportation agencies and infrastructure owners, such as railroads, to increase the resilience of transportation networks against sea-level rise and increases in flooding intensity, including emergent groundwater flooding. Goal HS-6 Resilient and thriving Bayshore and Delta communities that are safeguarded and adaptively managed for rising sea levels. Page 369Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -27 HS-P6.5 Work with property owners in areas prone to emergent groundwater flooding to pre-emptively harden properties using methods that minimize erosion, subsidence, and structural damage from rising waters.* Actions HS-A6.1 Amend the Floodplain Management Ordinance to apply to areas subject to sea-level rise under at least a medium-high risk aversion scenario by 2100, in accordance with State and regional guidance.* HS-A6.2 Adopt a Sea-Level Rise Overlay Zone with associated land use regulations for site planning and minimum construction elevations that reflects sea-level rise data under at least a medium-high risk aversion scenario by 2100. Refer to BCDC policy guidance when developing this overlay zone. HS-A6.3 Coordinate with BCDC, cities, and other agencies, organizations, and stakeholders to prepare and adopt a community-driven countywide sea-level rise adaptation plan addressing increased flooding and sea-level rise that provides unique adaptation options for the entire county shoreline and identifies funding mechanisms for implementation. Use Figures HS-6 through HS-9 or the best- available climate science data to identify where sea-level rise hazards are likely to occur and lead efforts to: (a) Maximize awareness and disclosure to property owners and the public. (b) Assess and address impacts to future development, including promoting the Adaptation Pathways model to respond to uncertainty and evolving conditions. (c) Plan for resiliency projects and adaptation measures to protect existing development and infrastructure, emphasizing nature-based solutions. (d) Partner with the Adapting to Rising Tides Program, Delta Stewardship Council, property owners, and community-based organizations to conduct a study of opportunities and costs for shifting development away from areas at risk from inundation. (e) Inform funding and financing decisions about short- term and long-term resiliency and adaptation projects. (f) Ensure that the disproportionate impacts on vulnerable populations and Impacted Communities are addressed. HS-A6.4 Coordinate with the BCDC, Delta Stewardship Council, cities, and other involved agencies and stakeholders to create a joint-powers authority or public-private partnership to develop, fund, and implement relevant, regionally coordinated sea-level rise adaptation measures that leverage the results of Adapting to Rising Tides, Bay Adapt, Delta Adapts, and other studies and programs. Page 370Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 9 -28 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element HS-A6.5 Partner with cities and CCTA to develop and fund a countywide plan to increase the resiliency of roads that will be impacted by sea-level rise and tsunamis to ensure emergency responders can get to those in need and that community members, including those that rely on public transit, can continue to reach services. HS-A6.6 Work with State and regional agencies to conduct improved modeling of the areas at risk from emergent groundwater flooding to better understand the threat this hazard poses to Contra Costa County. HS-A6.7 Incorporate Figures HS-6 through HS-9 into the County’s geographic information system for use as a publicly accessible tool for tracking flooding and sea-level rise. WILDFIRE HAZARDS Wildfires are a regular feature of the landscape in much of California and can be sparked by lightning, malfunctioning equipment, carelessness, and other causes. In addition to direct fire impacts on people and property, wildfires remove stabilizing vegetation from hillsides, increasing the likelihood of future landslides and erosion. When wildfires burn at very high temperatures, soils can become hydrophobic, preventing the ground from absorbing stormwater and causing flooding downslope. Wildfire smoke is also harmful and can impact people hundreds of miles from the fire itself. Particulate matter from smoke can cause respiratory illnesses, especially for those who spend substantial time outdoors during smoky conditions or whose homes are poorly sealed and allow smoke to penetrate. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) designates lands into responsibility areas based on who is financially responsible for fire protection services. Local Responsibility Areas (LRAs) include areas where local fire protection districts and fire departments are charged with fire protection. State Responsibility Areas (SRAs) include unincorporated areas and State lands where the State/CAL FIRE has financial responsibility for fire protection. CAL FIRE can also provide fire protection services by contract to cities and counties. Contra Costa County has a mutual-aid agreement with CAL FIRE and several fire districts provide fire prevention and protection services in the unincorporated county, with the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District covering the largest area (see Figure PFS-5 in the Public Facilities and Services Element for a map of fire district service areas). Within the responsibility areas, CAL FIRE designates lands within Fire Hazard Severity Zones. CAL FIRE designates lands within SRAs as Moderate, High, and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones; in LRAs, CAL FIRE only designates land within Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones (with city and county approvals). As shown in Figure HS-10, Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones are mainly in the interior of Contra Costa County, in areas with dense forest, brush, or grassland vegetation and steep terrain that is difficult to access. Wildfires may start in natural areas but can easily spread to developed areas bordering wildlands; this area is called the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) and is mapped in Figure HS-11. All Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in Contra Costa County are within the service area of a fire protection district. Information about the fire districts’ capacities is provided in Appendix B. Fire districts serving rugged, hard to reach areas are usually equipped with tank trucks because such areas typically lack public water infrastructure. Properties designated for Page 371Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -29 FIGURE HS-10 FIRE HAZARD SEVERITY ZONES 035 Page 372Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #035 Posted by Alejandro Anasal on 10/18/2023 at 1:08pm [Comment ID: 6] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 Please note that this is not the most up-to-date map, new maps were published in June 2023. The new map can be found on this page: https://osfm.fire.ca.gov/fire-hazard-severity-zone-maps-2022/ Page 373Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 9 -30 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-11 WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE Page 374Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -31 residential use in areas without public water service are required to maintain sufficient on-site water storage and new development must show that it has sufficient water pressure for firefighting purposes. Within the SRAs and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones, there are existing homes, businesses, and public land uses, as well as associated infrastructure like major roadways (e.g., SR 24 and SR 4), electrical transmission lines, water and wastewater distribution systems, and communication facilities. Most of this development occurred prior to recent wildfire hazard mapping. The policies and actions in this section limit future residential development in High and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones and aim to protect existing buildings and infrastructure. Meanwhile, State law requires that homeowners in the WUI create and maintain defensible space around homes and other structures, keep roofs clear of flammable material, and use spark arresters on chimneys. Wildfires pose risks to residents and their homes and produce smoke that can impact the region. (Credit: USDA www.flickr.com/photos/41284017@N08/9599182665) From 2010 to 2022, there were 24 wildfires in Contra Costa County, most burning over 100 acres each. Some burned considerably more acreage, most notably the 2020 Santa Clara Unit Complex Fire, which burned 396,824 acres in total (3,305 acres in Contra Costa County). Figure HS-12 shows the perimeters of wildfires from 1950 to 2022. Areas that have previously burned, regardless of their location within or outside of a Fire Hazard Severity Zone, are likely to burn again. Because of climate change, fire activity is projected to increase where development expands in the WUI, in addition to the dry hills around Mount Diablo. Goal HS-7 Policies HS-P7.1 Deny applications for new residential subdivisions in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones and discourage residential subdivisions in High Fire Hazard Severity Zones.* HS-P7.2 Require any construction of buildings or infrastructure within a High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone in the LRA or SRA or in the WUI, as shown on Figures HS-10 and HS-11, to incorporate fire-safe design features that meet the State Fire Safe Regulations and Fire Hazard Reduction Around Buildings and Structures Regulation for road ingress and egress, fire equipment access, and adequate water supply.* Goal HS-7 Minimized injury, loss of life, and damage to property from wildfire hazards. Page 375Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 9 -32 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-12 HISTORIC WILDFIRE PERIMETERS Page 376Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -33 HS-P7.3 Require new development within a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone in the LRA or SRA (as shown on Figure HS-10), in the WUI (as shown on Figure HS-11), or on a residential parcel with evacuation constraints (as shown on Figure HS-21), to prepare a traffic control plan to ensure that construction equipment or activities do not block roadways during the construction period. Work with the appropriate fire protection district to review and approve the traffic control plan prior to issuance of building permits.* HS-P7.4 Require subdivisions in the High Fire Hazard Severity Zone in the LRA or SRA and projects requiring a land use permit in the High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone in the LRA or SRA, as shown in Figure HS-10, to complete a site-specific fire protection plan. Work with the appropriate fire protection district to review and revise the fire protection plans. The fire protection plan shall include measures for fire-resistant construction materials and modifying fuel loading, as well as a plan to maintain that protection over time. The fire protection plan shall include: (a) A risk analysis (b) Fire response capabilities (c) Defensible space requirements (d) Fire safety requirements for infrastructure (e) Building ignition resistance (f) Mitigation measures and design for non-conforming fuel modification (g) Wildfire education (h) Maintenance and limitations (i) A plan for emergency preparedness, response, and evacuation* HS-P7.5 Work with property owners within mapped High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the LRA or SRA or in the WUI areas to establish and maintain fire breaks and defensible space, vegetation clearance, emergency access roads, water supply and fire flow, signage, and firefighting infrastructure that meets current adopted State, County, or community fire safety standards. HS-P7.6 Promote installation of smoke detectors at the time of sale or lease agreement, and maintenance of smoke detectors in existing residences and commercial facilities that were constructed prior to the requirement for their installation. HS-P7.7 Work with water service providers and fire protection districts to safeguard the long-term integrity of water supplies to meet firefighting needs and ensure that new and existing developments in high fire risk areas have suitable water delivery infrastructure. HS-P7.8 Construct critical facilities, such as Office of Emergency Services facilities and other uses on the County’s designated critical facilities list, with fire-resistant materials, defensible space, and fire-resistant landscaping that allows them to maintain structural integrity and ensure functional operation Page 377Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 9 -34 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element to the greatest extent feasible. Avoid locating these facilities in high fire risk areas to the extent possible.* HS-P7.9 Coordinate with energy service providers to underground power lines, especially in the WUI and High and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones. HS-P7.10 Work with energy service providers to ensure an adequate power supply to vulnerable populations during planned power shutoffs. HS-P7.11 Facilitate post-fire recovery by supporting efforts to stabilize slopes, control erosion, and replant with native species. HS-P7.12 Support State legislative efforts to reduce fire insurance costs and address resident concerns about rising liabilities and risk of dropped policies. Actions HS-A7.1 Collaborate with local fire safe councils, CAL FIRE Santa Clara Unit, and other fire protection agencies to update and implement the Community Wildfire Protection Plan for Contra Costa County.* HS-A7.2 Support local fire protection agencies with efforts to seek funding for development and implementation of a continuous vegetation management program in fire hazard severity zones and WUI areas. HS-A7.3 Update countywide fire hazard severity zone and WUI mapping as new data becomes available from the California Board of Forestry and Fire Protection. HS-A7.4 Following a large fire, evaluate the feasibility and resilience of redevelopment, and consider changes to building or development standards to improve resilience. HS-A7.5 Collaborate with local and regional fire safe councils, CAL FIRE Santa Clara Unit, and other fire protection agencies to develop a fire safe education program to provide information about State fuel modification, defensible space, access, water, signage, and other fire safe regulations.* HS-A7.6 Pursue grants and other funding mechanisms to retrofit ventilation systems at County buildings to provide refuge for residents during periods of unhealthy air quality caused by excessive wildfire smoke. See the Public Facilities and Services Element for policies and actions related to fire and emergency services. Page 378Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -35 EXTREME HEAT Extreme heat occurs when temperatures rise significantly above normal levels; it is defined as a daytime temperature that exceeds the 90th percentile of the historic average temperature for that date. Extreme heat is a relative term, and different temperatures in different parts of Contra Costa County qualify as extreme heat events because people and buildings accustomed to cooler average temperatures may be less prepared for extreme heat events. For example, an extreme heat day in Rodeo is when temperatures reach 93 degrees Fahrenheit (oF), while in Alamo it is 97oF, and in Knightsen it is 102oF. Extreme heat can cause various heat-related illnesses, such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Seniors (particularly those living alone), small children, outdoor workers, people with chronic illnesses, unsheltered persons, persons living in multiple-family housing without air conditioning, and those on certain medications are particularly susceptible to heat illnesses. Nursing homes and elder-care facilities are especially vulnerable to extreme heat events if power outages occur and air conditioning or electricity-powered medical devices are not available. In addition, when extreme heat days occur while the air is smoky from wildfires, residents may have to choose between opening windows to cool their homes, letting in smoke, or keeping windows closed, causing dangerous indoor air temperatures. Extreme heat has various other impacts. Some types of infrastructure, including power lines, communications equipment, railways, and roadways, are more prone to failure when temperatures are high. An example occurred in Contra Costa County in June 2022, when extreme heat buckled BART tracks causing a derailment. Very high temperatures increase demand for electricity, which can lead to outages and associated health and economic impacts. Extreme heat can also increase the risk of wildfires by drying out plants, exacerbating drought conditions, and harming wildlife that is not adapted to these conditions. Extreme heat can exacerbate drought conditions. (Credit: National Park Service) Historically, Contra Costa County has experienced an average of four extreme heat days a year. Figure HS-13 displays the projected average annual temperatures for 2070 through 2099. By the end of the century, the county is projected to experience an annual average of 18 to 30 extreme heat days per year. Page 379Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 9 -36 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-13 TEMPERATURE FORECAST Page 380Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -37 Goal HS-8 Policies HS-P8.1 Coordinate with public agencies, utilities, and community- based organizations to provide community resilience centers in all regions of the county during extreme heat events, severe weather events, and other highly hazardous conditions. Work to ensure that these facilities are in highly accessible areas and that information about their availability is widely distributed, especially to vulnerable populations. HS-P8.2 Work with energy service providers to promote programs encouraging reduced energy use during extreme heat events. HS-P8.3 Require new commercial parking lots with 50 or more spaces to mitigate heat gain through installation of shade trees, solar arrays, or other emerging cooling technologies. Prioritize the use of solar arrays where feasible and appropriate. HS-P8.4 Support efforts by East Bay Regional Park District and other local recreation agencies to provide outdoor recreation facilities with adequate shading and refillable water stations where appropriate. Actions HS-A8.1 Amend County Ordinance Code Chapter 82-16 – Off-Street Parking to achieve consistency with Policy HS-P8.3. See the Air Quality section of this Element and the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element for additional policies and actions related to tree preservation, planting, and air quality. MANAGEMENT OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS AND HAZARDOUS WASTE Heavy industrial uses play a large role in the history of Contra Costa County, particularly along its west and north coasts, where historic and ongoing activities handle, store, and transport vast amounts of hazardous materials and hazardous waste. Land uses involving hazardous materials include Military Ocean Terminal Concord (MOTCO), petroleum and chemical processing plants, oil and gas wells, power plants, ammonia refrigeration facilities, and petroleum product and natural gas storage and pipelines. Potential hazards include release of flammable materials that could cause an explosion or fire along with smoke and combustion byproducts, and chemical releases with various levels of chemical toxicity. Notwithstanding industrial safety procedures, the presence of hazardous materials in large Goal HS-8 Communities that can continue to function and thrive with an increase in average temperatures and extreme heat days. Page 381Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 9 -38 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element quantities, especially close to or upwind of populated areas, poses a constant safety hazard. Hazardous materials and hazardous waste facilities are heavily regulated by the State and federal governments, including the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) and the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB). Preventing environmental releases of hazardous materials depends primarily on compliance with industrial safety requirements and procedures regulated by the DTSC. The California Fire Code also minimizes public safety risks by requiring a buffer between hazardous materials use areas and residential populations. Pipelines transport crude oil through Rodeo and other communities. Contra Costa Hazardous Materials Programs (CCHMP) is the Certified Unified Program Agency (CUPA) for all of Contra Costa County. As the CUPA, CCHMP administers the State’s hazardous materials regulatory programs through routine inspections at sites that handle hazardous materials, as well as the County’s Industrial Safety Ordinance and Unannounced Inspection, Green Business, and Pollution Prevention programs. The County Office of Emergency Services (OES) is responsible for planning, outreach, and training related to disaster management and emergency preparedness. Hazardous materials releases are reported to OES to ensure a coordinated response by County emergency services, such as fire and medical units, and evacuation notification, if needed. Sites that have been contaminated with hazardous materials or hazardous waste can be remediated to protect human health and the environment. Remediation typically occurs in three stages. In the first phase, the current or prospective property owner performs an environmental assessment in which they review records to determine if the potential exists for exposure to hazardous materials. If potential contamination is discovered, environmental samples are collected and a health risk assessment is prepared. If the assessment identifies significant contamination, DTSC implements Health and Safety Code requirements to perform necessary cleanup activities. DTSC or the SWRCB oversees the assessment and remediation process; the County has no role in cleanup and remediation of contaminated sites, although it is an issue of significant concern to county residents and is typically considered during development review processes. Reducing community exposure to hazardous materials is crucial in Impacted Communities to address the health disparities caused by exposure to hazardous materials from historic and ongoing activities. As shown in Figures HS-14 through HS-16, there are higher concentrations of toxic releases, hazardous waste generators and facilities, and cleanup sites in and around Impacted Communities than many other parts of the county. Page 382Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -39 FIGURE HS-14 TOXIC RELEASES RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE Page 383Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 9 -40 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-15 HAZARDOUS WASTE GENERATORS AND FACILITIES RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE Page 384Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -41 FIGURE HS-16 CLEAN-UP SITES RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE Page 385Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 9 -42 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Goal HS-9 Policies HS-P9.1 Provide equitable inspection and enforcement of hazardous material and hazardous waste regulations throughout the county. HS-P9.2 Ensure CCHMP staff have an opportunity to review and comment on development applications for projects involving use of hazardous materials or hazardous waste. HS-P9.3 Require new industrial development to reduce generation and disposal of hazardous materials to the maximum extent feasible by (listed in order of importance): (a) Implementing operational source reduction strategies and replacing hazardous materials with less hazardous materials. (b) Reducing generation of those wastes not amenable to source reduction or recycling. (c) Recovering and recycling the remaining waste for reuse. (d) Properly disposing of hazardous wastes and residuals generated from treatment of hazardous waste.* HS-P9.4 Support development of alternative hazardous waste management technologies and methodologies that reduce the relative risk to human health and the environment. HS-P9.5 Require facilities that manage hazardous materials or hazardous waste in stationary or fixed storage tanks and that are in areas at risk of inundation from sea-level rise and flooding to conduct sea-level rise studies to address the risk of hazardous materials release from rising water levels, including rising groundwater. Require these facilities to incorporate best management practices to reduce the risk of release.* HS-P9.6 Require transport of hazardous materials via the safest available method for each material, avoiding Impacted Communities, populated areas, and areas subject to natural hazards whenever possible. HS-P9.7 Prioritize implementation of safety projects along hazardous material transportation corridors in Impacted Communities to address high-risk scenarios. Goal HS-9 Communities that are protected from hazards associated with use, manufacture, transport, storage, treatment, and disposal of hazardous materials and hazardous waste, including from fossil fuels, chemical refining, and power plants, as well as pipelines, rail lines, and truck transportation. Page 386Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -43 HS-P9.8 Require applicants for projects in Impacted Communities that involve hazardous materials or hazardous waste to provide clear information in plain language about potential hazards their projects pose to nearby residents. Review and verify this information, make it available to residents, and encourage project applicants to host at least one community meeting to discuss potential hazards. HS-P9.9 Discourage construction of new large-scale facilities that treat, store, or dispose of hazardous waste from off-site sources and negatively impact Impacted Communities. HS-P9.10 Prohibit new hazardous waste facilities in the following areas: (a) Watersheds of an existing or planned drinking water reservoir. (b) Ecologically significant resource areas. (c) Within 200 feet of an active or potentially active fault. (d) Within a 100-year floodplain. (e) Within a setback distance determined in accordance with DTSC guidance under SB 673, once final.* HS-P9.11 Require design and operation of new or expanded hazardous waste facilities to adhere to the following criteria, as well as the permitting criteria established by the DTSC for vulnerable communities and cumulative impacts pursuant to SB 673, once final: (a) Minimize risk to the surrounding area in the case of a hazardous waste accident or spill. (b) Ensure spills of waste will not reach the Bay, Delta, streams, creeks, reservoirs, or other bodies of water or environmentally sensitive resources by incorporating buffers as appropriate and/or using engineered structural design features (e.g., spill containment and monitoring devices). (c) Avoid known or suspected groundwater recharge areas or areas where residential uses rely on wells. If located in such areas, facilities must provide properly engineered spill containment features, inspection measures, and other environmental protection controls. (d) In areas with unstable soils, such as steep slopes and areas subject to liquefaction or subsidence, ensure structural stability through engineered design features. (e) Use access roads leading to major transportation routes that: • Do not traverse residential neighborhoods. • Minimize, buffer, or employ physical barriers to residential frontages. • Demonstrate road network safety through road design, construction, accident rates, and traffic flow. (f) Minimize noise impacts on the surrounding area.* Page 387Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 9 -44 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element HS-P9.12 Require hazardous waste facilities to prepare a cumulative risk assessment that analyzes, characterizes, and quantifies the combined risks to human health and the environment from the facility, in combination with other off-site hazardous materials risks. The assessment must consider risks in the absence of actions to control or mitigate a potential release and determine whether buffers or other mitigation is necessary to protect residential uses, immobile populations (e.g., schools, hospitals, behavioral health facilities, convalescent homes, and prisons), other places where people gather, environmentally sensitive resources, and other sensitive areas from adverse emissions or contamination. The assessment must also be guided by DTSC guidance for vulnerable communities and cumulative impacts pursuant to SB 673, once final. Require that project applicants fund the needed technical review for the assessment.* HS-P9.13 Include a condition in entitlements for new and expanded hazardous waste facilities that requires periodic (i.e., every one to three years) permit review to ensure ongoing compliance with conditions of approval. HS-P9.14 Encourage and facilitate establishment of adequate sites for collection of household hazardous waste (HHW), unused pharmaceuticals, and universal wastes, along with provisions for residents who are physically unable to deliver materials to a collection site. Actions HS-A9.1 Provide technical assistance to hazardous waste generators to encourage them to reduce their hazardous waste to the maximum extent feasible. HS-A9.2 Update the Oil Spill Contingency Plan to protect the Bay and Delta shoreline areas in the event of an oil or other hazardous materials spill. HS-A9.3 Provide information to county residents about less toxic alternatives to household products containing universal wastes and the safe handling, storage, and disposal of such products, including pharmaceuticals. Goal HS-10 Policies HS-P10.1 Coordinate with other agencies in efforts to remediate or treat contaminated surface water, groundwater, and soils in or affecting Impacted Communities. Goal HS-10 Communities that are protected from the impacts of historical hazardous waste releases. Page 388Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -45 HS-P10.2 Require development of contaminated sites to comply with all clean-up plans, land use covenants, and deed restrictions imposed by the DTSC or Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB).* HS-P10.3 Require new or expanded industrial uses involving hazardous materials or wastes to provide sufficient funds, in the form of a cash deposit, surety bond, or other financial instrument acceptable to the County, to guarantee site remediation, including removal of facilities, equipment, and structures, and ensure community safety and site reusability. Actions HS-A10.1 Support public access to the inventory of contaminated sites published by the DTSC and SWRCB by posting links to this information on the County’s website. SEISMIC AND GEOLOGIC HAZARDS Contra Costa County is in a region of high seismicity. Underlying California are two tectonic plates, the Pacific Plate and North American Plate. Their primary boundary is the San Andreas Fault, which runs most of the length of the state. These plates move past each other at a rate of about two inches per year. Friction occasionally causes the plates to become stuck, resulting in stress and stored energy deep below Earth’s surface. When the plates inevitably break loose, the stored energy is suddenly released in the form of an earthquake. Several significant (i.e., stronger than magnitude 5.0) earthquakes have impacted the county, including the 1906 San Francisco earthquake (magnitude 7.8), 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake (magnitude 6.9), and 2014 South Napa earthquake (magnitude 6.0). Many smaller, active faults exist within the San Andreas Fault Zone. Faults are commonly considered “active” when they have ruptured the ground surface or otherwise produced evidence of seismic activity within the last 10,000 years, while “potentially active” faults are those formed during approximately the last 2 to 3 million years. There are five major active faults running through the county: • Calaveras (North Central) Fault • Concord-Green Valley Fault • Greenville Fault • Hayward Fault • Mount Diablo Fault Movement on any of these faults or other fault lines in the region could cause earthquakes and fault rupture. The Hayward Fault is particularly concerning, as it runs beneath densely populated sections of Contra Costa and Alameda Counties. A significant earthquake on the Hayward Fault is predicted to result in catastrophic damage to buildings and infrastructure and substantial loss of life. The Alquist-Priolo Act is a State law that limits development along active faults in areas known as “Alquist-Priolo Fault Zones.” The Alquist-Priolo Fault Zones are areas around active faults that are known to cause surface rupture, meaning that the surface of the ground is “pulled apart” during seismic activity. Structures within these zones are subject to specific building codes and regulations to ensure they can withstand the effects of earthquakes, as surface rupture can seriously damage buildings and other structures built on top of the fault. Figure HS-17 shows active and potentially Page 389Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 9 -46 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-17 EARTHQUAKE HAZARDS Page 390Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -47 active faults, Alquist-Priolo Fault Zones, and anticipated shaking levels based on State modeling data. Earthquakes have secondary effects as well. One of these is liquefaction, which occurs when sandy or silty soil materials become saturated during ground shaking, losing strength, causing the ground to liquefy. This can rupture pipelines, buckle roads and railroad tracks, and damage or destroy building foundations. Figure HS-18 shows the susceptibility of land to liquefaction. Areas along the Bay shoreline and in the Delta are most susceptible. As explained in the Flood Hazards and Sea-Level Rise section of this Element, earthquakes can also cause tsunami and seiche. Other geologic hazards are landslides and erosion, which can occur gradually and continuously or very suddenly, often with disastrous results. In Contra Costa County, landslides are usually triggered by heavy rain, so the potential for landslides largely coincides with severe storms that saturate steep, loose soils. Earthquakes can also trigger landslides, and upland areas in Contra Costa County are highly susceptible to landslides, as shown in Figure HS-19. Erosion, or the geological process in which earthen materials are worn away and transported by natural forces like water or wind, causes the soil to deteriorate. Highly erosive soils can damage roads, bridges, buildings, and other structures. Earthquakes can cause significant building damage. Goal HS-11 Communities and infrastructure that are protected from seismic and geologic hazards, including severe ground shaking, fault rupture, liquefaction, landslides, and unstable slopes. Page 391Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 9 -48 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-18 LIQUEFACTION SUSCEPTIBILITY Page 392Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -49 FIGURE HS-19 LANDSLIDE HAZARDS Page 393Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 9 -50 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Goal HS-11 Policies HS-P11.1 For projects in areas of known or suspected seismic or other geologic hazards, such as Alquist-Priolo Fault Zones, liquefiable soils, landslides, and steep slopes, require submittal of a geotechnical report and ensure effective mitigation measures are incorporated into the project design.* HS-P11.2 Prohibit construction of buildings intended for human occupancy in areas where seismic and other geologic hazards (e.g., landslides, liquefaction, and fault lines) cannot be adequately mitigated.* HS-P11.3 Discourage construction of critical facilities and buildings intended for human occupancy in Alquist-Priolo Fault Zones. Where such development already exists, encourage earthquake retrofitting. If there is no feasible alternative to developing inside the Fault Zone, buildings must be sited, designed, and constructed to withstand the anticipated seismic stresses.* HS-P11.4 Refer geotechnical and soils reports to the County Geologist for review and approval whenever necessary. HS-P11.5 Discourage development on slopes exceeding 15 percent, and prohibit development on slopes exceeding 25 percent, to avoid slope instability, extensive grading, and unnecessary land disturbance. Exceptions may be considered for infrastructure projects and development on existing legal lots where no other feasible building sites exist. HS-P11.6 Do not accept public road dedications or allow construction of private roads on unstable hillsides or in landslide hazard areas unless potential hazards have been mitigated to the County’s satisfaction.* EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS, RESPONSE, AND EVACUATION ROUTES Preparedness, Response, and Recovery Contra Costa County is committed to preservation of life, property, and the environment during emergencies. The County implements its Local Hazard Mitigation Plan, which assesses risks from natural and human-caused hazards, including risks to people and facilities, and identifies mitigation actions to reduce or eliminate hazard risks. The current Local Hazard Mitigation Plan, certified by FEMA, is incorporated into this Health and Safety Element by reference, as permitted by California Government Code Section 65302.6. Multiple agencies within the county, along with State and federal agencies, are involved with emergency preparedness and response. The County has adopted the State of California Emergency Plan issued by the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (CAL OES). The State Plan outlines ways to Page 394Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -51 prepare for and respond to various disasters, such as earthquakes, floods, and fires, and specifies which State-level department will be responsible for recovery efforts. Contra Costa County also participates in the California Disaster and Civil Defense Master Mutual-Aid Agreement, under which the State and local governments will work together to respond to emergencies. CAL OES Coastal Region (Mutual Aid Region II) serves the counties on the coast from Del Norte to Monterey and the counties surrounding San Francisco Bay. The County has its own Emergency Operations Plan developed by the Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services in collaboration with emergency management partners (fire districts, law enforcement agencies, etc.), and has prepared additional plans addressing earthquake response, disaster debris management, and airport emergencies. The County also maintains the Emergency Operations Center, which is activated as needed to communicate with emergency management partners and coordinate responses to incidents. In addition, the County and many of the incorporated cities offer Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training to help residents be prepared for disasters. The intent of these plans and actions is to proactively safeguard life, property, and the environment, facilitate effective emergency response, and accelerate recovery when disasters happen. The County’s Emergency Operations Center monitors hazardous events as they unfold and coordinates the response. Goal HS-12 Policies HS-P12.1 Continue implementing the Contra Costa County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan, which was adopted by the Board of Supervisors and certified by FEMA and is incorporated into this Health and Safety Element. HS-P12.2 Locate facilities and uses on the County’s designated critical facilities list outside of identified hazard areas whenever possible, accounting for how climate change may increase frequency and intensity of hazards. If critical facilities must be in hazard areas, ensure these facilities and their access routes are protected from the hazard risks inherent to each location.* Goal HS-12 Communities and local economies that continue to function during all hazards and have coordinated and effective response and recovery procedures. Page 395Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 9 -52 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element HS-P12.3 Coordinate with cities, school districts, recreation and park districts, and community-based organizations to ensure adequate emergency shelters, community resilience centers, and alternate care sites are available when natural disasters and other highly hazardous conditions, such as industrial accidents, occur. HS-P12.4 Ensure there are adequate identified locations for alternate care sites, especially in Impacted Communities. HS-P12.5 Ensure the designs for new and significantly renovated community-oriented County facilities allow for flexible uses and support multiple community purposes, including being used as community resilience centers. HS-P12.6 Support residents’ ability to safely shelter-in-place, with appropriate air exchange rates and protection from contaminants. Actions HS-A12.1 Update the Contra Costa County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan as necessary to remain compliant with State and federal laws and reflect changing climate conditions. HS-A12.2 Incorporate the assessments and projections for future emergency service needs from the most recent Municipal Services Reviews into updates of the Contra Costa County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan. HS-A12.3 At least once every eight years, evaluate the effectiveness of and update the public safety, preparedness, and hazard mitigation policies in this Health and Safety Element, with consideration given to changing climate conditions. HS-A12.4 Identify and, as feasible, retrofit critical County-owned buildings and facilities in areas prone to flooding (including sea-level rise and emergent flooding), seismic hazards, landslides and debris flows, tsunamis, or wildfires to maximize defensible space and outdoor fireproofing, improve drainage systems, stabilize nearby slopes, and take other actions as appropriate to minimize the hazard. HS-A12.5 Identify and map existing community facilities, such as libraries, gymnasiums, community centers, and auditoriums, that can serve as community resilience centers and support people with access and functional needs during hazard events. Work with the owners of these facilities to identify and implement upgrades, prioritizing facilities in Impacted Communities. Page 396Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -53 HS-A12.6 Establish standardized triggers (temperature, air quality, etc.) for opening County-operated community resilience centers. HS-A12.7 Conduct a comprehensive energy resilience needs assessment for critical County facilities and pursue funding opportunities to meet identified needs. HS-A12.8 Install backup power and water resources at critical County facilities, emergency shelters, community resilience centers, and cooling centers.* HS-A12.9 Coordinate with transit providers to identify and advertise ways for individuals with restricted mobility to reach resilience centers, cooling centers, and alternate care sites. HS-A12.10 Partner with community-based organizations, homeowners associations, and neighborhood groups to communicate with community members about human-caused, natural, and climate change-induced hazards, how to prepare for them, and what to do when a shelter-in-place or evacuation order is issued. Make this information widely available in various formats and languages to all community members, with special effort aimed at reaching unsheltered people and people with special access and functional needs. HS-A12.11 Continue to provide alerts about developing and ongoing emergency situations in languages and formats appropriate to affected county residents through the Joint Information Center. HS-A12.12 Continue providing CERT training programs and encourage the Contra Costa CERT Coalition to provide updated training on hazards and related risks identified in the Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment or the best-available climate science data. Evacuation Routes and Plans With advanced warning, evacuation can be effective in reducing injury and loss of life during a catastrophic event. Figure HS-20 shows the evacuation routes throughout the county, which include highways and major surface streets. Preferred evacuation routes during any individual evacuation order will depend on the characteristics of the emergency. Contra Costa County has identified evacuation zones to support efficient communication with community members regarding evacuation warnings and orders. Some parts of the county face evacuation constraints, particularly those far from major roadways. Some areas have only one viable evacuation route, which could be disastrous if it becomes blocked or congested. State law requires counties to identify evacuation constraints in hazard-prone residential areas. Figure HS-21 maps residential parcels with evacuation constraints. All areas identified are more than a half-mile from a major roadway and/or have access to only one emergency evacuation route. In most cases it is not feasible to retrofit existing neighborhoods to eliminate physical evacuation constraints such as lack of evacuation routes or Page 397Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 9 -54 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-20 EVACUATION ROUTES Page 398Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -55 FIGURE HS-21 SINGLE-ACCESS ROAD RESIDENTIAL AREAS Page 399Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 9 -56 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element insufficient roadway capacity. The County will nonetheless strive to improve peoples’ ability to evacuate from these constrained areas. Goal HS-13 Policies HS-P13.1 Except for infill sites, require new development in High and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones, the WUI, and 100-year or 200-year floodplains to have access to at least two emergency evacuation routes, and encourage the same for existing development.* HS-P13.2 Coordinate with transit agencies and community service and faith-based organizations to assist with evacuation efforts and ensure that evacuation services are made available to vulnerable people, including those with limited English proficiency or limited access to transportation, communication, and other lifeline resources and services. Actions HS-A13.1 Partner with cities and public protection agencies to delineate evacuation routes, identifying their capacity, safety, and viability under different hazard scenarios, as well as emergency vehicle routes for disaster response, and where possible, alternate routes where congestion or road failure might reasonably be expected to occur. Update as new information and technologies become available. HS-A13.2 At least once every five years, update maps identifying neighborhoods with only one emergency evacuation route.* HS-A13.3 Coordinate with local fire districts to develop and maintain minimum roadway, ingress, and egress standards for evacuation of residential areas in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones.* HS-A13.4 Develop an evacuation education program to help inform community members about the Contra Costa County Community Warning System and recommended approaches to evacuation. See the Public Facilities and Services Element for policies and actions related to emergency medical services. Goal HS-13 Effective evacuation capacity and capabilities throughout the county in response to emergencies and major hazards of concern. Page 400Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -57 NOISE AND VIBRATION Sounds are disturbances created by a vibrating object, transmitted by pressure waves, that are capable of being detected by a human ear or microphone. Noise includes sounds that are unpleasant or unwanted. Like noise, vibration is transmitted in waves, but through the earth or solid objects. Unlike noise, vibration is typically felt rather than heard. Vibration can be natural, such as from earthquakes or landslides, or human-caused, such as from machinery or trains. Noise and vibration can significantly impact peoples’ lives. Depending on their source and intensity, noise and vibration can be painful, interrupt sleep, cause distraction or confusion, and physically damage the inner ear. Physical damage to human hearing begins at prolonged exposure to noise levels higher than 85 dBA (i.e., the A-weighted sound level, which correlates to how the human ear perceives sound). Exposure to high noise levels affects our entire system, with prolonged noise exposure in excess of 75 dBA increasing body tensions, thereby affecting blood pressure, functions of the heart, and the nervous system. Extended periods of noise exposure above 90 dBA can result in permanent hearing damage. When the noise level reaches 120 dBA, even short-term exposure causes a tickling sensation in the ear, called the threshold of feeling. As the sound reaches 140 dBA, the tickling sensation becomes painful, called the threshold of pain. Table HS-2 shows typical noise levels from familiar noise sources. Some types of noise and vibration, such as from construction and maintenance activities, are temporary. While these types of noise and vibration can be long-term, they will end with completion of the activity. Other types of noise and vibration are permanent, including from mobile sources such as cars, trains, and planes, and stationary sources, like continual noise from machinery at an industrial site. These sources require the County to ensure that certain land uses, especially "sensitive receptors" like homes and schools, are not brought too close to the permanent source of noise and vibration without incorporating reduction measures like thicker walls and windows. TABLE HS-2 TYPICAL A-WEIGHTED SOUND LEVELS Noise Source A-Weighted Sound Level in Decibels Noise Environment Near Jet Engine 140 Deafening Civil Defense Siren 130 Threshold of pain Hard Rock Band 120 Threshold of feeling Accelerating Motorcycle at a Few Feet Away 110 Very loud Pile Driver; Noisy Urban Street/Heavy City Traffic 100 Very loud Ambulance Siren; Food Blender 95 Very loud Garbage Disposal 90 Very loud Freight Cars; Living Room Music 85 Loud Pneumatic Drill; Vacuum Cleaner 80 Loud Busy Restaurant 75 Moderately loud Near Freeway Auto Traffic 70 Moderately loud Average Office 60 Moderate Suburban Street 55 Moderate Light Traffic; Soft Radio Music in Apartment 50 Quiet Large Transformer 45 Quiet Average Residence Without Stereo Playing 40 Faint Soft Whisper 30 Faint Rustling Leaves 20 Very faint Human Breathing 10 Very faint State law requires general plans to use the Community Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL) or the Day/Night Average Sound Level (DNL) to describe the community noise environment (in decibels, "dB") and its effects on the population. Contra Costa County land use compatibility standards for noise are shown in Table HS-3, and the future 2045 roadway noise conditions are depicted graphically on Figure HS-22. Page 401Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 9 -58 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element TABLE HS-3 MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE NOISE EXPOSURE BY LAND USE Land Use Type Noise Level, DNL (dB) 0-55 56- 60 61- 65 66- 70 71- 75 75- 80 >81 Residential a, b Urban Residential Infill Hotels, Motels Schools, Libraries, Churches, Hospitals, Extended Care Facilities Auditoriums, Concert Halls, Amphitheaters Sports Arenas, Outdoor Spectator Sports Playgrounds, Neighborhood Parks Golf Courses, Riding Stables, Water Recreation, Cemeteries Office Buildings, Business Commercial, and Professional Mining, Industrial, Manufacturing, Utilities, Agriculture Normally Acceptable. Specified land use is satisfactory based on the assumption that any buildings involved are of normal, conventional construction, without any special noise insulation requirements. Conditionally Acceptable. New construction or development should be undertaken only after a detailed analysis of the noise-reduction requirements is made and needed insulation features have been included in the design. Unacceptable. New construction or development should not be undertaken. a A DNL of 60 dB or less may not be achievable in all residential areas due to environmental, economic, or aesthetic constraints. One example is small balconies associated with multiple-family housing. In this case, second- and third-story balconies may be difficult to control to the standard. A common outdoor use area that meets the goal can be provided as an alternative. b If the primary noise source is passing trains, the standard for outdoor noise levels in residential areas is a DNL of 70 dB. Goal HS-14 Policies HS-P14.1 Require projects that would locate noise-sensitive land uses in areas where the projected ambient noise level is greater than the “normally acceptable” noise level indicated in Table HS-3 to provide an acoustical analysis that recommends appropriate mitigation to meet the noise compatibility standards.* HS-P14.2 Require new housing developments, hotels, and motels exposed to a DNL of 60 dB or greater to provide a detailed acoustical analysis describing how the project will provide an interior DNL of 45 dB or less.* HS-P14.3 Require new nonresidential uses exposed to a DNL of 65 dB or greater to provide a detailed acoustical analysis describing how the project will provide an interior sound level of 50 Leq (1-hr).* Goal HS-14 An acceptable noise environment in all areas of the county. Page 402Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -59 FIGURE HS-22 2045 ROADWAY NOISE CONTOURS Page 403Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 9 -60 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element HS-P14.4 Require new residential development in areas exposed to a DNL in excess of 65 dB due to single events, such as train operation, to provide an acoustical analysis describing how indoor noise levels from these single events will not exceed a maximum A-weighted noise level of 35 dB in bedrooms and 55 dB in other habitable rooms. In areas exposed to a DNL in excess of 65 dB, use an indoor residential noise-level threshold of 45 dB CNEL.* HS-P14.5 Protect noise-sensitive land uses listed in Table HS-3 from adverse noise impacts by requiring mitigation to the degree feasible for projects that would increase long-term noise in excess of the following thresholds, when measured at the sensitive use’s property line: (a) Greater than 1.5 dBA DNL increase for ambient noise environments of 65 dBA DNL and higher. (b) Greater than 3 dBA DNL increase for ambient noise environments of 60 to 64 DNL. (c) Greater than 5 dBA DNL increase for ambient noise environments of less than 60 dBA DNL.* HS-P14.6 Design County projects to minimize long-term noise impacts on existing residents and follow best practices to minimize short-term impacts from construction noise.* HS-P14.7 Condition entitlements to limit noise-generating construction activities to the following: (a) Weekdays and non-holidays unless site-specific conditions warrant exceptions. (b) Within 1,000 feet of noise-sensitive uses: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (c) Over 1,000 feet from noise-sensitive uses: 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.* HS-P14.8 Require a traffic noise analysis for development projects where the project would generate more than 40 percent of daily trips over existing average daily traffic (ADT) on impacted roadway segments. Projects below this threshold are assumed to have no significant traffic noise impact because they would increase noise levels by less than 1.5 dBA DNL, which is the most restrictive threshold for determining a significant traffic noise impact. This screening policy does not apply to projects involving a substantial number of new operational truck trips (e.g., warehouses).* HS-P14.9 Require effective measures along major transportation facilities/corridors to reduce impacts on adjacent noise- sensitive land uses.* HS-P14.10 Require new development to evaluate noise impacts on the natural environment, including impacts on wildlife, whenever appropriate. Page 404Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -61 HS-P14.11 When reviewing proposals for new vibration-sensitive uses near an existing railroad or Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) line, use Table HS-4 to evaluate whether the sensitive uses could be exposed to excessive groundborne vibration. Projects with sensitive uses within the screening distances identified in the table will require preparation of a groundborne vibration and noise evaluation that is consistent with Federal Transit Administration-approved methodologies. TABLE HS-4: RAIL VIBRATION SCREENING DISTANCES Distance in Feet Type of Rail Land Use Category 1 Land Use Category 2 Land Use Category 3 Conventional Commuter Rail or Rapid Transit (BART) 600 200 120 Notes: Land Use Category 1: Vibration-sensitive research and manufacturing, hospitals with vibration- sensitive equipment, universities conducting vibration-sensitive research, concert halls, TV and recording studios, and theaters. Land Use Category 2: Residential, hotels/motels, and hospitals without vibration-sensitive equipment. Land Use Category 3: Institutional uses such as schools, churches, and medical offices without vibration-sensitive equipment. Actions HS-A14.1 Study the feasibility of adopting a noise ordinance establishing maximum exterior noise levels at sensitive receptors for noise generated by permanent and temporary stationary, non-transportation sources and construction sources. HS-A14.2 Pursue federal Quiet Zone status for rail crossings that are a noise nuisance to nearby residential areas and other noise- sensitive land uses. HEALTH AND SAFETY ELEMENT PERFORMANCE MEASURES To track progress in achieving the major goals of this Element, every five years, the County will collect data to assess its performance against the following measures. Progress will be tracked relative to the prior performance review and the baseline year of 2024. Based on the findings from the five-year review, the County may adjust policies, actions, or the approach to implementing them to improve performance, as needed. • Reduced rate of emergency department visits for asthma. • Increased tree canopy on public property in Impacted Communities. • Increased number of County facilities in hazard-prone areas that are retrofitted against hazards. • Reduced number of people in hazard-prone areas that are constrained by having only one evacuation route. Page 405Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 9 -62 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element This page intentionally left blank. Page 406Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Growth Management Element 10-1 10 GROWTH MANAGEMENT ELEMENT . The purpose of the Growth Management Element (GME) is to establish the goals, policies, and actions intended to manage and mitigate the impacts of future growth and development within unincorporated Contra Costa County. This Element also complies with the requirements of the Measure J-2004 Growth Management Program (GMP), which includes the Contra Costa Transportation Sales Tax Expenditure Plan administered by the Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA). To provide context for the goals, policies, and actions that follow, this GME is divided into the following sections: • The Background section describes the regulatory context for this Element. • The Intent section describes the overarching goals of this Element. • The Authority section defines the County’s ability to include this Element in the locally-adopted General Plan. • The Relationship to Other General Plan Elements section describes how this Element supports and interacts with the other Elements in this General Plan. BACKGROUND The Measure J GMP, approved by the voters of Contra Costa County in November 2004, took effect on April 1, 2009, and requires the County to satisfy the following six requirements: (a) Adopt a development impact mitigation program. (b) Address housing options. (c) Participate in an ongoing cooperative, multi-jurisdictional planning process. (d) Adopt a voter-approved Urban Limit Line (ULL). (e) Develop a five-year capital improvement program. (f) Adopt a Transportation Systems Management (TSM) Ordinance or Resolution (commonly known as Transportation Demand Management [TDM]). The Measure J GMP is a 25-year extension (through March 31, 2034) of the previous Measure C Contra Costa Transportation Improvement and Growth Management Program approved by voters in 1988. Both programs include a 0.5 percent transportation and retail transactions and use sales tax intended to address existing major regional transportation problems. The Growth Management component of Measure J is intended to ensure that future residential, business, and commercial growth pays for the facilities required to meet the demands resulting from that growth. Compliance with the GMP is linked to receipt of Local Street Maintenance and Improvement Funds and Transportation for Livable Communities Funds from the Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA). Measure J eliminates the past Measure C requirements for local performance standards and level- of-service standards for nonregional routes. Page 407Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 10-2 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Growth Management Element INTENT By adopting and implementing the GME, the County intends to establish a comprehensive, long-range planning program that will match the existing, emerging, and more dynamic demands for multi-modal transportation facilities, programs, and services generated by new development with plans, capital improvement programs, and development mitigation programs (e.g., impact fees paid by developers). The ULL is intended to promote compact development patterns and restrict extension of infrastructure into areas where urban development is neither planned nor desired. AUTHORITY The GME is adopted pursuant to the authority granted to each local jurisdiction by California Government Code Section 65303, which states: The general plan may include any other elements or address any other subjects which, in the judgment of the legislative body, relate to the physical development of the county or city. The GME is consistent with the requirements of Measure J, as amended by the CCTA. RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS The GME works closely in conjunction with the Land Use and Public Facilities and Services Elements to ensure that development proceeds in a manner that will not negatively affect facility and performance standards for existing land uses. New developments should be required to demonstrate compliance with these standards and recommend motorized and nonmotorized improvements to the transportation system when necessary. By using the GME to responsibly manage new development proposals, the County ensures that each new development project bears its appropriate share of the burdens and impacts that they impose on public facilities, programs, and services. As a result, the GME must be carefully considered together with the Land Use Element and other Elements of this General Plan when assessing General Plan consistency. The ULL and 65/35 Land Preservation Standard also work with the GME to ensure that growth occurs in a responsible manner and strikes appropriate balances between many competing values and interests, such as providing sufficient land for housing and jobs while preserving open spaces. By establishing an inter-jurisdictional land supply and development monitoring program, the GME coordinates implementation of this General Plan with the general plans of the county’s 19 incorporated cities/towns. Additionally, the GME contains programs for local implementation that encourage new development to promote the goals and objectives of the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element and Housing Element. To carry out the goals and objectives of the Land Use and Transportation Elements of the General Plan, new development must demonstrate that the performance standards of the GME will be met to ensure the multi-modal transportation system can accommodate the new development. New growth will be required to remediate operational issues on the multi-modal transportation system through development fees and other exactions. Thus, the improvements needed to implement these Elements of the General Plan will in part be directly tied to, and dependent upon, locally led implementation of the GME. Policies relating to this "Pay as you Grow" philosophy underpinning the GME can be found in the Transportation Element, Goal TR-3 and Policies TR-P3.1, TR-P3.2, TR-P3.4, and TR-P4.2. Related Land Use Element Goal LU-5 and Page 408Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Growth Management Element 10-3 Policies LU-P2.5 and LU-P5.1 are also part of the policy framework that underlies the GME, and are integrally related to it. Goal GM-1. Policies GM-P1.1 Maintain in place a local program to mitigate development impacts on nonregional routes and other facilities to ensure that new growth pays its share of the costs associated with that estimated growth. Ensure revenue provided from this program is not used to replace private developer funding of any required improvements that have or would have been committed to any project. GM-P1.2 Participate in a regional development mitigation program to establish fees, exactions, assessments, or other mitigation measures to fund regional or subregional transportation improvements needed to mitigate the impacts of planned or forecast development on the regional transportation system. Actions GM-A1.1 Require development projects to provide local mitigation or fees as established for proposed new development. GM-A1.2 Require development projects to pay regional development mitigation fees established by the locally-applicable Regional Transportation Planning Committee(s) (RTPC) in accordance with the RTPC’s adopted program and CCTA’s policies. • TRANSPAC (Central County): Subregional Transportation Mitigation Program (STMP) • TRANSPLAN (East County): East Contra Costa Regional Fee and Financing Authority (ECCRFFA) • SWAT (Southwest County): Lamorinda Transportation Improvement Program (LTIP) • WCCTAC (West County): Subregional Transportation Mitigation Program (STMP) • TVTC: Tri-Valley Transportation Development Fee Program (TVTDF) GM-A1.3 Biennially prepare the seven-year Capital Road Improvement and Preservation Program (CRIPP) outlining capital projects sponsored by the County that are necessary to maintain and improve mobility and implement the transportation-related goals, policies, and actions of this Goal GM-1 New residential and nonresidential growth pay for the facilities required to meet the demands resulting from that growth. Page 409Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 10-4 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Growth Management Element General Plan. The CRIPP must include approved projects and an analysis of the costs of the proposed projects as well as a financial plan, including funding sources, for providing the improvements. Goal GM-2. Policies GM-P2.1 Participate in an ongoing and collaborative multi- jurisdictional planning process with other jurisdictions and agencies, the RTPCs, and the CCTA to create a balanced, safe, and efficient transportation system and manage the impacts of growth. GM-P2.2 Work with the RTPCs and CCTA to develop, update, and implement Action Plans for the network of designated Routes of Regional Significance (Figure TR-2 in the Transportation Element), set Regional Transportation Objectives (RTOs) for those routes, and identify actions for achieving the RTOs. The Action Plans must also include a process for reviewing and monitoring the traffic impacts of proposed new developments. GM-P2.3 Apply CCTA’s travel demand forecasting model and Technical Procedures to the analysis of General Plan amendments affecting land use or circulation and development projects that generate more than 100 peak- hour trips to determine their effects on the regional transportation system, and compliance with the applicable Action Plan Multimodal Transportation Service Objectives/Regional Transportation Objectives. GM-P2.4 Circulate traffic impact analyses to affected jurisdictions and the RTPCs for review and comment and cooperate in assessment and mitigation of traffic impacts in neighboring jurisdictions resulting from County actions. GM-P2.5 Work with the appropriate RTPCs to develop the mitigation program outlined in GM-A1.2. GM-P2.6 Participate in preparation of the CCTA’s Countywide Comprehensive Transportation Plan and the ongoing countywide transportation planning process. GM-P2.7 Help maintain the CCTA’s travel demand modeling system by providing information on proposed land uses, planned and approved development and transportation projects, and proposed improvements to the transportation system, including those projects the County has adopted as part of its seven-year CRIPP, and long-range plans relative to the Goal GM-2 Cooperative transportation and land use planning in Contra Costa County. Page 410Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Growth Management Element 10-5 Association of Bay Area Government’s (ABAG’s) projections for households and jobs within the unincorporated area. Actions GM-A2.1 Work with the RTPCs and CCTA to help develop other plans, programs, and studies to address transportation and growth management issues. GM-A2.2 Participate in the CCTA’s established conflict resolution process as needed to resolve disputes related to development and implementation of Action Plans and other programs described in the GME and other applicable General Plan Elements. Goal GM-3. Policies GM-P3.1 Consider the impacts that the County’s land use development policies have on the local, regional, and countywide transportation system, including the level of transportation capacity that can reasonably be provided. GM-P3.2 Through the development review process, support accommodation of transit, bicycle, and pedestrian access for new development by applying the County Transportation Analysis Guidelines, Complete Streets Policy, Active Transportation Plan, and related best practices. GM-P3.3 Demonstrate reasonable progress in providing housing opportunities for all income levels and demonstrate reasonable progress in meeting housing goals. GM-P3.4 Incorporate policies and standards into the development approval process that support transit, bicycle, and pedestrian access in new developments. GM-P3.5 Promote carpools, vanpools, other ridesharing, and park- and-ride lots by maintaining in place and enforcing a TDM ordinance that reflects best practices and, at a minimum, conforms to the CCTA’s adopted model TDM ordinance or resolution. GM-P3.6 Provide housing opportunities for all income levels by implementing the programs contained in the Housing Element. Goal GM-3 Land use patterns that make more efficient use of the transportation system. Page 411Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 10-6 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Growth Management Element Actions GM-A3.1 Submit a biennial report to the CCTA on implementation of actions outlined in the Housing Element as part of the biennial GMP Compliance Checklist. The report will demonstrate reasonable progress in providing housing opportunities for all income levels using one of the following methods: (a) Comparing the number of housing units approved, constructed, or occupied within the unincorporated county over the preceding five years with the number of units needed on average each year to meet the housing objectives established in the Housing Element; or (b) Illustrating how the County has adequately planned to meet the existing and projected housing needs through adoption of land use plans and regulatory systems that provide opportunities for, and do not unduly constrain, housing development; or (c) Illustrating how the County’s General Plan and zoning regulations facilitate improvement and development of sufficient housing to meet those objectives. GM-A3.2 Implement the County’s TDM Ordinance consistent with the GMP. Goal GM-4. Policies GM-P4.1 Maintain a voter-approved ULL as defined in the Principles of Agreement to the Measure J GMP (as amended by CCTA Ordinance 06-04), through March 31, 2034, the end of the Measure J sales tax. Enforce the ULL as stipulated in the Land Use Element. Goal GM-4 Infill and redevelopment in existing urban and brownfield areas. Page 412Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary 11-1 11 GLOSSARY . This glossary defines acronyms and abbreviations used in the General Plan and explains the technical terms used. Definitions come from several sources, including the California Office of Planning and Research; the California Institute for Local Government; and the American Planning Association Glossary of Zoning, Development, and Planning Terms. ABBREVIATIONS AAA: Area Agency on Aging (Contra Costa County) AARP: American Association of Retired Persons AB: Assembly Bill ABAG: Association of Bay Area Governments ADA: Americans with Disabilities Act ALUC: Airport Land Use Commission (Contra Costa County) ALUCP: Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (Contra Costa County) AQI: Air Quality Index ARPD: Ambrose Recreation and Park District BAAQMD: Bay Area Air Quality Management District BART: Bay Area Rapid Transit BBID: Byron-Bethany Irrigation District BIPOC: Black, Indigenous, and People of Color BOS: Board of Supervisors BSD: Byron Sanitary District BUSD: Byron Union School District CAL FIRE: California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection CAL OES: California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services CAO: County Administrator's Office CAP: Climate Action Plan CARB: California Air Resources Board CARE: Community Air Risk Evaluation CCCCD: Contra Costa Community College District CCCOE: Contra Costa County Office of Education CCCSD: Central Contra Costa Sanitary District CCCSO: Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office CCCWA: Contra Costa County Water Agency CCCFCWCD: Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District CCCFPD: Contra Costa County Fire Protection District Page 413Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 11-2 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary CCFPD: Crockett-Carquinez Fire Protection District CCHS: Contra Costa Health Services Department CCHSHMP: Contra Costa Health Services – Hazardous Materials Program CCRCD: Contra Costa Resource Conservation District CCWD: Contra Costa Water District CDPR: California Department of Parks and Recreation CEQA: California Environmental Quality Act CERT: Community Emergency Response Team CHP: California Highway Patrol CIP: Capital Improvement Program CNEL: Community Noise Equivalent Level CoC: Continuum of Care CRCWD: Castle Rock County Water District CSA: County Service Area or Community-Supported Agriculture CSD: Community Services District or Canyon School District CUPA: Certified Unified Program Agency dB: Decibel dBA: A-Weighted Sound Level DCD: Department of Conservation and Development (Contra Costa County) DNL: Day/Night Average Sound Level DOC: Department of Conservation (State) DPC: Delta Protection Commission DTSC: Department of Toxic Substances Control (State) du: Dwelling Unit du/acre: Dwelling Units Per Acre DWD: Diablo Water District DWR: Department of Water Resources (State) EBMUD: East Bay Municipal Utility District EBRPD: East Bay Regional Park District ECCID: East Contra Costa Irrigation District EIR: Environmental Impact Report EMS: Emergency Medical Service EOC: Emergency Operations Center (Contra Costa County) EOP: Emergency Operations Plan (Contra Costa County) EPA: Environmental Protection Agency (US) EV: Electric Vehicle FAR: Floor-Area Ratio FEMA: Federal Emergency Management Agency FHSZ: Fire Hazard Severity Zone FIRM: Flood Insurance Rate Map FMMP: Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program Page 414Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary 11-3 GHG: Greenhouse Gas GPA: General Plan Amendment GSA: Groundwater Sustainability Agency GSP: Groundwater Sustainability Plan HCP/NCCP: East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservation Plan/Natural Community Conservation Plan HHW: Household Hazardous Waste HOV: High-Occupancy Vehicle HUB Zone: Historically Underutilized Business Zone I-: Interstate IPM: Integrated Pest Management ISD: Ironhouse Sanitary District JSUSD: John Swett Unified School District KESD: Knightsen Elementary School District KFPD: Kensington Fire Protection District LAFCO: Local Agency Formation Commission LEED: Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Leq: Equivalent Sound Level LHMP Local Hazard Mitigation Plan LOS: Level of Service LUHSD: Liberty Union High School District MAC: Municipal Advisory Council MDUSD: Mt. Diablo Unified School District MOA: Military Operations Area MOFD: Moraga-Orinda Fire District MOTCO: Military Ocean Terminal Concord MOU: Memorandum of Understanding MRA: Mineral Resource Area MTC: Metropolitan Transportation Commission MVSD: Mt. View Sanitary District NAHC: Native American Heritage Commission NFIP: National Flood Insurance Program NHA: National Heritage Area NPDES: National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System NZE: Near-Zero Emissions OES: Office of Emergency Services (Contra Costa County) OSHA: Occupational Safety and Health Administration (US) Page 415Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 11-4 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary PCA: Priority Conservation Area PDA: Priority Development Area PG&E: Pacific Gas and Electric Company RHNA: Regional Housing Needs Allocation RHFPD: Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District RSD: Rodeo Sanitary District RTP: Regional Transportation Plan RWQCB: Regional Water Quality Control Board SB: Senate Bill SMARA: Surface Mining and Reclamation Act (State) SMGB: State Mining and Geology Board SOI: Sphere of Influence SR-: State Route SRVFPD: San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District SSD: Stege Sanitary District SWRCB: State Water Resources Control Board TAC: Toxic Air Contaminant TDM: Transportation Demand Management ULL: Urban Limit Line USDA: United States Department of Agriculture USFWS: United States Fish and Wildlife Service USGS: United States Geological Survey VMT: Vehicle Miles Traveled WCCUSD: West Contra Costa Unified School District WCWD: West County Wastewater District ZEV: Zero-Emissions Vehicle TERMINOLOGY Acceptable Risk. A hazard that is deemed a tolerable exposure to danger given the expected benefits. The level of loss, injury, or destruction below which no specific action by local government is deemed necessary other than making the risk known. Different levels of acceptable risk may be assigned according to the potential danger and the critical nature of the threatened structure. The levels may range from “near zero” for nuclear plants and natural gas transmission lines to “moderate” for farm structures and low-intensity warehouse uses. Acreage, Gross. The land area that exists prior to any dedications for public use, health, and safety purposes. Page 416Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary 11-5 Acreage, Net. The portion of a site that can actually be built upon, which is the land area remaining after dedication of ultimate rights-of-way and utility easements for: • Exterior boundary streets • Floodways • Public parks and other open space developed to meet minimum standards required by County ordinance Action. A measure, procedure, or technique that helps the County achieve a specific goal. An action is something concrete that can and will be completed. (see “Goal”) Active Transportation Plan. A plan to enhance safety and mode share for active transportation, which comprises any self-propelled, human-powered travel, such as walking and bicycling. Adaptation. Making changes in response to current or future conditions (such as the increased frequency and intensity of climate-related hazards), usually to reduce harm and take advantage of new opportunities. Adapting to Rising Tides. A program of the San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission to “provide staff support, guidance, tools, and information to help agencies and organizations understand, communicate, and begin to resolve complex climate change issues.”1 Adaptive Capacity. The “combination of the strengths, attributes, and resources available to an individual, community, society, or organization that 1 Adapting to Rising Tides, “About Us,” https://www.adaptingtorisingtides.org/about/, accessed June 15, 2023. 2 Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, “Annex II: Glossary,” ed. K. J. Mach, S. Planton, and C. von Stechow, in Climate Change 2014: Synthesis Report, ed. Core Writing Team, R. K. Pachauri, and L. A. Meyer (Geneva, Switzerland: IPCC, 2014), p. 117–130, https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar5/syr/. can be used to prepare for and undertake actions to reduce adverse impacts, moderate harm, or exploit beneficial opportunities.”2 Adverse Impact. A negative consequence for the physical, social, or economic environment resulting from an action or project. Agricultural Tourism. Tourism that involves guests visiting working farms and ranches to observe and learn about farming practices and purchase locally grown products. Air Quality Index. An index used by the US Environmental Protection Agency to report daily air quality for five major air pollutants regulated by the Clean Air Act: ground-level ozone, particulate matter, carbon monoxide, sulfer dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide. Archaeological Resource. Material evidence of past human activity found below the surface of ground or water, portions of which may be visible above the surface. Asset. A valued feature of a community that may be harmed by climate change. Assets may include buildings, infrastructure, community services, ecosystems, and economic drivers. Benefit Assessment District. A financing mechanism established to provide public infrastructure to a defined area. Property owners within the district (i.e., the area that receives the benefit) pay an assessment to cover the cost of constructing or maintaining the public facility. Page 417Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 11-6 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary Bike Lane (Class II facility). A corridor expressly reserved for bicycles, existing on a street or roadway in addition to lanes for use by motorized vehicles. Bike Path (Class I facility). A paved route, not on a street or roadway, expressly reserved for bicycles traversing an otherwise unpaved area. Bicycle paths may be parallel to roads but are typically separated from them by landscaping. Bike Route (Class III facility). A roadway shared with motorists and identified only by signs. A bicycle route has no pavement markings or lane stripes. Bikeway. A term that encompasses “bike lanes,” “bike paths,” “bike routes,” and “separated bikeways.” Buffer. An area established between potentially conflicting land uses, which, depending on the potential impact, may use landscaping or structural barriers such as setbacks or roads. Building. A habitable structure. (see “Structure”) Building Code. Standards adopted by the State governing the construction, alteration, demolition, occupancy, or other use of buildings used for human habitation. The State regulations are substantially the same as those contained in the most recent editions of the Uniform Building Code, Uniform Housing Code, Uniform Plumbing Code, Uniform Mechanical Code, and the National Electric Code. Local governments may have stricter standards under certain circumstances. Buildout. Development of land to its full potential, or theoretical capacity, as permitted under current or proposed planning or zoning designations. California Environmental Quality Act. Legislation and corresponding procedural components established in 1970 by the State of California to require environmental review for projects anticipated to result in adverse impacts to the environment. (see “Environmental Impact Report”) Capital Improvement Program. A program that schedules permanent improvements, usually for a minimum of five years in the future, that fits the projected fiscal capability of the local jurisdiction. The program generally is reviewed on an annual basis for conformance to and consistency with the General Plan. Carbon Neutral. Reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to zero, either by entirely eliminating all GHG emissions or by balancing out all remaining GHG emissions through carbon removal practices so that the "net" emissions are zero. Carbon Sequestration. The process of storing carbon dioxide in locations other than the atmosphere, where it cannot contribute to climate change or ocean acidification. For the purposes of this plan, carbon sequestration refers to the storage of atmospheric carbon in vegetation, soils, woody products, and aquatic environments. Carrying Capacity. Used in determining the potential of an area to absorb development: (1) The level of land use, human activity, or development for a specific area that can be permanently accommodated without an irreversible change in the quality of air, water, land, or plant and animal habitats. (2) The upper limits of development beyond which the quality of human life, health, welfare, safety, or community character within an area will be impaired. (3) The maximum level of development allowable under current zoning. (see “Buildout”) Class 1 Soil: Soil with slight limitations that restrict its use for agriculture, as defined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service Land Use Capability Classification. This ranking represents both irrigated and nonirrigated land, unless otherwise specified as such in the ranking. Page 418Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary 11-7 Class 2 Soil: Soil with moderate limitations that reduce the choice of plants or require moderate conservation practices for agriculture, as defined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service Land Use Capability Classification. This ranking represents both irrigated and nonirrigated land, unless otherwise specified as such in the ranking. Clean Air Refuge. A building with efficient air filtration and improved air quality that is opened to community members during poor air quality days. Climate Change. A change in the state of the climate that can be identified by changes in the mean and/or the variability of its properties, and that persists for an extended period, typically decades or longer. In the context of this plan, this term refers to changes brought on by human activities. Climate Justice. The concept that no group of people should disproportionately bear the burden of climate impacts or the costs of mitigation and adaptation. Community Facilities District. A special district established by a local agency to finance tax-exempt bonds for public services or the planning, design, acquisition, construction, or operation of public facilities. Special taxes levied within the district are used to repay the bonds. Community Noise Equivalent Level. A 24-hour energy equivalent level derived from a variety of single-noise events, with weighting factors of 5 and 10 A-weighted decibels (dBA) applied to the evening (7 p.m. to 10 p.m.) and nighttime (10 p.m. to 7 a.m.) periods, respectively, to allow for the greater sensitivity to noise during these hours. Community Resource Centers. Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) facilities that are open to the public during Public Safety Power Shutoff events, offering air-conditioning or heating, ice, restrooms and hand-washing stations, medical equipment charging, device charging, Wi-Fi, bottled water, and snacks. Community-Supported Agriculture. A community of individuals who pledge support to a farm operation so that the farmland becomes, either legally or cooperatively, the community's farm, with the growers and consumers providing mutual support and sharing the risks and benefits of food production. Typically, members or “share-holders” of the farm or garden pledge in advance to cover the anticipated costs of the farm operation and farmer’s salary. Compatible. Capable of existing together without significant conflict or ill effects. Complete Street. A transportation facility that is planned, designed, constructed, operated, and maintained to provide comfortable and convenient mobility, and improve accessibility and connectivity to essential community destinations for all users and abilities, regardless of whether they are travelling as pedestrians, bicyclists, public transportation riders, or drivers. Complete streets are especially attuned to the needs of people walking, using assistive mobility devices, rolling, biking, and riding transit. Conservation. The management and use of natural resources in a sustainable manner. Conservation results in land and water areas that are durably protected and managed to sustain functional ecosystems, both intact and restored, and the diversity of life they support. Conserve. To manage natural resources sustainably. County Service Area. A special district in an unincorporated area formed to fund a public service that the County would not otherwise be able to fund through traditional sources, like property or sales tax. County Service Areas are governed by the County Board of Supervisors and funded by a direct assessment paid by property owners who benefit from the services provided. Page 419Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 11-8 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary Critical Facility. A facility whose continued functioning is necessary to maintain public health and safety following a disaster, and where damage or failure could pose hazards to life and property well beyond their immediate vicinity. Cultural Resource. A historic, archaeological, tribal, or paleontological resource or human remains. Cultural resources include tribal cultural resources, as defined in California Public Resources Code Section 21074, regardless of whether a tribe is federally recognized. Cumulative Impact. As used in CEQA, the total environmental impact resulting from the accumulated impacts of individual projects or programs over time. Decibel. A unit used to express the relative intensity of a sound as it is heard by the human ear. The lowest volume a normal ear can detect under laboratory conditions is 0 decibel (dB), the threshold of human hearing. Since the decibel scale is logarithmic, 10 decibels are 10 times more intense and 20 decibels are 100 times more intense than 1 db. dBA. The “A-weighted” scale for measuring sound in decibels, which weighs or reduces the effects of low and high frequencies to simulate human hearing. Every increase of 10 dBA doubles the perceived loudness, even though the noise is actually 10 times more intense. Dedication. The turning over by an owner or developer of private land for public use, and the acceptance of land for such use by the governmental agency having jurisdiction over the public function for which it will be used. Dedications for roads, parks, school sites, or other public uses are often required by a city or county as conditions for approval of a development. (see “In-Lieu Fee”) Density. The number of permanent residential dwelling units per acre of land (du/acre). Densities specified in this General Plan are expressed in dwelling units per net acreage, which excludes any land dedications, and not per gross acre. (see “Acreage, Gross” and “Acreage, Net”) Development Review; Design Review. The comprehensive evaluation of a development and its impact on neighboring properties and the community as a whole, from the standpoint of site and landscape design, architecture, materials, colors, lighting, and signs, in accordance with a set of adopted criteria and standards. Development. The physical extension and/or construction of non-farm land uses. Development activities include subdivision of land; construction or alteration of structures, roads, utilities, and other facilities; installation of septic systems; grading; deposit of refuse, debris, or fill materials; and clearing of natural vegetative cover (with the exception of agricultural activities). The construction of a single-family home on an existing lot, and routine repair and maintenance activities, are not considered development. Disabled Person. A person determined to have a physical impairment or mental disorder, which is expected to be of a long, continued, or indefinite duration and is of such a nature that the person’s ability to live independently could be improved by more suitable housing conditions. Duplex. A free-standing house divided into two separate living units or residences, usually having separate entrances. Dwelling Unit. The place of customary abode of a person or household, which is either considered to be real property under State law or cannot be easily moved. Ecologically Significant Resource Area. Land containing unique, representative, and/or sensitive habitats, communities, or ecological processes. Page 420Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary 11-9 Ecosystem. An interacting system formed by a biotic community and its physical environment. Emergency Shelter. A facility that provides immediate short-term housing and supplemental services for homeless people. Supplemental services may include food, counseling, and access to other programs. Enhanced Infrastructure Financing Districts. An economic development district that uses local property taxes to fund public and private projects that provide a benefit to the district. The district obtains funding for community projects through incremental tax. Tax increment financing works by “freezing tax revenues from a tax rate area in the interim base year and diverting forecasted tax revenue in future years (known as increment) to pay for improvements and/or pay back bonds.”3 Environmental Impact Report. A study required pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act that assesses all the environmental characteristics of an area, determines what effects or impacts will result if the area is altered or disturbed by a proposed action, and identifies alternatives or other measures to avoid or reduce those impacts. (see “California Environmental Quality Act”) Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG). The implementation of a governance structure and reporting system that evaluates a company's performance related to environmental and social factors that go beyond the company’s duty to maximize profits. Environmental metrics may include how well a company performs related to conserving energy, water, and other natural resources; protecting ecosystems and biodiversity; reducing carbon emissions; mitigating climate change; and promoting resilience. Social metrics include factors such as whether a company is union-friendly, 3 State of California, “Enhanced Infrastructure Financing Districts (EIFDs),” https://opzones.ca.gov/enhanced-infrastructure-financing-districts-eifds/, accessed June 15, 2023. provides fair pay and leave, prioritizes worker health and safety, and proactively seeks a diverse workforce. Governance refers to how the company manages both the environmental and social aspects of its policies, programs, and reporting. Equity. The state in which each individual or group is allocated the resources needed to reach an equal outcome. Evacuation Route. A roadway designated in the General Plan as a potential recommended route to travel when evacuating from a hazardous condition. Explosive. Any substance or combination of substances, the primary purpose of which is detonation or rapid combustion. (California Health and Safety Code) Exposure. The presence of people, infrastructure, natural systems, and economic, cultural, and social resources in areas that are subject to harm. Extreme Event. When a weather or climate variable exceeds the upper or lower thresholds of its observed range. Extreme Heat. Temperatures that are hotter than 98 percent of the historical high temperatures for the area, as measured between the months of April and October during the period between 1961 and 1990. Across Contra Costa County, the extreme heat threshold is 96.6 degrees Fahrenheit (°F), although it varies from 87.1°F in Kensington to 102.4°F in Byron. Farmers Market. A mobile or non-mobile market: (1) operated by a local government agency, one or more certified producers, or a nonprofit organization; (2) certified by and operating in a location approved by the County Agricultural Commissioner; and (3) where farmers sell directly to Page 421Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 11-10 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary consumers agricultural products or processed products made from agricultural products that the farmers grow themselves. Fault. A fracture in the earth’s crust that forms a boundary between rock masses that have shifted. Fire Hazard Severity Zone. An area of significant fire hazard based on fuels, terrain, weather, and other relevant hazards. Flood, 100-Year. In any given year, a flood that has a 1 percent likelihood (a 1 in 100 chance) of occurring, and is recognized as a standard for acceptable risk. Also known as the “base flood.” Flood, 200-Year. In any given year, a flood that has a 0.5 percent likelihood (a 1 in 200 chance) of occurring. Senate Bill 5 requires a 200-year level of flood protection for urban communities in the Central Valley. Flood, 500-Year. In any given year, a flood that has a 0.2 percent likelihood (a 1 in 500 chance) of occurring. Floodplain. The relatively level land area on either side of the banks of a stream regularly subject to flooding. Floodway. The part of the floodplain capable of conveying the 100-year flood with no more than a 1-foot rise in water. The floodway includes the river channel itself and adjacent land areas. Floor Area Ratio (FAR). The gross floor area of a building in square feet divided by gross land area, expressed as a decimal number. For example, a 60,000-square-foot building on a 120,000-square-foot parcel would have a floor area ratio of 0.50. The FAR is used in calculating the building intensity of nonresidential development. Garden, Demonstration or Educational. Gardens operated by community organizations or educational institutions to serve an educational function, such as teaching school children about vegetables or agriculture, or assisting property owners with drought-tolerant or fire-resistant landscaping choices. Gateway. A unique transition point in topography or land use that serves as an entrance to a region of the county. General Plan. A compendium of County policies regarding its long-term development, in the form of maps and accompanying text. The General Plan is a legal document required of each local agency by the State of California Government Code Section 65301 and adopted by the Board of Supervisors. Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Inventory. A quantified list of a community’s GHG emissions and sources. Gleaning. Food recovery through collecting or harvesting of otherwise unused food for distribution to those in need. Goal. A description of the general desired result sought by the County. Each goal has one or more policies and/or actions associated with the goal. (see “Policy” and “Action”) Graywater. Untreated wastewater that has not been affected by infectious, contaminated, or unhealthy bodily wastes and does not present a threat from contamination by unhealthful processing, manufacturing, or operating wastes. Green Benefit District. A special district that provides additional maintenance and capital improvements for a variety of neighborhood enhancements, such as parks and open space, beautification, and sidewalks, beyond what is already provided by the local agency. Green Benefit Districts are funded by a direct assessment paid by property owners who benefit from the services provided. Green Infrastructure. Stormwater management systems that filter and absorb stormwater where it falls. These systems use plants, soil, and Page 422Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary 11-11 stormwater capture and reuse to store, infiltrate, or evapotranspirate stormwater and reduce flows to wastewater systems or surface waters. Greenhouse Gas (GHG). A gas that allows sunlight to pass through but reflect heat radiated from the earth’s surface, trapping heat in the lower atmosphere. Common GHGs include water vapor, carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O). They may be emitted by natural or human processes. Groundwater. Water that exists beneath the earth’s surface, typically found between saturated soils and rock, and is used to supply wells and springs. Growth Management. Ensuring that future residential, business, and commercial growth pays for the facilities required to meet the demands resulting from that growth. Habitat. The physical location or type of environment in which an organism or biological population lives or occurs. Hazard. An event or physical condition that has the potential to cause fatalities, injuries, property damage, infrastructure damage, agricultural losses, damage to the environment, interruption of business, or other types of harm or loss. Hazard Mitigation. Sustained action taken to reduce or eliminate the long- term risk to human life and property through actions that reduce hazard, exposure, and vulnerability. Hazardous Material, Hazardous Waste: A substance or waste that, because of its physical, chemical, or other characteristics, may pose a risk of 4 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Health Equity,” https://www.cdc.gov/healthequity/whatis/index.html#:~:text=Health%20equity%20is%20the%20state,health%20and%20health%20care%3B%20and, accessed June 15, 2023. endangering human health or safety or of degrading the environment. This does not include household hazardous waste, universal waste, or electronic waste, as they do not contain the quantity, concentration, and/or types of products significant enough to pose a substantial risk to human health and safety or to the environment. Hazardous Waste Facility. All contiguous land and structures, or other appurtenances, and improvements on land used for the treatment, transfer, storage, resource recovery, disposal, or recycling of hazardous waste that require a Deparment of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) permit for treatment, storage, and disposal facilities (i.e., treatment, storage, and disposal facility [TSDF] permit). Health Equity. The state in which everyone has a fair and just opportunity to attain their highest level of health.4 Heat Wave. An event with five extreme heat days in a row. Household. All persons occupying one dwelling unit. HUB Zone. A program that helps small businesses gain preferential access to federal supportive services and opportunities. Impact, Climate. The effects (especially the negative effects) of a hazard or other condition associated with climate change. Impact Fee. A fee charged to a developer by a jurisdiction according to the proposed development project, typically by number of units, square footage, or acreage. The fee is often used to offset costs incurred by the municipality Page 423Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 11-12 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary for services and infrastructure such as schools, roads, police and fire services, and parks. Impacted Community. An area, typically low-income, that is disproportionately affected by environmental pollution and other hazards that can lead to negative health effects, exposure, or environmental degradation. This is the term Contra Costa County uses in place of “disadvantaged communities,” as named in Senate Bill (SB) 1000. SB 1000 defines disadvantaged communities per Heath and Safety Code Section 39711, specifying CalEnviroScreen as the primary screening method for identifying these communities. In this General Plan, Census tracts with a cumulative CalEnviroScreen score of 72 or higher are considered to be Impacted Communities. Impervious Surface. Surface through which water cannot penetrate, such as a roof, road, sidewalk, or paved parking lot. The amount of impervious surface increases with development and establishes the need for drainage facilities to carry the increased runoff. Implementation. Actions, procedures, programs, or techniques that carry out a plan. Infill Development. Development that occurs on vacant or underutilized land within areas that are already largely developed. In-Lieu Fee. Cash payments that may be required of an owner or developer as a substitute for a dedication of land for public use, usually calculated in dollars per lot, and referred to as in-lieu fees or in-lieu contributions. (see “Dedication”) Land Use. The occupation or use of an area of land for any human activity or purpose. Land Use Designation. One particular category in a classification series of appropriate use of properties established by the General Plan Land Use Element. Land Use Permit. The discretionary and conditional review of an activity or function or operation on a site or in a building or facility. Landslide. Movement of soil and/or rock down a slope, which typically occurs during an earthquake or following heavy rainfall. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED). A voluntary, consensus-based national standard for developing and rating high- performance, sustainable “green” buildings. LEED provides a complete framework for assessing building performance and meeting sustainability goals, such as water savings, energy-efficiency, materials selection, and indoor environmental quality. LEED standards are currently available or under development for new commercial construction and major renovation projects, existing building operations, commercial interiors projects, core and shell projects, and homes. Leq, Equivalent Sound Level. The average of sound energy occurring over a specified period. The Leq is equivalent to the same average acoustical energy as the time-varying sound that actually occurs during a specified period. Level of Service (Traffic). A scale that measures the amount of traffic that a roadway or intersection can accommodate, based on such factors as maneuverability, driver dissatisfaction, and delay. Liquefaction. The transformation of loose, wet soil from a solid to a liquid state, often as a result of ground shaking during an earthquake. Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO). A five- or seven-member commission within each county that reviews and evaluates all proposals for Page 424Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary 11-13 formation of special districts, incorporation of cities, annexation to special districts or cities, consolidation of districts, and merger of districts with cities. Each county’s LAFCO is empowered to approve, disapprove, or conditionally approve such proposals. Major Project. A General Plan amendment, rezoning, major subdivision, or nonresidential development of 25,000 square feet or more. (see “Subdivision, Major”) Micromobility/Microtransit. Transportation via small, lightweight vehicles operated by the driver, such as electric scooters and bicycles. Vehicles typically do not exceed 15 miles per hour and are often available for rent for short-range travel within a defined area. Military Operations Areas. A three-dimensional airspace designated for military training and transport activities that have a defined floor (minimum altitude) and ceiling (maximum altitude). Mitigation. Modification to avoid, reduce, minimize, or eliminate a negative impact. There are various types of mitigation, including environmental impact mitigation, hazard mitigation, GHG emissions mitigation, and more. Mixed Use. Any mixture of land uses, including mixtures of residences with commercial, offices with retail, or visitor accommodation with offices and retail. As distinguished from a single-use land use designation or zone, mixed use refers to an authorized variety of uses for buildings and structures in a particular area. Mobile Home. A structure, transportable in one or more sections, built on a permanent chassis and designed for use as a single-family dwelling unit and which: (1) has a minimum of 400 square feet of living space; (2) has a minimum width in excess of 102 inches; (3) is connected to all available permanent utilities; and (4) is tied down (a) to a permanent foundation on a lot either owned or leased by the homeowner or (b) is set on piers, with wheels removed and skirted, in a mobile home park. Mobile Home Park. A parcel of land under one owner that has been planned and improved for the placement of two or more mobile homes for rental purposes for nontransient use. Mode Share. The percentage of travelers using a certain type of transportation, such as walking, biking, taking transit, or driving a vehicle. Municipality. An incorporated city or town. Natural and Working Lands. Lands not covered by buildings or structures, including forests, grasslands, shrublands, woodlands, rangelands, farmlands, wetlands, coastal areas, and the green spaces in urban and built environments. These lands provide food and fiber, clean air, water, and other resources and benefits. Near Zero-Emissions Vehicle. A vehicle that uses zero-emission technologies, enables technologies that provide a pathway to zero-emissions operations, or incorporates other technologies that significantly reduce criteria pollutants, toxic air contaminants, and GHG emissions. (California Health and Safety Code Section 44258(c)) Neighborhood. Relatively large residential areas that have some common characteristics, such as a common history, common physical characteristics (e.g., architectural style), a common meeting place, or more intangible characteristics (e.g., a psychological sense of cohesion), or clear physical boundaries (e.g., waterways or major roads). Neighborhood Kitchen. A shared, commercial-scale kitchen space that is organized by a neighborhood or community group to facilitate safe food production by community members, such as for soup kitchens, community events, or small-scale cottage food industry operations. Page 425Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 11-14 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary Neighborhood-Serving Retail Use. A small-scale business providing goods and services necessary for the day-to-day maintenance of a household (e.g., butchers or bakers). Noise Contour. A line connecting points of equal noise level as measured on the same scale. Noise-Sensitive Use. A location where people reside or where the presence of unwanted sound could adversely affect the use of land, such as residences, schools, and hospitals. Non-Conforming Use. A use that was valid when brought into existence, but no longer permitted by later regulation. “Non-conforming use” is a generic term and includes: (1) non-conforming structures (because their size, type of construction, location on land, or proximity to other structures is no longer permitted); (2) non-conforming use of a conforming building; (3) non- conforming use of a non-conforming building; and (4) non-conforming use of land. Any use lawfully existing on any piece of property that is inconsistent with a new or amended General Plan, and that in turn is a violation of a Zoning Ordinance amendment subsequently adopted in conformance with the General Plan, will be a non-conforming use. Typically, non-conforming uses are permitted to continue, subject to certain restrictions. Non-Essential Idling. Operation of a vehicle while it is stationary when none of the following circumstances are met: the vehicle is stuck in traffic; idling is necessary to inspect or service the vehicle; the vehicle is transferring power via a power-takeoff device; the vehicle can’t move due to adverse weather conditions or mechanical failure; the vehicle is a bus with passengers on board. See California Code of Regulations, Title 13, Section 2485 for a full definition. On-Site Wastewater Treatment System. A multi-stage system that collects, treats, and disperses wastewater generated on an individual site. On-site wastewater treatment systems typically include a septic tank and disposal field. Opportunity Zone. Economically distressed communities that have experienced a lack of investment for decades, defined by the federal government by Census tract. These areas may qualify for preferential tax treatment on new investments to incentivize investment in the community. Overlay. A land use or zoning designation that modifies the basic underlying designation or designations in some specific manner. Parcel. A lot, or contiguous group of lots, in single ownership or under single control, usually considered a unit for purposes of development. Planned Unit Development. A description of a proposed unified development, consisting at a minimum of a map and adopted ordinance setting forth the governing regulations, and the location and phasing of all proposed uses and improvements to be included in the development. Pocket Park. A small park, typically less than a quarter acre in size. Policy. A specific statement that guides decision making as the County works to achieve a goal. Policies represent statements of County regulation and set the standards used by decision makers when considering proposed development and actions. A policy is ongoing and requires no further action (see “Goal”). Protected Open Space. Natural habitat and other open space areas that are protected from development by ownership, deed restrictions, conservation easements, land dedications, and/or or other techniques. Reach Code. A local municipal code that exceeds the State Building Code requirements. A reach code must be at least as stringent as the State Code, cost-effective, approved by the California Energy Commission, and updated and re-approved with each State Energy Code update. Page 426Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary 11-15 Remediation. Restoration of contaminated areas to protect human health and the environment. Resilience. The capacity of any entity—an individual, community, organization, or natural system—to prepare for disruptions, recover from shocks and stresses, and adapt and grow from a disruptive experience. Community resilience is the ability of communities to withstand, recover, and learn from past disasters to strengthen future response and recovery efforts. Resilience Center. A well-used community-serving facility with year-round programming that also provides local communities with shelter, water, and electricity during hazardous events or disasters. Riparian. A habitat and vegetation zone that is associated with the banks and floodplains of a river, stream, or lake. Riparian trees and shrubs are typically phreatophytes, plants whose root systems are in constant contact with groundwater. Risk. The potential for damage or loss created by the interaction of hazards with assets such as buildings, infrastructure, or natural and cultural resources. Safe Routes to Schools. Pedestrian and bicycling routes that provide safe access to and from schools. Scenic Corridor. Land that is visible from, adjacent to, and outside a roadway right-of-way, and is made up primarily of scenic and natural features. Topography, vegetation, viewing distance, and/or jurisdictional lines determine the corridor boundaries. Sea-Level Rise. The worldwide average rise in mean sea level, which may be due to a number of different causes, such as the thermal expansion of sea water and the addition of water to the oceans from the melting of glaciers, ice caps, and ice sheets. Seniors. People 65 years of age or older. Sensitive Receptor. A use that is highly sensitive to impacts from other uses, including homes, schools, playgrounds, sports fields, childcare centers, senior centers, hospitals, and long-term health care facilities. Sensitivity. The level to which a species, natural system, community, or government would be affected by changing climate conditions. Separated Bikeway (Class IV facility). A bikeway for the exclusive use of bicycles that are physically separated from vehicle traffic. (Also called cycle tracks and protected bikeways.) (see also “Bikeway”) Severe Ground Shaking. Intense ground movement resulting from the transmission of seismic waves during an earthquake. Social Vulnerability. The susceptibility of a given population to harm from exposure to a hazard, directly affecting its ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover. Specific Plan. Under Article 8 of the Government Code (Section 65450 et seq.), a legal tool for detailed design and implementation of a defined portion of the area covered by a General Plan. A specific plan may include all detailed regulations, conditions, programs, and/or proposed legislation that may be necessary or convenient for the systematic implementation of any General Plan element(s). Sphere of Influence. The probable physical boundaries and service area of a municipality or special district, as determined by the Local Agency Formation Commission of the county. Page 427Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 11-16 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary State Responsibility Area. The area where the State of California has primary financial responsibility for the prevention and response to wildland fires. Strip commercial. A linear pattern of retail businesses along a major roadway, usually characterized by single-story buildings with prominent parking lots visible from the roadway, multiple driveways, large signs, and a dependency on automobiles for access and circulation. Structure. Anything constructed or erected on and permanently attached to land and with a roof supported by columns or walls, except buildings intended for human occupancy. (see “Building”) Subdivision. The division of any unit or units of improved or unimproved land for the purpose of sale, lease, or financing. Major subdivisions yield five or more lots, while minor subdivisions yield four lots or fewer. Substandard. A housing condition that endangers the life, limb, property, safety, or welfare of the occupants or general public. Sustainability. Meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Sustainable Streets. “Multimodal rights-of-way designed and operated to create benefits relating to movement, ecology, and community that together support a broad sustainability agenda embracing the three Es: environment, equity, and economy.”5 Townhouse/Townhome. A series of residences, often two to three stories in height, that are connected side by side in a row, each having a separate street-level entrance. 5 Greenberg, Ellen J., “Sustainable Streets: Foundations for an Emerging Practice,” 2009, Washington, DC: Transportation Research Board 88th Annual Meeting. Toxic Air Contaminant. An air pollutant that may cause or contribute to an increase in serious illness, or that may pose a present or potential hazard to human health, according to California Health and Safety Code Section 39655. Traffic Calming. Measures designed to reduce motor vehicle speeds and to encourage pedestrian use, including narrow streets, tight turning radii, sidewalk bulbouts, parking bays, textured paving at intersections, and parkways between sidewalks and streets. Triplex. A free-standing house divided into three separate living units or residences, usually having separate entrances. Unincorporated Area. Encompasses properties that are outside of municipalities. Development in the unincorporated area is subject to County jurisdiction. Universal Waste. Hazardous substances that are widely produced by households and many different types of businesses, including batteries, pesticides, mercury-containing equipment, lamps, and aerosol cans. Unstable Slope. A very steep hillside that does not have a substantial root system and/or soil type to prevent landslides or other geologic hazards. Urban Agriculture. The practice of growing and processing fresh food in an urban area. Urban Heat Island. The phenomenon in which large urban areas experience higher temperatures, greater pollution, and more negative health impacts during hot months due to a combination of heat-absorptive surfaces, heat- generating activities, and the absence of vegetation. Page 428Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary 11-17 Urban Limit Line. A political boundary approved by Contra Costa County voters to limit urban development to defined areas of the county while preserving farmland, watersheds, and open space outside those areas. Use. The purpose for which a lot or structure is or may be leased, occupied, maintained, arranged, designed, intended, constructed, erected, moved, altered, and/or enlarged in accordance with the County Zoning Ordinance and General Plan land use designations. Utility Corridor. Rights-of-way or easements for utility lines on either publicly or privately owned property. Vertiport. A faciity or area designated for use by electric, hydrogen, or hybrid vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft. Vulnerability. The degree to which natural, built, and human systems are susceptible “…to harm from exposure to stresses associated with environmental and social change and from the absence of capacity to adapt.”6 Vulnerability Assessment. An analysis of how a changing climate may harm a community and which elements—people, buildings and structures, resources, and other assets—are most vulnerable to its effects based on an assessment of exposure, sensitivity, the potential impact(s), and the community’s adaptive capacity. Wastewater. Water that contains other elements, such as excess water from drainage or piping systems, small pathogens, organic matter, and inorganic contaminants. This term is also used to refer to water generated in industrial plants and commercial activity. 6 Neil Adger, “Vulnerability,” Global Environmental Change 16 (2006): 268–281, https://www.geos.ed.ac.uk/~nabo/meetings/glthec/materials/simpson/GEC_sdarticle2.pdf Wetland. An area that is inundated or saturated by surface water or groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient to support a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions, commonly known as hydrophytic vegetation. Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI). An area that includes houses and wildland vegetation, creating a significant threat to human life or property from wildfires. The WUI is comprised of three distinct zones: 1. The intermix zone contains housing development or improved parcels interspersed in an area dominated by wildland vegetation subject to wildfire. 2. The interface zone contains dense housing next to vegetation that can burn in a wildfire, but is not dominated by wildland vegetation. 3. The influence zone contains wildfire-susceptible vegetation within 1.5 miles from the intermix and interface zones. Xeriscape. Landscaping with an emphasis on water conservation and efficiency. Zero Emission Vehicle. A vehicle that does not produce emissions when in operation, including battery-electric vehicles and hydrogen fuel-cell electric vehicles. Zoning. The division of a county by ordinance or other legislative regulation into districts or zones that specify allowable uses for real property and size restrictions for buildings constructed in these areas. Zoning implements the land use policies of the General Plan. Page 429Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 11-18 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Glossary This page intentionally left blank. Page 430Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme A -1 A. SUMMARY OF POLICIES AND ACTIONS BY THEME ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE STRONGER COMMUNITIES ELEMENT Policy SC-P1.1 In partnership with residents of Impacted Communities, affected workers, business/industry, environmental and environmental justice advocates, community colleges, workforce development and training entities, local government, and other involved agencies, support transition from petroleum refining and other highly polluting industries to a net-zero emission economy based on renewable and sustainable industries that provide living-wage jobs. Policy SC-P1.2 Streamline the permitting process for new development, redevelopment, and rehabilitation that promotes community objectives in Impacted Communities, as identified in the Community Profiles. Policy SC-P1.3 Support development of walkable districts that provide a range of neighborhood-serving retail and service uses, public amenities, and related infrastructure (such as lighting) to residents of Impacted Communities within walking distance of their homes. Policy SC-P1.4 Support cultural and community-driven events, such as art festivals, farmers’ markets, and community service days, that support social connections, neighborhood identity, and environmental stewardship. Policy SC-P1.5 Maintain a streamlined process to permit and facilitate partial and temporary street closures for community-driven amenities and activities, such as parklets, farmers’ markets, arts and cultural events, and outdoor dining, and assist applicants through the permit process. Policy SC-P1.6 For projects negatively affecting an Impacted Community, support community benefits agreements (CBAs) negotiated with the project applicant to address the community’s expressed needs. The primary objective of these CBAs is to mitigate project impacts to the greatest extent possible, which could include mitigations exceeding the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Secondarily, to compensate for impacts that cannot be fully mitigated, these CBAs should secure community benefits that exceed inherent project benefits and support the community’s objectives, especially as identified in the Community Profile. Neighborhood-serving retail uses that fill critical needs are exempt from this policy. Page 431Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 A -2 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme Policy SC-P1.7 Should a community no longer meet the threshold for designation as an Impacted Community during the 5-year review called for in Action SC-A1.7, examine the factors that contributed to the redesignation and determine whether continued action is needed to support the community in retaining its non-Impacted Community status. Action SC-A1.1 Partner with the stakeholders identified in Policy SC-P1.1 to develop and implement a plan to transition from petroleum-refining and other highly polluting industries to renewable, sustainable, and clean industries that provide living-wage jobs. The plan should address site remediation responsibilities along with timelines and strategies to improve health, safety, infrastructure, job opportunities, and revenue opportunities during the transition toward a net-zero-emission economy, paying special attention to developing new opportunities for Impacted Communities to realize economic, health, educational, and other benefits. Action SC-A1.2 Amend County Ordinance Code Chapter 84-63, Land Use Permits for Development Projects Involving Hazardous Waste or Hazardous Materials, to: (a) Increase the hazard scores for projects with potential to adversely affect Impacted Communities to ensure more projects are subject to discretionary review. (b) Address ambiguities and antiquated terminology that complicate administration of the ordinance. (c) Require preparation of a plan to prevent and remediate any contaminant releases, along with bonds or other financial assurances that guarantee remediation plans are implemented, for projects in areas subject to sea-level rise or tsunami inundation. Action SC-A1.3 With input from residents of Impacted Communities, amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 - Zoning to create an Impacted Communities Overlay Zone that applies to areas within and adjacent to Impacted Communities and establishes requirements for discretionary permits for nonresidential developments of 25,000 square feet or more. The overlay zone will include additional required project findings that promote environmental justice, health, and safety. Projects able to satisfy the required findings will: (a) Provide benefits that support the community objectives, such as those identified in the Community Profile. (b) Provide economic benefits for the community. (c) Avoid unwelcome permanent displacement of existing residents or businesses in the community. (d) Support community resiliency, cohesion, and safety. (e) Positively impact health and quality of life within the community. As part of the process to develop this ordinance, create guidance for demonstrating consistency with these findings. Page 432Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme A -3 Action SC-A1.4 Submit a report to the Board of Supervisors on the feasibility of creating or participating in a public bank, public-private partnerships, community land trusts, and other types of economic development and wealth-building tools to support local interests, community development, and long-term community ownership and housing affordability in Impacted Communities. Action SC-A1.5 Establish a process for the County to assist community-based organizations and public-private partners with obtaining financing (e.g., grants) to implement physical improvements and beautification projects such as murals, vegetative buffers, and planting strips in Impacted Communities. Action SC-A1.6 Dedicate staff in appropriate departments to assist applicants from Impacted Communities in navigating the project application and review process for projects in their communities. Action SC-A1.7 Upon each 5-year review of the General Plan, review health outcomes data for Impacted Communities and assess any updated information related to the delineation of Impacted Communities in Contra Costa County. Update the map of Impacted Communities (Figure SC-1) and environmental justice-related goals, policies, and actions accordingly. Action SC-A1.8 As part of the annual General Plan progress report to the Board of Supervisors, describe specific efforts to implement the General Plan policies and actions related to environmental justice, highlighting efforts in each Impacted Community. Post this report in a visible location on the County website. Action SC-A2.1 Study the feasibility of implementing an amortization process to eliminate non-conforming land uses. Action SC-A3.1 Welcome establishment of medical clinics, behavioral health facilities, and pharmacies in Impacted Communities. Action SC-A3.2 Streamline permitting processes for healthcare facilities to reduce barriers to their establishment in Impacted Communities. Action SC-A4.2 Amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to add a requirement for certain projects to incorporate community gardens into the project design. As part of this process, identify a threshold for triggering this requirement, considering project type, size, and location, and establish standards for garden size and design. Consider the unique needs of Impacted Communities when developing these regulations. Policy SC-P5.1 Increase access to fresh food in Impacted Communities by encouraging grocery stores, and urban agriculture, farmers’ markets, and neighborhood kitchens on vacant or underutilized lands. Treat such uses as community benefits in and of themselves. Policy SC-P5.2 Maximize multimodal access to fresh food in Impacted Communities, prioritizing micro-mobility and pedestrian access, by encouraging grocery stores, healthy corner stores, community gardens, and outdoor markets at key transit nodes and within transit- oriented developments. Policy SC-P5.3 Provide temporary, and possibly permanent, access to County facilities and land for farmers’ markets and community gardens, especially in Impacted Communities. Page 433Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 A -4 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme Action SC-A5.1 Inventory and map food deserts in the county. As part of the inventory, account for walking, micro-mobility, and transit access. Action SC-A5.2 Amend the County Ordinance Code and/or procedures to streamline permitting processes for grocery stores and markets in Impacted Communities and food deserts. Action SC-A5.3 Develop incentives to attract grocery stores, markets, and establishments selling fresh produce, preferably locally grown, in areas with poor access to fresh food. Action SC-A5.4 Every five years beginning in 2025, review the Alcoholic Beverage Sales Commercial Activities Ordinance to ensure it protects Impacted Communities from experiencing disproportionate concentrations of, and impacts from, new bars and liquor stores. To support implementation of this ordinance, set up and maintain a shared data system between the Health Services and Conservation and Development departments that identifies the location of current establishments, along with information about public safety and health. Action SC-A5.5 Study the feasibility of restricting fast-food restaurants near schools, parks, and other places where children normally gather. Policy SC-P6.1 Ensure that future improvements in Impacted Communities will not result in a net loss of affordable housing or significant preventable displacement of residents. Policy SC-P6.2 Prompt owners of substandard housing units in Impacted Communities to repair and rehabilitate their buildings. Policy SC-P6.3 Coordinate with residents of Impacted Communities, the Housing Authority of Contra Costa County, affordable housing developers, community land trusts, and housing advocates to transition vacant and underutilized land in Impacted Communities into affordable and transitional housing and shared equity models. This should include development of various types of innovative housing products and homeownership opportunities to help residents overcome past exclusionary practices and build intergenerational wealth. Action SC-A6.1 Obtain additional funding for and address barriers to participation in the County’s Weatherization Program and similar programs like the Contra Costa Asthma Initiative and Neighborhood Preservation Program for extremely low-, very low-, and low-income homeowners, seniors, landlords, and renters. Focus these efforts on homes in Impacted Communities, particularly rental and multiple- family housing. Action SC-A6.2 Create a bulk buying program or revolving loan fund that allows people to purchase energy-efficient electric appliances (air conditioners, fans, air purifiers, heaters, stoves, ovens, etc.) and other items that increase building efficiency at wholesale prices or minimal cost, possibly with zero-percent interest financing, to increase energy efficiency and replace hazardous appliances. Work with volunteer groups that help people install and dispose of air conditioners and other electrical appliances if they are unable to do so themselves, focusing on Impacted Communities and other areas with high concentrations of vulnerable people. Consider augmenting energy-efficiency programs to reduce electricity use and help offset the cost of operating electrical appliances. Page 434Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme A -5 Action SC-A6.3 Partner with local solar energy providers to enact a solar group buy program to purchase solar panels and battery storage in bulk for installation in Impacted Communities, including establishment and subsidization of community solar programs that supply electricity to multiple consumers from a single photovoltaic solar location. The program should include an educational component to inform the community about the benefits and process of solar installation and give them the opportunity to enroll in the program at a discounted rate. Action SC-A6.4 Expand the County’s first-time homebuyer program to provide more information and assistance, prioritizing outreach in Impacted Communities to spread awareness of the program. Policy SC-P7.1 Support development of cultural facilities and programs that are physically and financially accessible to all, with emphasis on bringing these to Impacted Communities. Policy SC-P7.2 Pursue arts and cultural investments as a tool for economic development, especially in Impacted Communities. Policy SC-P7.3 Support artists, community groups, and volunteer organizations in implementing temporary and permanent public art programs, especially in Impacted Communities. Policy SC-P8.3 Welcome businesses, especially family-sustaining, locally hiring, sustainable businesses, that provide essential goods and services in Impacted Communities, including food stores with fresh produce, healthcare, childcare, pharmacies, and other retailers, while discouraging predatory lenders, liquor stores, tobacco and cannabis retail stores, dollar stores, and fast-food restaurants. Policy SC-P8.4 Promote entrepreneurship, innovation, and locally owned businesses and enterprises, especially ethnic, immigrant, and Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) entrepreneurship, for the purpose of improving economic self-sufficiency and stability, including through outreach efforts to local small business owners while minimizing permitting barriers. Policy SC-P8.5 Encourage more daycares, preschools, and early childhood development centers to make childcare more accessible and affordable for working families. Action SC-A8.1 Establish a First Source Hiring Program requiring developers, contractors, and employers to make good-faith efforts toward employing the local construction workforce, with emphasis on residents of Impacted Communities and those who are economically disadvantaged. Action SC-A8.2 Partner with school districts, community colleges, community organizations, large employers, trade associations, unions, and job training centers to support enhanced job-skills training, recruitment programs and services, and childcare services to support the county’s workforce, especially workers in Impacted Communities. Work with experienced groups to ensure that programs will be properly staffed and funded. Training and intervention strategies should reduce barriers to employment for youth, formerly incarcerated residents, and residents with limited English proficiency, and should support a just transition from a fossil-fuel reliant economy by re-training displaced workers with skills for living-wage jobs in new industries. Page 435Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 A -6 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme Action SC-A8.3 Explore the feasibility of establishing a revolving loan fund, grant program, or business incubator that supports small business formation and expansion in Impacted Communities. Connect to industries such as advanced manufacturing, biomedical/biotech, food, transportation technology, and clean technology that support an economic transition from fossil fuels. Action SC-A8.4 Develop and sufficiently fund a program to offer one-on-one support to small businesses in Impacted Communities. Through this program, provide guidance related to available grants and other forms of financing, access to innovation, access to emerging industries and markets, and mentorship. Policy SC-P10.3 Expand opportunities to engage with County government. Provide residents with convenient access to information in the predominant languages spoken in their community. Policy SC-P11.1 Engage with residents of Impacted Communities in a genuine, meaningful, and respectful manner. Policy SC-P11.2 Notify and engage community members, organizations, and leaders when County planning decisions on major projects are being considered in or near Impacted Communities. Conduct meaningful outreach and engagement with Impacted Communities as follows: (a) Notify Impacted Communities of the existence of major projects early in the planning process. (b) Prepare public notices in the predominant language(s) spoken in the community and provide interpretation services at meetings as needed. (c) Make public notices and other important documents easy to understand and available in print at local libraries, community centers, or other gathering places. (d) Use a wide array of methods to inform community members of opportunities to participate, such as the County website, social media, texts, banners, mailers, and flyers. (e) Use supplemental outreach approaches that are appropriate for the participating community. (f) Schedule, format, and locate community workshops and meetings to be convenient for community members, both in person and online, whenever possible. (g) Use social media, virtual meeting platforms, recorded meetings, and other communication techniques to assist those without time or ability to attend public meetings. (h) Consider the economic, gender, age, and racial diversity of the affected population when developing outreach strategies. (i) Clearly explain potential adverse impacts of a proposed project in plain language that is easily understood by the participating community. Page 436Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme A -7 Policy SC-P11.3 Provide community engagement and information access options for people in Impacted Communities without access to computers or internet. Use facilities such as public libraries and community centers as a resource for making information and technology available. Policy SC-P11.4 Strive for more diverse representation on County boards, commissions, committees, and similar bodies to better reflect the demographics and varying viewpoints of county residents, with greater efforts to engage under-represented populations. Action SC-A11.1 Designate staff in departments that routinely interact with residents of Impacted Communities, such as Conservation and Development, Public Works, and Health Services, as liaisons to each Impacted Community. Action SC-A11.2 Hold semi-annual public meetings in each Impacted Community, including the County Supervisor representing the community and representatives from the full spectrum of County departments, to hear from residents of these communities, and use that input to inform the County’s annual budgeting process. Provide interpretation services at these meetings. Action SC-A11.3 Identify communities with a significant number of non-English-speaking households and develop resources and strategies for better engagement. Action SC-A11.4 Develop centralized outreach services to support all County departments with language interpretation, translation services for written documents, and sign language services for public meetings. Action SC-A11.6 Amend County Ordinance Code Title 2 – Administration to increase the public notification distance for hearings concerning refineries and other large stationary sources (i.e., any stationary source that emits, or has the potential to emit, 40 tons per year or more of nitrous oxides or sulfur dioxide; 15 tons per year of coarse particulate matter; 10 tons per year of fine particulate matter; and/or 200 tons per year of carbon dioxide) from 300 to 3,000 feet. TRANSPORTATION ELEMENT Action TR-A1.8 Work with transit agencies to provide convenient ways for residents to report transit shelters and other amenities (e.g., lighting, seating) that are in disrepair. Encourage and promote reporting countywide, especially in Impacted Communities Action TR-A1.9 Pursue funding and other resources to implement the Accessible Transportation Services Strategic Plan and similar plans and initiatives that expand the hours of operation, operational boundaries, convenience, and quality of accessible transit to improve mobility for seniors, people with disabilities, and other vulnerable populations. Action TR-A1.10 Support establishment of a Bay Area-wide transit fare equity program that includes free or means-based transit passes for qualifying residents of Impacted Communities. Page 437Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 A -8 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme Policy TR-P2.3 Require installation of or provide energy-efficient street lighting to improve public safety and comfort in urbanized areas. Prioritize installation in Impacted Communities, particularly at parks, transit stops, alleyways, bike and pedestrian paths, trails, and other appropriate areas, consistent with community preferences. Action TR-A2.2 Identify and address neighborhood-specific issues and needs in Impacted Communities, prioritizing installation of sidewalks, enhanced crosswalks, street lighting, street trees, bicycling infrastructure, transit stop amenities, traffic calming, and other safety and comfort improvements, especially in residential areas and near schools, libraries, and recreational facilities. Explore innovative methods to ensure these facilities are maintained. Engage school districts, neighborhood groups, and the local Safe Routes to School Program in implementing this action. Action TR-A5.3 Periodically review the scoring formula for active transportation projects to ensure continued prioritization of projects in Impacted Communities. Action TR-A6.1 Develop a program to establish and maintain truck routes, with the goal of minimizing impacts on residents and other sensitive receptors. This program will provide engineering and policy solutions to divert trucks from Impacted Communities and establish criteria for designating weight limits on certain routes and installing physical barriers and signage. CONSERVATION, OPEN SPACE, AND WORKING LANDS ELEMENT Action COS-A14.9 Ensure County-led and supported retrofit programs incentivize and prioritize conversion of buildings built before 1980 and emphasize assistance to owners of properties that are home to very low-, low-, and moderate- income residents or located in Impacted Communities, as permitted by available funding. PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES ELEMENT Action PFS-A1.2 Update the Capital Facilities Master Plan, Capital Road Improvement and Preservation Program, Parks Capital Improvement Program, and similar plans and programs as needed to maintain consistency with this General Plan, particularly its provisions related to environmental justice. Policy PFS-P2.1 Ensure County facilities and services meet the needs of all users, regardless of age, ability, race, ethnicity, culture, language, gender identity, or economic status. Policy PFS-P2.2 Pursuant to SB 1000, as part of the County’s annual budgeting process, prioritize investments in public facilities, infrastructure, and services that benefit Impacted Communities and respond to their needs, particularly those needs identified in their Community Profiles. Policy PFS-P2.3 Coordinate with service providers (e.g., water, wastewater, transit, and recreation districts) and advocate for proper planning, maintenance, and implementation of services and infrastructure to ensure efficient service delivery in Impacted Communities. Page 438Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme A -9 Policy PFS-P2.5 Continue to prioritize and adequately fund code enforcement and clean-up of illegal dumping on public and private property in Impacted Communities. Action PFS-A2.1 Establish funding and financing mechanisms in Impacted Communities to provide and maintain community-desired public facilities and services. These could be County- or community-initiated, and include business improvement districts, green benefit districts, and similar mechanisms. Action PFS-A2.2 Establish an entity within the County tasked with ensuring that County services and facilities in Impacted Communities are coordinated, prioritized, and delivered efficiently and effectively. Action PFS-A2.3 Implement and maintain urban greening and green infrastructure, such as sustainable/green street projects, in Impacted Communities. Action PFS-A2.4 Regularly assess Code Enforcement responses and Public Works maintenance practices to ensure equitable implementation. Prioritize resources to keep Impacted Communities safe and clean, emphasizing enforcement actions on issues identified in Community Profiles. Action PFS-A2.6 Pursue public-private partnerships that will improve access to reliable, fast internet and make digital resources available in Impacted Communities at affordable prices. Policy PFS-P3.4 When communities request levels of County services that exceed the countywide standard, require creation of (or annexation into) a County Service Area, community facilities district, or equivalent mechanism to fund the supplemental service costs. Allow exceptions for enhanced services in Impacted Communities if alternative funding sources can be identified. Policy PFS-P3.6 When adopting, amending, and imposing impact fees, community benefits agreements, and developer exactions, consider the effects of such fees and exactions upon individual project economics, housing supply, economic development, and the County’s broad goals and objectives related to overall community development. If gap funding can be identified, consider fee reductions or exemptions for projects in Impacted Communities that are consistent with the community objectives identified in their Community Profile. Policy PFS-P4.4 Partner with water service providers to ensure continuity of service and provide financial relief to Impacted Communities if prices rise during drought conditions. Policy PFS-P7.7 Support expansion of recycling programs and efforts to locate convenient, accessible recycling centers in Impacted Communities. Action PFS-A7.3 Partner with community organizations and solid waste franchise collection haulers to maximize participation in community clean-up days and residential on-call garbage pick-ups in Impacted Communities. Encourage community participation by holding these events in conjunction with other community events whenever possible. Action PFS-A7.5 Install signage and increase education, monitoring, enforcement, and rapid cleanup to discourage illegal dumping, especially in Impacted Communities and rural areas. Page 439Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 A -10 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme Action PFS-A7.6 Use the County’s legislative platform process and partner with other public agencies throughout the state to propose and support legislation to combat illegal dumping. Policy PFS-P8.3 Increase access to diverse, high-quality parks, green space, recreational facilities, trails, and natural environments for residents of Impacted Communities, including through multiple transportation modes. Partner with other agencies and non-governmental organizations to obtain funding, and design and maintain these facilities to offer a safe and comfortable environment for residents of all ages and abilities. Policy PFS-P8.4 Prioritize and promote recreational activity programs and opportunities in Impacted Communities. Policy PFS-P8.6 Support expanded access to recreation opportunities by working with other agencies to co-locate parks and trails with public facilities, such as schools and utility easements, with Impacted Communities prioritized. Policy PFS-P8.11 Support local community groups and volunteer organizations in efforts to improve and maintain local parks, trails, and other public spaces, such as through an Adopt-A-Park/Trail program, especially in Impacted Communities. Action PFS-A8.2 Coordinate with recreation and park districts and cities to prepare a parks and open space needs assessment for all unincorporated communities, prioritizing Impacted Communities. Integrate the results of the assessment into a Parks Master Plan and the Parks Capital Improvement Program and implement improvements that address barriers to outdoor physical activity, such as inadequate infrastructure and safety concerns. Policy PFS-P10.1 Prioritize expansion of library services in Impacted Communities. HEALTH AND SAFETY ELEMENT Policy HS-P1.2 Participate in emission and exposure reduction, public education, engagement, outreach, and other programs that promote improved air quality, focusing on Impacted Communities. Policy HS-P1.3 Require new development to adhere to BAAQMD’s Planning Healthy Places guidance when local conditions warrant. Policy HS-P1.4 Require new industrial development to locate significant pollution sources as far away from sensitive receptors as possible. Policy HS-P1.6 Require that any mitigation of air quality impacts occur on-site to the extent feasible to provide the greatest benefit to local residents. For mitigation that relies on offsets, require that the offsets be obtained from sources as near to the project site as possible. If the project site is within or adjacent to an Impacted Community, require offsets/mitigation within that community unless determined infeasible by the County. Page 440Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme A -11 Policy HS-P1.8 Require new or expanded commercial and industrial projects exceeding 25,000 square feet of gross floor area to be near zero- emissions (NZE) operations, including the facilities themselves and the associated fleets. Require all necessary measures, such as the following, to achieve NZE: (a) Reduce on-site energy consumption and increase on-site energy generation and energy storage. (b) Provide adequate on-site ZE vehicle-capable parking for all anticipated truck traffic to prevent idling and off-site queuing. (c) Provide electrified loading docks with receptacles allowing plug-in of refrigerated trailers. (d) Use heavy-duty trucks that are model year 2014 or later and expedite a transition to ZE trucks by establishing a clear timeline for electrification of trucks as they become commercially available. Ensure contracts with motor carriers include air quality incentives or requirements, such as providing incentives to fleets that meet United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) SmartWay standards or requiring use of ZE or NZE trucks. (e) Use a “clean fleet” of delivery vehicles as they become commercially available, but no later than 2025. (f) Use ZEyard equipment, such as forklifts, pallet trucks and jacks, and stackers. (g) Implement practices to control and remove fugitive dust and other contaminants from paved areas. (h) Uses with fewer than five vehicles domiciled on-site are exempt from this policy. Action HS-A1.2 Consult with BAAQMD and community stakeholders and amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to create an Air Pollution Exposure Overlay Zone around freeways that requires new construction in these areas to install enhanced ventilation systems and other strategies to protect people from respiratory, heart, and other health effects associated with breathing polluted air. Action HS-A1.3 Consult with BAAQMD and community stakeholders and, amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to include an Industrial- Sensitive Receptor Interface Overlay Zone applied to areas where residential land uses and other sensitive receptors interface or directly abut heavy industrial land uses. In the overlay zone, require industrial uses to reduce pollution and employ strategies to mitigate air quality, noise, vibration, odor, light, visual, and safety impacts on nearby sensitive receptors. In addition, require new sensitive receptors to install enhanced ventilation systems and implement other strategies, paid for by neighboring sources of pollution to the extent possible, to protect residents from health and quality of life impacts. Action HS-A1.4 Consult with BAAQMD and community stakeholders and amend County Ordinance Code Title 7 – Building Regulations to include a clean construction ordinance that requires projects to implement extra measures to reduce emissions at construction sites in or near places that are already overburdened by air pollution, such as Impacted Communities. Action HS-A1.5 Adopt an ordinance at least as stringent as the State’s maximum idling law, and coordinate with CARB and law enforcement to achieve compliance. Page 441Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 A -12 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme Policy PFS-P2.1 When evaluating health risk impacts of projects in Impacted Communities, use an excess cancer risk of 6.0 per million and a non- cancer (acute and chronic) hazard index greater than 1.0 as thresholds for finding that the project could cause a cumulatively considerable contribution and a significant impact. Policy PFS-P2.2 Increase the tree canopy on public property, especially in Impacted Communities and areas with a high heat index, by prioritizing funding for new street tree planting and maintenance. Policy PFS-P2.3 Support protection, restoration, and enhancement of natural landscapes in and near Impacted Communities to improve air quality and community health. Action HS-A2.1 Partner with community members and regulatory agencies to prepare a community-scale plan for reducing and mitigating air pollutant emissions and industrial hazards, such as pipeline risks, accidents, potential water or soil contamination, and impacts to sensitive ecological resources for each Impacted Community, or group of Impacted Communities, as appropriate. Require future projects to demonstrate consistency with those plans. Action HS-A2.2 Coordinate with community members, BAAQMD, and other regulatory agencies to facilitate AB 617 citizen-led programs, including data collection, monitoring of pollution exposure, and identification and implementation of solutions in Impacted Communities. Consider future General Plan and Zoning Code amendments as needed to support BAAQMD in meeting AB 617 objectives. Action HS-A2.3 Conduct a housing condition survey in Impacted Communities to identify units likely requiring upgrades to provide adequate protection from toxic releases. Based on the survey’s findings, target outreach to provide information about weatherization and similar improvement programs. Action HS-A2.4 Coordinate with BAAQMD to determine where to focus a targeted permit inspection program in Impacted Communities to help ensure enforcement of air quality permits. Action HS-A2.5 Prepare a tree master plan for the county that emphasizes planting of low-maintenance native tree species and includes quantified goals and tracking methods, including mapping the tree canopy, and prioritizes planting in Impacted Communities and along safe routes to schools. Policy HS-P4.4 Prioritize efforts to protect Impacted Communities and other vulnerable populations from the impacts of climate change, including through improving community capacity and meaningfully involving community members in decision making. Action HS-A6.3 Coordinate with BCDC, cities, and other agencies, organizations, and stakeholders to prepare and adopt a community-driven countywide sea-level rise adaptation plan addressing increased flooding and sea-level rise that provides unique adaptation options for the entire county shoreline and identifies funding mechanisms for implementation. Use Figures HS-6 through HS-9 or the best- available climate science data to identify where sea-level rise hazards are likely to occur and lead efforts to: (a) Maximize awareness and disclosure to property owners and the public. Page 442Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme A -13 (b) Assess and address impacts to future development, including promoting the Adaptation Pathways model to respond to uncertainty and evolving conditions. (c) Plan for resiliency projects and adaptation measures to protect existing development and infrastructure, emphasizing nature- based solutions. (d) Partner with the Adapting to Rising Tides Program, Delta Stewardship Council, property owners, and community-based organizations to conduct a study of opportunities and costs for shifting development away from areas at risk from inundation (e) Inform funding and financing decisions about short-term and long-term resiliency and adaptation projects. (f) Ensure that the disproportionate impacts on vulnerable populations and Impacted Communities are addressed. Policy HS-P9.1 Provide equitable inspection and enforcement of hazardous material and hazardous waste regulations throughout the county. Policy HS-P9.7 Prioritize implementation of safety projects along hazardous material transportation corridors in Impacted Communities to address high-risk scenarios. Policy HS-P9.8 Require applicants for projects in Impacted Communities that involve hazardous materials or hazardous waste to provide clear information in plain language about potential hazards their projects pose to nearby residents. Review and verify this information, make it available to residents, and encourage project applicants to host at least one community meeting to discuss potential hazards. Policy HS-P9.9 Discourage construction of new large-scale facilities that treat, store, or dispose of hazardous waste from off-site sources and negatively impact Impacted Communities. Policy HS-P9.14 Encourage and facilitate establishment of adequate sites for collection of household hazardous waste (HHW), unused pharmaceuticals, and universal wastes, along with provisions for residents who are physically unable to deliver materials to a collection site. Policy HS-P10.1 Coordinate with other agencies in efforts to remediate or treat contaminated surface water, groundwater, and soils in or affecting Impacted Communities. Policy HS-P10.3 Require new or expanded industrial uses involving hazardous materials or wastes to provide sufficient funds, in the form of a cash deposit, surety bond, or other financial instrument acceptable to the County, to guarantee site remediation, including removal of facilities, equipment, and structures, and ensure community safety and site reusability. Policy HS-P12.4 Ensure there are adequate identified locations for alternate care sites, especially in Impacted Communities. Page 443Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 A -14 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme Policy HS-A12.5 Identify and map existing community facilities, such as libraries, gymnasiums, community centers, and auditoriums, that can serve as community resilience centers and support people with access and functional needs during hazard events. Work with the owners of these facilities to identify and implement upgrades, prioritizing facilities in Impacted Communities. Page 444Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme A -15 COMMUNITY HEALTH STRONGER COMMUNITIES ELEMENT Policy SC-P1.1 In partnership with residents of Impacted Communities, affected workers, business/industry, environmental and environmental justice advocates, community colleges, workforce development and training entities, local government, and other involved agencies, support transition from petroleum refining and other highly polluting industries to a net-zero emission economy based on renewable and sustainable industries that provide living-wage jobs. Policy SC-P1.3 Support development of walkable districts that provide a range of neighborhood-serving retail and service uses, public amenities, and related infrastructure (such as lighting) to residents of Impacted Communities within walking distance of their homes. Policy SC-P1.4 Support cultural and community-driven events, such as art festivals, farmers’ markets, and community service days, that support social connections, neighborhood identity, and environmental stewardship. Policy SC-P1.5 Maintain a streamlined process to permit and facilitate partial and temporary street closures for community-driven amenities and activities, such as parklets, farmers’ markets, arts and cultural events, and outdoor dining, and assist applicants through the permit process. Action SC-A1.1 Partner with the stakeholders identified in Policy SC-P1.1 to develop and implement a plan to transition from petroleum-refining and other highly polluting industries to renewable, sustainable, and clean industries that provide living-wage jobs. The plan should address site remediation responsibilities along with timelines and strategies to improve health, safety, infrastructure, job opportunities, and revenue opportunities during the transition toward a net-zero-emission economy, paying special attention to developing new opportunities for Impacted Communities to realize economic, health, educational, and other benefits. Action SC-A1.2 Amend County Ordinance Code Chapter 84-63, Land Use Permits for Development Projects Involving Hazardous Waste or Hazardous Materials, to: (a) Increase the hazard scores for projects with potential to adversely affect Impacted Communities to ensure more projects are subject to discretionary review. (b) Address ambiguities and antiquated terminology that complicate administration of the ordinance. (c) Require preparation of a plan to prevent and remediate any contaminant releases, along with bonds or other financial assurances that guarantee remediation plans are implemented, for projects in areas subject to sea-level rise or tsunami inundation. Page 445Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 A -16 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme Action SC-A1.3 With input from residents of Impacted Communities, amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 - Zoning to create an Impacted Communities Overlay Zone that applies to areas within and adjacent to Impacted Communities and establishes requirements for discretionary permits for nonresidential developments of 25,000 square feet or more. The overlay zone will include additional required project findings that promote environmental justice, health, and safety. Projects able to satisfy the required findings will: (a) Provide benefits that support the community objectives, such as those identified in the Community Profile. (b) Provide economic benefits for the community. (c) Avoid unwelcome permanent displacement of existing residents or businesses in the community. (d) Support community resiliency, cohesion, and safety. (e) Positively impact health and quality of life within the community. As part of the process to develop this ordinance, create guidance for demonstrating consistency with these findings. Action SC-A1.5 Establish a process for the County to assist community-based organizations and public-private partners with obtaining financing (e.g., grants) to implement physical improvements and beautification projects such as murals, vegetative buffers, and planting strips in Impacted Communities. Action SC-A1.7 Upon each 5-year review of the General Plan, review health outcomes data for Impacted Communities and assess any updated information related to the delineation of Impacted Communities in Contra Costa County. Update the map of Impacted Communities (Figure SC-1) and environmental justice-related goals, policies, and actions accordingly. Policy SC-P2.1 Welcome redevelopment and clean-up of undesirable uses and activities, such as highly polluting industries, and support uses that have a positive impact on community well-being. Policy SC-P2.2 Encourage development, preservation, and reinvestment that strengthen the unique character of each unincorporated community and advance community and neighborhood resilience. Ensure that future private and public projects provide infrastructure, parks and playgrounds, complete streets, trees and landscaping, streetscapes, signage, and sustainable building design that reflect and improve the character of the community, along with long-term maintenance mechanisms to ensure continued benefit from the improvements into the future. Policy SC-P2.3 Within established communities, complete construction of sidewalks and crosswalks and encourage neighborhood design and development that supports safe walking, biking, and other micro-mobility options, convenient access to services and transit, and opportunities for local shopping. Policy SC-P2.4 Provide functional civic space and well-maintained public amenities near high-volume transit hubs. Each hub area should project a positive visual image, a strong and unique identity, and a safe, inviting environment for pedestrians and passengers. Page 446Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme A -17 Policy SC-P2.5 Promote creation of community focal points and gathering places. Policy SC-P2.6 Leverage community-specific natural features, such as creeks, shorelines, and trails, to strengthen community identity and connect residents to nature. Policy SC-P2.7 Encourage land uses and activities that reflect and enrich the history and cultural heritage of each unincorporated community. Policy SC-P2.8 Stimulate investment in communities by using CEQA infill exemptions to expedite environmental review and reduce project costs. Policy SC-P2.9 Implement principles of universal and barrier-free design so that people of all physical abilities can enjoy mobility and accessibility in their communities. Policy SC-P2.10 Empower residents of all ages and abilities to volunteer toward improving conditions in Contra Costa County and maintain a culture within County government that supports and celebrates such volunteerism. Action SC-A2.1 Study the feasibility of implementing an amortization process to eliminate non-conforming land uses. Policy SC-P3.1 Provide all communities with sufficient and equitable access to adequate healthcare and behavioral health facilities and services. Policy SC-P3.2 Pursue feasible opportunities to co-locate healthcare services with other County services within new or substantially renovated County facilities. Policy SC-P3.3 Support and encourage provision of paratransit, public transit, and other transportation services to neighborhood and regional healthcare facilities to meet identified gaps in service. Action SC-A3.1 Welcome establishment of medical clinics, behavioral health facilities, and pharmacies in Impacted Communities. Action SC-A3.2 Streamline permitting processes for healthcare facilities to reduce barriers to their establishment in Impacted Communities. Action SC-A3.3 Continue collaborating with neighboring jurisdictions to assess and address issues related to capacity and access to emergency, acute, and preventative/primary healthcare services, especially in the West County region. Policy SC-P4.1 Encourage planting of home gardens and food-producing plants and trees on private property in urban areas. Encourage partnerships between property owners and gleaning and stewardship programs to harvest and maintain edible plantings. Policy SC-P4.2 Encourage all new residential development to incorporate community gardens into the project design and require incorporation of community gardens for projects that meet the criteria established through Action SC-A4.2. Policy SC-P4.3 Encourage urban agriculture, including urban farms and community gardens with collectively shared and managed plots, and demonstration and educational gardens operated by community organizations and educational institutions. Allow associated limited on-site sales, processing facilities, and complementary agricultural activities when compatible with adjacent uses. Page 447Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 A -18 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme Policy SC-P4.4 Support programs that increase the availability of recycled water for urban agriculture and landscaping through self-fill stations and similar facilities. Action SC-A4.1 Amend the urban agriculture provisions in County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to address the following: (a) Zoning districts where urban agriculture is allowed. (b) Permitting requirements. (c) Development and performance standards. (d) Environmentally safe and sustainable practices. (e) Sale of crops and value-added products. (f) Animal husbandry. (g) Disposal of food waste and agricultural byproducts. Action SC-A4.2 Amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to add a requirement for certain projects to incorporate community gardens into the project design. As part of this process, identify a threshold for triggering this requirement, considering project type, size, and location, and establish standards for garden size and design. Consider the unique needs of Impacted Communities when developing these regulations. Action SC-A4.3 Amend County Ordinance Code Title 4 – Health and Safety to allow food trucks within certain designated areas and on private property with special permits under Title 8. Policy SC-P5.1 Increase access to fresh food in Impacted Communities by encouraging grocery stores, and urban agriculture, farmers’ markets, and neighborhood kitchens on vacant or underutilized lands. Treat such uses as community benefits in and of themselves. Policy SC-P5.2 Maximize multimodal access to fresh food in Impacted Communities, prioritizing micro-mobility and pedestrian access, by encouraging grocery stores, healthy corner stores, community gardens, and outdoor markets at key transit nodes and within transit- oriented developments. Policy SC-P5.3 Provide temporary, and possibly permanent, access to County facilities and land for farmers’ markets and community gardens, especially in Impacted Communities. Action SC-A5.1 Inventory and map food deserts in the county. As part of the inventory, account for walking, micro-mobility, and transit access. Action SC-A5.2 Amend the County Ordinance Code and/or procedures to streamline permitting processes for grocery stores and markets in Impacted Communities and food deserts. Page 448Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme A -19 Action SC-A5.3 Develop incentives to attract grocery stores, markets, and establishments selling fresh produce, preferable locally grown, in areas with poor access to fresh food. Action SC-A5.4 Every five years beginning in 2025, review the Alcoholic Beverage Sales Commercial Activities Ordinance to ensure it protects Impacted Communities from experiencing disproportionate concentrations of, and impacts from, new bars and liquor stores. To support implementation of this ordinance, set up and maintain a shared data system between the Health Services and Conservation and Development departments that identifies the location of current establishments, along with information about public safety and health. Action SC-A5.5 Study the feasibility of restricting fast-food restaurants near schools, parks, and other places where children normally gather. Policy SC-P6.1 Ensure that future improvements in Impacted Communities will not result in a net loss of affordable housing or significant preventable displacement of residents. Policy SC-P6.2 Prompt owners of substandard housing units in Impacted Communities to repair and rehabilitate their buildings. Policy SC-P6.3 Coordinate with residents of Impacted Communities, the Housing Authority of Contra Costa County, affordable housing developers, community land trusts, and housing advocates to transition vacant and underutilized land in Impacted Communities into affordable and transitional housing and shared equity models. This should include development of various types of innovative housing products and homeownership opportunities to help residents overcome past exclusionary practices and build intergenerational wealth. Action SC-A6.1 Obtain additional funding for and address barriers to participation in the County’s Weatherization Program and similar programs like the Contra Costa Asthma Initiative and Neighborhood Preservation Program for extremely low-, very low-, and low-income homeowners, seniors, landlords, and renters. Focus these efforts on homes in Impacted Communities, particularly rental and multiple- family housing. Action SC-A6.2 Create a bulk buying program or revolving loan fund that allows people to purchase energy-efficient electric appliances (air conditioners, fans, air purifiers, heaters, stoves, ovens, etc.) and other items that increase building efficiency at wholesale prices or minimal cost, possibly with zero-percent interest financing, to increase energy efficiency and replace hazardous appliances. Work with volunteer groups that help people install and dispose of air conditioners and other electrical appliances if they are unable to do so themselves, focusing on Impacted Communities and other areas with high concentrations of vulnerable people. Consider augmenting energy-efficiency programs to reduce electricity use and help offset the cost of operating electrical appliances. Action SC-A6.3 Partner with local solar energy providers to enact a solar group buy program to purchase solar panels and battery storage in bulk for installation in Impacted Communities, including establishment and subsidization of community solar programs that supply electricity to multiple consumers from a single photovoltaic solar location. The program should include an educational component to inform the community about the benefits and process of solar installation and give them the opportunity to enroll in the program at a discounted rate. Page 449Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 A -20 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme Action SC-A6.4 Expand the County’s first-time homebuyer program to provide more information and assistance, prioritizing outreach in Impacted Communities to spread awareness of the program. Policy SC-P8.3 Welcome businesses, especially family-sustaining, locally hiring, sustainable businesses, that provide essential goods and services in Impacted Communities, including food stores with fresh produce, healthcare, childcare, pharmacies, and other retailers, while discouraging predatory lenders, liquor stores, tobacco and cannabis retail stores, dollar stores, and fast-food restaurants. Policy SC-P8.5 Encourage more daycares, preschools, and early childhood development centers to make childcare more accessible and affordable for working families. Action SC-A8.2 Partner with school districts, community colleges, community organizations, large employers, trade associations, unions, and job training centers to support enhanced job-skills training, recruitment programs and services, and childcare services to support the county’s workforce, especially workers in Impacted Communities. Work with experienced groups to ensure that programs will be properly staffed and funded. Training and intervention strategies should reduce barriers to employment for youth, formerly incarcerated residents, and residents with limited English proficiency, and should support a just transition from a fossil-fuel reliant economy by re-training displaced workers with skills for living-wage jobs in new industries. Action SC-A8.5 Explore use of existing federal and State government economic development programs, such as the “Opportunity Zone” program, “HUB Zone” program, and contracting designations, as a means to generate funding for transit, housing, and capital improvements, while attracting private investment. LAND USE ELEMENT Policy LU-P2.7 In areas with a Residential land use designation, relate single-family residential density to the availability of utility services as follows: (a) Require a 5-acre minimum lot size where no public water or sanitary sewer service is available. (b) Require a 1-acre minimum lot size where either public water or sanitary sewer service is available, but not both. Where public water and sanitary sewer services are available, allowable density will be based on the General Plan Land Use Map designation, as well as drainage, health, safety, and other applicable standards. Policy LU-P3.3 Encourage extremely high-density, mixed-use development that combines employment, housing, and services near major transit facilities. Such development should be planned and designed to encourage walking, micromobility, and transit use; shorter commutes; and reduced dependency on single-occupant vehicles. Page 450Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme A -21 Action LU-A5.1 In 2025 and at least once every five years thereafter, evaluate the County’s off-street parking standards to ensure their continued applicability in light of changing conditions, trends, and technology. Each evaluation should assess the appropriateness of reducing or eliminating parking minimums, taking off-site impacts into account, and recommend strategies for reducing parking demand. Policy LU-P7.3 Protect residential neighborhoods from incompatible uses and activities that will adversely affect public health and safety. Policy LU-P7.4 Require new residential development to be planned, designed, and constructed in a way that promotes health, minimizes hazard exposure for future residents, and mitigates potential adverse effects on natural resources and the environment. Policy LU-P7.5 Require new residential projects to provide convenient access/connections to public transit, local destinations, and multi-use trails whenever possible. Policy LU-P9.5 Plan industrial uses and districts to be harmonious with nearby areas, reduce the potential for off-site impacts, and limit potential exposure to environmental health hazards and pollutants. TRANSPORTATION ELEMENT Policy TR-P1.1 In addition to any required California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) review, evaluate the traffic operations effects of proposed projects in accordance with the County’s Transportation Analysis Guidelines and other appropriate policy supplements and transportation plans and best practices. When operational deficiencies are identified, the treatments to address those deficiencies should first prioritize reducing the project’s vehicular trips and collision risks, and may secondarily consider adding vehicular capacity so long as the safety and movement of active modes are not compromised. Exceptions to the level of service (LOS) operational standards presented in the Transportation Analysis Guidelines may be granted if the treatments necessary to address operational deficiencies would conflict with other priorities in this General Plan and if the project is otherwise consistent with this Plan. Policy TR-P1.2 Prioritize expansion of bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure to address the significant latent demand for these active transportation modes. Policy TR-P1.3 Ensure emerging transportation technologies and travel options, such as autonomous and ZEVs and transportation network companies, support the County’s goals for reducing emissions, adapting to climate change, improving public safety, and increasing equitable mobility. Policy TR-P1.4 Reduce single-occupant vehicle usage, at a minimum using strategies defined in the TDM Ordinance. Policy TR-P1.8 Support improvement and expansion of passenger and commuter rail service countywide, with emphasis on transformative projects such as the Hercules Intermodal Transit Center and BART extensions in the I-80 corridor toward Crockett and SR 4 corridor toward Brentwood. Page 451Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 A -22 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme Policy TR-P1.9 Encourage transit use by supporting expansion of first-mile/last-mile programs, including micromobility. Policy TR-P1.10 Enhance multimodal access to all transit stops, including local routes as well as passenger and commuter rail stations and ferry terminals, prioritizing stops which serve vulnerable and mobility-impaired populations. Policy TR-P1.11 Support transitioning all on-road vehicles, including personal vehicles and business, government, and public transit fleets, to electric power from renewable sources or other zero-emission fuels. Policy TR-P1.12 Continue to improve ZEV (including electric bicycle) charging/fueling infrastructure within new development and public rights-of-way, incorporating new technologies whenever possible. Policy TR-P1.13 Require designs for new parking facilities to incorporate ZEV charging/fueling infrastructure and maximize opportunities for adaptive reuse. Action TR-A1.1 Develop and promote mobility alternatives to single-occupancy vehicles, including but not limited to micromobility, zero-carbon rideshare strategies, and public transit. Action TR-A1.2 Review and update the County’s Transportation Demand Management Guidelines at least every five years to incorporate current best practices. Action TR-A1.4 Implement programs to encourage transit use, bicycling, walking, telecommuting, and use of alternative vehicle fuels by County employees. Action TR-A1.5 Conduct a survey of County offices and facilities to identify gaps in the alternative transportation network and seek funding for projects that will fill those gaps and improve the availability of alternative transportation for County employees. Action TR-A1.6 Partner with transit agencies and CCTA to develop “Safe Routes to Transit” guidance that could be applied in new development areas and existing neighborhoods. Action TR-A1.7 Partner with transit providers, cities, and CCTA to develop a countywide transit stop program that takes a holistic approach to transit stop planning and construction. Push for the program to address right-of-way adequacy (i.e., sufficient space for bus pullouts and amenities), amenities (e.g., shelters, seating), and improvements around stops to increase accessibility (e.g., curb ramps, sidewalk widening). Action TR-A1.8 Work with transit agencies to provide convenient ways for residents to report transit shelters and other amenities (e.g., lighting, seating) that are in disrepair. Encourage and promote reporting countywide, especially in Impacted Communities. Action TR-A1.9 Pursue funding and other resources to implement the Accessible Transportation Services Strategic Plan and similar plans and initiatives that expand the hours of operation, operational boundaries, convenience, and quality of accessible transit to improve mobility for seniors, people with disabilities, and other vulnerable populations. Page 452Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme A -23 Action TR-A1.10 Support establishment of a Bay Area-wide transit fare equity program that includes free or means-based transit passes for qualifying residents of Impacted Communities. Action TR-A1.11 Coordinate with CCTA and other local and regional agencies to implement the Contra Costa Electric Vehicle Readiness Blueprint and related policies and apply best practices in ZEV charging/fueling infrastructure requirements. Action TR-A1.12 Update the County Ordinance Code as necessary to support advances in ZEV charging/fueling infrastructure, including for medium- and heavy-duty vehicles. Policy TR-P2.1 Pursue the priorities identified in the County’s Vision Zero and other safety programs, through prioritization of safety projects and incorporation of safety considerations into all transportation planning efforts. Policy TR-P2.2 Minimize conflicts between vehicles and people who walk, bike, or use micromobility through careful site planning, paying particular attention to driveway locations and internal pedestrian circulation, and prioritizing safety for active modes of travel. Policy TR-P2.3 Require installation of or provide energy-efficient street lighting to improve public safety and comfort in urbanized areas. Prioritize installation in Impacted Communities, particularly at parks, transit stops, alleyways, bike and pedestrian paths, trails, and other appropriate areas, consistent with community preferences. Action TR-A2.1 Maintain a Vision Zero Working Group to regularly review collision data and evaluate the effectiveness of Vision Zero and other safety strategies. Action TR-A2.2 Identify and address neighborhood-specific issues and needs in Impacted Communities, prioritizing installation of sidewalks, enhanced crosswalks, street lighting, street trees, bicycling infrastructure, transit stop amenities, traffic calming, and other safety and comfort improvements, especially in residential areas and near schools, libraries, and recreational facilities. Explore innovative methods to ensure these facilities are maintained. Engage school districts, neighborhood groups, and the local Safe Routes to School Program in implementing this action. Policy TR-P3.2 Coordinate planning, construction, and maintenance of streets, transit infrastructure, non-motorized rights-of-way and associated facilities, the countywide bicycle network, and Pedestrian Priority Areas with neighboring jurisdictions and CCTA. Action TR-A3.1 Coordinate with neighboring jurisdictions, CCTA, and the Regional Transportation Planning Committees to plan, design, and implement Complete Streets concepts on Routes of Regional Significance. Policy TR-P4.1 Plan, design, and maintain improvement projects involving County roadways in accordance with the County’s adopted Complete Streets Policy, other applicable policies (e.g., Vision Zero and other safety initiatives), planning documents such as the County Active Transportation Plan and CCTA Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan, and best practices (e.g., Caltrans, American Association of State and Highway Transportation Officials, and National Association of City Transportation Officials guidance). Page 453Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 A -24 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme Policy TR-P4.2 Require transportation infrastructure serving new development to be designed using best practices, contemplating existing and planned land uses, roadways, bicycle and pedestrian facilities, transit facilities, and connections to adjoining areas. Policy TR-P4.3 Create connections between neighborhoods in unincorporated areas and adjacent jurisdictions to improve multi-modal access to local destinations, such as schools, parks, shopping, health services, and workplaces. Policy TR-P4.4 Manage access points along arterial and collector roadways to minimize the number of new driveway or street-type intersections. Consolidate existing street and driveway intersections as opportunities arise. Policy TR-P4.6 Enhance streetscapes in nonresidential areas, making them more pedestrian-friendly by reducing off-street parking and setback requirements and augmenting traffic-calming measures. Policy TR-P4.7 Encourage walkability and safety by streamlining implementation of traffic-calming measures through the Neighborhood Traffic Management Program. Policy TR-P4.10 Design roadway infrastructure, including traffic-calming and complete streets features, to accommodate emergency response vehicles while maintaining the safety of vulnerable road users. Action TR-A4.3 Develop guidance for managing curb space in ways that are sensitive to the land use context, with considerations for freight deliveries, parking, active transportation use, users with limited mobility, transportation network companies, outdoor dining, and other curb uses that may emerge. Policy TR-P5.1 Plan, design, construct, and maintain facilities for walking, bicycling, and rolling to serve people of all ages, abilities, and income levels, including children, seniors, families, and people with limited mobility. Policy TR-P5.2 Coordinate with Caltrans to provide safe and comfortable highway interchange crossings for people of all ages and abilities who walk, bike, or use micromobility. Policy TR-P5.3 Prioritize construction of capital improvement projects identified in the County’s ATP. Policy TR-P5.5 Maintain pedestrian and active transportation facilities to the same standard as roads and other transportation infrastructure, including repair and cleanup of all bikeway types and shared-use pathways. Policy TR-P5.7 Encourage walking, bicycling, and micromobility as the travel modes of choice for short to medium-length trips, such as trips to schools, parks, transit stops, and neighborhood services. Policy TR-P5.8 Partner with neighboring jurisdictions, transit agencies, community members, and business organizations to plan and construct sustainable streets in business and commercial areas. Consider forming community facilities districts or business improvement districts to help fund and maintain improvements. Page 454Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme A -25 Policy TR-P5.9 Support micromobility options such as bike-, e-bike-, and e-scooter-share. Policy TR-P5.10 Require generous parking for bicycles and other mobility devices at key destinations, such as shopping centers, schools, workplaces, transit stations, and multiple-family housing. Action TR-A5.1 Partner with CCTA and neighboring jurisdictions to build out the countywide bicycle and pedestrian network, prioritizing completion of the Low-Stress Countywide Bicycle Network and pedestrian safety improvement projects in the County’s Pedestrian Priority Areas, as described in the Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan. Action TR-A5.2 Construct innovative bicycle and pedestrian facilities, including Class IV separated and protected bikeways, bicycle superhighways, and other low-stress facility types, as described in the Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan and in contemporary, best-practice transportation planning and engineering guidance. Use contextually appropriate green infrastructure and landscaping to separate vehicular lanes from bicycle and pedestrian facilities whenever feasible. Action TR-A5.3 Periodically review the scoring formula for active transportation projects to ensure continued prioritization of projects in Impacted Communities. Action TR-A5.4 Partner with the cities, EBRPD, and CCTA to develop uniform guidance to manage active micromobility services. Action TR-A5.5 Consider allowing temporary and permanent re-orientation of public space towards increased outdoor activity, including walking, bicycling, rolling, dining, and other social uses. Policy TR-P6.1 Partner with neighboring jurisdictions, CCTA, and the MTC to manage regional movement of goods through unincorporated areas, minimizing impacts on residents and other sensitive receptors. Policy TR-P6.4 Use all available policy tools to ensure that trucks use designated truck routes. Policy TR-P6.5 Work with railroads to preserve non-operational contiguous railroad rights-of-way, and highly encourage construction of grade- separated railroad crossings along active lines, to support current and future rail operations and ensure the long-term viability of these rail corridors. When no longer in operation, maintain options for future use of the corridors for trails or other public purposes. Policy TR-P6.6 Support development of short-line railroad infrastructure and operations in industrial areas to facilitate rail access to Class I railroad lines, attract potential businesses seeking rail-served properties, ease traffic congestion caused by goods movement on regional highways, and reduce GHG emissions. Action TR-A6.1 Develop a program to establish and maintain truck routes, with the goal of minimizing impacts on residents and other sensitive receptors. This program will provide engineering and policy solutions to divert trucks from Impacted Communities and establish criteria for designating weight limits on certain routes and installing physical barriers and signage. Action TR-A6.2 Facilitate enforcement of idling restrictions by promoting community-based reporting to enforcement agencies. Page 455Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 A -26 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme Action TR-A6.4 Develop regulations responding to technological advancements in freight movement, such as autonomous vehicles, robotics, and drone deliveries, while supporting the County’s goals for reducing emissions, adapting to climate change, improving public safety, and increasing equitable mobility. Policy TR-P7.2 Work with the Federal Aviation Administration and aviation operators to minimize conflicts with residential areas and other sensitive receptors. Policy TR-P7.3 Regulate the location of private airfields and heliports to protect public safety and minimize impacts on nearby residents and sensitive receptors. Policy TR-P7.4 Protect the County’s airports from encroachment by incompatible uses and minimize the public’s exposure to safety hazards and excessive noise by ensuring that all future development within each Airport Influence Area is consistent with the Contra Costa County ALUCP. CONSERVATION, OPEN SPACE, AND WORKING LANDS ELEMENT Policy COS-P1.2 Pursue opportunities for permanent open space dedication for habitat, scenic, or passive recreation benefits as part of future development approvals and major capital improvement projects. Policy COS-P1.3 Discourage conversion of land designated Resource Conservation or Parks and Recreation to urban uses. If such conversion occurs, require mitigation through permanent protection of other open space or park lands for habitat, scenic, or recreation benefits at a ratio to be determined based on the biological, scenic, or recreational value of the land, but not less than 3:1. Policy COS-P2.13 Encourage IPM practices that reduce the use of agricultural pesticides and minimize pesticide drift, and discourage farming practices that may expose residents, water resources, and the environment to fine particulates and harmful chemicals. Policy COS-P5.1 Support protection, restoration, and enhancement of creeks, wetlands, marshes, sloughs, and tidelands, and emphasize the role of these features in climate change resilience, air and water quality, and wildlife habitat. Policy COS-P5.7 Allow encroachments into required setback areas along natural watercourses and wetlands for the purpose of constructing public improvements or public-serving amenities, such as bridges, trails, and nature viewing areas. Policy COS-P7.4 For projects in areas without a water service provider, require proof of adequate on-site groundwater during the development review process. In addition to requiring compliance with the County’s well regulations related to water quality and flow rate, require documentation that the proposed project will not have a significant cumulative impact on the aquifer or negatively affect development that already relies on the same groundwater supply. Policy COS-P7.8 Promote installation of drought-tolerant green infrastructure, including street trees, in landscaped public areas. 036 Page 456Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #036 Posted by Derene Allen on 03/12/2024 at 6:56pm [Comment ID: 44] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 I see no mention of protection of existing urban tree canopy through a responsible tree ordinance protecting both native and non-native trees, of a size where they are considered to be both middle aged and old to ensure replacement as old trees die off. Should conditions warrant removal, a replacement requirement should be both requested and enforced. This is essential for a Conservation Policy to prevent the destruction of existing valuable natural resources. Page 457Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme A -27 Policy COS-P7.10 Support programs and activities conducted by community watershed groups and volunteers that increase public awareness and encourage stewardship of water resources. Action COS-A7.2 For areas that are not covered by an adopted GSP, amend the County Ordinance Code to include sustainability indicators, defined by the SGMA, as a guide for development to maintain and protect the quality and quantity of groundwater supplies within the county. Policy COS-P8.1 Protect public water supplies by denying applications for projects that would introduce significant new pollution sources in groundwater basins and watersheds feeding major reservoirs, and support efforts to acquire and permanently protect reservoir watersheds. Policy COS-P8.2 Coordinate with other agencies to control point and non-point sources of water pollution and maintain water quality standards. Policy COS-P8.3 Support development and implementation of a long-term, area-wide integrated vegetation management program to control invasive weeds in a way that reduces pesticide use and preserves water quality. Policy COS-P8.4 Require new development to retain natural vegetation and topography whenever feasible and require projects involving erosion- inducing activities to use best management practices to minimize erosion. Policy COS-P8.5 Require groundwater monitoring programs for all large-scale commercial and industrial facilities using wells and prohibit discharge of hazardous materials through injection wells. Policy COS-P8.6 Support ongoing remediation of the Mount Diablo Mercury Mine. Policy COS-P9.5 Support efforts to expand and enhance public access to the Bay shoreline and Delta. Action COS-A9.1 Amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to incorporate the following requirements for new or expanded marinas and docks: (a) Adequate channel width and depth, as defined by the State Harbors and Navigation Code. (b) Adequate public fire protection services. (c) Adequate public vehicular access. (d) Adequate supply of potable water. (e) Adequate on-site facilities for sewage and solid waste disposal. (f) Compatibility with nearby agricultural uses. (g) Compatibility with nearby conservation/habitat lands. (h) Designed to avoid inundation from projected sea-level rise, as shown on Figures HS-6 through HS-9 (Sea-Level Rise Projection Maps) in the Health and Safety Element. Page 458Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 A -28 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme Action COS-A14.1 Amend County Ordinance Code Chapter 88-14 – Oil and Gas Drilling and Production to: (a) Prohibit new and expanded oil and gas production wells in the following: i. Sensitive ecological areas, such as wetlands and habitat for rare, threatened, endangered, or special-status species. ii. Areas subject to 100-year flood hazards or sea-level rise, as shown in Figures HS-2 and HS-6 through HS-9. iii. Areas within 3,200 feet of sensitive receptors or urban land use designations unless project-specific exceptions are granted by the California Department of Conservation, Geologic Energy Management Division. (b) Restrict oil and gas drilling operations to agricultural zoning districts only. (c) Require a land use permit for all new and expanded oil and gas wells. (d) Require a reclamation plan for oil and gas well sites that includes bonding for site clean-up. (e) Include performance standards related to water quality, air quality, odors, noise, and aesthetics. In parallel, study the feasibility of amending the County Ordinance Code to prohibit development of new oil and gas wells and phase out existing oil and gas well operations. PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES ELEMENT Policy PFS-P1.1 Consider potential effects on the physical, social, cultural, and recreational needs of the surrounding community when developing new County facilities. Policy PFS-P1.2 Locate new County facilities that involve regular community access in places that are easily accessible by public transit, walking, and biking, to the greatest extent possible. Policy PFS-P2.1 Ensure County facilities and services meet the needs of all users, regardless of age, ability, race, ethnicity, culture, language, gender identity, or economic status. Policy PFS-P2.5 Continue to prioritize and adequately fund code enforcement and clean-up of illegal dumping on public and private property in Impacted Communities. Action PFS-A2.3 Implement and maintain urban greening and green infrastructure, such as sustainable/green street projects, in Impacted Communities. Page 459Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme A -29 Action PFS-A2.4 Regularly assess Code Enforcement responses and Public Works maintenance practices to ensure equitable implementation. Prioritize resources to keep Impacted Communities safe and clean, emphasizing enforcement actions on issues identified in Community Profiles. Policy PFS-P4.5 Require new development to demonstrate the availability of a safe, sanitary, and environmentally sound water delivery system with adequate capacity. Policy PFS-P4.6 Require new development to demonstrate the availability of a safe, sanitary, and environmentally sound wastewater treatment system with adequate capacity. Policy PFS-P5.6 When developing new or revised regional drainage and flood management plans, including plans to protect against sea-level rise, incorporate adequate setbacks and alternative drainage system improvements that provide aesthetic, recreational, and environmental benefits. Improvements should avoid structural modifications to watercourses and preserve riparian habitat and floodplains, and convert engineered drainage systems to more natural systems, when and where possible. In areas at risk of temporary or permanent inundation from sea-level rise, ensure that improvements can continue to provide adequate protection for the projected level of inundation by 2100 or the expected operational life of the project, whichever is later. Policy PFS-P5.7 Incorporate green infrastructure into new and retrofitted flood-control and streetscaping projects, including replacing existing asphalt and other hardscapes with green infrastructure, as feasible. Policy PFS-P5.8 Encourage developers of properties along transit corridors and in commercial areas to combine their private stormwater treatment facilities with green infrastructure on the adjoining street frontage. Action PFS-A5.2 Coordinate with responsible parties, public and private, to develop a flood risk management plan for the levee systems protecting the unincorporated county that: (a) Identifies the entities responsible for operation and maintenance of the levees. (b) Determines the anticipated flood levels in the adjacent waterways and the level of protection offered by the existing levees along the waterways. (c) Establishes a long-term plan to upgrade the system as necessary to provide at least a 100-year level of flood protection, and 200-year level of flood protection where required. (d) Considers the worst-case situations of high tides coupled with sea-level rise and storm-driven waves. (e) Protects beneficial uses of San Francisco Bay and the Delta and their water. (f) Prioritizes designs that foster riparian habitat while containing floodwaters, such as by using more natural materials, landforms, and vegetation, rather than concrete channels and other conventional flood-control infrastructure. Page 460Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 A -30 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme (g) Encourages multipurpose flood-management projects that, where feasible, incorporate recreation, resource conservation, preservation of natural riparian habitat, and scenic values of waterways. (h) Takes a holistic approach to flood-risk management so that new infrastructure does not simply transfer flooding impacts from one property or location to another. (i) Considers flood and tidal impacts to existing brownfields, especially adjacent to shorelines. (j) Includes provisions for updates to reflect future State- or federally mandated levels of flood protection. Action PFS-A5.3 Develop watershed management plans incorporating best management practices that slow, spread, and sink water runoff to flatten the hydrograph (i.e., water flow over time) where erosion is a concern, while also enhancing wildlife habitat and recreation opportunities where feasible. Action PFS-A5.5 Coordinate with the Contra Costa County Mosquito and Vector Control District to identify and remedy areas with ongoing drainage problems to reduce disease risk from stagnant water. Policy PFS-P7.8 Consistently use a multiprong approach (i.e., educate, prevent, clean up, enforce) to combat illegal dumping. Policy PFS-P7.9 Prohibit new landfills in ecologically sensitive areas, and require that new landfills be located, designed, and operated to avoid adverse impacts to surrounding land uses, including by limiting the area of landfill activities; limiting hours of operation; providing safe and appropriate transportation routes; maintaining site security; identifying associated off-site feeder transfer stations; grading to blend the landfill disturbance area with surrounding topography; covering refuse daily; and mitigating noise, odor, litter, and visual impacts. Policy PFS-P7.10 Require that new landfills provide the following: (a) An appropriate leachate collection and recovery system. (b) An approved erosion-control and drainage plan. (c) Geotechnical studies, including stability analysis, to determine the most appropriate engineering design. (d) A wetland and/or habitat enhancement plan that provides for at least a 3:1 replacement for lost significant habitat. Policy PFS-P7.11 Require new landfills to be designed and operated so that upon decommissioning they can be repurposed for other uses, such as renewable energy facilities, recycling and organics recovery operations, outdoor recreation facilities, and open space. Page 461Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme A -31 Action PFS-A7.3 Partner with community organizations and solid waste franchise collection haulers to maximize participation in community clean-up days and residential on-call garbage pick-ups in Impacted Communities. Encourage community participation by holding these events in conjunction with other community events whenever possible. Action PFS-A7.4 Work with other counties, cities, and community members to establish public/private partnerships to combat illegal dumping. Action PFS-A7.5 Install signage and increase education, monitoring, enforcement, and rapid cleanup to discourage illegal dumping, especially in Impacted Communities and rural areas. Action PFS-A7.6 Use the County’s legislative platform process and partner with other public agencies throughout the state to propose and support legislation to combat illegal dumping. Policy PFS-P8.1 Support development of a variety of local amenities that meet a diverse range of recreational needs, such as ballfields, all-abilities playgrounds, tot lots, spraygrounds, adult fitness courses, gymnasiums, swimming pools, sport courts, passive parks, pocket parks, urban gardens, and trails. Policy PFS-P8.2 Provide a local park within a safe 10-minute walk for all residents in urban communities or within a 5-minute drive for residents in suburban communities, as indicated in Figures PFS-9 and PFS-10. Policy PFS-P8.3 Annually update park dedication and in-lieu fee requirements based on the Consumer Price Index for All Customers, All Items for the San Francisco-Oakland-San Jose Metropolitan Area to accommodate for increases or decreases in development costs. Conduct a fee study at least once every 10 years to reflect changes in the cost of land, local park and recreational needs, and development conditions. Policy PFS-P8.4 Prioritize and promote recreational activity programs and opportunities in Impacted Communities. Policy PFS-P8.5 Whenever possible, require projects subject to the Park Dedication or Park Impact Fee Ordinances to develop park and recreation amenities listed in, or added to, the County’s Park Capital Improvement Plan. Park Impact fees or in-lieu fees should be assessed when the County determines developer improvements are not feasible. Policy PFS-P8.6 Support expanded access to recreation opportunities by working with other agencies to co-locate parks and trails with public facilities, such as schools and utility easements, with Impacted Communities prioritized. Policy PFS-P8.7 Design recreational facilities to complement the natural features of the area, including topography and vegetation, whenever appropriate. Policy PFS-P8.8 Support expanded public access to the waterfront and development of water-related recreational opportunities, such as fishing and boating. Page 462Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 A -32 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme Policy PFS-P8.9 Support development of a comprehensive and interconnected network of trails, including intra- and inter-regional trails like the San Francisco Bay Trail, Carquinez Strait Scenic Loop Trail, Great California Delta Trail, and Marsh Creek Corridor Trail, that provides public access to shorelines, ridges, and other scenic areas, connects residents with open space and nature, and links urban areas with parks and other recreational facilities. Policy PFS-P8.10 Encourage use of abandoned railroad rights-of-way for trails or other public purposes and participate in collaborative planning processes to determine the best use of abandoned rail corridors. Policy PFS-P8.11 Support local community groups and volunteer organizations in efforts to improve and maintain local parks, trails, and other public spaces, such as through an Adopt-A-Park/Trail program, especially in Impacted Communities. Action PFS-A8.1 Create an internal County entity that works across departments and non-County agencies to coordinate planning and funding of unincorporated local parks, recreational facilities, and trails. Action PFS-A8.2 Coordinate with park and recreation districts and cities to prepare a parks and open space needs assessment for all unincorporated communities, prioritizing Impacted Communities. Integrate the results of the assessment into a Parks Master Plan and the Parks Capital Improvement Program and implement improvements that address barriers to outdoor physical activity, such as inadequate infrastructure and safety concerns. Action PFS-A8.3 Annually update park dedication and in-lieu fee requirements based on the Consumer Price Index for All Customers, All Items for the San Francisco-Oakland-San Jose Metropolitan Area to accommodate for increases or decreases in development costs. Conduct a fee study every ten years to reflect changes in the cost of land, local park and recreational needs, and development conditions. Action PFS-A8.4 Maintain up-to-date maps showing quarter-mile and half-mile walking distances and five-minute driving times to public parks. Policy PFS-P9.3 Encourage school districts to locate school sites within the Urban Limit Line and within or adjacent to existing or planned residential and mixed-use neighborhoods. Policy PFS-P9.4 Encourage school districts to use school sites for multiple community purposes, such as recreation, and to locate new schools in conjunction with and/or adjacent to parks and trails. Policy PFS-P10.2 Locate and design library facilities to provide access to the greatest number of people. Ensure they are sited in areas with broadband internet and close to public transit. HEALTH AND SAFETY ELEMENT Policy HS-P1.1 Coordinate air quality planning efforts with State and regional agencies, such as CARB, BAAQMD, and ABAG/MTC. Page 463Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme A -33 Policy HS-P1.2 Participate in emission and exposure reduction, public education, engagement, outreach, and other programs that promote improved air quality, focusing on Impacted Communities. Policy HS-P1.3 Require new development to adhere to BAAQMD’s Planning Healthy Places guidance when local conditions warrant. Policy HS-P1.4 Require new industrial development to locate significant pollution sources as far away from sensitive receptors as possible. Policy HS-P1.5 Require new sources of air pollution that will generate significant new air quality impacts or expose sensitive receptors to substantial increases in harmful emissions of TACs to prepare a Health Risk Assessment that identifies appropriate mitigation consistent with BAAQMD California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Air Quality Guidelines, based on the findings of the Health Risk Assessment. Policy HS-P1.6 Require that any mitigation of air quality impacts occur on-site to the extent feasible to provide the greatest benefit to local residents. For mitigation that relies on offsets, require that the offsets be obtained from sources as near to the project site as possible. If the project site is within or adjacent to an Impacted Community, require offsets/mitigation within that community unless determined infeasible by the County. Policy HS-P1.7 Require construction activities that involve large grading operations to implement additional construction measures identified in BAAQMD’s CEQA Guidelines to reduce air pollutant emissions. Policy HS-P1.8 Require new or expanded commercial and industrial projects exceeding 25,000 square feet of gross floor area to be near zero- emissions (NZE) operations, including the facilities themselves and the associated fleets. Require all necessary measures, such as the following, to achieve NZE: (a) Reduce on-site energy consumption and increase on-site energy generation and energy storage. (b) Provide adequate on-site ZE vehicle-capable parking for all anticipated truck traffic to prevent idling and off-site queuing. (c) Provide electrified loading docks with receptacles allowing plug-in of refrigerated trailers. (d) Use heavy-duty trucks that are model year 2014 or later and expedite a transition to ZE trucks by establishing a clear timeline for electrification of trucks as they become commercially available. Ensure contracts with motor carriers include air quality incentives or requirements, such as providing incentives to fleets that meet United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) SmartWay standards or requiring use of ZE or NZE trucks. (e) Use a “clean fleet” of delivery vehicles as they become commercially available, but no later than 2025. (f) Use ZEyard equipment, such as forklifts, pallet trucks and jacks, and stackers. (g) Implement practices to control and remove fugitive dust and other contaminants from paved areas. Page 464Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 A -34 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme (h) Uses with fewer than five vehicles domiciled on-site are exempt from this policy. Policy HS-P1.9 Prohibit nonessential diesel engine idling countywide and nonessential idling of all vehicles within 100 feet of sensitive receptors. Policy HS-P1.10 Support efforts to provide HVAC upgrades and portable clean air filters to persons who live in Impacted Communities and other areas burdened by disproportionate exposure to poor air quality. Action HS-A1.1 Consult with BAAQMD and community stakeholders and prepare an Air Quality Community Risk Reduction Plan that applies to areas with high levels of cancer risk, providing a comprehensive strategy to protect community members from the negative health effects of air pollution. Action HS-A1.2 Consult with BAAQMD and community stakeholders and amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to create an Air Pollution Exposure Overlay Zone around freeways that requires new construction in these areas to install enhanced ventilation systems and other strategies to protect people from respiratory, heart, and other health effects associated with breathing polluted air. Action HS-A1.3 Consult with BAAQMD and community stakeholders and amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to include an Industrial- Sensitive Receptor Interface Overlay Zone applied to areas where residential land uses and other sensitive receptors interface or directly abut heavy industrial land uses. In the overlay zone, require industrial uses to reduce pollution and employ strategies to mitigate air quality, noise, vibration, odor, light, visual, and safety impacts on nearby sensitive receptors. In addition, require new sensitive receptors to install enhanced ventilation systems and implement other strategies, paid for by neighboring sources of pollution to the extent possible, to protect residents from health and quality of life impacts. Action HS-A1.4 Consult with BAAQMD and community stakeholders and amend County Ordinance Code Title 7 – Building Regulations to include a clean construction ordinance that requires projects to implement extra measures to reduce emissions at construction sites in or near places that are already overburdened by air pollution, such as Impacted Communities. Action HS-A1.5 Adopt an ordinance at least as stringent as the State’s maximum idling law, and coordinate with CARB and law enforcement to achieve compliance. Action HS-A1.6 Develop a plan to provide convenient and accessible clean air refuges during times when outdoor air quality is deemed unhealthy. Policy PFS-P2.1 When evaluating health risk impacts of projects in Impacted Communities, use an excess cancer risk of 6.0 per million and a non- cancer (acute and chronic) hazard index greater than 1.0 as thresholds for finding that the project could cause a cumulatively considerable contribution and a significant impact. Policy HS-P2.2 Increase the tree canopy on public property, especially in Impacted Communities and areas with a high heat index, by prioritizing funding for new street tree planting and maintenance. Page 465Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme A -35 Policy HS-P2.3 Support protection, restoration, and enhancement of natural landscapes in and near Impacted Communities to improve air quality and community health. Action HS-A2.1 Partner with community members and regulatory agencies to prepare a community-scale plan for reducing and mitigating air pollutant emissions and industrial hazards, such as pipeline risks, accidents, potential water or soil contamination, and impacts to sensitive ecological resources for each Impacted Community, or group of Impacted Communities, as appropriate. Require future projects to demonstrate consistency with those plans. Action HS-A2.2 Coordinate with community members, BAAQMD, and other regulatory agencies to facilitate AB 617 citizen-led programs, including data collection, monitoring of pollution exposure, and identification and implementation of solutions in Impacted Communities. Consider future General Plan and Zoning Code amendments as needed to support BAAQMD in meeting AB 617 objectives. Action HS-A2.3 Conduct a housing condition survey in Impacted Communities to identify units likely requiring upgrades to provide adequate protection from toxic releases. Based on the survey’s findings, target outreach to provide information about weatherization and similar improvement programs. Action HS-A2.4 Coordinate with BAAQMD to determine where to focus a targeted permit inspection program in Impacted Communities to help ensure enforcement of air quality permits. Action HS-A2.5 Prepare a tree master plan for the county that emphasizes planting of low-maintenance native tree species and includes quantified goals and tracking methods, including mapping the tree canopy, and prioritizes planting in Impacted Communities and along safe routes to schools. Policy HS-P3.2 Facilitate carbon-neutral development projects and communities that support a circular economy, net-zero-emission modes of transportation, reliable and renewable energy resources, energy-efficient buildings, zero waste, water efficiency and conservation, green infrastructure, soil conservation, and a system of natural and working lands that support carbon sequestration and climate resilience. Policy HS-P4.1 When considering development proposals and land use changes, treat susceptibility to hazards and threats to health and human life as primary considerations. Policy HS-P4.5 As climate conditions change, evaluate the feasibility of implementing adaptive land use strategies to help avoid repetitive threats to life and property. Policy HS-P6.3 Require new industrial development in areas subject to sea-level rise, emergent groundwater flooding, or tsunami inundation to provide plans for prevention and remediation of any contaminant releases induced by these hazards, along with bonds that guarantee remediation plans are implemented. Remediation should meet standards that protect people and the environment in the event of future permanent inundation. Page 466Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 A -36 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme Action HS-A7.6 Pursue grants and other funding mechanisms to retrofit ventilation systems at County buildings to provide refuge for residents during periods of unhealthy air quality caused by excessive wildfire smoke. Policy HS-P8.1 Coordinate with public agencies, utilities, and community-based organizations to provide community resilience centers in all regions of the county during extreme heat events, severe weather events, and other highly hazardous conditions. Work to ensure that these facilities are in highly accessible areas and that information about their availability is widely distributed, especially to vulnerable populations. Policy HS-P8.3 Require new commercial parking lots with 50 or more spaces to mitigate heat gain through installation of shade trees, solar arrays, or other emerging cooling technologies. Prioritize the use of solar arrays where feasible and appropriate. Policy HS-P8.4 Support efforts by East Bay Regional Park District and other local recreation agencies to provide outdoor recreation facilities with adequate shading and refillable water stations where appropriate. Policy HS-A8.1 Amend County Ordinance Code Chapter 82-16 – Off-Street Parking to achieve consistency with Policy HS-P8.3. Policy HS-P9.1 Provide equitable inspection and enforcement of hazardous material and hazardous waste regulations throughout the county. Policy HS-P9.3 Require new industrial development to reduce generation and disposal of hazardous materials to the maximum extent feasible by (listed in order of importance): (a) Implementing operational source reduction strategies and replacing hazardous materials with less hazardous materials. (b) Reducing generation of those wastes not amenable to source reduction or recycling. (c) Recovering and recycling the remaining waste for reuse. (d) Properly disposing of hazardous wastes and residuals generated from treatment of hazardous waste. Policy HS-P9.4 Support development of alternative hazardous waste management technologies and methodologies that reduce the relative risk to human health and the environment. Policy HS-P9.5 Require facilities that manage hazardous materials or hazardous waste in stationary or fixed storage tanks and that are in areas at risk of inundation from sea-level rise and flooding to conduct sea-level rise studies to address the risk of hazardous materials release from rising water levels, including rising groundwater. Require these facilities to incorporate best management practices to reduce the risk of release. Policy HS-P9.8 Require applicants for projects in Impacted Communities that involve hazardous materials or hazardous waste to provide clear information in plain language about potential hazards their projects pose to nearby residents. Review and verify this information, make it available to residents, and encourage project applicants to host at least one community meeting to discuss potential hazards. Page 467Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme A -37 Policy HS-P9.9 Discourage construction of new large-scale facilities that treat, store, or dispose of hazardous waste from off-site sources and negatively impact Impacted Communities. Policy HS-P9.10 Prohibit new hazardous waste facilities in the following areas: (a) Watersheds of an existing or planned drinking water reservoir. (b) Ecologically significant resource areas. (c) Within 200 feet of an active or potentially active fault. (d) Within a 100-year floodplain. (e) Within a setback distance determined in accordance with DTSC guidance under SB 673, once final. Policy HS-P9.11 Require design and operation of new or expanded hazardous waste facilities to adhere to the following criteria, as well as the permitting criteria established by the DTSC for vulnerable communities and cumulative impacts pursuant to SB 673, once final: (a) Minimize risk to the surrounding area in the case of a hazardous waste accident or spill. (b) Ensure spills of waste will not reach the Bay, Delta, streams, creeks, reservoirs, or other bodies of water or environmentally sensitive resources by incorporating buffers as appropriate and/or using engineered structural design features (e.g., spill containment and monitoring devices). (c) Avoid known or suspected groundwater recharge areas or areas where residential uses rely on wells. If located in such areas, facilities must provide properly engineered spill containment features, inspection measures, and other environmental protection controls. (d) In areas with unstable soils, such as steep slopes and areas subject to liquefaction or subsidence, ensure structural stability through engineered design features. (e) Use access roads leading to major transportation routes that: • Do not traverse residential neighborhoods. • Minimize, buffer, or employ physical barriers to residential frontages. • Demonstrate road network safety through road design, construction, accident rates, and traffic flow. (f) Minimize noise impacts on the surrounding area. Page 468Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 A -38 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme Policy HS-P9.12 Require hazardous waste facilities to prepare a cumulative risk assessment that analyzes, characterizes, and quantifies the combined risks to human health and the environment from the facility, in combination with other off-site hazardous materials risks. The assessment must consider risks in the absence of actions to control or mitigate a potential release and determine whether buffers or other mitigation is necessary to protect residential uses, immobile populations (e.g., schools, hospitals, behavioral health facilities, convalescent homes, and prisons), other places where people gather, environmentally sensitive resources, and other sensitive areas from adverse emissions or contamination. The assessment must also be guided by DTSC guidance for vulnerable communities and cumulative impacts pursuant to SB 673, once final. Require that project applicants fund the needed technical review for the assessment. Policy HS-P9.14 Encourage and facilitate establishment of adequate sites for collection of household hazardous waste (HHW), unused pharmaceuticals, and universal wastes, along with provisions for residents who are physically unable to deliver materials to a collection site. Action HS-A9.1 Provide technical assistance to hazardous waste generators to encourage them to reduce their hazardous waste to the maximum extent feasible. Action HS-A9.3 Provide information to county residents about less toxic alternatives to household products containing universal wastes and the safe handling, storage, and disposal of such products, including pharmaceuticals. Policy HS-P10.1 Coordinate with other agencies in efforts to remediate or treat contaminated surface water, groundwater, and soils in or affecting Impacted Communities. Policy HS-P10.2 Require development of contaminated sites to comply with all clean-up plans, land use covenants, and deed restrictions imposed by the DTSC or Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB). Policy HS-P10.3 Require new or expanded industrial uses involving hazardous materials or wastes to provide sufficient funds, in the form of a cash deposit, surety bond, or other financial instrument acceptable to the County, to guarantee site remediation, including removal of facilities, equipment, and structures, and ensure community safety and site reusability. Action HS-A10.1 Support public access to the inventory of contaminated sites published by the DTSC and SWRCB by posting links to this information on the County’s website. Policy HS-P12.3 Coordinate with cities, school districts, recreation and park districts, and community-based organizations to ensure adequate emergency shelters, community resilience centers, and alternate care sites are available when natural disasters and other highly hazardous conditions, such as industrial accidents, occur. Policy HS-P12.4 Ensure there are adequate identified locations for alternate care sites, especially in Impacted Communities. Policy HS-A12.6 Establish standardized triggers (temperature, air quality, etc.) for opening County-operated community resilience centers. Page 469Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme A -39 Policy HS-A12.9 Coordinate with transit providers to identify and advertise ways for individuals with restricted mobility to reach resilience centers, cooling centers, and alternate care sites. Policy HS-P14.1 Require projects that would locate noise-sensitive land uses in areas where the projected ambient noise level is greater than the “normally acceptable” noise level indicated in Table HS-3 to provide an acoustical analysis that recommends appropriate mitigation to meet the noise compatibility standards. Policy HS-P14.2 Require new housing developments, hotels, and motels exposed to a DNL of 60 dB or greater to provide a detailed acoustical analysis describing how the project will provide an interior DNL of 45 dB or less. Policy HS-P14.3 Require new nonresidential uses exposed to a DNL of 65 dB or greater to provide a detailed acoustical analysis describing how the project will provide an interior sound level of 50 Leq (1-hr). Policy HS-P14.4 Require new residential development in areas exposed to a DNL in excess of 65 dB due to single events, such as train operation, to provide an acoustical analysis describing how indoor noise levels from these single events will not exceed a maximum A-weighted noise level of 35 dB in bedrooms and 55 dB in other habitable rooms. In areas exposed to a DNL in excess of 65 dB, use an indoor residential noise-level threshold of 45 dB CNEL. Policy HS-P14.5 Protect noise-sensitive land uses listed in Table HS-3 from adverse noise impacts by requiring mitigation to the degree feasible for projects that would increase long-term noise in excess of the following thresholds, when measured at the sensitive use’s property line: (a) Greater than 1.5 dBA DNL increase for ambient noise environments of 65 dBA DNL and higher. (b) Greater than 3 dBA DNL increase for ambient noise environments of 60 to 64 DNL. (c) Greater than 5 dBA DNL increase for ambient noise environments of less than 60 dBA DNL. Policy HS-P14.6 Design County projects to minimize long-term noise impacts on existing residents and follow best practices to minimize short-term impacts from construction noise. Policy HS-P14.7 Condition entitlements to limit noise-generating construction activities to the following: (a) Weekdays and non-holidays unless site-specific conditions warrant exceptions. (b) Within 1,000 feet of noise-sensitive uses: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (c) Over 1,000 feet from noise-sensitive uses: 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Policy HS-P14.8 Require a traffic noise analysis for development projects where the project would generate more than 40 percent of daily trips over existing average daily traffic (ADT) on impacted roadway segments. Projects below this threshold are assumed to have no significant Page 470Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 A -40 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme traffic noise impact because they would increase noise levels by less than 1.5 dBA DNL, which is the most restrictive threshold for determining a significant traffic noise impact. This screening policy does not apply to projects involving a substantial number of new operational truck trips (e.g., warehouses). Policy HS-P14.9 Require effective measures along major transportation facilities/corridors to reduce impacts on adjacent noise-sensitive land uses. Policy HS-P14.11 When reviewing proposals for new vibration-sensitive uses near an existing railroad or Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) line, use Table HS-4 to evaluate whether the sensitive uses could be exposed to excessive groundborne vibration. Projects with sensitive uses within the screening distances identified in the table will require preparation of a groundborne vibration and noise evaluation that is consistent with Federal Transit Administration-approved methodologies. Action HS-A14.1 Study the feasibility of adopting a noise ordinance establishing maximum exterior noise levels at sensitive receptors for noise generated by permanent and temporary stationary, non-transportation sources and construction sources. Action HS-A14.2 Pursue federal Quiet Zone status for rail crossings that are a noise nuisance to nearby residential areas and other noise-sensitive land uses. Page 471Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme A -41 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRONGER COMMUNITIES ELEMENT Policy SC-P1.1 In partnership with residents of Impacted Communities, affected workers, business/industry, environmental and environmental justice advocates, community colleges, workforce development and training entities, local government, and other involved agencies, support transition from petroleum refining and other highly polluting industries to a net-zero emission economy based on renewable and sustainable industries that provide living-wage jobs. Policy SC-P1.2 Streamline the permitting process for new development, redevelopment, and rehabilitation that promotes community objectives in Impacted Communities, as identified in the Community Profiles. Policy SC-P1.3 Support development of walkable districts that provide a range of neighborhood-serving retail and service uses, public amenities, and related infrastructure (such as lighting) to residents of Impacted Communities within walking distance of their homes. Action SC-A1.1 Partner with the stakeholders identified in Policy SC-P1.1 to develop and implement a plan to transition from petroleum-refining and other highly polluting industries to renewable, sustainable, and clean industries that provide living-wage jobs. The plan should address site remediation responsibilities along with timelines and strategies to improve health, safety, infrastructure, job opportunities, and revenue opportunities during the transition toward a net-zero-emission economy, paying special attention to developing new opportunities for Impacted Communities to realize economic, health, educational, and other benefits. Action SC-A1.3 With input from residents of Impacted Communities, amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 - Zoning to create an Impacted Communities Overlay Zone that applies to areas within and adjacent to Impacted Communities and establishes requirements for discretionary permits for nonresidential developments of 25,000 square feet or more. The overlay zone will include additional required project findings that promote environmental justice, health, and safety. Projects able to satisfy the required findings will: (a) Provide benefits that support the community objectives, such as those identified in the Community Profile. (b) Provide economic benefits for the community. (c) Avoid unwelcome permanent displacement of existing residents or businesses in the community. (d) Support community resiliency, cohesion, and safety. (e) Positively impact health and quality of life within the community. As part of the process to develop this ordinance, create guidance for demonstrating consistency with these findings. Page 472Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 A -42 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme Action SC-A1.5 Establish a process for the County to assist community-based organizations and public-private partners with obtaining financing (e.g., grants) to implement physical improvements and beautification projects such as murals, vegetative buffers, and planting strips in Impacted Communities. Policy SC-P2.8 Stimulate investment in communities by using CEQA infill exemptions to expedite environmental review and reduce project costs. Policy SC-P4.4 Support programs that increase the availability of recycled water for urban agriculture and landscaping through self-fill stations and similar facilities. Action SC-A4.1 Amend the urban agriculture provisions in County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to address the following: (a) Zoning districts where urban agriculture is allowed. (b) Permitting requirements. (c) Development and performance standards. (d) Environmentally safe and sustainable practices. (e) Sale of crops and value-added products. (f) Animal husbandry. (g) Disposal of food waste and agricultural byproducts. Policy SC-P5.1 Increase access to fresh food in Impacted Communities by encouraging grocery stores, and urban agriculture, farmers’ markets, and neighborhood kitchens on vacant or underutilized lands. Treat such uses as community benefits in and of themselves. Policy SC-P5.2 Maximize multimodal access to fresh food in Impacted Communities, prioritizing micro-mobility and pedestrian access, by encouraging grocery stores, healthy corner stores, community gardens, and outdoor markets at key transit nodes and within transit- oriented developments. Policy SC-P5.3 Provide temporary, and possibly permanent, access to County facilities and land for farmers’ markets and community gardens, especially in Impacted Communities. Action SC-A5.2 Amend the County Ordinance Code and/or procedures to streamline permitting processes for grocery stores and markets in Impacted Communities and food deserts. Action SC-A5.3 Develop incentives to attract grocery stores, markets, and establishments selling fresh produce, preferably locally grown, in areas with poor access to fresh food. Page 473Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme A -43 Policy SC-P7.2 Pursue arts and cultural investments as a tool for economic development, especially in Impacted Communities. Policy SC-P8.1 Support schools, training programs, the WDB, and other institutions whose mission is to develop and enhance local workforce skills, including training and apprenticeship programs. Policy SC-P8.2 Leverage opportunities to pursue workforce development, job training and re-training programs, and public-private partnerships that support economic growth. Support career pathway programs hosted by various County departments and encourage County staff to participate as mentors. Policy SC-P8.3 Welcome businesses, especially family-sustaining, locally hiring, sustainable businesses, that provide essential goods and services in Impacted Communities, including food stores with fresh produce, healthcare, childcare, pharmacies, and other retailers, while discouraging predatory lenders, liquor stores, tobacco and cannabis retail stores, dollar stores, and fast-food restaurants. Policy SC-P8.4 Promote entrepreneurship, innovation, and locally owned businesses and enterprises, especially ethnic, immigrant, and Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) entrepreneurship, for the purpose of improving economic self-sufficiency and stability, including through outreach efforts to local small business owners while minimizing permitting barriers. Policy SC-P8.5 Encourage more daycares, preschools, and early childhood development centers to make childcare more accessible and affordable for working families. Action SC-A8.1 Establish a First Source Hiring Program requiring developers, contractors, and employers to make good-faith efforts toward employing the local construction workforce, with emphasis on residents of Impacted Communities and those who are economically disadvantaged. Action SC-A8.2 Partner with school districts, community colleges, community organizations, large employers, trade associations, unions, and job training centers to support enhanced job-skills training, recruitment programs and services, and childcare services to support the county’s workforce, especially workers in Impacted Communities. Work with experienced groups to ensure that programs will be properly staffed and funded. Training and intervention strategies should reduce barriers to employment for youth, formerly incarcerated residents, and residents with limited English proficiency, and should support a just transition from a fossil-fuel reliant economy by re-training displaced workers with skills for living-wage jobs in new industries. Action SC-A8.3 Explore the feasibility of establishing a revolving loan fund, grant program, or business incubator that supports small business formation and expansion in Impacted Communities. Connect to industries such as advanced manufacturing, biomedical/biotech, food, transportation technology, and clean technology that support an economic transition from fossil fuels. Action SC-A8.4 Develop and sufficiently fund a program to offer one-on-one support to small businesses in Impacted Communities. Through this program, provide guidance related to available grants and other forms of financing, access to innovation, access to emerging industries and markets, and mentorship. Page 474Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 A -44 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme Action SC-A8.5 Explore use of existing federal and State government economic development programs, such as the “Opportunity Zone” program, “HUB Zone” program, and contracting designations, as a means to generate funding for transit, housing, and capital improvements, while attracting private investment. Policy SC-P9.1 Work collaboratively with cities and other local agencies to leverage Contra Costa County’s competitive assets and elevate the county’s role in the economic and cultural growth of the Bay Area and California. Policy SC-P9.2 Position Contra Costa County to be a hub of production and employment for industries that spur economic growth and innovation in the transition to a zero-emission economy. Policy SC-P9.3 Support business retention, expansion, and attraction efforts that diversify and strengthen the economy with special emphasis on businesses and industries that provide living-wage jobs, invest in the community, hire from the local workforce, and embrace sustainability. Policy SC-P9.4 Maintain a well-balanced regulatory environment that facilitates business investment and expansion while addressing community concerns about potential impacts. Policy SC-P9.5 Continue to support and expand local tourism. Emphasize memorable experiences available in Contra Costa County, such as agritourism, and recreational opportunities offered by unique natural features such as the Delta and Mount Diablo. Policy SC-P9.6 Recognize agriculture as an important part of the County’s economy and maintain conditions that support its ongoing economic viability. Policy SC-P9.7 Strengthen the viability of the Northern Waterfront as a dynamic economic asset and destination recreational area. Work with partner agencies to support beneficial, environmentally sustainable investment in this area. Policy SC-P9.8 Support formation of the Green Empowerment Zone for the Northern Waterfront area and development of designated PPAs. Policy SC-P9.9 Maximize Byron Airport’s potential as a hub of aviation technology and innovation. Action SC-A9.1 Adopt an Economic Development Strategy. The strategy should define a vision for the county’s economy, identify and target suitable growth industries, and facilitate different types of economic development and employment growth in targeted areas. Action SC-A9.2 Implement the Northern Waterfront Economic Development Initiative, including business attraction efforts aimed at biomedical and life science businesses, food and beverage processing, advanced materials and diversified manufacturing, advanced transportation technology, and clean technology. Action SC-A9.3 Evaluate commercial and industrial regulations and permitting practices on an ongoing basis to ensure that they: (a) Address contemporary uses and activities. Promote compatibility between new and legacy uses. Page 475Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme A -45 (b) Avoid creating unnecessary barriers that hinder economic expansion, investment, and sustainable growth. Action SC-A9.4 Expand the Small Business Assistance Program, working collaboratively with technical assistance service providers. Action SC-A9.5 Explore the feasibility of establishing a small and micro-business fee-waiver program. Action SC-A9.6 Expand the County’s participation in the State’s Green Business Program. LAND USE ELEMENT Policy LU-P3.1 Support regional efforts to achieve a jobs-housing balance within the county and within subregions of the county by maintaining an adequate supply of developable land designated for job-generating uses. For any General Plan amendment proposing to convert commercial, industrial, or office land uses to residential or non-urban land uses, evaluate the project’s effect on the local and countywide jobs-housing balance. Policy LU-P3.2 Encourage residential development in or near existing employment centers, and development of job-generating uses near areas that are primarily residential. Where large-scale residential or commercial development is planned, encourage a mix of housing and employment opportunities unless doing so would exacerbate a severe jobs-housing imbalance in the area. Policy LU-P3.5 Encourage development of housing that meets the needs of the local workforce and living-wage jobs that maximize the education, skills, and talents of county residents. Action LU-A3.1 Evaluate financial strategies and tools, such as Enhanced Infrastructure Financing Districts, to attract housing to employment areas and create new employment centers near residential areas. Policy LU-P8.1 Plan for a sufficient quantity, variety, and distribution of commercial uses to meet the basic daily needs of residents in communities throughout the county. Policy LU-P8.2 Support development of neighborhood-serving commercial services in and adjacent to residential areas where they can be accessed easily using multiple modes of transportation. Policy LU-P8.4 Support rehabilitation of commercial centers, encouraging improvements that enhance appearance, sustainability, and non-motorized (pedestrian, bicycle, etc.) access and safety. Policy LU-P8.7 Encourage growth of the county’s hospitality sector, including heritage tourism, waterfront amenities, farm-to-table restaurants, other dining and entertainment establishments, commercial recreation, various types of accommodations, and visitor services. Page 476Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 A -46 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme Policy LU-P8.8 Accommodate a variety of land uses at Buchanan Field and Byron Airports, consistent with the master plan for each facility. A range of commercial aviation functions, including fixed-base operators, aviation businesses, and passenger facilities and services, should be allowed, as well as ancillary uses that support the economic viability of each airport. Policy LU-P8.9 Plan land uses and activities in the vicinity of harbors to optimize their use for commerce and recreation while accounting for forecasted sea-level rise by 2100 under a medium-high risk aversion scenario, subsidence, and groundwater threats. Action LU-A8.1 Monitor shifts in the office and retail markets to determine whether General Plan, zoning, and other regulatory changes that facilitate conversion of vacant or obsolete space to new uses are warranted. Policy LU-P9.1 Welcome industries that create living-wage jobs and career advancement opportunities for county residents while minimizing environmental degradation. Policy LU-P9.2 Welcome new businesses that improve supply chains for core local industries, including agriculture and food. Policy LU-P9.4 Prioritize industrial land along the Bay and Delta shoreline for uses requiring deep-water access or large quantities of raw water for their processes (e.g., cooling), and discourage siting of other industrial uses that could be accommodated elsewhere. Continue partnering with regional agencies to ensure reliable deep-water access to industrial sites. Action LU-A9.1 Maintain formal “Priority Production Areas” designation of key industrial areas by ABAG/ MTC, confirming their long-term importance to the region and facilitating future investment. Pursue coordinated economic development funding for these areas. Action LU-A9.2 Monitor shifts in industrial markets resulting from the transition from fossil fuels and evaluate the County’s industrial land supply for opportunity zones or innovation districts that can accommodate industries such as advanced manufacturing, prefabricated housing production, biomedical/biotech, logistics and mobility hubs and transportation technology, clean technology, and maker spaces. Consider General Plan, zoning, and other regulatory changes that facilitate conversion of vacant or obsolete space to new uses as warranted. Action LU-A9.3 Amend the County Ordinance Code and/or procedures to streamline the permitting process for businesses and industries that provide living-wage jobs, invest in the community, hire from the local workforce, and embrace sustainability. TRANSPORTATION ELEMENT Policy TR-P6.2 Support roadway improvements that facilitate regional goods movement, such as construction of SR 239 and the Vasco Road-Byron Highway Connector near Byron, and replacement of the Old River Bridge near Discovery Bay. Policy TR-P6.3 Work with ABAG/MTC to improve resilience, speed, and reliability of goods movement through expansion of smaller ports-of-entry which will increase redundancy, thereby limiting exposure to disruptive events at larger congested ports. Page 477Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme A -47 Policy TR-P6.6 Support development of short-line railroad infrastructure and operations in industrial areas to facilitate rail access to Class I railroad lines, attract potential businesses seeking rail-served properties, ease traffic congestion caused by goods movement on regional highways, and reduce GHG emissions. Policy TR-P6.7 Support deepening and ongoing maintenance of the deep-water ship channels between San Francisco Bay and Stockton and continued deep-water access to the county’s Northern Waterfront. Policy TR-P6.8 Support continued operation, maintenance, and further development of ports and terminals consistent with federal, State, and County environmental policies and economic priorities. Action TR-A6.4 Develop regulations responding to technological advancements in freight movement, such as autonomous vehicles, robotics, and drone deliveries, while supporting the County’s goals for reducing emissions, and adapting to climate change, improving public safety, and increasing equitable mobility. Policy TR-P7.1 Partner with other agencies to obtain funding for planning, development, improvement, operation, and maintenance of general and commercial aviation facilities. Policy TR-P7.5 Partner with the cities of Concord and Pleasant Hill in making land use decisions that support Buchanan Field Airport's ongoing viability while protecting public safety, consistent with the Airport Master Plan and ALUCP. Policy TR-P7.6 Enhance Byron Airport’s viability by protecting it from incompatible urban encroachment, such as large-scale residential development, and providing infrastructure that supports existing and planned airport activities, consistent with the Airport Master Plan and ALUCP. Policy TR-P7.7 Embrace emerging aviation-related technologies, such as drones, electric-powered aviation, and vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, to promote economic development and support the County’s goals for reducing emissions, adapting to climate change, improving public safety, and increasing equitable mobility. Action TR-A7.1 Update the ALUCP every 5 to 10 years to maintain consistency with applicable federal and State requirements, regional plans, and this General Plan, and to achieve the County’s goals for Buchanan Field Airport and Byron Airport. CONSERVATION, OPEN SPACE, AND WORKING LANDS ELEMENT Policy COS-P2.1 Preserve large, contiguous areas of the county for agricultural production. Prohibit projects that would lead to fragmentation of agricultural areas. Policy COS-P2.4 Require new projects adjacent to agriculture to establish buffers on their properties as necessary to minimize conflicts and protect agriculture. Policy COS-P2.5 When resolving conflicts between agricultural uses and urban uses, prioritize maintaining the viability of the agricultural uses. Page 478Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 A -48 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme Policy COS-P2.6 Require deed disclosures for new residential development in or adjacent to areas designated or zoned for agricultural use. The disclosures must explain the potential disturbances associated with agricultural operations (e.g., dust, noise, odors, and use of pesticides) and reference the Right-to-Farm Ordinance, which protects agricultural operations from nuisance complaints and unreasonable restrictions. Policy COS-P2.7 Encourage owners of qualifying agricultural land to participate in the Williamson Act (Agricultural Preserve) Program. Policy COS-P2.8 Support public infrastructure projects and programs that will increase, enhance, and protect agricultural land and its production capabilities. Policy COS-P2.9 Coordinate with Byron-Bethany Irrigation District and East Contra Costa Irrigation District to facilitate water conservation, efficient use of agricultural irrigation water, and implementation of emerging water reuse technologies and practices. Policy COS-P2.13 Encourage IPM practices that reduce the use of agricultural pesticides and minimize pesticide drift, and discourage farming practices that may expose residents, water resources, and the environment to fine particulates and harmful chemicals. Action COS-A2.4 Adopt development standards and/or design guidelines for urban land uses that interface with agricultural uses addressing, at minimum: (a) Setbacks on urban properties to provide a buffer for agricultural uses. (b) Location and arrangement of buildings, structures, and uses on nonagricultural properties. (c) Lighting, fencing, screening, and vegetation. Policy COS-P3.1 Support development of public and private infrastructure and services needed to support agriculture. Policy COS-P3.2 Support efforts to promote and market locally grown and value-added agricultural products. Policy COS-P3.3 Enable farmers to showcase farm products grown on-site and elsewhere within the county and offer on-site farm experiences, such as culinary classes, farm-to-table meals, tastings, and special events, while maintaining the character and integrity of the surrounding agricultural landscape. Policy COS-P3.4 Enable farmers and ranchers to provide small-scale, short-term guest accommodations in a manner that is nondisruptive to the rural setting. Policy COS-P3.5 Assist the agricultural community through the County's economic development programs. Policy COS-P3.7 Support rural property owners who apply to the Contra Costa LAFCO to detach agricultural land outside the Urban Limit Line (ULL) from special districts that provide urban services. Page 479Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme A -49 Action COS-A3.2 Partner with the agricultural community and agencies such as the Delta Protection Commission to obtain funding for design, installation, and ongoing maintenance of proper signage promoting agriculture in the county, including wayfinding signage for agricultural tourism (e.g., U-pick, lodging, food service, winery) uses. Action COS-A3.3 Designate a staff position in DCD to serve as a point of contact to guide members of the agricultural community in understanding the processes at DCD, help DCD staff understand the particular needs of the agricultural community, and coordinate with other agencies, such as the Contra Costa RCD, USDA NRCS, UCCE, County Department of Agriculture, Weights, and Measures, and County Environmental Health Division. Action COS-A3.4 Work with the agricultural community and UCCE to promote education, training, information-sharing programs, and networking opportunities for farmers, ranchers, and agricultural agencies to increase agriculture’s resilience to climate change hazards. Action COS-A3.5 Coordinate with the Contra Costa RCD, USDA NRCS, UCCE, Contra Costa Mosquito and Vector Control District, County Department of Agriculture, Weights, and Measures, and County Environmental Health Division to support sustainable and resilient agricultural operations through vegetation and pest management programs, best management practices, technical assistance related to soil health, funding opportunities for efficient irrigation infrastructure, and information about alternative crop types that are drought-, heat- , and severe weather-resistant. Policy COS-P13.1 Protect valuable mineral resources by prohibiting incompatible projects and land uses (i.e., those that would directly or indirectly interfere with extraction, processing, or transportation of mineral resources) within the MRAs identified in Figure COS-11. Policy COS-P13.3 For residential subdivisions within one mile of the MRAs depicted in Figure COS-11, require deed disclosures indicating the presence of the mineral resource and explaining potential disturbances (e.g., noise, dust, heavy truck traffic) associated with mineral extraction activities. Action COS-A14.10 Support legislative efforts to establish a green bank able to equitably finance sustainability projects, including renewable energy, energy efficiency, and green infrastructure, for residential and commercial customers. PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES ELEMENT Policy PFS-P3.6 When adopting, amending, and imposing impact fees, community benefits agreements, and developer exactions, consider the effects of such fees and exactions upon individual project economics, housing supply, economic development, and the County’s broad goals and objectives related to overall community development. If gap funding can be identified, consider fee reductions or exemptions for projects in Impacted Communities that are consistent with the community objectives identified in their Community Profile. Page 480Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 A -50 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme HEALTH AND SAFETY ELEMENT Policy HS-P3.3 Facilitate carbon-neutral development projects and communities that support a circular economy, net-zero-emission modes of transportation, reliable and renewable energy resources, energy-efficient buildings, zero waste, water efficiency and conservation, green infrastructure, soil conservation, and a system of natural and working lands that support carbon sequestration and climate resilience. Policy HS-P10.3 Require new or expanded industrial uses involving hazardous materials or wastes to provide sufficient funds, in the form of a cash deposit, surety bond, or other financial instrument acceptable to the County, to guarantee site remediation, including removal of facilities, equipment, and structures, and ensure community safety and site reusability. Page 481Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme A -51 SUSTAINABILITY STRONGER COMMUNITIES ELEMENT Policy SC-P1.1 In partnership with residents of Impacted Communities, affected workers, business/industry, environmental and environmental justice advocates, community colleges, workforce development and training entities, local government, and other involved agencies, support transition from petroleum refining and other highly polluting industries to a net-zero emission economy based on renewable and sustainable industries that provide living-wage jobs. Policy SC-P1.3 Support development of walkable districts that provide a range of neighborhood-serving retail and service uses, public amenities, and related infrastructure (such as lighting) to residents of Impacted Communities within walking distance of their homes. Action SC-A1.1 Partner with the stakeholders identified in Policy SC-P1.1 to develop and implement a plan to transition from petroleum-refining and other highly polluting industries to renewable, sustainable, and clean industries that provide living-wage jobs. The plan should address site remediation responsibilities along with timelines and strategies to improve health, safety, infrastructure, job opportunities, and revenue opportunities during the transition toward a net-zero-emission economy, paying special attention to developing new opportunities for Impacted Communities to realize economic, health, educational, and other benefits. Policy SC-P2.3 Within established communities, complete construction of sidewalks and crosswalks and encourage neighborhood design and development that supports safe walking, biking, and other micro-mobility options, convenient access to services and transit, and opportunities for local shopping. Policy SC-P2.4 Provide functional civic space and well-maintained public amenities near high-volume transit hubs. Each hub area should project a positive visual image, a strong and unique identity, and a safe, inviting environment for pedestrians and passengers. Policy SC-P2.6 Leverage community-specific natural features, such as creeks, shorelines, and trails, to strengthen community identity and connect residents to nature. Policy SC-P4.4 Support programs that increase the availability of recycled water for urban agriculture and landscaping through self-fill stations and similar facilities. Action SC-A6.1 Obtain additional funding for and address barriers to participation in the County’s Weatherization Program and similar programs like the Contra Costa Asthma Initiative and Neighborhood Preservation Program for extremely low-, very low-, and low-income homeowners, seniors, landlords, and renters. Focus these efforts on homes in Impacted Communities, particularly rental and multiple- family housing. Page 482Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 A -52 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme Action SC-A6.2 Create a bulk buying program or revolving loan fund that allows people to purchase energy-efficient electric appliances (air conditioners, fans, air purifiers, heaters, stoves, ovens, etc.) and other items that increase building efficiency at wholesale prices or minimal cost, possibly with zero-percent interest financing, to increase energy efficiency and replace hazardous appliances. Work with volunteer groups that help people install and dispose of air conditioners and other electrical appliances if they are unable to do so themselves, focusing on Impacted Communities and other areas with high concentrations of vulnerable people. Consider augmenting energy-efficiency programs to reduce electricity use and help offset the cost of operating electrical appliances. Action SC-A6.3 Partner with local solar energy providers to enact a solar group buy program to purchase solar panels and battery storage in bulk for installation in Impacted Communities, including establishment and subsidization of community solar programs that supply electricity to multiple consumers from a single photovoltaic solar location. The program should include an educational component to inform the community about the benefits and process of solar installation and give them the opportunity to enroll in the program at a discounted rate. Action SC-A7.2 Partner with recycling centers to establish artist-in-residence programs to support art education while encouraging residents to repurpose unwanted items and conserve natural resources. LAND USE ELEMENT Policy LU-P2.5 Encourage infill development. Policy LU-P2.6 Encourage clustering of allowable densities to reduce development footprints; protect scenic resources, natural features, and open spaces; and avoid hazardous areas (e.g., floodplains). Policy LU-P3.3 Encourage extremely high-density, mixed-use development that combines employment, housing, and services near major transit facilities. Such development should be planned and designed to encourage walking, micromobility, and transit use; shorter commutes; and reduced dependency on single-occupant vehicles. Policy LU-P3.4 Encourage conversion of existing commercial areas to mixed-use nodes and corridors. Policy LU-P3.7 Welcome development that supports the countywide goal of reducing VMT, thus reducing greenhouse gas emissions, to meet climate change targets. Require projects that do not support the County’s VMT-reduction goals to incorporate necessary changes (e.g., design, land use mix) to ensure they support those goals. Action LU-A3.1 Evaluate financial strategies and tools, such as Enhanced Infrastructure Financing Districts, to attract housing to employment areas and create new employment centers near residential areas. Policy LU-P4.1 Embrace the principles of a circular economy as they relate to development and encourage all projects to utilize ecologically sustainable practices and materials. Page 483Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme A -53 Action LU-A4.1 Amend the County Ordinance Code to include requirements for Low Impact Development, use of low-carbon concrete, water and energy conservation, reclaimed water, renewable energy use, green building, and other measures that reduce the environmental impacts of development, based on the best available science. Policy LU-P7.4 Require new residential development to be planned, designed, and constructed in a way that promotes health, minimizes hazard exposure for future residents, and mitigates potential adverse effects on natural resources and the environment. Policy LU-P7.5 Require new residential projects to provide convenient access/connections to public transit, local destinations, and multi-use trails whenever possible. Policy LU-P8.2 Support development of neighborhood-serving commercial services in and adjacent to residential areas where they can be accessed easily using multiple modes of transportation. Policy LU-P8.3 Encourage adaptive reuse of aging commercial buildings and sites. Action LU-A9.2 Monitor shifts in industrial markets resulting from the transition from fossil fuels and evaluate the County’s industrial land supply for opportunity zones or innovation districts that can accommodate industries such as advanced manufacturing, prefabricated housing production, biomedical/biotech, logistics and mobility hubs and transportation technology, clean technology, and maker spaces. Consider General Plan, zoning, and other regulatory changes that facilitate conversion of vacant or obsolete space to new uses as warranted. Action LU-A9.3 Amend the County Ordinance Code and/or procedures to streamline the permitting process for businesses and industries that provide living-wage jobs, invest in the community, hire from the local workforce, and embrace sustainability. TRANSPORTATION ELEMENT Policy TR-P1.2 Prioritize expansion of bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure to address the significant latent demand for these active transportation modes. Policy TR-P1.3 Ensure emerging transportation technologies and travel options, such as autonomous and ZEVs and transportation network companies, support the County’s goals for reducing emissions, adapting to climate change, improving public safety, and increasing equitable mobility. Policy TR-P1.4 Reduce single-occupant vehicle usage, at a minimum using strategies defined in the TDM Ordinance. Policy TR-P1.7 Leverage the County’s position as a major employer to demonstrate leadership in enhancing workforce commute options. Page 484Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 A -54 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme Policy TR-P1.8 Support improvement and expansion of passenger and commuter rail service countywide, with emphasis on transformative projects such as the Hercules Intermodal Transit Center and BART extensions in the I-80 corridor toward Crockett and SR 4 corridor toward Brentwood. Policy TR-P1.9 Encourage transit use by supporting expansion of first-mile/last-mile programs, including micromobility. Policy TR-P1.10 Enhance multimodal access to all transit stops, including local routes as well as passenger and commuter rail stations and ferry terminals, prioritizing stops which serve vulnerable and mobility-impaired populations. Policy TR-P1.11 Support transitioning all on-road vehicles, including personal vehicles and business, government, and public transit fleets, to electric power from renewable sources or other zero-emission fuels. Policy TR-P1.12 Continue to improve ZEV (including electric bicycle) charging/fueling infrastructure within new development and public rights-of-way, incorporating new technologies whenever possible. Policy TR-P1.13 Require designs for new parking facilities to incorporate ZEV charging/fueling infrastructure and maximize opportunities for adaptive reuse. Action TR-A1.4 Implement programs to encourage transit use, bicycling, walking, telecommuting, and use of alternative vehicle fuels by County employees. Action TR-A1.5 Conduct a survey of County offices and facilities to identify gaps in the alternative transportation network and pursue funding for projects that will fill those gaps and improve the availability of alternative transportation for County employees. Action TR-A1.6 Partner with transit agencies and CCTA to develop “Safe Routes to Transit” guidance that could be applied in new development areas and existing neighborhoods. Action TR-A1.7 Partner with transit providers, cities, and CCTA to develop a countywide transit stop program that takes a holistic approach to transit stop planning and construction. Push for the program to address right-of-way adequacy (i.e., sufficient space for bus pullouts and amenities), amenities (e.g., shelters, seating), and improvements around stops to increase accessibility (e.g., curb ramps, sidewalk widening). Action TR-A1.11 Coordinate with CCTA and other local and regional agencies to implement the Contra Costa Electric Vehicle Readiness Blueprint and related policies and apply best practices in ZEV charging/fueling infrastructure requirements. Action TR-A1.12 Update the County Ordinance Code as necessary to support advances in ZEV charging/fueling infrastructure, including for medium- and heavy-duty vehicles. Action TR-A2.2 Identify and address neighborhood-specific issues and needs in Impacted Communities, prioritizing installation of sidewalks, enhanced crosswalks, street lighting, street trees, bicycling infrastructure, transit stop amenities, traffic calming, and other safety and comfort Page 485Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme A -55 improvements, especially in residential areas and near schools, libraries, and recreational facilities. Explore innovative methods to ensure these facilities are maintained. Engage school districts, neighborhood groups, and the local Safe Routes to School Program in implementing this action. Policy TR-P3.2 Coordinate planning, construction, and maintenance of streets, transit infrastructure, non-motorized rights-of-way and associated facilities, the countywide bicycle network, and Pedestrian Priority Areas with neighboring jurisdictions and CCTA. Policy TR-P3.3 Partner with cities, the San Francisco Bay Area Water Emergency Transportation Authority (WETA), and other involved agencies to plan and implement ferry service that benefits unincorporated county residents. Action TR-A3.1 Coordinate with neighboring jurisdictions, CCTA, and the Regional Transportation Planning Committees to plan, design, and implement Complete Streets concepts on Routes of Regional Significance. Policy TR-P4.1 Plan, design, and maintain improvement projects involving County roadways in accordance with the County’s adopted Complete Streets Policy, other applicable policies (e.g., Vision Zero and other safety initiatives), planning documents such as the County Active Transportation Plan and CCTA Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan, and best practices (e.g., National Association of City Transportation Officials guidance). Policy TR-P4.2 Require transportation infrastructure serving new development to be designed using best practices, contemplating existing and planned land uses, roadways, bicycle and pedestrian facilities, transit facilities, and pathways of adjoining areas, and use available public and semi-public rights-of-way where feasible. Policy TR-P4.3 Create connections between neighborhoods in unincorporated areas and adjacent jurisdictions to improve multi-modal access to local destinations, such as schools, parks, shopping, health services, and workplaces. Policy TR-P4.6 Enhance streetscapes in nonresidential areas, making them more pedestrian-friendly by reducing off-street parking and setback requirements and augmenting traffic-calming measures. Policy TR-P4.7 Encourage walkability by streamlining implementation of traffic-calming measures through the Neighborhood Traffic Management Program. Policy TR-P5.1 Plan, design, and construct facilities for walking, bicycling, and rolling to serve people of all ages, abilities, and income levels, including children, seniors, families, and people with limited mobility. Policy TR-P5.7 Encourage walking, bicycling, and micromobility as the travel modes of choice for short to medium-length trips, such as trips to schools, parks, transit stops, local shopping areas, and neighborhood services. Page 486Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 A -56 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme Policy TR-P5.8 Partner with neighboring jurisdictions, transit agencies, community members, and business organizations to plan and construct sustainable streets in business and commercial areas. Consider forming community facilities districts or business improvement districts to help fund and maintain improvements. Policy TR-P5.9 Support micromobility options such as bike-, e-bike-, and e-scooter-share. Policy TR-P5.10 Require generous parking for bicycles and other mobility devices at key destinations, such as shopping centers, schools, workplaces, transit stations, and multiple-family housing. Action TR-A5.1 Partner with CCTA and neighboring jurisdictions to build out the countywide bicycle and pedestrian network, prioritizing completion of the Low-Stress Countywide Bicycle Network and pedestrian safety improvement projects in the County’s Pedestrian Priority Areas, as described in the Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan. Action TR-A5.2 Construct innovative bicycle and pedestrian facilities, including Class IV separated bikeways, bicycle superhighways, and other low- stress facility types, as described in the Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan and in contemporary transportation planning and engineering guidance. Use green infrastructure and landscaping to separate vehicular lanes from bicycle and pedestrian facilities when appropriate. CONSERVATION, OPEN SPACE, AND WORKING LANDS ELEMENT Policy COS-P1.1 Support efforts by public agencies and nonprofit organizations to acquire and permanently protect open space areas containing important ecological or scenic resources and areas that connect protected lands to form a cohesive system of open space. Plan infrastructure to avoid interfering with such acquisitions whenever possible. Policy COS-P1.2 Pursue opportunities for permanent open space dedication for habitat, scenic, or passive recreation benefits as part of future development approvals and major capital improvement projects. Policy COS-P1.3 Discourage conversion of land designated Resource Conservation or Parks and Recreation to urban uses. If such conversion occurs, require mitigation through permanent protection of other open space or park lands for habitat, scenic, or recreation benefits at a ratio to be determined based on the biological, scenic, or recreational value of the land, but not less than 3:1. Policy COS-P1.4 Require new projects adjacent to protected open space areas, such as EBRPD lands, to establish buffers on their properties as necessary to minimize conflicts and protect the open space. If conflicts arise between protected open spaces and other uses, prioritize maintaining the viability of the open space functions. Policy COS-P2.9 Coordinate with Byron-Bethany Irrigation District and East Contra Costa Irrigation District to facilitate water conservation, efficient use of agricultural irrigation water, and implementation of emerging water reuse technologies and practices. Page 487Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme A -57 Policy COS-P2.10 Support soil conservation and restoration programs. Encourage agricultural landowners to work with agencies such as the USDA’s NRCS and Contra Costa RCD to reduce erosion and soil loss. Policy COS-P2.11 Support efforts to protect, maintain, and improve soil health as a carbon sequestration tool. Policy COS-P2.12 Partner with the agricultural community and University of California Cooperative Extension to support regenerative agriculture practices that maintain agricultural viability. Policy COS-P2.13 Encourage IPM practices that reduce the use of agricultural pesticides and minimize pesticide drift, and discourage farming practices that may expose residents, water resources, and the environment to fine particulates and harmful chemicals. Action COS-A2.4 Amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to include development standards, and possibly adopt accompanying design guidelines, for urban land uses that interface with agricultural uses, addressing, at minimum: (a) Setbacks on urban properties to provide a buffer for agricultural uses. (b) Location and arrangement of buildings, structures, and uses on urban properties. (c) Lighting, fencing, screening, and appropriate landscaping/vegetation. Policy COS-P3.2 Support efforts to promote and market locally grown and value-added agricultural products. Policy COS-P3.6 Support the RCD in carrying out its mission to assist farmers and ranchers through programs that conserve natural resources and build a strong farming community. Policy COS-P3.7 Support rural property owners who apply to the Contra Costa LAFCO to detach agricultural land outside the Urban Limit Line (ULL) from special districts that provide urban services. Policy COS-P3.8 Allow farmworker and farm family housing in agricultural areas to meet the needs of locally employed seasonal and permanent farmworkers. Action COS-A3.4 Work with the agricultural community and UCCE to promote education, training, information-sharing programs, and networking opportunities for farmers, ranchers, and agricultural agencies to increase agriculture’s resilience to climate change hazards. Action COS-A3.5 Coordinate with the Contra Costa RCD, USDA NRCS, UCCE, Contra Costa Mosquito and Vector Control District, County Department of Agriculture, Weights, and Measures, and County Environmental Health Division to support sustainable and resilient agricultural operations through vegetation and pest management programs, best management practices, technical assistance related to soil health, funding opportunities for efficient irrigation infrastructure, and information about alternative crop types that are drought-, heat- , and severe weather-resistant. Page 488Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 A -58 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme Policy COS-P4.1 Maintain ecologically significant resource areas in their natural state to the greatest extent possible. Limit development in and near these areas to compatible low-intensity uses with adequate provisions to protect sensitive resources, including setbacks around resource areas. Prohibit projects that would lead to fragmentation of ecologically significant resource areas. Policy COS-P4.2 Support land conservation and restoration consistent with the HCP/NCCP and discourage development in areas where such conservation is planned, as shown on Figure COS-3. Support actions to preserve land and resources within PCAs mapped by ABAG, as shown on Figure COS-4. Policy COS-P4.4 Protect habitat and wildlife migration corridors, and support projects that enhance these areas. Policy COS-P4.5 Discourage the use of fencing that poses risks to wildlife. Policy COS-P4.8 Require majority use of native plant species in landscaping for new developments, and require construction practices that avoid spread of invasive plant species by minimizing surface disturbance; seeding and mulching disturbed areas with certified weed-free native mixes; disinfecting/ decontaminating equipment; and using native, noninvasive, drought-resistant species in erosion-control plantings. Action COS-A4.2 Amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to include development standards, and possibly adopt accompanying design guidelines, for urban land uses that interface with ecologically significant resource areas and other protected conservation lands, addressing, at minimum: (a) Setbacks on urban properties to provide a buffer for resource areas. (b) Clustering of development to maximize ecological and conservation benefits. (c) Lighting, fencing, screening, and landscaping/vegetation that support, and do not interfere with, wildlife migration and other conservation purposes. Policy COS-P5.1 Support protection, restoration, and enhancement of creeks, wetlands, marshes, sloughs, and tidelands, and emphasize the role of these features in climate change resilience, air and water quality, and wildlife habitat. Policy COS-P5.2 Require new public infrastructure and private development projects to preserve, and whenever possible enhance, natural watercourses, floodplains, and riparian habitat. Policy COS-P5.3 Require avoidance, minimization, and/or compensatory mitigation for development that would impact a wetland, wetland species, or adjacent upland habitat areas. Where feasible, compensation shall be in-kind (i.e., the same type of habitat), provided on-site, and based on a ratio that provides a margin of safety reflecting the expected degree of success and accounting for the relative functions and values of the lost and created wetlands. 037 Page 489Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #037 Posted by Derene Allen on 03/12/2024 at 7:16pm [Comment ID: 46] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 Prohibit installation of artificial turf in all new building/landscaping due to its negative impact on increasing surface temperatures, providing no natural habitat and leaching microplastics and other toxins into the ground water which ultimately finds its way to streams, rivers and other natural bodies of water thereby harming natural wildlife and ultimately finding its way into the human food chain. I'm not sure where else this comment should go, however artificial turf in all its uses should be prohibited for the above mentioned reasons. Milbrae (San Mateo County) and San Marino (LA County) have banned it. Page 490Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme A -59 Policy COS-P5.4 Require new buildings and structures on private property be set back at least 75 feet from the edge of any wetland area, unless a peer-reviewed, site-specific evaluation indicates that a different setback is appropriate for protecting the wetland and adjacent upland habitat areas. Allow encroachment into a required wetland setback area only when a parcel would otherwise be rendered unbuildable or impacts have been adequately mitigated. Policy COS-P5.6 Require increased setbacks for animal-handling uses whenever necessary to protect natural watercourses, riparian habitat, or erosion- prone soils. Setback increases can be applied to all aspects of the use, such as manure storage areas, and are not limited to buildings and structures. Policy COS-P5.8 Prohibit direct runoff of pollutants and siltation into marsh, creek, and wetland areas from outfalls serving urban development. Action COS-A5.1 Inventory wetlands, floodplains, marshlands, and adjacent lands that could potentially support climate adaptation (e.g., through flood management, filtration, or other beneficial ecosystem services) and mitigation (e.g., carbon sequestration). Policy COS-P6.1 Preserve natural woodlands and significant trees, particularly mature native species. Policy COS-P6.2 Encourage planting and propagation of native trees throughout the county to enhance the natural landscape, provide shade, sustain wildlife, absorb stormwater, and sequester carbon. Policy COS-P6.3 Support protection of native trees, especially oaks, in foothill woodlands and agricultural areas by encouraging voluntary installation of fencing around individuals or clusters of trees to prevent grazing and promoting replanting of native species. Policy COS-P6.4 Encourage removal of invasive, non-native tree species, especially those known to pose threats to public safety. Policy COS-P6.5 Encourage revegetation of native species in areas that were previously converted for agriculture but are no longer in production. Action COS-A6.1 Update County Ordinance Code Chapter 816-6 – Tree Protection and Preservation, to enhance tree protections and strengthen mitigation requirements/restitution for tree removal. Action COS-A6.2 Develop an Oak Woodland Conservation Program that establishes special mitigation ratios for removal of oak trees, along with specific tree replacement and planting standards to ensure long-term growth and survival. Amend the County Ordinance Code as needed to implement the program. Policy COS-P7.1 Require new development to reduce potable water consumption through use of water-efficient devices and technology, drought- tolerant landscaping strategies, and recycled water, where available. Policy COS-P7.2 Partner with water and wastewater service providers, GSAs, irrigation districts, and private well owners to increase participation in water conservation programs countywide. 038 Page 491Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #038 Posted by Derene Allen on 03/12/2024 at 7:08pm [Comment ID: 45] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 Additional specificity is required to this Policy on updating the County Ordinance Code Chapter 816-6. Specificity such as: To protect urban tree canopy, both native and non-native tree species should be protected (given the current composition of the urban canopy, with many of the trees - if not the majority - being non-native). Trees of a specific size should be protected - those who would qualify as "middle aged" and "mature/old", to ensure there are large tree replacements when the "old" trees die. Under mitigation requirements, replanting should be both requested and enforced. This is essential to not allow continual tree canopy reduction, which only serves to contribute to increased warming and the negative effects thereof. Page 492Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 A -60 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme Policy COS-P7.5 Prohibit new development that would create or significantly aggravate groundwater overdraft conditions, land subsidence, or other “undesirable results,” as defined in Section 354.26 of the California Water Code. Policy COS-P7.6 Support multipurpose water storage options that incorporate water supply, flood control, surface and groundwater storage, groundwater management, and ecosystem components. Policy COS-P7.7 Require landscaping for new development to be drought-tolerant, filter and retain runoff, and support flood management and groundwater recharge. Policy COS-P7.8 Promote installation of drought-tolerant green infrastructure, including street trees, in landscaped public areas. Policy COS-P7.9 Support wastewater reclamation and reuse programs that maximize use of recycled water. Policy COS-P7.10 Support programs and activities conducted by community watershed groups and volunteers that increase public awareness and encourage stewardship of water resources. Action COS-A7.2 For areas that are not covered by an adopted GSP, amend the County Ordinance Code to include sustainability indicators, defined by the SGMA, as a guide for development to maintain and protect the quality and quantity of groundwater supplies within the county. Action COS-A7.3 Evaluate the feasibility and necessity of amending the County Ordinance Code to promote rainwater harvesting, installation of dual plumbing, and water reuse. Action COS-A7.4 Publish information on the DCD website about alternative sources of water for irrigation and other non-potable needs, such as greywater, rainwater, air conditioning condensation, and foundation drainage. Policy COS-P8.1 Protect public water supplies by denying applications for projects that would introduce significant new pollution sources in groundwater basins and watersheds feeding major reservoirs, and support efforts to acquire and permanently protect reservoir watersheds. Policy COS-P8.2 Coordinate with other agencies to control point and non-point sources of water pollution and maintain water quality standards. Policy COS-P8.3 Support development and implementation of a long-term, area-wide integrated vegetation management program to control invasive weeds in a way that reduces pesticide use and preserves water quality. Policy COS-P8.4 Require new development to retain natural vegetation and topography whenever feasible and require projects involving erosion- inducing activities to use best management practices to minimize erosion. Policy COS-P9.2 Support continued maintenance and improvement of Delta levees to protect water quality, ecosystems, agricultural land, and at-risk communities. Page 493Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme A -61 Policy COS-P9.4 Plan for land uses along shorelines that do not pose a threat to Bay or Delta resources, including water quality and shoreline and marshland habitats. Policy COS-P14.1 Implement Climate Action Plan strategies to improve energy efficiency and conservation, promote carbon-free energy sources, and reduce energy-related GHG emissions. Policy COS-P14.2 Partner with regional and State agencies (e.g., California Public Utilities Commission, California Energy Commission, and ABAG/MTC) to support energy efficiency and renewable energy planning efforts. Policy COS-P14.3 Support distributed electricity generation, including development of microgrids, renewable energy sources, storage capacity, and associated technologies. Encourage these throughout urban areas, and in nonurban areas when significant environmental impacts can be avoided or successfully mitigated. Policy COS-P14.5 Support development of energy recovery projects (e.g., methane recovery from landfills and wastewater treatment plants). Policy COS-P14.7 Encourage installation of battery storage systems in new and existing buildings, especially buildings with solar energy systems and buildings that provide essential community services. Policy COS-P14.8 Design and construct new County facilities to be zero net energy to the extent feasible. Policy COS-P14.9 Work with energy service providers and the Bay Area Regional Energy Network to encourage property owners to participate in weatherization, education, rate incentive, and other programs and measures to improve energy efficiency in existing buildings. Policy COS-P14.10 Require replacement and new water heaters and space heating and cooling to be electric if the building electric panel has sufficient capacity in accordance with Bay Area Air Quality Management District Regulation 9, Rule 4, and Regulation 9, Rule 6. Action COS-A14.1 Amend County Ordinance Code Chapter 88-14 – Oil and Gas Drilling and Production to: (a) Prohibit new and expanded oil and gas production wells in the following: i. Sensitive ecological areas, such as wetlands and habitat for rare, threatened, endangered, or special-status species. ii. Areas subject to 100-year flood hazards or sea-level rise, as shown in Figures HS-2 and HS-6 through HS-9. iii. Areas within 3,200 feet of sensitive receptors or urban land use designations unless project-specific exceptions are granted by the California Department of Conservation, Geologic Energy Management Division. (b) Restrict oil and gas drilling operations to agricultural zoning districts only. (c) Require a land use permit for all new and expanded oil and gas wells. Page 494Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 A -62 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme (d) Require a reclamation plan for oil and gas well sites that includes bonding for site clean-up. (e) Include performance standards related to water quality, air quality, odors, noise, and aesthetics. In parallel, study the feasibility of amending the County Ordinance Code to prohibit development of new oil and gas wells and phase out existing oil and gas well operations. Action COS-A14.3 Amend County Ordinance Code Chapter 88-3 – Wind Energy Conversion Systems to require that decommissioned wind farms be returned to a condition consistent with the natural environment in the area at the time of decommissioning, rather than a return to pre-project condition. The following issues must be specifically addressed: (a) Unnecessary and poorly constructed roads that are sources of erosion. (b) Remaining turbine foundations/footings and underground conduit. (c) Abandoned equipment yards, turbine components, and other debris. Action COS-A14.4 Consider adopting new or modified reach codes that exceed the California Building Standards Code to require the use of lower- carbon intensive energy sources, to achieve higher feasible levels of energy conservation and efficiency, and to achieve lower feasible levels of GHG emissions. Action COS-A14.5 Maintain, update, publicize, and enforce the County Ordinance Code Title 7 – Building Regulations amendment requiring new residential buildings, hotels, offices, and retail to be all-electric. Evaluate the feasibility of including other building types as appropriate. Action COS-A14.6 Create a County policy or program to facilitate making existing residential and nonresidential buildings more energy-efficient and powered by carbon-free energy. Action COS-A14.7 Create a detailed roadmap to convert existing homes and businesses to use low- or zero-carbon appliances. The roadmap should include steps to support converting buildings to rely on low- or zero-carbon energy using an equitable framework that minimizes the risk of displacement or significant disruptions to existing tenants. Action COS-A14.8 Evaluate options for incentivizing and requiring additions and alterations to be energy efficient and to achieve the lowest feasible levels of GHG emissions, including upgrades to the building electric panel as needed. Action COS-A14.9 Ensure County-led and supported retrofit programs incentivize and prioritize conversion of buildings built before 1980 and emphasize assistance to owners of properties that are home to very low-, low-, and moderate- income residents or located in Impacted Communities, as permitted by available funding. Action COS-A14.10 Support legislative efforts to establish a green bank able to equitably finance sustainability projects, including renewable energy, energy efficiency, and green infrastructure, for residential and commercial customers. Page 495Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme A -63 PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES ELEMENT Policy PFS-P1.2 Locate new County facilities that involve regular community access in places that are easily accessible by public transit, walking, and micromobility, to the greatest extent possible. Policy PFS-A2.3 Implement and maintain urban greening and green infrastructure, such as sustainable/green street projects, in Impacted Communities. Policy PFS-P4.1 Support the goal of regional self-sufficiency as part of new water system planning efforts, where all regions in the state are required to implement a variety of local water supply options and institute conservation and reuse programs to reduce reliance on exports from the Delta. Policy PFS-P4.2 Encourage water service providers to require separate service connections and meters for recycled water use or where large quantities of water are used for special purposes, such as landscape irrigation. Policy PFS-P5.6 When developing new or revised regional drainage and flood management plans, including plans to protect against sea-level rise, incorporate adequate setbacks and alternative drainage system improvements that provide aesthetic, recreational, and environmental benefits. Improvements should avoid structural modifications to watercourses and preserve riparian habitat and floodplains, and convert engineered drainage systems to more natural systems, when and where possible. In areas at risk of temporary or permanent inundation from sea-level rise, ensure that improvements can continue to provide adequate protection for the projected level of inundation by 2100 or the expected operational life of the project, whichever is later. Policy PFS-P5.7 Incorporate green infrastructure into new and retrofitted flood-control and streetscaping projects, including replacing existing asphalt and other hardscapes with green infrastructure, as feasible. Policy PFS-P5.8 Encourage developers of properties along transit corridors and in commercial areas to combine their private stormwater treatment facilities with green infrastructure on the adjoining street frontage. Policy PFS-A5.3 Develop watershed management plans incorporating best management practices that slow, spread, and sink water runoff to flatten the hydrograph (i.e., water flow over time) where erosion is a concern, while also enhancing wildlife habitat and recreation opportunities where feasible. Policy PFS-A5.4 Establish programs for development projects alongside natural watercourses that ensure regular maintenance of the waterway, including debris removal, erosion control, and conservation and restoration of native species. Policy PFS-P7.6 Encourage new technologies for organics processing consistent with SB 1383, the Short-Lived Climate Pollutants Reduction Strategy of 2016. Page 496Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 A -64 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme Policy PFS-P7.11 Require new landfills to be designed and operated so that upon decommissioning they can be repurposed for other uses, such as renewable energy facilities, recycling and organics recovery operations, outdoor recreation facilities, and open space. Policy PFS-P7.12 Require that new and expanded landfill operations significantly reduce GHG emissions to meet or exceed to the extent feasible State targets, and work toward carbon-neutral landfills. Policy PFS-P7.13 Extend the life of landfills by continually striving to: (a) Reduce the amount of solid waste generated. (b) Reuse and recycle as much solid waste as possible. (c) Utilize the energy and nutrient value of solid waste (i.e., waste-to-energy and composting). (d) Properly dispose of remaining solid waste. Policy PFS-P7.15 Ensure transfer stations provide adequate capacity to accommodate recovery of recyclables and organic materials and encourage organics processing. Policy PFS-A7.2 Streamline the permitting process for composting, organics processing, and repair/reuse facilities. Policy PFS-P8.7 Design recreational facilities to complement the natural features of the area, including topography and vegetation, whenever appropriate. HEALTH AND SAFETY ELEMENT Policy HS-P1.8 Require new or expanded commercial and industrial projects exceeding 25,000 square feet of gross floor area to be near zero- emissions (NZE) operations, including the facilities themselves and the associated fleets. Require all necessary measures, such as the following, to achieve NZE: (a) Reduce on-site energy consumption and increase on-site energy generation and energy storage. (b) Provide adequate on-site ZE vehicle-capable parking for all anticipated truck traffic to prevent idling and off-site queuing. (c) Provide electrified loading docks with receptacles allowing plug-in of refrigerated trailers. (d) Use heavy-duty trucks that are model year 2014 or later and expedite a transition to ZE trucks by establishing a clear timeline for electrification of trucks as they become commercially available. Ensure contracts with motor carriers include air quality incentives or requirements, such as providing incentives to fleets that meet United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) SmartWay standards or requiring use of ZE or NZE trucks. Page 497Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme A -65 (e) Use a “clean fleet” of delivery vehicles as they become commercially available, but no later than 2025. (f) Use ZE yard equipment, such as forklifts, pallet trucks and jacks, and stackers. (g) Implement practices to control and remove fugitive dust and other contaminants from paved areas. (h) Uses with fewer than five vehicles domiciled on-site are exempt from this policy. Policy HS-A1.5 Adopt an ordinance at least as stringent as the State’s maximum idling law, and coordinate with CARB and law enforcement to achieve compliance. Policy HS-P2.2 Increase the tree canopy on public property, especially in Impacted Communities and areas with a high heat index, by prioritizing funding for new street tree planting and maintenance. Policy HS-P2.3 Support protection, restoration, and enhancement of natural landscapes in and near Impacted Communities for their role in improving air quality and community health. Action HS-A2.1 Partner with community members and regulatory agencies to prepare a community-scale plan for reducing and mitigating air pollutant emissions and industrial hazards, such as pipeline risks, accidents, potential water or soil contamination, and impacts to sensitive ecological resources for each Impacted Community, or group of Impacted Communities, as appropriate. Require future projects to demonstrate consistency with those plans. Action HS-A2.5 Prepare a tree master plan for the county that emphasizes planting of low-maintenance native tree species and includes quantified goals and tracking methods, including mapping the tree canopy, and prioritizes planting in Impacted Communities and along safe routes to schools. Policy HS-P3.1 Prioritize implementation of the Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan to reduce GHG emissions from community-wide sources and adapt to changing climate conditions. Policy HS-P3.2 Facilitate carbon-neutral development projects and communities that support a circular economy, net-zero-emission modes of transportation, reliable and renewable energy resources, energy-efficient buildings, zero waste, water efficiency and conservation, green infrastructure, soil conservation, and a system of natural and working lands that support carbon sequestration and climate resilience. Policy HS-P3.3 Require new development projects using the Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan to streamline their environmental review of GHG emissions, as permitted by CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5, to demonstrate consistency with the Climate Action Plan and incorporate applicable GHG reduction and climate change adaptation measures. Action HS-A3.1 Update the Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan as needed to maintain consistency with CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5(b), other State and regional guidance, and best practices. Future updates must include: Page 498Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 A -66 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme (a) Inventories of GHG emissions in the unincorporated county. (b) GHG reduction targets for 2030 and 2045 at a minimum. (c) Forecasts of GHG emissions for the unincorporated county consistent with growth assumptions of this General Plan. (d) GHG reduction measures and strategies with quantifiable outcomes. (e) Climate adaptation and resilience strategies to ensure the county’s communities can respond to changing climate conditions. (f) An implementation and monitoring program to track the County’s progress toward achievement of the GHG-reduction targets. (g) A community and stakeholder engagement program for Climate Action Plan preparation and implementation. Action HS-A3.2 Study the feasibility of establishing a low-carbon concrete requirement for all new construction and retrofit activities and consider additional strategies to reduce embedded carbon in construction materials. The intent is to determine what the County can and should do to support or exceed State requirements for net-zero emissions for cement use by 2045. Action HS-A3.3 Regularly review and revise the County’s purchasing and contracting programs as necessary to ensure consistency with the County's sustainability and GHG reduction goals. Policy HS-P4.2 Address the effects of climate change, particularly increased frequency and intensity of hazards, during review of new development applications. Policy HS-P4.6 In hazard-prone areas, such as slopes exceeding 15 percent, mapped floodplains, High and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones, and Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zones, allow for decreased residential density, including below the minimum density requirement for the applicable land use designation, as the severity of risk increases. Action HS-A4.1 Update the capital project planning and budgeting processes to account for anticipated effects of climate change hazards on County capital investments, including buildings and infrastructure, by integrating either the Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment or the best-available climate science data related to impacts, risks, sensitivities, adaptive capacities, and vulnerabilities. Policy HS-P5.6 Prohibit construction of critical infrastructure in areas subject to flooding or sea-level rise unless no feasible alternative exists. Action HS-A5.2 Establish countywide protection priorities for vulnerable communities and their populations identified to be at high risk of displacement from future flooding and sea-level rise in the Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment or the best-available climate science data and use regional funding mechanisms to plan and implement protection measures in these locations or for these populations. Page 499Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme A -67 Policy HS-P6.1 Require new development to locate habitable areas of buildings above the highest water level expected, based on Figures HS-6 through HS-9, accounting for sea-level rise and other changes in flood conditions, or construct natural and nature-based features, or a levee if necessary, adequately designed to protect the project for its expected life. Policy HS-P6.2 Support tidal wetland restoration projects in a manner consistent with community needs of flood-risk reduction, habitat and biodiversity conservation, and water quality protection. Policy HS-P6.3 Require new industrial development in areas subject to sea-level rise, emergent groundwater flooding, or tsunami inundation to provide plans for prevention and remediation of any contaminant releases induced by these hazards, along with bonds that guarantee remediation plans are implemented. Remediation should meet standards that protect people and the environment in the event of future permanent inundation. Policy HS-P6.4 Work with transportation agencies and infrastructure owners, such as railroads, to increase the resilience of transportation networks against sea-level rise and increases in flooding intensity, including emergent groundwater flooding. Action HS-A6.2 Adopt a Sea-Level Rise Overlay Zone with associated land use regulations for site planning and minimum construction elevations that reflects sea-level rise data under at least a medium-high risk aversion scenario by 2100. Refer to BCDC policy guidance when developing this overlay zone. Action HS-A6.3 Coordinate with BCDC, cities, and other agencies, organizations, and stakeholders to prepare and adopt a community-driven countywide sea-level rise adaptation plan addressing increased flooding and sea-level rise that provides unique adaptation options for the entire county shoreline and identifies funding mechanisms for implementation. Use Figures HS-6 through HS-9 or the best- available climate science data to identify where sea-level rise hazards are likely to occur and lead efforts to: (a) Maximize awareness and disclosure to property owners and the public. (b) Assess and address impacts to future development, including promoting the Adaptation Pathways model to respond to uncertainty and evolving conditions. (c) Plan for resiliency projects and adaptation measures to protect existing development and infrastructure, emphasizing nature- based solutions. (d) Partner with the Adapting to Rising Tides Program, Delta Stewardship Council, property owners, and community-based organizations to conduct a study of opportunities and costs for shifting development away from areas at risk from inundation. (e) Inform funding and financing decisions about short-term and long-term resiliency and adaptation projects. (f) Ensure that the disproportionate impacts on vulnerable populations and Impacted Communities are addressed. Page 500Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 A -68 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme Action HS-A6.4 Coordinate with the BCDC, Delta Stewardship Council, cities, and other involved agencies and stakeholders to create a joint-powers authority or public-private partnership to develop, fund, and implement relevant, regionally coordinated sea-level rise adaptation measures that leverage the results of Adapting to Rising Tides, Bay Adapt, Delta Adapts, and other studies and programs. Action HS-A6.5 Partner with cities and CCTA to develop and fund a countywide plan to increase the resiliency of roads that will be impacted by sea- level rise and tsunamis to ensure emergency responders can get to those in need and that community members, including those that rely on public transit, can continue to reach services. Action HS-A7.2 Support local fire protection agencies with efforts to seek funding for development and implementation of a continuous vegetation management program in fire hazard severity zones and WUI areas. Action HS-A7.4 Following a large fire, evaluate the feasibility and resilience of redevelopment, and consider changes to building or development standards to improve resilience. Policy HS-P8.2 Work with energy service providers to promote programs encouraging reduced energy use during extreme heat events. Policy HS-P8.3 Require new commercial parking lots with 50 or more spaces to mitigate heat gain through installation of shade trees, solar arrays, or other emerging cooling technologies. Prioritize the use of solar arrays where feasible and appropriate. Policy HS-A8.1 Amend County Ordinance Code Chapter 82-16 – Off-Street Parking to achieve consistency with Policy HS-P8.3. Policy HS-P9.3 Require new industrial development to reduce generation and disposal of hazardous materials to the maximum extent feasible by (listed in order of importance): (a) Implementing operational source reduction strategies and replacing hazardous materials with less hazardous materials. (b) Reducing generation of those wastes not amenable to source reduction or recycling. (c) Recovering and recycling the remaining waste for reuse. (d) Properly disposing of hazardous wastes and residuals generated from treatment of hazardous waste. Policy HS-P9.4 Support development of alternative hazardous waste management technologies and methodologies that reduce the relative risk to human health and the environment. Policy HS-P9.5 Require facilities that manage hazardous materials or hazardous waste in stationary or fixed storage tanks and that are in areas at risk of inundation from sea-level rise and flooding to conduct sea-level rise studies to address the risk of hazardous materials release from rising water levels, including rising groundwater. Require these facilities to incorporate best management practices to reduce the risk of release. Page 501Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme A -69 Policy HS-P9.14 Encourage and facilitate establishment of adequate sites for collection of household hazardous waste (HHW), unused pharmaceuticals, and universal wastes, along with provisions for residents who are physically unable to deliver materials to a collection site. Action HS-A9.2 Update the Oil Spill Contingency Plan to protect the Bay and Delta shoreline areas in the event of an oil or other hazardous materials spill. Action HS-A9.3 Provide information to county residents about less toxic alternatives to household products containing universal wastes and the safe handling, storage, and disposal of such products, including pharmaceuticals. Policy HS-P10.1 Coordinate with other agencies in efforts to remediate or treat contaminated surface water, groundwater, and soils in or affecting Impacted Communities. Policy HS-P12.7 Conduct a comprehensive energy resilience needs assessment for critical County facilities and pursue funding opportunities to meet identified needs. Policy HS-P14.10 Require new development to evaluate noise impacts on the natural environment, including impacts on wildlife, whenever appropriate. Page 502Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 A -70 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Summary of Policies and Actions by Theme This page intentionally left blank. Page 503Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix B -1 B. HEALTH AND SAFETY ELEMENT TECHNICAL APPENDIX This is a technical appendix to the Health and Safety Element (Element), a State-mandated General Plan Element that must identify and plan for potential natural and human-created hazards that could affect Contra Costa County’s residents, businesses, and services. This appendix provides additional technical details to augment the background information provided in the Health and Safety Element of the Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan. Figure references in this appendix are to the figures in the Health and Safety Element. The Health and Safety Element contains the bulk of the General Plan’s goals, policies, and actions to minimize hazardous situations and protect and improve public health in and around the county. Combined with the additional details provided in this technical appendix, it identifies the natural and human-caused hazards that affect existing and future development, describes present and expected future conditions, and sets policies and standards for improved public safety, including efforts to minimize harm to people, buildings, and infrastructure and reduce damage to local economic systems, community services, and ecosystems. Some degree of risk is inevitable because the potential for many disasters cannot be eliminated completely, and the ability to predict such disasters is limited. However, the Health and Safety Element aims to reduce this risk by: • Developing a framework for considering safety issues in the land use planning process. • Facilitating identification and mitigation of hazards for new development and strengthening existing codes, project review, and permitting processes. • Presenting policies directed at identifying and reducing hazards in existing development. • Strengthening preparedness planning and post-disaster reconstruction policies for earthquakes, floods, dam inundation, wildfires, and other hazards. • Identifying how natural and climate-related hazards are likely to increase in frequency and intensity in the future and providing policies to increase community resilience through preparedness and adaptation. The Health and Safety Element addresses the topic of public health and safety following State requirements in Section 65302(g) of the California Government Code. State law requires that the Health and Safety Element contain background information and policies to address multiple natural hazards, analyze the vulnerabilities from climate change and establish policies to improve climate change resilience, and assess residential areas with evacuation constraints. The public safety issues in Contra Costa County include emergency preparedness and response, flood and inundation hazards, seismic and geologic hazards, fire hazards, hazardous waste and materials, and other climate-related hazards. The Health and Safety Element identifies goals, policies, and actions for each of these hazards. Page 504Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 B -2 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER DOCUMENTS The Health and Safety Element does not exist in a vacuum but is instead one of several plans that address community public safety and related topics. These other plans include the Contra Costa County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP), Contra Costa County Emergency Operations Plan (EOP), and Contra Costa Countywide Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP). The Health and Safety Element should be consistent with these other plans to ensure that the County has a unified strategy to address public safety issues. The Health and Safety Element incorporates information, technical analyses, and policies from these other documents where appropriate to help support this consistency. The other Elements in the General Plan also provide policy guidance on related topics. The Health and Safety Element is consistent with and complementary to the other General Plan Elements. Contra Costa County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan In collaboration with local agencies and special districts, Contra Costa County prepared the most recent LHMP in accordance with the federal Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 and the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) LHMP guidance. Contra Costa County’s LHMP is a plan that assesses hazard vulnerabilities from natural and human-caused hazards, including risk to people and facilities, and identifies mitigation actions to reduce or eliminate hazard risks in the county, including in incorporated cities. Local governments are required to develop a hazard mitigation plan as a condition for receiving certain types of non-emergency disaster assistance. The LHMP and Health and Safety Element address similar issues, but the Health and Safety Element provides a higher-level framework and set of policies that pertain to the safety of the county, while the LHMP focuses on more specific mitigation actions, which are often short term, to enable jurisdictions to better protect lives, property, and natural systems. The current LHMP, certified by FEMA, is incorporated into the Health and Safety Element by reference, as permitted by California Government Code Section 65302.6. Contra Costa County Emergency Operations Plan The EOP describes the planned response to extraordinary emergency situations associated with natural disasters, technological (human-caused) emergencies, and war emergency operations in or affecting Contra Costa County. The EOP establishes an emergency management organization that will respond to any significant emergency or disaster affecting the county. The EOP is also the principal guide for the County and special districts who respond to and mitigate emergencies and disasters in the county. It is intended to facilitate multi-agency and multi-jurisdictional emergency operations and coordination, particularly between local governments in the operational area (i.e., county boundary), and addresses State and federal response upon request. Page 505Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix B -3 Contra Costa Countywide Community Wildfire Protection Plan In collaboration with the Contra Costa County Fire Chiefs Association, Hills Emergency Forum, and stakeholder committee members, the Diablo Fire Safe Council prepared and published the 2019 Contra Costa CWPP. The goal of the plan is to reduce hazards through increased information and education about wildfires, hazardous fuels reduction, actions to reduce structure ignitability, and other recommendations to assist emergency preparedness and fire-suppression efforts. The Contra Costa CWPP complements local agreements and existing plans for wildfire protection for a coordinated effort in determining appropriate fire management actions. CLIMATE CHANGE VULNERABILITY Changes to the global climate system are expected to affect future occurrences of natural hazards in and around Contra Costa County. Many hazards are projected to become more frequent and intense in coming years and decades, and in some cases, these trends have already begun. Key climate change considerations that affect Contra Costa County include increasing temperatures, changes in precipitation, and sea-level rise. Overall, precipitation levels are expected to increase slightly; however, there are likely to be more years of extreme precipitation events and droughts that last longer and are more severe. According to California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment,1 Contra Costa County can expect to experience the following climate-related hazard events: • Sea-level rise is a gradual process, taking place over years or decades. Along the Contra Costa County shoreline, sea levels are projected to rise approximately 24 inches by 2050 and 84 inches by 2100.2 However, it is possible that sea levels could rise faster than these projections.3 Rising sea levels can also cause the shoreline to flood more frequently and severely during storms or king tide events. Because ocean levels are higher during normal conditions due to sea-level rise, shoreline floods can reach further onto land. • Although Contra Costa County is likely to experience only a slight increase in overall annual precipitation levels from climate change, rainfall is expected to fall in fewer, more extreme precipitation events. Climate change is expected to also increase the frequency and severity of droughts that cause soil to dry out and condense. When precipitation does return, more water will run off the dry ground instead of being absorbed, potentially leading to more frequent flooding. Drought conditions will strain the water supplies derived from the Mokelumne River watershed and the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, causing water shortage contingency plans and demand reduction actions to go into effect more frequently. • Severe weather events, such as lightning, hail, heavy rainfall, and high winds, may become more frequent and intense. Heavy rainfall may also contribute to an increased risk of landslides in the hills of Contra Costa County. Although the connection between climate change and severe weather is not as well established as it is for other hazards, severe winds such as the Diablo winds, which tend to be most frequent during the fall and winter months, may coincide more frequently with wildfire conditions. What is vulnerability? Vulnerability is the degree to which natural, built, and human systems are susceptible to harm from exposure to stresses associated with environmental and social change and from the absence of a capacity to adapt. Source: California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services. 2020. California Adaptation Planning Guide. Page 506Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 B -4 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix • Warmer temperatures are projected to cause an increase in extreme heat events. An extreme heat day is defined in Contra Costa County as a day when the high temperature is on average at least 96.6°F, although it varies by specific location. Extreme heat days are expected to rise from a historical annual average of 4 days per year to 20 days per year by the middle of the century (2035 to 2064) and to an average of 37 days per year by the end of the century (2070 to 2099). In addition to the increases in extreme heat events, Contra Costa County is expected to see an increase in warmer nights, which are defined in Contra Costa County as nights when the minimum temperatures stay above 63.2°F. The number of warm nights is expected to rise from a historical annual average of 5 nights per year to 36 nights per year by the middle of the century (2035 to 2064) and to an average of 88 nights per year by the end of the century (2070 to 2099). • Wildfire risk in Contra Costa County is increasing, and hotter, drier weather resulting from climate change is expected to increase wildfires in the surrounding area and across the county. Continued dry conditions with above-normal temperatures through spring will leave fuel moisture levels lower than normal, increasing the potential for wildfire activity and an extended wildfire season. Across the region, more frequent and intense wildfires may also create poor air quality for Contra Costa County due to smoke. • Climate change can increase the rates of infection for various diseases because many of the animals that carry diseases are more active during warmer weather. For example, mosquitos are more active during warmer and rainier conditions, and therefore can more easily spread diseases such as West Nile virus and Zika virus. Warmer temperatures earlier in the spring and later in the winter can cause these animals to be active for longer periods, increasing the time that these diseases can be transmitted. • Due to its location along the Bay and Delta shorelines, floodplains, wildfire prone areas, and steep topography, Contra Costa County is in an area that can experience multiple, simultaneous natural hazards. These can also be called compounding hazards or cascading hazards. Compounding hazards could include a flood event that is followed by an earthquake, which are unrelated events that could compound to increase liquefaction in soils near floodplains or shorelines. Cascading hazards, on the other hand, occur one after the other. For example, an increase in extreme heat events and drought can dry out forests, leading to more fuel for wildfires, which can lead to faster moving and higher burning wildfires. The burn scar of a wildfire could then experience heavy rainfall, which could lead to landslides or debris flows. These hazards are discussed separately above, but when combined, they can cause more devastating consequences for county residents, visitors, and businesses. Vulnerability Assessment Under California law, the Health and Safety Element is required to include a vulnerability assessment that looks at how people, buildings, infrastructure, and other key community assets may be affected by climate change. The County conducted a Vulnerability Assessment to analyze its susceptibility to hazards, including those related to climate change, in accordance with the most recent available guidance in the California Adaptation Planning Guide published by the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (OES). The Vulnerability Assessment looks at how 13 different hazards—agricultural pests and diseases, air quality, coastal flooding, drought, extreme heat, human health hazards, flooding, fog, landslides, sea-level rise, seismic Page 507Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix B -5 hazards, severe storms, and wildfire—may affect 64 different population groups and community assets. Each population or asset received a score of V1 (minimal vulnerability) to V5 (severe vulnerability) for each hazard. Overall, populations in Contra Costa County tend to be most vulnerable to inland flooding, extreme heat and warm nights, wildfire and smoke, and human health hazards, which directly affect health outcomes. Climate change could affect the transportation network and associated economic activity by creating strain on transportation infrastructure, resulting in impacts to personal travel behavior and goods movement. Transportation infrastructure such as roadways, bridges, and railways are all potentially at increased risk due to inland and shoreline flooding, landslides, and severe weather events. Disruption of transportation infrastructure could significantly limit the movement of goods and services, economic vitality of the community, ability to evacuate during an emergency, and livelihood of many businesses. Countywide, energy delivery is also vulnerable to multiple hazards, including severe weather, such as high winds that can trigger public safety power shutoff (PSPS) events, extreme heat that reduces capacity and strains the system, and wildfires that damage the system, ultimately disrupting energy service. In particular, extreme heat can cause mechanical failure of grid equipment and heat damage to power lines, while also creating a high demand for electricity to power air conditioners, all of which places stress on the network and can lead to rolling blackouts. Climate change is also expected to affect parts of the county that are considered prone to both inland and shoreline flooding, mainly because of sea-level rise and stronger storm systems. As a result, agricultural land, homes, and businesses throughout the county will likely experience an increase in the frequency and magnitude of inland and shoreline flood events in future years. Ecosystems throughtout the county will likely shift and change due to rising temperatures and changes in precipitation patterns. Extreme temperatures and drought conditions can weaken woodlands and forests in the county, causing wildfires to spark more easily. Frequent wildfires in these ecosystems can cause specific composition to change as more fire-adapted species outcompete other species. Sea-level rise may cause a simlar phenonmenon in marshland habitat along the shorelines of the county. As sea levels rise, marshland habitat will likely be slowly inundated by elevated high tide levels, causing marshes to shift to mudflat habitat types. PUBLIC SAFETY ISSUES Among other topics, the Health and Safety Element addresses: • Air quality • Flood and inundation hazards (also addressed in the Public Facilities and Services Element) • Fire hazards (also addressed in the Public Facilities and Services Element) • Hazardous materials and waste • Seismic and geologic hazards • Emergency preparedness and response • Agriculture and ecosystem hazards (also addressed in the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element) • Additional climate-related hazards such as drought, extreme heat, and severe weather (also addressed in the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element and Public Facilities and Services Element) Page 508Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 B -6 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix This section provides details pertaining to probable locations each hazard or issue is likely to occur (per availability of data), past notable events in and around Contra Costa County, agencies responsible for providing protection from these public safety issues, and other background information required by California Government Code Section 65302(g)(4). Goals, policies, and actions related to these hazards are provided in the Health and Safety Element. The results of the Vulnerability Assessment are integrated into the discussions of hazards and other public safety issues. Air Quality Healthy air quality can be defined as the degree to which ambient air is pollution free. Although air pollution has been regulated for decades, California still has some of the worst air in the country. Air pollution can cause many serious health effects. A significant pollutant of concern in Contra Costa County is diesel particulate matter (DPM), a toxic air contaminant (TAC). TACs are air pollutants that can cause serious health effects from exposure at extremely low levels—a safe level of exposure may not even exist. DPM is particulate matter from diesel- fueled engines, such as those in on-road vehicles like diesel trucks, off-road construction vehicles, diesel electrical generators, and various pieces of stationary construction equipment. People exposed to DPM at sufficient concentrations and durations may have an increased chance of getting cancer or experiencing other serious health effects, including damage to the immune system and neurological, reproductive (e.g., reduced fertility), developmental, respiratory, and other health problems. Almost all diesel exhaust particles are 10 microns or less in diameter. Because of their extremely small size, these particles can be inhaled and eventually trapped in the bronchial and alveolar regions of the lungs. Long-term (chronic) inhalation of DPM is likely a lung cancer risk. Short-term (i.e., acute) exposure can cause irritation and inflammatory responses and may exacerbate existing allergies and asthma. As illustrated in Figure HS-1, air pollution impacts from exposure to elevated concentrations of DPM is greatest in North Richmond, Montalvin Manor, Bayview, Tara Hills, Rollingwood, East Richmond Heights, El Sobrante, Rodeo, Crockett, Mountain View, Vine Hill, Pacheco, Baypoint, Contra Costa Centre, Saranap, Parkmead, and Castle Hill. In western and central Contra Costa County where these communities are located, major sources of DPM include I-80, SR-4, and I-680; the Richmond Parkway, which is a truck traffic thoroughfare; a bulk cargo port on Richmond Harbor; the Burlington Northern Santa Fe rail yard in Richmond; and petrochemical and other industrial complexes, many of which are near the Port of Richmond on Richmond Harbor. There are also several facilities emitting DPM along the northern waterfront areas of the county, including along the San Pablo Bay shoreline adjacent to Rodeo and the Suisun Bay shoreline adjacent to Vine Hill, Clyde, and Bay Point. Air quality is a function of both the rate and location of pollutant emissions under the influence of meteorological conditions and topographic features. Atmospheric conditions such as wind speed, wind direction, and air temperature inversions interact with the physical features of the landscape to determine the movement and dispersal of air pollutant emissions and, consequently, their effect on air quality. Regardless, the impacts to local air quality from DPM will vary over time based on changes to the location and operation of emission sources as well as their overall contribution to emissions. As traffic increases in these areas, particularly along I-80, SR-4, I-680, and the Richmond Parkway, diesel emissions will increase. Operational increases in diesel-fueled engines, such as those in railyards and other industrial complexes, will also contribute to a greater concentration of DPM. Consequently, increases in DPM concentrations will lead to a greater health Page 509Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix B -7 risk for communities exposed to these emissions. Those most vulnerable from exposure to elevated concentrations of DPM include individuals with existing health conditions, children, and elderly populations. Flood and Inundation Hazards Flood and inundation hazards are addressed in the Public Facilities and Services Element, in addition to the Health and Safety Element. Floods are among the costliest natural disasters in terms of human hardship and economic loss nationwide, significantly threatening the health and life of community members and causing substantial damage to structures, landscapes, and utilities. Flooding can be extremely dangerous—even six inches of moving water with a strong current can sweep a person off their feet. Floodwaters can transport large objects downstream that can damage or even dislodge stationary structures, such as dam spillways. Saturated ground can lead to instability or collapse, and standing water can damage roads, building foundations, and electrical circuits. Floodwaters can also break utility lines and interrupt services. Other problems related to flooding and stormwater runoff include erosion, sedimentation, degradation of water quality, losses of environmental resources, and certain health hazards (e.g., mold growth). Flood events in Contra Costa County can occur from a river, creek, or canal overtopping its banks, a flash flood from intense precipitation in a targeted area, water pooling in low-lying areas and overwhelming drain systems, levee or dam failure, or waves and high water along coastal areas. A large portion of developed and undeveloped lands in the county are subject to flooding as a result of heavy seasonal rainfall, dam inundation, and canal or levee failure. A majority of these flood-prone lands are subject to inundation specifically from heavy rainfall and resulting stream overflows. Climate change will likely enlarge the area of the county that is at risk of flooding. Flood Hazards Areas at an elevated risk of flooding are divided into 100-, 200-, and 500-year flood zones. A 100-year floodplain has a 1 percent chance of experiencing a flood in any given year; a 200-year floodplain has a 0.5 percent chance of flooding in a given year; and a 500-year flood plain has a 0.2 percent chance of flooding in any given year. Figure HS-2 shows the 100- and 500-year floodplains in Contra Costa County. There are no 200-year flood zone maps for Contra Costa County, but the 500-year flood zone can be used as a proxy in low-lying portions of East County (i.e., areas mainly at risk of flooding from the Delta). The floodplains in Contra Costa County include the areas along the shorelines of the San Francisco Bay, San Pablo Bay, Carquinez Strait, Suisun Bay, San Joaquin River, and Old River; tracts in the eastern portion of the county; and areas adjacent to inland tributaries. Floodplains can change over time, including through land development and the resulting reduction of pervious land, construction of bridges or culverts, or through building levees or other impoundment structures that control the flow in the watercourse. The Contra Costa Flood Control and Water Conservation District (CCFCWCD) is the primary local flood control agency for the county. It constructs and maintains regional flood control facilities, including approximately 79 miles of channels, creeks, and other drainages and 30 detention basins and dams. CCFCWCD works to reduce flood risk, promote stormwater quality, and restore and enhance natural resources in an environmentally sensitive manner for communities throughout Contra Costa County. Page 510Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 B -8 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix Other agencies responsible for flood control in Contra Costa County include the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), the Federal Insurance Administration (FIA), and the California Department of Water Resources (DWR). Canal or Levee Failure Canals and levees in Contra Costa County are maintained by CCFCWCD, USACE, 13 special reclamation districts, and private landowners. These levees and drainage systems protect agricultural and rural areas, critical infrastructure like highways, and important environmental resources. Levee or canal bank failures or overtopping can cause sudden and severe flooding in surrounding areas. There are over 1,100 miles of earthen levees and revetments managed by CCFCWCD and reclamation districts in the county. Rudimentary levees along many smaller streams and creeks also protect small areas of land. Many levees are old and were built under a different set of flood management goals and standards. Using the best available data, DWR has identified areas in the Central Valley known as Levee Flood Protection Zones (LFPZ), which are places where flood waters would be three feet above base flood elevation or more if a levee were to fail. While there are no mapped LFPZs in Contra Costa County, FEMA has mapped areas in East County, such as Discovery Bay. that are at a reduced flood risk due to levees, as shown in Figure HS-2. Additionally, while not mapped, Bethel Island is below sea level and surrounded by levees. A levee failure would likely cause inundation of several feet throughout the island. Dam Failure A dam failure is an uncontrolled release of water from a reservoir through a dam because of structural failures or deficiencies in the dam, usually associated with intense rainfall or prolonged flooding, but it could also happen because of an earthquake, landslides, or equipment malfunction. Dam failures can range from minor to catastrophic and can potentially harm human life, property, ecosystems, and habitat downstream. Although dam failures are very rare, they are not unprecedented. Dam inundation zones are based on the highly unlikely scenario of a total catastrophic dam failure in a very short period of time. According to the USACE’s National Inventory of Dams, there are 21 dams of significant concern in Contra Costa County, and another 6 dams outside the county have inundation areas extending into the county. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), as required by federal law, has reviewed and approved comprehensive emergency action plans (EAP) for each of these dams. The EAPs minimize the threat to public safety and the response time to an impending or actual sudden release of water from dams. The EAPs are also designed to provide emergency notifications when floodwater releases present the potential for major flooding. As mandated by the National Dam Inspection Act, the USACE has the authority and responsibility for conducting inspections of all dams. The purpose of these inspections is to check the structural integrity of the dam and associated appurtenant structures, ensuring protection of human life and property. Periodic inspections disclose conditions that might disrupt operation or dam safety. Figure HS-4 illustrates areas in the county that would be affected by inundation if any of these dams failed. Page 511Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix B -9 Tsunamis Earthquakes can create tsunamis as a secondary hazard, and tsunamis have the potential to affect the shoreline areas of Contra Costa County. Tsunamis are typically caused by earthquakes generated in offshore subduction zones. The sudden movement displaces a large volume of water, creating a tsunami wave that can travel across the ocean at speeds up to 700 miles per hour. As the tsunami enters shallower water near coastal shorelines, it slows to about 20 to 30 miles per hour and the wave can increase to a height of 90 feet or more as it approaches the coastline and the water column compresses. Tsunamis can result in severe property damages and loss of life in affected areas near the coast. They can also disrupt emergency services and transportation routes. Tsunami waves can also diffract around land masses. Because tsunamis are not symmetrical, the waves may be much stronger in one direction than another, depending on the nature of the source and the surrounding geography. Earthquakes of magnitudes below 6.5 are very unlikely to trigger a tsunami so it is a particularly rare phenomenon. The narrow opening of the Golden Gate Strait also protects much of the inner Bay Area shoreline from severe tsunami impacts. Nonetheless, the County considers susceptibility to tsunami when reviewing development proposals. Figure HS-5 illustrates the areas that may be subject to inundation from tsunamis in Contra Costa County. The only areas of the county that are considered at risk from tsunamis are the shoreline areas along San Francisco Bay, San Pablo Bay, and a portion of the Carquinez Strait. Sieche A seiche is a wave that can occur in an enclosed or partially enclosed body of water, such as a reservoir, bay, or harbor. Seiches can be caused by a variety of factors, including changes in atmospheric pressure, wind, and seismic or geologic activity. When a seiche occurs, it can cause water levels to rise and fall rapidly, which poses a risk to boats, docks, and other structures in the affected area. Seiches can generate waves that can inundate areas around the affected water body, similar to a tsunami. Additionally, seiches occurring in a reservoir can cause overtopping of a dam and result in regional flooding. While seiches are a risk associated with earthquakes and tsunamis, it is unlikely that one would occur in the San Pablo or San Francisco Bays or in the reservoirs in Contra Costa County. Sea-Level Rise and Shoreline Flooding Sea-level rise is a gradual increase in the ocean’s surface height over years or decades. Sea-level rise is a direct result of climate change and affects coastal communities as well as those along the San Francisco Bay and into the Sacramento/San Joaquin Delta region. Sea-level rise has the potential to inundate homes, businesses, and infrastructure near the shorelines as well as cause erosion of coastal lands over time. Rising seas increase the risk of coastal flooding, storm surge inundation, coastal erosion and shoreline retreat, and wetland loss. The communities and infrastructure that line many coasts are already vulnerable to damage from storms, which will likely increase as the sea level continues to rise and inundate areas further inland. Finally, rising tides may increase groundwater levels, inundating contaminated soil and pushing toxins toward the surface. Given that some contaminated sites in Contra Costa County sit near the shoreline, rising groundwater may cause contaminated soils to leach into previously unaffected areas. Along the Contra Costa County shoreline, sea levels are projected to rise approximately 2 feet (24 inches) by 2050 and 7 feet (84 inches) by 2100. However, it is possible that sea levels could rise faster than these projections, which has happened historically. Projections for the expected depth of water that would inundate dry land in the years 2050 and 2100 in Page 512Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 B -10 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix Contra Costa County are shown in Figures HS-6 and HS-8, respectively. Land that is below sea level could be inundated by water deeper than the sea- level rise (e.g., 2 feet of sea-level rise could expose land 2 feet below sea level to 4 feet of water). Sea levels may increase enough by 2100 to permanently flood low-lying areas along the shorelines of the Carquinez Strait and Suisun Bay as well as large tracts of land in the eastern portion of the county adjacent to Old River. Rising sea levels can cause the shoreline to flood more frequently and severely during storms or king tide events. For example, a storm that has a 1 in 5 chance of occurring in a given year (known as a 5-year storm) can create a temporary increase in sea levels of approximately 24 inches.Because ocean levels are higher during normal conditions due to sea-level rise, shoreline floods can reach further onto land. This means that if sea levels rise by 24 inches during normal conditions, a 5-year storm event would create a temporary sea-level rise of around 48 inches. Shoreline flooding projections for the years 2050 and 2100 in Contra Costa County are shown in Figures HS-7 and HS-9, respectively. The San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission (BCDC) requires that shoreline protection projects, such as levees and seawalls, be designed to withstand the effects of projected sea-level rise and be integrated with adjacent shoreline protection. Past Occurrences Floods are a regular occurrence in California and cause the second-greatest number of disaster declarations in the state. Delta flooding has a long history in Contra Costa County and is a continuing hazard. Since construction of levees started in the early 1860s, every island in the Delta has been flooded at least once due to levee overtopping or failure. Approximately 110 levee failures have occurred since 1900, including about 12 since 1980. Since 1969, 10 flood events in Contra Costa County have been declared federal disasters. These 10 floods caused over $50 million in property damage. There are several major floods in the county’s history. In 1955, strong storms inundated almost 38,000 acres and caused about $3.3 million in damage. The Delta area suffered permanent damage to a sizeable amount of agricultural land. Concurrent strong onshore winds generated high waves that threatened many islands. In January and February 1969, high tides and adverse wave action in the Delta combined with large river inflow and rain-soaked levees to cause flooding of several islands; approximately 11,400 acres were flooded, totaling $9.2 million in flood damage. In mid-January 1980, severe rainstorms over central California precipitated high river outflow through the Delta that coincided with gale force winds and high tides, resulting in levee failure and flooding of two tracts, with approximately 9,600 acres under water. Continued high inflow to the Delta and wind-generated waves increased erosion on all Delta-area levees, necessitating temporary curtailment of boat traffic. In June 2004, Jones Tract in San Joaquin County near the border with Contra Costa County experienced a levee breech. In August 2009, a bulk carrier ship stuck a levee at Bradford Island north of Bethel Island, also causing a serious breach. More recently, communities in Contra Costa County report increased damage from king tide events, especially when paired with heavy rain, and community members are attributing these changes to sea-level rise. Page 513Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix B -11 Potential Changes to Flood Risk in Future Years Historically, extended heavy rains have resulted in floodwaters that exceed normal high-water boundaries and cause damage in Contra Costa County. Flooding has occurred within both the 100- and 500-year floodplains and in other localized areas. As land uses and climate conditions shift and as improvements are made to flood-control channels, the size of these flood zones is likely to change. Although climate change may not change average precipitation levels significantly, scientists expect that it will cause more events of extreme precipitation. That is, more years are likely to have particularly intense storm systems that drop enough precipitation over a short enough period to cause flooding. Because of this, floods are expected more often in Contra Costa County, and climate change may expand the parts of the county that are considered prone to flood. Climate change is also expected to increase the frequency and severity of droughts, which cause soil to dry out and harden. When precipitation does return, more water runs off the hardened surface than is absorbed into the ground, which can lead to floods. Tsunamis depend on a seismic event. Major earthquakes are rare, but they are a possibility in the region and could generate tsunamis under some circumstances. A more likely instance is a tsunami triggered by a distant earthquake that could still be large enough to cause damage in Contra Costa County. Sea levels have risen in San Francisco Bay and are expected to continue rising at an accelerated rate over the coming century. Sea-level rise will occur slowly over time and increase impacts of other coastal hazards, such as shoreline erosion and the potential impact of tsunamis. Community assets and infrastructure that border the shoreline are vulnerable to damage from storms, which will likely increase as the sea level continues to rise and inundate areas further inland. As sea levels rise, the area and number of people at risk because of flooding will also increase. The potential for a dam failure event affecting Contra Costa County will remain a risk in future years, although the likelihood of such events is expected to remain very low. Fire Hazards The combination of complex terrain, Mediterranean climate, and productive natural plant communities, along with ample natural ignition sources, has created conditions for extensive wildfires in and around Contra Costa County, making this a hazard of high concern. Historically, the fire season extended from early summer through late fall during the hottest, driest months of the year, but it is becoming a hazard that can occur year-round. Wildfire conditions arise from a combination of high temperatures, low- moisture content in the air and plant matter, an accumulation of vegetation, and high winds. They can be sparked by lightning, malfunctioning equipment, carelessness, and other causes There is also a risk of structural fires in Contra Costa County. Three types of fires are of concern to Contra Costa County: (1) wildfires, (2) wildland-urban interface fires, and (3) structural fires. Wildfires and Wildland-Urban Interface Fires Wildfires occur on mountains, hillsides, and grasslands. Fuel, weather, and topography are primary factors that affect how wildland fires spread. In Contra Costa County, grassland and woodland habitat provide highly flammable fuel that is conducive to wildfires. These plant species are capable of regeneration after a fire, making periodic wildfires a natural part of the ecology of these areas. The climate of Contra Costa County keeps the grass Page 514Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 B -12 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix dry and more readily combustible during fire season. Seasonal drought conditions exacerbate fire hazards. The wildfire potential for Contra Costa County is typically greatest when dry vegetation coexists with hot, dry winds, known as Diablo winds. Diablo winds come from the north and northeast, carrying extremely dry air at a high velocity, usually occurring in the San Francisco Bay Area. The name “Diablo wind” refers to the fact that the wind blows into the inner Bay Area from the direction of Mount Diablo in Contra Costa County. These hot, dry winds can quickly desiccate vegetation and other combustible materials and can push a fire down or up a slope at very high speeds. During these times, controlling a fire becomes far more difficult. The wildland-urban interface (WUI) is an area where buildings and infrastructure mix with areas of flammable wildland vegetation. Wildfires are often most dangerous when they burn into this region because most people and structures in wildfire-prone areas are in the WUI. The WUI can be subdivided into the intermix zone (where houses and wildland vegetation directly mingle), the interface zone (housing adjacent to wildland vegetation, but not mingled with it), and the influence zone (areas of wildfire-susceptible vegetation surrounding the others). The interface and intermix zones are typically the areas of highest risk. Increasing local and regional fire frequency can also create recurring air quality degradation events leading to respiratory health effects. Wildfire smoke consists of a mix of gases and fine particulate matter from burning vegetation and materials. The pollutant of most concern from wildfire smoke is fine particulate matter (PM2.5). PM2.5 from wildfire smoke is damaging to human health due to its ability to deeply penetrate lung tissue and affect the heart and circulatory system. Although wildfire smoke presents a health risk to everyone, sensitive groups may experience more severe acute and chronic symptoms from exposure to wildfire smoke, including children, older adults, people with chronic respiratory or cardiovascular disease, people experiencing low socioeconomic status, or people who spend substantial time outdoors, such as agricultural workers.. Structural Fires Contra Costa County is also at risk from structural fires. These fires occur in built-up environments, destroying buildings and other human-made structures. Structural fires are often due to faulty wiring or mechanical equipment, or human error, combined with combustible construction materials. Older buildings that lack modern fire safety features may face greater risk of damage from fires. Fire Hazard Zones The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) establishes Fire Hazard Severity Zones (FHSZ), designating moderate, high, or very high severity. Unincorporated areas are considered State Responsibility Areas (SRA). SRAs are areas where CAL FIRE has responsibility for fire protection. Local jurisdictions do not have financial responsibility for wildland fire protection in SRAs. The highest areas at risk for fires are in western Contra Costa County and in the foothills and mountainous watershed areas around Mount Diablo and Los Vaqueros. Grassland areas, especially in eastern Contra Costa County, also face wildfire risk. Figure HS-10 shows the FHSZs in Contra Costa County, and Figure HS-11 identifies the WUI. Water Pressure and Supply Insufficient water pressure and supply also contribute to wildfire danger. Most of the higher-risk wildfire areas in the county are not served by public water systems. Fire districts serving these areas are typically equipped with Page 515Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix B -13 tank trucks. Properties designated for residential use in areas without public water service are required to maintain sufficient on-site water storage, and new development must have sufficient water pressure for firefighting purposes. Fire Protection Fire protection service is addressed in the Public Facilities and Services Element. Fire protection in unincorporated Contra Costa County is provided by six individual fire protection districts: the Contra Costa Fire Protection District, San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, Moraga-Orinda Fire Protection District, Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District, Crockett- Carquinez Fire Protection District, and Kensington Fire Protection District. The incorporated cities of El Cerrito, Pinole, and Richmond provide fire protection services within their boundaries. Other service providers include CAL FIRE and the Federal Fire Department Concord-US Army. All agencies, including CAL FIRE, participate in mutual and automatic aid agreements to provide services outside of their bounds. Mutual aid agreements help ensure adequate response times in outlying areas. The County also has a contract with the State Office of Emergency Services. The jurisdictional boundaries for these fire protection districts are illustrated in Figure PFS-5 in the Public Facilities Element. Past Occurrences From 2010 to 2022, there were 24 wildfires in Contra Costa County, most burning over 100 acres. Some burned considerably more acreage, most notably the 2020 Santa Clara Unit (SCU) Complex Fire. These events are illustrated in Figure HS-12; fires over 100 acres in size are listed in Table C-1. TABLE C-1: FIRE SIZES AND DATES (100+ ACRES, 2010–2021) Date Fire Name Size in Acres June 11, 2010 Vista Fire 186 July 2, 2010 Bradford Fire 510 August 24-26, 2010 Curry Fire 375 December 1-2, 2011 Collier Fire 198 July 1, 2013 Kirker Fire 492 July 1, 2013 Concord Fire 274 September 8-14, 2013 Morgan Fire 3,111 June 24-25, 2015 Loma Fire 533 July 30, 2015 Vasco Fire 195 July 25-August 3, 2018 Marsh Fire 247 August 1-8, 2019 Marsh 3 Fire 340 August 1-8, 2019 Marsh 5 Fire 227 August 1-8, 2019 Marsh 6 Fire 174 August 17-October 1, 2020 Santa Clara Unit Complex Fire 396,824* July 11, 2021 Diablo Fire 128 June 23, 2022 Scenic Fire 120 September 5, 2022 Franklin Fire 125 Sources: Contra Costa 2018 LHMP; California Fire Incident Database. * The SCU Complex Fire burned 3,305 acres within the borders of Contra Costa County. The SCU Complex Fire, which started on August 17, 2020, is by far the largest fire to burn in Contra Costa County in recent years. The fire burned approximately 396,824 acres across Santa Clara, Alameda, Contra Costa, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, and Merced counties and lasted 44 days, with 3,305 of those acres in Contra Costa County. The fire consisted of three zones: the Deer Zone in Contra Costa County; the Canyon Zone in Alameda, Santa Clara, and parts of Stanislaus counties; and the Calaveras zone in parts of Stanislaus, San Joaquin, and Merced counties. The SCU Complex Fire was Page 516Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 B -14 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix one of several fire complexes burning in California during August and September 2020. The fire destroyed 222 structures, damaged 26 structures, and injured 6 people, although no fatalities were recorded. As of summer 2023, this fire was the fourth-largest wildfire in California’s modern history. Potential Changes to Fire Risk in Future Years Wildfire is expected to continue being a high-risk hazard in Contra Costa County. Smoke impacts from local and regional wildfires are also likely to continue being problematic. Changing climate conditions are expected to increase the fire risk in and around Contra Costa County. Warmer temperatures brought on by climate change can exacerbate drought conditions. Droughts can kill or dry out plants, creating more fuel for wildfires. Warmer temperatures are also expected to increase the number of pest outbreaks, such as the pine beetle, creating more dead trees and increasing the fuel load. Hot, dry spells may also increase disease and insect infestations, resulting in higher fuel loads. Higher wind speeds cause more erratic fire behavior, making fires harder to contain. Warmer temperatures are also expected to extend the wildfire season from earlier in the year to later than it has been historically. Wildfires later or earlier in the year are more likely during Diablo wind events, which cause wildfires to move more quickly and increase the likelihood of burning in the WUI areas. Hazardous Materials and Waste Types of Hazardous Materials Hazardous materials are materials that pose a significant risk to public safety or human or environmental health. Hazardous materials come from a variety of sources within the county. Some common categories are briefly discussed below to provide a framework for the policies and actions in the Health and Safety Element. Hazardous materials include toxic chemicals, flammable or corrosive materials, petroleum products, and unstable or dangerously reactive materials. They can be released through human error, malfunctioning or broken equipment, or as an indirect consequence of other emergencies (e.g., if a flood damages a hazardous material storage tank). Hazardous materials can also be released accidentally during transportation (e.g., from vehicle accidents). A release or spill of bulk hazardous materials could result in a fire, explosion, toxic cloud, or direct contamination of people, property, and the environment. The effects may involve a small site or many square miles. Health problems may be immediate, such as corrosive effects on skin and lungs, or gradual, such as development of cancer from a carcinogen. Damage to property could include immediate destruction by explosion or permanent contamination by a persistent hazardous material. Figure HS-14 shows the location of toxic release facilities and the toxic releases exposure rankings for census tracts in unincorporated Contra Costa County. As illustrated in Figure HS-14, exposure to toxic releases is greatest in Rodeo, Crockett, Mountain View, Vine Hill, Clyde, and Bay Point. Transportation of Hazardous and Toxic Materials Land use hazards associated with the transport of hazardous cargo exist in Contra Costa County. A number of major, interstate transportation routes pass through the county and a wide range of hazardous cargo is regularly transported along these routes by trucks, trains, and ships. The most vulnerable areas are considered freeway on-/off-ramps and interchanges. Types of hazardous cargo regularly transported out of, into, and through Contra Costa County include flammable liquids, corrosive materials, compressed and/or poisonous gases, explosives, and flammable solids. Page 517Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix B -15 Some potential exists for a highway, railway, or shipping mishap that could cause hazardous cargo to spill, contaminating surrounding areas. If flammable liquids were to ignite, they could quickly spread fire and poisonous fumes that could cause human casualties and/or property damage. Spilled liquids could also contaminate the Bay or nearby streams or drainage facilities, spreading the effects of an accident over a much larger area. Since 1970, 105 railway and 100 roadway hazardous materials incidents have occurred in Contra Costa County. In addition, hundreds of miles of pipelines that transport natural gas, crude oil, and refined petroleum products traverse Contra Costa County, including through residential and commercial areas. Such pipelines cross areas with active fault lines, landslide deposits, unstable slopes, and areas underlain by soft mud and peat. Most pipelines containing flammable or hazardous materials are underground. Each type of pipeline operates under various pressures depending on the size of the pipe, material, and what is necessary to move the material through the pipes. Despite all precautionary measures, pipelines are at risk of leaking into the environment or releasing flammable material. Agency Monitoring and Response Hazardous materials and waste in Contra Costa County are managed by the Contra Costa Hazardous Materials Programs (CCHMP), which is the Certified Unified Program Agency (CUPA) for all of Contra Costa County.. The CUPA consolidates, coordinates, and makes consistent the regulatory activities of several hazardous materials and hazardous waste programs, including Hazardous Materials Management, California Accidental Release Prevention, Hazardous Waste Management, Underground Storage Tanks, Aboveground Storage Tanks, and Emergency Response. Several State agencies monitor hazardous materials and waste facilities. Figure HS-15 shows the location of hazardous waste generators and the hazardous waste exposure rankings for census tracts in unincorporated Contra Costa County. As illustrated on the figure, exposure to hazardous waste generators is greatest in North Richmond, Montalvin Manor, Bayview, Tara Hills, Rollingwood, El Sobrante, Rodeo, Crockett, Port Costa, Mountain View, Vine Hill, Clyde, Pacheco, Bay Point, Parkmead, Castle Hill, Alamo, Byron, Winter Island, and the Agriculture Core east of Brentwood. Potential and known contamination sites are monitored and documented by the State Water Resources Control Board and the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC). Figure HS-16 shows the locations of cleanup sites and their ranking for census tracts in unincorporated Contra Costa County. As illustrated on the figure, exposure to cleanup sites is greatest in North Richmond, Montalvin Manor, Bayview, El Sobrante, Rodeo, Crockett, Port Costa, Vine Hill, Clyde, Bay Point, Contra Costa Centre, Knightsen, and Winter Island. If a hazardous material spill poses an imminent public health threat, the County will support local regulating agencies in notifying the public. The transport of hazardous materials, wastes, and explosives through the county is regulated by the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). I-80, I-580, I-680, SR-4, SR-24, SR-123, and SR-242 are open to vehicles carrying hazardous materials and wastes. Transporters of hazardous wastes are required to be certified by Caltrans, and manifests are required to track the hazardous material or waste during transport. The danger of hazardous materials and waste spills during transport does exist and can potentially increase as transportation of these materials increases on freeways and railways. The Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, CAL FIRE, Contra Costa County Emergency Services Division, and Contra Costa County Division of Environmental Health are responsible for hazardous materials accidents at Page 518Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 B -16 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix all locations in the county. Depending on location, Contra Costa County fire protection districts will also respond to hazardous materials accidents. Potential Changes to Hazardous Material Risk in Future Years Although a hazardous material accident can occur almost anywhere, certain regions are more vulnerable. The potential for an accident increases in regions near roadways or railways that are frequently used for transporting hazardous material as well as those with agricultural or industrial facilities that use, store, handle, or dispose of hazardous material. Given that 205 hazardous materials incidents have happened in transport through the county in the past 50 years, it is likely a hazardous materials incident will occur in Contra Costa County every year. However, according to Caltrans, most incidents are related to releases of fluids from the transporting vehicles themselves and not the cargo; therefore, the likelihood of a significant hazardous materials release in the county is more limited and difficult to predict. Climate change is expected to cause increases in the frequency and intensity of natural hazards, such as floods, landslides, and severe storms. This may lead to a greater risk of hazardous materials releases during these events. Seismic and Geologic Hazards Seismic hazards include earthquakes and hazardous events caused by them. Geologic hazards are other hazards involving land movements that are not linked to seismic activity and are capable of inflicting harm to people or property. Seismic Hazards Seismic activity occurs along boundaries in the earth’s crust, called faults. Pressure along the faults builds over time and is ultimately released, resulting in ground shaking. Earthquakes can also trigger other hazards, including surface rupture (cracks in the ground surface), liquefaction (causing loose soil to lose its strength), landslides, and subsidence (sinking of the ground surface). Earthquakes and other seismic hazards often damage or destroy property and public infrastructure, including utility lines, and falling objects or structures pose a risk of injury or death. Earthquake risk is very high in Contra Costa County due to the presence of several active faults in the region: the Calaveras (North Central) Fault, Concord-Green Valley Fault, Greenville Fault, Hayward Fault, Mount Diablo Fault, and San Andreas Fault. Figure HS-17 shows the locations of regional faults. • Calaveras (North Central) Fault: The Calaveras (North Central) Fault is a major branch of the San Andreas Fault. It extends 76 miles from the San Andreas Fault near Hollister to Danville at its northern end. The Calaveras (North Central) Fault is one of the most geologically active and complex faults in the Bay Area. According to the 2018 Contra Costa County LHMP, the probability of experiencing a magnitude 6.7 or greater earthquake along the Calaveras (North Central) Fault in the next 30 years (beginning from 2018) is 26 percent. • Concord-Green Valley Fault: The Concord-Green Valley Fault, so named because it is under the city of Concord, is connected to the main Green Valley Fault. The fault extends from Mount Diablo to the Carquinez Strait. It is under high stress and has a 16 percent probability of experiencing a magnitude 6.7 or greater earthquake in the next 30 years (beginning from 2018). Page 519Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix B -17 • Greenville Fault: The Greenville Fault extends from northwest of Livermore Valley along the Marsh Creek and Clayton faults toward Clayton Valley. • Hayward Fault: The Hayward Fault is a 45-mile-long fault that runs through some of the Bay Area’s most populated areas, including San Jose, Oakland, and Berkeley. The Hayward Fault is becoming a hazard priority throughout the Bay Area because of its increased chance for activity and its intersection with highly populated areas and critical infrastructure. The probability of experiencing a magnitude 6.7 or greater earthquake along the Hayward Fault in the next 30 years (beginning from 2018) is 33 percent. • Mount Diablo Fault: The Mount Diablo thrust fault runs from Walnut Creek to Livermore. It plays a role in the continued uplift of Mount Diablo. • San Andreas Fault: The San Andreas Fault is a major fault in the Bay Area region that has created devastating seismic activity, most notably in the 1906 San Francisco Earthquake and 1989 Loma Prieta Earthquake. This fault is approximately 15 miles to the west of the western edge of Contra Costa County. The probability of experiencing a magnitude 6.7 or greater earthquake along the San Andreas Fault by 2050 is 72 percent and a magnitude 7.5 or greater in that same timeframe is 20 percent.4 Figure HS-17 shows the Alquist-Priolo Fault Zones in the county and the areas susceptible to shaking from a hypothetical major earthquake. The Alquist-Priolo Fault Zones are areas around active faults that are known to cause surface rupture, meaning that the surface of the ground is “pulled apart” during seismic activity. Structures within these zones are subject to specific building codes and regulations to ensure they can withstand the effects of earthquakes, as surface rupture can seriously damage buildings and other structures built on top of the fault. Potential shaking in Figure HS-17 is rated from very strong shaking to violent shaking. As illustrated on the figure, the western portions of the county are most susceptible to violent shaking; the communities of North Richmond, Montalvin Manor, Bayview, Tara Hills, Rollingwood, El Sobrante, East Richmond Heights, Kensington, and Canyon are most vulnerable. Earthquakes have secondary effects and can cause urban fires, dam failures, tsunamis, sieches, and toxic chemical releases. A major earthquake along any fault could result in substantial casualties and damage from collapsed buildings; damaged roads, railroads, and bridges; fires; flooding; and other threats to life and property. Most of the loss of life and injuries from earthquakes are due to damage and collapse of buildings and structures. Building codes for new construction have generally been made more stringent following damaging earthquakes. However, in Contra Costa County, structures built prior to enactment of these improved building codes have generally not been upgraded to current standards and are vulnerable in earthquakes. In Contra Costa County, approximately 36,050 homes, or 57 percent of all housing in the unincorporated areas of county, were constructed prior to 1980.5 Page 520Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 B -18 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix Liquefaction In addition to the direct physical damage that can result from the motion of an earthquake, damage can result from liquefaction. Liquefaction occurs where water-logged soils near the ground surface lose compaction during strong ground motion, causing the soils to lose strength and behave as liquid. This can cause building foundations to shift and can result in significant structural damage. Soils susceptible to liquefaction are typically found in areas of low-lying current or former floodplains. Areas with high liquefaction potential are shown on Figure HS-18. Geologic Hazards Other geologic hazards also exist within the county. These hazards, which include landslides and erosion, depend on the geologic composition of the area. Landslides and rock falls may occur in sloped areas, especially areas with steep slopes, and usually in areas of loose and fragmented soil. Landslides, rockfalls, and debris flows can be very slow, while others occur very suddenly, often with disastrous results. There are predictable relationships between local geology and landslides, rockfalls, and debris flows. Slope stability is dependent on many factors and interrelationships, including rock type, pore water pressure, slope steepness, and natural or human-made undercutting. Landslides are usually triggered by other natural hazards like earthquakes, heavy rain, floods, or wildfires, so landslide frequency is often related to the frequency of these other hazards. The many types of landslides are categorized based on form and type of movement. They range from slow- moving rotational slumps and earth flows, which can distress structures over time but are less threatening to personal safety, to fast-moving rock avalanches and debris flows that are a serious threat to structures and have been responsible for most fatalities during landslide events. Many large landslides are complex and include a combination of more than one landslide type. In Contra Costa County, landslides typically occur during and after severe storms, so the potential for landslides largely coincides with the potential for sequential severe storms that saturate steep, vulnerable soils. Landslides and mudslides are a common occurrence and have caused damage to homes, public facilities, roads, parks, and sewer lines. Upland areas of the county are susceptible to landslides, land slips, mudflows, and debris flows. Triggered by an earthquake, heavy rainfall, or changes in ground conditions caused by development activity, these events can send large volumes of land cascading down hillsides, destroying property along the way. Figure HS-19 illustrates areas in Contra Costa County that are most susceptible to landslides. Contra Costa County is also susceptible to hazards related to erosion, the geological process in which earthen materials are worn away and transported by natural forces such as water or wind, causing the soil to deteriorate. Eroded topsoil can be transported into streams and other waterways. Water erosion is the removal of soil by water and transport of the eroded materials away from the point of removal. The severity of water erosion is influenced by slope, soil type, the soil’s capacity for water storage, nature of the underlying rock, vegetation cover, and rainfall intensity and duration. The impact of soil erosion on water quality can be significant, particularly with soil surface runoff. Highly erosive soils can damage roads, bridges, buildings, and other structures. Page 521Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix B -19 Past Occurrences Contra Costa County is in a region of high seismicity with numerous local faults. A number of significant earthquakes (i.e., more than magnitude 5.0) have occurred in and near Contra Costa County over the last 35 years. The South Napa earthquake on August 24, 2014, was the most recent notable earthquake near Contra Costa County. It was on the West Napa Fault, and its epicenter was near the Napa Valley Marina. With a recorded magnitude of 6.0, it was the largest in the Bay Area in about 25 years. The South Napa Earthquake caused extensive damage through ground shaking and surface cracking. This earthquake resulted in one death and approximately 200 injuries in the affected region. Ground shaking was felt in Contra Costa County. The magnitude 6.9 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake was on the San Andreas fault roughly 48 miles southwest of Contra Costa County and 10 miles northeast of Santa Cruz, near Mt. Loma Prieta in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Statewide, 18,306 houses were damaged and 963 were destroyed, and 2,575 businesses were damaged and 147 were destroyed. The most notable damage included the collapse of the elevated Cypress Structure section of I-880 in Oakland, the collapse of a section of roadbed on the Bay Bridge, and extensive damage to downtown Santa Cruz and San Francisco's Marina District. The Bay Bridge was unusable for a month. This earthquake resulted in an economic loss of approximately $10 billion; 63 people died, 3,757 were reported injured, and 12,053 were displaced. Though major earthquakes are rare in Contra Costa County, minor earthquakes occur more often. Small landslides are a common occurrence, generally on hillsides and in winter during high precipitation years. Potential Changes to Geologic and Seismic Risk in Future Years Earthquakes are likely to continue on an occasional basis and are likely to be small in most instances. Most are expected to cause no substantive damage and may not even be felt by most people. According to the California State Hazard Mitigation Plan, earthquakes large enough to cause moderate damage to structures—those of magnitude 5.5 or larger—occur three to four times a year statewide. Strong earthquakes of magnitude 6 to 6.9 strike an average of once every two to three years. Major earthquakes of magnitude 7 to 7.9 occur in California about once every 10 years. A major earthquake along any regional fault could result in substantial casualties and damage, although the greatest risk in Contra Costa County is from the Hayward-Rodger’s Creek Fault and the Concord-Green Valley Fault due to their location and high potential to cause a severe earthquake. A major earthquake on the Hayward Fault could damage or destroy primary evacuation routes and bridges, limiting access in and out of the community. Underground utility lines are also susceptible where they lack sufficient flexibility to accommodate the seismic ground motion. Earthquake Magnitude Scale Magnitude 3.0 or less: Usually not felt, but can be recorded by a seismograph. Magnitude 3.0 to 4.0: Minor earthquake felt by humans. Magnitude 4.0 to 5.0: Light earthquake with some property damage. Magnitude 5.0 to 6.0: Moderate earthquake with property damage. Magnitude 6.0 to 7.0: Strong earthquake with damage in the billions of dollars and loss of life. Magnitude 7.0 to 8.0: Great earthquake with severe economic impact and large loss of life. Magnitude 8.0 or greater: Largest recorded earthquakes, destruction over vast area, massive loss of life. Source: Gavin Hayes and David Wald, USGS, Earthquake Magnitude, Energy Release, and Shaking Intensity, https://www.usgs.gov/programs/earthquake- hazards/earthquake-magnitude-energy-release- and-shaking-intensity, accessed June 9, 2023.. Page 522Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 B -20 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix Geologic risks, such as small landslides, are common occurrences in Contra Costa County. With significant rainfall, additional slope failures are likely in the community’s landslide hazard areas, and minor to moderate landslides will likely continue to impact the area after heavy precipitation, as they have in the past. Heavy rainfall, which is expected to increase due to climate change, could cause an increase in the number of landslides or make landslides larger than in the past. Increased wildfire frequency can destabilize hillsides due to loss of vegetation and change in soil composition, which can contribute to greater runoff and erosion. The combination of a generally drier climate in the future, which will increase the chance of drought and wildfires, and the occasional extreme downpour, is likely to cause more mudslides and landslides. Impacts from these conditions would compound landslide potential for the most susceptible locations. Emergency Preparedness and Response Community Warning Systems The County uses the Contra Costa County Community Warning System (CWS) to notify residents and businesses within Contra Costa County that are impacted by, or are in danger of being impacted by, an emergency. The system provides basic information about incidents and what specific protective actions (e.g., shelter in place, lockdown, evacuate, or avoid the area) are necessary to protect life and health. The CWS is a partnership of the Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff, Contra Costa Health Services, other government agencies, industry, news media, and the non-profit Community Awareness and Emergency Response organization. CWS notifications may include: • Sirens in special safety zones • Emergency Alert System (EAS) alerts on television and radio (KCBS 740 AM) • Use of the Telephone Emergency Notification System • Cell phone alerts • National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather radios • Notices posted on Twitter and Facebook Alerts are distributed via voice, text, and email messages through the CWS Telephone Emergency Notification System. This computerized system makes telephone calls to the known telephone numbers in the vicinity of the hazard based on the incident-specific issues. Other systems include the EAS and the Emergency Digital Information System (EDIS). The EAS is a national public warning system commonly used by State and local authorities to deliver important emergency information to affected communities, such as weather and AMBER alerts. EAS participants include radio and television broadcasters, cable systems, satellite radio and television providers, and wireline video providers. FEMA, the Federal Communications System, and NOAA’s National Weather Service (NWS) work collaboratively to maintain the EAS and Wireless Emergency Alerts, which are the two main components of the national public warning system and enable authorities at all levels of government to send urgent emergency information to the public. The EDIS is a wireless emergency and disaster information service operated by the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (OES) and is an enhancement to the EAS. These systems are available in multiple languages. Page 523Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix B -21 Emergency Evacuation With advanced warning, evacuation can be effective in reducing injury and loss of life during a catastrophic event. Figure HS-20 shows the potential evacuation routes throughout the county, including highways and major surface streets, although the preferred evacuation routes in any individual evacuation order will depend on the emergency. Some parts of the county may face challenges evacuating, particularly those far from major roadways. Additionally, some areas have only one viable route of evacuation, which could become blocked or congested. Figure HS-21 shows residential parcels with evacuation constraints. All parcels identified as having evacuation constraints are at least a half mile from a major roadway and/or have access to only one emergency evacuation route. In most cases, it is not feasible to retrofit existing neighborhoods to eliminate physical evacuation constraints such as lack of evacuation routes or insufficient roadway capacity. The County will nonetheless strive to improve evacuation from these constrained areas. All evacuation routes in Contra Costa County face a potential disruption from flooding, earthquake, wildfire, landslide, or hazardous materials release. An emergency event may block roadways, damage the roadway surface, or collapse bridges and overpasses. In the event of widespread disruption to local evacuation routes, remaining evacuation routes may become congested, slowing down evacuation of a community or specific neighborhoods. This issue may be compounded if the county’s evacuation routes are also the evacuation routes for surrounding areas, and so potential disruptions may have regional effects. In preparation for wildfires and other disasters, the County uses Zonehaven Aware, which is a comprehensive evacuation support system of the Contra Costa County CWS. Zonehaven Aware provides the community with critical evacuation updates, resources, and information on active incidents. In the event of an emergency, the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office and Contra Costa County fire districts can issue evacuation warnings or evacuation orders for affected areas. The County’s website has an interactive evacuation map lookup tool that enables residents to find possible evacuation routes based on their address and respective zone. Disaster Preparedness Disaster preparedness refers to coordinated efforts to respond to both natural and human-caused disasters. In recent years, Contra Costa County has expanded its emergency preparedness planning. The County is required under State law to prepare and maintain a Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS) Multi-hazard Functional Plan. OES has extensive guidelines outlining the requirements of the Contra Costa County SEMS. Contra Costa County also participates in the California Disaster and Civil Defense Master Mutual-Aid Agreement, under which the State and local governments will work together to respond to emergencies. The Governor’s Office of Emergency Services Coastal Region (Mutual Aid Region II) serves the counties on the coast from Del Norte to Monterey and the counties surrounding San Francisco Bay. The County has its own Contra Costa County Emergency Operations Plan developed by the Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services in collaboration with emergency management partners (e.g., fire districts, law enforcement agencies,), and has prepared additional plans addressing earthquake response, disaster debris management, and airport emergencies. The County maintains an Emergency Operations Center, which is activated as needed to communicate with emergency management partners and coordinate responses to incidents. Page 524Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 B -22 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix Contra Costa County OES offers Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training to residents and members of the business community to increase disaster awareness and emergency response capability through its CERT Coalition. The primary goal of the Contra Costa CERT Coalition is to promote the development, coordination, and advancement of all CERT programs in Contra Costa County, progressively improving the quality of CERT programs across jurisdictions. The CERT program educates volunteers about disaster preparedness for the hazards that may impact their area and trains them in basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations. CERT offers consistent volunteer training and organization that professional responders can rely on during disaster situations, allowing them to focus on more complex tasks. Agriculture and Ecosystem Hazards Agriculture and ecosystem hazards are addressed in the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element, in addition to the Health and Safety Element. Agricultural Pests Agriculture in Contra Costa County encompasses approximately 34 percent of the land area. Thirteen crop categories exceeded $1 million in value in 2020. These categories in descending order are cattle and calves, sweet corn, tomatoes, grapes, cherries, miscellaneous vegetable crops, miscellaneous field crops, rangeland, alfalfa hay, irrigated pasture, apricots, walnuts, and apiary (bee) products. Crop values vary from year to year due to factors like production, weather, and market conditions. Eighteen of the farms in Contra Costa County used organic production methods in 2020. Contra Costa County is threatened by several insect pests that, under the right circumstances, can cause severe economic and environmental harm. Insects of concern to plants and crops include the Asian gypsy moth, rosy moth, nun moth, Siberian silk moth, Asian citrus psyllid, European grapevine moth, glassy-winged sharpshooter, Japanese beetle, Mediterranean fruit fly, melon fly, and Oriental fruit fly. Aquatic Invasive Species Introduction of nonnative species into county waters can cause significant and enduring economic and environmental impacts. One of the most widespread mechanisms of introductions is transport of ballast water in ships. Ballast water is taken on and released by a vessel during cargo loading and discharging operations to maintain the vessel’s trim and stability. Ships discharge ballast water that has been obtained from waters throughout the state, country, or world. This water might include nonnative organisms, untreated sewage, and other contaminants. Invasive species of concern in Contra Costa County include the New Zealand mud snail, zebra mussel, and quagga mussel. Once introduced, invasive species are likely to become a permanent part of an ecosystem and may flourish, creating environmental imbalances and wreaking economic havoc. The New Zealand mud snail can displace native aquatic insects that fish eat, but pass through the fish without being digested. Ultimately, this can result in reduced growth rates and lower populations of fish. Zebra and quagga mussels can also kill native freshwater mussels by either attaching to the shells of native species or by outcompeting them and other filter-feeding invertebrates for food. Page 525Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix B -23 Potential Changes to Agriculture and Ecosystems in Future Years As long as severe weather events continue to be a concern for Contra Costa County, the potential for ecosystem and agricultural losses remains. The primary causes of agricultural losses are severe weather events, such as droughts, freezes, and insect infestations. These factors can also contribute to significant ecosystem loss, as can wildfire events. Many pests and organisms that carry diseases are most active during warmer months. Given that temperatures are expected to get warmer earlier in the year and remain warmer until later in the year due to climate change, there will be a wider window for pests and diseases to be active. Climate change can also indirectly create a greater risk of agriculture and ecosystem pests and diseases. Many crop plants, trees, and livestock may be weakened by warmer temperatures and changes in precipitation. These weaker plants and animals may not be able to fend off infestations or infections as well as stronger plants or animals, causing pests and diseases to affect more of the agricultural area or ecosystem. These pests and diseases can inhibit plant and animal growth, damage plants and animals such that their products are less appealing and harder to sell, or lead to mortality. The rate of aquatic invasive species discoveries continues to increase. Due to the high number of incidents of invasive species in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, it is likely that future infestations of aquatic pests will occur in Contra Costa County. The risks associated with aquatic invasive species exist, and if a breakout occurs, there may be potentially large economic impacts. In aquatic ecosystems, climate change is expected to result in warmer water temperatures, altered streamflow patterns, increased salinization, and increased demand for water storage and conveyance structures. Due to these patterns, invasive aquatic species are expected to flourish, since cold temperatures or winter hypoxic conditions are what have traditionally prevented the establishment and survival of these species in this climate. Drought Drought is addressed in the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element and Public Facilities and Services Element, in addition to the Health and Safety Element. A drought is an extended period when precipitation levels are well below normal. Drought is a normal part of the climate cycle. Drought may cause losses to agriculture; affect domestic water supply, energy production, public health, and wildlife; or contribute to wildfire. Like most of California and the western United States, Contra Costa County chronically experiences drought cycles. Drought impacts the county’s water supply, which may in severe instances make less water available for people, businesses, and natural systems. Less snow falling in mountainous areas causes water levels in lakes and reservoirs to drop. Local ecosystems that are not well adapted to drought conditions can be easily harmed. During drought events, the flow of water in creeks and streams is reduced, slowing water flow or creating standing water, which can concentrate sediment and toxins, harming plants and animals. Droughts can also indirectly lead to more wildfires, and the stress caused by water shortages can weaken plants, making them more susceptible to pests and diseases. Drought conditions can also increase the salinity of the Delta, threatening wildlife habitat. The U.S. Drought Monitor recognizes a five-point scale for drought events: D0 (abnormally dry), D1 (moderate drought), D2 (severe drought), D3 (extreme drought), and D4 (exceptional drought). According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, the most intensive drought conditions in recent years were Page 526Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 B -24 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix during most of 2014 and 2021, when all of Contra Costa County was classified in “extreme” drought. During severe drought conditions, water shortages are common and water restrictions may be imposed to meet essential community needs. When the County declares a water shortage emergency under the authority of the Water Code, the County will implement actions in the Contra Costa County 2020 Water Shortage Contingency Plan to implement and enforce regulations and restrictions for managing a water shortage. The county has a diverse set of water supply options, including surface water and groundwater wells, to ensure that the community has adequate water, even after a period of dry years, through a combination of water supplies and water conservation measures. The county is serviced by 11 purveyors of domestic and industrial water, most of which is through surface water supplies from the East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) and the Contra Costa Water District (CCWD). EBMUD provides drinking water for 1.4 million customers in Contra Costa and Alameda counties over a 331-square-mile area. The EBMUD service area for drinking water in Contra Costa County covers western and central portions of the county, as shown on Figure PFS-2 in the Public Facilities and Services Element. CCWD provides treated and untreated water to a population of 500,000 in central and eastern Contra Costa County. In addition to EBMUD and CCWD, several smaller water providers serve the county, including incorporated communities, community services districts, and private suppliers. Approximately 90 percent of EBMUD’s water supply begins at the Mokelumne River watershed in the Sierra Nevada and extends 90 miles to the East Bay, passing through the Central Valley and Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. The Mokelumne Aqueducts convey the Mokelumne River supply to local storage and treatment facilities in Contra Costa and Alameda counties. After treatment, water is distributed to the incorporated cities and unincorporated communities in the East Bay that EBMUD serves. The primary source of water for CCWD is the Central Valley Project (CVP), a federally owned system of reservoirs and canals. The water supplied by the CVP originates from rivers in the Sierra Nevada and Klamath Mountains, primarily the American, Sacramento, Stanislaus, and Trinity Rivers. The water from these rivers flows into the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers, eventually finding its way into the Delta. Other water providers in Contra Costa County purchase water from EBMUD or CCWD, source water from the Delta or other surface supplies using their own water rights, or pump groundwater. Potential Changes to Drought in Future Years Drought is different than many of the other natural hazards in that it is not a distinct event and usually has a slow onset. Drought can severely impact a region both physically and economically, affecting different sectors in different ways and with varying intensities. Based on historical information, the occurrence of drought in California, including Contra Costa County, is cyclical, driven by weather patterns. Drought has occurred in the past and will occur in the future. Although droughts are a regular feature of California’s climate, scientists expect that climate change will lead to more frequent and intense droughts statewide. Overall, precipitation levels are expected to stay similar, and may even increase in some places. However, the state’s current data say that there will be more years with extreme levels of precipitation, both high and low, as a result of climate change. This is expected to cause more frequent and intense droughts compared to historical norms. Higher air temperatures are expected to increase evaporation, causing more water loss from lakes and reservoirs, exacerbating drought conditions. Reduced winter Page 527Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix B -25 precipitation levels and warmer temperatures have greatly decreased the size of the Sierra Nevada snowpack (i.e., the volume of accumulated snow), which in turn makes less fresh water available for communities throughout California, including the imported water supply for EBMUD and CCWD. Continued decline in the Sierra Nevada snowpack volume is expected, which may lead to lower volumes of available imported water. More precipitation is expected to fall as rain instead of snow, and the snow that does fall will melt earlier, reducing the Sierra Nevada spring snowpack by as much as 70 to 90 percent. How much snowpack will be lost depends in part on future precipitation patterns, the projections for which remain uncertain. However, even under wetter climate projections, the loss of snowpack would pose potential water shortage issues and exacerbate drought conditions. As the population in the county continues to grow, so will the demand for water. However, EBMUD and CCWD both consider their water supplies adequate to meet projected water needs through the year 2045. Extreme Heat Extreme heat occurs when temperatures rise significantly above normal levels; it is defined as a daytime temperature that exceeds the 90th percentile of the historic average temperature for that date. Extreme heat is a relative term, and different temperatures in different parts of Contra Costa County qualify as extreme heat events because people and buildings accustomed to cooler average temperatures may be less prepared for extreme heat events. For example, an extreme heat day in Rodeo is when temperatures reach 93 degrees Fahrenheit (oF), while in Alamo it is 97oF, and in Knightsen it is 102oF.. Health impacts are the primary concern with this hazard, though economic impacts are also an issue. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recognize extreme heat as a substantial public health concern. Historically, NOAA data indicate that about 175 Americans die from summer heat each year, although this number has increased in recent years. From 2004 to 2018, studies by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services indicate that there is an average of 702 deaths annually that are directly or indirectly linked to extreme heat. Following a record-breaking heat wave in 2006, over 16,000 emergency room visits, more than 1,100 hospitalizations, and at least 140 deaths were reported. As heat events are projected to become more frequent and last longer, preparing for the public health challenges they pose is critical. In 2019, Contra Costa County reported an extreme heat event from June 9th to 11th. The combination of high pressure and strong offshore flow resulted in an early season heat wave across the Bay Area. Multiple daily records were broken across the region due to the heat. Three fatalities were reported: one person died as a direct result of heat-related illness, and two others drowned while attempting to cool down during the heat wave. In 2021, Contra Costa County reported an extreme heat event from July 9th to 11th. Daytime highs rose above 100°F, with locations across the East Bay up to 110°F. Overnight lows remained warm, particularly across higher elevations, where temperatures were between 70°F and 80°F in the early mornings. There were no reported fatalities from this heat event. Extreme heat events are dangerous because people exposed to extreme heat can suffer a number of heat-related illnesses, including heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and (most severely) heat stroke. As reflected in the Vulnerability Assessment, seniors, small children, persons with chronic illnesses and disabilities, , and those with limited mobility are particularly susceptible to heat. Seniors and individuals below the poverty level are the most vulnerable to extreme heat. Nursing homes and elder-care facilities are especially vulnerable to extreme heat events if power outages occur and air conditioning is not available. In addition, individuals below the poverty level may be at increased risk from extreme heat if use of air conditioning is not Page 528Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 B -26 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix affordable. Areas with lower extreme heat thresholds are not necessarily at lower risk, because persons and community assets accustomed to cooler temperatures may be less prepared for extreme heat events. Outdoor workers in construction or landscaping are also much more exposed to the elements than most people, so they are more susceptible to extreme heat conditions and the potential illnesses associated with very high temperatures. Very high temperatures can harm plants and animals that are not well adapted to them. Extreme heat can increase the temperature of water in lakes, streams, creeks, and other water bodies, especially during drought events when water levels are lower. In some cases, water temperatures may exceed comfortable levels for several plants and animals, causing ecological harm. Trees and other vegetation in the natural and urban environment help to lower surface and air temperatures by 2°F to 9°F..6, 7 Indirectly, extreme heat puts more stress on power lines, causing them to run less efficiently. The heat also causes more demand for electricity (usually to run air conditioning units), and in combination with the stress on the power lines, may lead to brownouts and blackouts and associated health and economic impacts. Wildfire risk increases as vegetation dries out. Damage to roadways, bridges, and other transportation infrastructure may also occur. An example occurred in Contra Costa County in June 2022, when extreme heat buckled BART tracks, causing a derailment. Over 36,000 homes, or 57 percent of the housing stock in the unincorporated county, were constructed prior to 1980; they are unlikely to have air conditioning and may lack effective insulation. Therefore, people living in these homes, especially vulnerable populations, are at higher risk for heat-related illnesses from extreme heat events. To help provide relief from the heat, the County opens public libraries during extreme heat days and heat waves. These air-conditioned community spaces provide essential cool spaces for vulnerable populations. Potential Changes to Extreme Heat in Future Years Extreme heat tends to occur on an annual basis and is likely to continue occurring annually. While the western portions of Contra Costa County close to San Francisco Bay generally experience cooler temperatures than the eastern portions of the county, high temperatures throughout the county will continue to be a common occurrence. Overall, Contra Costa County is expected to see an increase in average daily high temperatures. Depending on the future severity of climate change, the State’s Cal-Adapt database indicates the annual average maximum temperature is expected to increase from a historical annual average of 71.1°F to an average of up to 75.8°F by the middle of the century (2035 to 2064), and an average of up to 79.0°F by the end of the century (2070 to 2099). Figure HS-13 shows the average temperature forecast in Contra Costa County for the end of the century. Although the temperature increases may appear modest, the projected high temperatures are substantially greater than historical norms. These increases also make it more likely that an above-average high temperature will cross the extreme heat threshold. The warmer temperatures brought on by climate change are likely to cause an increase in extreme heat events, increasing the risk of death from dehydration, heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heart attack, stroke, and respiratory distress. By the end of the century, the county is projected to experience an annual average of 18 to 30 extreme heat days per year. Page 529Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix B -27 Severe Weather Severe weather is generally any destructive weather event, but usually occurs in Contra Costa County as localized storms that bring heavy rain, hail, thunderstorms, and strong winds. Severe weather is usually caused by intense storm systems, although certain types of strong winds can occur without a storm. The types of dangers posed by severe weather vary widely and may include injuries or deaths, damage to buildings and structures, power outages, fallen trees, and roads and railways blocked by debris. In addition, lightning from these storms can strike objects and ignite wildfires and structure fires that can damage buildings and endanger people. Severe weather may also include tornadoes, although they are uncommon in Contra Costa County; only four have been recorded in the county since 1950. A relatively common weather pattern that brings southwest winds and heavy rain to California is often referred to as an atmospheric river. Atmospheric rivers are long, narrow regions in the atmosphere that transport most of the water vapor carried away from the tropics. These columns of vapor move with the weather, carrying large amounts of water vapor and strong winds. When the atmospheric rivers make landfall, they often release this water vapor in the form of rain or snow, causing heavy rains that can lead to flooding and mudslide events. High winds, often accompanying severe storms, can cause significant property damage, threaten public safety, and have adverse economic impacts from business closures and power loss. High winds, as defined by the National Weather Service, are sustained wind speeds of 40 miles per hour (mph) or higher lasting one hour or longer, or wind gusts of 58 mph or higher for any duration. These winds may occur as part of a seasonal climate pattern or in relation to other severe weather events, such as thunderstorms. Contra Costa County experiences high wind on an annual basis, although some high wind events have been particularly severe. On January 4, 2008, Contra Costa County reported 110 mph winds in the East Bay Hills and Diablo Range. During this high wind event, a very strong cyclone slammed into the San Francisco and Monterey Bay areas, bringing rain, high winds, record high surf, and coastal flooding. Hundreds of thousands of residences and businesses were without power, some for several days, due to high winds toppling power lines. The storm caused millions of dollars in property damage due to falling trees hitting cars and structures as well as damage to roads due to heavy rain. In another event on December 11, 2014, Contra Costa County reported 83 mph winds. This atmospheric river event brought heavy rain and gusty winds with a strong winter storm that impacted the Bay Area for several days. Contra Costa County and the greater Bay Area experienced a series of atmospheric rivers in winter 2023. Flooding was widespread throughout the county, with landslides in several steeper sloped areas of the county. All wind events pose several different types of threats. By themselves, the winds pose a threat to the health of people and structures in the county. Dust and plant pollen blown by the wind can create respiratory problems. The winds can blow roofs off buildings and cause tree limbs to fall on people and property. High winds also increase the threat of wildfires. Winds may dry out brush and forest areas, increasing the fuel load in fire-prone areas. Winds may spark wildfires by knocking down power lines or causing them to arc. If wildfires do start, high winds can push flames quickly into new areas, contributing to rapid spread and making them harder to control. This can also affect the air quality in Contra Costa County and may disrupt regional infrastructure networks. Page 530Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 B -28 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix Public Safety Power Shutoff Events Electricity utilities throughout California, including Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), have begun to occasionally “de-energize,” or turn off the electricity for power lines that run through areas where there is an elevated fire risk. This is intended to reduce the risk of power lines sparking or being damaged and starting a wildfire. These events, called public safety power shutoff (PSPS) events, result in a loss of power for customers served by the affected power lines. A PSPS event may occur at any time of the year, but they usually occur during high wind events and dry conditions. PSPS events may be limited to specific communities or they may affect broad swaths of the state. In October 2019, PG&E conducted one large-scale PSPS event, shutting off power to approximately 740,000 customers in 35 counties across the state, including customers in Contra Costa County. Several PSPS events also occurred in 2020. While smaller, these events still affected thousands of PG&E customers across the county. PSPS events can impact emergency management activities. A loss of power can make it more difficult for homes or businesses to receive emergency notifications if needed. PSPS events can also create vulnerabilities for community members that lack backup power supplies and depend on electricity for heating or cooling homes and buildings, lighting, and internet. PSPS events may also be harmful to people who depend on electrically powered medical devices. Additionally, community members may be faced with economic hardships and be deprived of important services, such as grocery stores, gas stations, and banks/ATMs. Traffic lights and other traffic- control systems may not work, which can complicate evacuation and may hinder emergency response. Although critical public health and safety facilities often have backup generators, the loss of power may also disable other key infrastructure systems. Potential Changes to Severe Weather in Future Years According to historical hazard data, severe weather is an annual occurrence in Contra Costa County. Damage and disaster declarations related to severe weather have occurred and will continue to occur in the future. Heavy rain and thunderstorms are the most frequent type of severe weather in the county. Wind and lightning often accompany these storms and have caused damage in the past. However, actual damage associated with the primary effects of severe weather has been limited. It is the secondary hazards, such as floods and fire, that have had the greatest impact on the county. Thunderstorms, high winds, and lightning can each have localized impacts on infrastructure, properties, and public safety. Transportation, including freight movement, faces increased congestion when severe storms occur. Climate change is expected to cause an increase in intense rainfall and strong storm systems. This means that Contra Costa County could see more intense weather resulting from these storms in the coming years and decades, although such an increase may not affect all forms of severe weather. While average annual rainfall may increase only slightly, climate change is expected to cause an increase in the number of years with intense levels of precipitation. Heavy rainfall can increase the frequency and severity of other hazards, including flooding. Page 531Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix B -29 Endnotes 1 Bedsworth, Louise, Dan Cayan, Guido Franco, Leah Fisher, Sonya Ziaja (California Governor’s Office of Planning and Research, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, California Energy Commission, California Public Utilities Commission). 2018. Statewide Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: SUMCCCA4-2018-013. 2 Ocean Protection Council. 2018. State of California Sea-Level Rise Guidance, https://opc.ca.gov/webmaster/ftp/pdf/agenda_items/20180314/Item3_Ex hibit-A_OPC_SLR_Guidance-rd3.pdf. 3 California Coastal Commission. 2018. California Coastal Commission Sea Level Rise Policy Guidance: Science Update – July 2018. https://documents.coastal.ca.gov/assets/slr/guidance/2018/3_Ch3_2018A doptedSLRGuidanceUpdate.pdf. 4 United States Geologic Survey. 2023. Frequently Asked Questions. https://www.usgs.gov/faqs/what-probability-earthquake-will-occur-los- angeles-area-san-francisco-bay- area#:~:text=Within%20the%20next%2030%20years,an%20earthquake %20measuring%20magnitude%207.5 5 United States Census Bureau. 2016–2020 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates: Year Structure Built. 6 Huang, J., H. Akbari, and H. Taha. 1990. The Wind-Shielding and Shading Effects of Trees on Residential Heating and Cooling Requirements. ASHRAE Winter Meeting, American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air- Conditioning Engineers. Atlanta, Georgia. 7 Kurn, D., S. Bretz, B. Huang, and H. Akbari. 1994. The Potential for Reducing Urban Air Temperatures and Energy Consumption through Vegetative Cooling. ACEEE Summer Study on Energy Efficiency in Buildings, American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy. Pacific Grove, California. Page 532Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 B -30 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix This page intentionally left blank. Page 533Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Page 534Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Page 535Contra Costa County General Plan_Public Review Draft_Combined_Reduced_Web_Quality.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 ATTACHMENT F OCTOBER 2023 PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN 2024 UPDATE WITH KONVEIO COMMENTS Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan 2024 Update October 2023 Public Review Draft 001 002 Page 1CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #001 Posted by Debra Vinson on 04/22/2024 at 8:15am [Comment ID: 68] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 I support a feasibility study and the development of a new land use ordinance to prohibit the development of new oil and gas wells and phase out any out-of-date, unused gas and oil wells. I support ending drilling in Contra Costa County and adding educational spaces throughout the Couty to teach youth how they can help protect the environment they live in. Thank you for considering this as a part of the General Plan for CCC. #002 Posted by Bethi Carver Gibb on 12/06/2023 at 8:06am [Comment ID: 12] - Link Question Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 With sea level rise, why is the county changing zoning to allow housing developments along the river and below sea level? And allowing these housing developments to be built without foundation 30’ Pilings, the flood design code. Does the county think developers homes are exempt from flooding and sea level rise? In the at MSL below Sea level regions the water table rises regardless of the levee. For instance the Oakley Almond orchards died from sea water intrusion to the roots. Page 2CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 October 2023 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan 2024 Update Prepared in collaboration with: PlaceWorks 2040 Bancroft Way, Suite 400 Berkeley, California 94704 placeworks.com Prepared For: Contra Costa County 1025 Escobar Street Martinez, CA 94553 Page 3CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION PLAN Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Acknowledgements Climate Action Plan Project Team Department of Conservation and Development John Kopchik, Director Jason Crapo, Deputy Director Jody London, Sustainability Coordinator Demian Hardman, Senior Planner – Energy Efficiency Programs Adam Scarbrough, Planner Nicole Shimizu, Planner Emily Groth, Planner and Climate Corps Fellow, 2022 – 2023 Savannah McCarthy, Climate Corps Fellow, 2021 – 2022 Cindy Cortez, Climate Corps Fellow, 2019 – 2020 Board of Supervisors John M. Gioia, District 1 Supervisor* Candace Andersen, District 2 Supervisor Diane Burgis, District 3 Supervisor Karen Mitchoff, District 4 Supervisor (term expired 2022) Ken Carlson, District 4 Supervisor (assumed office 2023) Federal D. Glover, District 5 Supervisor* *Indicates member of the Board Sustainability Committee Sustainability Commission Shoshana Wechsler, Member, District 1 Erin Levine, Alternate, District 1 Victoria Smith, Member, District 2 Christopher D. Easter, Alternate, District 2 Michael Moore, Member, District 3 Norman Cohen, Alternate, District 3 Brandon R. Matson, Member, District 4 Wesley Sullens, Alternate, District 4 Charles Davidson, Member, District 5 Renee Fernandez-Lipp, Alternate, District 5 Page 4CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Acknowledgements Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan –October 2023 Sustainability Commission (continued) Chuck Leonard, At-Large, Business Group Susan Hurl, At-Large, Business Group Luz Gomez, At-Large, Community Group Howdy Goudey, At-Large, Community Group Kimberly Hazard, At-Large, Education/Research Kiara Pereira, At-Large, Environmental Justice Sarah Foster, At-Large, Environmental Justice Nick Despota, Member, District 1, 2017 – 2023 Ryan Buckley, Alternate, District 2, 2018 – 2021 John Sierra, Member, District 3, 2017 – 2021 Gretchen Logue, Alternate, District 3, 2017 – 2019 Samantha Moy, Alternate, District 3, 2020 – 2023 Travis Curran, Alternate, District 4, 2017 – 2021 Russell Driver, At-Large, Business, 2019 – 2021 Marisha Farnsworth, At-Large, Business, 2020 – 2023 Nicholas Snyder, At-Large, Business, 2017 – 2020 Harry Thurston, At-Large, Community Group, 2017 – 2021 Doria Robinson, At-Large, Environmental Justice, 2017 – 2020 Isabella Zizi, At-Large, Environmental Justice, 2020 – 2023 Cover page photo credit: Jennifer Groth. Page 5CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION PLAN Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 i TABLE OF CONTENTS Table of Contents List of Abbreviations ............................................................................................. v Executive Summary .............................................................................................. 1 1. Purpose .............................................................................................................. 1 What Is the Climate Action Plan?................................................................................ 1 Climate Action and Equity ........................................................................................... 4 The CAP and General Plan Update ............................................................................ 8 How to Use This Plan ................................................................................................... 9 2. Climate Action Framework ........................................................................... 13 State Climate Action and Regulation ....................................................................... 13 Regional Climate Action ............................................................................................ 19 Climate Action in Contra Costa County ................................................................... 21 3. Climate Changes and GHGs ........................................................................... 31 Climate Science .......................................................................................................... 31 GHG Inventory and Forecast .................................................................................... 43 GHG Inventory ............................................................................................................ 44 GHG Forecast .............................................................................................................. 58 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy .......................................... 61 GHG Emissions Reduction Goals .............................................................................. 61 Existing and Planned GHG Emissions Reduction Efforts ...................................... 63 New Reduction Strategies to Achieve Our Goals ................................................... 66 Achieving Our Goals................................................................................................. 103 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy ...................................................................... 107 Vulnerability Assessment Summary ...................................................................... 107 Adaptation Strategies .............................................................................................. 112 6. Realizing the CAP .......................................................................................... 131 Enacting the Climate Action Plan ........................................................................... 131 Work Plan .................................................................................................................. 138 Page 6CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Table of Contents ii Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 7. Glossary ......................................................................................................... 171 Notes and Sources ................................................................................................... 177 Appendices Appendix A – Climate Change Policy and Legislation Appendix Appendix B – Technical GHG Appendix Appendix C – Vulnerability Assessment Technical Appendix Figures Figure ES-1. GHG Emissions With 2024 CAP Implementation Compared To Reduction Goals ..................................................................................................................... ES-6 Figure 1. Relationship of Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation ............................... 2 Figure 2. Jurisdiction of Contra Costa County CAP ............................................................... 3 Figure 3. Impacted Communities in the Unincorporated County ...................................... 6 Figure 4. California’s GHG Emissions Reduction Goals ...................................................... 14 Figure 5. Timeline of Climate Action Planning in Contra Costa County ........................... 22 Figure 6. Frequency and Projection of Extreme Heat Days in Concord and Richmond ................................................................................................................ 36 Figure 7. Absolute Annual GHG Emissions By Sector, 2005 to 2019 ................................ 47 Figure 8. Per-person Annual GHG Emissions By Sector, 2005 to 2019 ............................ 50 Figure 9. 2006 Baseline And 2017 County-Operations GHG Emissions Summary ........ 53 Figure 10. Consumption-Based GHG Emissions Inventory Results ................................... 56 Figure 11. Absolute GHG Emissions Forecast, 2019 To 2045 .............................................. 59 Figure 12. GHG Emission Levels And Reduction Goals ........................................................ 63 Figure 13. defining a CAP Goal, Strategy, And Action .......................................................... 68 Figure 14. Emissions Produced per kWh Of Electricity, MCE And PG&E ............................ 73 Figure 15. Contra Costa County 2045 GHG Emissions With Implementation of 2024 CAP ............................................................................................................... 105 Page 7CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Table of Contents Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 iii Tables Table ES-1. Contra Costa County GHG Emissions And Emission Goals, 2019 To 2045 (MTCO2e) .............................................................................................................. ES-2 Table ES-2. 2024 Climate Action Strategies .......................................................................... ES-3 Table ES-3. GHG Emissions after 2024 CAP ImplEmentation ............................................ ES-5 Table 1. Comparison of Topics in The 2045 General Plan and the 2024 CAP ................. 9 Table 2. Climate Change Impacts In California ................................................................. 33 Table 3. Absolute Annual GHG Emissions, 2005 to 2019 ................................................. 46 Table 4. Proportion of GHG Emissions, 2005 To 2019 ..................................................... 47 Table 5. Per-person GHG Emissions, 2005 To 2019 ......................................................... 49 Table 6. 2006 Baseline And 2017 County-Operations GHG Emissions Summary ........ 53 Table 7. Absolute GHG Emissions Forecast, 2019 To 2045 .............................................. 58 Table 8. Contra Costa County GHG Emissions And Emission Goals, 2019 To 2045 ..... 62 Table 9. GHG Emission Reductions From Existing And Planned Actions, 2019 To 2045 .......................................................................................................... 65 Table 10. GHG Emissions With 2024 CAP Draft Reduction Strategies, 2019 to 2045 ... 103 Table 11. 2024 GHG Emission Reductions and Regulatory Goals ................................... 104 Table 12. 2024 CAP Implementation Matrix ...................................................................... 140 Page 8CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Table of Contents iv Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 This page intentionally left blank. Page 9CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION PLAN v Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS List of Abbreviations AB: Assembly Bill BAAQMD: Bay Area Air Quality Management District BayREN: Bay Area Regional Energy Network CARB: California Air Resources Board CCTA: Contra Costa Transportation Authority CEC: California Energy Commission CERT: Community Emergency Response Team CH4: Methane CO2: Carbon dioxide CPUC: California Public Utilities Commission CRIPP: County Road Improvement and Preservation Program CTP: Countywide Transportation Plan e-bike: Electric bicycle EBMUD: East Bay Municipal Utilities District EV: Electric vehicle EVSE: Electric vehicle supply equipment GHG: Greenhouse gas GSA: Groundwater Sustainability Agency IPCC: Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change LCFS: Low Carbon Fuel Standard MTCO2e: Metric tons of CO2 equivalence MWELO: Model Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance N2O: Nitrous oxide PPD: Pounds per person per day PSPS: Public Safety Power Shutoff RPS: Renewables Portfolio Standard Page 10CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 List of Abbreviations vi Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 SGMA: Sustainable Groundwater Management Act TNC: Transportation network company USEPA: United States Environmental Protection Agency VMT: Vehicle miles traveled WUI: Wildland-urban interface Page 11CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION PLAN Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 ES-1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Executive Summary This 2024 Climate Action Plan (2024 CAP) is part of Envision Contra Costa, the County’s comprehensive update to the General Plan, Zoning Code, and Climate Action Plan. The 2024 CAP, an update of the 2015 CAP, is Contra Costa County’s plan to achieve its vision for a sustainable future, adapt to changing climate conditions, and rapidly reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to support a pathway to statewide net-zero emissions by 2045. The 2024 CAP is intended to serve as a companion to the Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan (2045 General Plan) and to mitigate GHG emissions that result from implementation of the General Plan. The 2024 CAP features a planning horizon out to 2045 and provides updated information and an expanded set of GHG emissions reduction and climate adaptation strategies. This 2024 CAP builds on the work that was established in the 2015 CAP and reflects the latest developments in county- and regional-level climate action planning initiatives, GHG emissions reductions in County operations, and climate action planning policies and practices at the State level. The 2024 CAP allows the County’s decision makers, staff, and communities to understand the sources and magnitude of local GHG emissions and the impacts of climate change on unincorporated communities, prioritize steps to achieve long- term GHG emissions reduction goals, and increase resilience to climate change–related hazards consistent with the County’s goals for land use, transportation, housing, and environmental justice. The Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development led preparation of the 2024 CAP at the direction of the County’s Board of Supervisors. Preparation of the 2024 CAP occurred from 2018 to 2024 as part of Envision Contra Costa and in collaboration with a consultant team, the Board Sustainability Committee, the County’s Sustainability Commission, County departments, and community members. The County remains committed to achieving the ambitious GHG emission reductions adopted by the State of California in response to the increasing impacts and threat of climate change. The 2024 CAP provides strategies and actions that support the State’s GHG The Contra Costa Board of Supervisors has declared that climate change “threatens the long-term economic and social well-being, health, safety, and security of the County, and that urgent action by all levels of government is needed to immediately address this climate emergency”. (Resolution No. 2020/256) Page 12CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Executive Summary ES-2 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 emissions reduction goals through 2045, as established by State laws and regulations, including: • Reduce community-wide GHG emissions by 40 percent from the 1990 levels by 2030. • Reduce community-wide GHG emissions by at least 85 percent from the 1990 levels by 2045 and be on a pathway to support statewide carbon neutrality by 2045. The County’s GHG emissions reduction goals and associated emissions are summarized in Table ES-1. The 2024 CAP is designed to enable Contra Costa County to meet the State’s regulatory emissions reduction goals, in addition to attaining other County land use, economic growth, and environmental justice objectives. TABLE ES-1. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY GHG EMISSIONS AND EMISSION GOALS, 2019 TO 2045 (MTCO2e) 2019 2030 2045 Forecast GHG emissions 1,060,440 1,199,360 1,362,620 Goal None 658,700 164,680 GHG emissions to be reduced N/A 540,660 1,197,940 Note: Numbers rounded to the nearest 10. CLIMATE ACTION STRATEGIES The 2024 CAP presents climate action strategies that build on the County’s past achievements and will allow the County to attain its GHG emissions reduction goals while improving community resilience and achieving its goals for growth, economic development, and environmental justice. These climate action strategies include those that directly reduce GHG emissions and those that help lower emissions but are not as easy to directly track, as well as strategies to help improve community resilience to climate hazards through adaptation. The 29 comprehensive strategies in the 2024 CAP reflect input and feedback from communities and County staff and incorporate regional regulations and State laws that are expected to be enacted in the future. All strategies are listed in Table ES-2. Out of the 29 climate action strategies, 11 directly result in GHG emission reductions. The remaining 18 strategies are focused on climate hazard resilience, leadership, equity, and other sustainability goals. The 29 climate action strategies are organized into eight categories. 003 004 005 Page 13CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #003 Posted by Luz Gomez on 01/04/2024 at 1:12pm [Comment ID: 18] - Link Suggestion Agree: 1, Disagree: 0 It would be great to get a brief definition of community-wide when we first introduce this term. #004 Posted by Tracy Marcial on 04/08/2024 at 10:03am [Comment ID: 50] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 It would be great if this table showed 1990 levels, since that's the reference above. I'm not actually sure how to show that myself for our organization, since there are no records back from that time. Or an explanation of why it doesn't, or how the County/the state is accounting for the 1990 baseline. #005 Posted by Luz Gomez on 01/04/2024 at 1:13pm [Comment ID: 19] - Link Question Agree: 1, Disagree: 0 Would it be possible to add a link directly to this table here? Page 14CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Executive Summary Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 ES-3 TABLE ES-2. 2024 CLIMATE ACTION STRATEGIES Clean and Efficient Built Environment (BE) Homes, workplaces, and businesses in unincorporated Contra Costa County run efficiently on clean energy. BE-1: Require and incentivize new buildings and additions built in unincorporated Contra Costa County to be low-carbon or carbon neutral. * BE-2: Retrofit existing buildings and facilities in the unincorporated county, and County infrastructure, to reduce energy use and convert to low-carbon or carbon-neutral fuels. * BE-3: Increase the amount of electricity used and generated from renewable sources in the county. * No Waste Contra Costa (NW) Contra Costa County disposes of no more solid waste than 2.2 pounds per person per day (PPD). NW-1: Increase composting of organic waste. * NW-2: Reduce waste from County operations. * NW-3: Increase community-wide recycling and waste minimization programs. * NW-4: Reduce emissions from landfill gas. * Reduce Water Use and Increase Drought Resilience (DR) Contra Costa County uses less water and communities are prepared for drought. DR-1: Reduce indoor and outdoor water use. * DR-2: Ensure sustainable and diverse water supplies. Clean Transportation Network (TR) Contra Costa County's transportation network provides safe and accessible options for walking, biking, and transit. If residents and workers are driving, they are in zero-emission vehicles. TR-1: Improve the viability of walking, biking, zero-emission commuting, and using public transit for travel within, to, and from the county. * TR-2: Increase the use of zero-emission vehicles. Transition to a zero-emission County fleet by 2035 and a community fleet that is at least 50 percent zero-emission by 2030. * 006 Page 15CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #006 Posted by Howdy Goudey on 02/25/2024 at 10:31pm [Comment ID: 43] - Link Suggestion Agree: 1, Disagree: 0 BE-1 and BE-2 mention carbon-neutrality. There should be a targeted cap on the fraction of emission reduction achieved by carbon offset/neutrality, especially when the offset occurs outside the county. The CAP should explicitly target a small fraction, <10% of emissions reductions from offsets and neutrality measures, to make it clear this is a secondary way to address a small amount of difficult to avoid emissions, rather than a wide scale solution Page 16CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Executive Summary ES-4 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Resilient Communities and Natural Infrastructure (NI) Contra Costa County will increase resilience to climate hazards and foster community health. NI-1: Protect against and adapt to changes in sea levels and other shoreline flooding conditions. NI-2: Protect against and adapt to increases in the frequency and intensity of wildfire events. NI-3: Establish and maintain community resilience hubs. NI-4: Sequester carbon on natural and working lands in Contra Costa County. * NI-5: Minimize heat island effects through the use of cool roofs and green infrastructure. NI-6: Protect communities against additional hazards created or exacerbated by climate change. Climate Equity (CE) Contra Costa County will address environmental factors leading to health disparities, promote safe and livable communities, and promote investments that improve neighborhood accessibility. CE-1: Provide access to affordable, clean, safe, and healthy housing and jobs. CE-2: Invest in solutions to support climate equity. CE-3: Increase access to parks and open space. CE-4: Ensure residents have equitable, year-round access to affordable, local fresh food. CE-5: Ensure that large industrial facilities act as good neighbors. Leadership (L) Contra Costa County is a model for how local government can take action on climate issues. L-1: Establish Contra Costa County as a leader among local governments for addressing climate issues. L-2: Continue to recognize the climate crisis as an emergency for Contra Costa County and make addressing climate change a top County priority. Implementation (IS) Contra Costa County will ensure it follows through to achieve the goals and actions in this Climate Action Plan. IS-1: Monitor and report progress toward achieving Climate Action Plan goals on an annual basis. IS-2: Continue collaborative partnerships with agencies and community groups that support Climate Action Plan implementation, with an emphasis on residents and community-based organizations from Impacted Communities. IS-3: Secure necessary funding to implement the Climate Action Plan. Page 17CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Executive Summary Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 ES-5 IS-4: Continue to update the baseline emissions inventory and Climate Action Plan every five years. IS-5: Maintain and update the Climate Action Plan to allow for greater resilience. *Indicates strategy with quantified GHG emissions reductions. In conjunction with existing local and State programs, these climate action strategies provide a path to reduce the County’s GHG emissions to 658,300 MTCO2e by 2030 and to 157,610 MTCO2e by 2045 and support statewide attainment of net carbon neutrality by 2045 (Table ES-3 and Figure ES-1). With the reductions currently projected from the 2024 CAP GHG emissions reduction strategies, GHG emissions for the unincorporated county are expected to be reduced to 86 percent below 1990 levels, equal to 88 percent below baseline 2005 levels or 85 percent below 2019 levels. These reductions are predicted to occur across most GHG emission sectors, though emissions within the solid waste sector will continue to be affected by previously deposited waste continuing to decompose in landfills. With these reductions as currently assessed, unincorporated Contra Costa County achieves the GHG emissions reduction goals for 2030 and 2045. TABLE ES-3. GHG EMISSIONS AFTER 2024 CAP IMPLEMENTATION 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E GHG emissions goals 658,700 164,680 GHG emissions after CAP implementation 658,300 157,610 Goal achieved? Yes Yes Note: Due to rounding, totals may not equal the sum of the individual values. 007 Page 18CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #007 Posted by Luz Gomez on 03/15/2024 at 9:30am [Comment ID: 48] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 Include federal and regional efforts here. Not just local and state. Page 19CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Executive Summary ES-6 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 FIGURE ES-1. GHG EMISSIONS WITH 2024 CAP IMPLEMENTATION COMPARED TO REDUCTION GOALS IMPLEMENTATION Climate change already touches all aspects of life, work, and play within unincorporated Contra Costa County. In the absence of focused, ambitious, and equitable climate action, these effects will only become more pronounced, disruptive, and harmful over time. The County will use this document to help set climate action planning priorities, allocate resources to the communities and assets that are most vulnerable to climate change, and monitor and evaluate progress towards GHG emissions reduction goals and increases in community equity and resilience. The 2024 CAP and 2045 General Plan provide a blueprint 0 200,000 400,000 600,000 800,000 1,000,000 1,200,000 1,400,000 2005 2013 2017 2019 2030 2045GHG Emissions (MTCO2e)Baseline emissions Emissions without CAP Emissions with CAP Goal Contra Costa County is dedicated to making our communities cleaner and healthier for families, children, and future generations. Emissions reduced by CAP. 008 009 Page 20CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #008 Posted by Howdy Goudey on 02/25/2024 at 10:19pm [Comment ID: 42] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 Table ES-1 uses a baseline of 1990 for the reduction calculations, based on the stated goals, but figure ES-1 show the baseline as 2005 (a higher emission level than 1990). For consistency, the baseline should be at the 1990 level (which is similar to 2019) in this figure #009 Posted by Howdy Goudey on 02/25/2024 at 10:16pm [Comment ID: 41] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 Table ES-1 shows GHG forecast emission (business as usual) rising from 2019 to 2045. While Figure ES-1 shows a declining forecast without the CAP (presumably from State measures). These should be consistent? If we consider state measures as part of business as usual in figure ES-1, shouldn’t we do the same in table ES-1? Page 21CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Executive Summary Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 ES-7 for how the County, its residents, and businesses can achieve a more sustainable, resilient future. The County developed the 2024 CAP with the support and coordination of communities, and continued collaboration between the County and community partners is central to the 2024 CAP’s successful implementation. Residents, workers, and business owners can use this document to better understand their personal and community-level vulnerability to climate change and for guidance on how to reduce their GHG emissions and improve their climate resiliency, including finding information about available financial and educational resources. This 2024 CAP guides new development by introducing strategies that will reduce GHG emissions associated with the built environment. The 2024 CAP is a California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)-qualified Climate Action Plan, which means that future development projects requiring environmental review under State law can streamline their GHG impact analyses by demonstrating consistency with the 2024 CAP. This streamlining can save time and money during the environmental review process by allowing developers to reduce the number of steps involved in the environmental impact assessment process. Therefore, it is important that developers, landowners, planners, and others familiarize themselves with the strategies in the 2024 CAP and comply with these strategies when designing, approving, and building new development. County staff will monitor progress and provide regular updates to communities to ensure the effectiveness of each strategy. To ensure that the implementation process is efficient and transparent, the 2024 CAP includes a high-level implementation plan that identifies responsible County departments, partners, and time frames associated with each strategy. Implementation of the plan will occur over four time frames—near term (by 2026), mid- term (by 2028), and long term (by 2030). The strategies do not have end dates because they are intended to remain in effect into the future. County staff will lead 2024 CAP implementation by collaborating with and supporting community organizations, residents, businesses, and stakeholders to create programs that accomplish the goals, strategies, and actions outlined in the 2024 CAP. To set the 2024 CAP up for success, the County will integrate the plan’s goals, strategies, and actions into applicable County programs, plans, and initiatives. The 2024 CAP should be considered a living document that the County can modify to ensure that the GHG emissions reduction goals are achieved. 010 Page 22CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #010 Posted by Howdy Goudey on 02/25/2024 at 10:11pm [Comment ID: 40] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 Only 3 time periods are mentioned after saying there will be four. Consider adding another designation for after 2030? Page 23CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Executive Summary ES-8 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 This page intentionally left blank. Page 24CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION PLAN Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 1 1. PURPOSE 1. Purpose Photo credit: Ben Weise. What Is the Climate Action Plan? The Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan (2024 CAP) is the County’s strategic plan to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and to adapt to changing climate conditions in the unincorporated areas of the county. The 2024 CAP demonstrates Contra Costa County’s leadership and commitment to reduce GHG emissions and enhance community resiliency to long-term changes associated with climate-related hazards such as heat, flooding, droughts, and wildfires. The 2024 CAP is an update of the 2015 CAP. It provides updated information, an expanded set of GHG emissions reduction strategies, climate adaptation strategies, and a planning horizon out to 2045. It also establishes an implementation program and a framework to monitor, track, and report progress over time. The 2024 CAP builds on several earlier sustainability and energy efficiency efforts and local accomplishments. The 2024 CAP is intended to serve as a companion to the County’s General Plan, Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan, and to mitigate GHG emissions that result from implementation of the General Plan. This approach supports a holistic view of climate action planning and sustainability—it works to reduce Contra Costa County’s contribution to climate change while simultaneously preparing for the changes that cannot be avoided. Figure 1 depicts the relationship between reducing GHG emissions, also referred to as climate change mitigation, and climate change adaptation. Page 25CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 1 2 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 FIGURE 1. RELATIONSHIP OF CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION AND ADAPTATION Image credit: California Adaptation Planning Guide. The 2024 CAP allows decision-makers, residents, businesses, and community stakeholders to understand the sources and magnitude of local emissions from the energy, solid waste, water, and transportation sectors of the unincorporated county (see Figure 2 for the jurisdiction of the 2024 CAP 1); establish goals to reduce emissions; and prioritize steps to achieve reduction goals. The 2024 CAP includes goals, strategies, and actions that the County and community can take to achieve significant GHG emission reductions in the unincorporated areas of the county and ensure that the County is on track to support the State’s goal to achieve statewide net carbon neutrality by 2045. 1 Figure 2 shows the Urban Limit Line (ULL), which limits urban development to certain areas of the county and helps preserve farmland, open space, and habitat. Page 26CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 1. Purpose Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 3 FIGURE 2. JURISDICTION OF CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CAP Page 27CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 1 4 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 This 2024 CAP includes strategies that directly reduce GHG emissions as well as strategies that help lower emissions but are not as easy to directly track. The 2024 CAP includes information about how climate change may affect natural hazards and identifies the populations, infrastructure, services, facilities, and natural resources in the unincorporated county that are most vulnerable to the effects of climate change. The 2024 CAP has a suite of strategies to help improve community resilience to these hazards, also known as adaptation. The County developed the 2024 CAP between 2018 and 2024 as part of the County’s General Plan update process, Envision Contra Costa. The Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development prepared the 2024 CAP at the direction of the County’s Board of Supervisors and in collaboration with a consultant team, the Board Sustainability Committee, the County’s Sustainability Commission, County departments, and community members. This 2024 CAP builds on the work that was established in the 2015 CAP and reflects the latest developments in county- and regional-level climate action planning initiatives, County GHG emissions reductions, and climate action planning policies and practices at the State level. Climate Action and Equity Climate action is closely intertwined with equity issues, and a comprehensive approach to addressing climate change must also address the entrenched inequities in our society. In Contra Costa County and elsewhere in California, Equity: The state in which each individual or group is allocated the resources needed to reach an equal outcome. Contra Costa County is dedicated to making our communities cleaner and healthier for families, children, and future generations. Page 28CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 1. Purpose Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 5 Impacted Communities 2, such as low-income, disabled, senior, and communities of color, have faced extensive discrimination, negligence, and economic disempowerment. Members of Impacted Communities often live in areas that are more at risk from climate change–related natural hazards. These persons also often lack the financial means and other resources or authority to act on climate change. These may include purchasing an electric vehicle, learning skills to pursue jobs in an emerging green economy, and if they own a home, retrofitting their home to better withstand climate change impacts, and renovating their home to improve energy efficiency, installing solar panels on their house. As seen in Figure 3, Impacted Communities in the unincorporated county are concentrated along the county’s northern waterfront. The 2024 CAP acknowledges such inequities and recognizes that Contra Costa County must play a role in resolving them. Though this 2024 CAP cannot solve inequity by itself, it can contribute to a more equitable future by: • Providing resources to persons and communities who have historically been denied them. • Integrating equity considerations into County decision-making processes. • Supporting Impacted Communities in taking action to address climate change. • Creating a Just Transition that helps address the root causes of climate change and system inequities. • Ensuring that Impacted Communities have a voice in climate action planning through community-driven planning. Equity was a key priority of the County in developing the 2024 CAP and 2045 General Plan. Many of the GHG emissions reduction and climate adaptation strategies in this 2024 CAP help to improve community equity. Those strategies are marked with the icon of a balance scale, as shown at the right. 2 “Impacted Communities” refers to a designation developed by CalEPA. CalEPA has formally designated four categories of geographic areas as “disadvantaged”: 1. Census tracts receiving the highest 25 percent of overall scores in CalEnviroScreen 4.0; 2. Census tracts lacking overall scores in CalEnviroScreen 4.0 due to data gaps, but receiving the highest 5 percent of CalEnviroscreen 4.0 cumulative pollution burden scores; 3. Census tracts identified in the 2017 DAC designation as disadvantaged, regardless of their scores in CalEnviroScreen 4.0; and 4. Lands under the control of federally recognized tribes. The term “Impacted Communities” was selected via community input. Page 29CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 1 6 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 FIGURE 3. IMPACTED COMMUNITIES IN THE UNINCORPORATED COUNTY Page 30CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 1. Purpose Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 7 Equity vs. Equality “Equity and equality are often used interchangeably, but equity and equality do not mean the same thing. Equality is about sameness—meaning that everyone receives the same thing regardless of any other factors. However, equality is only useful if everyone starts from the same place, which is often not the case. Lower-income populations and communities of color often have less access to healthy and energy-efficient housing, transit, or safe bicycling and walking routes. Equity, on the other hand, is about fairness, which is about ensuring that people have access to the same opportunities and have what they need to thrive and succeed. Equity is needed before equality can be reached. This understanding recognizes that people may have different starting points and may need different types and levels of support to flourish.” Reference: Urban Sustainability Directors’ Network Guide to Equitable Community-Driven Climate Preparedness Planning, May 2017 Image Credit: Interaction Institute for Social Change | Artist: Angus Maguire Page 31CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 1 8 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 The CAP and General Plan Update The County updated the CAP in tandem with the update of the County’s General Plan (2045 General Plan). The 2024 CAP is intended to complement and help implement the General Plan. There is some overlap in topics addressed by the 2045 General Plan and the 2024 CAP; the concurrent preparation of the plans ensures they are consistent. The 2045 General Plan acknowledges this connection by highlighting policies that promote sustainability with a special icon: . The climate action strategies presented later in this CAP include General Plan policies and actions that reduce GHGs or increase resilience are cross-referenced with the General Plan policy or action number in parenthesis. The 2024 CAP is thus linked with the General Plan in continuing the County’s path towards sustainability. The 2045 General Plan also includes completion of a climate change vulnerability assessment. This assessment considers climate changes likely to affect unincorporated Contra Costa County in the future and projected impacts on populations, assets, and community services. The County used findings from the vulnerability assessment to inform policies related to climate change resilience and adaptation, resource conservation, and energy use in both the 2045 General Plan and 2024 CAP. The results of the vulnerability assessment are provided in Chapter 3 and Appendix C. The 2024 CAP focuses on behaviors, regulations, and investment decisions that directly reduce GHG emissions and/or promote climate resilience and lays out an implementation and monitoring program to ensure that the County meets its State GHG emissions reduction goals. GHG emissions are highly dependent on County-level policies regulating land use, resource use and conservation, and transportation. A comparison of the topics addressed in the 2045 General Plan and the 2024 CAP is provided in Table 1. The Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan is the County’s primary policy tool to guide physical changes in the unincorporated areas of the county. This General Plan looks over 20 years into the future and establishes a vision for development of our communities and stewardship of our natural environment. It is aspirational and long-range, but also practical, providing a useful, everyday guide for community planning. Page 32CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 1. Purpose Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 9 TABLE 1. COMPARISON OF TOPICS IN THE 2045 GENERAL PLAN AND THE 2024 CAP UPDATED GENERAL PLAN 2024 CAP • Housing • Open space and ecological preservation • Land use patterns • Agriculture • Transportation • Flood hazards and sea level rise • Water conservation and quality • Energy use and generation • Solid waste management • Mineral, oil, and natural gas resources • Public facilities and infrastructure • Economic development • Historic and cultural resources • Community health • Air quality • Greenhouse gases • Climate change resilience and adaptation • Wildfire hazards • Extreme heat • Hazardous materials • Seismic and geologic hazards • Emergency response and evacuation • Noise • Greenhouse gas emissions • Climate change effects and vulnerabilities • Agricultural pests and diseases, air quality, drought, extreme heat, flooding, fog, human health hazards, landslides and debris flows, severe storms, sea level rise, shoreline flooding, and wildfires • Climate change resilience and adaptation • Transportation • Energy use and generation • Water conservation • Solid waste management • County leadership • Carbon sequestration • County investments • Economic development and Just Transition How to Use This Plan Climate change already touches all aspects of life, work, and play within Contra Costa County. In the absence of focused, ambitious, and equitable climate action, these effects will only become more pronounced over time. The 2024 CAP is intended for residents, workers, business owners, County staff, and policymakers to provide information about the science of climate change, to highlight what the County has already done to address climate change, and to establish a road map for further emissions reductions and advances in community equity and resilience. Page 33CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 1 10 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 The County will use this document to help set climate action planning priorities, allocate resources to the communities and assets that are most vulnerable to climate change, and monitor and evaluate progress towards GHG emissions reduction goals and increases in community equity and resilience. Residents, workers, and business owners can use this document to better understand their personal and community-level vulnerability to climate change and for guidance on how to reduce their GHG emissions and improve their climate resiliency, including finding information about available financial and educational resources. This 2024 CAP guides new development by introducing strategies that will reduce GHG emissions associated with the built environment. The 2024 CAP is a CEQA-qualified Climate Action Plan or GHG reduction strategy, which means that future development projects in the unincorporated county that require environmental review under State law will have the option to streamline their GHG impact analyses by demonstrating consistency with this CAP. This streamlining can save time and money during the environmental review process by allowing developers to reduce the number of steps involved in the environmental impact assessment process. Therefore, it is important that developers, landowners, planners, and others familiarize themselves with the strategies in the 2024 CAP and comply with these strategies when constructing new development. The remainder of this 2024 CAP covers the following topics: • Chapter 2 (Climate Action Framework) discusses the State, regional, and local regulatory framework that informs the 2024 CAP and related climate action planning efforts. It also highlights some of Contra Costa County’s recent and ongoing efforts to reduce GHG emissions and improve resilience to climate change. Chapter 2 is supported by the Climate Change Policy and Legislation Appendix (Appendix A). • Chapter 3 (Climate Change and GHGs) presents the results of two analyses: the GHG inventory and forecast for unincorporated Contra Costa County, which assesses recent and projected future GHG emissions; a discussion of the County’s consumption-based inventory; and a study of the expected future changes to climate change–related hazards. The 2024 CAP is intended for residents, workers, business owners, and policymakers to provide information about the science of climate change, to highlight what the County has already done to address climate change, and to establish a road map for further emissions reductions and advances in community equity and resilience. Page 34CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 1. Purpose Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 11 • Chapter 4 (GHG Emission Reduction Strategy) identifies the levels of GHG emissions reductions that the 2024 CAP seeks to achieve and presents the County’s set of strategies and actions to meet or exceed these reductions. It also shows the GHG emissions that have already been reduced through existing and planned State, regional, and local efforts. Chapter 4 is supported by the GHG Technical Appendix (Appendix B). • Chapter 5 (Climate Adaptation Strategy) presents the findings of the vulnerability assessment, which looks at how people and community assets may be harmed by climate change–related hazards. It lays out the County’s strategies to improve resilience to these hazards and adapt to changing conditions. Chapter 5 is supported by the Vulnerability Assessment Technical Appendix (Appendix C). • Chapter 6 (Realizing the 2024 CAP) presents the implementation details and high-level work plan of the 2024 CAP, emphasizing the County’s leadership on climate action planning. Page 35CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 1 12 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 This page intentionally left blank. Page 36CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION PLAN Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 13 2.CLIMATE ACTION FRAMEWORK 2. Climate Action Framework The 2024 CAP builds on a legacy of climate action planning in California on the State level and at the regional and local level. These existing plans, regulations, and programs inform future GHG emissions projections, GHG emissions reduction strategies, and climate action and resilience strategies that appear in this document. State Climate Action and Regulation California has a history of enacting legislation aimed at reducing the State’s GHG emissions and ensuring resiliency in the face of a changing climate. California law first addressed climate change directly in 1988, when Assembly Bill (AB) 4420 directed the State to prepare a GHG inventory and study the impacts of climate change. Since then, California’s governors have signed several executive orders, and the legislature has adopted several laws to assess climate change, analyze GHG emissions and their effects, reduce emissions, and prepare for the impacts of climate change. Many of these laws and regulations affect local governments, but not all create specific requirements for individual communities. California has a history of enacting legislation aimed at reducing the state’s GHG emissions and ensuring resiliency in the face of a changing climate. Page 37CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 2 14 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 This section provides brief summaries of key climate change legislation, and Appendix A provides more detailed descriptions of climate change legislation. The State’s major goals are shown in Figure 4. FIGURE 4. CALIFORNIA’S GHG EMISSIONS REDUCTION GOALS EXECUTIVE ORDER S-03-05 AND ASSEMBLY BILL 32 – CALIFORNIA GLOBAL WARMING SOLUTIONS ACT OF 2006 In 2005, former Governor Schwarzenegger issued Executive Order S-03-05, which established the first statewide GHG emissions reduction goals for California and directed the State to: • Reduce emissions to 2000 levels by 2010. • Reduce emissions to 1990 levels by 2020.3 • Reduce emissions 80 percent below 1990 levels by 2050. 3 According to an assessment of GHG emissions trends conducted by the Air Resources Board in 2022, statewide GHG emissions dropped below the 2020 GHG emissions limit in 2014 and have remained below the limit since that time. 2020: Reduce GHG emissions to 1990 levels (enacted by EO S-03-05, codified by AB 32) 2030: Reduce GHG emissions 40 percent below 1990 levels (enacted by EO B-30-15, codified by SB 32) 2045: Achieve net carbon neutrality (enacted by EO B-55- 18, codified by AB 1279) Page 38CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 2. Climate Action Framework Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 15 In 2006, Governor Schwarzenegger signed Assembly Bill (AB) 32, the Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006. AB 32 codified the 2020 reduction goal, requiring California to reduce statewide GHG emissions to 1990 levels by 2020. EXECUTIVE ORDER B-30-15 AND SENATE BILL 32 In 2015, former Governor Jerry Brown signed Executive Order (EO) B-30-15, which directed State agencies to take several steps to reduce statewide GHG emissions and adapt to changing climate conditions. One section of this executive order set a GHG emissions reduction goal for the State of 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030. In 2016, the legislature passed, and the governor signed Senate Bill (SB) 32, which codified the 2030 GHG emissions reduction goal into law. EXECUTIVE ORDER B-55-18 In 2018, Governor Brown issued Executive Order B-55-18, which established an additional statewide goal of achieving carbon neutrality (no net GHG emissions) by 2045. Under this goal, any GHGs that are emitted by California must be fully offset by other activities by 2045. This goal does not yet have the force of law, but it does indicate the direction that the State is moving in and may be a reference point for future legislative action. ASSEMBLY BILL 1279 In 2022, Governor Newsom signed AB 1279, the California Climate Crisis Act, which requires the State to achieve net zero GHG emissions as soon as possible, but no later than 2045, and achieve and maintain net negative GHG emissions thereafter. The bill also requires California to reduce statewide GHG emissions by 85 percent compared to 1990 levels and directs the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to work with relevant State agencies to achieve these goals. Net carbon neutrality A net carbon neutral goal means that any GHG emissions produced by the community are balanced out through carbon sequestration, offsets, or other activities that remove GHG emissions from the atmosphere, so that the community’s net GHG emissions are zero. Ideally, the community will reduce its own emissions as much as possible, and then balance out the remainder. The scenario in the 2022 Scoping Plan would reduce emissions to approximately 85 percent below 1990 levels and then offset the remaining emissions, as required by AB 1279. Page 39CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 2 16 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 CLIMATE CHANGE SCOPING PLAN The Climate Change Scoping Plan 1 (Scoping Plan) was first adopted in 2008 and was updated in 2014, 2017, and 2022. The Scoping Plan describes the strategies that California will implement to reduce the State’s emissions to achieve the emission reduction goals required by statute. It identifies GHG emissions reduction strategies to achieve the State’s goals, including direct regulations, alternate compliance mechanisms, incentives, voluntary actions, and market-based approaches like a cap-and-trade program. Although the Scoping Plan has a statewide focus, it identifies local governments as strategic partners to achieving the State goals. Each version of the Scoping Plan has provided guidance for local government actions to reduce GHGs. The 2008 Scoping Plan noted that the statewide goal of reducing emissions to 1990 levels by 2020 was comparable to reducing emissions 15 percent below “existing” emissions by 2020 for local governments. Although “existing emission levels” was not formally defined by the Scoping Plan, agencies throughout California have interpreted it as referring to emissions between 2005 and 2008. As a result, Contra Costa County’s GHG emissions reduction strategies used 2005 emissions as the “existing” or baseline level to inform the 2020 goal in the 2015 CAP, which in turn informs the 2030 and 2045 goals in the 2024 CAP. The 2022 update to the Scoping Plan recommends that local governments support statewide efforts to achieve net carbon neutrality. The 2022 Scoping Plan employs a variety of GHG emissions reduction strategies that include direct regulations, alternative compliance mechanisms, incentives, voluntary actions, and market-based approaches like a cap-and-trade program. Carbon neutrality takes it one step further by expanding actions to capture and store carbon, including through natural and working lands and mechanical technologies, while drastically reducing anthropogenic sources of carbon pollution at the same time.4 The 2022 Scoping Plan focuses on the outcomes needed to achieve carbon neutrality statewide by assessing paths for clean technology, energy deployment, natural and working lands, and others. It is designed to meet the State’s long-term climate objectives and support a range of economic, environmental, energy security, environmental justice, and public health priorities. 4 The County’s 2023 Healthy Lands, Healthy People study identifies strategies for using natural and working lands to capture and store carbon. A Sustainable Agricultural Lands Conservation Grant from the State of California funded the study. Page 40CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 2. Climate Action Framework Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 17 The 2022 Scoping Plan identifies strategies that would be most impactful at the local level for ensuring substantial progress towards the State’s carbon neutrality goals. The 2022 Scoping Plan notes, “These areas and strategies are designated as ‘priority’ because they are the GHG emissions reduction opportunities over which local governments have the most authority and that have the highest GHG emissions reduction potential”. This CAP integrates feasible GHG emissions reductions from the 2022 Scoping Plan. CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) requires many proposed development projects to conduct an environmental review that identifies how the project may impact the environment, including changes to GHG emissions. The State CEQA Guidelines include provisions for local governments to use adopted plans for reducing GHG emissions to address the cumulative impacts of individual future projects on GHG emissions (see State CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5(b)(1)). Consistent with the State CEQA Guidelines, lead agencies may use adopted GHG emissions reduction plans, such as a CAP, to assess the cumulative impacts of projects on climate change at a programmatic level. If the adopted plan is consistent with State CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5, the analysis and GHG emissions reduction efforts in the plan may be applied to individual projects, meaning that the projects would not have to conduct separate GHG analyses and project-specific environmental documents may tier from and/or incorporate by reference the existing programmatic review. A project-specific environmental review that relies on this 2024 CAP for its cumulative impact analysis must show consistency with the plan by preparing a Consistency Checklist, identify specific GHG emissions reduction strategies from the 2024 CAP that are applicable to the project, and demonstrate how the project will implement these strategies. Project applicants and County staff will identify which specific strategies are applicable to each project during project review. If applicable strategies are not otherwise binding and enforceable, they must be incorporated as mitigation strategies for the project. Projects that have cumulative impacts on GHG emissions may still need to prepare a separate GHG analysis and environmental review. This 2024 CAP meets the requirements in the State CEQA Guidelines that allow it to be applied to individual projects by: • Quantifying emissions, both existing and projected over a specified period, resulting from activities within a defined geographic area, as discussed in Chapter 3. Page 41CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 2 18 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 • Establishing a level, based on substantial evidence, below which the contribution of emissions from activities covered by the plan would not be cumulatively considerable. Chapter 3 of this 2024 CAP identifies the County’s GHG emissions reduction goals, consistent with the State’s regulatory goals, which are:  Reduce emissions to 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030.  Reduce emissions to 85 percent below 1990 levels by 2045.  Support statewide net carbon neutrality by 2045. • Identifying and analyzing the emissions resulting from specific actions or categories of actions anticipated within the geographic area, as discussed in Chapter 4. • Specifying strategies or a group of strategies, including performance standards that, if implemented on a project-by-project basis, substantial evidence demonstrates they would collectively achieve the specified emissions level, as discussed in Chapters 4 and 5 and Appendix B. • Establishing a mechanism to monitor the plan’s progress toward achieving specific levels and to require amendment if the plan is not achieving those levels, as discussed in Chapter 6. • Including an environmental review of the 2024 CAP. The 2024 CAP is evaluated by the Contra Costa 2045 General Plan Environmental Impact Report. Page 42CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 2. Climate Action Framework Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 19 Regional Climate Action BAY AREA AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT DISTRICT The Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) regulates stationary sources of air pollution in the nine counties that surround San Francisco Bay: Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, southwestern Solano, and southern Sonoma counties. The 24-member Board of Directors that governs BAAQMD includes four representatives from Contra Costa County, including two members of the County Board of Supervisors. BAAQMD’s Clean Air Plan (2017) provides a regional strategy to protect public health and the climate via continued progress toward all State and federal air quality standards, and to eliminate health risk disparities from exposure to air pollution among Bay Area communities. It includes a wide range of control measures designed to decrease emissions of the air pollutants that are most harmful to Bay Area residents, such as particulate matter, ozone, and toxic air contaminants; to reduce emissions of methane and other GHGs that are potent climate pollutants in the near-term; and to decrease emissions of carbon dioxide by reducing fossil fuel combustion. BAAQMD’s Clean Air Plan defines a vision for transitioning the region to the post-carbon economy needed to achieve ambitious GHG emissions reduction goals for 2030 and 2050 and provides a regional climate protection strategy that will put the Bay Area on a pathway to achieve those GHG emissions reduction goals. In addition to fulfilling its role as a regulatory agency, BAAQMD plays a vital role in supporting climate action across the Bay Area. In 2018, BAAQMD provided a Climate Protection Grant Program grant to Contra Costa County that allowed the County, in partnership with the Cities of Antioch, San Pablo, and Walnut Creek, and the community organization Sustainable Contra Costa, to launch the Cleaner Contra Costa Challenge. The Cleaner Contra Costa Challenge is an online platform that allows county residents to take actions in their everyday lives that reduce GHG emissions. BAAQMD has offered funding for public agencies for trip reduction; bicycle parking and bikeways; and clean vehicle projects including electric vehicle charging stations, green fleets, and replacement of off- BAAQMD’s Clean Air Plan defines a vision for transitioning the region to the post-carbon economy needed to achieve ambitious GHG emissions reduction goals for 2030 and 2050 and provides a regional climate protection strategy that will put the Bay Area on a pathway to achieve those GHG emissions reduction goals. Page 43CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 2 20 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 road and heavy-duty vehicles and equipment. BAAQMD’s Climate Tech Finance program provides loans for public agencies looking to invest in green technology and pilot projects. On April 20, 2022, the BAAQMD Board of Directors adopted CEQA Thresholds for Evaluating the Significance of Climate Impacts from Land Use Projects and Plans. The proposed thresholds require that long-range plans, such as the 2024 CAP, must either meet the State’s goals to reduce emissions to 40 percent 1990 levels by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2045 or must be consistent with a local GHG strategy that meets the criteria under State CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5(b). In March 2023, BAAQMD adopted amendments to Regulation 9, Rules 4 and 6. These revisions require that, when existing natural-gas-powered space heaters and water heaters reach the end of their operational life, they be replaced with electric-powered models. These requirements are scheduled to take effect in 2027 to 2031 for water heaters (depending on the capacity of the unit) and in 2029 for space heaters. The 2024 CAP supports BAAQMD’s Clean Air Plan, CEQA Thresholds for Evaluating the Significance of Climate Impacts from Land Use Projects and Plans, and revisions to Regulation 9 as well as many other BAAQMD programs and initiatives aimed to reduce regional GHG emissions. CONTRA COSTA TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY The Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) maintains the Countywide Transportation Plan (CTP). The CTP is updated approximately every five years. CCTA conducts extensive outreach to the public, cities, and the County during the update process. The CTP provides the overall direction for achieving and maintaining a balanced and functional transportation system within Contra Costa County while strengthening links between land use decisions and transportation. It outlines CCTA’s vision for future transportation and establishes goals, policies, strategies, projects, and actions for achieving that vision. The CTP is also the detailed plan which helps inform and direct transportation funding allocated throughout The Countywide Transportation Plan helps support the County’s climate action planning vision by advancing goals to reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMT), increase the use of active transportation modes, promote transit-oriented development, promote advances in vehicle technology, increase transit capacity, and ensure that the transportation system is resilient in the face of climate change. Page 44CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 2. Climate Action Framework Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 21 Contra Costa County. The CTP helps support the County’s climate action planning vision by advancing goals to reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMT), increase the use of active transportation modes, promote transit-oriented development, promote advances in vehicle technology, increase transit capacity, and ensure that the transportation system is resilient in the face of climate change. Implementing these policies will help the County meet its GHG emissions reductions and climate resiliency goals in a way that is consistent with other regional planning efforts. CCTA also oversaw the creation of Contra Costa County’s Electric Vehicle Readiness Blueprint. This document prepares Contra Costa County for the electric vehicle (EV) future by identifying the best locations for charging infrastructure; helping cities to adopt development standards and ordinances that encourage EV adoption; preparing the workforce of the future to maintain EVs and charging infrastructure; and identifying where improvements to the electricity distribution infrastructure are necessary to support electric-ready mobility hubs and zero-emission bus fleets. The Electric Vehicle Readiness Blueprint was adopted in July 2019. The CCTA’s INNOVATE 680 seeks to implement a suite of projects that, when operating together, will address corridor-wide congestion, travel delays, and long-standing operational challenges along Interstate 680 (I-680). INNOVATE 680 projects address part- time transit lanes, express lane completion, shared mobility hubs, mobility on demand, and automated driving systems. For additional detail on the projects implemented as part of INNOVATE 680, see: https://ccta.net/projects/innovate-680/. Climate Action in Contra Costa County Since the early 2000s, Contra Costa County has initiated several efforts to address climate change, including efforts to measure and reduce GHG emissions, prioritize climate change mitigation in local government, and employ natural ecosystems for GHG mitigation. The 2024 CAP, with its emphasis on mitigation, measurement, and resilience and adaptation, is the most recent chapter of the County’s climate change response and mitigation journey. Highlights of the County’s initiatives are shown in Figure 5 and further described in this section. Page 45CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 2 22 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 FIGURE 5. TIMELINE OF CLIMATE ACTION PLANNING IN CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Page 46CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 2. Climate Action Framework Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 23 Over the years, county voters have supported many strategies that improve the quality of life and the environment. In 1990, Contra Costa County voters approved an Urban Limit Line (ULL) for a period of 20 years. The ULL restricts urban development to certain areas of the county and helps to preserve farmland and open space. In 2006 it was adopted for another 20 years from that date. About 47 percent of the land in the county is inside the urban limit lines and urban growth boundaries adopted by the County and the 19 cities in the county. The East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy is a joint exercise of powers authority formed by Contra Costa County and the Cities of Brentwood, Clayton, Oakley, and Pittsburg to implement the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservation Plan / Natural Community Conservation Plan (HCP/NCCP). Formed over a ten-year planning and permitting process, the HCP/NCCP began implementation in 2007. The HCP/NCCP provides a framework to protect natural resources in eastern Contra Costa County while improving and streamlining the environmental permitting process for impacts on endangered species. The HCP/NCCP avoids project-by-project permitting that is generally costly and time consuming for applicants and often results in uncoordinated and biologically ineffective mitigation. The conservation strategy of the HCP/NCCP provides for comprehensive species, wetlands, and ecosystem conservation and contributes to the recovery of listed species in northern California. Over the years, voters have approved funding for the East Bay Regional Park District to maintain and expand its network of regional parks and other facilities in Contra Costa County. This includes Measure FF, a $12/year parcel tax extension of Measure C, which was approved in 2004. The County partners closely with the Contra Costa Resource Conservation District on a range of conservation programs and projects, including habitat preservation, strategies for supporting agriculture, and related topics. Contra Costa began taking significant steps to address climate change in 2005 with the publication of its first Climate Protection Report, which provided an estimate of the County’s GHG emissions, reported existing County efforts to reduce GHG emissions, and listed potential actions that could reduce GHG emissions in the future. In February 2007, the Board of Supervisors directed County staff to prepare a GHG emissions inventory of community-wide and County government operations GHG emissions. In October 2007, the Board of Supervisors adopted a resolution to complete a climate action plan for the County’s municipal facilities and operations funded by the BAAQMD. Page 47CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 2 24 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 In December 2008, the Board of Supervisors adopted a Municipal Climate Action Plan, which established formal GHG emissions reduction goals, GHG emissions reduction strategies, and methods for analysis and monitoring of GHG emissions reduction strategies for emissions from the County’s operations. The County conducted an interim GHG inventory in 2013 to direct priorities toward achieving a goal of reducing the GHG emissions of government operations to 15 percent below 2005 levels by 2020. 2015 CLIMATE ACTION PLAN On December 15, 2015, the Board of Supervisors adopted a Climate Action Plan (2015 CAP) to reduce community-wide GHG emissions in the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County. The 2015 CAP included sections covering the scientific and regulatory environment, an updated GHG inventory and forecast, and a climate change health risk assessment. Strategies in the 2015 CAP addressed GHG emissions reductions, promoting healthy communities, and facilitating CAP implementation. The County created its first full-time sustainability staff position, the Sustainability Coordinator, to oversee implementation of the 2015 CAP. The County Board of Supervisors’ Sustainability Committee and the County Sustainability Commission were created to support implementation of the strategies in the 2015 CAP. Since 2015, the County has implemented a variety of actions to help meet the goals set forth in the 2015 CAP. The County has reduced community-wide emissions associated with electricity use by joining the community choice energy program MCE and promoting the use of MCE’s Deep Green and Local Sol products, which allow residents and businesses to purchase 100 percent renewable electricity and 100 percent locally produced solar, respectively. This also includes promoting energy efficiency incentive programs offered within the County by MCE, the Bay Area Regional Energy Network, and others. County facilities that do not have solar panels subscribe to MCE’s Deep Green product. In 2018, through a grant from the Strategic Growth Council, the County developed a Renewable Resource Potential Study that identifies the potential to generate clean energy in Contra Costa County. Among other things, the study found significant opportunity for The cover of the County’s 2015 Climate Action Plan. Page 48CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 2. Climate Action Framework Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 25 solar energy, both on existing rooftops and parking lots in developed areas, and on undeveloped “greenfield” parcels in rural areas. In 2020, the County adopted a solar overlay zone to allow commercial solar energy facilities in certain areas, including commercial, industrial, and some agriculturally zoned parcels that are not prime agricultural land. Since 2015, the County has adopted and is implementing policies for complete streets and Vision Zero and adopted an Active Transportation Plan. The County is constantly seeking funding to implement these policies. BOARD SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE The County Board of Supervisors’ Sustainability Committee oversees implementation of the CAP. The Sustainability Committee has played a role in several sustainability initiatives, including promoting the installation of EV charging stations in County facilities and converting the County fleet to all-electric, tracking the development of environmental justice goals and initiatives, promoting energy use management and efficiency programs, reviewing environmental justice and sustainability themes in the ongoing update to the General Plan, and raising awareness about climate change among residents and County officials. COUNTY SUSTAINABILITY COMMISSION In 2017, the County Board of Supervisors established the Sustainability Commission, a citizen advisory body, that advises County staff and the Board of Supervisors on the successful implementation of the CAP, including suggestions on how the work can be performed more efficiently and effectively; opportunities to realize equity and fairness across the diverse communities of Contra Costa County in sustainability programs that support the CAP; and provide suggestions on how to better engage residents and businesses on sustainability issues and implementation of the CAP. The Sustainability Commission has addressed topics in the sectors of energy use and green buildings; transportation; water conservation; solid waste; and climate adaptation, resilience, and environmental justice. Page 49CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 2 26 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 The Sustainability Commission, which reports to the Board Sustainability Committee, has addressed topics in the sectors of energy use and green buildings; transportation; water conservation; solid waste; and climate adaptation, resilience, and justice. In addition to supporting preparation of the 2024 CAP, the Sustainability Commission has advised on implementation of the 2015 CAP, Climate Emergency Resolution, and Electric Vehicle Readiness Blueprint, which promote climate resilience, plan for a Just Transition of oil refineries on the Contra Costa County shoreline, examine how to transition to all-electric and carbon-neutral buildings materials, and provide outreach and education on sustainability to Contra Costa County residents and businesses. TRANSPORTATION ANALYSIS GUIDELINES In June 2020, the County adopted the Contra Costa Transportation Guidelines. These guidelines are intended to establish a uniform approach, methodology, and tool set to evaluate the impacts of land use decisions and related transportation projects on the County transportation system. The guidelines use VMT to assess impacts to the transportation system and require the development of mitigation measures to offset traffic impacts that are found to have exceeded CEQA’s identified threshold(s) of significance. COUNTY REACH CODES The County has adopted building and energy provisions that go beyond the State’s building and energy codes. These amendments to the State codes are commonly called “reach codes”. East Bay Energy Watch The East Bay Energy Watch (EBEW) was a partnership between PG&E and local governments in the East Bay region, including Contra Costa County. EBEW provided support for member agencies to conduct energy efficiency outreach to residents and businesses, retrofit existing government facilities to improve energy efficiency, and provide training to agency staff. EBEW also prepared a series of GHG inventories and provided GHG emission tracking for all member jurisdictions. The GHG inventories presented in Chapter 3 of the 2024 CAP are based on the inventories EBEW prepared. EBEW ceased operations in 2020 when PG&E elected not to renew the organization’s funding, although similar partnerships remain active in other parts of California. Page 50CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 2. Climate Action Framework Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 27 Section 74-4.006 of the Contra Costa County Code of Ordinances, adopted in 2015, amends the California Green Building Standards Code by setting requirements for installation of EV charging stations at new multifamily and nonresidential construction. For most new multifamily dwellings, if residential parking is provided, 10 percent of the total number of parking spaces at the dwelling site are required to be EV spaces. Half of the EV spaces, but not less than one, must be equipped with fully operational electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE). The remaining EV spaces are required to be capable of supporting future EVSE. New nonresidential construction is required to provide EV spaces in accordance with the amount of available parking. On January 18, 2022, the County Board of Supervisors adopted Ordinance 2022-02, an All- Electric (New Construction) Ordinance, to amend the 2019 California Energy Code to require the following building types to be all-electric: residential (including single-family and multifamily buildings), detached accessory dwelling units, hotel, office, and retail. In November 2022, the County Board of Supervisors adopted Ordinance 2022-35, which adopts and amends, among others, the 2022 California Building Code. Amendments include revisions to Section 420.14 to expand requirements for the installation of EV charging infrastructure at newly constructed nonresidential and multifamily residential buildings. It also carries forward the all-electric requirements first adopted in Ordinance 2022-02. CLIMATE EMERGENCY RESOLUTION On September 22, 2020, the Board of Supervisors adopted Resolution No. 2020/256,2 declaring that climate change “threatens the long-term economic and social well-being, health, safety, and security of the County, and that urgent action by all levels of government is needed to immediately address this climate emergency”. The resolution prioritizes the urgent implementation of the County’s 2024 CAP to achieve GHG emissions reductions and to consider equity and social justice issues in the implementation of the plan, and directs that health, socioeconomic, and racial equity considerations be included in policymaking and climate solutions at all levels. The Climate Emergency Resolution also calls for establishing an ongoing task force of County department heads to focus on implementing the 2024 CAP, planning for a Just Transition away from an economy based on fossil fuels, and adopting an all-electric ordinance for new construction. Page 51CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 2 28 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 INTERDEPARTMENTAL CLIMATE ACTION TASK FORCE When the Board of Supervisors declared a climate emergency in 2020, one of the actions identified to address the emergency was the creation of an Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force that includes all department heads or their senior deputies. The task force is directed to focus on urgently implementing the CAP and to identify additional actions, policies, and programs the County can undertake to reduce and adapt to the impacts of a changing climate. The task force is directed to report to the Board of Supervisors twice a year. The first of these reports, released in March 2021, recommended that the Board establish a Sustainability Fund to support improvements to County facilities and operations that reduce GHG emissions. The Board of Supervisors has directed the Department of Public Works to manage the fund, including the identification and implementation of projects and tracking savings, with the task force serving as an advisory committee to the fund. The Sustainability Committee recommended that the initial focus of the fund be used to install the first tranche of electric vehicle charging stations, an ongoing priority. The task force has also worked on scaling and implementing Green Business Program best practices in each of the County departments. Most County departments have nominated volunteers for the Green Government Group (G3) Champion program. The G3 Champions meet every other month to learn about different topics and take action to educate their colleagues and implement change. ENVISION CONTRA COSTA Every county and incorporated community in California is required to adopt and occasionally update a document called a general plan, which is a comprehensive and long- range plan for the jurisdiction’s land use policies and related matters for how communities The Task Force is directed to focus on urgently implementing the County's Climate Action Plan and to identify additional actions, policies, and programs the County can undertake to reduce and adapt to the impacts of a changing climate. The Green Government Group logo. Page 52CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 2. Climate Action Framework Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 29 will grow and develop. State law requires that each general plan includes the following topics: • Land use • Circulation • Housing • Conservation • Open space • Noise • Safety • Environmental justice (for communities that meet criteria) The County’s process to update its current General Plan, is referred to as Envision Contra Costa. Envision Contra Costa began in late 2018 and included the 2045 General Plan, a zoning code update, and this 2024 CAP. The 2045 General Plan and the 2024 CAP are organized around four specific topics: environmental justice, sustainability, community health, and economic development. HEALTHY LANDS, HEALTHY PEOPLE CARBON SEQUESTRATION STUDY In 2021, the County began a feasibility study—Healthy Lands, Healthy People—to identify strategies for storing carbon in the diverse land uses in Contra Costa County. The County received a Sustainable Agricultural Lands Conservation grant from the State that funded the project. The County partnered with the Contra Costa Resource Conservation District, the University of California Cooperative Extension, and a consultant team to develop Healthy Lands, Healthy People. The study, completed in 2023, will inform next steps to increase investments in trees, gardens, agricultural practices, and other activities that can use natural and working lands to address climate change. COMMUNITY-LEVEL ACTION Just as climate change touches on all aspects of community life in Contra Costa County, all community members can take personal and collective action to reduce GHG emissions and advance resilience. Many community organizations, businesses, and individuals have already acted. The 2024 CAP builds on these initiatives while engaging all members of the Contra Costa County community in climate action. Page 53CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 2 30 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 In 2018, the County partnered with the cities of Antioch, San Pablo, and Walnut Creek and Sustainable Contra Costa to launch the Cleaner Contra Costa Challenge. A Climate Protection grant from the Bay Area Air Quality Management District provided funds to build an online platform tailored to Contra Costa communities that allows residents to take actions to create a cleaner, healthier place to live, work, and play. The two-year grant provided an opportunity to pilot the program before launching it more widely. Sustainable Contra Costa now operates the program across the county. Page 54CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION PLAN Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 31 3. CLIMATE CHANGES AND GHGS 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Climate Science WHAT IS CLIMATE CHANGE? Climate is the long-term average of weather conditions, such as temperature and precipitation. It is normal for Earth’s climate system to experience long-term shifts, but human activity is causing global climate change at a much more rapid pace than in the past. Human-caused climate change is largely attributable to the burning of fossil fuels, which causes gases called GHGs to build up in the atmosphere and trap heat close to the Earth’s surface, a phenomenon known as the greenhouse effect. Most GHGs are naturally occurring gases, such as water vapor, carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O), that absorb heat radiated from the Earth’s surface. Some GHGs can persist in the atmosphere and trap heat for thousands of years once they are emitted. Human-caused climate change is largely attributable to the burning of fossil fuels. 011 Page 55CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #011 Posted by Katherine Chen on 04/08/2024 at 4:52pm [Comment ID: 64] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 GHG is short for greenhouse gases, which I think can be helpful to state directly in this sentence. Page 56CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 3 32 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 As the levels of GHGs in the atmosphere increase because of human activity, more heat is trapped, increasing the temperature of the Earth’s surface at an unprecedented rate. Because Earth’s climate system is driven by the movement of heat in the atmosphere and in the oceans, more heat creates shifts in the global climate system, causing climate change. The effects of climate change vary in different geographic locations, and often include significant changes to temperatures, precipitation patterns, and storm activity. EFFECTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE Globally, the effects of human-caused climate change have been observed as: • Increases in global surface temperatures. • Increases in precipitation over land and increases in storm intensity. • Retreat of glaciers. • Ocean acidification. • Warming of the global upper ocean. • Increase in global mean sea level.3 Extreme heat days have become more frequent and more intense across most land regions since the 1950s, and extreme cold events have become less frequent. The frequency and intensity of heavy precipitation events have increased since the 1950s over most land areas, and drought has become more frequent in some areas due to increased evapotranspiration (water evaporation from land to sky). CLIMATE CHANGE IN CALIFORNIA In California and western North America, observations of the climate have shown: (1) a trend toward warmer temperatures with an increase in extremely hot days and nights; (2) an increase in the area burned by wildfires; (3) a smaller fraction of precipitation falling as snow; (4) an increase in frequency of drought and an increase in consecutive dry years; and (5) sea level rise is expected to continue to increase flooding and erosion on beaches, bluffs, and cliffs.4 Research suggests that California will continue to experience hotter and Human-induced climate change is already affecting many weather and climate extremes in every region across the globe. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s (IPCC) Sixth Assessment Report, global warming of 1.5°C and 2°C will be exceeded during the 21st century unless we make great reductions in CO2 and other greenhouse gas emissions in the coming decades. Page 57CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 33 drier conditions, reductions in winter snow and increases in winter rains, sea level rise, significant changes to the water cycle, and an increase in extreme weather events. These changes in climate will affect economic systems throughout California, including Contra Costa County. To refrain from action is costly and risky; the California Fourth Climate Change Assessment estimates that taking no action to address the potential impacts of climate change will lead to economic losses of “tens of billions of dollars per year in direct costs” and “expose trillions of dollars of assets to collateral risk”. Table 2 summarizes potential impacts in California due to climate change. TABLE 2. CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACTS IN CALIFORNIA CLIMATE IMPACT HISTORICAL TRENDS FUTURE DIRECTION OF CHANGE CONFIDENCE FOR FUTURE CHANGE Temperature Warming Warming Very High Sea Level Rise Rising Rising Very High Snowpack Declining Declining Very High Annual Precipitation No significant trends Unknown Low Intensity of Heavy Precipitation Events No significant trends Increasing Medium-High Frequency of Droughts No significant trends Increasing Medium-High Marine Layer Clouds Some downward trends Unknown Low Acres Burned by Wildfire Increasing Increasing Medium-High Source: Louise Bedsworth et al., “Statewide Summary Report”, in California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment, publication no. SUMCCCA4-2018-013, 2018. CLIMATE CHANGE IN CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Climate change is expected to alter many aspects of the county’s climate, including temperature, precipitation patterns, and sea levels, potentially exacerbating both the severity and geographic scope of climate hazards. Contra Costa County is most vulnerable to hazards associated with pests and diseases, changes in air quality, drought, extreme heat, flooding, fog, human health hazards, landslides and debris flows, severe storms, sea level rise, shoreline flooding, and wildfire. These climate stressors are described in the following paragraphs. Page 58CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 3 34 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Agricultural Pests and Diseases The farms and ranches of Contra Costa County face risks from assorted pests and diseases that may affect crop plants, trees, and livestock. These pests and diseases can reduce or delay plant and animal growth, inflict such damage that agricultural products are less appealing and harder to sell, or cause plant or animal death. To manage greater pest and disease pressure, farmers may also need to increase pesticide applications. Many pests and organisms that carry diseases are most active during warmer months, so the threat of infection or infestation is usually higher during these months. As the climate changes, temperatures are expected to get warmer earlier in the year and remain warmer until later in the year, creating a wider window for agricultural and urban pests and diseases to be active. Both evergreen and oak woodlands in the county can be damaged by forestry pests and diseases, such as Sudden Oak Death and redwood bark beetles. These diseases severely harm ecosystems, including both woodlands and the animals that depend on them to provide habitat and foraging, such as coyote, gray fox, barn owl, red-tailed hawk, and Cooper's hawk. Air Quality The primary determinants of air quality in Contra Costa County are ozone pollution from vehicle exhaust, particulate matter from industrial centers and diesel trucks, and allergen distribution. Higher temperatures can increase surface ozone concentrations, and increased water vapor can trap ozone in already-polluted areas. Ground-level ozone is associated with a variety of negative health outcomes, including reduced lung function, pneumonia, asthma, cardiovascular diseases, and premature death. Ozone concentrations are projected to increase in most places that already experience high ozone levels, such as eastern Contra Costa County. Nunn Vineyard. Photo credit: Stan Muraoka. Page 59CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 35 Drought A drought happens when conditions are drier than normal for an extended period, making less water available for people (especially if local water supply depends on surface water), agricultural uses, and ecosystems. Communities in Contra Costa County may experience water shortages during drought conditions and mandatory water restrictions for domestic and agricultural uses. Farmers may need to cut back on irrigation, and ranchers may need to reduce the number of their livestock. Farmers may also be forced to plant varieties that are more drought tolerant or alter the timing and location of fields to ensure that irrigation water is available at critical times. Land may be left fallow if irrigation water is not available, which may increase the pressure to develop prime agricultural land. Less precipitation could lower water levels, decrease water quality, and raise water temperatures at streams and lakes. These conditions can cause algal blooms in Delta areas and harm salmonid populations and other aquatic species, such as the California red- legged frog and western pond turtle. Droughts are a regular occurrence in California; however, scientists expect that climate change will lead to more frequent and more intense droughts statewide. Extreme Heat Contra Costa County has different thresholds for extreme heat in different parts of the county. An extreme heat day is where temperatures reach 94 degrees in Rodeo, 99 degrees in Alamo, and 102 degrees in Knightsen. Extreme heat temperatures for the western part of the county are lower, but any higher-than-usual temperature can be harmful to people and assets that are not accustomed to it. Historically, Contra Costa County has experienced an average of four extreme heat days a year. This number is expected to increase dramatically because of climate change, as illustrated in Figure 6. By the middle of the 21st century (2040 to 2070), Contra Costa County is likely to have an average of 15 to 20 extreme heat days per year. By the end of the century, the county is projected to experience an average of 21 to 37 extreme heat days per year. Page 60CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 3 36 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 FIGURE 6. FREQUENCY AND PROJECTION OF EXTREME HEAT DAYS IN CONCORD AND RICHMOND Source: Cal-Adapt. https://cal-adapt.org/. Historical data is available through 2020. Extreme heat can cause heat-related illnesses, such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. High temperatures can harm animals and plants that are not adapted to them. Some types of infrastructure, including power lines and roadways, experience greater stresses during high temperatures, making failure more likely. People are less likely to venture outside in very high temperatures, hurting economic sectors that depend on outdoor activities. Extreme heat can also increase the risk of wildfires by drying out plant material, and prolonged high temperatures contribute to drought conditions. An example of health inequity tied to climate change is that Black Americans have been found to be at a higher risk of illness and death from heat. However, there is no biological basis for this. Instead, this finding has been linked to social factors such as poverty, neighborhood conditions, access to air conditioning, and vehicle ownership. These factors are also associated with higher rates of chronic health conditions among the Black community, including cardiovascular disease and hypertension. Long-standing patterns of racial residential segregation and institutional racism mean that Black individuals disproportionately live in high-poverty, disinvested neighborhoods, regardless of income. The Contra Costa County communities with the highest proportions of Black residents are 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 1950195619621968197419801986199219982004201020162022202820342040204620522058206420702076208220882094Number of DaysYears Concord Richmond Historical Future Page 61CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 37 the unincorporated community of North Richmond and the cities of Antioch, Pittsburg, and Richmond. Analysis conducted as part of the 2015 Contra Costa County Health heat vulnerability assessment determined that the neighborhoods most vulnerable to heat are Bethel Island, East County, the Monument Corridor in Concord, the Rossmoor Area in Walnut Creek, and West County. These results are found in summary of the assessment, 2015 Climate Change Vulnerability in Contra Costa County: A Focus on Heat.5 Extreme weather may also lower water quality and cause water temperatures to rise, which can lead to algal blooms and declines in aquatic populations. Native fish species may have a more difficult time surviving in warmer waters and non-native species may out-compete native species. Flooding Flooding happens when there is too much water in inland areas to be held in local bodies, carried away by drains or creeks, or soaked into the soil. This water can build up and wash into normally dry areas and significantly harm buildings, people, and habitats. Floodwaters can be deep enough to drown people and may move fast enough to carry away people, cars, or even homes. Floodwaters can carry contaminants into communities, impacting public health, ecosystem health, and water quality. Floods can be caused by heavy rainfall, extended periods of moderate rainfall, or Air Conditioning Air conditioner ownership helps protect against extreme heat events. However, while air conditioners allow households to adapt to extreme heat, increased household air conditioning could strain energy capacity and counter mitigation goals by leading to greenhouse gas emissions. Identifying areas where few households have air conditioners is important to ensure that these communities are adequately served by cooling centers. Low-income households are less likely to have or use air conditioning, and a lack of air conditioning may be one of the drivers of racial inequalities in morbidity and mortality during heat waves. Within Contra Costa County, households in historically cooler areas and areas with older housing stock are less likely to have home air conditioning. All-electric heat pumps can provide both air conditioning and heating services, reducing the need for natural gas service, and helping to address this inequity. 012 Page 62CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #012 Posted by im McMahon on 12/14/2023 at 1:50pm [Comment ID: 14] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 Electrification with high efficiency equipment, including heat pumps, will minimize power supply requirements and energy bills. Page 63CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 3 38 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 clogged drains during periods of rainfall. Flash floods can be especially dangerous because they happen so fast that they give little or no warning. Although climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of droughts, scientists also project that it will increase the frequency and intensity of heavy rain and associated floods in Contra Costa County. Fog Fog is a very low cloud, usually low enough to touch the ground. It forms when air near the surface reaches the right temperature to form water vapor, which condenses into a cloud. In Contra Costa County, fog usually forms in two areas—western Contra Costa County along the bayfront and eastern Contra Costa County as part of the Central Valley. Western Contra Costa County experiences coastal fog that flows in from the Pacific Ocean. Eastern Contra Costa experiences tule fog, which usually forms after heavy rain between late autumn and early spring in the Central Valley. The cool air brought in by fog is necessary for the productivity of agriculture in the region and the growth of many tree- dominated habitats on the hillsides of Contra Costa County. The impacts of climate change on fog are less clear. There has been close to a 50 percent reduction in tule fog in California’s Central Valley since the 1980s. Coastal fog is projected to decline by 12 to 20 percent between 1900 and 2070. Climate scientists believe that the warmer temperatures created by climate change make it harder for the air to become cool enough to create fog, and warmer temperatures are more likely to evaporate any fog that does form. In agriculture, many varieties of fruit and nut trees require winter chill (measured as a number of chill hours) for high fruit and nut quality and yield. Research has shown that the warmer air that is replacing seasonal fog decreases the number of these important chill hours. This reduces the yield and quality of the cherries, almonds, walnuts, and other stone fruit that are grown in Contra Costa County. Redwoods depend on the coastal fog for water in the summer months. The absence of coastal fog may cause higher evapotranspiration rates and increase the demand for water in woodland ecosystems during the drier summer months. The cool air brought in by fog is necessary for the productivity of agriculture in the region and the growth of many tree-dominated habitats on the hillsides of Contra Costa County. 013 Page 64CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #013 Posted by Dennis Baldocchi on 02/14/2024 at 7:19pm [Comment ID: 38] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 I did the original research on this topic. Glad to see this discussed here as it may affect the fruits and nuts we grow. Datasets have expanded since the original study if you want or need more information Page 65CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 39 Human Health Hazards There are several diseases that are linked to climate change and can be harmful to the health of Contra Costa County community members. Examples of these diseases include hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, Lyme disease, and West Nile virus, which can be debilitating or fatal for some of the population. These diseases are carried by animals such as mice and rats, ticks, and mosquitos. Climate change can increase the rate of infection because, with warmer temperatures earlier in the spring and later in the winter, these animals can be active for longer, widening the window for disease transmission. Warmer temperatures and more intense rainfall can lead to larger populations of animals such as mosquitos, rodents, and ticks, increasing the risk of contracting diseases carried by these animals. Landslides and Debris Flows Landslides occur when a slope, such as the side of a hill or mountain, becomes unstable, causing soil and rocks to slide down the slope. Landslides are most common on steep slopes made up of loose soil and other materials and are often triggered by precipitation. The types of landslides caused by precipitation are typically debris flows (a landslide made of a wet mix of rock, soil, and other materials) and mudflows (or mudslides, which are primarily made of wet soil). Because they are so fluid, debris flows and mudflows can flow for long distances past the base of the slope and affect large areas. Landslides can damage or destroy buildings and infrastructure, block roadways, disrupt sensitive ecosystems, and injure or kill people in their path. Climate change does not directly cause more frequent or intense landslides. However, it is expected to increase the conditions that can lead to landslides, such as an increase in heavy storms that saturate the ground and make a landslide more likely. These events can cause significant damage to important infrastructure in Contra Costa County, as happened during the Morgan Territory landslide in 2017. After large storm events in January and February of that year, the resulting landslide snapped a water main and collapsed a section of Morgan Territory Road, leaving homes without water for a week and closing the road for months. Wildfires also increase the likelihood of a landslide by removing vegetation that supports slopes and slows down water. Wildfires can alter soil conditions, increasing erosion and water runoff, further exacerbating slope instability. Because climate change is projected to increase wildfire activity, it is possible that this could also increase the size and/or intensity of future landslides. Page 66CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 3 40 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Severe Storms Severe storms include strong winds, hail, and lightning. Severe weather is usually caused by intense storm systems, although some types of strong winds can occur without a storm. Hail can damage buildings and plants (and in extreme cases, injure people), and lightning can spark fires, injure people, or cause fatalities. There have been no reported damage or injuries from lightning in Contra Costa County, although hail up to 0.75 inches in diameter fell in portions of Contra Costa County in April of 1983. Severe winds, such as the Diablo Winds that blow in northern California in the spring and fall, can damage or destroy buildings, knock over trees, and damage power lines and electrical equipment (potentially causing wildfires). In some cases, strong winds can reach between 40 and 80 miles per hour, causing trees to fall and damage power lines. Strong winds are the most common type of severe weather in Contra Costa County. In winter 2023, a series of severe storms triggered high wind, flooding, and freeze warnings across the county. Felled trees and debris caused power outages, the cold temperatures caused delays on BART, and slick roads made driving more dangerous.6 The connection between climate change and severe storms is not as well established as other weather events, but new evidence suggests that severe storms may happen more often and more intensely than in the past. Climate change may affect strong winds that are not associated with intense storms, but scientists are not clear on how these wind patterns might change. Sea Level Rise As global temperatures rise, glaciers and other land ice near the north and south poles melts. The water flows into the ocean, increasing sea levels across the globe. Higher temperatures also cause water to expand in oceans, further raising sea levels. Eventually, sea levels may increase enough to permanently flood low-lying areas near the Bay shoreline and Delta areas. Sea level rise threatens buildings, infrastructure, and ecosystems that may be temporarily or permanently flooded by water in the shoreline areas and Delta of Contra Costa County. In California, sea levels may increase in most places by 6 to 10 inches by 2030, 13 to 23 inches by 2050, and 41 to 83 inches by 2100, relative to the average sea levels between 1991 and 2009. However, it is possible that sea level may increase faster than these projections. Page 67CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 41 Structures built above the increased sea level can still be harmed if the higher level of the water erodes away the rock or soil supporting the structure, potentially making it unsafe and at risk of collapse. Sea level rise can also promote saltwater intrusion into the Delta aquatic systems and groundwater basins, which would negatively affect water quality and aquatic habitats. Aquatic habitats may be harmed if industrial or oil facilities are inundated, as hazardous materials could be released into the soils and water. Shoreline Flooding Rising sea levels mean that shoreline floods can become more severe and more frequent along shoreline communities and areas in the Delta. Because the ocean is at a higher level during new normal conditions, shoreline floods such as king tides can reach further onto land. Higher sea levels can also give a “boost” to smaller floods that would not have been large enough to flood dry land during past normal conditions, making shoreline flooding more frequent. During strong storms and king tides, shoreline flooding can damage or destroy buildings in low- lying areas, disrupt transportation routes, and harm important economic assets such as the oil refineries and the Delta. The communities facing the greatest risk in the unincorporated areas of the county are North Richmond, Rodeo, Crockett, Bay Point, Bethel Island, and Discovery Bay. Shoreline flooding could also damage water infrastructure and interrupt regional and statewide water services. Wildfire Wildfires are a regular feature of the landscape in much of California. Winter rains support plant growth, and the summer dry season dries out vegetation, increasing the potential for ignition during the late summer and fall when temperatures are high. Wildfires are defined as fires burning Fire activity is projected to increase where development expands in the wildland-urban interface, in addition to the dry hills around the Mount Diablo region in Contra Costa County. Shoreline facilities, such as this marina, are at particular risk from shoreline flooding. Photo credit: Lisa Gorrell. Page 68CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 3 42 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 in natural areas, but they can easily spread into the developed areas between urban and wildland zones, known as the wildland-urban interface. Large sections of Contra Costa County are considered to be high or very high fire hazard severity zones by CAL FIRE. This exposes people and property to the flames, increasing the risk of injury, death, and property damage or destruction. The smoke and ash from wildfires can increase air and water pollution levels and create a significant health risk in the region, particularly under weather conditions that prevent smoke from clearing, as happened during the Camp Fire in Butte County in Northern California (2018) and LNU Lightning Complex Fire in Northern California wine country areas (2020). Local ecosystems can be harmed by wildfire. Chaparral and scrub ecosystems are in high fire hazard severity zone areas. Although wildfires naturally occur in chaparral ecosystems, fires more than every 20 years can reduce the biodiversity of chaparral habitat and cause the ecosystem to convert to a grassland or scrub habitat. Riparian ecosystems can be harmed by wildfires due to loss of canopy and changes in soil structure, erosion, and shifts in specific composition due to changes in habitat structure. Large fires can cause widespread devastation throughout woodland areas in Contra Costa, particularly if trees have been weakened or killed by drought, extreme heat, or pest infestation. Climate change is expected to lead to an increase in wildfires throughout California. Warmer temperatures, an increase in drought conditions, and forestry pests and diseases are likely to create more fuel in State and federal wildlands and a greater chance that a spark will grow into a potentially dangerous blaze. Excessive heat and dry conditions have already contributed to the rapid spread of wildfires in Contra Costa County during events such as the 3,700-acre Morgan Fire on Mount Diablo (2013); the 396,624-acre SCU Lightning Complex fires (2020), which impacted six counties; and the Franklin Fire (2022). Climate change is also expected to extend the fire season throughout much (or even all) of the year. Because wildfires burn the trees and other vegetation that help stabilize a hillside and absorb water, increases in fire activity may also lead to an increase in landslides and floods. Page 69CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 43 GHG Inventory and Forecast INTRODUCTION A GHG inventory is an accounting of the GHG emissions attributable to a particular community over the course of a specific year. A GHG forecast takes information from the GHG inventory as well as predictions of future demographic trends and the projected impacts of climate-related legislation to predict future levels of GHG emissions. GHG emissions are generated by various activities that are commonplace in daily life, such as driving, electricity use, and water use. Some daily activities release GHG emissions in the location of the activity, such as gases released any time an internal combustion engine is operated. Other activities cause GHG emissions to be released elsewhere, such as using nonrenewable or non-carbon-free electricity to power a home, which generates GHG emissions in the location of the power plant that supplies the power, not in the home itself. Therefore, Contra Costa County must consider all GHG emissions caused by activities attributed to the unincorporated community, including GHG emissions generated both inside and outside the County’s jurisdictional boundaries. The County has two types of GHG inventories: (1) community-wide inventories and (2) County operations inventories. • A community-wide GHG inventory identifies GHG emissions that result from activities of unincorporated Contra Costa County residents, employees, visitors, and other community members. Examples include GHG emissions from residents driving cars, homes using water, and businesses using electricity. The community-wide GHG inventory presented for the unincorporated county is a production-based inventory, which means that it assesses the GHG emissions produced by activities occurring in the community. • A County operations GHG inventory summarizes emissions that are a direct result of Contra Costa County’s government operations. Examples include GHG emissions from electricity and water used in County buildings or the fuel used for County vehicles. Determining the annual level of GHG emissions will aid the County in establishing an attainable goal for continually reducing emissions. Furthermore, knowing which activities release GHG emissions allows the County to develop policies and programs that facilitate a decrease in emissions for each activity. 014 Page 70CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #014 Posted by Dennis Baldocchi on 02/14/2024 at 7:23pm [Comment ID: 39] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 To offset carbon emissions, wetlands have been restored in eastContra Costa at Dutch Slough. We are measuring their carbon sequestration rates. They are strong sinks, but do produce methane. Restoring more wetlands in Contra Costa can have positive benefits Page 71CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 3 44 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 The project team prepared the new GHG inventories and updates to past GHG inventories consistent with the guidance in widely adopted, standard protocol documents. These protocols provide guidance on what activities should be evaluated in the GHG inventories and how emissions from those activities should be assessed. Using standard methods also allows for an easy comparison of GHG emission levels across multiple years and communities. The methods used to create these inventories are described in Appendix B. Determining the annual level of GHG emissions will aid the County in establishing an attainable goal for continually reducing emissions. Furthermore, knowing which activities release GHG emissions allows the County to develop policies and programs that facilitate a decrease in emissions for each activity. GHG Inventory The following sections present the results of the community-wide and County operations GHG inventories for the years 2005, 2013, 2017, and 2019. COMMUNITY INVENTORY The community-wide GHG inventory assessed GHG emissions from the following 11 categories of activities, known as sectors. • Transportation is GHG emissions created by driving on-road vehicles in the unincorporated county, including passenger and freight vehicles. • Residential energy is GHG emissions attributed to the use of electricity, natural gas, and other home heating fuels in residential buildings. • Solid waste is the GHG emissions released from trash collected in the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County, as well as collective annual emissions from waste already in place at the Acme, Keller Canyon, and West Contra Costa Landfills. • Nonresidential energy is GHG emissions attributed to the use of electricity and natural gas in nonresidential buildings. Total community-wide emissions declined 18 percent from 2005 to 2019. Page 72CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 45 • Agriculture is GHG emissions from various agricultural activities in the unincorporated county, including agricultural equipment, crop cultivation and harvesting, and livestock operations. • Off-road equipment is GHG emissions from equipment that does not provide on-road transportation (excluding agricultural equipment), such as tractors for construction or equipment used for landscape maintenance. • Water and wastewater accounts for the electricity used to transport and process water and wastewater used or generated by unincorporated county residents and businesses, as well as direct emissions resulting from wastewater treatment activities. • Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) is GHG emissions associated with the operation of BART for unincorporated county residents. • Land use and sequestration is GHG emissions absorbed and stored in trees and soils on locally controlled lands as part of healthy ecosystems and released into the atmosphere from development of previously undeveloped land. • Stationary sources are emissions from fuel use at major industrial facilities, permitted by State and regional air quality authorities. These emissions are informational and are not counted as part of the community total. • Wildfire includes emissions released as a result of wildfires. These emissions are informational and are not counted as part of the community total. The community-wide emissions inventory also records emissions released via wildfire and stationary sources such as oil refineries. These emissions are reported for informational purposes but are not formally counted as part of the unincorporated county’s GHG emissions. Page 73CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 3 46 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Table 3 and Figure 7 show the community-wide GHG emissions for the unincorporated county during the four inventory years. Total community-wide emissions declined 18 percent from 2005 to 2019. Table 4 shows the proportion of GHG emissions from each sector for the unincorporated county for the four inventory years. TABLE 3. ABSOLUTE ANNUAL GHG EMISSIONS, 2005 TO 2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005–2019 Transportation (excluding BART) 628,200 651,130 571,650 464,040 -26% Residential energy 294,930 280,870 212,420 191,780 -35% Nonresidential energy 118,740 125,350 98,850* 159,520 34% Solid waste 243,940 224,570 223,100 220,760 -10% Agriculture 33,350 39,300 44,880 36,130 8% Off-road equipment 34,160 36,290 42,840 54,010 58% Water and wastewater 8,080 7,400 4,400 4,870 -40% BART 1,040 1,320 1,440 190 -82% Land use and sequestration -70,860 -70,860 -70,860 -70,860 0% Total Annual MTCO2e 1,291,580 1,295,370 1,128,720 1,060,440 -18% Informational Items Stationary sources 13,983,030 11,956,000 11,232,290 10,867,670 -22% Wildfire 14,270 66,080 0** 10,100 N/A*** Note: All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. * Estimates of nonresidential electricity use in 2013 are used in 2017 to account for a lack of available data in 2017. * No wildfires were recorded in the unincorporated county in 2017. ** Overall change between 2005 and 2019 for wildfire is not calculated because of the high degree of year- to-year variability. 015 Page 74CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #015 Posted by Salli Elivati on 03/31/2024 at 6:50pm [Comment ID: 49] - Link Question Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 Why is a 58% increase in off road equipment when other areas increased at lower rates or decreased? Page 75CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 47 FIGURE 7. ABSOLUTE ANNUAL GHG EMISSIONS BY SECTOR, 2005 TO 2019 TABLE 4. PROPORTION OF GHG EMISSIONS, 2005 TO 2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 Transportation 49% 50% 53% 46% Residential energy 23% 22% 20% 19% Solid waste 19% 17% 21% 22% Nonresidential energy 9% 10% 5% 11% Agriculture 3% 3% 4% 4% Off-road equipment 3% 3% 4% 5% Water and wastewater 1% 1% Less than 1% Less than 1% BART Less than 1% Less than 1% Less than 1% Less than 1% Land use and sequestration -5% -5% -7% -7% Total Annual MTCO2e 100% 100% 100% 100% Note: Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. -200,000 0 200,000 400,000 600,000 800,000 1,000,000 1,200,000 1,400,000 1,600,000 2005 2013 2017 2019GHG emissions (MTCO2e)Transportation Residential energy Nonresidential energy Solid waste Agriculture Off-road eqiupment Water and wastewater BART Land use and sequestration Page 76CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 3 48 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 The transportation sector has consistently been the largest source of GHG emissions in the unincorporated county, accounting for between 46 and 53 percent of total community- wide GHG emissions (excluding informational items). Residential energy and solid waste are the second- and third-largest sources of GHG emissions, followed by nonresidential energy. Agriculture GHG emissions account for between 3 and 4 percent, and off-road equipment accounts for between 3 and 5 percent. GHG emissions from the water and wastewater and BART sectors are each 1 percent or less. The sectors that experienced the largest decrease in annual GHG emissions between 2005 and 2019 were BART (82 percent), water and wastewater (40 percent), residential energy (35 percent), and transportation (26 percent). Emissions reductions also occurred in the solid waste sector (10 percent) and the nonresidential energy sector (8 percent). These changes are primarily due to an increase in renewable and carbon-free electricity and better resource-efficiency practices by community members. Two sectors, off-road equipment and agriculture, saw increases in their emissions from 2005 to 2019. Detailed summaries of changes in GHG emissions by sector appear in Appendix B. Per-Person GHG Emissions Along with the “absolute” GHG emission levels discussed previously, the project team assessed the per-person GHG emissions from the unincorporated county. The team calculates per-person GHG emissions by taking the absolute GHG emissions in Table 3 and dividing them by the number of residents in the unincorporated county for that inventory year. Table 5 and Figure 8 show the per-person emissions for the inventory years for the unincorporated county. The transportation sector has consistently been the largest source of GHG emissions in unincorporated Contra Costa County. The sectors that experienced the largest decrease in annual GHG emissions between 2005 and 2019 were BART, water and wastewater, residential energy, and transportation. Page 77CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 49 Overall, per-person emissions declined 27 percent from 2005 to 2019. Because the population of the unincorporated county grew during this time, most sectors saw their per-person emissions decline. Even for sectors that had increases in their absolute emissions, such as Agriculture, population growth resulted in a decline in per-person emissions. The two sectors that saw an increase in per-person emissions were Off-road equipment, and Nonresidential energy, although the per-person emissions grew by 53 percent from 2005 to 2019 compared to a 73 percent increase in absolute emissions. TABLE 5. PER-PERSON GHG EMISSIONS, 2005 TO 2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005–2019 Population Residents 154,270 165,700 174,110 174,150 13% Emissions (MTCO2e per-person) Transportation 4.07 3.93 3.28 2.66 -35% Residential energy 1.91 1.70 1.22 1.10 -42% Solid waste 1.58 1.36 1.28 1.27 -20% Nonresidential energy 0.77 0.76 0.57 0.92 19% Agriculture 0.22 0.24 0.26 0.21 -4% Off-road equipment 0.22 0.22 0.25 0.31 53% Water and wastewater 0.05 0.04 0.03 0.03 -47% BART 0.01 0.01 0.01 Less than 0.01 -84% Land use and sequestration -0.46 -0.43 -0.41 -0.41 -11% Total Annual (MTCO2e per- person) 8.37 7.82 6.48 6.09 -27% Informational Items Stationary Sources 90.64 72.15 64.51 62.40 -31% Wildfire 0.09 0.40 0.00 0.06 N/A* Note: All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. * Overall change between 2005 and 2019 is not calculated because of the high degree of year-to-year variability. Per-person emissions declined 27 percent between 2005 and 2019. Page 78CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 3 50 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 FIGURE 8. PER-PERSON ANNUAL GHG EMISSIONS BY SECTOR, 2005 TO 2019 -2.00 0.00 2.00 4.00 6.00 8.00 10.00 2005 2013 2017 2019GHG emissions (MTCO2e per person)Residential energy Nonresidential energy Transportation Solid waste BART Off-road equipment Water and wastewater Agriculture Land use and sequestration Local Energy Providers As of April 2018, approximately 88 percent of customers in unincorporated Contra Costa County are buying electricity from MCE, a not-for-profit clean energy provider. Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) provides electricity to most of the remaining customers, as well as providing natural gas to all customers. Some large industrial facilities receive electricity from third-party providers. Some residents heat their homes using propane, kerosene, or wood. Page 79CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 51 The typical resident in Contra Costa County… …uses about 4,610 kWh of electricity annually. …uses about 200 therms of natural gas each year. …drives about 6,530 miles annually. …throws out about 910 pounds of trash each year. …uses about 46,000 gallons of water annually. COUNTY GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS EMISSIONS INVENTORY Contra Costa County conducted government operations emissions inventories in 2006 and 2017. In 2006, Contra Costa County government operations emissions totaled 54,130 MTCO2e for the sectors reported in this inventory (see Table 6). In 2017, County government operations GHG emissions were 43,380 MTCO2e, a 20 percent decrease from 2006. This decrease is primarily the result of reductions in energy use, reductions in County Fleet emissions, and reductions in government-generated solid waste. The 2017 inventory also includes emissions from Wastewater Treatment and Refrigerants, which were not included in the 2006 inventory. In summary: • The largest source of emissions in 2017 is from the Employee Commute sector (25,800 MTCO2e). In the 2006 inventory, Employee Commute is also the largest contributor of GHG emissions (23,530 MTCO2e). In 2017, GHG emissions from County government operations were 43,380 MTCO2e, a 20 percent decrease from 2006. This decrease is primarily the result of reductions in energy use, reductions in County fleet emissions, and reductions in government- generated solid waste. Page 80CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 3 52 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 • Significant emissions also originate from the Buildings and Facilities sector (12,500 MTCO2e in 2017) and Government (County) Fleet (3,430 MTCO2e in 2017). • Emissions from every sector except for Employee Commute decreased between 2006 and 2017. There was a 10 percent increase in GHG emissions related to Employee Commute over this time. • The greatest reduction in the amount of emissions was in the Buildings and Facilities sector (–6,760 MTCO2e), followed by Government (County) Fleet sector (–5,070 MTCO2e), and Solid Waste (–1,070 MTCO2e). • The number of County employees increased by 19 percent from 2006, accounting for 1,335 new positions in 2017. • County employee transportation VMT increased, although this increase was slightly offset by improvements in vehicle efficiency. As a result, overall employee commute emissions increased 10 percent from 2006 to 2017. • Energy usage in Buildings and Facilities as well as the Public Lighting sector emissions decreased overall due in large part to lower utility electricity emissions factors and energy efficiency. • Annual solid waste volumes decreased. Figure 9 compares 2017 GHG emissions to the 2006 baseline GHG emissions for the County operations inventory. 016 Page 81CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #016 Posted by Tracy Marcial on 04/08/2024 at 12:17pm [Comment ID: 51] - Link Question Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 Should this say "Emissions from energy usage in buildings" rather than "energy usage in buildings"? Page 82CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 53 FIGURE 9. 2006 BASELINE AND 2017 COUNTY-OPERATIONS GHG EMISSIONS SUMMARY TABLE 6. 2006 BASELINE AND 2017 COUNTY-OPERATIONS GHG EMISSIONS SUMMARY SECTOR 2006 GHG EMISSIONS (MTCO2E) 2017 GHG EMISSIONS (MTCO2E) PERCENT CHANGE Employee commute 23,530 25,800 10% Buildings and facilities 19,260 12,500 -35% Government fleet 8,500 3,430 -60% Government-generated solid waste 1,980 900 -54% Public lighting 830 440 -47% Water and wastewater Not included 220 — Refrigerants Not included 90 — Total 54,090 43,380 -20% Notes: These inventories assume 8,420 County employees in 2006 and 10,030 employees in 2017, a 19% increase. All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not add up to the sum of individual rows due to rounding. 0 10,000 20,000 30,000 40,000 50,000 60,000 2006 2017GHG emissions (MTCO2e)Employee commute Buildings and facilities Government fleet Government-generated solid waste Public lighting Water and wastewater Refrigerants Page 83CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 3 54 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Many factors contribute to changes in GHG emissions. Key factors may include changes in electricity and natural gas use, the proportion of electricity obtained from carbon-free sources, VMT, vehicle fuel efficiency, landfilled waste tonnage, temperature (affecting heating and cooling demand), and demographic changes (e.g., changes in population, household, and job numbers). Sector-specific descriptions of sources of and changes in GHG emissions are provided in Appendix B. CONSUMPTION-BASED INVENTORY EMISSIONS The community-wide GHG inventory presented for the unincorporated county is a protocol-compliant, production-based inventory, which means that it assesses the GHG emissions produced by activities occurring in the community. However, the inventory does not account for most of the emissions created by the consumption of food or material goods or use of services in the unincorporated county, including emissions from the manufacture and transportation of goods purchased in the community, food grown and processed in other locations, air travel by unincorporated Contra Costa County community members, and the disposal or reprocessing of certain materials and products. For example, if someone who lives or works in an unincorporated county community purchases new clothes, the production-based inventory will include vehicle emissions for the trip to and from the store, energy use at the store and home, and any landfilled waste generated. It would not include emissions from the growing and processing of the raw materials in the clothes, the manufacturing of the clothes, transportation of the clothes to the store, or the reprocessing of any waste materials that do not end up in a landfill, unless these activities occur within the unincorporated county. In contrast to a production-based inventory, a second type of GHG inventory, known as a consumption-based inventory, looks at a wider array of GHG emissions created by the goods and services used by unincorporated county community members, including residents, businesses, and employees. A consumption-based inventory assesses emissions associated with the manufacture, transportation, and disposal of these goods and services regardless of where they occur. Such inventories can provide a more complete picture of the GHG emissions associated with the lifestyle and consumer behavior of unincorporated county community members. A consumption-based inventory assesses emissions associated with the manufacture, transportation, and disposal of these goods and services regardless of where they occur. Page 84CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 55 A consumption-based inventory is more complex to prepare than a production-based inventory. There are not established protocols and methods for consumption-based inventories, and California does not yet have a statewide consumption-based inventory or any guidance for preparing one. Due to these limitations, the project team did not prepare one as part of this 2024 CAP. In 2015, BAAQMD worked with the Cool Climate Network at the University of California, Berkeley, to prepare a consumption-based inventory for all Bay Area jurisdictions. This inventory includes GHG emissions from the following sources: • Travel: GHG emissions from fuel use by on-road vehicles, vehicle manufacturing and repairs, public transportation, and air travel. • Housing: GHG emissions from electricity and natural gas use in homes as well as other fuels associated with home heating (such as kerosene or fuel oil), electricity emissions from water and wastewater activities, and waste emissions. This category also includes emissions from the manufacture, transportation, and construction and demolition of materials used to construct houses. • Food: GHG emissions from the growth, processing/manufacturing, and transportation of food products. • Goods: GHG emissions from the manufacture, transportation, and disposal of consumer products, such as home furnishings, appliances and electronics, clothing, and healthcare and personal items. • Services: GHG emissions from personal and business services, including entertainment and recreation, communication, education, healthcare, and maintenance and repair activities. Some of these GHG emission sources are also included in the production-based inventory prepared as part of the 2024 CAP, and others are covered by either the production-based or consumption-based inventory but not both. According to the consumption-based inventory, transportation is responsible for 34 percent of emissions produced by activities conducted and goods consumed within unincorporated Contra Costa County. Food is responsible for 19 percent, goods and services for 17 percent each, and housing for 13 percent (see Figure 10). Page 85CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 3 56 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 FIGURE 10. CONSUMPTION-BASED GHG EMISSIONS INVENTORY RESULTS While the 2024 CAP does not directly speak to the goods and services used and offered by residents, business, and industry, the Contra Costa County community should recognize the role that consumption patterns play in achieving the County’s sustainability and climate goals. 15.50 6.18 8.76 7.89 7.97 0 10 20 30 40 50 GHG emissions (MTCO2e per Household) Transportation Housing Food Goods Services Page 86CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 57 GHG Emissions and Food Consumption Food production, transport, storage, cooking, and waste are substantial contributors to GHG emissions, accounting for approximately 30 percent of emissions globally. These emissions include carbon dioxide, from fossil fuels used to power farm machinery and to transport, store, and cook foods; methane, released by animals as part of their digestive process; and nitrous oxide, released from tilled and fertilized soils. The majority of the emissions associated with food consumption occur outside of Contra Costa County. Different food groups are associated with different levels of GHG emissions. Animal-based products are generally responsible for significantly greater emissions than plant-based products per unit weight. Emissions are released during multiple stages of the meat-producing process, including the cultivation of cereal crops to use as animal feed, which may require the conversion of existing forestland; during the animal digestive process; and during the decomposition of animal wastes. Emissions are also generated during the meat storage, processing, and transportation process. Plant-based foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, and lentils, typically require fewer resources to cultivate. According to the consumption-based inventory, meat is responsible for approximately 30 percent of diet-related GHG emissions within unincorporated Contra Costa County. Research has also found that healthier diets tend to be associated with lower GHG emissions. Fostering awareness of the connection between food choices and the environment can therefore be an effective way of lowering GHG emissions and promoting healthy lifestyles. The 2024 CAP and General Plan help reduce emissions associated with food consumption by including policies to support local food production and equitable access to healthy food. Sources: Clune S, Crossin E, Verghese K (2017). Systematic review of greenhouse gas emissions for different fresh food categories. Journal of Cleaner Production 140(2): https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0959652616303584. Rippin HL, Cade JE, Berrang-Ford L, Benton TG, Hancock N, Greenwood DC (2021). Variations in greenhouse gas emissions of individual diets: Associations between the greenhouse gas emissions and nutrient intake in the United Kingdom. PLoS ONE 16(11): e0259418. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0259418. Scarborough P, Appleby PN, Mizdrak A, Briggs ADM, Travis RC, Bradbury KE, Key TJ (2014). Dietary greenhouse gas emissions of meat-eaters, fish-eaters, vegetarians, and vegans in the UK. Climate Change 125(2): 179-192. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4372775/ Page 87CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 3 58 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 GHG Forecast The following sections present the results of the community-wide and County operations GHG emissions forecasts for the years 2030 and 2045. For a detailed description of GHG forecast methods and assumptions, see Appendix B. ABSOLUTE GHG EMISSIONS FORECAST Table 7 and Figure 11 show unincorporated Contra Costa County’s projected future GHG emissions relative to the 2019 inventory. These projections are obtained by applying projected changes in community population to resource use and transportation behavior recorded in 2019. As such, these projections do not account for any potential changes in transportation or resource use directly resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, the long- term effects of which are not currently known. Most sectors show an increase in GHG emissions due to the growing population. Agricultural emissions decrease because the amount of land used for agricultural purposes is projected to decline. Although the land use and sequestration sector is expected to remain a net carbon sink (negative emissions), the amount of emissions sequestered (removed from the atmosphere) by the activities in this sector are projected to decline. This is due to anticipated development of currently undeveloped land, removing the potential for this land to sequester, or store, carbon. Sequestration in forested and urbanized areas is projected to increase slightly. TABLE 7. ABSOLUTE GHG EMISSIONS FORECAST, 2019 TO 2045 SECTOR 2019 2030 2045 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2019–2045 Transportation 464,040 542,020 605,080 30% Residential energy 191,780 217,710 259,380 35% Nonresidential energy 159,520 167,720 180,200 13% Solid waste 220,760 229,450 260,490 18% Agriculture 36,130 34,770 33,410 -8% Off-road equipment 54,010 69,520 76,100 41% Water and wastewater 4,870 5,530 6,590 35% BART 190 220 260 37% Land use and sequestration -70,860 -67,580 -58,890 -17% Total Annual MTCO2e 1,060,440 1,199,360 1,362,620 28% Page 88CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 3. Climate Changes and GHGs Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 59 FIGURE 11. ABSOLUTE GHG EMISSIONS FORECAST, 2019 TO 2045 -200,000 0 200,000 400,000 600,000 800,000 1,000,000 1,200,000 1,400,000 1,600,000 2019 2030 2045GHG emisisons (MTCO2e)Residential Energy Nonresidential Energy Transportation Solid Waste BART Off-road Equipment Water and Wastewater Agriculture Land Use and Sequestration Page 89CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 3 60 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 This page intentionally left blank. Page 90CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION PLAN Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 61 4. GHG EMISSION REDUCTION STRA TEGY 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Briones Valley. Photo credit: Stephen Joseph. GHG Emissions Reduction Goals A key part of any CAP is one or more goals for future GHG emissions levels. These goals may be “firm” levels of GHG emission reductions supported by State regulations and local commitments (also called regulatory goals) or aspirations that go beyond adopted minimums and represent a higher level of GHG emission reductions that communities can strive toward. The 2024 CAP includes GHG emission reduction goals for 2030 and 2045. As discussed in Chapter 2, California has two statewide regulatory goals for reduction of GHGs: • Reduce GHG emissions to 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030. This goal was codified into law by SB 32. • Reduce emissions to 85 percent below 1990 levels and achieve net carbon neutrality by 2045. This is the goal codified by AB 1279. Page 91CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 4 62 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 The 2022 Scoping Plan recommends that local governments support statewide efforts to achieve net carbon neutrality by achieving an 85 percent reduction in GHG emissions compared to 1990 by 2045. The 2022 Scoping Plan also removes specific goals for per- person emissions reductions that appeared in previous versions. The BAAQMD 2020 CEQA Guidelines,7 CEQA Thresholds for Evaluating the Significance of Climate Impacts from Land Use Projects and Plans, require that local climate action plans such as the 2024 CAP be consistent with these State-level goals. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY’S GHG EMISSION REDUCTION GOALS Local GHG emissions reduction efforts, such as this 2024 CAP, may select any GHG emissions reduction goals that are appropriate for unincorporated Contra Costa County. However, to comply with State and regional guidelines for CEQA, the GHG emission reduction goals in the 2024 CAP should be broadly consistent with the State-level goals. Additionally, the 2045 General Plan informs the County’s land use decisions and related policies out to 2045; therefore, consistency with the State’s 2045 goal also aligns with the General Plan’s horizon year. Given these considerations, the GHG emissions reduction goals for Contra Costa County are: • Reduce GHG emissions to 658,700 MTCO2e by 2030. • Reduce GHG emissions to 164,680 MTCO2e by 2045. Table 8 and Figure 12 show these emission goals and how they compare to the County’s projected GHG emissions in Chapter 3. TABLE 8. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY GHG EMISSIONS AND EMISSION GOALS, 2019 TO 2045 2019 2030 2045 Forecast GHG emissions 1,060,440 MTCO2e 1,199,360 MTCO2e 1,362,620 MTCO2e Goal None 658,700 MTCO2e 164,680 MTCO2e GHG emissions to be reduced N/A 540,660 MTCO2e 1,197,940 MTCO2e Page 92CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 63 FIGURE 12. GHG EMISSION LEVELS AND REDUCTION GOALS Existing and Planned GHG Emissions Reduction Efforts The County must substantially reduce its GHG emissions to achieve its goals. Fortunately, there are already several efforts in place or planned at the State and regional level that are expected to reduce GHG emissions in the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County without the County taking additional action. The County can receive “credit” for the level of GHG emissions reduced locally by these existing and planned efforts. California has adopted and committed to implementing policies to decrease GHG emission levels statewide, including from several of the major GHG emission sources in the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County. Many of these policies are identified in the 2008 Scoping Plan and have been revised and expanded by successive updates. The Scoping Plan and related documents lay out several State-led policies to reduce GHG emissions, but six policies have a direct and apparent GHG emission reduction benefit to unincorporated Contra Costa County: The Renewables Portfolio Standard (RPS), Clean Car Standards, Title 24 building energy efficiency standards, the Low Carbon Fuel Standard - 200,000 400,000 600,000 800,000 1,000,000 1,200,000 1,400,000 1,600,000 2005 2019 2030 2045GHG emissions (MTCO2e)Baseline emissions Forecasted emissions Goal emissions Emissions to be reduced Page 93CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 4 64 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 (LCFS), the Short-Lived Climate Pollutant Reduction Strategy, and Renewable Natural Gas. An in-depth description of these initiatives and their projected GHG emission savings are provided in Appendix B. 1. The Renewables Portfolio Standard requires increases in renewable and carbon-free electricity supplies. 2. The Clean Car Standards require increased fuel efficiency of on-road vehicles and decreased carbon intensity of vehicle fuels. 3. The updated Title 24 building energy efficiency standards require new buildings to achieve increased energy-efficiency goals, and in some cases to install rooftop solar panels. The latest version of these standards went into effect January 1, 2023. 4. The Low Carbon Fuel Standard mandates reduced carbon intensity of fuels used in off-road equipment. 5. The Short-Lived Climate Pollutant Reduction Strategy, also known as SB 1383, requires that jurisdictions provide organic waste collection services, recover edible food, and keep most organic waste out of landfills. 6. Renewable Natural Gas assumes that biomethane and renewable hydrogen fuels will be blended into the fossil gas pipeline and that, in the 2030s, dedicated hydrogen pipelines will be constructed to serve certain industrial clusters. In addition to State actions, the County’s default electricity provider, MCE, has also taken action to reduce the GHG emissions from the electricity it supplies to unincorporated Contra Costa County community members, beyond the minimum required by the RPS. In 2019, MCE electricity was approximately 60 percent renewable and 90 percent carbon free. In future years, MCE will work to source 95 percent of its electricity from carbon-free sources. When quantifying the emissions impacts from electricity procurement policies, GHG emissions reductions from RPS are considered first. The reductions from MCE clean energy procurement shown in Table 9 represent savings obtained after the effects of the RPS have been considered. Table 9 shows the GHG emissions reduction potential from the State-level efforts and MCE’s energy procurement plans and projected levels of adoption of The project team estimated GHG savings from the Clean Car Standards using State modeling tools released in 2021. These models do not consider newer State regulations to accelerate the transition to zero-emission vehicles, and so they do not reflect all the expected GHG reductions from zero-emission vehicles in Contra Costa County. The remaining savings are covered in Strategy TR-2, which is discussed later in this chapter. Page 94CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 65 MCE Deep Green, as well as how unincorporated Contra Costa County’s GHG emission levels with these reductions compares to the goals discussed previously. TABLE 9. GHG EMISSION REDUCTIONS FROM EXISTING AND PLANNED ACTIONS, 2019 TO 2045 2019 MTCO2E 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E Forecast emissions without existing and planned actions 1,060,440 1,199,360 1,362,620 Reductions from RPS - -24,620 -115,400 Reductions from Clean Car standards - -110,250 -214,120 Reductions from Title 24 - -10,460 -33,710 Reductions from LCFS (off-road only)* - -740 -7,430 Reductions from SB 1383 -21,880 -53,870 Reductions from renewable natural gas - -17,180 -73,670 Reductions from MCE clean energy procurement - -1,240 - Reductions from all actions -185,520 -483,340 Remaining emissions with existing and planned actions 1,060,440 1,013,840 879,280 *Due to how the off-road equipment emissions from LCFS are calculated, the results show a minor increase in emissions from this sector. Page 95CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 4 66 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 New Reduction Strategies to Achieve Our Goals The 2024 CAP uses a process called quantification to determine the amount of GHG emissions reduced by each strategy. The foundation for the quantification calculations is the baseline GHG inventory and forecast. Activity data from the inventory, such as VMT or kilowatt- hours, are combined with participation rates and data about the reduction in activity data from each action to calculate the GHG emissions reduction benefit of each strategy. This approach ensures that the GHG emissions reductions from the 2024 CAP strategies are tied to current and future community activities. Calculations for reduction in activity data come from tools and reports provided by government agencies; these agencies include the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), California Energy Commission (CEC), California Air Resources Board (CARB), California Air Pollution Control Officers Association, US Department of Energy, and local air districts. If accurate data are not available through these sources, quantification uses case studies from comparable communities and applicable scholarly research. This 2024 CAP identifies GHG emissions reductions for most of the strategies. However, there are a few that do not have a specific reduction level due to missing data or the lack of reliable methodology. These efforts are still expected to reduce GHG emissions, but by how much cannot be accurately determined. These strategies are labeled “supportive”. Strategies that only reduce electricity use or increase renewable electricity supplies will show zero GHG emissions reductions in 2045. This is because the State’s RPS requires all electricity sold in California to be carbon free by 2045. Because there will already be no emissions from electricity use in 2045, Contra Costa County cannot count additional reductions associated with electricity in this year. This 2024 CAP already credits reductions from the RPS as an existing State program. With the 2024 CAP in place, the following are projected to occur before 2045: • Average natural gas per household will decline by 87 percent. • The average resident will drive 14 percent fewer miles per year. • The average resident will generate 27 percent less solid waste. Page 96CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 67 Local renewable energy systems and energy efficiency strategies will continue to provide several co-benefits to communities, including lower electricity bills and increased resiliency against power disruptions, even if there are no measurable additional GHG emissions reductions. GHG EMISSIONS REDUCTION STRATEGIES This section presents the presents 28 climate action strategies, including 11 that make up the County’s GHG emissions reduction approach. These strategies include a mix of education and outreach programs to encourage GHG emissions reduction activities, financial subsidies, and other enticements to incentivize GHG emissions reductions and mandates to require GHG emissions reductions. The remaining 17 strategies make up the 2024 CAP’s adaptation and resilience approach (discussed in Chapter 5) and the implementation approach (discussed in Chapter 6). The 11 GHG emissions reduction strategies are organized into five categories, each with a goal: Clean and Efficient Built Environment (BE) No Waste Contra Costa (NW) Reduce Water Use and Increase Drought Resilience (DR) Clean Transportation Network (CT) Climate Equity (CE) Each strategy presented in this 2024 CAP includes a description of the strategy, the absolute 2030 and 2045 GHG emissions reductions anticipated from the strategy at the projected performance level, the recommended actions necessary to implement it, and community co-benefits. Recommended actions represent the County’s current understanding of best practices in achieving GHG emissions reductions and community equity, availability of technology, and local regulations as well as the current State and federal regulatory environment. County staff will revisit these recommended actions as Page 97CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 4 68 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 conditions change and new opportunities become available. Figure 13 provides definitions of goals, strategies, and actions, as used in this CAP. FIGURE 13. DEFINING A CAP GOAL, STRATEGY, AND ACTION CAP Goal: An end statement describing the general result sought by the community. Each goal has associated strategies and actions. Goals are given abbreviations based on their topic (for example, TR for Transportation). CAP Strategy: A specific statement to guide decision making as the County works to achieve the GHG reduction targets and climate action goals. Strategies are statements of policy and intent. Each strategy is supported by a series of actions. Strategies are numbered based on the goal they fall under (for example, BE-2 is the second strategy under the Built Environment goal). CAP Action: A recommended measure, program, procedure, or technique to implement the associated strategy. Actions are concrete steps for the County to take, in collaboration with community members and key partners. They are not a comprehensive list of everything the County can do to implement the strategy. Page 98CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 69 Community co-benefits are additional advantages of the strategy to communities beyond GHG emissions reduction. The 2024 CAP highlights 12 co-benefits that a GHG emissions reduction strategy can provide, although strategies may provide additional benefits beyond those identified here: Cost savings Enhanced recreation opportunities Greater community resilience Greater energy independence Improved air quality Improved community equity Improved public health Increased economic opportunities Increased resilience to pests Reduced disaster effects Reduced landfill waste Reduced resource use Page 99CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 4 70 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 General Plan Alignment The goals, strategies, and recommended implementation actions in this CAP are in sync with the approach to reduce GHG emissions and address climate adaptation contained in the County’s 2045 General Plan, which is discussed in greater detail in Chapter 1. Where appropriate, the strategy language in the 2024 CAP is identical to policy or action language in the General Plan. In other instances, the General Plan language provides a high-level framework for the more specific strategy wording in the 2024 CAP. There are also cross- references in the 2024 CAP at the end of relevant actions, indicating where the General Plan addresses the same topic. Each cross-reference is made up of three parts: (1) a General Plan abbreviation, (2) a designation of a policy or action, and (3) the number of the referred policy or action. The cross-references use the following abbreviations for General Plan elements. Note that not all General Plan elements are cross-referenced in the 2024 CAP, and so are not listed here: • COS: Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands • HS: Health and Safety • SC: Stronger Communities • PFS: Public Facilities and Services • GM: Growth Management A cross-reference containing an element abbreviation followed by “P” refers to a policy, while a cross-reference containing an element abbreviation “A” refers to an action. This designation is then followed by two numbers. The first number is the goal under which the policy or action may be found. The second number is the number of the policy or action under that goal. For example, a cross-reference to HS-P8.3 refers to the Health and Safety Element, Goal 8, and the third policy under that goal. Similarly, COS-A14.4 refers to the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element, Goal 14, and the fourth action under that goal. This approach is intended to help ensure consistency between the General Plan and the 2024 CAP, being clear that both documents work together to address GHG reductions and improve resilience to climate change. In addition to policies in the General Plan that provide direction on specific topics that are relevant to the 2024 CAP, there are three policies that address overarching issues in the 2024 CAP. These three policies are contained in the Health and Safety Element of the General Plan. All three fall under Goal HS-3. Page 100CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 71 General Plan Policy HS-P3.1 Prioritize implementation of the Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan to reduce GHG emissions from community-wide sources and adapt to changing climate conditions. General Plan Policy HS-P3.2 Facilitate carbon-neutral development projects and communities that support a circular economy, net-zero-emission modes of transportation, reliable and renewable energy resources, energy-efficient buildings, zero waste, water efficiency and conservation, green infrastructure, soil conservation, and a system of natural and working lands that support carbon sequestration and climate resilience. General Plan Policy HS-P3.3 Require new development projects using the Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan to streamline their environmental review of GHG emissions, as permitted by CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5, to demonstrate consistency with the Climate Action Plan and incorporate applicable GHG reduction and climate change adaptation measures. These three policies, along with the more specific General Plan policies cross-referenced in the following sections, support the development and implementation of the 2024 CAP. General Plan Goal HS-3 Communities that reduce existing and anticipated greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in support of statewide carbon neutrality goals and other GHG reduction targets. Page 101CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 4 72 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 CLEAN AND EFFICIENT BUILT ENVIRONMENT (BE) HOMES, WORKPLACES, AND BUSINESSES IN UNINCORPORATED CONTRA COSTA COUNTY RUN EFFICIENTLY ON CLEAN ENERGY. Homes and commercial buildings in Contra Costa County. The structure of the built environment plays a significant role in how members of the Contra Costa County community work, play, live, and allocate personal resources. Community decisions about the structure, form, and function of homes, businesses, and other vital community structures represent a significant, long-term investment in a particular way of living life and conducting business. The built environment uses a significant amount of energy and is responsible for a large share of Contra Costa County’s GHG emissions. However, as shown in Figure 14, increasing the proportion of communities’ energy mix that comes from carbon-free and renewable sources can dramatically reduce emissions resulting from electricity use within buildings. These strategies, combined with investing in energy- efficient buildings and retrofits, and reducing the resource intensity of building materials will reduce GHG emissions and energy use. These efforts can also reduce utility costs, improve local air quality, and make the neighborhoods of Contra Costa County more resilient, comfortable, and habitable in the face of the effects of climate change. Page 102CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 73 FIGURE 14. EMISSIONS PRODUCED PER KWH OF ELECTRICITY, MCE AND PG&E BE-1: Require and incentivize new buildings and additions built in unincorporated Contra Costa County to be low-carbon or carbon neutral. Under this strategy, there will be more new carbon-neutral and low-carbon buildings in unincorporated Contra Costa County through efforts to build all-electric new construction and use carbon-neutral/low-carbon building materials. This strategy builds on the County’s existing All-Electric Building Ordinance, which requires that all new residential (including single-family homes, multifamily buildings, and accessory dwelling units), hotels, office buildings, and retail buildings to be all-electric. These buildings may not have natural gas plumbing, and they must use electricity as the sole source of energy for space heating (including indoor and outdoor spaces), water heating (including heating of indoor or outdoor pools and spas), cooking appliances, and clothes drying appliances. Such buildings may use emergency backup power sources that are fossil-fuel operated. This ordinance must be updated when the County adopts a new version of the California Energy Code every three years. The County is committed to renewing this ordinance in future years. 2030 2045 GHG emissions reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 13,620 10,710 0.000000 0.000020 0.000040 0.000060 0.000080 0.000100 0.000120 2017 2019 2030 2040 2045GHG emissions (MTCO2e/kWh)Electricity (PG&E)Electricity (MCE) Page 103CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 4 74 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Strategy BE-1 Co-benefits: Cost savings Improved air quality Improved community equity Improved public health Increased economic opportunities Increased resilience to pests Reduced resource use Strategy BE-1 Actions:  Consider adopting new or modified reach codes that exceed the California Building Standards Code to require the use of lower-carbon intensive energy sources, to achieve higher feasible levels of energy conservation and efficiency, and to achieve lower feasible levels of GHG emissions. (COS-A14.4)  Maintain, update, publicize, and enforce the County Ordinance Code Title 7 – Building Regulations amendment requiring new residential buildings, hotels, offices, and retail to be all-electric. Evaluate the feasibility of including other building types as appropriate. (COS-A14.5)  Partner with community groups and MCE to establish an induction cooktop loaner program for county residents.  Design and construct new County facilities to be zero net energy to the extent feasible. (COS-P14.8)  Study the feasibility of establishing a low-carbon concrete requirement for all new construction and retrofit activities and consider additional strategies to reduce embedded carbon in construction materials. The intent is to determine what the County can and should do to support or exceed State requirements for net-zero emissions for cement use by 2045. (HS-A3.2) Portable induction cooktop. Photo credit: Nicole Shimizu. Page 104CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 75  Provide educational materials to encourage project applicants to incorporate passive solar design features into new developments and significant reconstructions.  Promote additional sustainable building strategies and designs, including small and “tiny” homes, to project applicants as site appropriate. Consider requiring additional sustainable features as a condition of approval, including reuse of materials to minimize embedded carbon. BE-2: Retrofit existing buildings and facilities in the unincorporated county, and County infrastructure, to reduce energy use and convert to low-carbon or carbon-neutral fuels. With implementation of this strategy, the existing built environment in unincorporated Contra Costa County will include more carbon-neutral and low- carbon buildings through all-electric upgrades, energy efficiency, and weatherization retrofits, and upgrades to existing buildings, including County-owned and operated buildings and facilities. In March 2023, BAAQMD adopted a regulation to require existing natural-gas-powered space heaters and water heaters be replaced with electrical models when the natural-gas- powered units reach the end of their operational life. This regulation will take effect in 2027 to 2031 for water heaters (depending on the capacity of the unit) and in 2029 for space heaters. This regulation accelerates the transition of natural gas appliances to electric appliances in existing homes and non-residential buildings, resulting in a higher adoption rate of these technologies. 2030 2045 GHG emissions reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 81,140 177,830 Approximately 56 percent of the county’s housing stock was constructed prior to 1980, around the time when modern building codes were first adopted (this includes the 19 cities). Within the unincorporated county, approximately 74 percent of housing stock was constructed prior to 1980. Page 105CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 4 76 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Strategy BE-2 Co-benefits: Cost savings Improved air quality Improved community equity Improved public health Increased economic opportunities Reduced resource use Strategy BE-2 Actions:  Create a County policy or program to facilitate making existing residential and nonresidential buildings more energy-efficient and powered by carbon-free energy. (COS-A14.6)  Require replacement and new water heater and space heating and cooling systems to be electric if the building electric panel has sufficient capacity in accordance with BAAQMD Regulation 9, Rule 4, and Regulation 9, Rule 6. (COS-P14.10)  Create a detailed roadmap to convert existing homes and businesses to use low- or zero-carbon appliances. The roadmap should include steps to support converting buildings to rely on low- or zero- carbon energy using an equitable framework that minimizes the risk of displacement or significant disruptions to existing tenants. (COS-A14.7)  Evaluate options for incentivizing and requiring additions and alterations to be energy efficient and to achieve the lowest feasible levels of GHG emissions, including upgrades to the building electric panel as needed. (COS-A14.8) BayREN The Bay Area Regional Energy Network (BayREN) is a partnership between communities in the nine-county Bay Area region, including Contra Costa County, which supports energy efficiency, water efficiency, and GHG emissions reduction. BayREN provides financial and technical assistance to property owners, businesses, and local governments to reduce their resource use and GHG emissions. This work includes providing rebates and other incentives for energy efficiency retrofits and the installation of energy-efficient appliances. 017 018 Page 106CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #017 Posted by Ali Uscilka on 03/13/2024 at 10:07am [Comment ID: 47] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 Glad to see this here - this is a big concern for renting families. Protections could include financial relocation assistance, incentives for property owners that prohibit evictions or rent increases for impacted units, etc. #018 Posted by Tracy Marcial on 04/08/2024 at 12:31pm [Comment ID: 52] - Link Question Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 Should this say "small businesses"? We've found it doesn't apply for our organization. Page 107CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 77  Ensure County-led and supported retrofit programs incentivize and prioritize conversion of buildings built before 1980 and emphasize assistance to owners of properties that are home to very low-, low-, and moderate- income residents or located in Impacted Communities, as permitted by available funding. (COS-A14.9)  Explore opportunities, in collaboration with partner agencies, to create new incentives or publicize existing ones to support updating existing buildings to achieve the lowest feasible levels of GHG emissions.  Work to continue to obtain funding with partners such as BayREN and MCE to implement a program or programs to provide reduced-cost or free energy-efficiency and zero-carbon retrofits to local small businesses and households earning less than the area median income, in support of the Contra Costa County Asthma Initiative, Contra Costa County Weatherization Program, similar County programs, other nonprofit partners, and other health equity efforts for Impacted Communities. Support the use of low-emitting materials, including paints and carpeting, in retrofits to improve indoor air quality.  In partnership with MCE and BayREN, continue to support voluntary home and business energy efficiency retrofits, including all-electric measures.  Facilitate participation by homes and businesses in demand response programs.  Continue to conduct energy and water tracking activities, audits, and upgrades of County facilities, including conversion of feasible County facilities to all-electric space and water heating.  Advocate for modifications to the federal Weatherization Assistance Program that expand eligible measures to include whole building clean energy improvements, such as wall insulation, duct sealing, electric panel upgrades, electric heat pumps, and related measures. Advocate for an increase in the income eligibility limits for the Weatherization Assistance Program.  Implement requirements for cool roofs and light- colored, non-reflective, permeable paving materials as part of retrofit, repair, and replacement activities, using recycled materials or other materials with low embedded carbon as feasible and as established by the Building Standards Code. Cool roofs and pavement Cool roofs and pavements help to reduce the amount of sunlight absorbed by these materials, helping to bring down the temperature in buildings and developed areas. Both cool roofs and pavements reflect most sunlight, rather than absorbing it, and efficiently emit the solar energy that they do absorb. In the California Building Standards Code, these materials are formally defined by their level of thermal emittance and solar reflectance. Page 108CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 4 78 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 BE-3: Increase the amount of electricity used and generated from renewable sources in the county. This strategy seeks to accelerate the replacement of electricity from fossil fuels with electricity from renewable and other carbon-free sources. Actions include increased local renewable energy generation, support for MCE clean energy programs, including Deep Green and Local Sol tiers, and improved energy independence and resilience through battery storage systems for renewable electricity. 2030 2045 GHG emissions reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 10,820 0 Examples of ground-mounted and rooftop solar arrays. Multifamily buildings can be constructed with solar energy and battery storage systems. This reduces the amount of GHGs from the electricity needed to power the building and increases resilience to power outages. Page 109CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 79 Strategy BE-3 Co-benefits: Greater energy independence Improved air quality Improved community equity Improved public health Increased economic opportunities Strategy BE-3 Actions:  Require new commercial parking lots with 50 or more spaces to mitigate heat gain through installation of shade trees, solar arrays, or other emerging cooling technologies. Prioritize the use of solar arrays where feasible and appropriate. (HS-P8.3)  Encourage property owners to pursue financial incentives for solar energy installations and energy storage technologies, such as battery storage systems, on new and existing buildings.  Work with MCE to increase enrollment, especially in the Deep Green tier.  Continue to enroll all eligible, non-solar-equipped County facility electricity accounts in MCE territory in the Deep Green tier.  Work with the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District and other organizations that provide fire protection services to provide education and promote incentives for battery storage systems that can increase the resilience of homes and businesses to power outages. MCE Levels of Service MCE provides three tiers of electricity service: Light Green 60% Renewable Energy, Deep Green 100% Renewable Energy, and 100% Locally Produced Solar Energy. Approximately 98 percent of MCE accounts participate in the Light Green tier, 2 percent participate in Deep Green, and less than 1 percent participate in Local Solar. On March 24, 2020, the County Board of Supervisors voted to go Deep Green 100% renewable with MCE for the majority of the County’s accounts. Page 110CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 4 80 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023  Encourage installation of battery storage systems in new and existing buildings, especially buildings with solar energy systems and buildings that provide essential community services. (COS-P14.7)  Provide information about battery storage systems with all applications for new home construction and solar panel installations.  Pursue implementation of recommendations of the 2018 Renewable Resource Potential Study.  Evaluate the least-conflict feasible locations for stand-alone battery storage systems and modify land use regulations to enable such use in these locations. Page 111CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 81 NO WASTE CONTRA COSTA (NW) CONTRA COSTA COUNTY DISPOSES OF NO MORE SOLID WASTE THAN 2.2 POUNDS PER PERSON PER DAY (PPD).5 Waste reduction, reuse, recycling, and composting strategies reduce emissions by reducing the amount of material that decomposes in a landfill. These actions also encourage community-wide creativity, collaboration, and conservation as residents and business owners are inspired to share skills and develop innovative ways to reduce resource use. Communities across California are already reducing their use of single-use plastics and expanding community compost efforts in accordance with AB 1276 and SB 1383. Contra Costa County is poised to make further strides in waste management by increasing composting of organic waste, expanding recycling efforts, encouraging the reuse of materials, and reducing the amount of waste arising through County operations. Efforts to divert waste away from landfills and into composting and recycling programs reduce emissions and help make valuable recycled materials available to the broader community. Expansion of the County’s recycling and composting programs helps ensure that residents not only know how to properly manage their waste, but also have a convenient and affordable way to do so. The 2024 CAP also looks upstream, identifying strategies for reducing emissions from waste by reducing the amount of waste that results from the purchase of goods used in County operations. 5 The pounds per person per day (PPD) metric refers to the average amount of solid waste that each person that lives in the unincorporated county disposes in landfills each day. This does not include material that is recycled or composted. AB 1276 Assembly Bill (AB) 1276, signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom, changes the Public Resource Code related to single- use food accessories and standard condiments. AB 1276 prohibits restaurants and other food providers from providing single-use utensils and standard condiments unless requested by the customer. Local jurisdictions are required to authorize an enforcement agency to enforce these requirements. Page 112CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 4 82 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 The presence of three landfills within the unincorporated county means that, even if the volume of solid waste generated within the county declines significantly, GHGs will be released for decades as waste that is already within landfills continues to decompose. The 2024 CAP addresses this source of emissions by including strategies and actions to promote landfill gas capture, expanded use of landfill gases, and decreases in flaring activity. Three-stream waste management systems with clear instructions about what materials go in each bin, like this, ensure that people are able to properly sort items into the correct bin and divert compostable and recyclable materials from the landfill. Most of the emissions associated with the solid waste sector are not from waste that community members in the unincorporated county are throwing out annually. Instead, 80 to 90 percent of emissions from solid waste are coming from three landfills in the unincorporated county. These landfills accept waste from communities across Northern California. As the waste decomposes over decades, it releases GHG emissions. These landfills are the Acme Landfill outside of Martinez, the Keller Canyon Landfill outside of Pittsburg, and the West Contra Costa Landfill outside of Richmond. Although the West Contra Costa Landfill closed in 2006, the waste that had already been deposited in the landfill continues to decompose and create GHG emissions. Page 113CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 83 NW-1: Increase composting of organic waste. With this strategy in place, organic waste will be diverted from landfills to composting or other opportunities for reuse in accordance with SB 1383 and other applicable requirements. This includes establishing organic waste collection programs for all franchise waste customers, encouraging and supporting wastewater agencies to accept food waste or other acceptable organic materials for processing in on-site anaerobic digesters, and allowing for creative opportunities to reuse or reprocess organic waste material. 2030 2045 GHG emissions reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 2,240 4,000 Strategy NW-1 Co-benefits: Increased economic opportunities Increased resilience to pests Reduced landfill waste Reduced resource use Strategy NW-1 Actions: Ensure, through franchise agreements and other relationships with waste haulers, a source-separated organics collection service for all residential and commercial customers in County-controlled collection franchise areas. Require that new and expanded landfill operations significantly reduce GHG emissions to meet or exceed State targets to the extent feasible, and work toward carbon-neutral landfills. (PFS-P7.12) Work with wastewater providers to explore the use of organic waste as feedstock for anaerobic digesters to produce biogas that can generate electricity or fuel. Require local restaurants, grocery stores, and other edible food generators that handle large quantities of food to partner with food rescue organizations to divert edible food that would be otherwise disposed in landfills for distribution to those in need, in accordance with SB 1383. Collaborate with edible food recovery programs and the Community Wellness & Prevention Program to decrease food waste and address hunger. Page 114CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 4 84 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023  Procure compost or other products made from recovered organic waste in accordance with the County’s Recovered Organic Waste Product and Recycled Paper Procurement Policy. NW-2: Reduce waste from County operations. This strategy reduces waste generated through County operations and the activities of outside organizations with which the County contracts for specific goods and services. Efforts to achieve waste reductions include updating and implementing the County’s environmentally preferable purchasing policy, ensuring all County facilities have and use organic waste and recycling collection services, and requiring the use of low-carbon content building and paving materials for all County projects as feasible. 2030 2045 GHG emissions reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 1,090 1,620 Strategy NW-2 Co-Benefits: Increased economic opportunities Increased resilience to pests Reduced resource use Strategy NW-2 Actions:  Establish a source-separated organics collection service at all County-owned facilities that includes recovering food waste (scraps) and food-soiled paper.  Implement three-stream recycling (trash, recycling, and organic waste) at all County- owned facilities.  Establish requirements for source-separated organics collection and three-stream recycling as conditions in lease agreements for County offices.  Conduct waste audits of County facilities, including assessing the volume and composition of all waste streams, to identify challenges with waste activities and develop educational or operational changes to address issues and reduce waste generation. Page 115CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 85  Obtain material for capital projects from local and low-carbon sources to the greatest extent feasible, including allocating additional funds to allow for such materials, and integrate appropriate standards into the County’s Environmentally Preferable Purchasing (EPP) policy.  Continue to reduce paper use in County operations. Procure recycled paper and janitorial supplies in accordance with the Recovered Organic Waste Product and Recycled Paper Procurement Policy.  Continue engagement with TRUE zero waste certification for County projects.  Enact Bay-friendly landscaping practices at County facilities. Develop County policies and practices for Bay-friendly landscaping.  Explore opportunities to reuse wood from County tree maintenance activities as an alternative to chipping.  Encourage medical facilities and medical waste recycling companies to upgrade facilities to increase the amount of medical waste recycled or reprocessed.  Explore the feasibility of transitioning to reusable products in the health sector, where appropriate, and procuring products certified as green or low carbon. TRUE Certification TRUE certification is a certification program for facilities and their operations that assesses how well the facility is reducing the amount of waste it produces. The certification requirements include at least a 90 percent diversion rate, compliance with applicable laws and permits, and regular reporting on waste statistics. Bay Friendly Landscaping Bay Friendly Landscaping is a set of best practices for landscaping to minimize impacts to the San Francisco Bay and its watershed. These practices include reducing stormwater runoff, providing wildlife habitat, and reducing fertilizer use. 019 Page 116CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #019 Posted by Rolo Sandinam on 04/08/2024 at 4:13pm [Comment ID: 62] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 I would suggest expanding this from "bay-friendly landscaping practices" to "environmentally-friendly landscaping practices" which could include a wide variety of practices. For example, the use of electric-powered small off road equipment (leaf blowers, lawn mowers) instead of gas-powered is an environmentally friendly change that governments and citizens can make. Page 117CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 4 86 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 NW-3: Increase community-wide recycling and waste minimization programs. Under this strategy, the amount of waste sent to landfills from community members is reduced through extensive diversion and waste minimization programs. The County explores and implements all feasible opportunities to minimize landfill waste, including through recycling of additional materials, prohibitions or limitations on materials that cannot be recycled/composted, education around conscious consumption, and opportunities to divert waste materials for reuse. 2030 2045 GHG emissions reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 520 2,530 Strategy NW-3 Co-benefits: Increased economic opportunities Increased resilience to pests Reduced resource use Strategy NW-3 Actions:  Create a source-reduction program in partnership with regional agencies to promote rethinking, refusing, reducing, reusing, and regenerating of materials.  Improve educational efforts to promote better waste sorting among community members.  Work with waste haulers to expand the types of materials accepted by recycling programs as economic conditions allow.  Work with waste haulers to continue availability of curbside pickup recycling services. The Five Rs Recycling and composting are critical steps to decreasing the amount of waste that the County sends to a landfill. However, recycling and composting still should be treated as a last resort. Prior to sending something to a recycling or composting center (or landfill if no alternative exists), community members should try to reduce the amount of waste produced in the first place, by following the five Rs: Rethink whether it is necessary to buy something. Refuse to buy something that produces excess waste. Reduce the amount of waste generated. Reuse items that would otherwise be treated as waste. Regenerate waste products into something useful often through recycling. Page 118CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 87  Evaluate the feasibility of banning single-use plastics or establishing additional restrictions beyond those created by SB 54.  Encourage the use of reusable items over disposable materials.  Promote the Contra Costa County Recycling Market Development Zone low-interest loan program to incentivize the development of businesses that use recycled materials. NW-4: Reduce emissions from landfill gas. After it is deposited in landfills, waste gradually decomposes and releases landfill gas. Landfill gas contains both carbon dioxide and methane, making this gas a potent contributor to GHG emissions and regional air pollutants. Most, but not all, of this gas is captured and used to generate energy, produce fuels, or flared. The gas that is not captured escapes into the atmosphere, adding to the county’s GHG emissions. Increasing the percentage of captured landfill gas both helps the County meet its GHG emissions reduction goals and improve local air quality. Strategy NW-4 improves the landfill gas capture rate, increases opportunities to use landfill gas as an alternative energy source, and reduces the rate of flaring of landfill gas. 2030 2045 GHG emissions reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 57,460 61,410 Strategy NW-4 Co-benefits: Greater energy independence Improved air quality Strategy NW-4 Actions:  Encourage efforts at Acme, Keller Canyon, and West Contra Costa landfills to install or enhance existing methane capture technology and associated monitoring systems with a goal of increasing the methane capture rate to the greatest extent feasible.  Explore opportunities for partnering with agricultural and industrial operations to generate energy from methane gas generated by their ongoing activities.  Support landfill operators in efforts to transition away from landfill gas flaring. Page 119CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 4 88 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 REDUCE WATER USE AND INCREASE DROUGHT RESILIENCE (DR) CONTRA COSTA COUNTY USES LESS WATER AND COMMUNITIES ARE PREPARED FOR DROUGHT. Communities can reduce water use and protect themselves from the effects of drought through implementation of strategies to increase indoor water use efficiency and reduce outdoor water use. Increasing water use efficiency and decreasing outdoor water use reduce GHGs by reducing the amount of energy needed to process, heat, and deliver water. In addition to saving energy, water conservation and efficiency helps protect one of California’s most precious resources and helps the county become more resilient to drought and water shortage. In addition, reducing water use in individual homes and businesses can reduce utility costs. Contra Costa County possesses both surface and groundwater resources. In California, groundwater quality and sustainability are ensured through the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA). The SGMA establishes a local management structure for groundwater, led by Groundwater Sustainability Agencies (GSAs). GSAs are responsible for authoring and implementing the local Groundwater Sustainability Plan. GSAs active in Contra Costa County include the City of Antioch GSA, City of Brentwood GSA, Byron- Bethany Irrigation District GSA, Contra Costa County GSA, Diablo Water District GSA, Discovery Bay GSA, East Contra Costa Irrigation District GSA, East Bay Municipal Utilities District GSA, and Zone 7 GSA. Drought-tolerant landscapes and native plants have lower water demands than other plant species. Page 120CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 89 DR-1: Reduce indoor and outdoor water use. This strategy reduces water use in communities and at County facilities. This includes efforts to promote water conservation; increase the acreage of native and drought-tolerant landscaping; encourage graywater/rainwater catchment systems and supportive infrastructure; and provide incentives to reduce water use as appropriate. 2030 2045 GHG emissions reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 970 1,440 Strategy DR-1 Co-benefits: Cost savings Increased resilience to pests Reduced resource use Strategy DR-1 Actions:  Require new development to reduce potable water consumption through use of water- efficient devices and technology, drought-tolerant landscaping strategies, and recycled water, where available. (COS-P7.1)  Require homes and businesses to install water-efficient fixtures at time of retrofit activities, in accordance with the California Building Standards Code.  Continue to enforce the Model Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance and encourage the use of native and drought-tolerant landscaping for exempt residential and commercial landscapes through partnership with local and regional water agencies and other organizations.  Partner with water and wastewater service providers, Groundwater Sustainability Agencies, irrigation districts, and private well owners to increase participation in water conservation programs countywide. (COS-P7.2)  Facilitate offering of BayREN water bill savings programs through eligible community water providers.  Encourage the installation of graywater and rainwater catchment systems, particularly for new construction, as feasible for wastewater infrastructure. Reduce regulatory The average Contra Costa resident uses 126 gallons of water per day. Page 121CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 4 90 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 barriers for these systems and explore creating incentives for installing these systems in new and existing buildings.  Identify opportunities for graywater use in public spaces and implement them as feasible.  Promote the installation of composting toilets at appropriate County facilities in locations without wastewater service. DR-2: Ensure sustainable and diverse water supplies. This strategy supports efforts to diversify the sources of Contra Costa County’s water supplies and ensure that water supplies are viable for the long-term. This is a supportive policy that does not create its own GHG emission reductions. Strategy DR-2 Co-benefits: Greater community resilience Reduced resource use Strategy DR-2 Actions:  Encourage Contra Costa Health to work with Groundwater Sustainability Agencies to ensure that new well permit applications are in accordance with County ordinances and State construction standards and require a hydrogeological evaluation in areas with known water shortages to ensure that the sustainable yield goals can be met.  Require new development to demonstrate the availability of a safe, sanitary, and environmentally sound water delivery and wastewater treatment systems with adequate capacity. (PFS-P4.5, PFS-P4.6)  Discourage new development that may reasonably lead to groundwater overdraft, subsidence, or other negative impacts, or which may reasonably depend on the import of unsustainable quantities of water from outside the county.  Require the use of permeable surfaces for new or reconstructed hardscaped areas.  In coordination with Groundwater Sustainability Agencies, expand opportunities for groundwater recharge.  Work with water suppliers to expand recycled water systems as feasible, including considering additional treatment to allow for additional recycled water uses. Page 122CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 91 CLEAN TRANSPORTATION NETWORK (TR) CONTRA COSTA COUNTY’S TRANSPORTATION NETWORK PROVIDES SAFE AND ACCESSIBLE OPTIONS FOR WALKING, BIKING, AND TRANSIT. IF RESIDENTS AND WORKERS ARE DRIVING, THEY ARE IN ZERO-EMISSION VEHICLES. Transportation is an integral part of living life and conducting business for nearly all members of the Contra Costa County community. The range of transportation options that the County invests in and that are useful for the public has profound impacts on GHG emissions, local environmental quality, public safety, and overall quality of life. Private vehicle travel is convenient, but releases significant volumes of GHGs, increases the maintenance demand on roads, creates toxic particulates through tire wear and brake dust, increases congestion, requires significant personal investment, hinders active modes of transportation, and is a significant source of death and injury. Increasing the safe, affordable, accessible, active, and reliable transportation options available to communities makes it easier for all residents to participate in public life and gives all community members the freedom to choose transportation modes that promote health, reduce fuel costs and time lost in traffic, and help the County meet its GHG emissions reduction goals. The 2024 CAP diversifies the County’s transportation landscape by recommending investments in active transportation, micromobility, public transit, complete streets, and roadway safety and ensuring that employers offer alternative commuting options for their employees. The County is committed to enhancing active transportation by promoting access and connectivity for all modes of travel besides automobile travel. Active transportation encompasses any self-propelled, human-powered travel, such as walking and bicycling. The County’s Active Transportation Plan 8 serves as a roadmap to enhance active transportation safety and mode share for unincorporated areas in Contra Costa County by providing a comprehensive look at the County’s active transportation needs and opportunities. The Micromobility is a category of affordable, lightweight transportation ideal for trips of five miles or less and designed for individual use. Micromobility devices can be personally owned bicycles, e-bikes, electric scooters and electric skateboards, or shared bikes, e-bikes, and e- scooters. -Contra Costa 511.org Page 123CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 4 92 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 plan outlines investments in new bicycle facilities, upgraded crossings, enhanced trail connections, and improved walkways. While the County works to have a wide suite of transportation options available, passenger and commercial automobile use will continue to be a large part of Contra Costa County’s transportation mix. However, different fuels have different levels of carbon intensity. Gasoline and diesel-fueled vehicles in particular release more carbon dioxide into the atmosphere than vehicles that use electricity or hydrogen fuels, even when accounting for how the electricity or hydrogen is generated. Increasing use of cleaner transportation fuels will be a key to help reduce the County’s transportation emissions. Ensuring that cleaner fuels are affordable, accessible, and easy to use means helping communities address the up-front costs of acquiring an electric or other clean-fuel vehicle and ensuring that refueling infrastructure, such as EV charging stations, is equitably distributed throughout and across communities. Additionally, the County aims to increase the use of clean fuels in its own vehicle fleet and promote the use of clean fuels among transportation providers such as taxis and ridesharing programs. County Employees on Bike to Work Day: Karin Deas (left), John Steere and Joe Lawlor (right) Page 124CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 93 TR-1: Improve the viability of walking, biking, zero-emission commuting, and using public transit for travel within, to, and from the county. This strategy reduces vehicle miles traveled (VMT) in Contra Costa County by making it easier for people to bike, walk, roll, and take public transit. This strategy incorporates the County’s commitments to implement the Contra Costa Active Transportation Plan, Complete Streets Policy, Vision Zero Action Plan, and other County policies to facilitate location of new development to minimize car dependency. Contra Costa County’s Complete Streets Policy was adopted in 2016. This policy promotes rethinking street design to ensure that streets adequately serve all users and are sensitive to local traffic conditions. All departments and agencies of Contra Costa County are required to work towards making Complete Streets practices a routine part of everyday operations and are considered for all development projects. Adopted in March 2022, the County’s Active Transportation Plan serves as a roadmap to enhance active transportation safety and mode share for unincorporated Contra Costa County by providing a comprehensive look at the county’s active transportation needs and opportunities. The plan outlines investments in new bicycle facilities, upgraded crossings, enhanced trail connections, and improved walkways. In March 2022, the County also adopted the Action Plan from the Vision Zero Final Report.9 Created by the Public Works Department, this plan commits the County to the Vision Zero goal of reducing vehicle collisions by promoting safe vehicles, safe speeds, safe roads, and post-crash care. Active Transportation Plan The Active Transportation Plan aims to: • Prioritize active transportation investments based on factors such as collision history or systemic risk, location in an impacted community, location near key destinations, and funding opportunities. • Shift trip modes by Contra Costa County residents and visitors from motor vehicles to active modes such as walking and biking. • Provide a vision for arterials and collector streets within the unincorporated county roadway network to assist County departments in planning for private development, capital projects, and maintenance efforts. Page 125CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 4 94 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 The County also supports legislation that enhances accessibility to quality transit, protects vulnerable road users, increases transit service, ensures transit is safe and affordable, and identifies strategies and funding to implement recommendations in the 2019 Employee Commute Survey for County employees. 2030 2045 GHG emissions reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 17,050 40,370 Strategy TR-1 Co-benefits: Cost savings Greater community resilience Improved air quality Improved community equity Improved public health Reduced resource use Strategy TR-1 Actions:  Track over time projects that add pedestrian and bicycle facilities to document the County’s implementation of the County Road Improvement and Preservation Program (CRIPP); Complete Streets checklist; Vision Zero Report and Action Plan; Active Transportation Plan; and equity-focused plans, programs, and policies.  Improve the safety and comfort of bicycle, pedestrian, and public transit facilities using best practices to encourage more people to use such facilities.  Work with CCTA to fill gaps in the countywide Low-Stress Bike Network, as outlined in the 2018 Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan. Prioritize providing access for Impacted Communities and constructing protected bicycle facilities.  In collaboration with key partners, support efforts to establish or join a shared mobility program that provides access to conventional bicycles, e-bikes, and other micromobility modes.  Support efforts to expand the service area and frequency of regional transit agencies, including AC Transit, BART, Capitol Corridor, County Connection, Tri Delta Transit, the San Francisco Bay Ferry, and WestCAT. Page 126CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 95  Maximize development of jobs and affordable housing near high-quality transit service to support a jobs-housing balance.  Market the county’s Northern Waterfront to attract innovative companies with jobs for residents.  Maintain in place and enforce a Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Ordinance that reflects best practices and, at a minimum, conforms to Contra Costa Transportation Authority’s adopted model TDM ordinance or resolution. (GM-P3.5)  Improve county-wide safety for cyclists by advocating for the passage of Vulnerable Road User Laws.  Secure additional funding for the maintenance and expansion of bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure improvements. Support efforts to obtain additional funding to maintain and expand public transit operations and infrastructure improvements.  Support CCTA to develop and implement methods for tracking EV and e-bike charging and availability across jurisdictions.  Support CCTA and regional transit agencies in providing “last mile” transportation connections and options.  Encourage and support increased regional integration of transit systems to promote more equitable fare structures, fare integration, easier transfers, including coordinated transfers between different transit systems and reduced wait times, improved information sharing, and generally a more seamless and modern system. Contra Costa Centre Overcrossing Page 127CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 4 96 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 TR-2: Increase the use of zero-emission vehicles. Transition to a zero- emission County fleet by 2035 and a community fleet that is at least 50 percent zero-emission by 2030. Implementation of this strategy will help increase the share of zero- emission vehicles on the road. The County will encourage all residents and businesses (including heavy-duty vehicle operators) to transition to zero-emission vehicles, enforce the County vehicle purchasing policy, promote electric vehicle sharing services, and ensure adequate electric vehicle charging and other zero-emission fueling infrastructure in new and existing development. 2030 2045 GHG emissions reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 148,000 332,850 Strategy TR-2 Co-benefits: Cost savings Improved air quality Improved community equity Improved public health Reduced resource use There are approximately 33,850 zero-emission or plug-in hybrid vehicles registered in Contra Costa County, or about 3.9 percent of all light-duty vehicles, as of the end of 2021. Statewide, about 2.9 percent of light-duty vehicles are zero-emission or plug-in hybrid. However, this number is growing rapidly. In the first half of 2022, approximately 22.7 percent of light- duty vehicle sales in Contra Costa County were zero- emission or plug-in hybrid, higher than all but five counties in California. Approximately 84 percent of vehicles in Contra Costa County are projected to be electric by 2045. Page 128CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 97 Strategy TR-2 Actions:  Require new County vehicles to be zero-emission to the extent a viable vehicle is available on the market, that charging or zero-emission fueling equipment is conveniently located where the vehicle will be stored, and as required by the Advanced Clean Fleet regulations, with the goal that all County vehicles will be zero-emission by 2035.  Install electric vehicle charging equipment and other infrastructure needed to support the transition to a zero-emission County fleet at County facilities. Consider the appropriate locations, number, and capacity of infrastructure to facilitate the transition of the County fleet to zero-emission vehicles.  Provide incentives for zero-emission vehicles in partnership with MCE, BAAQMD, and other agencies. Advanced Clean Car Standards California has a set of regulations adopted in recent years to encourage the transition to zero- emission vehicles. The Innovative Clean Transit regulation, first adopted in 2018, requires that all new buses purchased by transit agencies in California must be zero-emission by 2029. There are earlier milestones for zero-emission bus purchases depending on the size of the agency. The regulation also requires that transit agencies plan to fully transition to zero-emission buses by 2040. The Advanced Clean Trucks regulation, adopted in 2020, requires an increase in the number of new zero-emission medium- and heavy-duty vehicles sold in California. This regulation covers freight trucks, delivery vans, large pickup trucks, and other large vehicles. The targets vary by vehicle type, but the State expects that 63 percent of new trucks will be zero-emission by 2035. The Advanced Clean Car II standards, adopted in 2022, requires that all new passenger cars, trucks, and SUVs sold in California be zero-emission by 2035. Beginning in 2026, 35 percent of new passenger vehicles sold in the state must be zero-emission. The Advanced Clean Fleets regulation, adopted in 2023, applies to government and large private vehicle fleets. It requires that most vehicle types sold to fleet operators be zero- emission. For local governments such as Contra Costa County, at least 50 percent of new vehicle purchases must be zero-emission starting in 2024, increasing to 100 percent in 2027. Page 129CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 4 98 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023  Work with property owners and other potential partners to pursue installation of zero- emission vehicle charging stations in and near multifamily dwelling units.  Update off-street parking ordinance to include a requirement for zero-emission vehicle charging infrastructure. Consider including incentives for developers to exceed minimum requirements (i.e., density bonus).  Increase installation of electric vehicle charging stations for all vehicle types, including bicycles and scooters, at public facilities, emphasizing increased installation in Impacted Communities.  In partnership with regional agencies, explore providing subsidies for households making less than the area median income to purchase or lease zero-emission vehicles and associated infrastructure.  Pursue fees and regulatory efforts to convert transportation network company (TNC), taxi, and similar car-hire services to zero-emission vehicles.  Explore opportunities for implementing electric vehicle sharing programs.  Work with BAAQMD and other regional agencies to convert off-road equipment to zero- emission clean fuels.  Work with contractors, fleet operations, logistics companies, and other operators of heavy-duty vehicles to accelerate the transition to zero-emission heavy-duty vehicles.  Work with Public Works to pursue the use of renewable natural gas (sourced from recovered organic waste) for transportation fuel, electricity, or heating applications in cases where battery-electric, hybrid-electric, and sustainably sourced hydrogen fuel-cell sources are not available.  Encourage efforts to maximize EV charging during solar peak hours.  Support implementation of the Contra Costa County Electric Vehicle Readiness Blueprint. Page 130CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 99 Electric vehicles like this one in the County’s fleet help to significantly reduce GHG emissions associated with transportation. Page 131CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 4 100 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 RESILIENT COMMUNITIES AND NATURAL INFRASTRUCTURE (NI) CONTRA COSTA COUNTY WILL INCREASE RESILIENCE TO CLIMATE HAZARDS AND FOSTER COMMUNITY HEALTH. Most of the strategies for Resilient Communities and Natural Infrastructure are not associated with GHG emissions savings. NI-4 is included here because it both contributes significantly to the County’s resilience efforts and results in measurable GHG emissions reductions. See Chapter 5 for a detailed description of other strategies that fall under this goal. NI-4: Sequester carbon on natural and working lands in Contra Costa County. This strategy increases opportunities to store carbon through carbon sequestration on public and private lands, increased tree planting by the County and public and private partners, and installation of green infrastructure. Additional actions pertaining to tree planting are in strategy NI-5 in Chapter 5. 2030 2045 GHG emissions reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 22,630 88,910 Strategy NI-4 Co-benefits: Enhanced recreation opportunities Greater community resilience Improved air quality Improved public health Increased economic opportunities Increased resilience to pests Page 132CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 101 Strategy NI-4 Actions:  Pursue implementation of recommendations from the carbon sequestration feasibility study, Healthy Lands, Healthy People.  Continue to support and work with key partners to maintain existing and establish new pilot programs for carbon sequestration on agricultural land.  Promote restorative agricultural and landscaping techniques that incorporate cover crops, mulching, compost application, field borders, alley cropping, conservation crop rotation, prescribed grazing, and reduced tillage to promote healthy soil and soil conservation. (COS-P2.11)  Support soil conservation and restoration programs. Encourage agricultural landowners to work with agencies such as the USDA’s NRCS and Contra Costa RCD to reduce erosion and soil loss. (COS-P2.10)  Coordinate with farming groups, ranchers, the Contra Costa Resource Conservation District, and the University of California Cooperative Extension to identify and promote varieties of feedstock, livestock, and crops that are resilient to rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns and that increase carbon sequestration.  Explore ways to increase carbon sequestration on County-owned facilities.  Partner with regional landowners and agencies to establish local carbon sequestration programs and incentives.  Consider the development of carbon offset protocols and guidance for use by carbon sequestration program applicants and County permitting staff to promote appropriate sequestration on natural and developed lands.  Ensure that any local or regional carbon sequestration program that the County establishes, promotes, supports, or joins demonstrates benefits to unincorporated communities that face environmental justice issues.  Explore the potential for the public to support tree planting and maintenance of existing trees. (COS-P6.2) Healthy Lands, Healthy People Contra Costa County completed a feasibility study in 2023 to explore how agriculture, parks, gardens, and open space in the county could be used to sequester carbon and support carbon neutrality efforts. The study is funded by a grant from the California Department of Conservation. Its findings have informed quantification assumptions for Strategy NI-4. Implementation of the recommendations in this study will inform future updates of this 2024 CAP. Page 133CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 4 102 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023  Establish a mechanism to support expanded tree planting and maintenance activities, particularly in areas with few trees.  Support protection, restoration, and enhancement of creeks, wetlands, marshes, sloughs, and tidelands, and emphasize the role of these features in climate change resilience, air and water quality, and wildlife habitat. (COS-P5.1)  Inventory wetlands, floodplains, marshlands, and adjacent lands that could potentially support climate adaptation (e.g., through flood management, filtration, or other beneficial ecosystem services) and mitigation (e.g., carbon sequestration). (COS-A5.1)  Encourage and support conservation of natural lands outside the urban limit line in the unincorporated county.  Explore the creation of a Climate Resilience District.  Require that any mitigation of air quality impacts occur on-site to the extent feasible to provide the greatest benefit to local residents. For mitigation that relies on offsets, require that the offsets be obtained from sources as near to the project site as possible. If the project site is within or adjacent to an Impacted Community, require offsets or mitigation within that community unless determined infeasible by the County. (HS-P1.6) Climate Resilience Districts Climate resilience districts are special districts that can raise and allocate money to fund projects and operations that address climate change adaptation efforts, such as those to help protect against sea level rise, wildfire, and drought. They have the authority to establish special taxes, assessments, or other charges. Local governments may establish climate resilience districts under Assembly Bill 852, adopted in 2022. Page 134CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 103 Achieving Our Goals County staff developed a set of 11 GHG emission reduction strategies and assessed the GHG emission reduction potential of these strategies, given the project team’s reasonable understanding of available resources and what seemed appropriate for the unincorporated area. Appendix B provides detailed information about the GHG emission reduction potential of these strategies. These GHG emission reduction potentials are intended to be a starting point. They are based on the best available information, the experience and expertise of County staff, and known resources and capabilities. It is possible to achieve greater reductions if there is more confidence in higher levels of participation or development of additional programs. Table 10 shows the expected GHG emission levels with these strategies enacted, TABLE 10. GHG EMISSIONS WITH 2024 CAP DRAFT REDUCTION STRATEGIES, 2019 TO 2045 SECTOR 2019 2030 2045 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2019–2045 Transportation 464,040 277,450 65,660 -86% Residential Energy 191,780 117,440 21,730 -89% Nonresidential Energy 159,520 114,720 10,430 -93% Solid Waste 220,760 146,270 137,070 -38% Agriculture 36,130 34,770 33,410 -8% Off-road Equipment 54,010 54,150 35,640 -34% Water and Wastewater 4,870 3,610 1,470 -70% BART 190 150 50 -74% Land Use and Sequestration -70,860 -90,210 -147,800 109% Total Annual MTCO2e 1,060,440 658,300 157,610 -85% Note: Due to rounding, totals may not equal the sum of the individual values With the reductions currently projected from the 2024 GHG emissions reduction strategies, GHG emissions for the unincorporated county are expected to be reduced to 86 percent below 1990 levels, equal to 88 percent below baseline 2005 levels or 85 percent below With the reductions currently projected from the 2024 CAP strategies, GHG emissions for the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County are expected to fall to 1.47 MTCO2e per person. This is 55 percent below GHG emissions without the 2024 CAP. Page 135CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 4 104 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 2019 levels. These reductions are predicted to occur across most GHG emission sectors, though emissions within the Solid Waste sector will continue to be affected by previously deposited waste continuing to decompose in landfills. As noted previously, there is the potential for these strategies to yield additional GHG emission reductions as County staff and decision makers develop and institute implementation actions and monitor the results. With these reductions as currently assessed, unincorporated Contra Costa County achieves the GHG emissions reduction goals for 2030 and 2045, as shown in Table 11. TABLE 11. 2024 GHG EMISSION REDUCTIONS AND REGULATORY GOALS 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E GHG emissions reduction goals 658,700 164,680 GHG emissions with CAP strategies 658,300 157,610 Gap to GHG emission reduction goal* -400 -7,070 Note: Due to rounding, totals may not equal the sum of the individual values. * Negative values mean that the strategies reduce GHG emissions to below the goal. THE 2024 CAP AND CARBON NEUTRALITY The 2024 CAP achieves significant reductions in GHG emissions and places Contra Costa County on a path to support statewide carbon neutrality by 2045. Currently, there is insufficient guidance and certainty around local carbon sequestration, storage, and potential carbon offset strategies to mathematically demonstrate with certainty that the 2024 CAP will achieve carbon neutrality by 2045. However, the County believes that such guidance and certainty will emerge in future years as the County, regional agencies, and the State further explore the opportunities, develop guidance and methods, and validate new technology. When available, guidance on quantifying how to achieve carbon neutrality will be integrated into future updates of this 2024 CAP. For the foreseeable future, achieving the County’s GHG emissions reductions goals, including carbon neutrality, will likely not be feasible without the use of local carbon sequestration, notably on natural and working lands. Although GHG emissions can be eliminated from many of the County’s GHG emissions sources, this is not practical for every source given technical, economic, or political considerations. Assuming implementation of the strategies in this 2024 CAP, Figure 15 shows the major sources of Contra Costa County’s remaining GHG emissions in 2045. Page 136CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 4. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 105 FIGURE 15. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY 2045 GHG EMISSIONS WITH IMPLEMENTATION OF 2024 CAP Note: Not including emissions associated with land use and sequestration. The County should take advantage of future opportunities to reduce the GHG emissions from these sources as much as possible, ideally to zero. However, for GHG emissions that cannot be feasibly reduced in the short and near term, carbon sequestration and related strategies to remove carbon from the atmosphere may be able to “cancel out” these emissions so that the County’s net GHG emissions from remaining sources are zero. 0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100% Landfills On-road vehicles Off-road equipment Agricultural activities Building natural gas use Solid waste generation Other emissions Landfills (34%) On-road vehicles (20%) Off-road equipment (11%) Agriculture (10%) Building natural gas use (7%) Solid waste (7%) Others (11%) Page 137CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 4 106 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 This page intentionally left blank. Page 138CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION PLAN Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 107 5. CLIMATE ADAPTATION STRATEGY 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Vulnerability Assessment Summary Contra Costa County prepared a vulnerability assessment that examines how people and assets in the county may be affected by the hazards related to climate change discussed in Chapter 3. This vulnerability assessment considers how severe the effects of these hazards are likely to be and identifies the groups of people and assets who face the greatest potential for harm. It considers both the current and future climate conditions in the unincorporated area of the county following the methods recommended by the California Adaptation Planning Guide prepared by the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services. An abridged version of the key vulnerability assessment results is presented here. Appendix C provides detailed information on the vulnerability assessment methods and results. Some hazards can occur virtually anywhere in Contra Costa County or may affect the entire county. This includes drought, human health hazards, and air quality impacts. Other hazards are much more likely in specific locations, such as landslides and flooding. However, people and assets outside of affected areas may still be harmed if the hazard creates a series of cascading impacts that ripple beyond the immediate hazard zone. For example, a fire near Orinda may close Highway 24 and the BART tracks in that area, interrupting BART service in the central and east parts of Contra Costa County and causing traffic congestion on alternate routes. The vulnerability assessment considers these indirect impacts and reflects them in its scores. Page 139CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 5 108 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 EFFECTS ON POPULATIONS Although climate change will affect everyone, some populations in the unincorporated county are likely to be affected more than others. This can include the risk of injury, death, or property damage or destruction, and can also include economic impacts and loss of income, behavioral and mental health impacts, and an overall decrease in quality of life. Impacted Communities, who have been historically under-resourced and are already more likely to face constraints such as limited financial resources, reduced access to education and job opportunities, and increased exposure to environmental hazards, are likely to be further affected as climate change–related hazards increase in frequency and severity. Other groups of people are also likely to be disproportionately affected, including senior citizens, renters, and persons with chronic health conditions. People with limited financial means, such as low-income persons and cost-burdened households (those who must spend more than 30 percent of their income on housing) are often vulnerable because they may lack the resources to retrofit their home against hazardous conditions or to move to an area with less risk. For example, low-income persons are less likely to live in homes that have reliable air conditioning and may not be able to afford to install these systems themselves, which puts them at greater risk of harm from extreme temperatures. They also face greater vulnerabilities because they may be less able to withstand a temporary loss of income if their work is affected by climate change–related hazards. People who work in outdoor activities, such as construction, agriculture, and recreation, are usually more susceptible. Lack of access to resources not only includes financial resources, but also communication, transportation, education, and other community services. Even people who are relatively well-off financially can be disproportionately affected by climate change–related hazards if they are physically or socially isolated. For example, persons with limited English proficiency may not be able to interact with officials, and persons without lifelines such as transportation, or broadband internet or other forms of reliable communication, may not be able to get accurate information about hazardous situations. This often makes it harder for them to get the resources needed to prepare for or respond to an emergency. Renters Due to the high cost of living in Contra Costa County, “low-income households” include some households who might be considered financially well off in other places. In 2022, a family of four in Contra Costa County is considered “low- income” if its annual income is lower than $109,600. Page 140CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 109 face similar threats because even if they have the financial resources to adapt to changing conditions, they have limited control over their home. Physical constraints can also make people more susceptible to climate change. Persons with disabilities may find it harder to prepare for hazardous events, and some hazards can exacerbate chronic health conditions and create a greater threat for persons with these conditions. Young children and senior citizens are disproportionately affected by some hazards, such as extreme heat and air pollution, even if they are entirely healthy. Senior citizens living alone are often at greater risk since they are more likely to be socially isolated. Persons with physical constraints are also more likely to need assistance during evacuations. The health equity of populations is also closely associated with racism, historic discrimination, and a wide range of socioeconomic conditions. The 2024 CAP includes “place-based strategies”, such as efforts to enhance availability and access to resources and physical infrastructure. These strategies advance the County’s efforts to address GHG emissions as well as offer enhanced resilience in Impacted Communities. EFFECTS ON BUILDINGS AND INFRASTRUCTURE The vulnerability assessment considers the effects of climate change–related hazards on buildings and infrastructure, including private homes and businesses, public facilities such as government offices and libraries, and important institutions such as schools and hospitals. This category also includes infrastructure networks such as the electrical grid, roadways, rail lines, and water and wastewater systems. Buildings and infrastructure in hazard-prone areas are naturally vulnerable to damage or destruction from hazards that occur in those areas, such as floods, landslides, sea level rise, and wildfires. Designing new structures to be more resilient against these hazards or hardening existing ones to better resist them can help reduce the threat. The loss of key buildings and infrastructure systems can create potentially severe effects throughout the county. The loss of homes in a natural disaster means that a potentially large group of people must be temporarily housed while their homes go through the lengthy reconstruction process. Some people may choose not to return to their former community. Damages to businesses can cause economic harm to business owners and employees as well as members of various communities. For example, sea level rise and coastal flooding can interrupt many of the industrial and manufacturing centers located along the Contra Costa County shoreline, creating temporary or permanent loss of income for their employees, with possible cascading impacts such as harming the tax base and well-being of various communities. Page 141CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 5 110 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Infrastructure networks, despite their county-spanning size, are also vulnerable to disruption from hazards related to climate change. Damage to just one or a few key nodes or components of an infrastructure system can cause a chain reaction that restricts or shuts down the network across a much wider area. For example, 26 bridges in Contra Costa County are in areas at risk of a 100-year flood or dam inundation. Even though these bridges make up a very small portion of the overall roadway network in the county, damage to them can force travelers to take potentially long and congested detours or may render some areas completely inaccessible. Loss of key buildings or parts of infrastructure networks can also harm important community services that rely on these networks. This is particularly true for transportation infrastructure, such as roads and railways. If these systems are damaged or blocked, this can also block access by emergency response and public transit services vehicles. Even if alternate buildings and infrastructure networks are available, the alternatives may not be able to accommodate the change in demand. For example, 10 schools in Contra Costa County are in high and very high fire hazard severity zones. Although this is a relatively small proportion of the overall number of schools in the county, if some of these schools are damaged by wildfires, there may not be capacity at other, unharmed schools to take in all the displaced students. Contra Costa County’s infrastructure networks are connected to much larger regional, State, and national systems. These systems are vulnerable to disruption from outside of Contra Costa County, resulting in a loss of service to community members. For example, most of the water used in the unincorporated areas of the county is imported from the Sierra Nevada through a complex system of pumps, aqueducts, and reservoirs. Damage at any point along this system can affect Contra Costa County’s water supply, causing restricted water service. Many components of this system pass through eastern Contra Costa County and other low-lying areas of the Delta region, where they are particularly vulnerable to sea level rise. Buildings and infrastructure do not need to be physically damaged to trigger a loss of service. For example, extreme heat makes the machinery of the power grid run less efficiently and simultaneously increases demand to meet greater cooling needs. This combination raises the risk of the grid overloading and causing brownouts or blackouts. Similarly, drought conditions harm water delivery services but do not cause physical damage to pipes or water treatment plants. Economic drivers can also be affected without experiencing physical damage, such as when businesses are forced to close because of a public health emergency. Page 142CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 111 EFFECTS ON ECOSYSTEMS AND NATURAL RESOURCES Many of the ecosystems and other natural resources in California are unique to the state and have evolved under local conditions, including climate patterns. However, the unprecedented rate of change in the climate system can rapidly create local conditions unfavorable to ecosystems, killing them or forcing them out of the area before they have the chance to adapt. Damage or loss of local ecosystems and natural resources is harmful for its own sake, but it also affects the people and economy of Contra Costa County. Many ecosystems provide important services for communities, such as protection against floods and high winds, groundwater recharge and filtration, and home for pollinators and beneficial species. The natural environment provides recreational and tourism opportunities, contributes to the valued character of Contra Costa County, and helps maintain a high quality of life. Climate change often results in species and even entire ecosystems being forced out of their historical range and moving to areas that provide their preferred living conditions. In some cases, there may no longer be places in Contra Costa County that can support these ecosystems, and they disappear from the area. For example, the conifer forests in the hills of west county depend on fog and its cooling benefit in summer temperatures. As temperatures increase and coastal fog is expected to decrease, these trees may not survive. Habitat loss can also exacerbate this problem. For example, in a natural system, wetlands will migrate inland as sea levels rise. However, if the inland areas are blocked by development or other barriers, the wetlands cannot migrate and could disappear. Even if overall temperature and precipitation patterns remain favorable to key ecosystems and natural resources, the increased frequency and severity of some climate change– related hazards can harm these important community assets. Wildfires are a prime example of this. Many ecosystems in California, especially forests, rely on naturally occurring wildfires to remove dead vegetation and return nutrients to the soil, and some species rely on fires for reproduction. However, increases in the intensity of wildfires mean Meadow environments such as this are highly susceptible to several climate change-related hazards. Page 143CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 5 112 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 that trees that could survive relatively low-level fires may not be able to survive much more severe blazes. Similarly, though occasional fires may be beneficial, too-frequent fires can kill young trees before they establish themselves, creating a risk that trees will be replaced by more rapidly growing grasses and brushlands. In some cases, climate change leads to cumulative impacts that can weaken or kill ecosystems. Species that have adapted to be relatively resistant to one or a small number of hazards may still be vulnerable to multiple hazards that happen at the same time or one after another in close succession. For example, forestry pests have long been a presence in California, and though they may kill individual trees or stands of trees, forests and woodlands are generally not significantly affected. However, drought and extreme temperatures weaken trees, making them more vulnerable to pests that could not do serious damage under normal conditions. At the same time, warmer temperatures can increase pest numbers and keep them active for more of the year, so they can do more damage than they could previously. This and similar cumulative effects mean that species and ecosystems that could resist hazardous events under normal conditions may be much more susceptible to them because of climate change. Adaptation Strategies A key goal of the 2024 CAP is to reduce Contra Costa County’s GHG emissions. Combined with other global GHG emissions reduction efforts, the 2024 CAP will help to prevent more severe effects of climate change. However, some degree of climate change is inevitable. Climate conditions in recent years in Contra Costa County are already different from historical conditions, and community members have already observed more frequent and intense climate change–related hazards. Contra Costa County will have to adapt to future climate conditions; acting now or in the short term will help communities be more resilient to climate change–related hazards expected decades in the future. This 2024 CAP includes a set of adaptation strategies. These strategies respond to the key vulnerabilities identified by the vulnerability assessment; concerns about current and future conditions raised by community members and County officials; and best practices in the region and across California to help promote a more unified climate adaptation response. While these climate adaptation strategies do not directly result in measurable GHG emissions reductions, they do support the GHG emissions reduction strategies and contribute to a comprehensive climate change response. Page 144CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 113 The adaptation strategies are organized into two categories, each with its own goal: Climate Equity (CE) Resilient Communities and Natural Infrastructure (NI) As with the GHG emissions reduction strategies, the adaptation strategies support co- benefits, that is, benefits that the strategy provides to communities beyond increased resilience. Cost savings Enhanced recreation opportunities Greater community resilience Greater energy independence Improved air quality Improved community equity Improved public health Increased economic opportunities Increased resilience to pests Reduced disaster effects Reduced landfill waste Reduced resource use General Plan Alignment As with the GHG reduction efforts in Chapter 4, the adaptation goals, strategies, and recommended implementation actions discussed in this chapter align with climate adaptation goals, policies, and actions in the County’s General Plan, as discussed in Chapter 1. When the 2024 CAP and General Plan address similar topics, the language used in both documents is identical or at least consistent, ensuring that both are in sync and provide a unified approach to addressing climate adaptation. Page 145CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 5 114 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 RESILIENT COMMUNITIES AND NATURAL INFRASTRUCTURE (NI) CONTRA COSTA COUNTY WILL INCREASE RESILIENCE TO CLIMATE HAZARDS AND FOSTER COMMUNITY HEALTH. The 2024 CAP takes steps to improve the resilience of Contra Costa County’s unincorporated communities by ensuring that structures and infrastructure are responsive to flooding, sea level rise, fire, heat, and other climate change hazards. Natural features such as trees, soils, and water can help make the county more resilient by absorbing carbon and modulating the effects of heat, sea level rise, and flooding. Community resilience hubs can serve as centralized locations for electricity access, cooling and clean air centers, and emergency preparedness and response resources. In addition to the General Plan, the strategies and actions in this goal integrate with the Contra Costa County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan and the Community Wildfire Protection Plan. The Local Hazard Mitigation Plan assesses risk to people and facilities from hazardous conditions and includes mitigation actions to reduce or eliminate risks, particularly in the short term. The Community Wildfire Protection Plan provides a snapshot of current wildfire protection challenges and capabilities, identifies and prioritizes areas for hazardous fuel reduction, and recommends types and methods of vegetation management that may help protect the affiliated communities from wildfire losses. Hercules waterfront. Photo credit: Emily Groth. Page 146CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 115 NI-1: Protect against and adapt to changes in sea levels and other shoreline flooding conditions. This strategy aims to protect communities against permanent and temporary inundation from rising sea levels and shoreline flooding through green infrastructure, effective building siting and retrofits, and informed land use decisions. Strategy NI-1 Co-benefits: Enhanced recreation opportunities Greater community resilience Reduced disaster impacts Strategy NI-1 Actions:  Require new development to locate habitable areas of buildings above the highest water level expected, accounting for sea level rise and other changes in flood conditions, or construct natural and nature-based features, or a levee, if necessary, adequately designed to protect the project for its expected life. (HS-P6.1)  Support the use of natural infrastructure, including ecosystem restoration and green infrastructure, to protect against sea level rise and associated shoreline flooding.  Coordinate with State and regional agencies, neighboring jurisdictions, property owners, utilities, and others to prepare a sea level rise adaptation plan.  Seek funding and pursue implementation of wetland restoration and other adaptation efforts for sea level rise.  Convene a working group that includes local jurisdictions, local shoreline communities, community-based organizations, property owners, businesses, and other stakeholders to collaborate on shoreline flooding adaptation strategies.  Identify opportunities for employing natural areas as buffers against rising sea levels. Sea level rise and other coastal flooding hazards threaten structures built near the shoreline. Page 147CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 5 116 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 NI-2: Protect against and adapt to increases in the frequency and intensity of wildfire events. This strategy aims to increase community resilience to the direct and indirect effects of wildfires, both locally and regionally. Public and private property shall be designed and maintained to minimize the risk of damage from wildfires; infrastructure systems will be hardened and designed to include redundancy; and emergency management plans and practices for wildfires will be responsive to the needs of Impacted Communities. Strategy NI-2 Co-benefits: Greater community resilience Improved community equity Improved public health Reduced disaster impacts Strategy NI-2 Actions:  Prohibit new residential subdivisions in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones and discourage residential subdivisions in High Fire Hazard Severity Zones.6 (HS-P7.1)  Require any construction of buildings or infrastructure within a High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone in the Local or State Responsibility Areas, or in the Wildland-Urban Interface, to incorporate fire-safe design features that meet the applicable State Fire Safe Regulations and Hazard Reduction Around Buildings and Structures Regulation for road ingress and egress, fire equipment access, and adequate water supply. (HS-P7.2)  Require subdivisions in the High Fire Hazard Severity Zone in the Local or State Responsibility Areas, or projects requiring a land use permit in the High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone in the Local or State Responsibility Areas, to complete a site- specific fire protection plan. Collaborate with the appropriate fire protection district to review and revise the fire protection plans. (HS-P7.3) 6 High and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones are mapped by CAL FIRE. Designations are based on factors that influence fire likelihood and fire behavior. Many factors are considered, such as fire history, existing and potential fuel (natural vegetation), predicted flame length, blowing embers, terrain, and typical fire weather for the area. Page 148CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 117  Work with property owners in mapped High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones or in the Wildland- Urban Interface to establish and maintain fire breaks and defensible space, vegetation clearance, and firefighting infrastructure. (HS-P7.4)  Support undergrounding of utility lines, especially in the Wildland-Urban Interface and Fire Hazard Severity Zones. (HS-P7.8)  Review indoor air filtration standards and consider whether filtration requirements can and should be strengthened for projects permitted by the County.  Work with community organizations to help Impacted Communities have access to financing and other resources to reduce the fire risk on their property, prepare for wildfire events, and allow for a safe and speedy recovery. NI-3: Establish and maintain community resilience hubs. The intent of this strategy is to establish and maintain community resilience hubs with microgrids, education, training opportunities, and other community-focused resources. Under this strategy, the County develops a feasibility analysis and implementation plan for siting community resilience hubs across the county, with attention to Impacted Communities, and identifies opportunities for battery storage projects at County facilities. County emergency planners help enact this strategy by ensuring emergency response plans include climate change disasters such as wildfires, sea level rise, flooding, extreme heat, and drought. These efforts emphasize equitable recovery for Impacted Communities and those affected by environmental justice issues. Fire Protection Plans According to General Plan Policy HS-P7.3, a fire protection plan shall include measures for fire- resistant construction materials and modifying fuel loading, as well as a plan to maintain that protection over time. The fire protection plan shall include: a) A risk analysis b) Fire response capabilities c) Defensible space requirements d) Fire safety requirements for infrastructure e) Building ignition resistance f) Mitigation measures and design for non-conforming fuel modification g) Wildfire education h) Maintenance and limitations i) A plan for emergency preparedness, response, and evacuation Page 149CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 5 118 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Strategy NI-3 Co-benefits: Greater community resilience Improved community equity Increased resilience to pests Strategy NI-3 Actions:  Pursue funding to develop a resilience hub master plan that identifies existing community facilities that can serve as resilience hubs and support affected populations during hazard events. This process should start with an assessment of community needs. Such facilities should be distributed equitably throughout the county, with an emphasis on easy access for Impacted Communities. Where appropriate facilities do not exist, develop plans to create new resilience hubs.  Pursue funding to implement the resilience hub master plan, including retrofitting selected facilities to function as resilience hubs. These retrofits should involve adding solar panels, battery backup systems, water resources, supplies to meet basic community and emergency medical needs, and other needs as identified by the resilience hub master plan.  Create a virtual resilience hub that connects County resources to communities through virtual community networks to provide detailed, up-to-date information about preparing for natural disasters, public safety notifications and alerts, space for virtual gathering and information-sharing, and other appropriate uses. Materials shall be accessible in multiple languages.  Coordinate resilience hub activities with planning efforts around public safety power shutoffs and wildfire smoke resiliency. NI-4: Sequester carbon on natural and working lands in Contra Costa County. NI-4 contributes significantly to the County’s resilience efforts, but because it results in measurable GHG emissions reductions, it is part of the County’s GHG emissions reduction approach and is included in Chapter 4. Page 150CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 119 NI-5: Minimize heat island effects through the use of cool roofs and green infrastructure. With this strategy, impacts of heat islands are addressed and minimized through construction practices for buildings and structures, including through ample shading opportunity and other green infrastructure improvements, including green stormwater infrastructure. Strategy NI-5 Co-benefits: Improved air quality Improved community equity Improved public health Increased economic opportunities Reduced disaster impacts Reduced resource use Strategy NI-5 Actions:  Require landscaping for new development to be drought-tolerant, filter and retain runoff, and support flood management and groundwater recharge. (COS-P-7.7)  Promote installation of drought-tolerant green infrastructure, including street trees, in landscaped public areas. (COS-P7.8)  Increase tree planting in urbanized areas and open spaces, where ecologically appropriate, emphasizing areas with limited existing tree cover, using low-maintenance native tree species that are low fire risk, and ensuring water supply resources are not compromised. (COS-P6.2)  Consider preparing and implementing a Tree Master Plan for the unincorporated county.  Provide shade trees or shade structures at parks, plazas, and other outdoor spaces.  Update County tree ordinance to consider whether factors for approval of tree removal and/or replanting requirements are adequately considering Impacted Communities (e.g., tree cover, replanting standard). Page 151CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 5 120 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023  Support efforts to develop incentive programs for home and business owners, school districts, and other local and regional property owners to increase the adoption of cool roofs and green infrastructure on private property. Urban Heat Islands: Tree Cover and Impervious Surfaces The urban heat island effect is one of the most important aspects of how neighborhood conditions can exacerbate extreme heat. Urban heat islands are areas with little tree cover and significant portions of land covered by impervious surfaces or artificial structures covered with impenetrable materials, such as pavement and rooftops. Temperatures in these areas may be significantly hotter than in surrounding areas, especially at night, because impervious surfaces retain heat absorbed throughout the day. Addressing heat islands may also be an important lever for health equity, as researchers have found that low-income people and people of color are more likely to live in areas with land cover characteristics conducive to urban heat islands. Additionally, research has identified a correlation between home values and tree cover, meaning that addressing urban heat islands carries implications for financial equity. Actions to reduce the heat island effect also offer mitigation co-benefits, as increased tree cover can store carbon dioxide, as well as provide shade that reduces energy consumption needed for cooling buildings. Many cities in Contra Costa County contain areas with very little contiguous tree cover, including most of the cities in East and West County, along with significant parts of Martinez, Concord, Danville, and San Ramon. Areas with very high percentages of impervious surfaces exist in many of the same urban areas with little tree cover. Areas with a high percentage of impervious surfaces are concentrated in North Richmond, San Pablo, Richmond, and El Cerrito, and in some tracts in cities in Central and East County. Page 152CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 121 NI-6: Protect communities against additional hazards created or exacerbated by climate change. The goal of this strategy is to reduce impacts from other climate-related hazards, including drought, flooding, landslides, and severe weather. In accordance with this strategy, development projects are sited and designed to reduce exposure to hazardous conditions, and community members receive the support and assistance needed to prepare for and recover from natural disasters. Strategy NI-6 Co-benefits: Cost savings Greater community resilience Greater energy independence Improved community equity Improved public health Increased resilience to pests Reduced disaster impacts Strategy NI-6 Actions:  Discourage new below-market-rate housing in High and Very High Wildfire Hazard Severity Zones, the Wildland-Urban Interface, and Alquist-Priolo Fault Zones. If below- market-rate housing must be constructed within these zones, require it to be hardened or make use of nature-based solutions to remain habitable to the greatest extent possible. (HS-P4.3)  Treat susceptibility to hazards and threats to human health and life as primary considerations when reviewing all development proposals and changes to land uses.  Partner with community-based organizations to provide information to community members about how to prepare for projected climate change hazards.  Promote, and develop as necessary, available funding sources to create incentives for residents and businesses to prepare for natural disasters, particularly members of Impacted Communities.  Consider projected impacts of climate change when siting, designing, and identifying the construction and maintenance costs of capital projects. Page 153CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 5 122 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023  Actively promote and expand participation in local and regional community emergency preparedness and response programs.  Support and fund efforts to enhance ongoing community and cross-sector engagement in community-level resilience and cohesion. Support non-governmental organizations to actively engage in developing a network of community-level actions that enhance resiliency. Page 154CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 123 CLIMATE EQUITY (CE) CONTRA COSTA COUNTY WILL ADDRESS ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS LEADING TO HEALTH DISPARITIES, PROMOTE SAFE AND LIVABLE COMMUNITIES, AND PROMOTE INVESTMENTS THAT IMPROVE NEIGHBORHOOD ACCESSIBILITY. Ensuring that Contra Costa County’s unincorporated communities are a welcoming and resilient home to diverse families, individuals, and businesses as the effects of climate change intensify around the world means ensuring that the County’s climate action strategies are built on a foundation of justice and equity. Equity, justice, and the climate resilience they engender can take many forms across different sectors and include such strategies as supporting family-sustaining jobs in sustainable industries, providing equitably distributed green space, facilitating access to fresh and healthy food, and ensuring that all Contra Costa County departments and citizens are actively engaged in climate action planning. Climate action planning entails mobilizing the entire community to adopt a way of life and way of doing business that will not only weather the disruptions caused by climate change but will continue to thrive far into the future. CE-1: Provide access to affordable, clean, safe, and healthy housing and jobs. Strategy CE-1 aims to ensure that all residents live in clean, healthy homes and neighborhoods; have access to parks, open space, and fresh food; have easy access to safe and affordable mobility options; and are trained for and have access to living wage jobs. The County commits to implementing the 2024 CAP strategies for equitable benefits to Impacted Communities, ensures every County department integrates climate issues and climate-related effects in services to residents, and meaningfully and continuously engages the communities most affected by climate change with developing and implementing appropriate solutions. Page 155CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 5 124 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Strategy CE-1 Co-benefits: Enhanced recreation opportunities Greater community resilience Improved community equity Increased economic opportunities Increased resilience to pests Strategy CE-1 Actions:  In partnership with community-based organizations, reverse community deterioration and blight and improve personal and property safety in neighborhoods throughout Contra Costa County.  Ensure that new housing for households making less than the area median income and housing for other Impacted Communities are outside of hazard-prone areas, including for wildfires, landslides, floods, and sea level rise, or that they are hardened or make use of nature-based solutions to remain habitable to the greatest extent possible. (HS-P4.3)  In partnership with community-based organizations, secure funding to create a program to provide low-cost or free air conditioning and filtration, improved insulation, low- emitting materials, energy solar and storage systems, energy efficiency, and indoor ventilation in homes, emphasizing buildings that are home to Impacted Community members. (SC-A6.2)  Track development of local micro-grid battery storage policies and systems in other jurisdictions and identify potential opportunities for Contra Costa County.  Encourage companies and entrepreneurs from local universities and national labs to create jobs in such industries as renewable energy, transportation technology, diverse forms of manufacturing, biotech/biomedical, and clean tech.  Partner with local schools, the community college district, community-based organizations, labor unions, Workforce Development Boards, and other appropriate groups to provide training for residents for family-sustaining jobs in sustainable industries. Prioritize training for people currently or recently working in polluting or extractive activities. (SC-P1.1) Page 156CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 125  Provide support for State and federal programs that support family-sustaining jobs in sustainable industries, efforts to support organized labor, and living wage labor standards.  Adopt an ordinance at least as stringent as the State’s maximum idling law, and coordinate with CARB and law enforcement to achieve compliance. (HS-A1.5) CE-2: Invest in solutions to support climate equity. With this strategy in place, County investments support climate equity. The County implements best practices in environmental, social, and governance considerations as the 2024 CAP is implemented. Strategy CE-2 Co-benefits: Improved community equity Increased economic opportunities Strategy CE-2 Actions:  Evaluate and adjust County planning and expenditures for infrastructure and services as needed to ensure equitable investment in Impacted Communities, consistent with SB 1000.  Work with County departments to incorporate addressing climate change, providing climate solutions, and enhancing community equity more fully into County operations and the broad range of services the County provides.  As part of the 2024 CAP and General Plan implementation, consider whether the strategy being implemented provides equitable benefits for Impacted Communities as a criterion for prioritization.  Continually engage communities most affected by climate change in developing and implementing climate solutions and ensure that such solutions provide benefits to Impacted Communities.  Advocate for the Contra Costa Employees Retirement Association to include use of Environmental, Social, and Governance criteria in its investment policies.  Require that the County’s Deferred Compensation Plan provider make available Environmental, Social, and Governance investment options for employees participating in the County’s 457 deferred compensation program. Page 157CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 5 126 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023  Amend the County investment policy to consider the use of Environmental, Social, and Governance criteria and to continue and improve efforts to divest from fossil fuels.  Work with schools, the Contra Costa County Library, business groups, and community- based organizations to educate and inform community members about climate change and related sustainability topics.  Evaluate the issuance of Labeled Bonds, such as “Green”, “Sustainable”, or “Social” bonds, during the planning stage of a bond issuance by the County. It is the County’s preference to issue Labeled Bonds if the evaluation demonstrates a financial or policy benefit to the County. CE-3: Increase access to parks and open space. All County residents have easy access to parks and open space under this strategy. The County has an easily accessible and integrated system of high-quality, safe, and well- maintained parks and trails for all residents of the unincorporated county, including Impacted Communities. Strategy CE-3 Co-benefits: Enhanced recreation opportunities Greater community resilience Improved air quality Improved community equity Improved public health Increased economic opportunities Reduced disaster effects Page 158CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 127 Strategy CE-3 Actions:  Establish a goal for all residents to live within a half- mile of a park or other green space.  Support land acquisition for new parks and open space areas and protect such lands through fee title acquisition or through deed restrictions like conservation easements.  Continue to construct and develop opportunities for new trails.  Support investment in existing park facilities, in partnership with regional agencies.  Increase the tree canopy on public property, especially in Impacted Communities and areas with a high heat index, by prioritizing funding for new street tree planting and maintenance. (HS-P2.2) CE-4: Ensure residents have equitable, year-round access to affordable, local fresh food. With this strategy in place, county residents will have increased access to local fresh food. The County facilitates the creation of more Certified Farmers’ Markets, supports urban gardens, and ensures that healthy food is affordable and accessible to Impacted Communities and those in food desert areas. Strategy CE-4 Co-benefits: Improved community equity Improved public health Increased economic opportunities El Cerrito playground. Photo credit: Amalia Cunningham. Page 159CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 5 128 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Strategy CE-4 Actions:  Support establishment of year-round Certified Farmers’ Markets in all communities, prioritizing Impacted Communities.  Work with community groups to establish and maintain urban gardens, particularly on vacant lots and park land in Impacted Communities. (SC-P4.1)  Encourage major supermarkets to locate in Impacted Communities.  Support co-operative grocery markets in Impacted Communities. Little Sprouts Farm in Bay Point. Page 160CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 5. Climate Adaptation Strategy Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 129 CE-5: Ensure that large industrial facilities act as good neighbors. This strategy helps to make sure that large industrial facilities are good neighbors. The County makes recommendations to responsible permitting agencies regarding permits for fossil-fuel based industries and/or point sources, tracks data on fossil fuel products produced and/or transported in and through Contra Costa County and allows for a Just Transition away from polluting and extractive industries. Strategy CE-5 Co-benefits: Improved air quality Improved community equity Improved public health Increased economic opportunities Strategy CE-5 Actions:  Provide recommendations to responsible permit agencies regarding permits for fossil fuel-based industries and point sources.  Regularly track data on fossil fuel production and transportation in Contra Costa County.  Encourage the economic development of industries and supply chains that emphasize a reduction in GHG emissions.  Encourage economic development and job creation in industries that advance the County’s sustainability goals, using the County’s policy on enhanced infrastructure financing districts.  As economic conditions change, support efforts to phase out heavily polluting and extractive industries and replace them with businesses that contribute to a regenerative and circular economy.  Require new or expanded commercial and industrial projects exceeding 25,000 square feet of gross floor area to be near zero-emission operations, including the facilities themselves and the associated fleets, except for uses with fewer than five vehicles domiciled on-site. Require all necessary measures to achieve near-zero emissions. (HS- P1.8) Page 161CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 5 130 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Collectively, the strategies in this section will help community members and assets adapt to changing climate conditions and improve resilience to climate change–related hazards as well as confer many relevant co-benefits. Unlike the GHG emissions reduction strategies in Chapter 4, adaptation strategies do not have quantitative goals. However, these strategies can contribute to quantified benefits, including reductions in property damage, decreases in the number or severity of hazard events, and preservation of key community standards. These quantified benefits also support performance standards discussed in the General Plan elements. Near-Zero Operations for Large Commercial or Industrial Facilities According to General Plan Policy HS-P1.8, measures to achieve near-zero emissions for large commercial or industrial projects may include: a) Reduce on-site energy consumption and increase on-site energy generation and energy storage. b) Provide adequate on-site zero-emission vehicle-capable parking for all anticipated truck traffic to prevent idling and off-site queuing. c) Provide electrified loading docks with receptables allowing plug-in of refrigerated trailers. d) Use heavy-duty trucks that are model year 2014 or later and expedite a transition to zero-emission trucks by establishing a clear timeline for electrification of trucks as they become commercially available. Ensure contracts with motor carriers include air quality incentives or requirements, such as providing incentives to fleets that meet United States Environmental Protection Agency SmartWay standards or requiring use of zero- emission or near zero-emission trucks. e) Use a “clean fleet” of delivery vehicles as they become commercially available, but no later than 2025. f) Use zero-emission yard equipment, such as forklifts, pallet trucks and jacks, and stackers. g) Implement practices to control and remove fugitive dust and other contaminants from paved areas. Page 162CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION PLAN Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 131 6. R EALIZING THE 2024 CAP 6. Realizing the 2024 CAP Enacting the Climate Action Plan To ensure the success of the 2024 CAP, Contra Costa County will integrate the goals and strategies of this plan into other local and regional plans and prioritize and implement the programs and activities identified herein. As the County updates other planning documents, such as the Municipal and Zoning Codes, or Specific Plans, staff will ensure that these documents support and are consistent with the 2024 CAP. Implementing the 2024 CAP will require County staff and leadership to enact these strategies and report progress. This plan identifies a work plan that includes responsible departments/divisions, time frames, and relative costs associated with each strategy. Staff will monitor progress using an implementation and monitoring tool on an annual basis and will provide an annual update to County decision-makers. The Contra Costa County Sustainability Group, part of the County’s Department of Conservation and Development, is responsible for leading overall implementation of the CAP, and working with other County departments and community partners to implement specific CAP strategies and actions. The following strategies and associated actions are designed to guide Contra Costa County in successfully implementing the 2024 CAP. Page 163CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 6 132 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 LEADERSHIP STRATEGIES (L) CONTRA COSTA COUNTY IS A MODEL FOR HOW LOCAL GOVERNMENT CAN TAKE ACTION ON CLIMATE ISSUES. Advancing meaningful action on climate change requires sustained commitment and active involvement from Contra Costa County government officials, community members, local organizations, regional agencies, and more. The 2024 CAP’s leadership strategies are designed to facilitate the long-range and creative planning that will ensure that Contra Costa County is on the forefront of climate change mitigation and adaptation. These efforts include ensuring that climate action is a priority across County departments and that County staff are equipped to address climate change as part of their work; supporting the development of climate action funding mechanisms; and incorporating analysis of climate change and equity in budgeting decisions. L-1: Establish Contra Costa County as a leader among local governments for addressing climate issues. Strategy L-1 Actions:  Continue to publicize and support the operations of the County’s Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force and Green Government Group (G3) Champions.  Work with all County departments to encourage adoption of best practices from the County’s Green Business Program and other practices that support the County’s climate goals.  Encourage development of new policies and initiatives that support the County’s climate goals.  Explore the creation of funding mechanisms, including a carbon impact fee, to support the County’s Sustainability Fund for investments in County facilities if additional financial resources are needed.  Support legislative efforts to establish a green bank able to equitably finance sustainability projects, including renewable energy, energy efficiency, and green infrastructure, for residential and commercial customers. (COS-A14.10) Page 164CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 6. Realizing the 2024 CAP Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 133  Ensure that funding mechanisms to address climate change minimize or avoid disproportionate financial impacts to Impacted Communities and do not exacerbate economic inequities, to the extent feasible.  Facilitate trainings for County staff on climate change (including the results of the Vulnerability Assessment and 2024 CAP technical work) and how they can support climate action through their work with the County and at home.  Encourage County employees to explore innovative technologies and programs that address climate change.  Incorporate integrated pest management into new construction and retrofit programs on County properties.  Ensure County departments follow the County’s Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Policy and policy requirements are included in the contracting process.  Regularly review and revise the County’s purchasing and contracting programs as necessary to ensure consistency with the County’s sustainability and GHG reduction goals. (HS-A3.2) L-2: Continue to recognize the climate crisis as an emergency for Contra Costa County and make addressing climate change a top County priority. Strategy L-2 Actions:  Continue to implement the 2020 Climate Emergency Resolution approved by the Board of Supervisors, including conducting periodic reviews and updates to the Resolution.  Consider climate vulnerabilities and associated equity effects as factors in the County’s planning and expenditures for infrastructure and services to increase resilience and reduce GHG emissions countywide.  Consider developing standards for the disclosure of climate and equity effects and vulnerabilities in staff reports for all decisions by the Board of Supervisors when such disclosures are helpful and necessary. Explore modifying County processes and forms to include questions to ensure the proposed action is consistent with the 2024 CAP and equity goals. Page 165CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 6 134 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023  Assess County programs, policies, operations, and projects (excluding stationary sources) for their contribution to achieving the County’s GHG emissions reduction goals and consistency with the 2024 CAP.  Disclose GHG emissions to a registry such as the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP). Climate change is a priority for Contra Costa County residents, who support continued County leadership on this topic. Page 166CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 6. Realizing the 2024 CAP Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 135 IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES (IS) CONTRA COSTA COUNTY WILL ENSURE IT FOLLOWS THROUGH TO ACHIEVE THE GOALS AND ACTIONS IN THIS CLIMATE ACTION PLAN. Successfully reducing GHG emissions, addressing climate change vulnerabilities, and building community resilience require active, organized, and ongoing collaboration between County government, local businesses and community-based organizations, regional governments, and the public. Implementation strategies in this 2024 CAP are intended to ensure the continued provision of resources for the implementation, revision, and monitoring of the 2024 CAP as well as the continued cultivation of government and community partnerships. IS-1: Monitor and report progress toward achieving Climate Action Plan goals on an annual basis. Strategy IS-1 Actions:  Assign responsibility for facilitating and supporting 2024 CAP implementation to the County’s Department of Conservation and Development.  Identify key staff from each department responsible for supporting 2024 CAP implementation and updates for annual reporting and monitoring.  Continue to involve community-based organizations and other key stakeholders in reviewing and recommending 2024 CAP action items.  Continue to prepare an annual progress report on implementation of the recommended GHG emissions reduction strategies and progress toward the 2024 CAP goals. When information is available, provide updates on estimated GHG emissions reductions and current GHG emissions levels.  Monitor implementation of the Sustainability Fund for projects in County facilities.  Use the 2024 CAP implementation and monitoring tool to track GHG benefits from 2024 CAP implementation and identify progress toward the 2024 CAP reduction goals.  Pursue refinements to the County permitting system and other systems as needed to support collection of 2024 CAP implementation data. Page 167CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 6 136 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023  Work with Contra Costa Health on exploring and, if appropriate, developing health indicators related to climate change to help inform progress on current actions and effectiveness of adaptation strategies. IS-2: Continue collaborative partnerships with agencies and community groups that support Climate Action Plan implementation, with an emphasis on residents and community-based organizations from Impacted Communities. Strategy IS-2 Actions:  Participate in local and regional organizations that provide tools and support for energy efficiency, energy conservation, GHG emissions reductions, sustainable infrastructure development, adaptation, public information, and implementation of this 2024 CAP.  Enable effective partnerships to implement high-priority strategies from the 2024 CAP by working through established interagency collaborations and joint exercise of powers authorities and forming new arrangements of various types where necessary to be effective.  Provide input to partner agencies on policy barriers that need to be addressed at the State level. County Green Government Group Champions at a planting day with Friends of Alhambra Creek. Photo credit: Jody London. Page 168CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 6. Realizing the 2024 CAP Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 137 IS-3: Secure necessary funding to implement the Climate Action Plan. Strategy IS-3 Actions:  Identify funding sources and levels for reduction strategies as part of annual reporting.  Include GHG emissions reduction strategies in the capital improvement programs for County-owned and managed facilities and infrastructure, and other plans as appropriate.  Pursue local, regional, state, and federal grants to support implementation.  Explore dedicated funding sources for 2024 CAP implementation, including from the Sustainability Fund or other revenue sources as needed.  Explore opportunities to allocate a portion of revenues from revenue-generating strategies in the 2024 CAP to its implementation. CAP Updates Per HS-A3.1 in the County’s General Plan, future updates to the 2024 CAP must include: a) Inventories of GHG emissions in the unincorporated county. b) GHG reduction targets for 2030 and 2045 at a minimum. c) Forecasts of GHG emissions for the unincorporated county consistent with growth assumptions of the General Plan. d) GHG reduction measures and strategies with quantifiable outcomes. e) Climate adaptation and resilience strategies to ensure the county’s communities can respond to changing climate conditions. f) An implementation and monitoring program to track the County’s progress toward achievement of the GHG reduction targets. g) A community and stakeholder engagement program for CAP preparation and implementation. Page 169CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 6 138 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 IS-4: Continue to update the baseline emissions inventory and Climate Action Plan every five years. Strategy IS-4 Actions:  Prepare a GHG emissions inventory that shows GHG emissions after emergency conditions created by the COVID-19 pandemic are expected to have ended.  Update the 2024 CAP to incorporate new technologies, practices, and other options to further reduce emissions. (HS-A3.1) IS-5: Maintain and update the Climate Action Plan to allow for greater resilience. Strategy IS-5 Actions:  Coordinate, where possible, updates of the Climate Action Plan, General Plan Safety Element, and Local Hazard Mitigation Plan cycles to ensure plan alignment and coordination of climate mitigation and adaptation efforts.  Assess the implementation status and effectiveness of adaptation strategies. Work Plan Table 12 contains information to support staff and community implementation of the strategies and to effectively integrate them into budgets, the capital improvement program, and other programs and projects. These implementation details are: CAP Strategy and Implementation Actions: The strategy language and the specific actions needed for reductions and increased resilience. Potential Strategies of Effectiveness: Metrics that County staff and others could use to track the success of the strategy. Lead Department(s): The lead County department(s) tasked with implementing the strategy. Potential Partners: Example local organizations that the County will partner with to implement the given strategy. Additional community partners will be welcome. Although significant GHG emissions reduction policies and initiatives are already in place, the actions proposed in this plan, by necessity, far surpass the scale of existing efforts. Implementing the plan and ensuring that it results in real, additional GHG emissions Page 170CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 6.Realizing the 2024 CAP Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 139 reductions will require increased coordination across sectors and institutionalized climate protection efforts across communities. The number of actions recommended in this plan will take many years to implement, given limitations in both staff time and funding. Time Frame: The year by which a strategy should be effective by fiscal year’s end. The exact status of a strategy will vary based on its actions, and many strategies will be ongoing through and beyond 2030. An effective strategy will be one that is actively on track to achieve its GHG emissions reductions, support adaptation to climate change effects, or achieve long-term resilience. For a strategy to be effective, the necessary programs and efforts should be active, and any infrastructure or other capital improvements should be in place. The effective year is not the end year—many of the strategies are intended to remain in effect for the foreseeable future, so they do not have end dates. Time frames for effectively setting up the strategies are: •Near Term (by 2026) •Mid-term (by 2028) •Long Term (by 2030) Applicability: The people, development, land uses, activities, and other aspects of communities that the strategy applies to. Though near term priorities are identified, please note that priorities can and do shift based on funding availability, advances in technology, new and better ideas, etc. The 2024 CAP and this implementation section should be considered a living document. Page 171CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 6 140 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 TABLE 12. 2024 CAP IMPLEMENTATION MATRIX CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME Clean and Efficient Built Environment: Homes, workplaces, and businesses in unincorporated Contra Costa County run efficiently on clean energy. BE-1: Require and incentivize new buildings and additions built in unincorporated Contra Costa County to be low-carbon or carbon neutral. −Consider adopting new or modified reach codes that exceed the California Building Standards Code to require the use of lower- carbon intensive energy sources, to achieve higher feasible levels of energy conservation and efficiency, and to achieve lower feasible levels of GHG emissions. (COS-A14.4) −Maintain, update, publicize, and enforce the County Ordinance Code Title 7 – Building Regulations amendment requiring new residential buildings, hotels, offices, and retail to be all-electric. Evaluate the feasibility of including other building types as appropriate. (COS-A14.5) −Partner with community groups and MCE to establish an induction cooktop loaner program for county residents. −Design and construct new County facilities to be zero net energy to the extent feasible. (COS-P14.8) −Study the feasibility of establishing a low-carbon concrete requirement for all new construction and retrofit activities and consider additional strategies to reduce embedded carbon in construction materials. The intent is to determine what the County can and should do to support or exceed State requirements for net- zero emissions for cement use by 2045. (HS-A3.2) −Provide educational materials to encourage project applicants to incorporate passive solar design features into new developments and significant reconstructions. Key Performance Metric(s): −Implement the reach code. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): −Participation in energy efficiency and weatherization programs by new residential and commercial buildings (including County facilities), with attention to participation in Impacted Communities. (Conservation and Development – community; Public Works – County facilities) −Energy efficient lighting and other appliances and mechanical systems in new County buildings. (Public Works) −Completed report exploring requirements for low- carbon concrete in new construction. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners −BayREN −Local contractors, developers, architects, and Contra Costa County Building Trades Council −MCE −PG&E −Building Industry Association −BAAQMD Applicability −County operations −New development −Residents in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Near term (by 2026) Page 172CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 6.Realizing the 2024 CAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 141 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME −Promote additional sustainable building strategies and designs, including small and “tiny” homes, to project applicants as site appropriate. Consider requiring additional sustainable features as a condition of approval, including reuse of materials to minimize embedded carbon. BE-2: Retrofit existing buildings and facilities in the unincorporated county, and County infrastructure, to reduce energy use and convert to low-carbon or carbon-neutral fuels. −Create a County policy or program to facilitate making existing residential and nonresidential buildings more energy-efficient and powered by carbon-free energy. (COS-A14.6) −Require replacement and new water heaters and space heating and cooling systems to be electric if the building electric panel has sufficient capacity in accordance with BAAQMD Regulation 9, Rule 4, and Regulation 9, Rule 6. (COS-P14.10) −Create a detailed roadmap to convert existing homes and businesses to use low- or zero-carbon appliances. The roadmap should include steps to support converting buildings to rely on low- or zero-carbon energy using an equitable framework that minimizes the risk of displacement or significant disruptions to existing tenants. (COS-A14.7) −Evaluate options for incentivizing and requiring additions and alterations to be energy efficient and to achieve the lowest feasible levels of GHG emissions, including upgrades to the building electric panel, as needed. (COS-P14.8) −Ensure County-led and supported retrofit programs incentivize and prioritize conversion of buildings built before 1980 and emphasize assistance to owners of properties that are home to very low-, low-, and moderate- income residents and/or located in Impacted Communities, as permitted by available funding. (COS-A14.9) Key Performance Metric(s): −Participation in energy efficiency and weatherization programs, including retrofits and site rehabilitation, by existing residential and commercial buildings (including County facilities), with attention to participation in Impacted Communities. (Conservation and Development) −Roadmap to convert existing buildings to all-electric (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): −Energy efficient lighting and other appliances and mechanical systems. (Conservation and Development) −Expanded or created retrofit programs to complement weatherization programs that serve low-income county residents. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners −BayREN −Local contractors, architects, and Contra Costa County Buildings Trades Council −MCE −Neighborhood Preservation Program −Contra Costa County Asthma Initiative Applicability −County operations −Existing development −Residents in unincorporated areas. −Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Near term (by 2026) Page 173CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 6 142 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − Explore opportunities, in collaboration with partner agencies, to create new incentives or publicize existing ones to support updating existing buildings to achieve the lowest feasible levels of GHG emissions. − Work to continue to obtain funding with partners such as BayREN and MCE to implement a program or programs to provide reduced- cost or free energy-efficiency and zero-carbon retrofits to local small businesses and households earning less than the area median income, in support of the Contra Costa County Asthma Initiative, Contra Costa County Weatherization Program, similar County programs, other nonprofit partners, and other health equity efforts for Impacted Communities. Support the use of low- emitting materials, including paints and carpeting, in retrofits to improve indoor air quality. − In partnership with MCE and BayREN, continue to support voluntary home and business energy efficiency retrofits, including all-electric measures. − Facilitate participation by homes and businesses in demand response programs. − Continue to conduct energy and water tracking activities, audits, and upgrades of County facilities, including conversion of feasible County facilities to all-electric space and water heating. − Advocate for modifications to the federal Weatherization Assistance Program that expand eligible measures to include whole building clean energy improvements, such as wall insulation, duct sealing, electric panel upgrades, electric heat pumps, and related measures. Advocate for an increase in the income eligibility limits for the Weatherization Assistance Program. − Implement requirements for cool roofs and light-colored, nonreflective permeable paving materials as part of retrofit, repair, and replacement activities, using recycled materials or other Page 174CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 6. Realizing the 2024 CAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 143 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME materials with low embedded carbon as feasible and as established by the Building Standards Code. BE-3: Increase the amount of electricity used and generated from renewable sources in the county. − Require new commercial parking lots with 50 or more spaces to mitigate heat gain through installation of shade trees, solar arrays, or other emerging cooling technologies. Prioritize the use of solar arrays where feasible and appropriate. (HS-P8.3) − Encourage property owners to pursue financial incentives for solar installations and energy storage technologies, such as battery storage systems, on new and existing buildings. − Work with MCE to increase enrollment, especially in the Deep Green tier. − Continue to enroll all eligible, non-solar-equipped County facility electricity accounts in MCE territory in the Deep Green tier. − Work with the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District and other organizations that provide fire protection services to provide education and promote incentives for battery storage systems that can increase the resilience of homes and businesses to power outages. − Encourage installation of battery storage systems in new and existing buildings, especially buildings with solar energy systems and buildings that provide essential community services. (COS- P14.7) − Provide information about battery storage systems with all applications for new home construction and solar panel installations. − Pursue implementation of recommendations of the 2018 Renewable Resource Potential Study. Key Performance Metric(s): − Number and percent of County and community accounts enrolled in MCE Deep Green (Conservation and Development) − Total megawatts of installed renewable energy capacity, by type, in the unincorporated county. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Megawatts of rooftop and parking lot solar installed in unincorporated county, including County facilities and Impacted Communities. (Conservation and Development – community; Public Works – County facilities) − Megawatt-hours of installed battery storage capacity at public and private buildings. (Conservation and Development – community; Public Works – County facilities) − Percent of electricity supplied by PG&E and MCE from renewable sources. (Conservation and Development) − Number of new and existing buildings with energy storage systems, including County facilities. (Conservation and Development – community; Public Works – County facilities) Potential Partners − BayREN − Fire protection districts in Contra Costa County − Local contractors, architects, and Contra Costa County Building Trades Council − MCE − PG&E − BAAQMD Applicability − County operations − Existing development − New development − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Mid-term (by 2028) Page 175CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 6 144 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME −Evaluate the least-conflict feasible locations for stand-alone battery storage systems and modify land use regulations to enable such use in these locations. No Waste Contra Costa: Contra Costa County disposes no more solid waste than 2.2 pounds per person per day. NW-1: Increase composting of organic waste. − − Ensure, through franchise agreements and other relationships with waste haulers, a source-separated organics collection service for all residential and commercial customers in County-controlled collection franchise areas. Require that new and expanded landfill operations significantly reduce GHG emissions to meet or exceed State targets to the extent feasible, and work toward carbon-neutral landfills. (PFS- P7.12) −Work with wastewater providers to explore the use of organic waste as feedstock for anaerobic digesters to produce biogas that can generate electricity or fuel. −Require local restaurants, grocery stores, and other edible food generators that handle large quantities of food to partner with food rescue organizations to divert edible food that would be otherwise disposed in landfills for distribution to those in need, in accordance with SB 1383. −Collaborate with edible food recovery programs and the Community Wellness & Prevention Program to decrease food waste and address hunger. −Procure compost or other products made from recovered organic waste in accordance with the County’s Recovered Organic Waste Product and Recycled Paper Procurement Policy. Key Performance Metric(s): −Percentage of County-controlled franchise areas with source separated organics collection for residential customers. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): −Number of commercial edible food generators in County-controlled franchise areas participating in edible food recovery program. (Conservation and Development) −Number of projects complying with the Model Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance (MWELO) required to use compost. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners −Residents in unincorporated areas. −Businesses in unincorporated areas. Applicability −Environmental justice organizations −Food rescue organizations −Major generators of organic waste (schools, restaurants, event spaces, grocery stores, etc.) −Waste haulers −Wastewater service providers −Contra Costa Health, CWPP −County Jail meal service −Schools −Hospitals Time Frame Mid-term (by 2028) Page 176CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 6. Realizing the 2024 CAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 145 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME NW-2: Reduce waste from County operations. − Establish a source-separated organics collection service at all County-owned facilities that includes recovering food waste (scraps) and food-soiled paper. − Implement three-stream recycling (trash, recycling, and organic waste) at all County-owned facilities. − Establish requirements for source-separated organics collection and three-stream recycling as conditions in lease agreements for County offices. − Conduct waste audits of County facilities, including assessing the volume and composition of all waste streams, to identify challenges with waste activities and develop educational or operational changes to address issues and reduce waste generation. − Obtain material for capital projects from local and low-carbon sources to the greatest extent feasible, including allocating additional funds to allow for such materials, and integrate appropriate standards into the County’s Environmentally Preferable Purchasing (EPP) policy. − Continue to reduce paper use in County operations. Procure recycled paper and janitorial supplies in accordance with the Recovered Organic Waste Product and Recycled Paper Procurement Policy. − Continue engagement with TRUE zero-waste certification for County projects. − Enact Bay-friendly landscaping practices at County facilities. Develop County policies and practices for Bay-friendly landscaping. − Explore opportunities to reuse wood from County tree maintenance activities as an alternative to chipping. Key Performance Metric(s): − Recycling, composting at County facilities. (Public Works) − Volume of waste disposed at County facilities. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Recycled content of County purchases consistent with applicable requirements of SB 1383. (Public Works) − Enforcement of requirements for County vendors and contractors to adopt and implement the Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Policy. (Public Works) − Number of County facilities with Bay-friendly landscaping practices. (Public Works) − Tonnage of recycled and composted materials, by type, collected at County facilities. (Public Works) − Number of County facilities with three-stream recycling. (Public Works) Potential Partners − County operations Applicability − Waste haulers Time Frame Mid-term (by 2028) Page 177CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 6 146 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − Encourage medical facilities and medical waste recycling companies to upgrade facilities to increase the amount of medical waste recycled or reprocessed. − Explore the feasibility of transitioning to reusable products in the health sector, where appropriate, and procuring products certified as green or low carbon. NW-3: Increase community-wide recycling and waste minimization programs. − Create a source-reduction program in partnership with regional agencies to promote rethinking, refusing, reducing, reusing, and regenerating of materials. − Improve educational efforts to promote better waste sorting among community members. − Work with waste haulers to expand the types of materials accepted by recycling programs as economic conditions allow. − Work with waste haulers to continue availability of curbside pickup recycling services. − Evaluate the feasibility of banning single-use plastics or establishing additional restrictions beyond those created by SB 54. − Encourage the use of reusable items over disposable materials. − Promote the Contra Costa County Recycling Market Development Zone low-interest loan program to incentivize the development of businesses that use recycled materials. Key Performance Metric(s): − Actual disposed pounds per person per day (PPD) numbers year over year. (Conservation and Development) − Number of households and businesses subscribing to recycling and organics service. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − New development − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Applicability − Major waste generators − Waste haulers − Recycling centers Time Frame Mid-term (by 2028) NW-4: Reduce emissions from landfill gas. − Encourage efforts at Acme, Keller Canyon, and West Contra Costa landfills to install or enhance existing methane capture technology and associated monitoring systems with a goal of increasing the methane capture rate to the greatest extent feasible. Key Performance Metric(s): − Methane capture rate Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Tons of flared landfill gas Potential Partners − Landfill operators Applicability − Landfill operators Time Frame Mid-term (by 2028) Page 178CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 6. Realizing the 2024 CAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 147 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − Explore opportunities for partnering with agricultural and industrial operations to generate energy from methane gas generated by their ongoing activities. − Support landfill operators in efforts to transition away from landfill gas flaring. (COS-P14.5) Reduce Water Use and Increase Drought Resilience: Contra Costa County uses less water and communities are prepared for drought. DR-1: Reduce indoor and outdoor water use. − Require new development to reduce potable water consumption through use of water-efficient devices and technology, drought- tolerant landscaping strategies, and recycled water, where available. (COS-P7.1) − Require homes and businesses to install water-efficient fixtures at time of retrofit activities, in accordance with the California Building Standards Code. − Continue to enforce the Model Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance and encourage the use of native and drought-tolerant landscaping for exempt residential and commercial landscapes through partnership with local and regional water agencies and other organizations. − Partner with water and wastewater service providers, Groundwater Sustainability Agencies, irrigation districts, and private well owners to increase participation in water conservation programs countywide. (COS-P7.2) − Facilitate offering of BayREN water bill savings programs through eligible community water providers. − Encourage the installation of graywater and rainwater catchment systems, particularly for new construction, as feasible for wastewater infrastructure. Reduce regulatory barriers for these systems and explore creating incentives for installing these systems in new and existing buildings. Key Performance Metric(s): − Water use, specifically reduction in overall water use in the unincorporated county as reported by water companies. (Conservation and Development) − Water use, specifically reduction in water use at County facilities. (Public Works) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Square footage of native and drought-tolerant landscaping projects at County facilities. (Public Works) − Number of participants in Contra Costa Water District Lawn to Garden program. (Conservation and Development) − Number of participants in East Bay Municipal Utility District Lawn Conversion program. (Conservation and Development) − Number of water districts participating in BayREN water savings program. (Conservation and Development) − Number of customers participating in water conservation programs sponsored by water companies. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − Water providers − Green Business Program Applicability − Central Contra Costa Sanitary District − Contra Costa Water District − East Bay Municipal Utility District − West County Wastewater District − Other water and wastewater service providers − Contra Costa Health − UC Master Gardeners − Nurseries − Property managers Time Frame Near term (by 2026) Page 179CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 6 148 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − Identify opportunities for graywater use in public spaces and implement them as feasible. − Promote the installation of composting toilets at appropriate County facilities in locations without wastewater service. DR-2: Ensure sustainable and diverse water supplies. − Encourage Contra Costa Health to work with Groundwater Sustainability Agencies to ensure that new well permit applications are in accordance with County ordinances and State construction standards and require a hydrogeological evaluation in areas with known water shortages to ensure that the sustainable yield goals can be met. − Require new development to demonstrate the availability of a safe, sanitary, and environmentally sound water delivery and wastewater treatment systems with adequate capacity. (PFS-P4.5, PFS-P4.6) − Discourage new development that may reasonably lead to groundwater overdraft, subsidence, or other negative impacts, or which may reasonably depend on the import of unsustainable quantities of water from outside the county. − Require the use of permeable surfaces for new or reconstructed hardscaped areas. − In coordination with Groundwater Sustainability Agencies, expand opportunities for groundwater recharge. − Work with water suppliers to expand recycled water systems as feasible, including considering additional treatment to allow for additional recycled water uses. Key Performance Metric(s): − Amount of recycled water used. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Groundwater sustainability indicators: chronic lowering of groundwater levels; reduction in storage; seawater intrusion; degraded quality; land subsidence; surface water depletion. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − Existing development − New development − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Applicability − Contra Costa Health − Central Contra Costa Sanitary District − Contra Costa Water District − East Bay Municipal Utility District − Groundwater Sustainability Agencies (GSAs): − City of Antioch GSA − City of Brentwood GSA − Byron-Bethany Irrigation District GSA − Contra Costa County GSA − Diablo Water District GSA Page 180CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 6. Realizing the 2024 CAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 149 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − Discovery Bay GSA − East Contra Costa Irrigation District GSA − EBMUD GSA − Zone 7 GSA − West County Wastewater District − Other water and wastewater service providers Time Frame Mid-term (by 2028) Clean Transportation Network: Contra Costa County’s transportation network provides safe and accessible options for walking, biking, and transit. If residents and workers are driving, they are in zero-emission vehicles. TR-1: Improve the viability of walking, biking, zero- emission commuting, and using public transit for travel within, to, and from the county. − Track over time projects that add pedestrian and bicycle facilities to document the County’s implementation of the County Road Improvement and Preservation Program (CRIPP); Complete Streets checklist; Vision Zero Report and Action Plan; Active Transportation Plan; and equity-focused plans, programs, and policies. − Improve the safety and comfort of bicycle, pedestrian, and public transit facilities using best practices to encourage more people to use such facilities. − Work with CCTA to fill gaps in the countywide Low-Stress Bike Network, as outlined in the 2018 Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan. Prioritize providing access for Impacted Communities and constructing protected bicycle facilities. Key Performance Metric(s): − Percentage complete and under construction of unincorporated bicycle network. (Public Works) − Linear feet of pedestrian facilities constructed. (Public Works) − Number of bicycle and pedestrian network gaps closed. (Public Works) − Measure progress on the County Road Improvement and Preservation Program (CRIPP); Complete Streets; Vision Zero; Active Transportation; and equity-focused plans, programs, and policies. (Public Works) − Number of new units (residential and commercial) located in transit priority areas. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − 511 Contra Costa − BAAQMD − CCTA − Environmental justice groups − MTC/ABAG − Transit providers − Local communities − California State Association of Counties − Advocacy organizations − East Bay Leadership Council − Safe Routes to School programs Page 181CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 6 150 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − In collaboration with key partners, support efforts to establish or join a shared mobility program that provides access to conventional bicycle, e-bikes, and other micromobility modes. − Support efforts to expand the service area and frequency of regional transit agencies, including AC Transit, BART, Capitol Corridor, County Connection, Tri Delta Transit, the San Francisco Bay Ferry, and WestCAT. − Maximize development of jobs and affordable housing near high- quality transit service to support a jobs-housing balance. − Market the county’s Northern Waterfront to attract innovative companies with jobs for residents. − Maintain in place and enforce a Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Ordinance that reflects best practices, and, at a minimum, conforms to Contra Costa Transportation Authority’s adopted model TDM ordinance or resolution. (GM-P3.5) − Improve county-wide safety for bicyclists by advocating for the passage of Vulnerable Road User Laws. − Secure additional funding for the maintenance and expansion of bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure improvements. Support efforts to obtain additional funding to maintain and expand public transit operations and infrastructure improvements. − Support CCTA to develop and implement methods for tracking EV and e-bike charging and availability across jurisdictions. − Support CCTA and regional transit agencies in providing “last mile” transportation connections and options. − Encourage and support increased regional integration of transit systems to promote more equitable fare structures, fare integration, easier transfers, including coordinated transfers between different transit systems and reduced wait times, improved information sharing, and generally a more seamless and modern system. − Number of new units of affordable housing, particularly in areas with high-quality transit. (Conservation and Development) − Transit ridership in County service areas. (Conservation and Development) − Number of employers operating transportation demand programs. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): For County Operations: − Number of employees participating in the County remote work policy. (Human Resources) − Number and percentage of County employees using the pre-tax commute benefit. (Human Resources) − Administrative Bulletin supporting videoconference and conference calls, where appropriate. (County Administrator) − Updated CRIPP Project list. (Public Works) − Grant awards for transportation projects that support 2024 CAP goals (number and amount). (Public Works, Conservation and Development) Applicability − County operations − Existing development − New development − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Long term (by 2030) Page 182CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 6. Realizing the 2024 CAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 151 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME TR-2: Increase the use of zero-emissions vehicles. Transition to a zero-emission County fleet by 2035 and a community fleet that is at least 50 percent zero-emission by 2030. − Require new County vehicles to be zero emission to the extent a viable vehicle is available on the market, that charging or zero- emission fueling equipment is conveniently located where the vehicle will be stored, and as required by the Advanced Clean Fleet regulations, with the goal that all County vehicles will be zero- emission by 2035. − Install electric vehicle charging equipment and other infrastructure needed to support the transition to a zero-emission County fleet at County facilities. Consider the appropriate locations, number, and capacity of infrastructure to facilitate the transition of the County fleet to zero-emission vehicles. − Provide incentives for zero-emission vehicles in partnership with MCE, BAAQMD, and other agencies. − Work with property owners and other potential partners to pursue installation of zero-emission vehicle charging stations in and near multifamily dwelling units. − Update off-street parking ordinance to include a requirement for zero-emission vehicle charging infrastructure. Consider including incentives for developers to exceed minimum requirements (i.e., density bonus). − Increase installation of electric vehicle charging stations for all vehicle types, including bicycles and scooters, at public facilities, emphasizing increased installation in Impacted Communities. − In partnership with regional agencies, explore providing subsidies for households making less than the area median income to purchase or lease zero-emission vehicles and associated infrastructure. Key Performance Metric(s): − Number of zero-emission vehicles registered in unincorporated county. (Conservation and Development) − Percentage of County fleet that is zero-emission. (Public Works) − Implementation of an EV sharing program (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Number of zero-emission vehicles purchased annually for County fleet. (Public Works) − Number of EV chargers installed at County facilities, both for County fleet and public use. (Public Works) − Number of publicly accessible EV chargers installed throughout the unincorporated county. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − BAAQMD − Contra Costa Transportation Authority − Environmental justice groups − MCE − Multifamily and rental property owners − TNC and taxi providers − BART − Caltrans − East Bay Leadership Council Applicability − County operations − Existing development − New development − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Ongoing Page 183CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 6 152 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − Pursue fees and regulatory efforts to convert transportation network company (TNC), taxi, and similar car-hire services to zero- emission vehicles. − Explore opportunities for implementing electric vehicle sharing programs. − Work with BAAQMD and other regional agencies to convert off- road equipment to zero-emission clean fuels. − Work with contractors, fleet operations, logistics companies, and other operators of heavy-duty vehicles to accelerate the transition to zero-emission heavy-duty vehicles. − Work with Public Works to pursue the use of renewable natural gas (sourced from recovered organic waste) for transportation fuel, electricity, or heating applications in cases where battery-electric, hybrid-electric, and sustainably sourced hydrogen fuel-cell sources are not available. − Encourage efforts to maximize EV charging during solar peak hours. − Support implementation of the Contra Costa County Electric Vehicle Readiness Blueprint. Resilient Communities and Natural Infrastructure: Contra Costa County will increase resilience to climate hazards and foster community health. NI-1: Protect against and adapt to changes in sea levels and other shoreline flooding conditions. − Require new development to locate habitable areas of buildings above the highest water level expected accounting for sea level rise and other changes in flood conditions, or construct natural and nature-based features, or a levee, if necessary, adequately designed to protect the project for its expected life. (HS-P6.1) Key Performance Metric(s): − Establish a shoreline flooding working group. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Develop effective tracking metrics. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − Existing development − New development Applicability − San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission Page 184CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 6. Realizing the 2024 CAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 153 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − Support the use of natural infrastructure, including ecosystem restoration and green infrastructure, to protect against sea level rise and associated shoreline flooding. − Coordinate with State and regional agencies, neighboring jurisdictions, property owners, utilities, and others to prepare a sea level rise adaptation plan. − Seek funding and pursue implementation of wetland restoration and other adaptation efforts for sea level rise. − Convene a working group that includes local jurisdictions, local shoreline communities, community-based organizations, property owners, businesses, and other stakeholders to collaborate on shoreline flooding adaptation strategies. − Identify opportunities for employing natural areas as buffers against rising sea levels. − Delta Stewardship Council − Shoreline communities − Irrigation districts − Community-based organizations − Land Trusts Time Frame Long term (by 2030) NI-2: Protect against and adapt to increases in the frequency and intensity of wildfire events. − Prohibit new residential subdivisions in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones and discourage residential subdivisions in High Fire Hazard Severity Zones. (HS-P7.1) − Require any construction of buildings or infrastructure within a High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone in the Local or State Responsibility Areas, or in the Wildland-Urban Interface, to incorporate fire-safe design features that meet the applicable State Fire Safe Regulations and Hazard Reduction Around Buildings and Structures Regulations for road ingress and egress, fire equipment access, and adequate water supply. (HS-P7.2) − Require subdivisions in the High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the Local or State Responsibility Areas, or projects requiring a land use Key Performance Measure(s): − Amount of funds distributed for wildfire mitigation efforts. (Contra Costa Fire Protection District and other fire protection entities) − Miles of power lines undergrounded. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. − County operations − Existing development − New development − Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services Applicability − Community-based organizations − Contra Costa County Fire Protection District Page 185CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 6 154 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME permit in the High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the Local or State Responsibility Areas, to complete a site-specific fire protection plan. Collaborate with the appropriate fire protection district to review and revise the fire protection plans. (HS-P7.3) − Work with property owners in mapped High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones or in the Wildland-Urban Interface to establish and maintain fire breaks and defensible space, vegetation clearance, and firefighting infrastructure. (HS-P7.4) − Support undergrounding of utility lines, especially in the Wildland- Urban Interface and Fire Hazard Severity Zones. (HS-P7.8) − Review indoor air filtration standards and consider whether filtration requirements can and should be strengthened for projects permitted by the County. − Work with community organizations to help Impacted Communities have access to financing and other resources to reduce the fire risk on their property, prepare for wildfire events, and allow for a safe and speedy recovery. − Facility operators (school districts, libraries, community centers, etc.) − Kensington Fire Protection District − Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District − Moraga-Orinda Fire District − San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District − Medical service providers − 211 − Red Cross Time Frame Long term (by 2030) NI-3: Establish and maintain community resilience hubs. − Pursue funding to develop a resilience hub master plan that identifies existing community facilities that can serve as resilience hubs and support affected populations during hazard events. This process should start with an assessment of community needs. Such facilities should be distributed equitably throughout the county, with an emphasis on easy access for Impacted Communities. Where appropriate facilities do not exist, develop plans to create new resilience hubs. Key Performance Measure(s): − Adopted plan for community resilience hubs. (Conservation and Development) − Number of community resilience hubs. (Conservation and Development) − Number of permits issued for battery storage projects. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − Community-based organizations − Contra Costa County Fire Protection District − Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services − Employment and Human Services − Environmental justice organizations Page 186CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 6. Realizing the 2024 CAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 155 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − Pursue funding to implement the resilience hub master plan, including retrofitting selected facilities to function as resilience hubs. These retrofits should involve adding solar panels, battery backup systems, water resources, supplies to meet basic community and emergency medical needs, and other needs as identified by the resilience hub master plan. − Create a virtual resilience hub that connects County resources to communities through virtual community networks to provide detailed, up-to-date information about preparing for natural disasters, public safety notifications and alerts, space for virtual gathering and information-sharing, and other appropriate uses. Materials shall be accessible in multiple languages. − Coordinate resilience hub activities with planning efforts around public safety power shutoffs and wildfire smoke resiliency. − Facility operators (school districts, libraries, community centers, etc.) − Jurisdictional fire departments − Homeless service providers − Medical service providers − 211 − Contra Costa County Office of Education − Local school districts − Red Cross Applicability − County operations − Residents in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Mid-term (by 2028) NI-4: Sequester carbon on natural and working lands in Contra Costa County. − Pursue implementation of recommendations from carbon sequestration feasibility study, Healthy Lands, Healthy People. − Continue to support and work with key partners to maintain existing and establish new pilot programs for carbon sequestration on agricultural land. − Promote restorative agricultural and landscaping techniques that incorporate cover crops, mulching, compost application, field Key Performance Metric(s): − Completed feasibility study for carbon sequestration in Contra Costa County. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Number of completed pilot carbon farming project(s). − Progress report on implementation of County’s Green Infrastructure Plan for County facilities. (Public Works) Potential Partners − Agricultural groups − Community gardening groups − Community-based organizations − Contra Costa Resource Conservation District − East Bay Regional Park District Page 187CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 6 156 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME borders, alley cropping, conservation crop rotation, prescribed grazing, and reduced tillage to promote healthy soil and soil conservation. (COS-P2.11) − Support soil conservation and restoration programs. Encourage agricultural landowners to work with agencies such as the USDA’s NRCS and Contra Costa RCD to reduce erosion and soil loss. (COS- P2.10) − Coordinate with farming groups, ranchers, the Contra Costa Resource Conservation District, and the University of California Cooperative Extension to identify and promote varieties of feedstock, livestock, and crops that are resilient to rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns and that increase carbon sequestration. − Explore ways to increase carbon sequestration on County-owned facilities. − Partner with regional landowners and agencies to establish carbon sequestration programs and incentives. − Consider the development of carbon offset protocols and guidance for use by carbon sequestration program applicants and County permitting staff to promote appropriate sequestration on natural and developed lands. − Ensure that any local or regional carbon sequestration program that the County establishes, promotes, supports, or joins must provide benefits to unincorporated communities that face environmental justice issues. − Explore the potential for the public to support tree planting and maintenance of existing trees. − Establish a mechanism to support expanded tree planting and maintenance activities, particularly in areas with few trees. − Support protection, restoration, and enhancement of creeks, wetlands, marshes, sloughs, and tidelands, and emphasize the role − Quantity of SB 1383-compliant compost procured and utilized by the County directly or on the County’s behalf. (Public Works, Conservation and Development) − Save Mount Diablo, John Muir Land Trust, and other land conservation organizations. − Environmental justice organizations − Organizations that support regenerative landscaping and agriculture. − Regional landowners − UC Cooperative Extension − Contra Costa Health Applicability − County operations − East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy − Natural and working lands − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Long term (by 2030) Page 188CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 6. Realizing the 2024 CAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 157 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME of these features in climate change resilience, air and water quality, and wildlife habitat. (COS-P5.1) − Inventory wetlands, floodplains, marshlands, and adjacent lands that could potentially support climate adaptation (e.g., through flood management, filtration, or other beneficial ecosystem services) and mitigation (e.g., carbon sequestration). (COS-A5.1) − Encourage and support conservation of natural lands outside the urban limit line in the unincorporated county. − Explore the creation of a Climate Resilience District. − Require that any mitigation of air quality impacts occur on-site to the extent feasible to provide the greatest benefit to local residents. For mitigation that relies on offsets, require that the offsets be obtained from sources as near to the project site as possible. If the project site is within or adjacent to an Impacted Community, require offsets or mitigation within that community unless determined infeasible by the County (HS-P1.6). NI-5: Minimize heat island effects through the use of cool roofs and green infrastructure. − Require landscaping for new development to be drought-tolerant, filter and retain runoff, and support flood management and groundwater recharge. (COS-P7.7) − Promote installation of drought-tolerant green infrastructure, including street trees, in landscaped public areas. (COS-P7.8) − Increase tree planting in urbanized areas, and open spaces where ecologically appropriate, emphasizing areas with limited existing tree cover, using low-maintenance native tree species that are low fire risk and ensuring water supply resources are not compromised. (COS-P6.2) − Consider preparing and implementing a Tree Master Plan for the unincorporated county. Key Performance Metric(s): − Number of permits for cool roofs, both private and County facilities. (Conservation and Development) − Adoption of a Tree Master Plan. (Public Works) − Percent of heat-vulnerable communities with tree cover / number of new tree plantings. (Public Works) − Square feet of pervious pavers installed. (Public Works) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Number of ER visits, deaths, and associated clinical care related to extreme heat events. (Health) − Equity measure rankings on the Healthy Places Index. (Health) − Acres treated by green stormwater infrastructure. (Public Works) Potential Partners − Community-based organizations − Community gardening groups − Environmental justice organizations − Organizations that support regenerative landscaping and agriculture. − Water and wastewater service providers − Contra Costa Health and related partners 020 Page 189CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #020 Posted by Derene Allen on 12/17/2023 at 3:06pm [Comment ID: 17] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 Drought tolerant is a key concept. Some applications of "drought tolerant" are interpreted as putting in "artificial green - such as artificial turf". Most expert sources agree that artificial turf is not a sustainable alternative (increases surface heat, harmful to wildlife, etc.), so it would be important to minimize the use of artificial turf as possible "drought tolerant" solutions. Not sure how to codify that - but worth thinking about. Page 190CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 6 158 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − Provide shade trees or shade structures at parks, plazas, and other outdoor spaces. − Update County tree ordinance to consider whether factors for approval of tree removal and/or replanting requirements are adequately considering Impacted Communities (e.g., tree cover, replanting standard). − Support efforts to develop incentive programs for home and business owners, school districts, and other local and regional property owners to increase the adoption of cool roofs and green infrastructure on private property. − East Bay Regional Park District Applicability − County operations − Existing development − New development − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Midterm (by 2028) NI-6: Protect communities against additional hazards created or exacerbated by climate change. − Discourage new below-market-rate housing in High and Very High Wildfire Hazard Severity zones, the Wildland-Urban Interface, and Alquist-Priolo Fault Zones. If below-market-rate housing must be constructed within these zones, require it to be hardened or make use of nature-based solutions to remain habitable to the greatest extent possible. (HS-P3.4) − Treat susceptibility to hazards and threats to human health and life as primary considerations when reviewing all development proposals and changes to land uses. − Partner with community-based organizations to provide information to community members about how to prepare for projected climate change hazards. − Promote, and develop as necessary, available funding sources to create incentives for residents and businesses to prepare for natural disasters, particularly members of Impacted Communities. Key Performance Metric(s): − Health outcomes of residents in Impacted Communities relative to the prior performance review. (Health) − Number of substandard homes that pose a health risk to residents in Impacted Communities relative to the prior performance review. (Conservation and Development) − Amount of support provided to businesses in Impacted Communities through the County’s small business assistance programs relative to the prior performance review. (Conservation and Development) − The rate of poverty in Impacted Communities relative to the prior performance review. (Conservation and Development) − Development and use of climate change vulnerability and resilience screening criteria for County capital investment projects. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − Community-based organizations − Contra Costa County Fire Protection District − Facility operators (school districts, libraries, community centers, etc.) − Kensington Fire Protection District − Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District − Moraga-Orinda Fire District − San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District − Medical service providers − Contra Costa Health and related partners 021 022 023 Page 191CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #021 Posted by Derene Allen on 12/17/2023 at 2:21pm [Comment ID: 16] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 Conversations around managing a tree bank have acknowledged they require additional effort, however, perhaps an environmental nonprofit can be found to take on that responsibility, with the funds collected by the county for tree removal/replacement permitting. If a particular property is not able to replant and is requesting tree removal, replanting requirements can be placed in a tree bank and these trees can be planted in impacted communities or in public outdoor spaces. #022 Posted by Derene Allen on 12/13/2023 at 8:40pm [Comment ID: 13] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 Include in the updated Tree Ordinance careful metrics for all MAC/CSD/TAC areas of unincorporated Contra Costa County of number of trees removed and requested number of trees to replant through a robust permitting process powered by AI to minimize County resources. Monitor tree canopy coverage to mitigate increased heat, lower air quality, etc. in the entire county. To maintain accurate records, all tree species (native & non-native) of a certain size will need to be monitored/permitted. #023 Posted by Derene Allen on 12/17/2023 at 1:59pm [Comment ID: 15] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 In addition to ensuring that the updated tree ordinance is considering impacted communities, it is important to monitor and protect tree canopy in those areas that do have canopy to be able to ensure they are not harmed with too much tree canopy being removed. It takes 100 years to replace a 100 year old tree and with very few requirements for tree permits in CCC, no entity is aware of how much is being removed - until harmful consequences are felt. Then it is a replenishment and catch up game. It is much more effective to preserve/plan than to replace. Should canopy need to be removed, there should always be a replacement requirement. The community health stakes are too high to allow depletion of tree canopy at this stage. Page 192CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 6. Realizing the 2024 CAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 159 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − Consider projected impacts of climate change when siting, designing, and identifying the construction and maintenance costs of capital projects. − Actively promote and expand participation in local and regional community emergency preparedness and response programs. − Support and fund efforts to enhance ongoing community and cross-sector engagement in community-level resilience and cohesion. Support non-government organizations to actively engage in developing a network of community-level actions that enhance resiliency. Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Number of County-led or -supported outreach and engagement activities in support of emergency preparedness and hazard mitigation. − 211 − Red Cross − Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services Applicability − County operations − Existing development − New development − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Near term (by 2026) Climate Equity: Contra Costa County will address environmental factors leading to health disparities, promote safe and livable communities, and promote investments that improve neighborhood accessibility. CE-1: Provide access to affordable, clean, safe, and healthy housing and jobs. − In partnership with community-based organizations, reverse community deterioration and blight and improve personal and property safety in neighborhoods throughout Contra Costa County. − Ensure that new housing for households making less than the area median income and housing for other Impacted Communities are outside of hazard-prone areas, including for wildfires, landslides, floods, and sea level rise, or that they are hardened or make use of nature-based solutions to remain habitable to the greatest extent possible. (HS-P4.3) Key Performance Metric(s): − Funds spent by County departments on energy efficiency and other services that support the Climate Action Plan goals in Impacted Communities compared to non-Impacted Communities. (Conservation and Development, Public Works) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Measures of health and social impacts of climate change that can reveal significant disparities and inequities across groups. (Health) Potential Partners − Community-based organizations − Environmental justice groups − Local grocery stores and food banks − Housing developers and contractors − Community colleges, schools, labor unions, and local career skills training programs Page 193CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 6 160 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − In partnership with community-based organizations, secure funding to establish a program to provide low-cost or free air conditioning and filtration, improved insulation, low-emitting materials, energy solar and storage systems, energy efficiency, and indoor ventilation in homes, emphasizing buildings that are home to Impacted Community members. (SC-A6.2) − Track development of local micro-grid battery storage policies and systems in other jurisdictions and identify potential opportunities for Contra Costa County. − Encourage companies and entrepreneurs from local universities and national labs to create jobs in such industries as renewable energy, transportation technology, diverse forms of manufacturing, biotech/biomedical, and clean tech. − Partner with local schools, the community college district, community-based organizations, labor unions, Workforce Development Boards, and other appropriate groups to provide training for residents for family-sustaining jobs in sustainable industries. Prioritize training for people currently or recently working in polluting or extractive activities. (SC-P1.1) − Provide support for State and federal programs that support family-sustaining jobs in sustainable industries, efforts to support organized labor, and living wage labor standards. − Adopt an ordinance at least as stringent as the State’s maximum idling laws, and coordinate with CARB and law enforcement to achieve compliance. (HS-A1.5) − Workforce development programs − Workforce Development Boards Applicability − County operations − Existing development − New development − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Mid-term (by 2028) CE-2: Invest in solutions to support climate equity. − Evaluate and adjust County planning and expenditures for infrastructure and services as needed to ensure equitable investment in Impacted Communities, consistent with SB 1000. Key Performance Metric(s): − Modified County investment policy to use ESG and to continue to prohibit investment in all securities issued by fossil fuel companies. (County Administrator, Treasurer/Tax Collector) Potential Partners − Community-based organizations − Contra Costa Employees Retirement Association Page 194CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 6. Realizing the 2024 CAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 161 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − Work with County departments to incorporate addressing climate change, providing climate solutions, and enhancing community equity more fully into County operations and the broad range of services the County provides. − As part of the 2024 CAP and General Plan implementation, consider whether the strategy being implemented provides equitable benefits for Impacted Communities as a criterion for prioritization. − Continually engage communities most affected by climate change in developing and implementing climate solutions and ensure that such solutions provide benefits to Impacted Communities. − Advocate for the Contra Costa Employees Retirement Association to include use of Environmental, Social, and Governance criteria in its investment policies. − Require that the County’s Deferred Compensation Plan provider make available Environmental, Social, and Governance investment options for employees participating in the County’s 457 deferred compensation plan. − Amend the County investment policy to consider the use of Environmental, Social, and Governance criteria and to continue and improve efforts to divest from fossil fuels. − Work with schools, Contra Costa County Library, business groups, and community-based organizations to educate and inform community members about climate change and related sustainability topics. − Evaluate the issuance of Labeled Bonds, such as “Green”, “Sustainable”, or “Social” bonds, during the planning stage of a bond issuance by the County. It is the County’s preference to issue Labeled Bonds if the evaluation demonstrates a financial or policy benefit to the County. Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Advocacy for Contra Costa Employees Retirement Association to use ESG in its investment priorities and to offer environmentally and socially responsible investment choices for members. (Board of Supervisors) − Environmental justice groups − School and community college districts − Contra Costa County Library − Business groups − Youth groups Applicability − Impacted Communities − Residents in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Mid-term (by 2028) Page 195CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 6 162 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME CE-3: Increase access to parks and open space. − Establish a goal for all residents to live within a half-mile of a park or other green space. − Support land acquisition for new parks and open space areas and protect such lands through fee title acquisition or through deed restrictions like conservation easements. − Continue to construct and develop opportunities for new trails. − Support investment in existing park facilities, in partnership with regional agencies. − Increase the tree canopy on public property, especially in Impacted Communities and areas with a high heat index, by prioritizing funding for new street tree planting and maintenance. (HS-P2.2) Key Performance Metric(s): − Number of residents in unincorporated county, including those in Impacted Communities, within a half- mile of a park or other green space. (Conservation and Development) − Total acres of parks and green space by type. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − Agricultural groups − Contra Costa Resource Conservation District − East Bay Regional Park District − Environmental justice groups − Local land trusts and land conservation groups − Housing developers Applicability − New development − Residents in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Near term (by 2026) CE-4: Ensure residents have equitable, year-round access to affordable, local fresh food. − Support establishment of year-round Certified Farmers’ Markets in all communities, prioritizing Impacted Communities. − Work with community groups to establish and maintain urban gardens, particularly on vacant lots and park land in Impacted Communities. (SC-P4.1) − Encourage major supermarkets to locate in Impacted Communities. − Support co-operative grocery markets in Impacted Communities. Key Performance Metric(s): − Number of regular Certified Farmers’ Markets in all communities and in Impacted Communities. (Agriculture) − Number of permits issued for urban gardens in all communities (if permits are required by policy). (Agriculture) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Number of residents participating in In Lieu of Services (ILOS) food benefits. (Health) Potential Partners − Agricultural groups − Community gardening groups − Environmental justice groups − Farmers markets − Local grocery stores and food banks Applicability − Residents in unincorporated areas. Page 196CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 6. Realizing the 2024 CAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 163 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Long term (by 2030) CE-5: Ensure that large industrial facilities act as good neighbors. − Provide recommendations to responsible permit agencies regarding permits for fossil fuel-based industries and point sources. − Regularly track data on fossil fuel production and transportation in Contra Costa County. − Encourage the economic development of industries and supply chains that emphasize a reduction in GHG emissions. − Encourage economic development and job creation in industries that advance the County’s sustainability goals, using the County’s policy on enhanced infrastructure financing districts. − As economic conditions change, support efforts to phase out heavily polluting and extractive industries and replace them with businesses that contribute to a regenerative and circular economy. − Require new or expanded commercial and industrial projects exceeding 25,000 square feet of gross floor area to be near zero- emission operations, including the facilities themselves and the associated fleets, except for uses with fewer than five vehicles domiciled on-site. (HS-P1.8) Key Performance Metric(s): − Quantity and type of fossil fuels produced, refined, stored in, and distributed in the unincorporated county, to the extent data are available. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Information on specific fossil fuel facilities in Contra Costa County, including changes of ownership, mergers and acquisitions, investor presentations and reports, or any other public information that may indicate a facility's interest or intent to expand in the future, considering broader market trends in oil and gas refining and export in the Bay Area. (Conservation and Development) − Local air quality metrics. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − BAAQMD − CARB − Chambers of Commerce − East Bay Leadership Council − Community-based organizations − Environmental justice groups − Industry groups − Labor unions Applicability − Industrial operations − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Ongoing and near term (by 2026) Leadership Strategies: Contra Costa County is a model for how local government can take action on climate issues. Key Performance Metric(s): Potential Partners − All County departments Page 197CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 6 164 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME L-1: Establish Contra Costa County as a leader among local governments for addressing climate issues. − Continue to publicize and support the operations of the County's Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force and Green Government Group (G3) Champions. − Work with all County departments to encourage adoption of best practices from the County's Green Business Program and other practices that support the County’s climate goals. − Encourage development of new policies and initiatives that support the County’s climate goals. − Explore the creation of funding mechanisms, including a carbon impact fee, to support the County’s Sustainability Fund for nvestments in County facilities if additional financial resources are needed. − Support legislative efforts to establish a green bank able to equitably finance sustainability projects, including renewable energy, energy efficiency, and green infrastructure, for residential and commercial customers. (COS-A14.10) − Ensure that funding mechanisms to address climate change minimize or avoid disproportionate financial impacts to Impacted Communities and do not exacerbate economic inequities to the extent feasible. − Facilitate trainings for County staff on climate change (including the results of the Vulnerability Assessment and the 2024 CAP technical work) and how they can support climate action through their work with the County and at home. − Encourage County employees to explore innovative technologies and programs that address climate change. − Incorporate integrated pest management into new construction and retrofit programs on County properties. − Ongoing work products and semi-annual reports from Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force. (Conservation and Development) − Annual report on conditions placed on discretionary projects to ensure support of Climate Action Plan goals. (Conservation and Development) − Number of County departments that have adopted their own Climate Action Plan. (Conservation and Development) Supportive Performance Metric(s): − Number of County departments adopting best practices of the Green Business Program. (Conservation and Development) − Trainings and other information for County staff on climate change. (Conservation and Development) − Amount of pesticides applied to County properties. (Public Works, Health (IPM)) − Number of County facilities with an active integrated pest management plan. (Public Works, Health (IPM)) − Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force − Community-based organizations − Green Business Program − Contra Costa County Library Applicability − County operations − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Ongoing and midterm (by 2028) Page 198CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 6. Realizing the 2024 CAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 165 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − Ensure County departments follow the County’s Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Policy and policy requirements are included in the contracting process. − Regularly review and revise the County’s purchasing and contracting programs as necessary to ensure consistency with the County’s sustainability and GHG reduction goals. (HS-A3.2) L-2: Continue to recognize the climate crisis as an emergency for Contra Costa County and make addressing climate change a top County priority. − Continue to implement the 2020 Climate Emergency Resolution approved by the Board of Supervisors, including conducting periodic reviews and updates to the Resolution. − Consider climate vulnerabilities and associated equity effects as factors in the County’s planning and expenditures for infrastructure and services to increase resilience and reduce GHG emissions countywide. − Consider development standards for the disclosure of climate and equity effects and vulnerabilities in staff reports for all decisions by the Board of Supervisors when such disclosures are helpful and necessary. Explore modifying County processes and forms to include questions to ensure the proposed action is consistent with the 2024 CAP and equity goals. − Assess County programs, policies, operations, and projects (excluding stationary sources) for their contribution to achieving the County’s GHG emissions reduction goals and consistency with the 2024 CAP. − Disclose GHG emissions to a registry such as the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP). Key Performance Metric(s): − Actions taken to implement Climate Emergency Resolution. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − All County departments − Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force − Community-based organizations − Local environmental groups Applicability − County operations Time Frame Mid-term (by 2028) Page 199CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 6 166 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME Implementation Strategies: Contra Costa County will ensure it follows through to achieve the goals and actions in this Climate Action Plan. IS-1: Monitor and report progress toward achieving Climate Action Plan goals on an annual basis. − Assign responsibility for facilitating and supporting 2024 CAP implementation to the County's Department of Conservation and Development. − Identify key staff from each department responsible for supporting 2024 CAP implementation and updates for annual reporting and monitoring. − Continue to involve community-based organizations and other key stakeholders in reviewing and recommending 2024 CAP action items. − Continue to prepare an annual progress report on implementation of the recommended GHG emissions reduction strategies and progress toward the 2024 CAP goals. When information is available, provide updates on estimated GHG emissions reductions and current GHG emissions levels. − Monitor implementation of the Sustainability Fund for projects in County facilities − Use the 2024 CAP implementation and monitoring tool to track GHG benefits from 2024 CAP implementation and identify progress toward the 2024 CAP reduction goals. − Pursue refinements to improve the County permitting system and other systems as needed to support collection of 2024 CAP implementation data. − Work with Contra Costa Health on exploring, and if appropriate, developing health indicators related to climate change to help inform progress on current actions and effectiveness of adaptation strategies. Key Performance Metric(s): − Preparation of Annual Report and presentation to Sustainability Commission and Board of Supervisors. (Conservation and Development) − Dedicated funding in annual budget for implementation of the 2024 CAP. (County Administrator) − Regularly maintained 2024 CAP tracking tool. (Conservation and Development) − Updates to County permitting system to support tracking of 2024 CAP implementation. (Conservation and Development) − Sustainability Fund progress report. (Public Works) Potential Partners − All County departments − Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force − Sustainability Commission Applicability − County operations − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Ongoing and near term (by 2026) Page 200CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 6. Realizing the 2024 CAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 167 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME IS-2: Continue collaborative partnerships with agencies and community groups that support Climate Action Plan implementation, with an emphasis on residents and community-based organizations from Impacted Communities. − Participate in local and regional organizations that provide tools and support for energy efficiency, energy conservation, GHG emissions reductions, sustainable infrastructure development, adaptation, public information, and implementation of this 2024 CAP. − Enable effective partnerships to implement high-priority strategies from the 2024 CAP by working through established interagency collaborations and joint exercise of powers authorities and forming new arrangements of various types where necessary to be effective. − Provide input to partner agencies on policy barriers that need to be addressed at the State level. Key Performance Metric(s): − Partnerships maintained. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − All County departments − Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force − Sustainability Commission − Agency partners − Community-based organizations Applicability − County operations − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Time Frame Near term (by 2026) IS-3: Secure necessary funding to implement the Climate Action Plan. − Identify funding sources and levels for reduction strategies as part of annual reporting. − Include GHG emissions reduction strategies in the capital improvement programs for County-owned and managed facilities and infrastructure, and other plans as appropriate. − Pursue local, regional, state, and federal grants to support implementation. Key Performance Metric(s): − Climate action integration into all department work plans and capital improvement program. (County Administrator, Public Works) − Number of grants and amount of funding being pursued, awarded, and managed. (Conservation and Development) − Funding provided for the Sustainability Fund. (County Administrator) Potential Partners − All County departments − Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force − Agency partners Applicability − County operations − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Page 201CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 6 168 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME − Explore dedicated funding sources for 2024 CAP implementation, including from the Sustainability Fund or other revenue sources as needed. − Explore opportunities to allocate a portion of revenues from revenue-generating strategies in the 2024 CAP to its implementation. Time Frame Ongoing and near term (by 2026) IS-4: Continue to update the baseline emissions inventory and Climate Action Plan every five years. − Prepare a GHG emissions inventory that shows GHG emissions after emergency conditions created by the COVID-19 pandemic are expected to have ended. − Update the 2024 CAP to incorporate new technologies, practices, and other options to further reduce emissions. (HS-A3.1) Key Performance Metric(s): − Updated GHG inventories every five years. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − All County departments − Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force Applicability − County operations − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Timeframe Mid-term (by 2028) IS-5: Maintain and update the Climate Action Plan to allow for greater resilience. − Coordinate, where possible, updates of the Climate Action Plan, General Plan Safety Element, and Local Hazard Mitigation Plan cycles to ensure plan alignment and coordination of climate mitigation and adaptation efforts. − Assess the implementation status and effectiveness of adaptation strategies. Key Performance Metric(s): − Progress on implementing GHG emissions reduction strategies, climate adaptation strategies, and general sustainability strategies. (Conservation and Development) Potential Partners − All County departments − Interdepartmental Climate Action Task Force Applicability − County operations − Residents in unincorporated areas. − Businesses in unincorporated areas. Page 202CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 6. Realizing the 2024 CAP Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 169 CAP STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION PERFORMANCE METRICS AND LEAD DEPARTMENTS POTENTIAL PARTNERS, APPLICABILITY, AND TIME FRAME Time Frame Near term (by 2026) Page 203CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 6 170 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 This page intentionally left blank. Page 204CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION PLAN Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 171 7. GLOSSARY 7. Glossary Adaptation. Making changes in response to current or future conditions (such as the increased frequency and intensity of climate-related hazards), usually to reduce harm and to take advantage of new opportunities.10,11 Adaptive capacity. The “combination of the strengths, attributes, and resources available to an individual, community, society, or organization that can be used to prepare for and undertake actions to reduce adverse impacts, moderate harm, or exploit beneficial opportunities”.12 Assets. A valued feature of a community that may be harmed by climate change. Assets may include buildings, infrastructure, community services, ecosystems, and economic drivers.13 Bay-friendly landscaping. A holistic approach to landscaping that works with the natural conditions of the San Francisco Bay Watershed. Bay-friendly practices foster soil health and conserve water and other valuable resources while reducing waste and preventing pollution. Carbon neutral. Reducing GHG emissions released to the atmosphere to zero over a period of time, either by entirely eliminating all GHG emissions or by balancing out all remaining GHG emissions through carbon removal practices so that the "net" emissions are zero. Carbon sequestration. The process of storing carbon dioxide in locations other than the atmosphere, where it cannot contribute to climate change or ocean acidification. For the purposes of this plan, carbon sequestration refers to nature-based carbon removal through the storage of atmospheric carbon in vegetation, soils, woody products, and aquatic environments.14 Climate change. A change in the state of the climate that can be identified by changes in the mean and/or the variability of its properties, and that persists for an extended period, typically decades or longer. In the context of this plan, refers to changes brought on by human activities.15,16 Climate justice. The concept that no group of people should disproportionately bear the burden of climate impacts or the costs of mitigation and adaptation.17 Page 205CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 7 172 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Climate Resilience Districts. Special districts that can raise and allocate money to fund projects and operations that address climate change adaptation efforts, such as those to help protect against sea level rise, wildfire, and drought. They have the authority to establish special taxes, assessments, or other charges. Local governments may establish climate resilience districts under Assembly Bill 852, adopted in 2022. Complete streets. A transportation facility that is planned, designed, constructed, operated, and maintained to provide comfortable and convenient mobility, and improve accessibility and connectivity to essential community destinations for all users, regardless of whether they are travelling as pedestrians, bicyclists, public transportation riders, or drivers. Complete streets are especially attuned to the needs of people walking, using assistive mobility devices, rolling, biking, and riding transit.18 Electric vehicle. A zero-emission vehicle that uses electricity stored in a battery to power one or more electric motors and can be plugged in at home, work, fleet, or public charging stations.19 Embodied carbon (also known as embedded carbon). The total GHGs emitted in the production and use of a good or service. For example, the lifecycle GHG emissions of building materials would include emissions resulting from the extraction, manufacturing, transportation, installation, maintenance, and disposal of the materials. Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG). The implementation of a governance structure and reporting system that evaluates a company's performance related to environmental and social factors that go beyond the company’s duty to maximize profits. Environmental metrics may include how well a company performs related to conserving energy, water, and other natural resources, protecting ecosystems and biodiversity, reducing carbon emissions, mitigating climate change, and promoting resilience. Social metrics include factors such as whether a company is union friendly, provides fair pay and leave, prioritizes worker health and safety, and proactively seeks a diverse workforce. Governance refers to how the company manages both the environmental and social aspects of its policies, programs, and reporting.20 Equity. The state in which each individual or group is allocated the resources needed to reach an equal outcome.21,22 Exposure. The presence of people, infrastructure, natural systems, and economic, cultural, and social resources in areas that are subject to harm.23 Extreme event. When a weather or climate variable exceeds the upper or lower thresholds of its observed range.24,25 Page 206CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 7. Glossary Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 173 Extreme heat. Temperatures that are hotter than 98 percent of the historical high temperatures for the area, as measured between April and October of 1961 to 1990. Across Contra Costa County, the extreme heat threshold is 96.6°F, although it varies from 87.1°F in Kensington to 102.4°F in Byron. Fire hazard severity zone. An area of significant fire hazard based on fuels, terrain, weather, and other relevant hazards.26 First mile, last mile. Refers to the first or final mile of a trip, typically between the origin/final destination of the trip and the nearest public transit access point. Graywater. Untreated wastewater that has not been contaminated by toilet discharge; affected by infectious, contaminated, or unhealthy bodily wastes; and does not present a threat from contamination by unhealthful processing, manufacturing, or operating wastes.27 Green infrastructure. Infrastructure that filters and absorbs stormwater where it falls. The federal Water Infrastructure Improvement Act (2019) defines green infrastructure as "the range of measures that use plant or soil systems, permeable pavement or other permeable surfaces or substrates, stormwater harvest and reuse, or landscaping to store, infiltrate, or evapotranspirate stormwater and reduce flows to sewer systems or to surface waters".28 Greenhouse gas(es). Greenhouse gases (GHGs) are gases that allow sunlight to pass through but reflect heat radiated from the Earth’s surface, trapping heat in the lower atmosphere. Common GHGs include water vapor, carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O). They may be emitted by natural or human processes. Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions inventory. A quantified list of a community’s GHG emissions and sources.29 Hazard. An event or physical condition that has the potential to cause fatalities, injuries, property damage, infrastructure damage, agricultural losses, damage to the environment, interruption of business, or other types of harm or loss.30 Hazard mitigation. Sustained action taken to reduce or eliminate the long-term risk to human life and property through actions that reduce hazard, exposure, and vulnerability.31 Impact (Climate impact). The effects (especially the negative effects) of a hazard or other conditions associated with climate change.32 Page 207CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 7 174 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Impacted Communities. Low-income areas that are disproportionately affected by environmental pollution and other hazards that can lead to negative health effects, exposure, or environmental degradation. Senate Bill (SB) 1000 labels such communities “disadvantaged communities”, but county residents found that this term was neither supportive nor reflective of their community and opted for the term Impacted Communities instead. SB 1000 defines Impacted Communities per Health and Safety Code Section 39711, specifying CalEnviroScreen as the primary screening method for identifying Impacted Communities. In general, census tracts in the highest quartile of scores (75 to 100) are considered Impacted Communities under SB 1000. Just Transition. Refers to the transition away from the extractive, profit-driven economy and culture to one that is ecologically sustainable, just, and equitable for all members of society. A central theme of the Just Transition is moving away from fossil fuels to renewable energy and the need to create sustainable green jobs for workers, particularly those in the fossil fuel industry. Low-Stress Bike Network. Low-stress cycling refers to the idea that a network may be established to ensure that there are ways in which cyclists can easily access areas throughout a community without being an extremely confident rider.33 MCE. Community Choice Energy provider for unincorporated county and most of the cities in Contra Costa County. Natural carbon sequestration. Assembly Bill 1757 (2022) defines natural carbon sequestration as “actions that are undertaken on natural and working lands to remove and provide storage of atmospheric greenhouse gases in vegetation and soils. This shall include preservation, conservation, restoration, and sustainable management of these lands, which may include compost application, cover crops, hedgerows, planned grazing, urban forestry, riparian restoration, restoration of tidal flows to wetlands, and other forms of wetland restoration, among other relevant actions”.34 Natural infrastructure. An area or system that is either naturally occurring or naturalized and then intentionally managed to provide multiple benefits for the environment and human well-being. Natural and working lands. Lands not covered by buildings or structures, including forests, grasslands, shrublands, woodlands, rangelands, farmland, wetlands, coastal areas, and the green spaces in urban and built environments. These lands serve important ecological purposes, including providing food and fiber, clean air, water, flood protection, species habitats, and other resources and benefits.35 Page 208CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 7. Glossary Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 175 Open space. Land that is not intensively developed for residential, commercial, industrial, or institutional use. Qualified climate action plan. A climate action plan that meets State requirements such that future development projects requiring environmental review under State law can streamline greenhouse gas impact analyses by demonstrating consistency with the plan. Reach code. A local municipal code that exceeds the State building code. An energy reach code must be at least as stringent as the statewide code, cost-effective, approved by the California Energy Commission, and updated and re-approved with each State Energy Code update. Resilience. The capacity of any entity—an individual, a community, an organization, or a natural system—to prepare for disruptions, to recover from shocks and stresses, and to adapt and grow from a disruptive experience. Community resilience is the ability of communities to withstand, recover, and learn from past disasters to strengthen future response and recovery efforts.36,37,38 Risk. The potential for damage or loss created by the interaction of hazards with assets such as buildings, infrastructure, or natural and cultural resources.39 Sea level rise. The worldwide average rise in mean sea level, which may be due to a number of different causes, such as the thermal expansion of sea water and the addition of water to the oceans from the melting of glaciers, ice caps, and ice sheets.40 Sensitivity. The level to which a species, natural system, or community, government, etc. would be affected by changing climate conditions.41 Social vulnerability. The susceptibility of a given population to harm from exposure to a hazard, directly affecting its ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover from the hazard.42,43 State Responsibility Area. The area in the state where the State of California has primary financial responsibility for the prevention and suppression of wildland fires. Susceptibility. A person or population’s potential for vulnerability due to demographic, socioeconomic, and geolocation characteristics.44 Sustainability. Meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Page 209CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Chapter 7 176 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Transportation network company (TNC). Companies that provide prearranged transportation services for compensation using an online-enabled application or platform to connect drivers using their personal vehicles with passengers. Urban heat island. The phenomenon in which large urban areas experience higher temperatures, greater pollution, and more negative health impacts during hot months due to a combination of heat-absorptive surfaces, heat-generating activities, and the absence of vegetation.45 Vulnerable road user law. Laws that prioritize the safety of road users who are not motor vehicle drivers. Provisions may include instituting strong penalties for motor vehicle drivers who seriously injure people using roadways who are not protected within a motor vehicle. Vulnerability. Climate vulnerability describes the degree to which natural, built, and human systems are susceptible “to harm from exposure to stresses associated with environmental and social change and from the absence of capacity to adapt”.46 Vulnerability assessment. An analysis of how a changing climate may harm a community and which elements—people, buildings and structures, resources, and other assets—are most vulnerable to its effects based on an assessment of exposure, sensitivity, the potential impact(s), and the community’s adaptive capacity.47 Wildland-urban interface. An area where houses and wildland vegetation directly intermingle, creating a significant threat to human life or property from wildfires. Zero-emission vehicle. A vehicle that does not produce emissions when in operation, including battery-electric vehicles and hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles.48 Page 210CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 177 Notes and Sources 1 California Air Resources Board. 2022. 2022 Scoping Plan for Achieving Carbon Neutrality. https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/our-work/programs/ab-32-climate-change-scoping-plan 2 https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/68157/Declaration-of-Climate-Emergency 3 Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, “Summary for Policymakers”, in Climate Change 2021: The Physical Science Basis. Edited by V. Masson-Delmotte et al. Contribution of Working Group 1 to the Sixth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, in press, Cambridge University Press, 2021. 4 Bedsworth, Louise, Dan Cayan, Guido Franco, Leah Fisher, Sonya Ziaja, “Statewide Summary Report”, in California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment, prepared by California Governor’s Office of Planning and Research, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, California Energy Commission, California Public Utilities Commission, publication no. SUM-CCCA4-2018-013, 2018. 5 https://cchealth.org/health-data/pdf/2015-climate-change.pdf 6 Swan, Rachel, Fagan, Kevin. “Winter storms bring snow to the Bay Area – with more to come”. San Francisco Chronicle. 23 February 2023, https://www.sfchronicle.com/weather/article/bay-area-winter-storms- 17801980.php. 7 https://www.baaqmd.gov/plans-and-climate/california-environmental-quality-act-ceqa/updated-ceqa- guidelines 8 https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/8533/Active-Transportation 9 https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/8532/Vision-Zero 10 Louise Bedsworth, Dan Cayan, Guido Franco, Leah Fisher, and Sonya Ziaja, “Statewide Summary Report”, in California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment, publication no. SUMCCCA4-2018-013, 2018. 11 California Natural Resource Agency, Safeguarding California Plan: 2018 Update: California’s Climate Adaptation Strategy, 2018, http://resources.ca.gov/docs/climate/safeguarding/update2018/safeguarding- california-plan-2018-update.pdf. 12 Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, “Annex II: Glossary”, ed. K. J. Mach, S. Planton, and C. von Stechow, in Climate Change 2014: Synthesis Report, ed. Core Writing Team, R. K. Pachauri, and L. A. Meyer (Geneva, Switzerland: IPCC, 2014), p. 117–130, https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar5/syr/. 13 California Office of Emergency Services. 2020 California Adaptation Planning Guide. https://www.caloes.ca.gov/cal-oes-divisions/hazard-mitigation/hazard-mitigation-planning/california-climate- adaptation. 14 United States Geological Survey. N.d. What’s the difference between geologic and biologic carbon sequestration? https://www.usgs.gov/faqs/whats-difference-between-geologic-and-biologic-carbon- sequestration. 15 California Natural Resource Agency, Safeguarding California Plan: 2018 Update: California’s Climate Adaptation Strategy, 2018, p. 231, http://resources.ca.gov/docs/climate/safeguarding/update2018/safeguarding-california-plan-2018- update.pdf. 16 Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, “Annex II: Glossary”, ed. K. J. Mach, S. Planton, and C. von Stechow, in Climate Change 2014: Synthesis Report, ed. Core Writing Team, R. K. Pachauri, and L. A. Meyer (Geneva, Switzerland: IPCC, 2014), p. 117–130, https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar5/syr/. 17 H. Cooley, E. Moore, M. Heberger, and L. Allen (Pacific Institute), Social Vulnerability to Climate Change in California: A White Paper from the California Energy Commission’s California Climate Change Center, California Energy Commission, publication number CEC-500-2012-013, 2012, https://www.energy.ca.gov/2012publications/CEC-500-2012-013/CEC-500-2012-013.pdf. Page 211CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 178 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 18 California Department of Transportation. 2021. Director’s Policy. https://dot.ca.gov/-/media/dot- media/programs/sustainability/documents/dp-37-complete-streets-a11y.pdf. 19 California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development. 2021. California Zero-Emission Vehicles Market Development Strategy. https://static.business.ca.gov/wp- content/uploads/2021/02/ZEV_Strategy_Feb2021.pdf. 20 Henderson, Jessyca. 2022. Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance – The Basics. https://www.aiacontracts.org/articles/6500607-environmental-social-and-corporate-governance--the-basics. 21 California Natural Resource Agency, Safeguarding California Plan: 2018 Update: California’s Climate Adaptation Strategy, 2018, p. 231, http://resources.ca.gov/docs/climate/safeguarding/update2018/safeguarding-california-plan-2018- update.pdf. 22 PolicyLink, Equity Manifesto, 2015, 2018, https://www.policylink.org/about-us/equitymanifesto. 23 Louise Bedsworth, Dan Cayan, Guido Franco, Leah Fisher, Sonya Ziaja, “Statewide Summary Report”, in California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment, publication number: SUMCCCA4-2018-013, 2018. 24 California Natural Resource Agency, Safeguarding California Plan: 2018 Update: California’s Climate Adaptation Strategy, 2018, p. 231. 25 International Panel on Climate Change, “Glossary of Terms”, in Managing the Risks of Extreme Events and Disasters to Advance Climate Change Adaptation, special report of Working Groups I and II of the IPCC, ed. C. B. Field et al. (Cambridge, UK, and New York: Cambridge University Press, 2012), p. 555–564, https://www.ipcc.ch/site/assets/uploads/2018/03/SREX_Full_Report-1.pdf. 26 California Office of the State Fire Marshal. 2021. Fire Hazard Severity Zones. https://osfm.fire.ca.gov/divisions/community-wildfire-preparedness-and-mitigation/wildfire- preparedness/fire-hazard-severity-zones/. 27 California Plumbing Code. 2019. California Plumbing Code Chapter 16A, Section 1604A.0. 28 Water Infrastructure Improvement Act Public Law 115-436, 132 Stat. 5558, 5559, 5560, 5561 and 5562. 2019. https://www.congress.gov/115/plaws/publ436/PLAW-115publ436.pdf. 29 World Resources Institute, C40 Cities, ICLEI Local Governments for Sustainability. 2021. Global Protocol for Community-Scale Greenhouse Gas Inventories. https://ghgprotocol.org/sites/default/files/standards/GPC_Full_MASTER_RW_v7.pdf 30 California Office of Emergency Services, California State Hazard Mitigation Plan, 2018, https://www.caloes.ca.gov/cal-oes-divisions/hazard-mitigation/hazard-mitigationplanning/state-hazard- mitigation-plan. 31 California Office of Emergency Services, California State Hazard Mitigation Plan, 2018. 32 California Office of Emergency Services. 2020 California Adaptation Planning Guide. https://www.caloes.ca.gov/cal-oes-divisions/hazard-mitigation/hazard-mitigation-planning/california-climate- adaptation. 33 University of Delaware. ND. “Complete Communities Toolbox”. https://www.completecommunitiesde.org/planning/complete-streets/low-stress-bike/. 34 California Code, Health, and Safety Code, California Global Warming Solutions Act Of 2006 (Division 25.5.), Part 4. Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reductions, Section 38561.5, amended by Assembly Bill 1757 (2022). 35 California Air Resources Board. 2019. California 2030 Natural and Working Lands Climate Change Implementation Plan. https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2019-06/draft-nwl-ip-040419.pdf. 36 California Natural Resource Agency, Safeguarding California Plan: 2018 Update: California’s Climate Adaptation Strategy, 2018, p. 231. 37 Louise Bedsworth, Dan Cayan, Guido Franco, Leah Fisher, Sonya Ziaja, “Statewide Summary Report”, in California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment, publication number: SUMCCCA4-2018-013, 2018. Page 212CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 179 38 California Natural Resource Agency, Safeguarding California Plan: 2018 Update: California’s Climate Adaptation Strategy, 2018, p. 231. 39 California Office of Emergency Services, California State Hazard Mitigation Plan, 2018, https://www.caloes.ca.gov/cal-oes-divisions/hazard-mitigation/hazard-mitigationplanning/state-hazard- mitigation-plan. 40 California Natural Resources Agency and California Ocean Protection Council. 2018. State of California Sea- Level Rise Guidance, 2018 Update. https://opc.ca.gov/webmaster/ftp/pdf/agenda_items/20180314/Item3_Exhibit-A_OPC_SLR_Guidance-rd3.pdf. 41 California Natural Resource Agency, Safeguarding California Plan: 2018 Update: California’s Climate Adaptation Strategy, 2018, p. 231. 42 H. Cooley, E. Moore, M. Heberger, and L. Allen (Pacific Institute), Social Vulnerability to Climate Change in California: A White Paper from the California Energy Commission’s California Climate Change Center, California Energy Commission, 2012, publication number CEC-500-2012-013, https://www.energy.ca.gov/2012publications/CEC-500- 2012-013/CEC-500-2012-013.pdf. 43 Louise Bedsworth, Dan Cayan, Guido Franco, Leah Fisher, Sonya Ziaja, “Statewide Summary Report”, in California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment, publication number: SUMCCCA4-2018-013, 2018. 44 California Office of Emergency Services. 2020 California Adaptation Planning Guide. https://www.caloes.ca.gov/cal-oes-divisions/hazard-mitigation/hazard-mitigation-planning/california-climate- adaptation. 45 California Environmental Protection Agency. 2022. Urban Heat Island Index for California. https://calepa.ca.gov/climate/urban-heat-island-index-for-california. 46 World Bank, Climate & Disaster Risk Screening Tools: Key Terms, 2019, https://climatescreeningtools.worldbank.org/content/key-terms-0. 47 California Office of Emergency Services. 2020 California Adaptation Planning Guide. https://www.caloes.ca.gov/cal-oes-divisions/hazard-mitigation/hazard-mitigation-planning/california-climate- adaptation. 48 California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development. 2021. California Zero-Emission Vehicles Market Development Strategy. https://static.business.ca.gov/wp- content/uploads/2021/02/ZEV_Strategy_Feb2021.pdf. Page 213CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Page 214CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION PLAN APPENDIX A: KEY CLIMATE CHANGE POLICY AND LEGISLATION Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 A -1 Since 2005, the State of California has responded to growing concerns over the effects of climate change by adopting a comprehensive approach to addressing emissions in the public and private sectors through legislation starting with the first Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (Assembly Bill [AB] 32) and more recently with aggressive statewide targets on greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction (Senate Bill [SB] 32 and AB 1279), renewable energy portfolio standard (SB 100), and zero-emissions vehicles (SB 1275). The following table provides a summary of key climate change policy and legislation through mid-2023, beginning with the most recent actions. Policy or Legislation Date Description Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) Rules 9-4 and 9-6 2023 Nitrogen Oxides from Natural Gas-Fired Furnaces, Boilers, and Water Heaters BAAQMD adopted amendments to Regulation 9, Inorganic Gaseous Pollutants, Rule 4, Nitrogen Oxides from Natural Gas- Fired Furnaces (Rule 9-4), and Rule 6, Nitrogen Oxides Emissions from Natural Gas-Fired Boilers and Water Heaters (Rule 9-6). Space- and water-heating appliances generate a large portion of nitrogen oxide (NOX) emissions from sources in the Bay Area. NOX are a key criteria pollutant as a precursor to ozone and secondary particulate matter (PM) formation. The amendments would require more stringent NOX emission standards for space- and water-heating appliances within the BAAQMD’s jurisdiction starting in year 2023 and would substantially reduce NOX emissions from these appliances commonly found in single-family homes and commercial applications. The amendments to Rules 9-4 and 9-6 include the following elements: • Sales and installation of smaller water heaters and boilers (below 75,000 BTU/hour) must be zero emission, starting in 2027. • Sales and installation of furnaces (heat input rate less than 175,000 BTU/hour) must be zero emission starting in 2029. • Sales of larger water heaters and boilers (between 75,000 and 2 million BTU/hour) must be zero emission starting in 2031. Existing appliances can remain in operation but the rule would apply once they need replacement. 024 Page 215CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 #024 Posted by Carl Mills on 01/30/2024 at 5:46pm [Comment ID: 32] - Link Suggestion Agree: 0, Disagree: 0 As a citizen concerned with climate change, I support this proposed policy 100%. Page 216CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix A A -2 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Policy or Legislation Date Description Nitrogen Oxides from Natural Gas-Fired Furnaces BAAQMD adopted the amendment to Regulation 9, Inorganic Gaseous Pollutants, Rule 4, Nitrogen Oxides from Natural Gas- Fired Furnaces (Rule 9-4). Space- and water-heating appliances generate a large portion of nitrogen oxide (NOX) emissions from sources in the Bay Area. NOX are a key criteria pollutant as a precursor to ozone and secondary particulate matter (PM) formation. The amended rule introduces new NOX standards for new, natural gas-fired furnaces, requiring reduced NOx emissions for devices beginning in 2024 and zero NOx emissions for furnaces beginning in 2029. This more stringent NOX emission standards for space-heating appliances within the BAAQMD’s jurisdiction would substantially reduce NOX emissions from these appliances commonly found in single-family homes. Nitrogen Oxides from Natural Gas-Fired Boilers and Water Heaters BAAQMD adopted the amendment to Regulation 9, Inorganic Gaseous Pollutants, Rule 6, Nitrogen Oxides Emissions from Natural Gas-Fired Boilers and Water Heaters (Rule 9-6). As mentioned, space- and water-heating appliances generate a large portion of NOX emissions from sources in the Bay Area. This amendment would require a new zero-NOX standards with compliance dates ranging from 2027 to 2031 to new, natural gas- fired devices. More stringent NOX emission standards for water- heating appliances within the BAAQMD’s jurisdiction would substantially reduce NOX emissions from these appliances commonly found in single-family homes and commercial applications. Advanced Clean Fleets 2023 California Air Resources Board (CARB) adopted the Advanced Clean Fleet standards in August of 2023. This regulation requires California state and local government fleets, including city, county, special district, and State agency fleets, to ensure 50 percent of vehicle purchases are zero-emissions beginning in 2024 and 100 percent of vehicle purchases are zero-emissions by 2027. They must also initially submit a compliance report by April 1, 2024. Small government fleets of 10 or fewer vehicles and those in designated counties would start their ZEV purchases beginning in 2027. Alternatively, State and local government fleet owners may elect to use the ZEV Milestones Option. State and local government fleets may purchase either ZEVs or near-ZEVs, or a combination of ZEVs and near-ZEVs, until 2035. Starting in 2035, only ZEVs will meet the requirements. Page 217CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Key Climate Change Policy and Legislation Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 A -3 Policy or Legislation Date Description Title 24, Part 6, Building Energy- Efficiency Standards 2022, updated every three years The California Energy Resources Conservation and Development Commission (now the CEC) adopted energy conservation standards for new residential and nonresidential buildings in June 1977 and most recently revised in 2022. (Title 24, Part 6, of the California Code of Regulations [CCR]). Title 24 requires the design of building shells and building components to conserve energy. The standards are updated periodically to allow for consideration and possible incorporation of new energy efficiency technologies and methods. The 2022 Building Energy Efficiency Standards, which were adopted on August 11, 2022, went into effect January 1, 2023. Title 24, Part 11, Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen) 2022, updated every three years On July 17, 2008, the California Building Standards Commission adopted the nation’s first green building standards, the California Green Building Standards Code (24 CCR, Part 11, known as “CALGreen”) as part of the California Building Standards Code. CALGreen establishes planning and design standards for sustainable site development, energy efficiency (in excess of the California Energy Code requirements), water conservation, material conservation, and internal air contaminants. The mandatory provisions of CALGreen became effective January 1, 2011. Like the other parts of Title 24, CALGreen is updated every three years. The current version of CALGreen was adopted in 2022 and became effective on January 1, 2023. Title 20, Appliance Efficiency Regulations 2020, updated every three years The CEC adopted the 2016 Appliance Efficiency Regulations (Title 20 CCR Sections 1601–1608), which include standards for both federally regulated appliances and non–federally regulated appliances. Though these regulations are now often viewed as “business as usual,” they exceed the standards imposed by all other states, and they reduce GHG emissions by reducing energy demand. California introduced Title 20 requirements in two phases, with Tier I going into effect January 1, 2018, and Tier II in effect July 1, 2019. Advanced Clean Car II standards 2022 California Air Resources Board (CARB) adopted the Advanced Clean Car II standards in August of 2022. This regulation requires that all new light-duty vehicles (e.g., passenger cars, small trucks, and SUVs) sold in the state to be zero-emission by 2035, with interim targets for new light-duty vehicle sales beginning in 2026. There are some limited exceptions for plug-in hybrid vehicles. Senate Bill 852 2022 Authorizes cities, counties, special districts, or a combination of any of the above to form a climate resilience district for the purposes of raising and allocating funding for eligible projects and the operating expenses of eligible projects. Page 218CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix A A -4 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Policy or Legislation Date Description Assembly Bill 1757 2022 Requires the California Natural Resources Agency (CNRA), by January 1, 2024, in collaboration with CARB, the California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA), the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA), and an expert advisory committee, to set targets for natural carbon sequestration and nature-based climate solutions for 2030, 2038, and 2045, which must be integrated into the Scoping Plan and other State policies. CARB must ensure that double counting of emissions reductions is avoided and emissions reduction projects and actions that receive State funding will not be eligible to generate credits under any market-based compliance mechanism. CARB, by January 1, 2025, must develop standard methods for State agencies to track GHG emissions and reductions, carbon sequestration, and, where feasible, additional benefits from natural and working lands over time. CNRA, by January 1, 2025, in collaboration with CARB, CalEPA, and CDFA, must review and update the Climate Smart Strategy to achieve the targets and post data on its website on progress made toward targets, including on State expenditures made to implement the targets. Assembly Bill 1279 2022 The California Climate Crisis Act codifies the statewide carbon neutrality goal. It directs the State to achieve net zero GHG emissions as soon as possible, but no later than 2045, and to achieve and maintain net negative GHG emissions thereafter, and to ensure that by 2045, statewide anthropogenic GHG emissions are reduced to at least 85% below the 1990 levels. Senate Bill 596 2021 Requires CARB to establish a strategy to reduce GHG emissions in the concrete and cement sector by 40% from 2019 levels by 2030 and to achieve carbon neutrality as soon as possible, but no later than 2045. Senate Bill 27 2021 Creates the California Carbon Sequestration and Climate Resilience Project Registry in order to maintain a list of eligible but unfunded projects, which then may be funded by public or private entities in order to mitigate California’s GHG emissions and improve climate resilience. Also directs CARB to add carbon sequestration to the state’s climate projection efforts. Advanced Clean Trucks 2023 California Air Resources Board (CARB) adopted the Advanced Clean Trucks standards in August of 2022 accelerate a large-scale transition of zero-emission medium-and heavy-duty vehicles from Class 2b to Class 8. Page 219CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Key Climate Change Policy and Legislation Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 A -5 Policy or Legislation Date Description N-82-20 2020 The order directs state agencies to deploy a number of strategies to store carbon in the state’s natural and working lands and remove it from the atmosphere. The order also sets a first-in-the- nation goal to conserve 30 percent of the state’s land and coastal water by 2030 (30x30) to fight species loss and ecosystem destruction. Directs state agencies to pursue innovative actions, strategies and partnerships to maximize the full climate benefits of natural and working land, through healthy soils management, including planting cover crops, hedgerows and compost applications; wetlands restoration to protect coastal areas; active forest management to reduce catastrophic risk and restore forest health; and boosting green infrastructure in urban areas like trees and parks. N-79-20 2020 Signed September 23, 2020. Identifies three zero emissions goals: (1) 100 percent of in-state sales of new light-duty vehicles (i.e., passenger cars and trucks) will be zero-emission by 2035; (2) 100 percent of medium- and heavy-duty vehicles in the State be zero- emission by 2045 for all operations where feasible; and (3) the State will transition to 100 percent zero-emission off-road vehicles and equipment by 2035 where feasible. The order directs CARB to develop regulations and strategies to achieve these goals. CARB adopted regulations for light-duty vehicles in August 2022 through the Advanced Clean Cars II rulemaking process. Assembly Bill 2800 2020 Established Climate-Safe Infrastructure Working Group for the purpose of examining how to integrate scientific data concerning projected climate change impacts into state infrastructure engineering. Senate Bill 743 2020 Amends the standards for determining negative environmental impacts from new development under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) from level of service (traffic congestion levels) to vehicles miles traveled (VMT). Senate Bill 1035 2018 Requires local planning agencies to review and, if necessary, revise the safety element upon each revision of the housing element or local hazard mitigation plan, not less than every 8 years, to identify new information relating to flood and fire hazards and climate adaptation and resiliency strategies. Allows cities and counties to identify new information relating to flood and fire hazards and climate adaptation and resiliency strategies that was not available during the previous revision of the safety element. Senate Bill 100 2018 100 Percent Clean Energy Act of 2018. Requires the state to purchase 100 percent of total retail sales of electricity from eligible renewable energy resources and zero-carbon resources by 2045. Page 220CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix A A -6 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Policy or Legislation Date Description B-55-18 2018 Signed September 10, 2018, sets a goal “to achieve carbon neutrality as soon as possible, and no later than 2045, and achieve and maintain net negative emissions thereafter.” Directs CARB to work with relevant state agencies to ensure future Scoping Plans identify and recommend measures to achieve the carbon neutrality goal. The goal of carbon neutrality by 2045 is in addition to other statewide goals, meaning not only should emissions be reduced to 80 percent below 1990 levels by 2050, but that, by no later than 2045, the remaining emissions should be offset by equivalent net removals of CO2e from the atmosphere, including through sequestration in forests, soils, and other natural landscapes. Assembly Bill 617 2017 Companion to Cap-and-Trade Extension. Establishes a groundbreaking program to measure and reduce air pollution from mobile and stationary sources at the neighborhood level in the communities most impacted by air pollutants. Requires the Air Resources Board to work closely with local air districts and communities to establish neighborhood air quality monitoring networks and to develop and implement plans to reduce emissions. The focus on community-based air monitoring and emission reductions will provide a national model for enhanced community protection. Assembly Bill 398 2017 Cap-and-Trade Extension. Extends and improves the Cap and Trade Program, which will enable the state to meet its 2030 emission reduction goals in the most cost-effective manner. Furthermore, extending the Cap-and-Trade Program will provide billions of dollars in auction proceeds to invest in communities across California. Senate Bill 1 2017 Transportation funding legislation that increases the state’s gasoline tax by $0.12 per gallon, raising over $5 billion per year for transportation projects including improvements in efficiency and emission reduction. Senate Bill 1383 2016 Short-Lived Climate Pollutants Strategy. Establishes statewide reduction targets for short-lived climate pollutants, including black carbon and methane (CH4). Black carbon is the light-absorbing component of fine particulate matter produced during incomplete combustion of fuels. SB 1383 requires the state board, no later than January 1, 2018, to approve and begin implementing a comprehensive strategy to reduce emissions of short-lived climate pollutants to achieve a reduction in methane by 40 percent, hydrofluorocarbon gases by 40 percent, and anthropogenic black carbon by 50 percent below 2013 levels by 2030. The bill also establishes targets for reducing organic waste in landfills. On Page 221CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Key Climate Change Policy and Legislation Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 A -7 Policy or Legislation Date Description March 14, 2017, CARB adopted the Short-Lived Climate Pollutant Reduction Strategy, which identifies the state’s approach to reducing anthropogenic and biogenic sources of short-lived climate pollutants. Anthropogenic sources of black carbon include on- and off-road transportation, residential wood burning, fuel combustion (charbroiling), and industrial processes. Assembly Bill 197 2016 Greenhouse gas regulations. Prioritizes direct emission reductions from large stationary sources and mobile sources. Senate Bill 32 2016 GHG emission reduction target for 2030. Establishes a statewide GHG emission reduction target of 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030. B-30-15 2015 Executive Order B-30-15, signed April 29, 2015, sets a goal of reducing GHG emissions within the State to 40 percent of 1990 levels by year 2030. Executive Order B-30-15 also directs CARB to update the Scoping Plan to quantify the 2030 GHG reduction goal for the State and requires State agencies to implement measures to meet the interim 2030 goal as well as the long-term goal for 2050 in Executive Order S-03-05. Assembly Bill 1482 2015 Requires Natural Resources Agency, beginning July 1, 2017, and every 3 years thereafter, to update the state’s climate adaptation strategy. Requires state agencies to maximize specified objectives, including, among others, promoting the use of the climate adaptation strategy to inform planning decisions and ensure that state investments consider climate change impacts, as well as promote the use of natural systems and natural infrastructure, as defined, when developing physical infrastructure to address adaptation. Senate Bill 379 2015 Climate Adaptation and Resiliency Strategies. Requires cities and counties to include climate adaptation and resiliency strategies in the safety elements of their general plans. Cities and counties with an adopted local hazard mitigation plan prior to 2017, are to address climate change in the safety element of the general plan upon the next revisions or update of the local hazard mitigation plan. Cities and counties that do not have an adopted local hazard mitigation plan must update the safety element of the general plan to address climate adaptation and resiliency by January 1, 2022. The bill requires the climate adaptation update to include a set of goals, policies, and objectives based on a vulnerability assessment, as well as implementation measures, including the conservation and implementation of natural infrastructure that may be used in adaptation projects. Page 222CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix A A -8 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Policy or Legislation Date Description Senate Bill 350 2015 Clean Energy and Pollution Reduction Act of 2015. Establishes targets to increase retail sales of renewable electricity to 50 percent by 2030 and double the energy-efficiency savings in electricity and natural gas end uses by 2030. Assembly Bill 246 2015 Establishes the Integrated Climate Adaptation and Resiliency Program to be administered by the Office of Planning and Research to coordinate regional and local efforts with state climate adaptation strategies to adapt to the impacts of climate change, as specified. Also requires within one year of an update to the Safeguarding California Plan, the Office of Emergency Services, in coordination with the Natural Resources Agency, the Office of Planning and Research, and relevant public and private entities, to review and update, as necessary, the Adaptation Planning Guide, as specified. The bill establishes an advisory council to support the goals of the Office of Planning and Research and a clearinghouse for climate adaptation information. Senate Bill 605 2014 Short-lived climate pollutants. Requires CARB to complete a comprehensive strategy to reduce emissions of short-lived climate pollutants by January 1, 2016. Senate Bill 1826 2014 Organic Waste Diversion. Requires businesses to recycle their organic waste on and after April 1, 2016, depending on the amount of waste they generate per week. This law also requires that on and after January 1, 2016, local jurisdictions across the state implement an organic waste recycling program to divert organic waste generated by businesses and multifamily residential dwellings with five or more units. Organic waste means food waste, green waste, landscape and pruning waste, nonhazardous wood waste, and food-soiled paper waste that is mixed with food waste. Senate Bill 1275 2014 Charge Ahead California Initiative. Establishes a state goal of 1 million zero-emission and near-zero-emission vehicles in service by 2020. Amends the enhanced fleet modernization program to provide a mobility option. Establishes the Charge Ahead California Initiative requiring planning and reporting on vehicle incentive programs and increasing access to and benefits from zero- emission vehicles for disadvantaged, low-income, and moderate- income communities and consumers. Senate Bill 1204 2014 California Clean Truck, Bus, and Off-Road Vehicle and Equipment Technology Program. Creates the California Clean Truck, Bus, and Off-Road Vehicle and Equipment Technology Program funded by the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund for development, demonstration, precommercial pilot, and early commercial deployment of zero- and near-zero emission truck, bus, and off- Page 223CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Key Climate Change Policy and Legislation Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 A -9 Policy or Legislation Date Description road vehicle and equipment technologies, with priority given to projects benefiting disadvantaged communities. Assembly Bill 8 2013 Alternative fuel and vehicle technologies funding programs. Extends until January 1, 2024, extra fees on vehicle registrations, boat registrations, and tire sales in order to fund the AB 118, Carl Moyer, and AB 923 programs that support the production, distribution, and sale of alternative fuels and vehicle technologies and air emissions reduction efforts. The bill suspends until 2024 CARB’s regulation requiring gasoline refiners to provide hydrogen fueling stations and appropriates up to $220 million, of AB 118 money to create hydrogen fueling infrastructure in the state. Assembly Bill 1092 2013 Building standards for electric vehicle charging infrastructure. Requires the Building Standards Commission to adopt mandatory building standards for the installation of future electric vehicle charging infrastructure for parking spaces in multifamily dwellings and nonresidential development. Senate Bill 535 2012 Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund and Disadvantaged Communities. Requires the California Environmental Protection Agency to identify disadvantaged communities; requires that 25% of all funds allocated to the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund established by AB 32 go to projects that benefit disadvantaged communities, with at least 10% going to projects located within these communities. Requires the Department of Finance to include a description of how these requirements are fulfilled in an annual report. Assembly Bill 1532 2012 Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund in the Budget. Requires the Department of Finance to develop and submit to the Legislature an investment plan every three years for the use of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund; requires revenue collected pursuant to a market-based compliance mechanism to be appropriated in the Annual Budget Act; requires the department to report annually to the Legislature on the status of projects funded; and specifies that findings issued by the Governor related to “linkage” as part of a market-base compliance mechanism are not subject to judicial review. Senate Bill X1-2 2011 Directs the California Public Utility Commission’s (CPUC’s) Renewable Energy Resources Program to increase the amount of electricity generated from eligible renewable energy resources per year to an amount that equals at least 20% of the total electricity sold to retail customers in California per year by December 31, 2013, 25% by December 31, 2016 and 33% by December 31, 2020. In 2018, Senate Bill 100 was signed into law, which increases the RPS to 60% by 2030 and requires all the state’s electricity to come from carbon-free resources by 2045 (see above). The new RPS Page 224CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix A A -10 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Policy or Legislation Date Description goals applies to all electricity retailers in the state including publicly owned utilities (POUs), investor-owned utilities, electricity service providers, and community choice aggregators. This new RPS preempts the California Air Resources Board’s 33 percent Renewable Electricity Standard. Assembly Bill 1504 2011 Requires Department of Forestry and Fire Protection and Air Resources Board to assess the capacity of its forest and rangeland regulations to meet or exceed the state’s greenhouse goals, pursuant to AB 32. Assembly Bill 341 2011 AB 341 (Chapter 476, Statutes of 2011) increased the statewide goal for waste diversion to 75 percent by 2020 and requires recycling of waste from commercial and multifamily residential land uses. Section 5.408 of CALGreen also requires that at least 65 percent of the nonhazardous construction and demolition waste from nonresidential construction operations be recycled and/or salvaged for reuse. Senate Bill X7-7 2010 20x20 Water Conservation Plan. Mandates urban water conservation and authorized the Department of Water Resources (DWR) to prepare a plan implementing urban water conservation requirements (20x2020 Water Conservation Plan). In addition, it requires agricultural water providers to prepare agricultural water management plans, measure water deliveries to customers, and implement other efficiency measures. SBX7-7 requires urban water providers to adopt a water conservation target of 20 percent reduction in urban per capita water use by 2020 compared to 2005 baseline use. Assembly Bill 2514 2010 Law requiring electric utilities to install minimum levels of grid- scale energy storage infrastructure. Senate Bill 375 2008 Requires CARB to develop regional GHG emission reduction targets for passenger vehicles. CARB established targets for 2020 and 2035 for each region covered by one of the State's 18 metropolitan planning organizations (MPO). CARB is required to update the targets for the MPOs every eight years. Assembly Bill 118 2007 Creates the Alternative and Renewable Fuel and Vehicle Technology Program, to be administered by the Energy Commission, to provide funding to public projects to develop and deploy innovative technologies that transform California's fuel and vehicle types to help attain the state's climate change policies. Senate Bill 97 2007 Directs Governor's Office of Planning and Research to develop CEQA guidelines "for the mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions or the effects of greenhouse gas emissions." Page 225CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Key Climate Change Policy and Legislation Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 A -11 Policy or Legislation Date Description Assembly Bill 1881 2006 The Water Conservation in Landscaping Act of 2006 requires local agencies to adopt the updated DWR model ordinance or an equivalent. Requires the CEC to consult with the DWR to adopt, by regulation, performance standards and labeling requirements for landscape irrigation equipment, including irrigation controllers, moisture sensors, emission devices, and valves to reduce the wasteful, uneconomic, inefficient, or unnecessary consumption of energy or water. Assembly Bill 1803 2006 GHG inventory transferred to Air Resources Board from the Energy Commission. Senate Bill 1 2006 California's Million Solar Roofs plan is enhanced by the CPUC and CEC's adoption of the California Solar Initiative. SB 1 directs CPUC and CEC to expand this program to more customers and requires the state's municipal utilities to create their own solar rebate programs. This bill would require, beginning January 1, 2011, a seller of new homes to offer the option of a solar energy system to all customers negotiating to purchase a new home constructed on land meeting certain criteria and to disclose certain information. Senate Bill 107 2006 Directs CPUC’s Renewable Energy Resources Program to increase the amount of renewable electricity (RPS) generated per year, from 17% to an amount that equals at least 20% of the total electricity sold to retail customers in California per year by December 31, 2010. Assembly Bill 32 2006 California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006. Requires CARB to adopt a statewide GHG emissions limit equivalent to the statewide GHG emissions levels in 1990 to be achieved by 2020. CARB shall adopt regulations to require the reporting and verification of statewide GHG emissions and to monitor and enforce compliance with this program. AB 32 directs Climate Action Team established by the Governor to coordinate the efforts set forth under Executive Order S-3-05 to continue its role in coordinating overall climate policy. Executive Order S-03- 05 2005 Signed June 1, 2005, set the following GHG reduction targets for the state: 2000 levels by 2010, 1990 levels by 2020, and 80 percent below 1990 levels by 2050. Senate Bill 1078 2002 Establishes the California RPS Program, which requires electric utilities and other entities under the jurisdiction of the CPUC to meet 20% of their renewable power by December 31, 2017, for the purposes of increasing the diversity, reliability, public health and environmental benefits of the energy mix. Page 226CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix A A -12 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Policy or Legislation Date Description Senate Bill 812 2002 Adds forest management practices to the California Climate Action Registry members' reportable emissions actions and directed the Registry to adopt forestry procedures and protocols to monitor, estimate, calculate, report and certify carbon stores and carbon dioxide emissions that resulted from the conservation-based management of forests in California. Assembly Bill 1493 2002 State law requiring the first set of GHG emission standards for passenger vehicles. Requires the registry, in consultation with CARB, to adopt procedures and protocols for the reporting and certification of reductions in GHG emissions from mobile sources for use by the state board in granting the emission reduction credits. This bill requires the state board to develop and adopt, by January 1, 2005, regulations that achieve the maximum feasible reduction of GHGs emitted by passenger vehicles and light-duty trucks. Senate Bill 527 2001 Revises the functions and duties of the California Climate Action Registry and requires the Registry, in coordination with CEC to adopt third-party verification metrics, developing GHG emissions protocols and qualifying third-party organizations to provide technical assistance and certification of emissions baselines and inventories. SB 527 amended SB 1771 to emphasize third-party verification. Senate Bill 1771 2000 Establishes the creation of the non-profit organization, the California Climate Action Registry and specifies functions and responsibilities to develop a process to identify and qualify third- party organizations approved to provide technical assistance and advice in monitoring GHG emissions and setting GHG emissions baselines in coordination with CEC. Also, the bill directs the Registry to enable participating entities to voluntarily record their annual GHG emissions inventories. Also, SB 1771 directs CEC to update the state's GHG inventory from an existing 1998 report and continuing to update it every five years. Assembly Bill 939 1989 California’s Integrated Waste Management Act of 1989, AB 939 (Public Resources Code §§ 40050 et seq.) set a requirement for cities and counties throughout the state to divert 50 percent of all solid waste from landfills by January 1, 2000, through source reduction, recycling, and composting. In 2008, the requirements were modified to reflect a per capita requirement rather than tonnage. To help achieve this, the act requires that each city and county prepare and submit a source reduction and recycling element. AB 939 also established the goal for all California counties to provide at least 15 years of ongoing landfill capacity. Page 227CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Key Climate Change Policy and Legislation Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 A -13 Policy or Legislation Date Description Assembly Bill 4420 1988 The CEC was statutorily directed to prepare and maintain the inventory of GHG emissions and to study the effects of GHGs and the climate change impacts on the state's energy supply and demand, economy, environment, agriculture, and water supplies. The study also required recommendations for avoiding, reducing, and addressing related impacts - and required the CEC to coordinate the study and any research with federal, state, academic, and industry research projects. Sources: Statewide Energy Efficiency Climate Collaborative Climate Action Plan 2.0 Template; University of California Berkeley Center for Law, Energy, and the Environment, California Climate Policy Dashboard; PlaceWorks, 2021. Page 228CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix A A -14 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 This page intentionally left blank. Page 229CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION PLAN APPENDIX B: TECHNICAL GHG APPENDIX Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 B -1 This appendix provides details for Contra Costa County’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions inventory and forecast in Chapter 3 of the 2024 Climate Action Plan (CAP) and the GHG emission reduction pathway presented in Chapter 4 of the 2024 CAP. It summarizes the technical details and findings from these analyses as well as the data sources, assumptions, and performance metrics used to assess the potential for GHG savings from state and local existing and planned efforts and the reduction strategies associated with the CAP. Inventory and Forecast As part of the preparation of the 2015 CAP, Contra Costa County and its regional partners and technical consultants prepared community-wide and County operations GHG inventories for the calendar years 2005 and 2013. The 2015 CAP identified the year 2005 as the baseline year for emission reductions, as this was considered a year with good data availability at the time, consistent with State guidance, and without any unusual factors that might affect GHG emissions. As part of the 2024 CAP update process, the project teams prepared inventories of community-wide emissions for the years 2017 and 2019. County staff made some updates to the 2005 and 2013 community-wide inventories in the 2015 CAP to ensure a consistent method and approach across all inventory years. County staff have also prepared a County operations GHG emissions inventory for the year 2017. This document presents the full results of the Contra Costa County community-wide GHG inventory and the County operations inventory and is the most up-to-date summary of Contra Costa County’s GHG emissions. Page 230CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix B B -2 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 PROTOCOLS A series of guidance documents, called protocols, provide recommendations on how to adequately assess GHG emissions. The project team prepared the new GHG inventories and updates to past GHG inventories consistent with the guidance in widely adopted, standard protocol documents. These protocols provide guidance on what activities should be evaluated in the GHG inventories and how emissions from those activities should be assessed. Using standard methods also allows for an easy comparison of GHG emission levels across multiple years and communities. • The County operations GHG inventory relies on the Local Government Operations Protocol (LGOP), which was first developed in 2008 and was updated in 2010. The LGOP is a tool for accounting and reporting GHG emissions of local government (municipal) operations and is used throughout California and the United States. The LGOP includes guidance from several existing programs as well as the state’s mandatory GHG reporting regulations. • The community-wide GHG inventory uses the United States Community Protocol for Accounting and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions (U.S. Community Protocol), which was first developed in 2012 and updated most recently in 2019. The California Governor’s Office of Planning and Research encourages cities and counties in California to follow the U.S. Community Protocol for community-wide GHG emissions. • A third protocol, the Global Protocol for Community-Scale Greenhouse Gas Inventories (Global Protocol) was first developed in 2014 and is intended for use in preparing international community-scale GHG inventories. It is largely consistent with the U.S. Community Protocol, although it contains additional guidance and resources to support a wider range of activities that may be found in other countries. The project team has used the Global Protocol to assess GHG emissions from sources that are not covered in the U.S. Community Protocol. GHG inventories are estimates of GHG emissions based on these standard methods and verified datasets. While they are not direct measurements of GHG emissions, the use of the standard methods identified in the protocols, in combination with accurate data from appropriate sources, allows GHG inventories to provide reliable estimates of local emission levels. Due to potential data limitations, some inconsistencies in methods may remain. Any concerns about inconsistent methods are noted in the appropriate sector discussion. Page 231CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 B -3 UNITS OF MEASUREMENT GHG inventories and forecasts assess emissions in a unit called carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e), which is a combined unit of all GHGs analyzed in the inventory. As different GHGs have different effects on the processes that drive climate change, CO2e is a weighted unit that reflects the relative potency of the different GHGs. These inventories report amounts of GHGs in metric tons of CO2e (MTCO2e), equal to 1,000 kilograms or approximately 2,205 pounds. EMISSION FACTORS An emission factor describes how many MTCO2e are released per unit of an activity. For instance, an emission factor for electricity describes the MTCO2e produced per kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity used. Since different sources of electricity can have different emission factors, the emission factors in Table B-1 represent a weighted average of emission factors across electricity sources and portfolios (e.g. MCE’s Light Green and Deep Green products). The emission factor for on-road transportation describes the MTCO2e produced per mile of driving. The project team calculated most of the GHG emissions using data on GHG-generating activities in combination with emission factors. Some sources of GHG emissions (known as sectors), including agriculture and off-road emissions, are calculated using formulae or models and do not have specific emission factors. Table B-1 shows the emission factors for the inventory years for the unincorporated area. Page 232CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix B B -4 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 TABLE B-1: GHG INVENTORY EMISSION FACTORS, 2005–2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE SOURCE PG&E electricity (MTCO2e/kWh) 0.000226 0.000195 0.000096 0.000108 -52% PG&E Direct access electricity (MTCO2e/ kWh) 0.000388 0.000309 0.000208 0.000187 -52% California Energy Commission MCE electricity (MTCO2e/ kWh) N/A N/A 0.000059 0.000045 -24% * MCE Natural gas (MTCO2e/therm) 0.005311 0.005311 0.005311 0.005311 0% US Community Protocol Propane (MTCO2e/gallon) 0.005844 0.005844 0.005844 0.005844 0% US Community Protocol Kerosene (MTCO2e/gallon) 0.010569 0.010569 0.010569 0.010569 0% US Community Protocol Wood (MTCO2e/MMBTU) 0.095624 0.095624 0.095624 0.095624 0% US Community Protocol On-road vehicles (MTCO2e/VMT) 0.000486 0.000483 0.000421 0.000408 -16% California Air Resources Board BART (MTCO2e/ passenger mile) 0.000093 0.000093 0.000093 0.000013 -86% BART Municipal solid waste (MTCO2e/ton) 0.293179 0.293184 0.286047 0.261659 -11% CalRecycle Alternative daily cover (MTCO2e/ton) 0.191850 0.245890 0.245694 0.245693 28% CalRecycle * MCE’s percentage change is from 2017 to 2019. Page 233CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 B -5 COMMUNITY-WIDE EMISSIONS Sectors The community-wide GHG inventory assessed GHG emissions from the following 11 categories of activities, known as sectors. • Transportation includes GHG emissions created by driving on-road vehicles in the unincorporated county, including passenger and freight vehicles. • Residential energy includes GHG emissions attributed to the use of electricity, natural gas, and other home heating fuels in residential buildings. • Solid waste includes the GHG emissions released from trash collected in the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County, as well as collective annual emissions from waste already in place at the Acme, Keller Canyon, and West Contra Costa Landfills. • Nonresidential energy includes GHG emissions attributed to the use of electricity and natural gas in nonresidential buildings. • Agriculture includes GHG emissions from various agricultural activities in the unincorporated county, including agricultural equipment, crop cultivation and harvesting, and livestock operations. • Off-road equipment includes GHG emissions from equipment that does not provide on-road transportation (excluding agricultural equipment), such as tractors for construction or equipment used for landscape maintenance. • Water and wastewater accounts for the electricity used to transport and process water and wastewater used or generated by unincorporated county residents and businesses, as well as direct emissions resulting from wastewater treatment activities. • Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) includes GHG emissions associated with the operation of BART for unincorporated county residents. • Land use and sequestration includes GHG emissions absorbed and stored in trees and soils on locally controlled lands as part of healthy ecosystems and released into the atmosphere from development of previously undeveloped land. Page 234CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix B B -6 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 • Stationary sources are emissions from fuel use at major industrial facilities, permitted by state and regional air quality authorities. These emissions are informational and are not counted as part of the community total. • Wildfire includes emissions released as a result of wildfires. These emissions are informational and are not counted as part of the community total. Community-Wide Inventory Results Table B-2 show the community-wide GHG emissions for the unincorporated area associated for the four inventory years. Total community-wide emissions declined 22 percent from 2005 to 2019. The most significant decreases in emissions came from BART, water and wastewater, residential energy use, and transportation, which all saw their associated emissions decrease by more than 25 percent. Only off-road equipment saw a significant (58 percent) increase in associated GHG emissions. TABLE B-2: ABSOLUTE ANNUAL GHG EMISSIONS, 2005–2019 (MTCO2E) SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005 - 2019 Transportation 628,200 651,130 571,650 464,040 -26% Residential energy 294,930 280,870 212,420 191,780 -35% Nonresidential energy 118,740 125,350 98,850 159,520 34% Solid waste 243,940 224,570 223,100 220,760 -10% Agriculture 33,350 39,300 44,880 36,130 8% Off-road equipment 34,160 36,290 42,840 54,010 58% Water and wastewater 8,080 7,400 4,400 4,870 -40% BART 1,040 1,320 1,440 190 -82% Land use and sequestration -70,860 -70,860 -70,860 -70,860 0% Total Annual MTCO2e 1,291,580 1,295,370 1,128,720 1,060,440 -18% Informational Items Stationary sources 13,983,030 11,956,000 11,232,290 10,867,670 -22% Wildfire 14,270 66,080 0* 10,100 N/A All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. *No wildfires were recorded within the unincorporated County in 2017. Page 235CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 B -7 COMMUNITY-WIDE GHG INVENTORY RESULTS BY SECTOR Transportation On-road transportation activity accounts for vehicle miles driven between two points in the unincorporated area, or between the unincorporated area or another community. It does not include miles for trips that begin and end in other communities but pass through the unincorporated area (e.g., from Sacramento to Oakland). Unincorporated Contra Costa County community members drove approximately 1.3 billion vehicle miles in 2005, decreasing 12 percent to approximately 1.1 billion vehicle miles in 2019. The VMT in 2005 resulted in GHG emissions of approximately 628,200 MTCO2e, which dropped to approximately 464,040 in 2019, a 26-percent decrease. GHG emissions decreased due to this reduction in VMT, increasingly fuel-efficient vehicles, and a wider adoption of electric vehicles. The average vehicle on the road in unincorporated Contra Costa County generated 16 percent fewer GHG emissions per mile in 2019 than in 2005, as reported by Caltrans. Table B-3 provides a breakdown of the activity data and emissions for on-road transportation for the unincorporated area by each individual year included in the updated community inventory. TABLE B-3: TRANSPORTATION ACTIVITY DATA AND GHG EMISSIONS, 2005–2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005 - 2019 Activity Data (VMT) On-road transportation 1,291,819,230 1,349,279,980 1,357,121,160 1,136,911,090 -12% Emissions (MTCO2e) On-road transportation 628,200 651,130 571,650 464,040 -26% All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Residential Energy Contra Costa County’s GHG emissions from residential energy totaled approximately 191,780 MTCO2e in 2019, compared to 294,930 MTCO2e in 2005, a decline of 35 percent. Residential electricity GHG emissions decreased due to a decrease in overall use and usage of cleaner sources of electricity. Residential electricity use fell 40 percent from 2005 to 2019, from 488,236,740 kWh to 293,561,300 kWh. Over this period, as seen in Table B-1, a Page 236CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix B B -8 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 unit of electricity supplied by PG&E emitted 52 percent less GHG in 2019 than in 2005. Electricity from MCE, which supplied electricity to community residents in 2017 and 2019, generated even fewer GHG emissions per unit of electricity than PG&E-supplied electricity, which has also contributed to the decline in this sector. Natural gas use and GHG emissions saw a small decrease from 2005 to 2019 of 3 percent despite a growing population. Propane and wood use and GHG emissions also declined over this period, although GHG emissions from these fuels are only a small proportion of those from the residential energy sector. Table B-4 provides a breakdown of the activity data and GHG emissions for residential energy for the unincorporated area. TABLE B-4: RESIDENTIAL ENERGY ACTIVITY DATA AND GHG EMISSIONS BY SUBSECTOR, 2005–2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005 - 2019 Activity Data Residential PG&E electricity (kWh) 488,236,740 478,219,710 461,970,670 46,158,330 -91% Residential MCE electricity (kWh) - - 307,820 247,402,970 80,273%* Residential natural gas (therms) 30,919,160 31,007,110 28,634,420 30,100,640 -3% Residential propane (gallons) 1,525,330 1,106,900 1,043,270 1,021,340 -33% Residential kerosene (gallons) 13,160 10,960 8,030 16,320 24% Residential wood (MMBTU) 117,000 165,830 100,960 101,710 -13% Emissions (MTCO2e) Residential PG&E electricity 110,120 93,380 44,510 5,000 -95% Residential MCE electricity 0 0 20 11,060 55,200%* Residential natural gas 164,570 165,040 152,060 159,850 -3% Residential propane 8,910 6,470 6,100 5,970 -33% Residential kerosene 140 120 80 170 21% Residential wood 11,190 15,860 9,650 9,730 -13% Total Annual MTCO2e 294,930 280,870 212,420 191,780 -35% * MCE did not operate in the unincorporated County until 2017, and 2017 operations were very limited. MCE percentage changes are for changes from 2017 to 2019. All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. Page 237CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 B -9 Solid Waste Contra Costa County’s community-wide GHG emissions associated with solid waste includes four subsectors. • Municipal solid waste (MSW) is the material that is discarded by community members and reflects the actual waste generated by the community. • Alternative daily cover (ADC) is organic material applied at landfills by the landfill operator as a means of controlling debris and pests. • Waste in place is the solid waste and associated GHG emissions deposited in the County’s landfills in previous years. • The flaring subsector accounts for GHG emissions from the combustion of gases generated by the decomposing waste. Between 2005 and 2019, total solid waste GHG emissions decreased by 10 percent due to decreases in solid waste generated and ADC applied, likely as a result of increased community awareness about recycling and composting and the availability of curbside recycling programs. Although annual waste generation decreased, waste in place at the landfills increased as waste is added to the landfills each year. Table B-5 presents solid waste emissions data for each year for the unincorporated area. TABLE B-5: SOLID WASTE ACTIVITY DATA AND GHG EMISSIONS BY SUBSECTOR, 2005–2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005 – 2019 Activity Data (Tons) Solid waste 154,820 78,790 79,520 79,340 -49% ADC 15,950 13,990 11,470 7,580 -52% Waste in place 34,455,010 41,785,650 45,776,140 47,618,290 38% Landfill flaring 5,270 5,260 5,250 5,270 Less than 1% Emissions (MTCO2e) Solid waste 45,390 23,100 22,750 20,760 -54% ADC 3,060 3,440 2,820 1,860 -39% Waste in place 193,950 196,500 196,000 196,610 1% Landfill flaring 1,540 1,530 13,550 13,590 -1% Total Annual MTCO2e 243,940 224,570 235,120 232,820 -10% All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. Page 238CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix B B -10 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Nonresidential Energy Contra Costa County’s GHG emissions from nonresidential energy totaled approximately 159,520 MTCO2e in 2019, compared to 118,740 MTCO2e in 2005, an increase of 34 percent. Electricity emissions from retail electricity suppliers (PG&E and MCE) have fallen significantly, driven by a small decrease in electricity use and a large increase in the amount of electricity for renewable and carbon-free sources (see Table B-1). Between 2005 and 2019, nonresidential electricity obtained from PG&E decreased by 90 percent and nonresidential electricity obtained from MCE increased from virtually nothing in 2017 to approximately 200 million kWh in 2019. Natural gas use and associated emissions have reportedly increased, although this may be less of an actual increase and more so the result of data being omitted by PG&E as a way of complying with state privacy regulations. As a consequence of this, the project team has kept nonresidential natural gas use constant at 2013 levels, a conservative estimate that may not account for actual decreases in this subsector. Similarly, direct access electricity (electricity purchased from third parties instead of PG&E or MCE, usually by large customers such as major industrial facilities) was only reported for 2019, although this electricity use likely occurred in previous years but was not reported due to privacy regulations. Table B-6 provides a breakdown of the activity data and GHG emissions for nonresidential energy for the unincorporated area. Page 239CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 B -11 TABLE B-6: NONRESIDENTIAL ENERGY ACTIVITY DATA AND GHG EMISSIONS BY SUBSECTOR, 2005–2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005–2019 Activity Data Nonresidential PG&E Electricity (kWh) 1 284,558,070 266,216,660 266,216,660 29,062,250 -90% Nonresidential MCE electricity (kWh) 2 0 0 28,730 200,181,720 696,669% Nonresidential Direct Access electricity (kWh) 3 0 0 0 396,805,940 N/A Nonresidential natural gas (therms) 4 10,251,360 13,784,410 13,784,410 13,784,410 -58% Emissions (MTCO2e) Nonresidential PG&E electricity 1 64,180 51,980 25,650 3,150 -95% Nonresidential MCE electricity 2 0 0 Less than 10 9,040 451,900% Nonresidential Direct Access electricity 3 0 0 0 74,130 N/A Nonresidential natural gas 4 54,560 73,370 73,200 73,200 34% Total Annual MTCO2e 118,740 125,350 98,850 159,520 34% 1: Due to omissions in data reported by PG&E for the calendar year 2017, the project team assumed that electricity use remained constant from 2013 levels. 2: MCE did not operate in the unincorporated County until 2017, and 2017 operations were very limited. MCE percentage changes are for changes from 2017 to 2019. 3: Direct access electricity was only reported for 2019. As PG&E also reports MCE-supplied electricity as Direct Access, the numbers given in this table are the electricity use after MCE data are removed. 4: Due to omissions in data reported by PG&E for the calendar years 2017 and 2019, the project team assumed that natural gas use remained constant from 2013 levels. All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. Agricultural Emissions GHG emissions associated with the agriculture sector for the unincorporated area increased by approximately 8 percent between 2005 and 2019, as shown in Table B-7. This increase is due primarily to a minor increase (5 percent) in the amount of cattle in the county. Although crop acreages declined from 2005 to 2019, more fertilizer was applied in 2019 than in 2005 due to a shift in the types of crops being grown that required slightly more fertilizer. Page 240CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix B B -12 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 TABLE B-7: AGRICULTURE ACTIVITY DATA AND GHG EMISSIONS BY SUBSECTOR, 2005– 2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005–2019 Activity Data Crops (acreage) 200,980 204,031 197,360 183,730 -9% Nitrogen applied (pounds) 3,261,620 3,560,480 3,698,500 3,608,340 11% Livestock (effective annual population) 16,500 19,110 22,060 17,340 5% Emissions (MTCO2e) Crops 3,920 4,280 4,450 4,340 11% Enteric fermentation 28,510 33,920 39,160 30,790 8% Manure management 920 1,100 1,270 1,000 9% Total Annual MTCO2e 33,350 39,300 44,880 36,130 8% All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. Off-Road Equipment Emissions According to data shown in Table B-8, emissions from off-road equipment in unincorporated Contra Costa County increased approximately 73 percent between 2005 and 2019, although the sector overall remains a small proportion of the total community- wide emissions. This increase is primarily the result of a significant rise in diesel tractor and other agricultural equipment use over this period, along with increases in commercial and industrial/warehouse equipment use. Since this is modeling directly reported by State agencies, it is possible that changes in modeling methods may be affecting the results. Note that the State provides these GHG emission levels directly, so there is no activity data to display. Page 241CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 B -13 TABLE B-8: OFF-ROAD EQUIPMENT GHG EMISSIONS BY SUBSECTOR, 2005–2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005 – 2019 Agricultural equipment 1,200 1,190 1,180 10,170 748% Cargo handling equipment 900 380 330 310 -66% Commercial harbor equipment * 0 0 0 2,600 N/A Construction and mining equipment 6,780 7,170 8,880 7,200 6% Industrial equipment 8,320 8,840 9,470 9,780 18% Lawn and garden equipment 3,580 3,280 3,760 3,880 8% Light commercial equipment 2,230 2,780 3,060 3,270 47% Locomotives 3,170 3,260 3,540 3,620 14% Oil drilling equipment 20 20 20 20 0% Pleasure craft 1,890 1,810 1,800 1,830 -3% Portable equipment 4,830 6,240 6,700 6,970 44% Recreational equipment 650 670 610 630 -3% Transport Refrigeration Units 590 650 3,490 3,730 532% Total Annual MTCO2e 34,160 36,290 42,840 54,010 58% * State modeling only provided emissions for commercial harbor equipment for 2019. All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. According to records maintained by the California Department of Conservation’s Geologic Energy Management Division, there are no active oil or gas extraction wells in the unincorporated area. There are 16 natural gas storage wells in the hills between Clyde and Bay Point, along with an observation well. As these sites are not being used for active extraction, there are no further emissions associated with fossil fuel production at well sites in this inventory. Water and Wastewater Emissions Emissions associated with the water and wastewater sector are counted as indirect or direct emissions. Indirect water emissions refer to emissions created by the electricity required to treat and move water to where it is used. Indirect wastewater emissions refer to electricity needed to move wastewater to water treatment facilities, and to process and discharge it. Direct wastewater emissions refer to emissions produced directly by decomposing materials in wastewater. Page 242CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix B B -14 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 GHG emissions from Contra Costa County’s water and wastewater activity decreased 40 percent between 2005 and 2019. Indirect water GHG emissions declined by 62 percent between 2005 and 2019 while indirect wastewater GHG emissions decreased by 66 percent. Community members used substantially less water (31 percent less) and generated less wastewater (30 percent less) in 2019 than in 2005 despite population growth. This is likely a result of increased water efficiency by community residents and businesses. Additionally, the electricity used in water and wastewater pumping and treatment has been increasingly supplied by renewable and carbon-free sources, decreasing GHG emissions. Direct wastewater emissions did rise by approximately 199 percent from 2005 to 2019, but given that the amount of wastewater generated declined by this period, this is likely due to changes in modeling approaches and available data. The emissions data for the unincorporated area in Table B-9 shows that overall emissions increased slightly within the water and wastewater sector. TABLE B-9: WATER AND WASTEWATER ACTIVITY DATA AND GHG EMISSIONS BY SUBSECTOR, 2005–2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005 – 2019 Activity Data Water use (million gallons) 11,530 11,650 7,380 8,010 -31% Water electricity use (kWh) 26,443,770 28,004,290 19,137,620 20,783,930 -21% Wastewater generation (million gallons) 4,560 4,610 3,150 3,170 -30% Wastewater electricity use (kWh) 6,199,120 6,198,590 4,268,050 4,295,780 -31% Emissions (MTCO2e) Indirect water 5,960 5,470 1,840 2,250 -62% Indirect wastewater 1,400 1,210 410 470 -66% Direct wastewater 720 720 2,150 2,150 199% Total Annual MTCO2e 8,080 7,400 4,400 4,870 -40% All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. Page 243CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 B -15 BART Emissions Emissions associated with BART ridership decreased 82 percent between 2005 and 2019. This decline is attributable to changes in BART’s electricity portfolio, which in recent years have shifted to favor more renewable and carbon-free sources of energy. BART ridership from community members in unincorporated Contra Costa County increased 29 percent between 2005 and 2019, as shown in Table B-10. Ridership at all stations serving the unincorporated area increased by 10 to 35 percent over this period except for Pittsburg/Bay Point, which saw some of its ridership shift to Pittsburg Center and Antioch with the opening of the BART to Antioch extension in 2018. TABLE B-10: BART ACTIVITY DATA AND GHG EMISSIONS, 2005–2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005–2019 Activity Data BART Ridership (passenger miles) 11,231,870 14,228,420 15,528,840 14,444,740 29% Emissions (MTCO2e) Total Annual MTCO2e 1,040 1,320 1,440 190 -82% All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. Land Use and Sequestration GHG emissions from land use and sequestration can be either positive (a source of emissions) or negative (removing emissions from the atmosphere, creating what is known as an emissions “sink”). Natural lands and trees in urban areas absorb carbon, storing it in wood, plants, and soil. As a result, when natural land is preserved or when more trees are planted, emissions from this sector are negative because GHGs are being removed from the atmosphere. However, developing natural lands or converting them to a different form (for example, replacing forests with crop land) or removing street trees causes carbon to be released, creating GHG emissions. This sector includes emission sources and sinks from three types of activities: sequestration of GHG emissions in locally controlled forested lands, sequestration of GHG emissions in street trees in urbanized unincorporated areas, and emissions caused by permanently removing vegetation from natural lands or farmlands as a part of development. Page 244CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix B B -16 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Emissions and sequestered amounts remained constant in both years for all three activities. Locally-controlled forests and urban trees have not had their sequestration capabilities changed by human activities during the inventory period. While there was some development activity that caused a loss of sequestered GHG emissions, records of when the development specifically occurred are not available, and so the GHG emissions have been assigned equally to both inventory years, hence the lack of changes. Forests sequestered 58,110 MTCO2e annually, while urban trees sequestered 12,750 MTCO2e, for a total carbon sink of 70,860 MTCO2e for the unincorporated area, as shown in Table B-11. TABLE B-11: LAND USE AND SEQUESTRATION ACTIVITY DATA AND GHG EMISSIONS, 2005–2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005 – 2019 Activity Data Acres of forested land 60,050 60,050 60,050 60,050 0% Acres of urban trees 32,780 32,780 32,780 32,780 0% Acres of land use changes 0 0 0 0 0% Emissions (MTCO2e) Forest sequestration -58,110 -58,110 -58,110 -58,110 0% Street tree sequestration -12,750 -12,750 -12,750 -12,750 0% Land use changes 0 0 0 0 0% Total Annual MTCO2e -70,860 -70,860 -70,860 -70,860 0% All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. Wildfire Wildfires create GHG emissions by burning organic materials such as trees and plants, releasing the carbon sequestered in these materials. Larger fires and those that burn through forested areas, as opposed to less densely vegetated ecosystems, release more GHG emissions. The County reported wildfires in the unincorporated area in 2005, 2013, and 2019, but not in 2017. The acreages and emissions of these fires for the unincorporated area are reported in Table B-12. Although wildfire emissions and acreages were lower in 2019 than in 2005, wildfire activity varies widely from year to year, and is generally expected to increase in future years due to climate change. Wildfire emissions are not calculated in the totals presented in this appendix and are for informational purposes only. Page 245CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 B -17 TABLE B-12: WILDFIRE ACTIVITY DATA AND GHG EMISSIONS, 2005–2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005–2019 Activity Data Acres burned 2,070 6,320 0 1,830 -31% Emissions (MTCO2e) Total Annual MTCO2e 14,270 66,080 0 10,100 -29% 2005 wildfires: Bragdon Fire, BNSF Fire, Byron Fire, Vasco Airport Fire, and an unnamed fire south of Antioch. 2013 wildfires: Kirker Fire and Morgan Fire. 2019 wildfires: Marsh 3 Fire, Marsh 5 Fire, Marsh 6 Fire. All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. Stationary Source Emissions Stationary source emissions result from fuel use, such as natural gas or propane, at large industrial facilities. These facilities include refineries, power plants, factories, and similar installations. Natural gas use at these facilities may be included as part of the nonresidential natural gas use reported by PG&E. These facilities are regulated by the State and BAAQMD, and the County does not have direct control over their operations. Emissions from these facilities are therefore not counted toward the County’s total GHG emissions. Table B-13 shows the emissions from stationary sources for the unincorporated area. This information is directly reported by the California Air Resources Board as total emissions. The Board does not report activity data for stationary sources, which would include amounts of fuel burned at these facilities. These emissions are not included in the totals presented in this memorandum and are for informational purposes only. TABLE B-13: STATIONARY SOURCE GHG EMISSIONS, 2005–2019 SECTOR 2005 2013 2017 2019 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2005–2019 Emissions (MTCO2e) Total Annual MTCO2e 13,983,030 11,956,000 11,232,290 10,867,670 -22% All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not equal the sum of individual rows. Page 246CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix B B -18 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 COUNTY OPERATIONS EMISSIONS Sectors The County operations inventory looks at GHG emissions from the following sectors: • Employee commute includes GHG emissions from County employees commuting to and from work, as well as emissions associated with business travel. • Buildings and facilities includes the electricity and natural gas use at County-owned facilities. • Government fleet includes the fuel-use from County-owned vehicles. • Government-generated solid waste includes the waste materials generated at County facilities. • Public lighting includes the electricity use for publicly-owned lights, including streetlights and traffic signals. • Water and wastewater includes emissions associated with water use and wastewater generation at County facilities. • Refrigerants includes the leaks of GHGs from air conditioning systems in County- owned vehicles and buildings. County Operations Inventory Results In 2006, Contra Costa County government operations emissions totaled 54,090 MTCO2e for the sectors reported in this inventory, as shown in Table B-14. In 2017, County government operations GHG emissions were 43,380 MTCO2e, a 20 percent decrease from 2006 levels. This decrease is primarily the result of reductions in energy use, reductions in County fleet emissions, and reductions in employee waste disposal. The 2017 inventory also includes emissions from wastewater treatment and refrigerants, which were not included in the 2006 inventory. Page 247CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 B -19 TABLE B-14: 2006 BASELINE AND 2017 COUNTY-OPERATIONS GHG EMISSIONS SUMMARY SECTOR 2006 GHG EMISSIONS (MTCO2E) 2017 GHG EMISSIONS (MTCO2E) PERCENT CHANGE Employee commute 23,530 25,800 10% Buildings and facilities 19,260 12,500 -35% Government fleet 8,500 3,430 -60% Government-generated solid waste 1,980 900 -54% Public lighting 830 440 -47% Water and wastewater Not included 220 — Refrigerants Not included 90 — Total 54,090 43,380 -20% These inventories assume 8,420 County employees in 2006 and 10,030 employees in 2017, a 19% increase. Note: All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not add up to the sum of individual rows due to rounding. COUNTY OPERATIONS GHG INVENTORY RESULTS BY SECTOR Employee Commute and Travel Tables B-15 and B-16 summarize changes in 2006 and 2017 related to employee commute activities. TABLE B-15: 2006 BASELINE AND 2017 EMPLOYEE COMMUTE AND TRAVEL EMISSIONS ACTIVITY/SOURCE 2006 MTCO2E 2017 MTCO2E PERCENT CHANGE Employee commute 23,530 25,800 10% Page 248CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix B B -20 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 TABLE B-16: 2017 EMPLOYEE COMMUTE ACTIVITY DATA AND GHG EMISSIONS ACTIVITY/SOURCE ACTIVITY DATA UNITS GHG EMISSIONS (MTCO2E) PERCENT Driving alone (gas) 77,173,500 Vehicle miles 24,600 95% Driving alone (electric) 4,494,570 Vehicle miles 0 0% Carpool 1,155,500 Passenger miles 350 1% Transit (BART, bus) 641,830 Passenger miles 100 Less than 1% Motorcycle 425,050 Vehicle miles 749 3% Active transportation (walk, bike) 66,590 Miles 0 0% Telecommute 88,816 Miles 0 0% Total 84,045,860 Miles 25,800 100% Note: All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not add up to the sum of individual rows due to rounding. Although employees’ personal commute is not under the direct operational control of the County, there are a variety of tools and resources available to influence employees’ commute patterns. For this reason, emissions are included in this inventory. Employee commute accounted for in the emissions inventory includes business travel; travel via personal vehicles; carpool; alternative transportation methods, including biking and walking; air travel; and public transit. In 2017, County employees’ commute to work contributed to 25,795 MTCO2e. This is a 10 percent increase in GHG emissions from the 23,530 MTCO2e reported in 2006. Over the years, there was an increase in the number of employees from 8,420 to 10,030 between 2006 and 2017. Commute emissions reflect increased vehicle fuel efficiency, although changes in the number of employees and increases in commute distance balance that out. Buildings and Facilities The buildings and facilities sector includes electricity and natural gas use at County-owned and operated buildings and facilities. Emissions from this sector totaled 19,210 MTCO2e in 2006 and 12,500 MTCO2e in 2017 (see Table B-17), a 35 percent decrease. Page 249CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 B -21 TABLE B-17: 2006 BASELINE AND 2017 BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES ENERGY USE EMISSIONS SUBSECTOR 2006 MTCO2E 2017 MTCO2E PERCENT CHANGE Buildings and facilities – natural gas 11,360 6,300 -44% Buildings and facilities – electricity 7,670 6,200 -19% Total 19,030 12,500 -35% Note: All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not add up to the sum of individual rows due to rounding. Government (County) Fleet The vehicles and equipment used in the County’s daily operations burn gasoline, diesel, propane, and compressed natural gas fuel, resulting in the emission of GHGs. Contra Costa’s 2017 vehicle fleet emissions totaled 3,430 MTCO2e (see Table B-18). This is a 59-percent decrease in GHG emissions from the 8,500 MTCO2e in the 2006 inventory. This is primarily the result of a decrease in on-road vehicle miles traveled and an increase in fuel efficiency between inventory years. TABLE B-18: 2006 BASELINE AND 2017 VEHICLE FLEET EMISSIONS SECTOR 2006 MTCO2E 2017 MTCO2E PERCENT CHANGE Government fleet 8,500 3,430 -59% Solid Waste County operations generates solid waste during normal activity, much of which is eventually landfilled. Emissions from this sector are estimates of methane generation that will result in future years from the waste that was sent to the landfill in the inventory year. Solid waste generated by County employees contributed to a total of 900 MTCO2e in year 2017 (see Table B-19). Solid waste collected from County operations saw a reduction of 54 percent in emissions since the 2006 baseline, where this sector contributed to 1,980 MTCO2e. TABLE B-19: 2006 BASELINE AND 2017 GOVERNMENT-GENERATED SOLID WASTE SECTOR 2006 MTCO2E 2017 MTCO2E PERCENT CHANGE Government-generated solid waste 1,980 900 -54% Page 250CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix B B -22 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Public Lighting Emissions from public lighting owned by the County, such as streetlights, totaled 440 MTCO2e in 2017 (see Table B-20). This is a 47-percent decrease from the 830 MTCO2e reported in 2006. TABLE B-20: 2006 BASELINE AND 2017 PUBLIC LIGHTING SECTOR 2006 MTCO2E 2017 MTCO2E PERCENT CHANGE Public lighting 830 440 -47% Water and Wastewater The water and wastewater treatment sector includes the emissions generated by the electricity needed to move and process the water used and the wastewater generated by County government facilities (indirect water and wastewater), along with direct emissions caused by the processing of County-generated wastewater. Water use and wastewater generation at County facilities generated a total of 220 MTCO2e in 2017 (see Table B-21). The water and wastewater sector was not included in the 2006 baseline inventory. TABLE B-21: 2006 BASELINE AND 2017 WASTEWATER TREATMENT SECTOR 2006 MTCO2E 2017 MTCO2E Indirect Water Not included 180 Indirect Wastewater Not included 20 Direct Wastewater Not included 20 Total Not included 240 Note: All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Totals may not add up to the sum of individual rows due to rounding. Refrigerants Vehicles and buildings with air conditioning use refrigerants that can leak from engines and appliances during normal operation and maintenance. These refrigerants are often GHGs that trap a very large amount of heat per unit of gas, known as gases with a very high global warming potential (GWP). Emissions from refrigerant leaks were accounted for in the 2017 GHG emissions inventory for County government operations. This sector was not included in the 2006 baseline inventory. Refrigerant emissions contributed to 90 MTCO2e in 2017 (see Table B-22). Page 251CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 B -23 TABLE B-22: 2006 BASELINE AND 2017 REFRIGERANTS SECTOR 2006 MTCO2E 2017 MTCO2E Refrigerants Not included 90 CONSUMPTION-BASED INVENTORY EMISSIONS As discussed in Chapter 3, the consumption-based inventory accounts for GHG emissions created by the goods and services used by community members of the unincorporated county, including residents, businesses, and employees. A consumption-based inventory assesses emissions associated with the manufacture, transportation, and disposal of these goods and services, regardless of where they occur. In 2015, BAAQMD worked with the Cool Climate Network at the University of California, Berkeley, to prepare a consumption-based inventory for all Bay Area jurisdictions. This inventory includes GHG emissions from the following sources: • Travel: GHG emissions from fuel use by on-road vehicles, vehicle manufacturing and repairs, public transportation, and air travel. • Housing: GHG emissions from electricity and natural gas use in homes as well as other fuels associated with home heating (such as kerosene or fuel oil), electricity emissions from water and wastewater activities, and waste emissions. This category also includes emissions from the manufacture, transportation, and construction and demolition of materials used to construct houses. • Food: GHG emissions from the growth, processing/manufacturing, and transportation of food products. • Goods: GHG emissions from the manufacture, transportation, and disposal of consumer products, such as home furnishings, appliances and electronics, clothing, and healthcare and personal items. • Services: GHG emissions from personal and business services, including entertainment and recreation, communication, education, healthcare, and maintenance and repair activities. Some of these GHG emission sources are also included in the production-based inventory prepared as part of the 2024 CAP, and others are covered by either the production-based or consumption-based inventory but not both. Table B-23 compares the sources of GHG emissions in the 2024 CAP production-based inventory and the BAAQMD/Cool Climate Network consumption-based inventory. Page 252CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix B B -24 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 TABLE B-23 COMPARISON OF SOURCES IN PRODUCTION-BASED AND CONSUMPTION- BASED GHG EMISSION INVENTORIES SOURCE OF EMISSIONS PRODUCTION-BASED CAP INVENTORY BAAQMD/COOL CLIMATE NETWORK CONSUMPTION- BASED INVENTORY Generation of electricity used Included Included Combustion of natural gas used Included Included Combustion of other home heating fuels used Not included Included Fuel use from on-road vehicles Included Included Fuel use from public transportation Included Included Electricity use from BART Included Included Vehicle manufacturing and repairs Partially included* Included Air travel Not included Included Fuel use from off-road equipment, including construction and landscaping equipment Included Not included Generation of electricity used for water processing and transportation Included Included Generation of electricity used for wastewater processing and transportation Included Unknown† Direct wastewater process emissions Included Not included Landfilling of solid waste Included Included Reprocessing of recyclables Partially included* Included Compost processing Partially included* Included Manufacturing of home-construction materials Partially included* Included Food growth, processing, production, and transportation Partially included* Included Carbon sequestration in forests and street trees Included Not included Other embedded emissions in goods and services Not included Included Note: Due to differences in data sources and analysis methods, the same source of emissions in both inventories may produce different results. * Emissions from energy use, water use, and waste generation associated with these activities are included in the 2024 CAP Update inventory if these activities occur in Contra Costa County. Emissions from these activities outside of Contra Costa County and other emissions associated with these activities in Contra Costa County are not included in the 2024 CAP inventory. † Emissions from these activities are not explicitly called out in the BAAQMD/Cool Climate Network consumption-based inventory but may be included in the total electricity use category. Due to differences in data sources and analysis methods, the same source of emissions in both inventories may produce different results. Page 253CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 B -25 According to the consumption-based inventory, transportation is responsible for 34 percent of emissions produced by activities conducted and good consumed within unincorporated Contra Costa County. Food is responsible for 19 percent, goods and services for 17 percent each, and housing for 13 percent (see Figure B-1). FIGURE B-1. CONSUMPTION-BASED INVENTORY RESULTS 15.50 6.18 8.76 7.89 7.97 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 GHG emissions (MTCO2e per Household) Transportation Housing Food Goods Services Page 254CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix B B -26 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Community-Wide Forecast The forecast of community-wide GHG emissions for the unincorporated area is based on the results of the 2019 community GHG emissions inventory. The project team assumed growth in these emissions consistent with the anticipated growth in unincorporated Contra Costa County’s future population, jobs, and development patterns, developed as part of the Envision Contra Costa buildout calculations. The project team forecast GHG emissions for the calendar years 2030 and 2045. The forecast is a “worst case” scenario that does not assume any efforts are taken, at any level, to reduce GHG emissions beyond the policies that are already in effect in 2019. For many sectors, the GHG forecast assumes that each person in the unincorporated area will continue to contribute the same amount of GHG emissions as they did in 2019, so that the amount of GHG emissions increases proportionally to demographic growth. There are some sectors that are not projected this way: • Transportation, which is projected using a regional traffic demand model based partially on demographics and partially on the location of various land uses. • Agriculture, which is forecast using future land use projections for the amount of agricultural land in the unincorporated area. • Land use and sequestration, which is forecast using future land use projections for developed land, forested land, and any agricultural and open space land that is developed. • Within the off-road equipment sector, emissions from construction and mining equipment are projected using the rate of population and job growth, emissions from industrial equipment are projected using future land use projections for industrial land, and emissions from Transportation Refrigeration Units are projected using the proportion of county-wide road miles in the unincorporated area. The forecast does not project any change in activity or GHG emissions for alternative home heating fuels (propane, kerosene, and wood), direct access electricity, cargo-handling equipment, or oil drilling equipment. Additionally, emissions for the two informational sectors (stationary sources and wildfires) are not forecasted, owing to their informational and substantial uncertainty in projecting future activities for these sectors. These GHG emissions do not have a demographic indicator that staff can use to reasonably project the volume of these emissions in the future, particularly given that they are informational Page 255CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 B -27 items and not included in the total community-wide emissions. Table B-23 shows the demographic projections and their sources for the unincorporated area. TABLE B-23: DEMOGRAPHIC PROJECTIONS, 2019 – 2045 DEMOGRAPHIC 2019 2030 2045 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2019-2045 SOURCE Population 174,150 199,360 239,720 38% ABAG/MTC, Envision Contra Costa Households 60,320 69,210 83,500 38% ABAG/MTC, Envision Contra Costa Jobs 38,760 42,480 48,150 24% US Census Bureau, Envision Contra Costa Service population* 212,910 241,840 287,870 35% ABAG/MTC, US Census Bureau, Envision Contra Costa * Service population is the sum of population and jobs All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Table B-24 shows unincorporated Contra Costa County’s projected future GHG emissions relative to the 2019 inventory. Most sectors show an increase in GHG emissions due to the growing population. Agricultural emissions decrease because the amount of land use for agricultural purposes is projected to decline. Although the land use and sequestration sector is expected to remain a net carbon sink (negative emissions), the amount of emissions sequestered (removed from the atmosphere) by the activities in this sector are projected to decline. This is due to anticipated development of currently undeveloped land, removing the potential for this land to sequester carbon. Sequestration in forested and urbanized areas is projected to increase slightly. Page 256CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix B B -28 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 TABLE B-24: ABSOLUTE GHG EMISSIONS FORECAST, 2019–2045 SECTOR 2019 MTCO2E 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2019–2045 Transportation 464,040 542,020 605,080 30% Residential energy 191,780 217,710 259,380 35% Nonresidential energy 159,520 167,720 180,200 13% Solid waste 220,760 229,450 260,490 18% Agriculture 36,130 34,770 33,410 -8% Off-road equipment 54,010 69,520 76,100 41% Water and wastewater 4,870 5,530 6,590 35% BART 190 220 260 37% Land use and sequestration -70,860 -67,580 -58,890 -17% Total Annual MTCO2e 1,060,440 1,199,360 1,362,620 28% All values rounded to the nearest 10. Due to rounding, totals may not equal the sum of the individual values. Quantification STATE AND REGIONAL GHG EMISSION REDUCTIONS FROM EXISTING ACTIONS California has adopted and is committed to implementing policies that reduce statewide GHG emissions, including those in Contra Costa County. Many of these policies are laid out in the Climate Change Scoping Plan (Scoping Plan), a state document that outlines regulatory and market-based solutions to achieving California’s GHG emission reduction goals. The Scoping Plan was first prepared in 2008, with successive updates in 2014, 2017, and 2022. These updates revised the state-level actions and identified additional opportunities for GHG emission reductions. The Scoping Plan and related documents lay out several policies to reduce California’s GHG emissions, although not all are directly applicable to Contra Costa County. The project team has assessed Contra Costa County’s GHG emissions and identified five state policies that are direclty relevant to the community. This allows the 2024 CAP to provide “credit” to Contra Costa County for these policies. These state efforts are: Page 257CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 B -29 • The Renewables Portfolio Standard (RPS), which requires increases in renewable and carbon-free electricity supplies. RPS was first established in 2002 and has been amended multiple times, most recently by SB 100 in 2018. It requires all electricity providers in the state to obtain at least 33 percent of their electricity from eligible renewable resources by the end of 2020, 60 percent of their electricity from eligible renewable resources by the end of 2030, and all of their electricity from carbon-free (although not necessarily eligible renewable) resources by the end of 2045. This policy reduces GHG emission from electricity use, including electricity used to transport and process water and wastewater, and electricity used for electric vehicles. • The Clean Car Standards, which require increased fuel efficiency of on-road vehicles and decreased carbon intensity of vehicle fuels. In 2002, California adopted AB 1493, the New Passenger Motor Vehicle Greenhouse Gas Emission Standards or Pavley standard. It required a reduction in tailpipe GHG emissions from new vehicles produced from 2009 to 2015. In 2012 CARB adopted an extension of this policy, the Advanced Clean Car Standards, which requires more stringent reductions in tailpipe GHG emissions from vehicles produced from 2016 to 2025. The Clean Car Standards reduce GHG emissions from on-road transportation. In August 2022, CARB adopted another expansion of these standards, known as the Advanced Clean Cars II standards. This regulation requires that all new light-duty vehicles (e.g., passenger cars, small trucks, and SUVs) sold in the state to be zero-emission by 2035, with interim targets for new light-duty vehicle sales beginning in 2026. There are some limited exceptions for plug-in hybrid vehicles. CARB adopted similar rules for heavy-duty vehicles and state and local government fleets in 2020 (Advanced Clean Trucks) and 2023 (Advanced Clean Fleets). Advanced Clean Cars II and Advanced Clean Fleets are not included in the modeling used to assess GHG reductions from the Clean Car Standards. These GHG reductions are counted as part of the reductions associated with Strategy TR-2. • The updated Title 24 building energy efficiency standards require new buildings to achieve increased energy-efficiency targets. The latest version of these standards is set to go into effect January 1, 2023. California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 6 is California’s energy efficiency standards for new and renovated buildings, applied at the local level through the project review and building permit process. The standards are strengthened every three years, with the ultimate goal of making new buildings net- zero energy, meaning that they would generate as much energy as they use. The most recent set of Title 24 standards went into effect on January 1, 2020. On August 11, 2021, the California Energy Commission (CEC) adopted the 2022 Title 24 standards. In December, it was approved by the California Building Standards Commission for Page 258CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix B B -30 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 inclusion into the California Building Standards Code. The 2022 Title 24 standards encourage efficient electric heat pumps, establish electric-ready requirements for new homes, expand solar photovoltaic and battery storage standards, and strengthen ventilation standards. Buildings whose permit applications are applied for on or after January 1, 2023, must comply with the 2022 Title 24 standards. The Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) mandates reduced carbon intensity of fuels used in off-road equipment. The Low Carbon Fuel Standard was adopted in 2009 and required a 10 percent reduction in the carbon intensity of all transportation and equipment fuels by 2020. This policy reduces GHG emissions from on-road transportation and from off-road equipment. The LCFS has since been revised several times, most recently in 2020. The 2020 LCFS requires further reductions in carbon intensity of around 1.25 percent every year until 2030. • The Short-Lived Climate Pollutant Reduction Strategy, also known as Senate Bill (SB) 1383, requires that communities divert 75 percent of organic waste (food scraps, grass, and plant trimmings, etc.) away from landfills and toward alternatives such as composting or energy generation. As a part of this requirement, all jurisdictions must offer curbside composting to single-family and small multifamily properties (less than five units). Larger multifamily properties and businesses must either participate in curbside composting or subscribe to self-haul organic waste to a composting program or collection site. SB 1383 also includes requirements related to diverting surplus food to people in need, increasing the use of products made from recycled organics, and providing more detailed reporting statistics. • Renewable Natural Gas assumes that biomethane and renewable hydrogen fuels will be blended into the fossil gas pipeline and that, in the 2030s, dedicated hydrogen pipelines will be constructed to serve certain industrial clusters. In addition to these five state-level policies, the County’s default electricity provider, MCE, has also taken action to reduce the GHG emissions from the electricity it supplies to Contra Costa community members, beyond the minimum required by RPS. In 2019, MCE electricity was approximately 60 percent renewable and 90 percent carbon-free. In 2023, MCE sourced over 95 percent of its electricity from carbon-free sources. Since MCE supplies more electricity from carbon-free sources than RPS requires it to, the County can receive “credit” for the GHG reductions that result from going beyond the State mininum. Overall, these existing policies are expected to reduce Contra Costa County’s future GHG emissions. Without these policies in place, community-wide GHG emissions in the unincorporated area are expected to be approximatley 1,300,320 MTCO2e by 2045, or 29 Page 259CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 B -31 percent above 2019 levels. With these polices enacted, community-wide GHG absolute emissions in the unincorporated area are projected to be approximately 836,100 MTCO2e by 2045, or 17 percent below 2019 levels. Table B-25 shows the absolute reductions achieved by these policies. TABLE B-25: ABSOLUTE GHG EMISSIONS WITH EXISTING ACTIONS (2019–2045) 2019 2030 2045 PERCENTAGE CHANGE, 2019–2045 Forecast emissions without state and regional actions 1,060,440 1,199,360 1,362,620 28% Reductions from RPS - -24,620 -115,400 - Reductions from Clean Car standards - -110,250 -214,120 - Reductions from Title 24 - 10,460 33,710 - Reductions from LCFS (off-road only)* - -740 -7,430 - Reductions from SB 1383 - -21,880 -53,870 - Reductions from renewable natural gas 17,810 73,670 Reductions from MCE clean energy procurement - -1,240 - - Reductions from all actions - -185,520 -483,340 - Emissions with state and regional actions 1,060,440 1,013,840 879,280 -17% Note: All numbers are rounded to the nearest 10. Due to rounding, totals may not equal the sum of the individual values. * Due to the methods used in the forecast and assessment of state GHG reduction potential, future projections for off-road equipment GHG emissions are higher than forecast above. TECHNICAL DATA FOR GHG REDUCTION STRATEGIES This section discusses the data sources, methods, and assumptions for the quantification of the GHG-reduction strategies included in the Contra Costa County 2024 CAP. In addition to the sources presented here, these calculations also rely on the GHG inventory and forecast. These calculations rely on emission factors that reflect the reductions already achieved by the existing actions discussed in the previous section. Table B-26 shows these emission factors. Page 260CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix B B -32 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 TABLE B-26: EMISSION FACTORS WITH EXISTING ACTIONS (2019–2045) ACTIVITY TYPE UNITS 2019 2030 2045 Electricity (PG&E) MTCO2e/kWh 0.000108 0.000077 0.000000 Electricity (MCE) MTCO2e/kWh 0.000045 0.000044 0.000000 Electricity (direct access) MTCO2e/kWh 0.000187 0.000134 0.000000 Electricity (PG&E and MCE) MTCO2e/kWh 0.000054 0.000047 0.000000 Natural gas MTCO2e/Therms 0.005310 0.005311 0.005310 Propane MTCO2e/Gallons 0.005845 0.005845 0.005845 Kerosene MTCO2e/Gallons 0.010417 0.010417 0.010417 Wood MTCO2e/MMBTU 0.095664 0.095664 0.095664 On-road transportation MTCO2e/VMT 0.000408 0.000325 0.000408 Solid waste (MSW) MTCO2e/Tons 0.261659 0.261678 0.261676 Solid waste (ADC) MTCO2e/Tons 0.245383 0.245132 0.245854 Solid waste (combined) MTCO2e/Tons 0.004628 0.003958 0.260191 BART MTCO2e/Passenger miles 0.000013 0.000008 0.000013 For each strategy, this appendix discusses the following items: • The savings in activity data (e.g., kWh of electricity or tons of solid waste) in 2030 and 2045 resulting from implementing the strategy as described. A negative value indicates an increase in activity data. • The decreases in GHG emissions in 2030 and 2045 resulting from implementing the strategy as described. • The assumptions made about the strategy’s performance, such as the level of community participation required to achieve the specified reductions by 2030 and 2045. • The performance targets, which are quantifiable metrics about the projected level of success the strategy must meet to achieve the specified reductions by 2030 and 2045. • Sources: Key studies, analyses, and other sources of data used to inform the quantification. This does not include the GHG inventory, forecast, or other technical analyses prepared as part of the 2024 CAP or the 2045 Contra Costa General Plan. Page 261CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 B -33 CLEAN AND EFFICIENT BUILT ENVIRONMENT Strategy BE-1: Require and incentivize new buildings and additions built in unincorporated Contra Costa County to be low-carbon or carbon neutral. ACTIVITY DATA SAVINGS ACTIVITY DATA TYPE 2030 2045 Natural gas savings (therms) 2,608,380 2,616,320 Electricity savings (kWh) -5,048,670 -5,151,330 GHG SAVINGS 2030 MTCO2E 20545MTCO2E GHG reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 13,620 11,120 KEY ASSUMPTIONS 2030 2045 Cumulative percent of residential new construction built to be all-electric 95% 95% Cumulative % of new office construction built to be all-electric 80% 95% Cumulative % of new non-office commercial construction built to be all- electric 75% 90% Cumulative % new non-residential buildings that are office space: 20% 20% PERFORMANCE TARGETS 2030 2045 Number of new all-electric residential units 8,450 22,020 Number of new all-electric commercial buildings 220 580 SOURCES American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE). 2015. “ASHRAE Technical FAQ”. Page 262CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix B B -34 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 California Energy Commission. 2006. 2006 California Commercial End-Use Survey (CEUS). https://www.energy.ca.gov/datB-reports/surveys/californiB-commercial-end-use- survey/2006-californiB-commercial -end-use-survey. California Energy Commission. 2021. 2019 California Residential Appliance Saturation Study (RASS). https://www.energy.ca.gov/datB-reports/surveys/2019-residential-appliance- saturation-study. Strategy BE-2: Retrofit existing buildings and facilities in the unincorporated County, and County infrastructure, to reduce energy use and convert to low-carbon or carbon -neutral fuels. In March 2023, BAAQMD adopted amendments to Regulation 9, Rules 4 and 6. These revisions require that, when existing natural-gas-powered space heaters and water heaters reach the end of their operational life, they be replaced with electric-powered models. These requirements are scheduled to take effect in 2027 to 2031 for water heaters (depending on the capacity of the unit) and in 2029 for space heaters. ACTIVITY DATA SAVINGS ACTIVITY DATA TYPE 2030 2045 Electricity savings (kWh) – With BAAQMD rule 85,410,090 136,786,980 Natural gas savings (therms) – With BAAQMD rule 13,853,380 39,917,870 Propane savings (gallons) – With BAAQMD rule 404,380 838,540 Gallons kerosene 2,090 5,500 MMBTU wood 13,010 34,300 GHG SAVINGS WITH BAAQMD RULE 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E GHG reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 81,140 177,830 Page 263CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 B -35 KEY ASSUMPTIONS 2030 2045 Percent of existing homes conducting standard retrofits 20% 40% Percent of existing homes upgrading to Title 24 Standards 20% 40% Percent of existing mobile homes conducting standard retrofits 30% 60% Percent of businesses conducting standard retrofits (not including fuel switching) 15% 25% Percent of businesses retrofitting to current Title 24 standards (not including fuel switching) 15% 25% Cumulative percent of existing commercial buildings eligible for fuel switching 40% 40% Cumulative percent of residential cooktops and clothes dryers undergoing fuel switching 5% 60% Cumulative percent of residential water and space heaters undergoing fuel switching 40% 95% Cumulative percent of commercial cooktops and clothes dryers undergoing fuel switching 5% 50% Cumulative percent of commercial water and space heaters undergoing fuel switching 40% 95% Average number of newly electric appliances in units or commercial buildings undergoing electrification 2 4 PERFORMANCE TARGETS 2030 2045 Number of housing units undergoing energy efficiency retrofits 14,160 28,310 Number of housing units brought up to current Title 24 energy efficiency standards 13,210 26,430 Number of commercial buildings undergoing energy efficiency retrofits 490 820 Number of commercial buildings brought up to current Title 24 energy efficiency standards 490 820 Number of existing residential units electrifying appliances 9,850 33,000 Number of existing commercial buildings electrifying appliances 100 620 Page 264CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix B B -36 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 SOURCES American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE). 2015. “ASHRAE Technical FAQ”. California Energy Commission. 2006. 2006 California Commercial End-Use Survey (CEUS). https://www.energy.ca.gov/datB-reports/surveys/californiB-commercial-end-use- survey/2006-californiB-commercial-end-use-survey. California Energy Commission. 2014. Impact Evaluation of the California Comprehensive Residential Retrofit Programs. California Energy Commission. 2021. 2019 California Residential Appliance Saturation Study (RASS). https://www.energy.ca.gov/datB-reports/surveys/2019-residential-appliance- saturation-study. California Public Utilities Commission. 2017. Final Report: 2015 Home Upgrade Program Impact Evaluation. https://www.calmac.org/publications/RES_5.1_HUP_FINAL_REPORT_ATR_06-30-17.pdf. US Department of Energy. n.d. “Energy-Efficient Manufactured Homes.” https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/energy-efficient-manufactured-homes. Strategy BE-3: Increase the amount of electricity used and generated from renewable sources in the county. ACTIVITY DATA SAVINGS ACTIVITY DATA TYPE 2030 2045 Electricity savings (kWh) 114,969,980 271,666,080 GHG SAVINGS 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E GHG reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 10,820 0 Page 265CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 B -37 KEY ASSUMPTIONS 2030 2045 Percent of existing homes installing solar energy systems 15% 35% Percent of existing homes with solar energy systems and installing battery storage systems 20% 50% Percent of new homes installing battery storage systems 40% 60% Percent of existing businesses installing solar energy systems 3% 11% Percent of existing businesses with solar energy systems and battery storage systems 15% 45% Percent of residents enrolling in MCE 90% 90% Percent of businesses enrolling in MCE 90% 90% Percent of residents enrolling in 100% renewable tiers 10% 30% Percent of businesses enrolling in 100% renewable tiers 5% 20% Percent of direct access customers switching to MCE 5% 10% PERFORMANCE TARGETS 2030 2045 Residential solar systems installed 9,190 23,030 Residential battery systems installed 5,330 0 Nonresidential solar systems installed 30 290 Nonresidential battery systems installed 10 0 Residential electricity supplied by MCE (kWh) 271,041,850 291,475,310 Residential electricity provided at Deep Green tier (kWh) 25,732,490 83,017,260 Nonresidential electricity provided by MCE (kWh) 219,158,600 220,222,390 Nonresidential electricity provided at Deep Green tier (kWh) 10,521,500 42,290,280 SOURCES California Distributed Generation Statistics. 2021. Interconnected Project Sites, 2021-09-30 [data set]. https://www.californiadgstats.ca.gov/archives/interconnection_rule21_projects/. Page 266CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix B B -38 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 MCE. 2020. Operational Integrated Resource Plan, 2021- 2030. https://www.mcecleanenergy.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/MCE-Operational- Integrated-Resource-Plan_2021.pdf. National Renewable Energy Laboratory. n.d. “PVWatts”. https://pvwatts.nrel.gov/. NO WASTE CONTRA COSTA Strategy NW-1: Increase composting of organic waste. ACTIVITY DATA SAVINGS ACTIVITY DATA TYPE 2030 2045 Waste savings (tons) 5,580 9,190 GHG SAVINGS 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E GHG reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 2,240 4,000 KEY ASSUMPTIONS 2030 2045 Current compost diversion rate 77% 77% Target compost diversion rate 90% 95% PERFORMANCE TARGETS 2030 2045 Number of households with composting service 62,290 79,330 Number of businesses with composting service 2,930 3,510 SOURCES California Air Resources Board. 2011. Landfill Methane Emissions Tool [data table]. https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/documents/landfill-methane-emissions-tool. Page 267CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 B -39 California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery. 2019. “Residential Waste Stream by Material Type”. https://www2.calrecycle.ca.gov/WasteCharacterization/ResidentialStreams?lg=7&cy=7. California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery. 2019. “Waste Characterization Tool for California Jurisdictions”. https://www2.calrecycle.ca.gov/WasteCharacterization/. Contra Costa County. 2020. Climate Action Plan Progress Report for 2020. https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_12142020-3083. Strategy NW-2: Reduce waste from County operations. ACTIVITY DATA SAVINGS ACTIVITY DATA TYPE 2030 2045 Waste savings (tons) 2,630 3,510 GHG SAVINGS 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E GHG reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 1,090 1,620 KEY ASSUMPTIONS 2030 2045 Target composting diversion rate for County activities 85% 95% Target recycling diversion rate for County activities 85% 95% PERFORMANCE TARGETS 2030 2045 Weekly average cubic yards of composted organics (uncompacted) 1,050 1,140 Weekly average cubic yards of recycled materials (uncompacted) 270 300 SOURCES California Air Resources Board. 2011. Landfill Methane Emissions Tool [data table]. https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/documents/landfill-methane-emissions-tool. Page 268CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix B B -40 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery. 2019. “Residential Waste Stream by Material Type.” https://www2.calrecycle.ca.gov/WasteCharacterization/ResidentialStreams?lg=7&cy=7. California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery. 2019. “Waste Characterization Tool for California Jurisdictions”. https://www2.calrecycle.ca.gov/WasteCharacterization/. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. 2006. “2006 IPCC Guidelines for National Greenhouse Gas Inventories.” https://www.ipcc-nggip.iges.or.jp/public/2006gl/index.html. Strategy NW-3: Increase community-wide recycling and waste programs. ACTIVITY DATA SAVINGS ACTIVITY DATA TYPE 2030 2045 Waste savings (tons) 5,560 16,770 GHG SAVINGS 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E GHG reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 520 2,530 KEY ASSUMPTIONS 2030 2045 Target community diversion rate 77% 85% Decrease in non-organic and non-recyclable waste tonnage 20% 50% PERFORMANCE TARGETS 2030 2045 Reduction in landfilled recyclables (tons) 0 1,280 Decrease in non-compostable/recyclable tonnage (tons) 5,560 15,490 Pounds of waste per person per day 2.08 1.85 Page 269CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 B -41 SOURCES California Air Resources Board. 2011. Landfill Methane Emissions Tool [data table]. https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/documents/landfill-methane-emissions-tool. California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery. 2019. “Residential Waste Stream by Material Type”. https://www2.calrecycle.ca.gov/WasteCharacterization/ResidentialStreams?lg=7&cy=7. California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery. 2019. “Waste Characterization Tool for California Jurisdictions”. https://www2.calrecycle.ca.gov/WasteCharacterization/. United States Environmental Protection Agency. 2016. Volume-to-Weight Conversion Factors. https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2016- 04/documents/volume_to_weight_conversion_factors_memorandum_04192016_508fnl.pdf. REDUCE WATER USE AND INCREASE DROUGHT RESILIENCE Strategy DR-1: Reduce indoor and outdoor water use. ACTIVITY DATA SAVINGS ACTIVITY DATA TYPE 2030 2045 Electricity savings (kWh) 1,436,210 2,560,780 Water (MG) 360 650 GHG SAVINGS 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E GHG reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 970 1,440 KEY ASSUMPTIONS 2030 2045 Percent of existing homes with graywater systems 5% 20% Percent of existing businesses with graywater systems 2% 10% Percent of existing homes retrofitting water fixtures 60% 90% Percent of existing businesses retrofitting water fixtures 60% 90% Percent of new homes with graywater systems 10% 35% Percent of new businesses with graywater systems 5% 20% Page 270CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix B B -42 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 PERFORMANCE TARGETS 2030 2045 Number of residential graywater system installations 3,910 20,180 Number of commercial graywater systems installations 70 440 Number of nonresidential buildings receiving water efficiency upgrades 1,790 2,680 Number of residential buildings receiving water efficiency upgrades 36,190 54,290 SOURCES Environmental Protection Agency. 2009. “Water Efficiency in the Commercial and Institutional Sector: Considerations for a WaterSense Program.” https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2017-03/documents/ws-commercial-ci- whitepaper.pdf State of California, Natural Resources Agency, Department of Water Resources. 2014. “California Water Plan Update 2013.” State of California, Natural Resources Agency, Department of Water Resources. 2019. “California Water Plan Update 2018.” https://water.ca.gov/-/media/DWR-Website/Web- Pages/Programs/CaliforniB-Water-Plan/Docs/Update2018/Final/CaliforniB-Water-Plan- Update-2018.pdf Water Research Foundation. 2016. “Residential End Uses of Water Study, Version 2: Executive Report.” Strategy DR-2: Ensure sustainable and diverse water supplies. This is a supportive measure that does not result in direct measureable GHG emissions. There are no activity or GHG savings, assumptions, performance indicators, or sources associated with this measure. Page 271CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 B -43 CLEAN TRANSPORTATION NETWORK Strategy TR-1: Improve the viability of walking, biking, zero-emission commuting, and using public transit for travel within, to, and from the county. ACTIVITY DATA SAVINGS ACTIVITY DATA TYPE 2030 2045 Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) 52,447,950 153,067,310 GHG SAVINGS 2030 MTCO2E 20545MTCO2E GHG reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 17,050 40,370 KEY ASSUMPTIONS 2030 2045 Miles of bicycle lanes 45 132 Average round trip length for bicyclee trips (miles) 2.1 2.1 Is bike parking provided in most nonresidential locations? Yes Yes % increase in combined housing units/acre due to TOD 15% 63% % increase in jobs/acre due to TOD 10% 45% Percent increase in transit frequency 5% 15% Level of implementation (increase in transit frequency) 10% 25% Percent increase in transit service miles 5% 15% Percent of employers participating in TDM 5% 20% Average trip reduction from voluntary TDM participation 15% 45% Percent of county with expanded sidewalks 5% 15% Change in percent of households that have access to electric bike sharing 5% 9% Percent of multifamily units permanently designated as affordable 5% 15% Percent of transit routes that receive supportive treatments 1% 2% Page 272CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix B B -44 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 PERFORMANCE TARGETS 2030 2045 Miles of bicycle lanes 50 130 Bicycle mode share 1% 1% Bus ridership (commute share) 5% 15% BART ridership (passenger miles) 17,227,850 22,459,900 VMT reduction from TDM programs 1,705,370 25,757,280 New affordable multifamily units 70 540 Percent of transit routes that receive supportive treatments 1% 2% Change in percent of households that have access to electric bike sharing 5% 9% SOURCES California Air Pollution Control Officers Association. 2010. “Quantifying Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Measures.” http://www.aqmd.gov/docs/default-source/ceqa/handbook/capcoB- quantifying-greenhouse-gas-mitigation-measures.pdf. Contra Costa Transportation Authority. 2018. “Contra Costa Countywide Bicycle Pedestrian Plan.” https://ccta.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/5b8ec26192756.pdf. US Census. “Contra Costa County 2019 ACS 5-Year Estimates, Table B08006.” Strategy TR-2: Increase the use of zero-emissions vehicles. Transition to a zero-emission County fleet by 2035 and a community fleet that is at least 50 percent zero-emission by 2030. ACTIVITY DATA SAVINGS ACTIVITY DATA TYPE 2030 2045 Electricity used (kWh) -111,003180 -253,986,510 Natural gas (gallons) 2,760 5,450 Diesel (gallons) 530,690 1,353,420 VMT 14,260 14,260 Page 273CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 B -45 GHG SAVINGS 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E GHG reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 130,160 329,360 KEY ASSUMPTIONS 2030 2045 Percent of county vehicles that are zero-emission 80% 95% Percent of community fleet that is zero-emission (light-duty) 35% 85% Target percent of total community TNC VMT from electric vehicles 75% 90% Percent of community fleet that is zero-emission (heavy-duty) 10% 70% Target percent total commercial Natural Gas VMT replaced by biomethane 2% 5% Target percent total commercial Diesel VMT replaced by biomethane 5% 15% Percent of lawn and garden fuel use converted to electric 30% 80% Percent construction equipment fuel use converted to electric 30% 60% Percent other commercial fuel use converted to electric 20% 55% Number of EVs in EV car sharing 50 100 PERFORMANCE TARGETS 2030 2045 New VMT from electric vehicles, community-wide 325,676,160 950,943,040 Reduction in municipal vehicle gasoline use (gallons) 230,120 250,030 New VMT from electric vehicles, TNC 82,961,910 101,629,820 Reduction in offroad gasoline use (gallons) 2,113,740 0 Reduction in offroad diesel use (gallons) 3,625,240 0 Increase in biomethane VMT 3,003,670 8,050,840 Number of EVs in car sharing 50 100 SOURCES California Air Pollution Control Officers Association. 2010. “Quantifying Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Measures.” http://www.aqmd.gov/docs/default-source/ceqa/handbook/capcoB- quantifying-greenhouse-gas-mitigation-measures.pdf. Page 274CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix B B -46 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 California Air Resources Board. 2010. “Local Government Operations Protocol For the quantification and reporting of greenhouse gas emissions inventories.” https://ww3.arb.ca.gov/cc/protocols/localgov/pubs/lgo_protocol_v1_1_2010-05-03.pdf. California Air Resources Board. 2020. “2020 Emissions Model for Small Off-Road Engines – SORE2020.” https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2020- 09/SORE2020_Technical_Documentation_2020_09_09_Final_Cleaned_ADA.pdf. California Air Resources Board. 2021. “Handbook for Analyzing Greenhouse Gas Emission Reductions, Assessing Climate Vulnerabilities, and Advancing Health and Equity.” https://www.airquality.org/ClimateChange/Documents/Handbook%20Public%20Draft_2021 -Aug.pdf. California Air Resources Board. 2021. EMFAC2021 V1.0.1 Emission Inventory. https://arb.ca.gov/emfac/emissions-inventory/. Contra Costa Transportation Authority. 2018. “Contra Costa Countywide Bicycle Pedestrian Plan.” https://ccta.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/5b8ec26192756.pdf. Contra Costa Transportation Authority. 2019. “Contra Costa Electric Vehicle Readiness Blueprint.” https://ccta.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/CCTB-EV-Blueprint.pdf. US Department of Energy. 2021. “FuelEconomy.gov”. https://fueleconomy.gov/. RESILIENT COMMUNITIES AND NATURAL INFRASTRUCTURE Strategy NI-4: Sequester carbon on natural and working lands in Contra Costa County. ACTIVITY DATA SAVINGS There are no activity data savings associated with this strategy. GHG SAVINGS 2030 MTCO2E 2045 MTCO2E GHG reduction (Absolute MTCO2e) 22,630 88,910 Page 275CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Technical GHG Appendix Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 B -47 KEY ASSUMPTIONS 2030 2045 Percent of irrigated crops with seasonal cover crops 15% 35% Percent of irrigated crops practicing mulching 5% 35% Percent of irrigated crops with compost application 15% 80% Percent of irrigated crops with field borders 2% 8% Percent of irrigated crops practicing alley cropping 10% 30% Percent of irrigated crops with conservation crop rotation 25% 50% Percent of irrigated crops practicing reduced tillage 15% 35% Percent of irrigated crops practicing no tillage 5% 10% Percent of orchards/vineyards with seasonal cover crops 5% 25% Percent of orchards/vineyards practicing mulching 5% 25% Percent of orchards/vineyards with compost application 15% 80% Percent of orchards/vineyards with windbreaks 0% 2% Percent of orchards with reduced tilling 10% 35% Percent of vineyards with reduced tilling 10% 35% Percent of pastures and rangeland with compost application 5% 15% Percent of pastures and rangeland with prescribed grazing 15% 40% Percent of pastures and rangeland practicing oak restoration 1% 5% Percent of pastures and rangeland practicing riparian restoration 0% 1.2% Percent of rangeland with range planting 2% 10% Percent of grasslands with native grass restoration 2% 10% Percent of forested areas undergoing annual fuel reduction 5% 25% Page 276CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix B B -48 Contra Costa County - Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 PERFORMANCE TARGETS 2030 2045 Acres of irrigated crops with seasonal cover crops 3,770 8,130 Acres of irrigated crops practicing mulching 1,260 8,130 Acres of irrigated crops with compost application 3,770 18,590 Acres of irrigated crops with field borders 500 1,860 Acres of irrigated crops converted due to alley cropping 510 1,480 Acres of irrigated crops with conservation crop rotation 6,280 11,620 Acres of irrigated crops practicing reduced tillage 3,770 8,130 Acres of irrigated crops practicing no tillage 1,260 2,320 Acres of orchards or vineyards with seasonal cover crops 220 1,060 Acres of orchards or vineyards practicing mulching 220 1,060 Acres of orchards or vineyards with compost application 660 3,380 Acres of orchards or vineyards with windbreaks - 80 Acres of orchards with reduced tilling 250 790 Acres of vineyards with reduced tilling 210 690 Acres of pastures and rangeland with compost application 7,430 21,430 Acres of pastures and rangeland with prescribed grazing 22,300 57,140 Acres of pastures and rangeland practicing oak restoration 1,490 7,140 Acres of pastures and rangeland practicing riparian restoration - 1,710 Acres of rangeland with range planting 2,870 13,780 Acres of grasslands with native grass restoration 2,610 13,150 Acres of forested areas undergoing annual fuel reduction 3,030 15,250 SOURCES California Air Resources Board. 2010. “Local Government Operations Protocol For the quantification and reporting of greenhouse gas emissions inventories.” https://ww3.arb.ca.gov/cc/protocols/localgov/pubs/lgo_protocol_v1_1_2010-05-03.pdf. Page 277CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CLIMATE ACTION PLAN APPENDIX C: VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 C -1 In January 2019, Contra Costa County prepared a vulnerability assessment in compliance with Section 65302 of the California Government Code in order to identify key vulnerable assets and populations within the County and set the groundwork for short and long-term adaptation efforts. This vulnerability assessment highlighted the County’s potential vulnerabilities to agricultural pests and diseases, changes in air quality, drought, extreme heat, flooding, fog, human health hazards, landslides and debris flows, severe storms, sea level rise, shoreline flooding, and wildfire. METHOD The Vulnerability Assessment follows the recommended process in the California Adaptation Planning Guide (APG). The APG suggests vulnerability assessments follow a four- step process, including the following steps, as shown in Figure C-1: • Identify Exposure. Exposure is the presence of people; infrastructure; natural systems; and economic, cultural, and social resources in areas subject to harm from hazardous conditions. A hazard, or climate hazard, is an event or physical condition that has the potential to cause types of harm or loss. The project team looked at the exposure of different populations and assets to specific climate change hazards. • Analyze Sensitivity and Potential Impacts. Sensitivity is the level to which changing climate conditions affect a species, natural system, community, government, etc. Potential impacts are the effects of a climate change hazard, or the combination of exposure and sensitivity. The project team first identified which hazard would likely affect particular populations and assets because not all hazards will affect all populations or assets. For example, human health hazards are likely to affect most populations, but they would not affect the structural stability of a bridge or a dam. The project team then evaluated the severity of the impacts from the climate change hazard, to generate an impact score ranging from High (most severe) to Low (least severe). Page 278CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix C C -2 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 • Evaluate Adaptive Capacity. Adaptive capacity is the ability of people and assets to adjust to potential damage from climate change hazards, to take advantage of existing opportunities such as funding, tools, and resources, or to respond to the impacts of climate change. The project team evaluated the adaptive capacity of each population or asset for each applicable identified hazard. As with impact scoring, the project team scored the adaptive capacity of populations or assets ranging from High (more adaptable to a hazard) to Low (least adaptable to a hazard). • Conduct Vulnerability Scoring. Vulnerability is the degree to which populations and assets are susceptible to harm, based on a combination of impact and adaptive capacity for each applicable identified hazard as affected by the level of exposure to changing climate conditions. In accordance with the process in the APG, the project team used the impact and adaptive capacity scoring to identify and prioritize the most vulnerable populations and assets in Contra Costa County. FIGURE C-1. CALIFORNIA ADAPTATION PLANNING GUIDE RECOMMENDED MODEL Step 1. Identify Exposure Step 2. Analyze Sensitivities & Potential Impacts Step 3. Evaluate Adaptive Capacity Step 4. Conduct Vulnerability Scoring Page 279CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 C -3 People with something in common that may make them more vulnerable to climate-related hazards than the average person. Populations Structures that provide various services to Contra Costa County community members. Infrastructure Homes, nonresidential buildings, and other land uses. Buildings Properties and activities that make significant contributions to the Contra Costa County economy. Important economic assets Different types of wild and natural land. Ecosystems and natural resources Important functions to community members provided by government agencies and private companies. Key community services Key Concepts in Climate Change Vulnerability Exposures: the presence of people, infrastructure, natural systems, and economic, cultural, and social resources in areas that are subject to harmFor example, the number and frequency of extreme heat days is expected to increase across Contra Costa County. To prepare this vulnerability assessment, the project team determined which effects of climate change are expected to occur in and around Contra Costa County, as well as those that may already be occurring. Sensivity: the degree to which a species, natural system, or community, government, and other associated systems would be affected by changing climate conditions. The project team prepared a list of the various types of people and assets in and around Contra Costa County that could be affected by climate change to be included in the vulnerability assessment. Impact: a specific negative result of a climate change effect, generally on a particular population or asset. Impact is often determined by the combination of exposure and sensitivity. For example, if the effect of climate change is that droughts are likely to become more frequent and severe, a potential impact to farmers is that less water could be available for irrigation. Every population and asset in Contra Costa County is likely to experience different impacts. In this vulnerability assessment, the project team looked at the potential impacts to each sensitivity from each identified exposure. Adaptive Capacity: the combination of the strengths, attributes, and resources available to an individual, community, society, or organization that can be used to prepare for and undertake actions to reduce adverse impacts [or] moderate harm or to exploit beneficial opportunities.” Adaptive capacity it is the ability to adjust to potential damage, to take advantage of opportunities, or to respond to consequences. For example, during extreme heat events, populations with a greater risk of heat-related illnesses can go to cooling centers, which improve their adaptive capacity. The project team looked at the adaptive capacity of each sensitivity for each identified exposure as part of the vulnerability assessment. Page 280CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix C C -4 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Assessment Process Following the APG’s recommended process, the project team selected the hazards that made the most sense to analyze in the vulnerability assessment. The project team reviewed various guidance documents and reports to select these exposures and sensitivities, including the Adaptation Planning Guide, the Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan, and the County’s existing General Plan. Once these were identified, the project team looked at who and what in the community are likely to be affected by which hazards since not all hazards will affect all populations and assets. For example, human health hazards affect most population sensitivities, but they would not affect the structural stability of a bridge or a dam. The project team then assessed the impacts and adaptive capacity for each relevant hazard for all affected populations and assets. County staff from various departments and a representative from the Contra Costa County Sustainability Commission with related technical expertise reviewed the impact, adaptive capacity, and vulnerability scores to provide local knowledge and additional accuracy for the assessment. Potential Impact Cascading Impacts: Climate change hazards can have cascading or compounding effects throughout the county. Cascading or compounding climate change effects means one climate change hazard leads to another, and the effects can “cascade” into a disaster. Human health hazards, for example, have cascading effects, such as rendering workers unable to work and visitors unable to travel to an area, that harm both economic drivers and key community services. The project team accounted for these when developing the applicability matrix, during the assessment process, and while summarizing the vulnerability results. Page 281CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 C -5 To identify the magnitude of the impacts of each relevant hazards on the populations and assets, the project team considered a number of different questions that helped ensure that the assessment broadly covers the range of potential harm. Examples of these questions include: • What types of impacts may occur? Could they cause physical injury or damage? Is there a risk of behavioral or mental harm, loss of economic activity, or other nonphysical effects? • How many people or community assets could be affected by both direct and indirect harm? • How long would the impacts persist? • Is there a substantial chance of death or widespread destruction? Based on the results of the impact assessment (IM), the County ranked each population and asset on a five-point scale (0 – 4) for each relevant hazard. IM0 is the lowest score (lowest impact), and IM4 is the highest score (highest impact). Impact is a negative quality, so a lower impact score is better. Contra Costa County adjusted these scores up or down to account for risk levels and onset. Table C-1 provides more detail about what each impact score means. Direct and Indirect Impacts Direct and Indirect Impacts: The project team marked the hazard as applicable to the population or asset if the hazard directly or indirectly affects a population or asset. Direct impacts affect physical assets, health, or immediate operations, which can lead to indirect impacts on the broader system or community, including asset types in a different category. For example, severe weather can directly damage electrical transmission lines and cause power outages, which can indirectly impact persons with chronic illnesses who depend on electricity for life support systems. Therefore, the project team marked both electrical transmission lines and persons with chronic illnesses who depend on life support systems as being potentially affected by severe weather, the project team evaluated them for their ibili h i h Page 282CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix C C -6 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 TABLE C-1: IMPACT SCORE RUBRIC Impact Score Meaning (People and Ecosystems) Meaning (Buildings, Infrastructure, Services, and Economic Drivers) IM0. Minimal Impact Community members may not notice any change. Damage, interruption in service, or impacts on the local economy are small or intermittent enough to mostly go unnoticed. IM1. Low Impact Community members notice minor effects. Daily life may experience mild, occasional disruptions. There are minor but noticeable interruptions in service, damage, or negative effects on the economy. IM2. Moderate Impact There is a marked impact to the community. Quality of life may decline. Impacts may be chronic, and at times substantial. Damage, service interruptions, and other impacts are clearly evident. Impacts may be chronic and occasionally substantial. IM3. Significant Impact The well-being of the community declines significantly. The community’s current lifestyle and behavior may no longer be possible. Impacts are chronic. Buildings, infrastructure, and services may be often or always unable to meet community demand. Large sections of the economy experience major hardships. IM4. Severe Impact There is a severe risk of widespread injury or death to people, or of significant or total ecosystem loss. Buildings, infrastructure, and services cannot function as intended or needed. Economic activities are not viable. Adaptive Capacity The project team next assessed the adaptive capacity of each population and asset for each relevant hazard. Using a similar process as the team used to analyzed impacts, the County considered various questions to help ensure that the adaptive capacity assessment addresses the full potential of a sensitivity to resist and recover from harm. Examples of these questions include: • Are there existing programs and policies to provide assistance? Can affected community members take advantage of these programs? • Are there barriers that limit response or recovery? Are these barriers financial limitations, political challenges, lack of access to technology or other resources, or others? Page 283CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 C -7 • For community assets, do alternatives exist in or near Contra Costa County that community members can use? Based on the results of the adaptive capacity (AC) assessment, the project team ranked each sensitivity on a five-point scale (0 - 4) ranging from AC0 (the lowest adaptive capacity) to AC4 (the highest adaptive capacity). Adaptive capacity is a positive quality, so a higher adaptive capacity score is better. As recommended by the APG, the project team adjusted the adaptive capacity scores to ensure that they reflect risk levels and onset periods. Table C-2 provides more detail about what each adaptive capacity score means. TABLE C-2: ADAPTIVE CAPACITY SCORE RUBRIC Adaptive Capacity Score Meaning (All Sensitivities) AC0. No Adaptive Capacity Currently, there are no feasible means of adapting. AC1. Low Adaptive Capacity Adaptive solutions are available, but they are expensive, technologically difficult, and/or politically unpopular. AC2. Some Adaptive Capacity Some adaptation methods are available, but not always feasible. Adapting may create significant challenges for some sensitivities. AC3. High Adaptive Capacity Adaptation solutions are feasible for most or all sensitivities. There may be occasional or small-scale challenges to implementing adaptation methods. AC4. Outstanding Adaptive Capacity Sensitivities can adapt with little or no effort. Quality of life is unchanged or may improve. Page 284CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix C C -8 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Vulnerability Scoring The project team used the impact and adaptive capacity scores for each sensitivity and relevant exposure to determine a vulnerability score. The vulnerability (V) score reflects how susceptible the sensitivity is to be harmed by a particular exposure. Vulnerability is assessed on a scale of V1 to V5: Table C-3 shows how different impact and adaptive capacity scores translate to a vulnerability score. TABLE C-3: SCORING MATRIX Impact Score IM0 IM1 IM2 IM3 IM4 Adaptive Capacity Score AC0 V3 V4 V5 V5 V5 AC1 V2 V3 V4 V5 V5 AC2 V1 V2 V3 V4 V5 AC3 V1 V1 V2 V3 V4 AC4 V1 V1 V1 V2 V3 V1 Minimal vulnerability V2 Low vulnerability V3 Moderate vulnerability V4 High vulnerability V5 Severe vulnerability Page 285CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 C -9 Data Sources The County used data from a variety of credible sources to prepare the vulnerability assessment, determine the impact and adaptive capacity scores, and support conclusions. These resources include the following: • Scholarly Research: Much of the information came from an extensive body of scientific research that discusses how climate change may affect people and community assets. Much of this research is peer reviewed, which ensures greater accuracy, including studies published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Science, Geophysical Research Letters, and Climate Change journals. • Local Data: Regional government agencies have already prepared a number of plans and reports that support the vulnerability assessment or contain information relevant to the analysis. The County relied on several local plans and reports to prepare the vulnerability assessment, most notably the 2018 Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan and Contra Costa County Adapting to Rising Tides Project. • State and federal Data: The County supplemented the scholarly research and local data with data from State and federal agencies, including published reports and datasets. The County relied on information from several agencies, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the California Energy Commission, California Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES), the California Governor’s Office of Planning Resources (OPR), California Natural Resources Agency (CNRA), and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE). Population and Asset Consideration When selecting assets and populations to include in the vulnerability assessment, the County considered the following: • Sample pool: the sample pool is a subset of the overall group of people that are being measured or studied. For example, in a political poll among registered voters, the sample pool only includes registered voters, since unregistered voters do not fall into this category. This concept is important for the Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment because some of the demographics used in the Vulnerability Assessment have different sample pools. Most of the demographic data come from the US Census Bureau’s American Community Survey (ACS), and most of these data have a sample Page 286CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix C C -10 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 pool of either all residents or all households in the county. However, a few are different. This does not affect the outcome of the Vulnerability Assessment, but it creates slight differences in the number of people counted as part of each population. Some of these differences in the sample pool size include: • Data on persons with limited English proficiency only count people who are at least 14 years old instead of the total population, since young children generally are not proficient in any language. • Statistics that only count the noninstitutionalized population (e.g., people not in prisons or long-term care homes). • Data limitations: The vulnerability assessment pulls data from a wide array of sources. The project team took care to only use reliable, credible sources with the best available information. In some cases, the vulnerability assessment is constrained by the lack of available high-quality information, such as the number of undocumented persons or outdoor workers. • Related assets: Throughout the 65 populations and assets in the vulnerability assessment, there are a few that may appear redundant. For example, the vulnerability assessment looks at both public safety buildings (as a Buildings asset) and at public safety response (as a Key Community Service asset). To be as comprehensive as possible, the vulnerability assessment looks at physical structures separately from the services or benefits they provide. Similarly, this assessment looks at vulnerable people separately from the homes they live in or the industries where they are employed. This is because the effects of climate change on one type of population or asset can be different from the effects on related populations and assets. POPULATION VULNERABILITIES A number of factors can contribute to differences in climate change vulnerability across age, occupation, socio-economic status, and lifestyle conditions. The four primary overarching drivers of climate change vulnerability for populations are: • Physiology: Older individuals, children, individuals with disabilities, and those who are immunocompromised or with chronic health conditions may be more physically susceptible to the health effects of heat, wildfire smoke exposure, and human health hazards. These individuals may encounter barriers to evacuating in the event of a fire, flood, or other emergency. Page 287CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 C -11 • Access to financial resources: Low-income households, households in poverty, and those with precarious employment may struggle to acquire the financial resources necessary to prepare for and recover from the effects of climate change. • Exposure: Outdoor workers and those in low-resilience or precarious housing are more likely to be directly exposed to effects of climate change such as high heat, poor air quality, severe storms, and flooding. • Exclusion and social isolation: Individuals who are physically or socially isolated from the rest of the community, especially from community decision-making, may lack communication or transportation access, face language or cultural barriers, or may lack social connections. Excluded and isolated persons are often at risk because they are overlooked in community planning and are less able to access supportive resources. A given individual or community may experience more than one of these underlying contributors to climate change vulnerability. These underlying contributors are often structural in nature. This means that, in order for these vulnerabilities to be comprehensively addressed, community members and policymakers must look beyond the level of individual choice and actively investigate how federal, state, and local economic, health and safety, and housing policy can both exacerbate vulnerability and help resolve it. Some of Contra Costa County’s most vulnerable communities and the climate hazards to which they are most vulnerable are highlighted below: Children Under 10 Children are considered those that are 10 years of age or younger. According to the 2017 ACS, approximately 20,500 children live within the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County, or approximately 12 percent of the total population. High concentrations of children live in parts of Concord, Richmond, Pittsburg, Brentwood, and San Ramon. On average, children spend more time than adults outdoor, which leaves them more susceptible to allergens and pollution from poor air quality and wildfire.1 Poor air quality can cause asthma and lung diseases, in addition to exacerbating existing conditions that children may have.2 Infants and young children are physiologically less able to regulate their body temperature than adults, and children also may not recognize the need to hydrate and cool down when overheated. Schools or daycares where children spend a majority of their time could be damaged by a flood or landslide.3 Children could have to stay home, which may have greater economic challenges as parents would also have to Page 288CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix C C -12 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 stay home or find daycare options for their children. Children could also be swept away and drown from flood waters. Air Quality Wildfire Extreme Heat Shoreline Flooding Flooding Landslides and Debris Flows Households in Poverty Households with an income below the poverty line, which is $24,300 for a household of four people. Approximately 7,600 households in Contra Costa County live in poverty, or approximately 12 percent of total households for which poverty status can be determined. Within Contra Costa County, the areas with the highest concentrations of poverty occur in central Richmond, North Richmond and San Pablo, tracts of Concord and Martinez, and in Bay Point, Pittsburg, and Antioch. Air Quality Households in poverty are located within areas that currently have high levels of DPM, PM 2.5, and high ground-level ozone concentrations, which can worsen as air temperatures continue to increase.4 Households in poverty are likely to be more exposed to poor air quality due to lack of vegetation and trees and lower access to air conditioning.5, 6 Persons in these households may become more susceptible to respiratory and cardiovascular related illnesses.7 Extreme Heat Poverty is associated with greater vulnerability to heat in a number of ways. The long-standing association between low-income and poor health outcomes, as well as pre-existing health conditions among people in poverty, play a key role in vulnerability. Impoverished and low-income people who are uninsured may be less likely to seek medical help if they do become ill, may live in poorly insulated housing, and may also be less likely to use fans or air conditioning out of concern for high utility bills. During extreme heat days, temperatures in uninsulated homes may reach unhealthy temperatures. Households in poverty are located throughout the County, however those in central and eastern Contra Costa may face the greatest exposure from extreme heat. Page 289CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 C -13 Shoreline Flooding Flooding Households in poverty affected by coastal flooding are primarily located within North Richmond, Bay Point, and the tracts and islands in the Delta.8 Most of the households in poverty are located within or near 100-year flood zones.9 Flooding can damage homes, cause mildew and mold to grow, destroy infrastructure, and contaminate water supplies. Human Health Hazards Households in poverty may be living in conditions that increase the chances of catching a vector-borne illness, pathogens, or diseases. Households in poverty may be disproportionately affected higher rates of pollution and poor air quality. Landslides and Debris Flows Households in poverty may live in homes that are less structurally sound. Rodeo, Crockett, Bay Point, and Port Costa have a high concentration of households in poverty and also have high landslide susceptibility areas.10, 11 Landslides can damage the foundations of homes or destroy them completely.12 Sea Level Rise Vine Hill, Bay Point, and North Richmond households in poverty may be affected by sea level rise. Households in poverty may live in structures that are not waterproofed or built above the current 100-year flood elevation.13 These households are more likely to live in low-lying areas that are already subject to flooding, which may worsen as sea levels rise. Severe Storms Households in poverty may live in structures that are less resilient to severe weather.14 This increases the likelihood that high winds, thunderstorms, and heavy rain storms can damage their homes or cause mold or mildew growth. Persons living in these households can be physically harmed or experience a decrease in quality of life due to severe weather. Page 290CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix C C -14 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Wildfire Households in poverty may be subject to greater damage from wildfires, due to financial limitations or neighborhood characteristics that make it difficult to maintain defensible space in fire-prone areas. Some households in poverty are located within the wildland-urban interface, which is the most susceptible to damage from wildfires.15 Smoke and ash from wildfires can also harm households in poverty. Low-Income Households Households with an income of 80 percent or less of the median income, which is approximately $104,400 in Contra Costa County. Approximately 25,340 households or 41 percent of all households in the County are within the low-income category. Low-income households may have fewer financial resources to devote to preparing for and recovering from the effects of climate change. Many low-income households are located within or near a flood zone or dam inundation area, especially in north and east county.16 High concentrations of low-income households vulnerable to shoreline flooding occur in Rodeo, Crockett, the islands in the Delta, and Discovery Bay.17 Low-income households may live in structures that are not waterproofed or built above the current 100-year flood elevation.18 Coastal flooding can damage homes, cause mildew and mold to grow, and destroy infrastructure. Shoreline Flooding Flooding Outdoor Workers People who mostly work outdoor, including construction workers, agricultural workers, and people who work at outdoor recreation centers throughout Contra Costa County. Agricultural Pests and Diseases Outdoor workers may not be directly affected by agricultural pests and diseases. However, outdoor workers can be indirectly affected due to damage to crops and vineyards within the County. This can reduce work opportunities and create economic hardship for outdoor workers. Those working outside of agriculture may not be impacted by agricultural pests and diseases. Page 291CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 C -15 Air Quality Outdoor workers are directly exposed to poor air quality due to the nature of their occupation. Exposure to increased pesticides, ground level ozone concentrations, and particulate matter can lead to asthma, lung disease, cardiovascular health risks.19 If outdoor work is stopped due to poor air quality, outdoor workers may face economic hardship. Drought Drought can reduce water availability for agricultural operations, parks, and recreation areas, which can indirectly harm outdoor workers. Agricultural operations and Delta recreational opportunities can be halted, which may cause outdoor workers to lose jobs. Extreme Heat Outdoor workers in the agriculture, construction, building maintenance, landscaping and refinery operations fields are disproportionately impacted by extreme heat because they are required to be outside and risk heat exhaustion from exertion at jobs.20 Outdoor work is often physically intense, increasing the risk of individuals suffering heat-related medical complications. Outdoor work may also be halted during high temperatures, which can cause significant economic hardships. Persons Experiencing Homelessness Persons who do not have a permanent home, including those who live in their vehicles or temporary shelters. There are approximately 2,230 persons experiencing homelessness in Contra Costa County, according to the County’s 2018 homeless count, although most of these persons are likely in incorporated communities. Persons experiencing homelessness lack permanent, and often temporary, shelter, and therefore are more exposed to climate change impacts. Most of the homeless encampments within Contra Costa County occur along the coastline and near or within coastal flood areas.21 Coastal flooding and sea level rise can destroy homeless encampments and homeless facilities near the shoreline, creating additional hardships for persons experiencing homelessness. These events could become more frequent as sea levels rise and coastal storms intensify. Page 292CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix C C -16 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Persons experiencing homelessness, especially those in central and east county, face greater exposure to extreme heat because they lack access to permanent, and often temporary shelter. Dehydration is common among homeless persons, which makes health- related complications from extreme heat more likely. Homeless persons are more likely to suffer respiratory infections, which are exacerbated by extreme heat. Homeless persons on medication are also at greater risk from extreme heat, as some medication interferes with the body's ability to maintain a safe internal temperature during times of extreme temperatures. Homeless persons may face a significant decline in health due to direct exposure to poor air quality that can cause reduced lung function, pneumonia, asthma, and cardio-vascular-related morbidity.22 Homeless encampments located near Bay Point and other wildland-urban interface areas may also be in danger of being burned in the event of a wildfire.23 Air Quality Shoreline Flooding Extreme Heat Flooding Human Health Hazards Sea Level Rise Severe Weather Wildfire Persons Living on Single Access Roads Persons living in areas with a sole route in and out of the neighborhood or area. Several neighborhoods and communities in the Delta and in the hillside areas of central and western Contra Costa County are only accessible via one roadway. Flooding events, landslides, and wildfire can block, damage, and destroy roadways that are essential for persons living on single access roads. Bethel Island and Delta islands are accesible by single access roads, and many residential areas with single access roads are in the hilly areas in the center of the County. If roadways become impassable, persons living on single access roads can become isolated from the community and emergency services may not be able to reach these communities. Those that are not connected to urban water systems can also have water contamination.24 Page 293CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 C -17 Shoreline Flooding Flooding Landslides and Debris Flows Sea Level Rise Wildfire Persons with Chronic Illnesses People who have a long-term or permanent health condition that can create regular challenges in their day-to-day lives. These health problems include cancer, asthma, heart disease, and arthritis. Air Quality Persons with chronic illnesses may face increased health risks during poor air quality conditions. Poor air quality can exacerbate existing conditions such as asthma and respiratory illnesses, in addition to cause pneumonia.25 Shoreline Flooding Persons with chronic illnesses, such as cardiovascular diseases and asthma, that may experience coastal flooding are primarily located in Rodeo, Bay Point, and the islands and tracts in the Delta region on the County.26 Persons with chronic illnesses may live in homes that are not flood-proofed and can have mold growth or be damaged during coastal flooding. Extreme Heat Persons with chronic health problems, including cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease and diabetes, may face a significantly elevated risk of heat-related illness and death during extreme heat events.27 Extreme heat can exacerbate existing conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, respiratory ailments, and cerebrovascular diseases.28 29 30 Persons with chronic illnesses may also be on medication that can reduce the ability of the body to maintain a safe internal temperature.31 Human Health Hazards Persons with chronic illnesses may have weaker immune systems due to pre-existing conditions that make it more difficult to fight off new illnesses.32 Allergens and vector-borne illnesses can exacerbate existing illnesses, which can create difficulties in existing or new treatment. Page 294CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix C C -18 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Severe Storms Severe weather may cause power outages throughout the County, which can affect the life support systems that persons with chronic illnesses may rely on.33 Wildfire Wildfires can create smoke that travels 50-100 miles of the fire, which can exacerbate illnesses that persons with chronic illnesses have and cause asthma, acute bronchitis, chronic obstructive disease, pneumonia.34 Persons with Limited English Proficiency This group includes people who say they do not speak English “well” or “very well,” although the Census Bureau does not formally define what these terms mean. The 2017 ACS reports that approximately 10,060 people in Contra Costa County who are at least 5 years old have limited English proficiency, or approximately 6 percent of the total population. Other languages spoken in the County are primarily Spanish, Mandarin, Cantonese, Tagalog, and Persian. The highest proportion of households with limited English proficiency occur in Richmond, Concord, and San Pablo. Air Quality Persons with limited English proficiency are more likely to live in areas that have poor air quality, such as particulate matter and lower level ozone. Exposure to increased ground level ozone concentrations and particulate matter can lead to asthma, lung disease, and cardiovascular health risks.35 They may also not be aware of air quality warnings or other alerts. Flooding Severe Storms Persons with limited English proficiency are more likely to be in low- income areas, which are also more likely to be located in low-lying areas. Flooding from atmospheric rivers can damage homes and cause them to become uninhabitable or unhealthy to live in. Homes are also more likely to be damaged by high winds or hail events. Page 295CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 C -19 Human Health Hazards Persons with limited English proficiency may work outdoors or live in conditions that make them more susceptible to vector-borne illnesses or diseases. These conditions could exacerbate existing illnesses. Wildfire Persons with limited English proficiency may not have control over their homes or live in neighborhoods that make it difficult to maintain defensible space. These persons may live in the wildland-urban interface or may not have shelter from smoke conditions. Persons Without Access to Lifelines These are individuals who do not have access to basic technology or services, such as transportation or modern communication. These persons may live in areas where these lifelines are not available or feasible, may not be able to afford these lifelines, or for personal reason may choose not to have them. While data is not available on all persons without lifelines, the 2017 ACS reports that approximately 2,850 households in Contra Costa County do not have vehicles, or approximately 5 percent of all households. Persons without access to lifelines, such as cars and communication systems, may encounter barriers in preparing for and responding to emergency events. They may be unaware of an approaching emergency, may be unable to evacuate in a timely manner, and may become isolated if power services or transit systems are not working. Areas where large numbers of households do not have access to private vehicles may be important sites to strengthen public transit and also to provide mass transportation options to cooling centers during extreme heat events. Areas with clusters of households that do not have access to a vehicle occur in Concord, Richmond, Martinez, and San Pablo. Shoreline flooding Flooding Wildfire Page 296CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix C C -20 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Seniors Seniors are defied as persons 65 years of age or older. The 2017 ACS reports that there are approximately 26,110 seniors in Contra Costa County, or approximately 15 percent of the total population. Some areas within Contra Costa County, including central Contra Costa County, Bethel Island, the eastern part of Richmond, and several parts of Walnut Creek, have particularly high concentrations of seniors due to both institutional and residential retirement communities. People living in supportive senior housing, such as Rossmoor, may have access to protective resources, including staff paying attention to their well- being. Seniors’ physiology makes these individuals especially vulnerable to the health effects associated with poor air quality, extreme heat, and wildfire exposure. Meanwhile, physical limitations may make it harder for seniors to evacuate in the event of an emergency. Communities with high concentrations of seniors are primarily located on the hillsides in Contra Costa County, which are within high landslide susceptibility areas and are at elevated wildfire risk.36 Air quality Extreme Heat Landslides and Debris Flows Wildfire Seniors Living Alone This group includes senior citizens who are the only people living in their homes, although they may have one or more caretaker. According to the 2017 ACS, approximately 5,070 senior citizens live alone in Contra Costa County, or approximately 19 percent of seniors. Like other seniors, seniors living alone may be especially vulnerable to the health effects associated with high heat, poor air quality, and wildfire smoke. Seniors living alone generally face elevated overall vulnerability compared to other seniors because they may lack access to social connections and community support to assist in preparing for and responding to emergency events, evacuating, improving home resiliency, managing medical needs, and locating support services. These individuals may be especially isolated in the event of a power outage or road closure. Communities with high concentrations of Page 297CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 C -21 seniors are primarily located on the hillsides in Contra Costa, which are within high landslide susceptibility and wildfire risk areas.37 Air Quality Shoreline Flooding Extreme Heat Flooding Human Health Hazards Landslides and Debris Flows Severe Weather Wildfire Undocumented Persons This group includes people who do not have formal permission to live in the United States (they do not have citizenship, permanent residency, visas, or other similar status). There are no official counts of how many undocumented persons live in Contra Costa County, but a 2017 study estimated that the total number of undocumented persons in Contra Costa County (including those living in incorporated areas) was 77,500. Many undocumented persons have outdoor occupations or work in highly unregulated environments, which leaves them susceptible to harm from extreme heat conditions, exposure to poor air quality, and exposure to diease vectors such as ticks and mosquitoes. Outdoor work is often physically intense, increasing the risk of individuals suffering heat- related medical complications. Outdoor work may also be halted during high temperatures, which can cause significant economic hardships. Undocumented agricultural workers may face economic hardship if crops, vineyards, or rangeland are damaged by agricultural pests and diseases. Agricultural workers who are undocumented are more likely to be let go when farms experience economic hardship. Undocumented persons are most likely to fall in the households in poverty or low-income categories, and are more likely to live in low-lying areas that may be inundated during flooding or damaged by severe weather. Undocumented persons may live in structures that are not waterproofed or built above the current 100-year flood elevation.38 Flooding can damage homes, cause mildew and mold to grow, and destroy infrastructure. Page 298CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix C C -22 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Agricultural pests and diseases Air Quality Shoreline Flooding Extreme Heat Flooding Human Health Hazards Landslides and Debris Flows Severe Weather Wildfire INFRASTRUCTURE VULNERABILITIES Bridges Bridges may carry roads, rails, or trails. In Contra Costa County, these range from the large, state-owned bridges that carry interstate freeways, to locally owned bridges that carry rural roads and pedestrians over small creeks. There are over 400 bridges countywide, with approximately 80 owned by the Contra Costa County and approximately 160 owned by Caltrans. Damage to bridges could interrupt local and regional transportation patterns, disrupting economic activity and potentially emergency response. Bridge damage or failure could also lead to injury or loss of life. Shoreline Flooding According to the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan, 8 bridges are within the coastal flood zones within the County, including 4 on local roads, 3 on Interstate 680, and 1 on State Route 4 west bound.39 Major bridges include the Benecia-Martinez Bridge and the Carquinez Bridge, which are major transportation routes within the Bay Area. Additional bridges that provide key linkages are the Highway 160 bridge and Bethel Island bridge. Damage to these bridges would cause major congestion on other roadways and bridges in the County.40 Failure of the Bethel Island bridge could also leave residents and business owners stranded on the island. Page 299CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 C -23 Flooding There are 26 bridges within the 100-year flood zone and dam inundation areas.41 Some of these bridges are located in low-lying areas that could become covered in floodwater. Landslides and Debris Flows Forty bridges, including those on State Route 4 and Interstates 80 and 680 are within the moderate to very high landslide areas.42 Landslides can cause these bridges to become unstable and fail. Severe Storms Bridges may be damaged or periodically closed due to severe weather.43 Electricity Transmission and Distribution Lines Electrical transmission and distribution lines are power lines that carry high-voltage electricity long distances between power plants and electricity customers. There are transmission lines located throughout the county, primarily owned by Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E). Other transmission lines in eastern Contra Costa County are owned by the Western Area Power Administration (WAPA) and the Transmission Agency of Northern California.44 Extreme Heat Extreme heat conditions may most likely affect electricity transmission and distribution lines in east and central Contra Costa, as temperatures in those areas are projected to increase substantially on extreme heat days. Extreme heat can cause an increase in air conditioning use, which can stress and overload the grid, subsequently causing power outages and damage to the lines. Landslides and Debris Flows Many electrical transmission lines pass over hills and mountains in east and west Contra Costa and are also within high landslide potential areas.45 Landslides can damage or destroy the power lines and towers that support them. These power lines carry electricity to other regions in the Bay Area and could cause widespread power outages if multiple lines are disrupted at the same time. Page 300CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix C C -24 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Severe Storms Electricity transmission and distribution lines can be damaged or destroyed by high velocity winds. This can cause secondary impacts such as power outages, that would impact County residents and businesses. Wildfire Several electrical transmission and distribution lines go through mountainous areas that are within high fire hazard severity zones. Electrical transmission lines and the poles that support them can be damaged or destroyed by the flames and high temperatures created by wildfires. This can cause residents and businesses within the County to lose power if electricity lines fail. This can cause economic hardship and potential public safety concerns. Flood Control Infrastructure Flood control infrastructure includes levees, dikes, and drainage channels, and other infrastructure meant to help prevent the creeks, Delta, and other water bodies throughout Contra Costa County from overflowing their banks and causing floods. The Contra Costa County Flood Control District is the agency responsible for local flood control projects. Many of the levees and drainage facilities in the Delta region of the county are privately owned and operated. Levees near North Richmond, Vine Hill, and the Delta could all be damaged and/or overtopped due to the increase in tidal levels from a coastal storm. Coastal storms can damage or destroy levees and other flood-control infrastructure, making them unable to function as intended or needed. Sea level rise may exacerbate these effects. Shoreline Flooding Sea Level Rise Major Roads and Highways Major roads and highways within Contra Costa County include Interstates 80, 680, and 580; State Routes 4, 24, and 123; and local roads such as Richmond Parkway, San Pablo Avenue, San Pablo Dam Road, Ygnacio Valley Road and Kirker Pass, Vasco Road, Byron Highway, Marsh Creek Road, and Morgan Territory Road. Page 301CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 C -25 Shoreline Flooding Flooding Sea Level Rise Major regional roadways, including Interstates 680 and 80, as well as State Route 4 are within flooding zones. Interstates 680 and 80 and State Route 160 are within sea level rise inundation areas. Flooding to these roadways, in addition to major local roadways could cause major disruptions to local and regional transportation, transit, and commuters.46 Large sections of the economy could face economic hardship if commuters in the Bay Area are unable to reach their jobs and communities are isolated because of flooding. Landslides and Debris Flows Major roadways, such as Interstate 80 and 680, and State Routes 4 and 24 are within high landslide susceptibility areas 47. These roadways could be damaged and become impassable, including the fourth bore of the Caldecott Tunnel. This could substantially disrupt regional transportation and connections between Contra Costa County and the rest of the Bay Area. Wildfire State Route 4, 24, and Interstate 80 go through moderate to very high fire hazard zones within Contra Costa 48. Wildfires can damage roadways and cause road closures, which can cause major disruption to commute and traffic patterns in the Bay Area. Closure of Highway 4 and 24 may prevent those living in eastern and central Contra Costa from traveling to west Contra Costa County. Railroads and BART There are three standard rail lines that run through Contra Costa County. The rail lines are operated by Union Pacific, Burlington Northern Santa Fe, and Richmond Pacific Railroad Corporation that run along the western, northern, and eastern boundaries on the county along Interstate 80, State Route 4, and Byron Highway.49 Each rail line is used for freight trains, and the Capitol Corridor commuter train runs along the Union Pacific railway. The Bay Area Rapid Transit District (BART) operates its own separate rail lines which are used exclusively for public transit. There are two BART rain lines in Contra Costa County, one Page 302CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix C C -26 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 beginning in Richmond and heading south toward Berkeley, and the second in the central part of the county extending from Orinda to Antioch. Shoreline Flooding Flooding Sea Level Rise Amtrak, freight lines, and BART are within the flood areas within coastal and northern of Contra Costa.50 Flooding can damage the track bed and ballast material, and the entire system could shut down. Some of these rail lines, including the Martinez and Antioch Amtrak stations, rail lines along Bay Point, Montalvin Manor, Rodeo, Port Costa serve as first line of defense to coastal flooding for communities.51 Damage to the rail and BART lines could mean disruptions to regional transit networks that are essential for economic activity.52 Landslides and Debris Flows The North Concord/Martinez BART station, Martinez Amtrak station, Pittsburg/Bay Point BART station, and Lafayette BART station, in addition to the adjacent rail lines are within moderate to high landslide susceptibility zones.53 Landslides could damage the tracks or destroy a station, which could prevent rail cars from passing through the station in either direction. This could limit transit opportunities within east and west county. Single Access Roads These are roadways that are one of few, or the only, ways in and out of some communities of neighborhoods. The single or limited number of entry and exit points does not make the road itself more vulnerable than other roads, but the loss of these roadways can effectively cut off large number of people from the rest of Contra Costa County. Single access roadways are primarily located in Bay shoreline and Delta fronting neighborhoods, as well as communities located on the San Pablo Ridge, Canyon, and Briones Hills. Page 303CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 C -27 Single access roads can be damaged or blocked by falling trees, flooding, landslides, and wildfire. Single access roads are primarily located in hillside community that are also within high or very high fire hazard severity zones.54 Within these forested areas, trees can be damaged by redwood bark beetle or sudden oak death. These diseases can weaken trees can cause them to fall on and damage roadways. Single access roads in Bay Point, Bethel Island, and in the Delta may be affected by coastal flooding; single access roads throughout the County are located within the 100 and 500 year floodplain. Single access roads can become inundated and be damaged by a flood event, especially those that rely on bridges that cross through the Delta. This can leave residents and business owners stranded and isolated during a flood. Damage to or blockage of a single access road can leave residents stranded during an emergency and can inconvenience residents and businesses that rely on access to these roads. Agricultural pests and diseases Shoreline Flooding Flooding Landslides and Debris Flows Wildfire Wastewater Treatment Plants These facilities treat wastewater so it can be safely discharged into the environment. There are 10 wastewater treatment plants in the county, which treat wastewater for people living in cities and unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County.55 Failure of these treatment plants could cause sewer systems to backup and potentially contaminate streams and water systems with raw sewage. Shoreline Flooding Three wastewater treatment plants (WWTP): Rodeo sewage treatment plant, West Contra Costa Wastewater, and Mt View Sanitary District are within low lying or coastal flooding areas.56 Coastal flooding can exacerbate wet weather flows into the treatment plants with higher levels of stormwater and rising sea levels, which can prevent the system from functioning properly.57 Pumps and control panels that are not waterproofed or salt-resistant could also fail. Page 304CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix C C -28 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Flooding Two WWTPs are within the 100 & 500 year floodplain, one WWTP is within dam inundation zone, including the West Contra Costa and Pinole Hercules plants.58 Sea Level Rise Three wastewater treatment plants: Rodeo sewage treatment plant, West Contra Costa Wastewater, and Mt View Sanitary District are within low lying areas along the shoreline.59 Inundation due to sea level rise can exacerbate wet weather flows into the treatment plants with higher levels of stormwater and rising sea levels, which can prevent the system from functioning properly.60 Pumps and control panels that are not waterproofed or salt-resistant could also fail. Water and Wastewater Infrastructure These facilities convey water from water treatment plants for public use and convey wastewater to wastewater treatment plants through sewer systems. This includes piping, pump stations, wells, and septic systems. The Mokelumne Aqueduct could be exposed to coastal flooding if the Delta levees fail.61 Contra Costa Canal and the Clifton Court Forebay are also within the coastal flooding area. If the levees fail during a coastal flooding events, these pieces of infrastructure would also fail, and fresh water would become contaminated with salt water, reducing the amount of suitable drinking water and agricultural water. This could halt economic activities in Contra Costa and the greater California area. These hazards could be exacerbated by sea level rise. Shoreline Flooding Flooding Sea Level Rise Page 305CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 C -29 BUILDING VULNERABILITIES Industrial Buildings These are buildings that contain industrial and manufacturing uses and businesses. There are approximately 270 industrial buildings in the unincorporated area of Contra Costa County. Shoreline Flooding Approximately 61 industrial buildings in Contra Costa County are within coastal flooding areas.62 Coastal flooding can cause damage to industrial structures and increase the potential for hazardous materials release that would contaminate soil, water, and air in surrounding areas.63 Industrial structures that are currently outside of the 100-year flood zone are also unlikely to be waterproofed or flood resistant.64 Flooding There are 68 industrial buildings within the 500-year floodplain and 99 industrial buildings within a dam inundation area 65. This includes 5 hazardous materials facilities that could potentially release toxic substances into the ground, air, and water if damaged.66 Landslides and Debris Flow There are 34 industrial structures within landslide-prone areas.67 Landslides can disturb holding tanks or damage industrial buildings, and cause chemicals to be released into the air, water, or ground in the surrounding areas. Sea Level Rise Approximately 44 industrial buildings in Contra Costa County are within sea level rise inundation areas.68, 69 Sea level rise can cause damage to industrial structures over time and increase the potential for hazardous materials release that would contaminate soil, water, and air in surrounding areas due to high mean high tide levels.70 Industrial structures that are currently outside of the 100-year flood zone are also unlikely to be waterproofed or flood resistant.71 Wildfire There are 24 industrial buildings within the fire hazard zone.72 Wildfires can damage holding tanks or manufacturing centers that contain harmful chemicals. Damage to these facilities can release toxic materials into the air, water, and soil of the surrounding communities. Page 306CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix C C -30 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 ECONOMIC DRIVER VULNERABILITIES Agriculture This category includes field crops (such as tomatoes, sweet corn, and other vegetables), fruit and nut orchards, vineyards, and plant nurseries. These agricultural operations are primarily location in eastern Contra Costa County, between Mt. Diablo State Park and the Delta. In 2017, farms and orchards produced approximately $95 million in agricultural products.73 Agricultural Pests and Diseases Agriculture within Contra Costa County can be affected by fungal pathogens and invasive disease vectors, which could affect agriculture as an economic asset.74 Pests and diseases can affect the quality or viability of crops and vineyards that are within the county. Impacts could become chronic as conditions continue to change and warmer temperatures persist. Shoreline Flooding Agricultural land in the eastern and Delta portions of the County are within the coastal flood zone. Coastal flooding can inundate farmland and damage or destroy crops. Damage to the fresh water canals and aqueducts could also severely harm the agriculture industry. Eastern Contra Costa County may face significant economic hardship if agriculture is not viable. Drought Agriculture may be directly harmed from drought conditions due to an increase in soil salinity, topsoil erosion, and reduced water supply.75 This can limit crop production and in turn result in a loss of income for agriculture owners. The economy in eastern Contra Costa can be especially harmed by limited water for agricultural production. Extreme Heat Extreme heat conditions can damage crops or reduce yield, which can create economic hardships in eastern Contra Costa. High heat conditions can also make crops more difficult to manage, and can lead to die off of crops. Wine grapes are expected to experience a decline in fruit quality due to extreme heat.76 Page 307CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 C -31 Flooding Agriculture within Contra Costa is located in low-lying areas that are in both the floodable areas and dam inundation areas. Flooding can cause significant damage to crop production because they can damage plants, wash away topsoil nutrients, and degrade essential microbial activity. This can harm plants and reduce agricultural productivity, subsequently harming the agricultural economy in east Contra Costa.77 Sea Level Rise Agricultural land in the eastern and Delta portions of the County are within the sea level rise inundation area. Sea level rise can inundate farmland creating higher salinity water and soils. Water supplies, including groundwater, can also experience salt water intrusion, which can be damaging to crops that do not grow in high salt conditions. Damage to the fresh water canals and aqueducts could also severly harm the agriculture industry. Eastern Contra Costa County may face significant economic hardship if agriculture is not viable. Severe Storms High winds, hail, and thunderstorms can decimate agricultural operations. Crops can be flattened by high velocity winds and food crops can be damaged by hail.78 This can severely damage the agricultural economy in east Contra Costa and bring economic hardship to farm owners in that area. Wildfire Smoke and ash can damage crops, farms, and agricultural fields in Contra Costa County. While many of the agricultural areas are outside of fire hazard zones, smoke and ash can change crops such as wine grapes and change nutrients in the soil.79 This may cause plants to die or not produce as many useable fruits. This can cause major economic hardship for farmers. Industrial and Manufacturing Centers (including oil refineries) Industrial and manufacturing centers include facilities that have light and heavy industrial and manufacturing businesses. In the unincorporated areas in Contra Costa County, these centers are located in North Richmond, Rodeo, Crockett, Bay Point, Pacheco, and Clyde. Oil refineries are included in this category, as they are industrial facilities where crude oil is Page 308CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix C C -32 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 processed into gasoline and industrial byproducts for a variety of retail and wholesale markets. There are three of these facilities in the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County, which are in Rodeo, Pacheco, and Martinez (straddling the City/County boundaries). Shoreline Flooding Flooding Sea Level Rise The majority of these centers are located within the coastal flood hazard areas along the bayfront and Delta in western and northern Contra Costa County, with additional centers located within the flood hazard zones on the northern and western edges of the county. Industrial and manufacturing centers can be damaged by flooding, which could result in lost productivity, jobs, and income sources for employees. Coastal flooding hazards could be exacerbated by sea level rise. Landslides and Debris Flows Industrial and manufacturing centers, including oil refineries, are located within the landslide prone areas on the northern and western edges of Contra Costa.80 Landslides can damage these facilities and cause hazardous material release that can harms the oil refining industry and also the surrounding communities. Impacts may become chronic if landslides increase. Wildfire Few industrial and manufacturing centers are located within fire hazard severity zones. However, oils refineries and holding tanks can be damaged by wildfires, which can cause hazardous materials to be released into the surrounding air, water, and soil. This can negatively impact both economic and public health. Page 309CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 C -33 Rangeland Rangeland are lands where many livestock species, including cattle, are raised. Rangeland is primarily located in eastern Contra Costa County. In 2017, rangeland produced approximately $26 million in livestock products. 81 Drought Rangeland is primarily located on grassland habitats, which can lose topsoil and productivity due to the drier conditions created by droughts.82 This can reduce the available foraging habitat for livestock and cause economic hardship for rangeland owners. Extreme Heat Extreme heat is very harmful to livestock animals, especially cattle. Temperatures above 100 degrees can create heat stress, increase the risk of infection, reduce milk production and fertility, and may lead to death of animals. Animals that are already stressed by existing illnesses are at the highest risk. Flooding Rangeland located on Bethel Island and the Delta areas are within the 100-year floodplain and dam inundation areas. Flood waters can damage important rangeland infrastructure and the natural grassland that feeds to cattle and livestock 83. This can harm the local economy in east County. Regional Parks Regional parks within Contra Costa County are scattered throughout the county. East Bay Regional Park District operates over 113,000 acres of regional parkland in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties.84 Sea Level Rise Regional shorelines and parks on the Bay/Delta could be permanently inundated by sea level rise. This could make the regional parks unusable and the parks may not be able to meet the demands of the public. Wildfire Many regional parks within the County are located within high or very high fire hazard severity zones.85 Wildfires can destroy park facilities, damage trails and walking paths, and damage scenic views and vistas within these parks. This may reduce the number of visitors to the parks, as they may not be as desirable to visit. Page 310CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix C C -34 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 The Delta The Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta (Delta) spans from Pittsburg in the west, Locke in the east, Sacramento to the North, and Tracy to the south. The Delta primarily encompasses the northern and easternmost borders of Contra Costa County and provides opportunities for boating, fishing, transportation, and a water source for the County. Air Quality The Delta supports fishing, water recreation, and park activities that could be curtailed due to poor air quality.86 Those who rely on the Delta could have a periodic loss of economic activity as long as poor air quality curtails outdoor and water recreation. Shoreline Flooding The Delta, including marinas, harbors, farmland, and recreational opportunities may be continuously flooded and inundated by coastal storms. This can significantly reduce the economic viability of the Delta due to damage to ecosystems, recreation facilities such as marinas and harbors, and farmland on the islands and tracts within the Delta. Drought Reduced streamflow and water quality can decrease both commercial fishing, agricultural production, and recreational opportunities in the Delta.87 Certain fish species may die off if water conditions change and high salinity water may not be able to be used for agricultural production.88 Extreme Heat The Delta supports fishing, water recreation, and park activities that could be curtailed due to extreme heat.89 Extreme heat may also alter the water quality, cause water temperatures to rise, and cause fish die off and algae growth. Sea Level Rise The Delta, including marinas, harbors, farmland, and recreational opportunities may be continuously flooded and inundated by sea level rise. This can significantly reduce the economic viability of the Delta due to damage to ecosystems, recreation facilities such as marinas and harbors, and farmland on the islands and tracts within the Delta. Salt water may also travel farther into the Delta, disrupting water quality and fish/wildlife populations. Page 311CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 C -35 Severe Storms Severe weather can damage harbors, marinas, outdoor recreation centers within the Delta, which can harm both the fishery and recreation based economies in the Delta. Severe storms can also damage bridges that connect islands and tracks within the Delta, which can isolate them from other areas in the region. ECOSYSTEM AND NATURAL RESOURCE VULNERABILITIES Aquatic Aquatic habitat includes streams, reservoirs, ponds, and sloughs or channels. This ecosystem includes the Delta and shoreline areas that are submerged by water. In Contra Costa County, the three large reservoirs include San Pablo Reservoir, Briones Reservoir, and Los Vaqueros Reservoir. Aquatic wildlife species include various duck species, California red-legged frog, western pond turtle, and juvenile and spawning adult Chinook salmon. 90 Drought Drought can cause lower water levels and water quality, in addition to raising water temperatures in aquatic habitats. These conditions can cause algal blooms in Delta areas, harm salmonid populations, and cause system wide failures.91, 92 Lower dissolved oxygen levels and increased algae growth can also harm a variety of aquatic species.93 Extreme Heat Extreme heat events can cause water temperatures in aquatic habitats to rise, which can alter water quality and other water characteristics. Native fish species may have a more difficult time surviving in warmer waters and non-native species may out compete native species.94 Landslides and Debris Flows Aquatic habitat within landslide prone areas includes lakes and streams, which are in the central and western parts of the county. Landslides can cause streams to be blocked and significantly affect fish and wildlife habitat through additional debris in aquatic systems.95 Page 312CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix C C -36 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Sea Level Rise Sea level rise may push salt water into the Delta aquatic system, which may degrade the water quality and harm fish and other aquatic organisms.96 Aquatic habitats may also be harmed if industrial/oil facilities are inundated, as hazardous materials could be released into the soils and water.97 Riparian Woodland and Shrub Riparian woodland and shrub ecosystems consist of Valley foothill riparian, undetermined shrub, and riverine habitat. These areas are scattered throughout Contra Costa County and have wildlife species such as gray fox, striped skunk, broad-handed mole, mule deer, dusky-footed woodrat, yellow warbler, northern flicker, white tailed kite, and Cooper’s hawk. 98 Drought Drought conditions can cause smaller streams to run dry, which can subsequently harm the plants and animal habitat within the ecosystem. Trees may not have adequate water during drought periods, which can lead to pests and diseases destroying important habitat for the Gray fox, Cooper's hawk, and mule deer.99 Soil erosion can also occur on the banks of streams.100 Severe Storms Severe storms can cause trees to fall in riparian ecosystems, which can disrupt the flow of water through the systems and impact aquatic wildlife in the streams. Wildfire Riparian ecosystems can be harmed by wildfires due to loss of canopy and changes in soil structure, erosion, and shifts in specific composition due to changes in habitat structure.101 Impacts may become chronic as wildfire frequency increases. Wetland Wetland ecosystems include permanent wetland, seasonal wetland, fresh emergent wetland, alkali wetland, and marsh. These areas are located adjacent to the San Francisco Bay and Delta. Wildlife in these ecosystems includes Great blue heron, great egret, wood duck, green-winged teal, mallard, California red-legged frog, western pond turtle, garter Page 313CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 C -37 snakes, western spadefoot toad, western toad, California tiger salamander, tri-colored blackbird, and vernal pool fairy shrimp. 102 Shoreline Flooding Coastal flooding and rising sea levels may inundate most of the wetland and tidal marshes by 2070.103 The wildlife habitat, recreation, and flood protection that these ecosystems provide may not be able to be sustained.104 Drought Wetlands can be directly affect by reduced water quantity and quality due to drought conditions.105 Drought can contribute to algal blooms, low streamflow, degraded water quality, higher temperatures, and increased erosion in both Delta and inland wetland habitats.106 This can in turn harm wildlife such as the California red-legged frog and western pond turtle that depend on these ecosystems.107 Extreme Heat Warmer waters may change wetland habitats so that native species can no longer survive.108 Warmer temperatures may also cause harmful algal growth that can harm both plant and wildlife species. Sea Level Rise Rising sea levels may inundate most of the wetland and tidal marshes by 2070.109 The wildlife habitat, recreation, and flood protection that these ecosystems provide may not be able to be sustained.110 Woodland Woodland ecosystems include oak savannah, oak woodland, and mixed evergreen forest. These ecosystems are primarily located on the hillsides and mountainous regions of western and central Contra Costa County. Wildlife in these ecosystems include deer mouse, western gray squirrel, coyote, red-tailed hawk, barn owl, great horned owl, and acorn woodpecker. 111 Page 314CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix C C -38 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Agricultural Pests and Diseases Both evergreen and oak woodlands in the county can be damaged by forestry pests and diseases such as sudden oak death and redwood bark beetles. This can decimate the ecosystems and wildlife such as coyote, gray fox, barn owl, red-tailed hawk, and Copper's hawk that depend on these ecosystem for habitat and foraging.112 Fog Redwoods, which are a common species in woodland habitats in western Contra Costa, depend on the coastal fog in the summer months. Redwoods can get up to one third of their water from fog in the summer.113 The absence of coastal fog may cause higher evapotranspiration rates and increase the demand for water in woodland ecosystems during the drier summer months. Wildfire Fire sensitivity varies by species, but most species have an elevated risk of damage. Large fires can cause widespread devastation throughout woodland areas in Contra Costa County, particularly if trees have been weakened or killed by drought, extreme heat, and/or pests or infestation.114 KEY COMMUNITY SERVICES VULNERABILITIES Energy Delivery Energy delivery services in Contra Costa County include electricity and natural gas delivered through high-capacity utility lines and pipelines. In more rural areas of Contra Costa County, propane may be delivered via truck. Energy is needed for vital functions such as space heating, telecommunications, as well as entertainment and comfort. Major energy providers are MCE and PG&E. Extreme Heat Extreme heat can regularly cause power outages due to a combination of mechanical failure of electrical grid equipment, heat damage to the wires themselves, and high demand for electricity as a result of cooling equipment, all of which causes stress on the grid. As extreme heat events become more frequent and intense, disruptions in service are likely to become more frequent. The US Department of Energy estimates that a 9-degree increase in temperature reduces the capacity of power lines by 7 to 8 percent, and the capacity of electrical substations by 2 to 4 percent.115 Page 315CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 C -39 Landslides and Debris Flows Landslides can damage or destroy transmission lines and substations that are located in the hillside areas of the County. This could cause major disruptions in the power grid and could cause widespread power outages. Power outages can harm vulnerable populations and businesses.116 Severe Storms Energy delivery could be disrupted by severe weather if wind, hail, or thunderstorms cause the electrical grid to not function properly. If multiple sections or element of the system fail (substations, power plants, electricity lines) county residents and businesses could be without power for hours, days, or weeks depending on severity. Wildfire Wildfires can damage or destroy energy delivery infrastructure, which can cause power outages that can last for days or weeks depending on the severity of the event. This can directly harm the economy, government operations, public safety, and hinder wildfire recovery efforts. Public Transit Access Public transit within Contra Costa County is provided by County Connection, WestCAT, Tri Delta Transit, and AC Transit. Additional public transit that provides access to other regional locations includes BART and Amtrak. Shoreline Flooding Flooding Public transit routes are at risk for disruption to the extent they rely on vulnerable roads and bridges. Disruption of these services would be detrimental to those who do not own or operate vehicles.117 Residents may not be able to get essential goods and services, and commuters may be unable to go to work without public transit access. For rail and BART, if part of the lines is not functioning, then that could affect transit access on other parts of the line. Page 316CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix C C -40 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Landslides and Debris Flows Landslides can block roadways, tunnels, and rail lines, which could substantially disrupt access to public transit in north, central, and west Contra Costa. These areas rely on public transit more and when disrupted, public transit may not be able to meet the needs of the community. Water and Wastewater These services involve treating and transporting water to be used by customers and transporting and treating wastewater so it can be safely released into the environment. Water and wastewater services are provided by several agencies and small private organizations throughout Contra Costa County and are critical to ensuring public and environmental health. Major water providers are East Bay Municipal Utilities District and Contra Costa Water District. Additional service districts within the county are Byron Sanitary District, Castle Rock County Water District, Central Contra Costa Sanitary District, County Sanitation District 6, Crockett Community Services District, Delta Diablo Sanitation District, Diablo Community Services District, Diablo Water District, Dublin-San Ramon Services District, Ironhouse Sanitary District, Mt. View Sanitary District, Rodeo Sanitary District, Stege Sanitary District, Town of Discovery Bay Community Services District, and West County Wastewater District. Shoreline Flooding Flooding Sea Level Rise Water and wastewater services can be disrupted from flooding if the wastewater treatment plants are not functioning properly. Flooding can exacerbate wet weather flows into the treatment plants with higher levels of stormwater and rising sea levels, which can prevent the system from functioning properly.118 Failure of these treatment plants could cause sewer systems to back up and potentially contaminate streams and water systems with raw sewage. Major points in the water delivery system could also be disrupted. Sea level rise may exacerbate these hazards. Page 317CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 C -41 Landslides and Debris Flows Water and wastewater services could be disrupted if the pipelines were to be damaged or destroyed from a landslide. This could cause both water and wastewater systems to not function properly. Wildfire Wildfires in the County could impact the reservoir water sources.119 Water quality can be degraded due to ash content or fire retardants that make their way into surface water storage. This may reduce the overall quantity of water that the water districts in the county have to supply agricultural, commercial, and residential demands. Page 318CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix C C -42 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 Endnotes 1 Hall, Alex, Neil Berg, Katharine Reich. (University of California, Los Angeles). 2018. Los Angeles Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: SUM-CCCA4-2018-007. 2 Ackerly, David, Andrew Jones, Mark Stacey, Bruce Riordan. (University of California, Berkeley). 2018. San Francisco Bay Area Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: CCCA4-SUM-2018-005. 3 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 4 California Office of Environmental Health Hazards Assessment. CalEnviroScreen 4.0. https://oehha.ca.gov/calenviroscreen/report/calenviroscreen-40 5 Reid, Colleen E., Marie S. O’Neill, Carina J. Gronlund, Shannon J. Brines, Daniel G. Brown, Ana V. Diez-Roux, and Joel Schwartz. 2009a. “Mapping Community Determinants of Heat Vulnerability.” Environmental Health Perspectives 117 (11): 1730–36. 6 Gould, Solange, Dervin, Kathy. 2012. Climate Action for Health: Integrating Public Health into Climate Action Planning. California Department of Public Health. 7 Ackerly, David, Andrew Jones, Mark Stacey, Bruce Riordan. (University of California, Berkeley). 2018. San Francisco Bay Area Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: CCCA4-SUM-2018-005. 8 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 9 Envision Contra Costa. “Contra Costa County Briefing Book.” https://cocogis.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapSeries/index.html?appid=fc2415bbdacb409baf0f19fe802a81f3. 10 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 11 California Office of Environmental Health Hazards Assessment. CalEnviroScreen 4.0. https://oehha.ca.gov/calenviroscreen/report/calenviroscreen-40 12 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 13 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 14 Roos, Michelle. (E4 Strategic Solutions). 2018. Climate Justice Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: SUM-CCCA4-2018-012. 15 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 16 Envision Contra Costa. “Contra Costa County Briefing Book.” https://cocogis.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapSeries/index.html?appid=fc2415bbdacb409baf0f19fe802a81f3 17 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 18 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 19 Ackerly, David, Andrew Jones, Mark Stacey, Bruce Riordan. (University of California, Berkeley). 2018. San Francisco Bay Area Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: CCCA4-SUM-2018-005. Page 319CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 C -43 20 Contra Costa Health Services (CCHS). 2015. Climate Change Vulnerability in Contra Costa County: A Focus on Heat. 21 Contra Costa County Health Housing & Homeless. 2018. “2018 Point in Time Count.” https://cchealth.org/h3/coc/pdf/PIT-report-2018.pdf 22 Hall, Alex, Neil Berg, Katharine Reich. (University of California, Los Angeles). 2018. Los Angeles Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: SUM-CCCA4-2018-007. 23 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 24 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 25 Hall, Alex, Neil Berg, Katharine Reich. (University of California, Los Angeles). 2018. Los Angeles Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: SUM-CCCA4-2018-007. 26 California Office of Environmental Health Hazards Assessment. CalEnviroScreen 4.0. https://oehha.ca.gov/calenviroscreen/report/calenviroscreen-40 27 Contra Costa Health Services (CCHS). 2015. Climate Change Vulnerability in Contra Costa County: A Focus on Heat. 28 Zanobetti, A., O’Neill, M. S., Gronlund, C. J., et al. 2011. Summer temperature variability and long-term survival among elderly people with chronic disease. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 109(17). Pp. 6608-6613. 29 Luber, G., Knowlton, K., Balbus, J., et al. 2014. Climate Change Impacts in the United States: Chapter 9 – Human Health. 30 US Climate Resilience Toolkit. 2016. Extreme Heat-NIHHIS. https://toolkit.climate.gov/topics/human- health/extreme-heat. 31 CDC (Centers for Disease Control). 2011. "Heat and People with Chronic Medical Conditions". https://www.cdc.gov/extremeheat/medical.html. 32 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 33 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 34 Hall, Alex, Neil Berg, Katharine Reich. (University of California, Los Angeles). 2018. Los Angeles Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: SUM-CCCA4-2018-007. 35 Ackerly, David, Andrew Jones, Mark Stacey, Bruce Riordan. (University of California, Berkeley). 2018. San Francisco Bay Area Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment.Publication number: CCCA4-SUM-2018-005. 36 Envision Contra Costa. “Contra Costa County Briefing Book.” https://cocogis.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapSeries/index.html?appid=fc2415bbdacb409baf0f19fe802a81f3. 37 Envision Contra Costa. “Contra Costa County Briefing Book.” https://cocogis.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapSeries/index.html?appid=fc2415bbdacb409baf0f19fe802a81f3. 38 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 39 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 40 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 41 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 42 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 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Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 54 Cal Fire. 2007. “Contra Costa County Fire Hazard Severity Zones in SRA.” https://osfm.fire.ca.gov/media/6662/fhszs_map7.pdf 55 California Office of Emergency Services. 2019. California Wastewater Treatment Facilities. https://www.arcgis.com/home/item.html?id=dfedf186401240bc8d382e80188ac512 56 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 57 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 58 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 59 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 60 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 61 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. 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Bay Area Regional Reliability Drought Contingency Plan. 76 Kerr, A., Dialesandro, J., Steenwerth, K., Lopez-Brody, N., Elias, E. 2018. “Vulnerability of California specialty crops to projected mid-century temperature changes.” Climatic Change 148: 419-436. https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/s10584-017-2011-3.pdf 77 Soil Science Society of America. n.d. Farming after the Flood. https://www.soils.org/files/science- policy/caucus/briefings/farming-after-flood.pdf. 78 Motha, R. 2011. “The Impact of Extreme Weather Events on Agriculture in the United States.” Challenges and Opportunities in Agrometerology. https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-642-19360-6_30 79 Kohls, Jessica. 2015. HOW DOES WILDFIRE ASH AND SMOKE IMPACT CROPS?. https://dutchopeners.com/how- does-wildfire-ash-and-smoke-impact-crops/. 80 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 81 Contra Costa County. 2018. 2017 Contra Costa County Agricultural Crop Report & 2019 Calendar. 82 US Dept. of Interior, Bureau of Reclamation. 2017. Bay Area Regional Reliability Drought Contingency Plan. 83 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 84 East Bay Regional Park District. 2013. “Master Plan 2013.” https://www.ebparks.org/sites/default/files/master_plan_2013_final.pdf 85 Cal Fire. 2007. “Contra Costa County Fire Hazard Severity Zones in SRA.” https://osfm.fire.ca.gov/media/6662/fhszs_map7.pdf 86 Delta Protection Commission (DPC). 2015. 2015 Inventory of Recreation Facilities in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. 87 US Dept. of Interior, Bureau of Reclamation. 2017. Bay Area Regional Reliability Drought Contingency Plan. 88 US Dept. of Interior, Bureau of Reclamation. 2017. Bay Area Regional Reliability Drought Contingency Plan. 89 Delta Protection Commission (DPC). 2015. 2015 Inventory of Recreation Facilities in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. 90 Jones & Stokes. 2006. East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservation Plan and Natural Community Conservation Plan. http://www.co.contra-costa.ca.us/depart/cd/water/HCP/archive/final-hcp-rev/pdfs/ch03setting.pdf 91 US Dept. of Interior, Bureau of Reclamation. 2017. Bay Area Regional Reliability Drought Contingency Plan. 92 Ackerly, David, Andrew Jones, Mark Stacey, Bruce Riordan. (University of California, Berkeley). 2018. San Francisco Bay Area Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: CCCA4-SUM-2018-005. Page 322CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Appendix C C -46 Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 93 US Dept. of Interior, Bureau of Reclamation. 2017. Bay Area Regional Reliability Drought Contingency Plan. 94 Roos, Michelle. (E4 Strategic Solutions). 2018. Climate Justice Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: SUM-CCCA4-2018-012. 95 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements 96 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 97 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 98 Jones & Stokes. 2006. East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservation Plan and Natural Community Conservation Plan. http://www.co.contra-costa.ca.us/depart/cd/water/HCP/archive/final-hcp-rev/pdfs/ch03setting.pdf 99 Habitat Conservation Plan Association. 2006. East Contra Costa County HCP/NCCP: Physical and Biological Resources. 100 US Dept. of Interior, Bureau of Reclamation. 2017. Bay Area Regional Reliability Drought Contingency Plan. 101 EcoAdapt. 2013. “Southern California Riparian Habitats.” https://ecoadapt.org/data/documents/EcoAdapt_SoCalVASynthesis_Riparian_FINAL2017.pdf 102 Jones & Stokes. 2006. East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservation Plan and Natural Community Conservation Plan. http://www.co.contra-costa.ca.us/depart/cd/water/HCP/archive/final-hcp-rev/pdfs/ch03setting.pdf 103 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 104 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 105 US Dept. of Interior, Bureau of Reclamation. 2017. Bay Area Regional Reliability Drought Contingency Plan. 106 US Dept. of Interior, Bureau of Reclamation. 2017. Bay Area Regional Reliability Drought Contingency Plan. 107 Habitat Conservation Plan Association. 2006. East Contra Costa County HCP/NCCP: Physical and Biological Resources. 108 Roos, Michelle. (E4 Strategic Solutions). 2018. Climate Justice Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: SUM-CCCA4-2018-012. 109 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 110 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 111 Jones & Stokes. 2006. East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservation Plan and Natural Community Conservation Plan. http://www.co.contra-costa.ca.us/depart/cd/water/HCP/archive/final-hcp-rev/pdfs/ch03setting.pdf 112 Habitat Conservation Plan Association. 2006. East Contra Costa County HCP/NCCP: Physical and Biological Resources 113 Ackerly, David, Andrew Jones, Mark Stacey, Bruce Riordan. (University of California, Berkeley). 2018. San Francisco Bay Area Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: CCCA4-SUM-2018-005. 114 Ackerly, David, Andrew Jones, Mark Stacey, Bruce Riordan. (University of California, Berkeley). 2018. San Francisco Bay Area Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: CCCA4-SUM-2018-005. Page 323CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Vulnerability Assessment Appendix Contra Costa County – Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan – October 2023 C -47 115 US Dept. of Energy. 2013. US Energy Sector Vulnerabilities to Climate Change and Extreme Weather. https://toolkit.climate.gov/sites/default/files/20130716-Energy%20Sector%20Vulnerabilities%20Report.pdf. 116 Tetra Tech. 2018. Contra Costa County Hazard Mitigation Plan: Volume 1 - Planning Area-Wide Elements. 117 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 118 Adapting to Rising Tides (ART). 2017. Adapting to Rising Tides: Contra Costa County Assessment and Adaptation Project. 119 Ackerly, David, Andrew Jones, Mark Stacey, Bruce Riordan. (University of California, Berkeley). 2018. San Francisco Bay Area Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: CCCA4-SUM-2018-005. Page 324CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Page 325CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Page 326CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 Page 327CoCoCounty-2024CAP-PublicDRAFT-10-10-23_Final.pdf Printed 04/23/2024 ATTACHMENT G REDLINED DRAFT 2045 GENERAL PLAN SHOWING STAFF RECOMMENDED EDITS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Introduction 1 -1 1 INTRODUCTION WHAT IS THE GENERAL PLAN? The Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan is the County’s primary policy tool to guide physical changes in the unincorporated areas of the county. This General Plan looks over 20 years into the future and establishes a vision for development of our communities and stewardship of our natural environment. It is aspirational and long-range, but also practical, providing a useful, everyday guide for community planning. Legal Authority California Government Code Section 65301California law requires every county and city in the state to adopt a general plan “for the physical development of the county or city, and of any land outside its boundaries which in the planning agency’s judgement bears relation to its planning.” Decades ago, local general plans were viewed as a set of broad policies that had small roles in development decisions. However, changes in State law since the original statutes were adopted in the 1950s have vastly increased the importance and authority of general plans. Each jurisdiction's general plan acts as its “charter” or “constitution” governing development. State law requires local governments to implement their general plan once it has been adopted. A general plan provides a comprehensive, long-range statement of the jurisdiction’s land use policies for the coming decades. It must respond to existing conditions, anticipate emerging trends that will shape the community of tomorrow, and provide flexibility for balancing necessarily competing goals and policies. General plans typically have four defining features: ● Comprehensive. A general plan covers a wide range of planning-related topics such as land use, housing, economic development, environmental justice, sustainability and resiliency, transportation and mobility, public health and safety, recreation, and natural resources. ● General. A general plan does not attempt to address every topic in detail; instead, it provides high-level policy guidance that will be used to direct future decisions. ● Long-Range and Aspirational. A community’s general plan articulates a vision for how it will develop, normally over a timeframe of approximately 20 years. ● Internally Consistent and Compatible. While addressing a wide range of topics, the goals, policies, and actions in a general plan nevertheless establish a unified and coherent framework for decision-making. This General Plan references numerous public agencies, geographic areas, and political boundaries, which often share a common name. For example, the proper noun “Contra Costa County” can refer to either the public agency led by the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors, or the geographic area defined by Contra Costa County’s borders. To avoid confusion, this General Plan uses capital letters when referencing public agencies and lowercase letters when referencing political boundaries or geographic areas. Thus, “the County” (capitalized “C”) means the governing body of Contra Costa County, while “the county” (lowercase “c”) means the territory within Contra Costa County’s borders. In instances where complete proper nouns are used, the meaning should be discernible from the context. 1 -2 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Introduction Together with specific plans adopted for various communities, the Zoning Code and related sections of the County Ordinance Code, Climate Action and Adaptation Plan, and Objective Design Standards, the County’s General Plan serves as the basis for planning- and infrastructure-related decisions made by County staff, the County Planning Commission and other County commissions and committees, and the Board of Supervisors. USER’S GUIDE The Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan is for all members of the community and anyone interested in the future of the county. It was crafted with a constant eye toward keeping it clear, implementable, and useful as time passes, implementable, and easy to understandclear. The graphic on the following page explains the individual components found on a typical page of the Plan that providinges policy guidance. Words, Phrasing, and Interpretation Great care was taken to ensure that this General Plan is relatable and easy to understand. Terms of art, jargon, and unnecessarily technical or abstract language have been avoided whenever possible. Unless context dictates otherwise, all words and phrases herein should be interpreted consistently with their most common usage and meaning. The goals, policies, and actions in this General Plan include verbs, usually at or near the beginning, that provide direction and express varying degrees of obligation or applicability. Words such as “require,” “prohibit,” “approve,” and “deny” indicate mandatory directives. “Encourage,” “discourage,” “consider,” “should,” “may,” and similar words provide less rigid direction. The flexibility inherent to such words must not be misinterpreted though; the guidance they provide must be followed absent compelling, conflicting considerations. While every effort has been made to provide clear and comprehensive policy direction through this General Plan’s text and graphics, unique or unusual situations will necessitate interpretation from time to time. The Department of Conservation and Development Director is ultimately responsible for interpreting this document, their decisions being appealable to the Board of Supervisors as provided in Title 1 of the County Ordinance Code. Overview of the Elements State law requires that general plans contain eight mandatory chapters, or “elements.” The State allows considerable flexibility in how these elements are organized. They can be combined, split up, renamed, or otherwise modified so long as the required content is present. The State also allows for inclusion of any number of optional elements to address issues of local importance. All elements, mandatory or optional, have the same legal standing once adopted. No single element supersedes any other, and all elements must be internally consistent (i.e., the goals, policies, actions, maps, and diagrams must be in harmony with one another across topic areas and not conflict). Table INT-1 lists the State-mandated elements and their counterparts in the Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan, as well as two optional elements that the community considers fundamental to maintaining the quality of life in the county. This General Plan addresses all topics required by State law, with their organization tailored to the local context. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Introduction 1 -3 Placeholder page for the How to Use This General Plan graphic – Will be inserted into PDF. 1 -4 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Introduction TABLE INT-1 STATE-MANDATED AND CONTRA COSTA COUNTY 2045 GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS State-Mandated Element Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan Element Land Use Land Use Circulation Transportation Housing Housing Conservation Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Open Space Safety Health and Safety Noise Environmental Justice Stronger Communities Also incorporated throughout allmost other Elements Optional Elements Any element addressing a locally relevant topic relating to the jurisdiction’s physical development Public Facilities and Services Growth Management Each Element of this General Plan includes background information that provides context for the goals, policies, and actions that follow. The background information often includes maps, diagrams, and other graphic components to illustrate key data and concepts. In addition to the background information and goals, policies, and actions that are included in each Element, the Stronger Communities Element contains 22 Community Profiles, which provide community-specific guidance that speaks to the unique needs of individual communities. Community members discuss their vision for the future of Crockett. Goals, Policies, and Actions The Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan is built around goals, policies, and actions that must be implemented to achieve the community’s vision for the future. Goals, policies, and actions are found in every Element. Placement of a goal, policy, or action in a specific Element does not limit its scope to only that Element’s topic. For example, a policy in the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element can apply to topics beyond the realm of conservation, open space, and working lands. There also is not a one-to-one correspondence between policies and actions. An individual action can implement more than one policy and contribute to achieving multiple goals across different Elements. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Introduction 1 -5 Other Components of the Plan A Glossary and List of Abbreviations are provided for reference (Chapter 11). The Appendices include a compilation of the policies and actions that relate to each of the four themes described in the next section (Appendix A), as well as a technical appendix to provide additional detail on health and safety topics (Appendix B). While not contained within the General Plan, an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the General Plan has been prepared pursuant to the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The EIR evaluates the effects of the General Plan’s policy guidance on Contra Costa County’s environment and includes mitigation measures to lessen the General Plan’s potential environmental impacts when possible. Policies and actions that mitigate potential impacts are identified in this General Plan with an asterisk. The EIR also identifies impacts that cannot be mitigated to acceptable levels (i.e., significant and unavoidable impacts) and areas where more detailed environmental analysis may be required as specific projects are proposed in the future. GENERAL PLAN OBJECTIVES AND THEMES The Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan replaces the previous General Plan adopted in January 1991. While the 1991 General Plan was refreshed in 1996 and 2005, it remained rooted in planning concepts from the 1980s and earlier. The overarching objective of this comprehensive General Plan update has been the creation of a modern, visionary, and nimble policy document designed to address the opportunities and challenges of the 21 st century. Because the county spans a wide geography with diverse communities that have different visions, goals, and opportunities for growth, another important objective was to plan at a community scale, rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all policy approach throughout the county. Sunrise over Mount Diablo. (Credit: Hao Li) When it decided to update the General Plan, the Board of Supervisors directed County staff to incorporate four themes: environmental justice, community health, economic development, and sustainability. These themes are interrelated and woven throughout this General Plan. Policies and actions that relate to each theme are marked with a corresponding icon, as shown below and in the User’s Guide above. ● Environmental Justice. Environmental justice policies and actions intend to reduce the unique or compounded health risks in communities that experience the highest levels of pollution and negative health outcomes, such as asthma and low birth weight babies, and the greatest social and economic disadvantages, such as poverty and housing instability. This General Plan refers to these areas as ”Impacted Communities” and focuses on improving environmental 1 -6 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Introduction justice for the people living there by promoting meaningful community engagement and prioritizing improvements that address their needs. Environmental justice is a new topic that was not discussed in the prior General Plan. State law now requires that general plans address environmental justice and it is a matter of great concern to many county residents. While this topic is addressed throughout the General Plan, the Stronger Communities Element provides detailed information about Impacted Communities and environmental justice. ● Community Health. The physical and mental health of community members is inextricably linked to where and how communities are developed. Therefore, the community health policies and actions guide planning and development decisions to provide opportunities for community members to live healthy lifestyles, including by improving peoples’ ability to walk or bike between destinations, providing multi- modal transportation connections, creating opportunities for social interaction, and promoting access to outdoor recreation, he althy food, and medical facilities. The community health policy guidance additionally aims to reduce exposure of all community members to pollutants that can adversely affect their health. ● Economic Development. The economic development policies and actions aim to develop the county’s workforce and attract and support sustainable businesses and industries that provide living-wage jobs, invest in hiring from the local workforce, and engage with communities. Investment in diversified industries, as supported in the economic development policy guidance, promotes innovation, builds the tax base, and allows residents to work in the county where they live. ● Sustainability. Sustainability means meeting the needs of today’s population while leaving viable resources to meet the needs of future generations. One important part of a sustainable future is resiliency, which is the ability to withstand, recover, and learn from a disruptive experience, such as a wildfire, flood, or pandemic. The sustainability policies and actions aim to conserve resources, improve resiliency (especially to the impacts of climate change), protect the environment, reduce pollution, and enhance overall quality of life. Community farms promote access to healthy food, supporting environmental justice and community health goals. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Introduction 1 -7 IMPLEMENTING THE GENERAL PLAN Long-range planning in Contra Costa County does not endbegins with adoption of the General Plan. To achieve the community’s vision and objectives, decisions abouton development projects, capital improvements, County programs and services, and other issues related to the physical environment must be consistent with the General Plan’s policies. In addition, tThe implementing actions identified throughout the Plan must be carried out. Finally, the County needs tomust monitor progress in achieving the major goals of the Plan, periodically adjusting policy guidance as needed to advance those goals in response to contextual changes that may occur over the next 20 yearsthrough the 2024-2045 planning period. County Decision-Making Structure Decisions on matters addressed in this General Plan occur at various levels of County government. ● The Board of Supervisors is Contra Costa County’s legislative body. The Board consists of five members, each representing a geographically - defined supervisorial district. Among its many responsibilities, the Board adopts the County’s annual budget, adopts General Plan amendments and rezonings, acts on appeals of County Planning Commission decisions, and authorizes construction of capital projects. ● The County Planning Commission (CPC) consists of seven residents appointed by the Board of Supervisors. The CPC’s responsibilities include making recommendations to the Board on General Plan amendments and rezonings, hearing and deciding on development applications for projects generating 100 or more peak hour vehicular trips, and acting on appeals of County Zoning Administrator decisions. The CPC also acts on applications referred by the Zoning Administrator. ● The Contra Costa County Planning Director is the County Zoning Administrator. The Zoning Administrator and their appointed Deputy Zoning Administrators render decisions on most development applications (i.e., projects generating fewer than 100 peak hour vehicular trips, certain subdivisions, land use permits, development plans, variances, sign permits, lot line adjustments, etc.). ● Department of Conservation and Development (DCD) staff is responsible for day-to-day implementation of the General Plan, Zoning Code, and other County planning documents. DCD staff reviews development applications for compliance with County planning policies and regulations, conducts environmental reviews, and makes recommendations to decision-makers on planning matters. Relationship of the General Plan to Other County Planning Documents This General Plan establishes a vision and framework for land use planning and environmental stewardship in unincorporated Contra Costa County. To facilitate General Plan implementation, the Board of Supervisors has adopted additional documents regulating planning and development. ● Specific Plans focus on smaller geographic areas than general plans and address topics such as land use distribution, infrastructure, development standards (e.g., building heights and setbacks, parking ratios, and landscaping requirements), financing, and plan implementation in detail. The County has adopted specific plans for all or part of Alhambra Valley, Bay Point, Contra Costa Centre, El Sobrante, Montalvin Manor, North Richmond, Northgate, Rodeo, and Shell Ridge. ● Development activities in the unincorporated county are regulated primarily through four titles of the County Ordinance Code: Title 7 – 1 -8 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Introduction Building Regulations, Title 8 – Zoning, Title 9 – Subdivisions, and Title 10 – Public Works and Flood Control. These precise regulations address building construction, land uses, development standards, and design and construction of public improvements in greater detail than the General Plan. ● Objective Design Standards (ODS) facilitate expedited review of qualifying multiple-family residential and mixed-use development projects. The ODS address site design and layout, architecture, building massing, materials, lighting, and landscaping. ● The Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) implements the General Plan’s policy guidance to adapt to changing climate conditions and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The CAAP addresses behaviors, regulations, and investment decisions that directly reduce GHG emissions or promote climate resilience and lays out an implementation and monitoring program to ensure that the County reduces GHG emissions consistent with State emissi ons reduction targets. State law requires consistency between the General Plan and its subordinate implementing documents. ThereforeThus, when the General Plan is amended, the County must review its other planning documents and amend them as necessary to ensure consistency is maintained consistency with the General Plan. Pursuant to State law, wherever a conflict or inconsistency exists between the General Plan and its subordinate documents, the General Plan controls and shall be followed. General Plan Action Program The General Plan Action Program is the mechanism to track implementation of the General Plan’s actions through 2045. The Action Program contains all actions from the General Plan, organized by Element, and provides important details for how each action will be implemented, including: ● The goal that the action implements. ● County departments and partner agencies and organizations with primary and supporting responsibility to execute the action. ● The timeframe for achieving the action. ● General cost range estimates associated with implementing the action. The Contra Costa County DCD is responsible for maintaining the Action Program and tracking implementation progress. The Action Program is maintained as an accompanying document to the General Plan so that it can be regularly updated as actions are accomplished without the need for a formal General Plan amendment. As with other County policy documents,The pace of implementation of the aActions PlanProgram ultimately is subject todependent on the resources that the County and its partners have to carry them outavailable and need tomust remain consistent with the County’s long-term financial plans, as reflected in its annual budget. TrackingAssessing Progress Toward Goals Every five years over the lifetime of the General Plan, the County will trackassess progress in achieving its major goals through a review of the performance measures listed at the end of each General Plan Element. Based on these reviews, the County will consider whether changes are needed to the policy framework or implementation approach to improve performance. The County will present this five-year review in a clear, concise report to the CPC and Board of Supervisors and post the report on the County’s website. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Introduction 1 -9 Amending the General Plan The General Plan is not a static document; it is intended to be as dynamic as needed by the Contra Costa County community. Over time, the County will amend portions of the General Plan in response to new legislation, evolving community priorities and values, changes in the county’s physical or economic conditions, and proposed development. It is also inevitable that refinements will be necessary to improve progress towards achieving the major goals of the General Plan. General Plan amendments (GPAs) can be initiated by the County or requested by private entities. When the County receives a request for a GPA from a private entity, staff will forward the request to the Board of Supervisors with a recommendation on whether to consider the request further. If the Board authorizes the GPA process to proceed, staff will collect the required application materials and fees and prepare an environmental evaluation of the proposal as required under CEQA. After the environmental documentation is prepared, staff will submit a report to the CPC. The report will include an analysis of the request, a recommendation to approve or deny, and findings to support the recommendation. The CPC will then conduct a public hearing and forward a recommendation to the Board of Supervisors, which will conduct another hearing and render a decision. The process is similar for County-initiated GPAs. To amend the General Plan, the Board of Supervisors must determine that the proposed GPA satisfies the following findings: (a) That adoption of the proposed General Plan amendment is in the public interest, as required under Government Code Section 65359(a). (b) That adoption of the proposed General Plan amendment will not exceed the annual limit on General Plan amendments specified in Government Code Section 65358(b). (c) That upon adoption of the proposed General Plan amendment, the General Plan will remain internally consistent and compatible, as required under Government Code Section 65300.5(a). (d) That adoption of the proposed General Plan amendment will not violate the provisions of the 65/35 Land Preservation Standard or Urban Limit Line, as outlined in Measure L-2006. (e) That adoption of the proposed General Plan amendment is compliant with the provisions of Measure J-2004, the Contra Costa Growth Management Program, and related Contra Costa Transportation Authority resolutions. (f) That adoption of the proposed General Plan amendment will not impede attainment of the County’s goals related to environmental justice, community health, economic development, and sustainability. If these findings can be satisfied, then the Board will adopt a resolution approving the GPA. 1 -10 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Introduction This page intentionally left blank. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Planning Context 2 -1 2 PLANNING CONTEXT PLANNING AREA Contra Costa County encompasses 806 square miles, approximately 716 of which are land. About 40 percent of this area is under the planning jurisdiction of 19 incorporated cities and towns. The remainder, which is under the County’s planning jurisdiction, is diverse and ranges from small agricultural communities like Byron in the county’s southeast corner, with a quiet downtown and fewer than 1,200 residents, to Contra Costa Centre, a bustling mixed-use transit village with a population density of 8,400 people per square mile. The landscape of Contra Costa County is governed and managed by a variety of agencies. The 19 incorporated cities and towns control land use and various other activities within their city/town limits. The County controls land use and development in the unincorporated areas outside of those city/town limits. Each city or town has a “sphere of influence” (SOI) that extends beyond the city/town limits and delineates unincorporated areas that the city or town may annex in the future. Once annexed, those areas become part of the incorporated city or town and are no longer regulated by this General Plan. Figure PC-1 displays the planning area boundaries in the county. Other agencies that regulate and manage land, resources, facilities, and activities in the county include various elements of the federal and California governments and many different types of special districts, such as transit, school, park, utility, and fire districts. The jurisdictional areas of these agencies overlap with the incorporated areas governed by cities and towns and the unincorporated areas governed by the County. Rolling hills span large portions of Contra Costa County’s vast landscape. (Community- submitted photo) GEOGRAPHIC SETTING Contra Costa County is in the East Bay region of the San Francisco Bay Area. The county directly abuts San Francisco, San Pablo, and Suisun Bays; the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta; and Alameda and San Joaquin Counties. Beyond the Bays and Delta are the counties of San Francisco, Marin, Napa, Solano, and Sacramento. 2 -2 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Planning Context FIGURE PC-1 PLANNING JURISDICTIONS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County General Plan 2045 – Planning Context 2 -3 There is a long history of people living in what is now Contra Costa County and using the land for a variety of purposes. Members of the Bay Miwok, Northern Valley Yokuts, and Ohlone Tribes were the first inhabitants (the county’s native people are further discussed in the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element). Spanish colonization of what is now California began in 1769 (Contra Costa County’s name is Spanish for “opposite coast” because of its location across from San Francisco). Spain controlled the area until Mexico won its independence in 1821. Under Mexican rule, much of the county was divided amongst 15 land grants, or ranchos. Acalanes, Pacheco, El Sobrante, and many other locations in the county derive their names from the ranchos or their owners. The county, along with the rest of California, was ceded to the United States in 1848 following the Mexican-American War. Contra Costa County was established in 1850 as one of California’s original 27 counties, with Martinez as the county seat. Fewer than 5,000 people lived in the county at the time. The current physical form and character of the county has largely been defined by the pattern of urban development sparked by rapid industrialization during World War II and the economic expansion and diversification that followed. • West County was the first area to develop with urban and industrial uses. Several cities and unincorporated communities existed in the area prior to World War II, but they were relatively small (Richmond, by far the largest city in the county at the time, had a population of 23,093 in the 1940 Census). However, West County became a hub of industrial activity during the war (Kaiser Shipyards in Richmond produced nearly 750 ships, more than any other shipyard complex in the country), leading to fast and extensive urbanization. By 1950, Richmond’s population approached 100,000. • Central County experienced a wave of suburbanization during the prosperous post-World War II economy of the 1950s and 1960s. Rural agricultural communities were transformed into cities as middle- and upper-class residents, most of whom were White, were provided the opportunity to live in newly constructed housing tracts and commute via the expanding freeway network. Construction of the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system in the 1960s and 1970s enhanced the area’s desirability and facilitated additional development. Portions of Pleasant Hill and Concord in the late 1950s, including Interstate 680, which was under construction, and new subdivisions adjacent to the agriculture that existed at the time. (Credit: Contra Costa Historical Society) • The suburban development pattern began extending into the agricultural landscape of East County in the 1980s. Small cities such as Brentwood grew rapidly, and a new city, Oakley, was incorporated in 1999. Residents were attracted to East County by lower housing costs 2 -4 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Planning Context and scenic open spaces, as well as the extension of BART to the Pittsburg/Bay Point Station in 1996. SOCIOECONOMIC SETTING Demographic Characteristics Nearly 1.2 million people live in Contra Costa County. Approximately 175,000 reside in the unincorporated county, making it the most populous of Contra Costa County’s 20 planning jurisdictions. Most of the county’s population is consolidated along the major transportation corridors, including Interstates 80 and 680, State Routes 4 and 24, and the BART lines. Most job opportunities are within those same population centers, the majority of which are incorporated, though there are almost 40,000 jobs within the unincorporated county. The median age of Contra Costa County residents is 40 years old. The population has been steadily aging since 1970, when the median age was about 28 years old. Since 2010, the fastest-growing age group has been seniors 65 and older as the Baby Boomer generation ages. The second- fastest growth occurred in the 55 to 64 age group, which includes younger Baby Boomers and older members of Generation X. In the unincorporated county, the majority of residents fall within the 45 -64 and 5-19 age brackets. The youngest unincorporated communities are Bay Point and North Richmond, with respective median ages of 32 and 34, while the oldest unincorporated communities are Alamo and Diablo, where the median age is 51 and 56, respectively. The median household income for a family of four in Contra Costa County is almost $154,000. Median household incomes vary significantly across communities. The median household income for a family of four in North Richmond is under $60,000, while median incomes for a family of four in Alamo and Diablo are over $250,000. Overall, approximately 40 percent of Contra Costa County residents are non- Hispanic White, 9.5 percent are Black or African American, 27 percent are Hispanic or Latino, 20 percent are Asian, and 3.5 percent are Native American, Pacific Islander, or other races. The racial and ethnic makeup of communities also varies across the county, ranging from North Richmond, where 95 percent of residents are people of color, to Diablo, where 5 percent of residents are people of color. Relationship Between Land Use Practices and Socioeconomic Outcomes Land use practices across much of the United States are rooted in a legacy of discrimination. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, large American cities, including New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Boston, began experimenting with regulations similar to modern zoning. Laws were enacted to address overcrowding, the negative impacts of industrialization, and development of substantially taller buildings made possible by new technologies and construction methods. In 1916 New York adopted the first American zoning ordinance. These early planning regulations and policies aimed to improve public health, but typically had racist or classist underpinnings as well. Those responsible for shaping these policies often sought to maintain, and in many cases create, segregated communities. Racially-motivated zoning plans kept communities of color in the inner city near industrial and other polluting land uses, particularly during the Great Migration when Black people were moving from rural communities in the South to larger cities in the North and West. White families, meanwhile, were encouraged to move toward urban outskirts and newly-constructed suburbs, away from the harmful aspects of city life. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County General Plan 2045 – Planning Context 2 -5 These discriminatory zoning practices were initially deemed unconstitutional in Buchanan v. Warley, a landmark Supreme Court case from 1917, but they continued to be enforced and shaped the future of racially discriminatory housing policies. Harland Bartholomew, the first urban planner employed full-time by a major American city, stated that a goal of St. Louis’ 1919 zoning plan was to, “preserve the more desirable residential neighborhoods” and prevent movement into “finer residential districts…by colored people.” In 1926 another landmark Supreme Court case, Euclid v. Ambler, established that zoning itself is constitutional. This prompted zoning, and its ability to segregate communities, to spread rapidly throughout the country. This 1937 map illustrates the redlining of San Francisco based on Home Owners’ Loan Corporation data. (Credit: University of Richmond Mapping Inequities Project) Redlining, a practice that emerged in the 1930s, further perpetuated community segregation as it hindered the ability for people of color to obtain real estate loans. The Home Owners’ Loan Corporation, established in 1933 as part of the New Deal, created maps to inform the risk level of a loan in a given area. Surveyors delineated and rated neighborhoods in numerous metropolitan areas; those with the lowest rating were outlined in red (hence the term “redlining”). These ratings were often based on the racial makeup of the neighborhood, with communities of color regularly ranking lowest. This practice denied people of color access to financial resources and associated opportunities, leading to disinvestment, low homeownership rates, and decreased property values. New Deal-era investments in the 1930s followed these trend lines by focusing investments in White neighborhoods. New forms of housing-related discrimination appeared in the 1940s and 1950s. World War II veterans were entitled to benefits provided through the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944, also known as the G.I. Bill, which among other things included access to low-cost mortgages and money to attend college. However, while these opportunities ostensibly were available to all who had served, they overwhelmingly benefited White veterans and facilitated “White flight” from cities to suburbs. Meanwhile, public infrastructure and redevelopment projects often displaced communities of color that remained in urban areas. Continuing through the 1950s and into the 1960s, urban renewal policies sought to eliminate blight by razing and reconstructing large sections of cities, dislocating residents and often destroying the fabric of minority communities in the process. In the 1960s, legislation such as the Fair Housing Act and Civil Rights Act aimed to challenge exclusionary zoning and discrimination in housing. These laws prohibited discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, familial status, and age, and created a duty within all levels of government to promote fair housing and overcome segregation. Despite these efforts, the effects of exclusionary zoning practices and discriminatory housing policies still contribute to wealth disparities. Home ownership has been one of the most effective means of building family wealth in America. 2 -6 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Planning Context Communities of color who were denied home ownership opportunities have not been able to build equity and wealth as effectively as others. Restrictive covenants like this were included in the deeds to thousands of residential properties developed in Contra Costa County following World War II. In Contra Costa County, this wealth disparity is evident through demographic data showing that many of the unincorporated communities with low median household incomes also have a high proportion of residents that are Black, Asian, or Latino. State data also indicates that the same communities suffer from higher rates of health conditions like asthma and cardiovascular disease. Proximity to pollution, lack of access to adequate healthcare, and public and private disinvestment have all contributed to these conditions. In 2022, the County established the Office of Racial Equity and Social Justice to address local racial inequality and social injustice issues. This General Plan aligns with that mission by confronting over 100 years of discriminatory planning practices in our country, explicitly working to eliminate wealth and health disparities and progressively improve quality of life and health outcomes in communities of color. THE GENERAL PLAN UPDATE PROCESS The physical and socioeconomic settings of Contra Costa County are important in shaping the General Plan. Equally important are the voices of the people who shared their needs and ideas and helped the County articulate a vision for the future. The process to update the General Plan began in December 2017 when the Board of Supervisors directed the Department of Conservation and Development (DCD) to oversee updates to the General Plan and Zoning Code, which itself had never been comprehensively overhauled since its original adoption in 1947. The Board subsequently directed DCD to concurrently update the County’s 2015 Climate Action Plan. Substantive work on the updates began in September 2018, with public outreach kicking off in February 2019. Over the next fourfive years, the County held or participated in over 125150 public and community-organized meetings with residents, community advocates, stakeholders, and public officials, including: • Multiple Mmeetings of the Board of Supervisors, Planning Commission, Sustainability Commission, Library Commission, Hazardous Materials Commission, Arts and Culture Commission, Sustainability Committee, Transportation, Water, and Infrastructure Committee, Aviation Advisory Committee, Historic Landmarks Advisory Committee, Aviation Advisory Committee, and all 13 Municipal Advisory Councils. • AlmostOver 50 community meetings, workshops, and open houses held across the county. • Stakeholder meetings on environmental justice, community health, sustainability, and economic development. • Native American tribal consultations. • Over 230 meetings with various community-based organizations representing a wide range of interests in the county. In addition, throughout the process the Envision Contra Costa website provided information about upcoming meetings, access to draft documents, and online tools that community members used to share their thoughts. The online tools were especially important during the COVID-19 pandemic, as Public Review Draft Contra Costa County General Plan 2045 – Planning Context 2 -7 they allowed community members to remain engaged and even attend meetings virtually. Input and direction from the public and County officials were incorporated into each component of the General Plan. The first phase of the process included research and documentation of baseline conditions in Contra Costa County. This effort resulted in an online Briefing Book that established a shared understanding of important characteristics of the county, and highlighted assets to build from and challenges to address as the General Plan was updated. The Briefing Book was used during the initial phase of community outreach, which focused on individual unincorporated communities, to support conversations about community-specific challenges and opportunities. Input from this phase formed the basis for preparation of draft Community Profiles that provide a description of the community and its unique context and present a policy framework for a desired future. For communities with a robust set of concerns to address, the County held subsequent rounds of community meetings to present the draft Profiles for feedback and discussion, working to ensure the vision and policy guidance reflect each community’s values and hopes. Community members in North Richmond shared their concerns and ideas for the North Richmond Community Profile and the countywide environmental justice policy guidance. This phase of outreach and engagement also supported preparation of goals, policies, and actions to address environmental justice throughout the county. While many issues raised during the community meetings were specific to a community and required community-specific policy guidance, as provided in the Community Profiles, some issues were common across communities, and lent themselves to the countywide policy framework. The County held three to four meetings in each community that is most impacted by environmental justice issues (i.e., Impacted Communities, which are defined and discussed in the Stronger Communities Element) to identify and understand the issues and consider policy approaches. These meetings were supplemented by two collaboration meetings with environmental justice stakeholders and about 15 meetings with community-based organizations who work with Impacted Communities to identify Impacted Communities, key environmental justice issues, and appropriate policy approaches. In addition, a three-part meeting series with environmental justice stakeholders was held to review and refine draft policy guidance, and 2 -8 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Planning Context several meetings were scheduled with the Board of Supervisors Sustainability Committee and the County’s Sustainability Commission and Hazardous Materials Commission to discuss draft policy guidance. The County also conducted a hard copy and online survey to solicit feedback on draft environmental justice policy guidance, working with community partners to distribute hard copies at strategic locations to reach people during the COVID-19 pandemic, including at schools, libraries, farmers markets, food banks, and soup kitchens. Following refinement of the Community Profiles and preparation of draft environmental justice policy guidance, the County prepared draft goals, policies, and actions for all remaining topics that apply throughout the unincorporated area. The countywide policy framework is based on a combination of guidance from the 1991 General Plan, input from community members and decision-makers throughout the process, State and local laws, and best practices in the planning field, and to a lesser extent, guidance from the 1991 General Plan. The County Planning Commission and other commissions and committees reviewed the draft policy guidance during study sessions in the first half of 2022, and an online survey was distributed to community members to gain additional feedback. During the second half of 2022 and into 2023, the County refined the countywide goals, policies, and actions and prepared the remaining components of the General Plan (e.g., maps, context, and glossary, etc.). The entirecompleted draft General Plan, along with the draft Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) and their accompanying draft Environmental Impact Report, were released for public review in FallOctober 2023, with the review period ending in April 2024. Nearly 300 individual comments and suggestions were submitted. The County reviewed these comments and presented revised drafts of the General Plan and CAAP to the Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors during study sessions in July 2024. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -1 3 STRONGER COMMUNITIES ELEMENT A county is only as strong and healthy as its people. We all want the future to be safe, healthy, equitable, and sustainable for everyone, but these ideals may look different to individual people and communities. Most of the people in Contra Costa County live and work in incorporated cities and towns, but there are also a multitude of vibrant unincorporated communities that each contribute to a rich history and ongoing culture and identity of the people in the county. This Stronger Communities Element aims for all of us to feel safe in our homes and neighborhoods; have access to healthy food, the outdoors, living wage jobs, and healthcare; have opportunities for self -expression through art and cultural celebration; benefit from business innovation and investment; and strengthen bonds with other community members. The focus of this Element is on promoting community resiliency and fostering a spirit of collaboration and opportunities for positive collective impact. This Element presents policy guidance that applies to unincorporated communities throughout the county, followed by Community Profiles that address issues unique to each community. It is organized into eight sections that highlight the priorities of the broad Contra Costa County community: ● The Environmental Justice section includes policy guidance that works to counteract a history of discrimination, neglect, and disempowerment and improve the quality of life and health outcomes in low-income communities and communities of color. ● The Community Health section includes policy guidance to support the physical and mental health of community members through improvements to the built environment and by providing services to bolster social support networks and promote physical wellbeing. ● The Healthy Homes section includes policy guidance aimed at providing safe and sanitary housing conditions for all residents. ● The Arts and Culture section includes policy guidance to promote civic art and cultural events that are accessible to every resident, celebrate the unique identity of individual communities, and strengthen the local economy. ● The Economic Vitality and Empowerment section includes policy guidance to develop and maintain a workforce that possesses the education and skills employers need, promote living wage job opportunities, and cultivate a thriving economy that contributes to the region’s economic health. ● The Community Engagement section includes policy guidance to promote community involvement and ensure diverse viewpoints and values are represented in the decision-making process. ● The Stronger Communities Element Performance Measures describe how the County will track its progress in achieving some of the major objectives expressed in this Element. ● The Community Profiles provide community-specific contextual information and policy guidance for individual communities to address their unique needs. 3 -2 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element This General Plan highlights policies and actions that address four major themes that serve as a framework for the Plan. For the reader’s ease, policies and actions related to these themes are identified throughout the General Plan using the following icons. The policies and actions related to each theme are also compiled in Appendix A. See Chapter 1 for more information about each theme. Community Health Environmental Justice Economic Development Sustainability Community gardens provide access to fresh produce and can serve as focal points for communities. ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE Throughout California, low-income communities and communities of color have experienced a combination of historical discrimination, neglect, and political and economic disempowerment. The result is that today they are impacted with a disproportionate burden of pollution and associated health conditions, as well as disproportionate social and economic disadvantages such as poverty or housing instability. Many low-income households and communities of color in Contra Costa County are concentrated in neighborhoods where they continue to face significant threats to their overall health and livelihood. In 2022, in response to these and other related concerns, the County established the Office of Racial Equity and Social Justice to address local racial inequality and social injustice issues. The Office of Racial Equity and Social Justice is envisioned to enact and sustain principles, policies, practices, and investments that are racially just and equitable across all the County’s departments and divisions. California Senate Bill (SB) 1000, enacted in 2016, requires that general plans address environmental justice and respond to inequity by alleviating pollution and health impacts and compelling cities and counties to include the voices of previously marginalized residents in planning decisions. Community members across Contra Costa County have confirmed the need to prioritize these strategies. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -3 Figure SC-1 shows unincorporated communities in Contra Costa County that are disproportionately burdened by pollution or face disproportionate social or health vulnerabilities. These are called “Impacted Communities” throughout this General Plan. These areas were mapped using the California Communities Environmental Health Screening Tool (CalEnviroScreen), a tool advocated by community groups and developed by the State Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment on behalf of the California Environmental Protection Agency. CalEnviroScreen measures pollution and population characteristics using 21 indicators, such as air quality, hazardous waste sites, asthma rates, and poverty. It applies a formula to each census tract in the state to generate a score th at ranks the level of cumulative impacts relative to the rest of the census tracts in the state. A census tract with a higher score is one that experiences higher pollution burdens and social or health vulnerabilities than census tracts with lower scores. The Impacted Communities shown in Figure SC-1 include census tracts with a cumulative score of 72 percent or higher. The CalEnviroScreen data is updated about every five years, so the Impacted Communities mapped in this General Plan may change over time. Accordingly, this General Plan includes policy guidance (see SC-A1.7) to regularly update the map of Impacted Communities with updated CalEnviroScreen data. Contra Costa County is home to a high concentration of refineries and other large industrial facilities. While these industries contribute to pollution and contamination in Impacted Communities, many community members also value the they also provide jobs, tax benefitsrevenue, community investments, and local energy production they provide. To mitigate the health and safety impacts of these industrial facilities, the County’s Industrial Safety Ordinance requires additional safety measures that go beyond State requirements to protect public health and safety. However, Impacted Communities still experience detrimental health outcomes due to their proximity to heavy industry and other sources of pollution like Interstate 80, State Route 4, and railroads. Railroads transport toxic substances through Impacted Communities such as North Richmond, presenting health and safety concerns for residents. In addition to pollution burdens, Impacted Communities have suffered from a sustained lack of public and private investment that has generally resulted in inadequate infrastructure and services and unkempt vacant and underdeveloped areas, harming neighborhood vitality and limiting property values and wealth-building capacity. The goals, policies, and actions in this section are intended to reduce these and other disadvantages and burdens experienced by Impacted Communities in Contra Costa County. It is a priority of the County to protect Impacted Communities from additional harm and progressively improve the quality of life and health outcomes of residents. 3 -4 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element FIGURE SC-1 IMPACTED COMMUNITIES Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -5 Policies SC-P1.1 In partnership with residents of Impacted Communities, affected workers, business/industry, environmental and environmental justice advocates, community colleges, workforce development and training entities, local government, and other involved agencies, support transition from petroleum refining and other highly polluting industries to a net-zero emission economy based on renewable and sustainable industries that provide living-wage jobs. SC-P1.2 Streamline the permitting process for new development, redevelopment, and rehabilitation projects that promotes community objectives in Impacted Communities, especially as identified in the Community Profiles. SC-P1.3 Support developmentcreation of walkable districts by facilitating development ofthat provide a range of neighborhood-serving retail and service uses, public amenities, and relatedessential infrastructure (such as lighting) tofor residents of Impacted Communities within walking distance of their homes. SC-P1.4 Support cultural and community-driven events, such as art festivals, farmers’ markets, and community service days, that support social connections, neighborhood identity, and environmental stewardship. SC-P1.5 Maintain a streamlined process to permit and facilitate partial and temporary street closures for community- drivensponsored amenities and activities, such as parklets, farmers’ markets, arts and cultural events, and outdoor dining, and assist applicants through the permit process. SC-P1.6 For projects with potential to negatively affecting an Impacted Community, support community benefits agreements (CBAs) negotiated with the project applicant to address the community’s expressed needs. The primary objective of these CBAs is to mitigate project impacts to the greatest extent possible, which could include mitigations exceeding the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Secondarily, to compensate for impacts that cannot be fully mitigated, these CBAs should secure community benefits that exceed inherent project benefits and support the Goal SC-1 Equitable distribution of social and economic resources among all communities in the county so that Impacted Communities are not disproportionately burdened by environmental pollution or other hazards. 3 -6 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element community’s objectives, especially as identified in the Community Profile. Neighborhood-serving retail uses that fill critical needs are exempt from this policy. SC-P1.7 Should a community no longer meet the threshold for designation as an Impacted Community during the 5-year review called for in Action SC-A1.7, examine the factors that contributed to the redesignation and determine whether continued action is needed to support the community in retaining its non-Impacted Community status. Actions SC-A1.1 Partner with the stakeholders identified in Policy SC-P1.1 to develop and implement a plan to transition from petroleum-refining and other highly polluting industries to renewable, sustainable, and clean industries that provide living-wage jobs. The plan should address site remediation responsibilities along with timelines and strategies to improve health, safety, infrastructure, job opportunities, and revenue opportunities during the transition toward a net-zero-emission economy, paying special attention to developing new opportunities for Impacted Communities to realize economic, health, educational, and other benefits, without placing a disproportionate economic burden on those with the least means. SC-A1.2 Amend County Ordinance Code Chapter 84-63, Land Use Permits for Development Projects Involving Hazardous Waste or Hazardous Materials, to: (a) Increase the hazard scores for projects with potential to adversely affect Impacted Communities to ensure more projects are subject to discretionary review. (b) Address ambiguities and antiquated terminology that complicate administration of the ordinance.* (c) Require preparation of a plan to prevent and remediate any contaminant releases, along with bonds or other financial assurances that guarantee remediation plans are implemented, for projects in areas subject to sea-level rise or tsunami inundation.* SC-A1.3 With input from residents of Impacted Communities, amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to create an Impacted Communities Overlay Zone that applies to areas within and adjacent to Impacted Communities. and establishes requirements for discretionary permits for nonresidential developments ofHeavy industrial projects and commercial and light industrial projects resulting in 25,000 square feet or more of gross habitable floor area within. Tthe overlay zone will include additionalbe required to satisfy additional discretionary permitproject findings that promote environmental justice, health, and safety, and economic prosperity. Projects able to satisfy the required findings will: (a) Provide benefits that support the community objectives, such as those identified in the Community Profile. (b) Provide economic benefits, including jobs, for residents of the community. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -7 (c) Avoid unwelcome permanent displacement of existing residents or businesses in the community. (d) Support community resiliency, cohesion, and safety. (e) Positively impact health and quality of life within the community. Create guidance for demonstrating consistency with these findings Aas part of the process to develop this ordinance, create guidance for demonstrating consistency with these findings. SC-A1.4 Submit a report to the Board of Supervisors on the feasibility of creating or participating in a public bank, public-private partnerships, community land trusts, and other types of economic development and wealth- building tools to support local interests, community development, and long-term community ownership and housing affordability in Impacted Communities. SC-A1.5 Establish a process for the County to assist community- based organizations and public-private partners with obtaining financing (e.g., grants) to implement physical improvements and beautification projects such as murals, vegetative buffers, and planting strips in Impacted Communities. SC-A1.6 Dedicate staff in appropriate departments to assist applicants from Impacted Communities in navigating the project application and review process for projects in their communities. SC-A1.7 Upon each 5-year review of the General Plan, review health outcomes data for Impacted Communities and assess any updated information related to the delineation of Impacted Communities in Contra Costa County. Update the map of Impacted Communities (Figure SC-1) and environmental justice-related goals, policies, and actions accordingly. SC-A1.8 As part of the annual General Plan progress report to the Board of Supervisors, describe specific efforts to implement the General Plan policies and actions related to environmental justice, highlighting efforts in each Impacted Community. Post this report in a visible location on the County website. See the Public Facilities and Services Element for policies and actions related to infrastructure and service deficiencies in disadvantaged unincorporated communities pursuant to Senate Bill 244. COMMUNITY HEALTH Healthy Neighborhoods Promoting public health and achieving healthy communities through the built environment is a fundamental goal of this General Plan. We increasingly understand the connection between planning decisions and physical and mental health. The layout of our communities, the designs of buildings and public spaces, and the effectiveness of our transportation networks affect whether residents are able to make healthy food choices, walk or bike to a 3 -8 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element destination, play outside, and breathe clean air. The built environment also influences the level of community violence and overall social cohesion. For many common health factors, residents in Contra Costa County generally fare better than others in California and the nation. However, asthma, cardiovascular disease, and low birth weight rates are higher in Contra Costa County than the rest of California (see Figures SC-2 through SC-4). There are many risk factors for these health conditions, including poor nutrition, lack of exercise, stress, smoking, and exposure to air pollution. Some of these factors are directly impacted by the built environment. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -9 FIGURE SC-2 ASTHMA RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE 3 -10 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element FIGURE SC-3 CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -11 FIGURE SC-4 LOW BIRTH WEIGHT RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE 3 -12 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element This section also emphasizes strong social networks, which improve health by offering emotional support through hardships, preventing isolation, and buffering stress. There is a recognized relationship between strong social networks, physical and mental health, and well-designed spaces. The most livable communities have high-quality public spaces that enhance community character, offer opportunities for formal and informal social interaction, and promote active recreation. Through the policy guidance in this section, the County commits to reversing community deterioration and improving other conditions detrimental to health, healing, and personal and property safety within neighborhoods. Montalvin Park provides amenities for residents in West County. Goal SC-2 Policies SC-P2.1 Welcome redevelopment and clean-up of undesirable uses and activities, such as highly polluting industries, and support uses that have a positive impact on community well-being. SC-P2.2 Encourage development, preservation, and reinvestment that strengthen the unique character of each unincorporated community and advance community and neighborhood resilience. Ensure that future private and public projects provide infrastructure, parks and playgrounds, complete streets, trees and landscaping, streetscapes, signage, and sustainable building design that reflect and improve the character of the community, along with long-term maintenance mechanisms to ensure continued benefit from the improvements into the future. SC-P2.3 Within established communities, complete construction of sidewalks and crosswalks and encourage neighborhood design and development that supports safe walking, biking, and other micro-mobility options, convenient Goal SC-2 Safe, welcoming neighborhoods that support physical activity and a healthy environment for all residents. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -13 access to services and transit, and opportunities for local shopping. SC-P2.4 Provide functional civic space and well-maintained public amenities near high-volume transit hubs. Each hub area should project a positive visual image, a strong and unique identity, and a safe, inviting environment for pedestrians and passengers. SC-P2.5 Promote creation of community focal points and gathering places. SC-P2.6 Leverage community-specific natural features, such as creeks, shorelines, and trails, to strengthen community identity and connect residents to nature. SC-P2.7 Encourage land uses and activities that reflect and enrich the history and cultural heritage of each unincorporated community. SC-P2.8 Stimulate investment in communities by using CEQA infill exemptions to expedite environmental review and reduce project costs. SC-P2.9 Implement principles of universal and barrier-free design so that people of all physical abilities can enjoy mobility and accessibility in their communities. SC-P2.10 Empower residents of all ages and abilities to volunteer toward improving conditions in Contra Costa County and maintain a culture within County government that supports and celebrates such volunteerism. Actions SC-A2.1 Study the feasibility of implementing an amortization process to relocate or eliminate non-conforming land uses, with a focus on public nuisances and uses that pose threats to public health and safety. See the Land Use Element for additional policies and actions on community design that supports active transportation. See the Transportation Element for policies and actions on pedestrian and bicycle safety, Safe Routes to Schools, and access to public transit. See the Public Facilities and Services Element for policies and actions on equitable access to parks and recreation areas. Access to Health Services While genetics and lifestyle choices affect health, so does access to quality, affordable medical care and health services. The county is served by nine hospitals: one in West County, six in Central County, and two in East County. This discrepancy is felt especially by West County residents, who throughout 3 -14 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element the General Plan update process expressed worry and frustration about long emergency response times and the lack of nearby medical facilities. Furthermore, even when these facilities are nearby, they can be especially difficult for seniors, people with disabilities, and other vulnerable populations to access due to gaps in the transit network. The policy guidance in this section responds to community concerns by promoting access to comprehensive health services throughout the county. Goal SC-3 Policies SC-P3.1 Provide all communities with sufficient and equitable access to adequate healthcare and behavioral health facilities and services. SC-P3.2 Pursue feasible opportunities to co-locate healthcare services with other County services within new or substantially renovated County facilities. SC-P3.3 Support and encourage provision of paratransit, public transit, and other transportation services to neighborhood and regional healthcare facilities to meet identified gaps in service. SC-P3.4 Welcome establishment of medical clinics, behavioral health facilities, and pharmacies in Impacted Communities. Actions SC-A3.1 Welcome establishment of medical clinics, behavioral health facilities, and pharmacies in Impacted Communities. SC-A3.2SC-A3.1 Streamline permitting processes for healthcare facilities to reduce barriers to their establishment in Impacted Communities. SC-A3.3SC-A3.2 Continue collaborating with neighboring jurisdictions to assess and address issues related to capacity and access to emergency, acute, and preventative/primary healthcare services, especially in the West County region. Goal SC-3 Convenient access to comprehensive, co-located health services so all residents can access the physical and behavioral healthcare they need. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -15 Access to Healthy Food Healthy food is one of the best tools to combat obesity and chronic diseases like diabetes. Nutrition influences not only the incidence of these health conditions, but also school achievement, job attainment, and quality of life generally. When the only food options in a neighborhood are small convenience stores offering pre-packaged goods and restaurants sell fast food (i.e., what’s known as a “food desert”), it can be difficult to eat healthy. This becomes even more challenging when residents lack easy access to transportation, which can be common for vulnerable populations like children, seniors, people with disabilities, and people with low incomes. Grocery stores and markets that carry fresh foods, farmers’ markets, farm stands, and community gardens are all outlets that can increase neighborhood access to healthy food options. Urban agriculture (i.e., urban land used to grow crops or raise animals for food) can be another way to provide healthier food options. Reclaiming vacant land for urban agriculture can provide even more community benefits by bringing life and activity back to neglected areas. Locating urban farms in areas lacking access to fresh, healthy foods can expand opportunities for residents to eat healthy and improve overall community well-being. Farmers markets provide access to fresh, seasonal produce. 3 -16 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element Goal SC-4 Policies SC-P4.1 Encourage planting of home gardens and food- producing plants and trees on private property in urban areas. Encourage partnerships between property owners and gleaning and stewardship programs to harvest and maintain edible plantings. NZE SC-P4.2 Encourage all new residential development to incorporate community gardens into the project design and require incorporation of community gardens for projects that meet the criteria established through Action SC-A4.2. SC-P4.3 Encourage urban agriculture, including urban farms and community gardens with collectively shared and managed plots, and demonstration and educational gardens operated by community organizations and educational institutions. Allow associated, limited on-site sales, processing facilitiesof value-added products, and complementary agricultural activities when compatible with adjacent uses. SC-P4.4 Support programs administered by water or wastewater service providers that increase the availability of recycled water for urban agriculture and landscaping through self- fill stations and similar facilities. Actions SC-A4.1 Amend the urban agriculture provisions in County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to address the following: (a) Zoning districts where urban agriculture is allowed. (b) Permitting requirements. (c) Development and performance standards. (d) Environmentally safe and sustainable practices. (e) Sale of crops and value-added products. (f) Animal husbandry. (g) Disposal of food waste and agricultural byproducts. SC-A4.2 Amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to add a requirement for certain projects to incorporate community gardens into the project design. As part of this process, identify a threshold for triggering this requirement, considering project type, size, and location, and establish standards for garden size and design. Consider the unique needs of Impacted Communities when developing these regulations. Goal SC-4 Support and expand small-scale food production and urban agriculture in urban areas, including growing, processing, and distributing fresh food. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -17 SC-A4.3 Amend County Ordinance Code Title 4 – Health and Safety to allow food trucks within certain designated areas and on private property with special permits under Title 8. Goal SC-5 Policies SC-P5.1 Increase access to fresh food in Impacted Communities by encouraging grocery stores, and urban agriculture, farmers’ markets, and neighborhood kitchens on vacant or underutilized lands. Treat such uses as community benefits in and of themselves. SC-P5.2 Maximize multimodal access to fresh food in Impacted Communities, prioritizing micro-mobility and pedestrian access, by encouraging grocery stores, healthy corner stores, community gardens, and outdoor markets at key transit nodes and within transit-oriented developments. SC-P5.3 Provide temporary, and possibly permanent, access to County facilities and land for farmers’ markets and community gardens, especially in Impacted Communities. Actions SC-A5.1 Inventory and map food deserts in the county. As part of the inventory, account for walking, micro-mobility, and transit access. SC-A5.2 Amend the County Ordinance Code and/or procedures to streamline permitting processes for grocery stores and markets in Impacted Communities and food deserts. SC-A5.3 Develop incentives to attract grocery stores, markets, and establishments selling fresh produce, preferably locally grown, in areas with poor access to fresh food. SC-A5.4 Every five years beginning in 2025, review the Alcoholic Beverage Sales Commercial Activities Ordinance to ensure it protects Impacted Communities from experiencing disproportionate concentrations of, and impacts from, new bars and liquor stores. To support implementation of this ordinance, set up and maintain a shared data system between the Health Services and Conservation and Development departments that Goal SC-5 Convenient access to fresh, healthy, and affordable food in Impacted Communities. 3 -18 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element identifies the location of current establishments, along with information about public safety and health. SC-A5.5 Study the feasibility of restrictingpreventing fast-food restaurants from locating near schools, parks, and other places where children normally gather. HEALTHY HOMES Access to safe, sanitary housing is a fundamental part of strong, healthy, and just communities. With many county residents struggling to afford housing, and often dependent on a landlord’s willingness to make improvements, people end up living in unsanitary or substandard homes or not having a stable home at all. For example, while lead-based paint was banned federally in 1978, there are still older homes in Contra Costa County that pose lead risks to children, especially in Impacted Communities (see Figur e SC-5). Poor home conditions can adversely impact a resident’s health from things like toxic building materials, pests and vermin, water intrusion, mold, exposure to climate variations, and poor air quality. Homes that lack air conditioning and air filtration can expose residents to extreme heat, wildfire smoke, and other air pollution, especially if they need to keep windows open for temperature control. In addition, some households may be overcrowded as families double or triple up to minimize housing costs. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -19 FIGURE SC-5 CHILDREN’S LEAD RISK FROM HOUSING RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE 3 -20 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element Aging houses may qualify for rehabilitation through the County’s Neighborhood Preservation and Weatherization Programs. The County currently provides programs to support healthy homes, including the Weatherization Program, the Asthma Initiative, the Neighborhood Preservation Program, and the Mortgage Credit Certificate Program, and connects residents to other housing resources. In addition, the Contra Costa Housing Authority, a separate public agency in Contra Costa County, provides rental subsidies and manages and develops affordable housing for low-income families, seniors, and people with disabilities. Contra Costa County’s Housing Element, another Element of this General Plan, addresses a broader spectrum of housing issues and fulfills State housing law requirements for general plans. Goal SC-6 Policies SC-P6.1 Ensure that future improvements in Impacted Communities will not result in a net loss of affordable housing or significant preventable displacement of residents. SC-P6.2 Prompt owners of substandard housing units in Impacted Communities to repair and rehabilitate their buildings. SC-P6.3 Coordinate with residents of Impacted Communities, the Housing Authority of Contra Costa County, affordable housing developers, community land trusts, and housing advocates to transition vacant and underutilized land in Impacted Communities into affordable and transitional housing and shared equity models. This should include development of various types of innovative housing products and homeownership opportunities to help residents overcome past exclusionary practices and build intergenerational wealth. Goal SC-6 Universal access to safe and sanitary homes. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -21 SC-P6.4 Support voluntary replacementremoval of natural gas infrastructure and appliances infrom homes and replacement with electric appliances. Actions SC-A6.1 Obtain additional funding for, and address barriers to participation in, the County’s Weatherization Program and similar programs like the Contra Costa Asthma Initiative and Neighborhood Preservation Program for extremely low-, very low-, and low-income homeowners, seniors, landlords, and renters. Focus these efforts on homes in Impacted Communities, particularly rental and multiple- family housing. SC-A6.2 Create a bulk buying program or revolving loan fund that allows people to purchase energy-efficient electric appliances (air conditioners, fans, air purifiers, heaters, stoves, ovens, etc.) and other items that increase building efficiency at wholesale prices or minimal cost, possibly with zero-percent interest financing, to increase energy efficiency and replace hazardous appliances. Work with volunteer groups that help people install and dispose of air conditioners and other electrical appliances if they are unable to do so themselves, focusing on Impacted Communities and other areas with high concentrations of vulnerable people. Consider augmenting energy - efficiency programs to reduce electricity use and help offset the cost of operating electrical appliances. SC-A6.3 Partner with local solar energy providers to enact a solar group buy program to purchase solar panels and battery storage in bulk for installation in Impacted Communities, including establishment and subsidization of community solar programs that supply electricity to multiple consumers from a single photovoltaic solar location. The program should include an educational component to inform the community about the benefits and process of solar installation and give them the opportunity to enroll in the program at a discounted rate. SC-A6.4 Expand the County’s first-time homebuyer program to provide more information and assistance, prioritizing outreach in Impacted Communities to spread awareness of the program. See the Housing Element for a more comprehensive discussion of housing needs, homelessness, renter protection measures, and programs to affirmatively further fair housing. ARTS AND CULTURE Arts and culture play an integral role in Contra Costa County, as they enrich the lives of residents, visitors, and businesses alike. Artistic and cultural expression as present in historic buildings, residents’ oral histories, and ongoing community traditions and celebrations contribute to an individual and collective sense of identity and pride. Every resident should have available easily accessible opportunities for cultural development, expression, and involvement. Art can be rooted in history and a catalyst for change in a culture. As a key driver of economic development and tourism, 3 -22 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element arts and culture shape the community’s creative workforce and future leaders by promoting skills such as creativity, innovation, and critical thinking. By working together to uphold and promote the value of engaging with arts and culture, we can strengthen local economies and create more vibrant, diverse, and resilient communities. Contra Costa County supports art and culture through the Arts Council, a public-private partnership between the County and a nonprofit organization that also works in conjunction with the California Arts Council. A mural brings life and color to this North Richmond building. Goal SC-7 Policies SC-P7.1 Support development of cultural facilities and programs that are physically and financially accessible to all, with emphasis on bringing these to Impacted Communities. SC-P7.2 Pursue arts and cultural investments as a tool for economic development, especially in Impacted Communities. SC-P7.3 Support artists, community groups, and volunteer organizations in implementing temporary and permanent public art programs, especially in Impacted Communities. SC-P7.4 Incorporate public art or artistic elements into County capital projects whenever feasible. Work with residents and the Arts Council to ensure works of public art are appropriate for the communities where they are installed. Goal SC-7 Vibrant communities with strong identities reflected in public art and cultural events. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -23 Actions SC-A7.1 Amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to establish a public art requirement for new development and funding mechanisms to create and maintain public art. SC-A7.2 Partner with recycling centers to establish artist-in- residence programs to support art education while encouraging residents to repurpose unwanted items and conserve natural resources. ECONOMIC VITALITY AND EMPOWERMENT Workforce Development To attract new businesses and retain those already here, the county must offer a workforce that possesses the education and skills employers need. The County supports economic and workforce development through the Workforce Development Board (WDB) staffed by the Employment and Human Services Department. WDB members are appointed by the County Board of Supervisors and include local business owners, economic development leaders, education professionals, labor advocates, community- based organization staff, and public agency representatives. The County leverages the WDB and other economic development agencies and advocates to ensure that Contra Costa County remains economically competitive within the greater San Francisco Bay Area. Workforce development is especially critical in Impacted Communities, which have higher rates of poverty and higher percentages of the adult population without a high school degree, as shown in Figures SC-6 and SC-7. By partnering with educational institutions and programs, employers, unions, and trade associations to support job-skills training and recruitment from the local workforce, while also working to diversify the local economy, the County can help increase opportunities for residents in Impacted Communities to find local jobs that offer a living wage. 3 -24 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element The historic C&H Sugar Refinery provides local jobs and bolsters the Crockett economy. (Community-submitted photo) Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -25 FIGURE SC-6 POVERTY RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE 3 -26 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element FIGURE SC-7 ADULTS WITHOUT A HIGH SCHOOL DEGREE RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -27 Goal SC-8 Policies SC-P8.1 Support schools, training programs, the WDB, and other institutions whose mission is to develop and enhance local workforce skills, including training and apprenticeship programs. SC-P8.2 Leverage opportunities to pursue workforce development, job training and re-training programs, and public-private partnerships that support economic growth. Support career pathway programs hosted by various County departments and encourage County staff to participate as mentors. SC-P8.3 Welcome businesses, especially family-sustaining, locally hiring, sustainable businesses, that provide essential goods and services in Impacted Communities, including food stores with fresh produce, healthcare, childcare, pharmacies, and other retailers, while discouraging predatory lenders, liquor stores, tobacco and cannabis retail stores, dollar stores, and fast-food restaurants. SC-P8.4 Promote entrepreneurship, innovation, and locally owned businesses and enterprises, especially ethnic, immigrant, and Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) entrepreneurship, for the purpose of improving economic self-sufficiency and stability, including through outreach efforts to local small business owners while minimizing permitting barriers. SC-P8.5 Encourage more daycares, preschools, and early childhood development centers to make childcare more accessible and affordable for working families. Actions SC-A8.1 Establish a First Source Hiring Program encouragingrequiring developers, contractors, and employers to make good-faith efforts toward employing the local construction workforce to construct and operate their facilities, with emphasis on residents of Impacted Communities and those who are economically disadvantaged. Goal SC-8 Access to and expansion of high-quality job training, job opportunities, and economic resources so that residents in Impacted Communities can acquire safe jobs, earn a living wage to support their families, and build shared prosperity. 3 -28 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element SC-A8.2 Partner with school districts, community colleges, community organizations, large employers, trade associations, unions, and job training centers to support enhanced job-skills training, recruitment programs and services, and childcare services to support the county’s workforce, especially workers in Impacted Communities. Work with experienced groups to ensure that programs will be properly staffed and funded. Training and intervention strategies should reduce barriers to employment for youth, formerly incarcerated residents, and residents with limited English proficiency, and should support a just transition from a fossil-fuel reliant economy by re-training displaced workers with skills for living-wage jobs in new, environmentally sustainable industries. SC-A8.3 Explore the feasibility of establishing a revolving loan fund, grant program, or business incubator that supports small business formation and expansion in Impacted Communities. Connect to industries such as advanced manufacturing, biomedical/biotech, food, transportation technology, and clean technology that support an economic transition from fossil fuels. SC-A8.4 Develop and sufficiently fund a program to offer one-on- one support to small businesses in Impacted Communities. Through this program, provide guidance related to available grants and other forms of financing, access to innovation, access to emerging industries and markets, and mentorship. SC-A8.5 Explore use of existing federal and State government economic development programs, such as the “Opportunity Zone” program, “HUB Zone” program, and contracting designations, as a means to generate funding for transit, housing, and capital improvements, while attracting private investment. Business and Innovation Enhancing Contra Costa County’s success as an economic hub depends on retaining, supporting, and attracting a diverse range of businesses that will sustain the local economy despite changing market forces. Petroleum refineries have been Ssome of the largest employers and strongest economic drivers in the unincorporated county have traditionally been in the petroleum refining industry, for over 100 years. butHoweverWhile demand for refined products remains significant and will persist until replacement technologies exist for current uses, the long-term future of these large facilities is uncertain, and two of the four Contra Costa refineries have begun transitioneding their operations as global and national energy trends shift toward carbon-free and renewable energy sources. Going forward, the county’s economy should be centered on sustainable, clean, and green businesses and industries that provide living-wage jobs while protecting community health and the environment. Less than 10 percent of the jobs in the county are in unincorporated areas, so coordination with incorporated cities is an important component of the County’s economic development efforts. The Northern Waterfront Economic Development Initiative is a regional cluster-based economic development strategy, developed collaboratively between the County and seven partner cities. The Initiative intends to create 18,000 new jobs along Contra Costa County’s Northern Waterfront, which extends along the shoreline from Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -29 Hercules to Oakley and down to Brentwood, by 2035. The Initiative is focused on propelling the advanced manufacturing economic sector and investing in human capital to promote equitable economic growth. The State has designated the area as a Green Empowerment Zone, which will provide additional tools to implement the Initiative’s goals. Additionally, the County worked with the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG)/Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) to designate Priority Production Areas (PPAs) in Bay Point and the North Concord/Pacheco/Vine Hill area. PPAs identify clusters of industrial businesses and prioritize them for economic development investments and protection from competing land uses. The Green Empowerment Zone and PPAs are depicted in Figure SC-8. 3 -30 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element FIGURE SC-8 GREEN EMPOWERMENT ZONE AND PRIORITY PRODUCTION AREAS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -31 Shipping along the Northern Waterfront is an important part of the local economy. (Community-submitted photo) Goal SC-9 Policies SC-P9.1 Work collaboratively with cities and other local agencies to leverage Contra Costa County’s competitive assets and elevate the county’s role in the economic and cultural growth of the Bay Area and California. SC-P9.2 Position Contra Costa County to be a hub of production and employment for industries that spur economic growth and innovation in the transition toward a zero-emission economy. SC-P9.3 Support business retention, expansion, and attraction efforts that diversify and strengthen the economy with special emphasis on businesses and industries that provide living-wage jobs, invest in the community, hire from the local workforce, and embrace sustainability. SC-P9.4 Maintain a well-balanced regulatory environment that facilitates business investment and expansion while addressing community concerns about potential impacts. SC-P9.5 Continue to support and expand local tourism. Emphasize memorable experiences available in Contra Costa County, such as agritourism, and recreational opportunities offered by unique natural features such as the Delta and Mount Diablo. SC-P9.6 Recognize agriculture as an important part of the County’s economy and maintain conditions that support its ongoing economic viability. Goal SC-9 Sustain a resilient, diversified economy that supports existing businesses, attracts new businesses, and encourages investment and innovation while fostering economic opportunities for all residents. 3 -32 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element SC-P9.7 Strengthen the viability of the Northern Waterfront as a dynamic economic asset and destination recreational area. Work with partner agencies to support beneficial, environmentally sustainable investment in this area. SC-P9.8 Support formation of the Green Empowerment Zone for the Northern Waterfront area and development of designated PPAs. SC-P9.9 Maximize Byron Airport’s potential as a hub of aviation technology and innovation. Actions SC-A9.1 Adopt an Economic Development Strategy. The strategy should define a vision for the county’s economy, identify and target suitable growth industries, and facilitate different types of economic development and employment growth in targeted areas. SC-A9.2 Implement the Northern Waterfront Economic Development Initiative, including business attraction efforts aimed at biomedical and life science businesses, food and beverage processing, advanced materials and diversified manufacturing, advanced transportation technology, and clean technology. SC-A9.3 NEW ACTION Nominate the Phillips 66 San Francisco (Rodeo) Refinery and surrounding industrial areas, including the site of the former Phillips 66 Carbon Plant in Franklin Canyon, as a Priority Production Area. SC-A9.3SC-A9.4 Evaluate commercial and industrial regulations and permitting practices on an ongoing basis to ensure that they: (a) Address contemporary uses and activities. (b) Promote compatibility between new and legacyexisting uses. (c) Avoid creating unnecessary barriers that hinder economic expansionprosperity, investment, and sustainable growth. SC-A9.4SC-A9.5 Expand the Small Business Assistance Program, working collaboratively with technical assistance service providers. SC-A9.5SC-A9.6 Explore the feasibility of establishing a small and micro- business fee-waiver program. SC-A9.6SC-A9.7 Expand the County’s participation in the State’s Green Business Program. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -33 See the Open Space, Conservation, and Working Lands Element for policies about agritourism, solar and wind farms, and sustaining the agricultural economy. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Community involvement is key to achieving the goals presented throughout this General Plan. Participation in County planning efforts brings diverse viewpoints and values into the decision-making process and helps ensure that County actions benefit the broadest range of people possible. Inclusive, participatory processes lead to better-informed solutions and build mutual understanding and trust between local government officials and the public they serve. Equitable and effective community engagement is also foundational to environmental justice. By elevating the voices of people who have traditionally been left out of the planning process, we can learn from their wisdom and experience and begin correcting past wrongs. The County aims to create strong, collaborative partnerships between government and community members, proactively addressing challenges and promoting inclusion as a core value. Residents in Byron Bay Point share their vision for the future of their community. Goal SC-10 Policies SC-P10.1 Strengthen public trust through transparency, accessibility, and accountability in applying and implementing this General Plan and associated planning documents, such as the County Zoning Code. Sc-10 Effective decision making that seeks and incorporates the voices of county residents. 3 -34 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element SC-P10.2 Build positive relationships between residents, businesses, and County officials. SC-P10.3 Expand opportunities to engage with County government. Provide residents with convenient access to information in the predominant languages spoken in their community. SC-P10.4 Make appropriate County-owned facilities available to nonprofit civic organizations and neighborhood groups for meetings and events. SC-P10.5 Support community-driven/community-led initiatives that work toward achieving the community objectives identified in the Community Profiles. Actions SC-A10.1 Amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to improve accessibility by: (a) Using formatting tools and techniques, such as matrices and tables, that streamline the document. (b) Incorporating diagrams and other graphics to reduce reliance on text. (c) Using clear, unambiguous, and non-technical language whenever possible. Goal SC-11 Policies SC-P11.1 Engage with residents of Impacted Communities in a genuine, meaningful, and respectful manner. SC-P11.2 Notify and engage community members, organizations, and leaders when County planning decisions on major projects are being considered in or near Impacted Communities. Conduct meaningful outreach and engagement with Impacted Communities as follows: (a) Notify Impacted Communities of the existence of major projects early in the planning process. (b) Prepare public notices in the predominant language(s) spoken in the community and provide interpretation services at meetings as needed. (c) Make public notices and other important documents easy to understand and available in print at local libraries, community centers, or other gathering places. (d) Use a wide array of methods to inform community members of opportunities to participate, such as the SC-11 Residents empowered with strong voices to communicate needs and solutions. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -35 County website, social media, texts, banners, mailers, and flyers. (e) Use supplemental outreach approaches that are appropriate for the participating community. (f) Schedule, format, and locate community workshops and meetings to be convenient for community members, both in person and online, whenever possible. (g) Use social media, virtual meeting platforms, recorded meetings, and other communication techniques to assist those without time or ability to attend public meetings. (h) Consider the economic, gender, age, and racial diversity of the affected population when developing outreach strategies. (i) Clearly explain potential adverse impacts of a proposed project in plain language that is easily understood by the participating community. SC-P11.3 Provide community engagement and information access options for people in Impacted Communities without access to computers or internet. Use facilities such as public libraries and community centers as a resource for making information and technology available. SC-P11.4 Strive for more diverse representation on County boards, commissions, committees, and similar bodies to better reflect the demographics and varying viewpoints of county residents, with greater efforts to engage under- represented populations. SC-P11.5 Overtly acknowledge public participation and input offered at hearings conducted by the County Zoning Administrator, County Planning Commission, and other bodies making land use decisions. Actions SC-A11.1 Designate staff in departments that routinely interact with residents of Impacted Communities, such as Conservation and Development, Public Works, and Health Services, as liaisons to each Impacted Community. SC-A11.2 Hold semi-annual public meetings in each Impacted Community, including the County Supervisor representing the community and representatives from the full spectrum of County departments, to hear from residents of these communities, and use that input to inform the County’s annual budgeting process. Provide interpretation services at these meetings. SC-A11.3 Identify communities with a significant number of non- English-speaking households and develop resources and strategies for better engagement. 3 -36 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element SC-A11.4 Develop centralized outreach services to support all County departments with language interpretation, translation services for written documents, and sign language services for public meetings. SC-A11.5 Review procedures employed by the various County departments for collecting and disseminating data related to community health, safety, and economic vitality and study the feasibility of making additional data available to the public through accessible online tools. SC-A11.6 Amend County Ordinance Code Title 2 – Administration to increase the public notification distance for hearings concerning refineries and other large stationary sources (i.e., any stationary source that emits, or has the potential to emit, 40 tons per year or more of nitrous oxides or sulfur dioxide; 15 tons per year of coarse particulate matter; 10 tons per year of fine particulate matter; and/or 200 tons per year of carbon dioxide) from 300 to 3,000 feet. See the Public Facilities and Services Element for policies that prioritize public investment in capital improvements in Impacted Communities. STRONGER COMMUNITIES ELEMENT PERFORMANCE MEASURES To track progress in achieving the major goals of this Element, every five years, the County will collect data to assess its performance against the following measures. Progress will be tracked relative to the prior performance review and the baseline year of 2024. Based on the findings from the five-year review, the County may adjust policies, actions, or the approach to implementing them to improve performance, as needed. ● Improved health outcomes of residents in Impacted Communities. ● Increased percentage of homes that are within a half-mile of a grocery store or other entity that offers fresh food. ● Reduced number of substandard homes that pose a health risk to residents in Impacted Communities. ● Increased amount of support provided to businesses in Impacted Communities through the County’s small business assistance programs. ● Reduced rate of poverty in Impacted Communities. COMMUNITY PROFILES Unincorporated communities in Contra Costa County are at different stages of development. For many, the residents’ vision for the future looks much like the community is today, while residents in other communities are more interested in transformation and evolution. Given the diversity of people, built environments, social and economic conditions, and natural landscapes across the county, this General Plan includes community-scale policy guidance in individual Community Profiles. The Community Profiles are intended to close gaps in countywide policies by addressing issues and opportunities that apply only to that specific community. Each Community Profile includes: ● Contextual information summarizing local character, setting, land use patterns, demographics, history, natural resources, natural hazards, community vulnerabilities, and other key data. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element 3 -37 ● A summary of the planned land uses in the community, as mapped in Figure LU-1, the General Plan Land Use Map. ● Guiding principles that formulate a vision for the future of the community, plus policies and actions to support that vision. The Community Profiles for Impacted Communities have an additional section that highlights environmental justice issues through maps and charts. As explained in the section of this Element on environmental justice, the CalEnviroScreen data that identifies Impacted Communities will change over time, so the County will periodically update the map of Impacted Communities and associated community profiles and policy guidance, as called for in Action SC-A1.7. There are 22 Community Profiles presented in this section. These communities were identified through public input and collaboration among County staff and include communities with an individual identity and local concerns that are unique to their residents and businesses. They include: ● Alamo/Castle Hill ● Alhambra Valley/Reliez Valley/Briones ● Bay Point ● Bethel Island ● Byron ● Canyon ● Clyde ● Contra Costa Centre ● Crockett ● Diablo ● Discovery Bay ● East Richmond Heights ● El Sobrante ● Kensington ● Knightsen ● Montara Bay/Rollingwood (i.e., Montalvin Manor, Tara Hills, Bayview, and Rollingwood) ● North Richmond ● Pacheco ● Port Costa ● Rodeo ● Saranap/Parkmead ● Vine Hill/Mountain View The County met with residents of each of these communities at least once during the General Plan update process to ensure each profile articulates the shared values, priorities, and aspirations for their future. 3 -38 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Stronger Communities Element This page intentionally left blank. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element 4 -1 4 LAND USE ELEMENT Land use patterns in Contra Costa County play an important role in defining the county’s character and that of its individual communities. Approximately 46 percent of the unincorporated land is set aside for conservation, recreation, and watershed protection purposes. Another 38 percent is devoted to rural and agricultural uses, such as grazing land, row crops, orchards, and vineyards. The remaining area includes public and institutional facilities, like schools, hospitals, fire stations, and airports; neighborhoods of condominiums, apartments, townhomes, mobile homes, and single -family residences; commercial development ranging from urban shopping centers to riverside restaurants; and industrial uses, such as refineries, small- and mid-size manufacturers, and distribution centers. Many of these land uses are expected to evolve over the coming decades as new housing types, business models, and energy sources emerge. As this occurs, the policy guidance in this Element will also evolve to build on community ass ets, address opportunities and challenges, and improve quality of life for everyone through thoughtful land use planning. The Land Use Element is divided into the following four sections: ● The Land Use Designations and Map section establishes regulations and standards for development in each land use designation shown on the General Plan Land Use Map. ● The Orderly, Well-Planned Growth section includes policy guidance to balance development and conservation. ● The Specific Land Uses section includes policy guidance tailored to residential, commercial, mixed-use, industrial, rural, agricultural, and open space uses. ● The Land Use Element Performance Measures describe how the County will track its progress in achieving some of the major objectives expressed in this Element. This General Plan highlights policies and actions that address four major themes that serve as a framework for the Plan. For the reader’s ease, policies and actions related to these themes are identified throughout the General Plan using the following icons. The policies and actions related to each theme are also compiled in Appendix A. See Chapter 1 for more information about each theme. Community Health Environmental Justice Economic Development Sustainability LAND USE DESIGNATIONS AND MAP State planning law requires the Land Use Element to designate the general distribution, location, and extent of the various land uses covered by this General Plan. Table LU-1 lists the 22 land use designations the County uses in its land use planning. Each designation is generally described and the standards for allowed residential density and intensity of nonresidential use are stated. The land use designation descriptions are not intended to be exhaustive. Communities and uses evolve and it is not possible to anticipate every use that could be proposed over the life of this General Plan. The key factor in determining whether a particular land use is appropriate or 4 -2 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element allowable in a particular designation is whether the use supports or conflicts with the designation’s overarching intent. Table LU-1 also defines the relationship between the land use designations in this General Plan and the zoning districts enumerated in the County Zoning Ordinance (County Ordinance Code Title 8). Each land use designation categorizes various zoning districts as “consistent” or “potentially consistent.” Those categorized as “consistent” are presumed to be compatible with the land use designation because the permittable uses and development standards (lot sizes, height limitations, setbacks, parking ratios, landscaping requirements, etc.) align with the designation’s intent and purpose. Zoning districts categorized as “potentially consistent” may be compatible with the General Plan designation depending on location , the nature of projects being proposed, and other considerations. Properties may only be zoned or rezoned to districts that are consistent or potentially consistent with the underlying land use designation. Standards for allowed residential density and intensity of nonresidential uses are described below. These standards reference gross acreage, which is the acreage of the entire parcel designated for the use, and net acreage, which is the area remaining after land is dedicated for rights -of-way, easements, and other public or common uses. ● Residential densities are expressed in terms of dwelling units per net acre, which is the area remaining after land is dedicated for rights -of- way, easements, and other public or common uses. As a rule of thumb, the County assumes net acreage to be 75 percent of the gross for single-family residential projects and 80 percent of the gross for multiple-family residential and mixed-use projects. A project’s actual density is calculated during the development review process and must fall within the density range for the applicable land use designation unless State laws, policies within this General Plan, or zoning regulations allow for higher or lower densities. This illustration shows different densities for residential development on similarly sized lots. This graphic is intended only to show the relative differences between residential developments at various densities and does not represent a density standard for this General Plan. ● Development intensities for nonresidential uses are expressed in terms of floor area ratio (FAR), which is the ratio of gross building floor square footage to gross land area, expressed as a decimal number. When a building’s square footage is equal to the area of the parcel it occupies, the FAR is 1.0. FARs are lower in suburban areas, where buildings are shorter and often surrounded with parking and landscaping, than in urban areas, where buildings are taller and occupy more of their respective parcels. Nonresidential development cannot exceed the FAR for the applicable land use designation. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element 4 -3 This illustration shows how various building configurations represent different FARs on similarly sized lots. This graphic is intended only to show the relative differences in FAR and does not represent an intensity standard for this General Plan. The General Plan Land Use Map is presented in Figure LU -1. This map shows the distribution of the land use designations listed in Table LU -1. In most cases the designations reflect uses already in existence. However, in some places the designations are aspirational or intended to be catalysts for change. A prime example is the application of mixed-use designations to aging, single-use commercial areas. In these instances, the designation is intended to promote more efficient use of the land and encourage reinvestment by increasing residential density and expanding options for development. The land use map is not meant to be static; amendments are expected in response to evolving community priorities and needs, shifting economic trends, technological advances, and other societal changes affecting land use. ORDERLY, WELL-PLANNED GROWTH Balanced Development and Conservation Contra Costa County was an early implementer of smart growth and compact development principles, embodied in the 65/35 Land Preservation Standard (65/35 Standard) and Urban Limit Line (ULL). These land use controls, which are integral to long-range planning in the county, were established by voter approval of Measure C-1990 and their necessity was reaffirmed through voter approval of Measure L-2006. Contra Costa residents continue to recognize the importance of balancing development to meet the community’s housing, jobs, and service needs with protection of the county’s natural environment and resources. 65/35 Land Preservation Standard One of two fundamental components of Measures C-1990 and L-2006 is the 65/35 Standard, which limits the footprint of urban development by restricting urban land use designations to no more than 35 percent of the land in the county and requiring at least 65 percent of the land to be designated for non-urban uses. Table LU-2 indicates which County land use designations are urban and non-urban. The 65/35 Standard does not regulate land use intensity. All urban land use designations count equally against the 35 percent limit regardless of how, or even if, the land to which they are applied is developed. Likewise, all non-urban designations count equally toward the 65 percent requirement regardless of development. The 65/35 Standard operates on a countywide basis, accounting for urban and non-urban designations within the 19 cities as well as the unincorporated county. As of 20234, approximately 28 percent of the land countywide has been designated for urban uses. 4 -4 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element TABLE LU-1 LAND USE DESIGNATIONS RESIDENTIAL VERY-LOW DENSITY │ RVL Appropriate for transitions between urban development and agricultural/rural areas. Also appropriate for constrained sites where reduced densities are justified. Typically includes detached single-family units on lots 1 acre or larger and small-scale agricultural activities. Consistent Zoning: R-100, R-65, R-40 Potentially Consistent Zoning: All A- districts, P-1 Density ≤1 FAR N/A RESIDENTIAL LOW DENSITY │ RL Appropriate for low-density, predominantly single-family residential development. Typically includes detached single-family units on lots approximately 15,000 square feet to 1 acre in size and limited nonresidential uses that serve and support nearby homes. Small-scale agricultural activities may be compatible on larger lots. Consistent Zoning: R-40, R-20, R-15, R-12 Potentially Consistent Zoning: P-1 Density 1-3 FAR N/A RESIDENTIAL LOW-MEDIUM DENSITY │ RLM Appropriate for moderate-density, predominantly single-family residential development. Typically includes detached single-family units on lots approximately 6,000 to 15,000 square feet and limited nonresidential uses that serve and support nearby homes. Duplexes and tripl exes may also be compatible. Consistent Zoning: R-12, R-10, R-7, R-6 Potentially Consistent Zoning: P-1 Density 3-7 FAR N/A RESIDENTIAL MEDIUM DENSITY │ RM Appropriate for higher-density single-family and low-density multiple-family residential development. Typically includes single-family units on lots approximately 2,500 to 6,000 square feet, duplexes, triplexes, townhouses, condominiums, apartments, and mobile home parks. Also includes limited nonresidential uses that serve and support nearby homes. Consistent Zoning: R-6, D-1, M-6, M-9, M-17 Potentially Consistent Zoning: P-1 Density 7-17 FAR N/A RESIDENTIAL MEDIUM-HIGH DENSITY │ RMH Appropriate for the highest-density single-family and medium-density multiple-family residential development. Typically includes single-family units on lots smaller than 2,500 square feet, tiny homes, fourplexes, townhouses, condominiums, apartments, and assisted living facilities. Also includes limited nonresidential uses that serve and support nearby homes. Consistent Zoning: M-17, M-29 Potentially Consistent Zoning: P-1 Density 17-30 FAR N/A RESIDENTIAL HIGH DENSITY │ RH Appropriate for higher-density, multiple-family development. Typically includes condominiums, apartments, and assisted living facilities. Also includes limited nonresidential uses that serve and support nearby homes. Consistent Zoning: None Potentially Consistent Zoning: P-1 Density 30-60 FAR N/A RESIDENTIAL VERY-HIGH DENSITY │ RVH Appropriate near transit stations, employment centers, and other locations where providing exceptionally high density is a priority. Typically includes condominiums, apartments, and micro-units. Also includes limited nonresidential uses that serve and support nearby homes. Consistent Zoning: None Potentially Consistent Zoning: P-1 Density 60-125 FAR N/A Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element 4 -5 RESIDENTIAL MAXIMUM DENSITY │ RX Reserved for unique projects providing the highest densities in the unincorporated county. Typically includes condominiums, apartments, and micro-units. Density is determined on a project-by-project basis. Also includes limited nonresidential uses that serve and support nearby homes. Consistent Zoning: None Potentially Consistent Zoning: P-1 Density 126≤ FAR N/A COMMERCIAL and OFFICE │ CO Allows for a full range of commercial and office uses. Typical uses include retail (neighborhood, community, and regional scale), personal and business services, lodging and hospitality services, entertainment venues, event spaces, shared co-workspaces, commercial kitchens, workforce training centers, and all kinds of medical, business, and professional offices. Consistent Zoning: C, C-B, N-B, R-B, A-O, O-1 Potentially Consistent Zoning: P-1 Density N/A FAR 1.0 Commercial 2.5 Office LIGHT INDUSTRY │ LI Allows for a range of low- to moderate-intensity industrial uses that when properly designed and operated may be established in proximity to residences and other sensitive receptors without sacrificing human health and safety or resulting in significant environmental impacts. Typically uses include light manufacturing, fabrication/assembly, processing, machinery repair, warehousing and storage, distribution, research and development, laboratories, incubators, workforce training centers, and ancillary or supportive retail and office uses. Consistent Zoning: L-I, C-M Potentially Consistent Zoning: A-O, P-1 Density N/A FAR 1.5 HEAVY INDUSTRY │ HI Allows for the most intense industrial land uses. Heavy industrial uses typically require significant acreage and direct access to deep water channels, rail lines, or freeways. Operations are often characterized by transport, storage, and use of large quantities of hazardous or noxious materials; significant emissions of pollutants, odors, noise, vibration, and light; and inherent risks to human health and safety and the environment. Typical us es include heavy manufacturing and processing (e.g., petroleum refining, chemical manufacturing, steel production), tank farms, marine terminals, rail yards, an d fossil fuel-fired power plants. Light industrial uses are also allowed within this designation. Consistent Zoning: H-I, L-I, C-M, W-3 Potentially Consistent Zoning: A-O, P-1 Density N/A FAR 0.67 Heavy Industry 1.5 Light Industry MIXED-USE LOW DENSITY │ MUL Allows for various housing types, including tiny homes, townhouses, condominiums, apartments, studios, live-work units, and micro-units, along with a wide range of neighborhood-serving retail, personal service, office, entertainment, and public uses. This designation is applied where a modest level of mixed-use development is appropriate, such as pedestrian-scale corridors, neighborhood nodes, and individual or small groups of parcels generally encompassing less than 1 acre. Consistent Zoning: N-B, C-B, R-B, A-O, O-1, M-6, M-9, M-17, M-29 Potentially Consistent Zoning: P-1 Density 10-30 FAR 1.0 MIXED-USE MEDIUM DENSITY │ MUM Allows for various housing types, including townhouses, condominiums, apartments, studios, live-work units, and micro-units, along with a wide range of retail, personal service, office, hospitality, entertainment, and public uses sized to serve nearby neighborhoods or the surrounding community. This designatio n is applied where moderate- to large-scale mixed-use development is appropriate, such as existing commercial or mixed-use cores of established communities, transitioning commercial areas (e.g., obsolete shopping centers), and individual or groups of parcels encompassing several ac res. Consistent Zoning: N-B, C-B, R-B, A-O, O-1 Potentially Consistent Zoning: P-1 Density 30-75 FAR 2.0 4 -6 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element MIXED-USE HIGH DENSITY │ MUH Allows for high-density residential complexes of all types, office towers, large hotels, convention spaces, and accompanying retail, personal service, entertainment, and public uses. This designation is applied where intense, urban-scale mixed-use development is appropriate, such as transit villages and employment centers. Consistent Zoning: N-B, C-B, R-B, A-O, O-1 Potentially Consistent Zoning: P-1 Density 75-125 FAR 4.0 MIXED-USE COMMUNITY-SPECIFIC DENSITY │ MUC Allows for various housing types, including tiny homes, townhouses, condominiums, apartments, studios, live-work units, and micro-units, along with a wide range of neighborhood- and community-serving retail, personal service, office, hospitality, entertainment, and public uses. Densities and FARs are specific to the communities where this designation is applied, as follows: Alamo 22-40 du/net acre, 1.75 FAR Montalvin Manor 17-35 du/net acre, 1.75 FAR Vine Hill 22-35 du/net acre, 1.75 FAR Bay Point 22-40 du/net acre, 1.75 FAR North Richmond 17-35 du/net acre, 2.0 FAR Crockett 17-27 du/net acre, 2.0 FAR Pacheco 22-40 du/net acre, 1.75 FAR Discovery Bay 17-35 du/net acre, 1.5 FAR Rodeo 17-35 du/net acre, 2.0 FAR El Sobrante 17-35 du/net acre, 1.75 FAR Saranap 22-40 du/net acre, 1.75 FAR Additional policy guidance related to the MUC designation may appear in the Community Profiles for these communities. Consistent Zoning: N-B, C-B, R-B, A-O, O-1, M-17, M-29 Potentially Consistent Zoning: P-1 Density Variable FAR Variable PUBLIC and SEMI-PUBLIC │ PS Appropriate for uses and facilities owned or operated by public entities or private entities serving the public. These include law enforcement and fire stations, schools, libraries, hospitals, water and sewage treatment plants, landfills, cemeteries, airports, and military installations. Also includes high-volume public and private transportation corridors (e.g., freeways, BART, railroads) and utility corridors. Consistent Zoning: All districts Potentially Consistent Zoning: None Density N/A FAR N/A AGRICULTURAL CORE │ AC Applied to approximately 11,900 acres between Brentwood, Discovery Bay, and Byron composed primarily of soils rated Class 1 or 2 per the National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Land Capability Classification. Much of the area under this designation is prime agricultural land that is actively farmed with intensive row crops, orchards, and vineyards. Agricultural production is the primary use in areas with this designation and takes precedent over other uses. Limited agricultural tourism activities that support the agricultural economy are consistent with this designation. “Ranchette” or estate-style residential development, and any other use that interferes with agricultural activities, is inconsistent with this designation. Consistent Zoning: A-4, A-40, A-80 Potentially Consistent Zoning: P-1 Density 1 unit/40 acres FAR N/A AGRICULTURAL LANDS │ AL Applied to agricultural areas composed primarily of soils rated Class 3 or lower per the National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Land Capability Classification. Most areas with this designation are non-irrigated, rural lands that may support grazing and dryland farming, though it also includes non-prime, productive agricultural lands. Other types of agricultural, open space, and non-urban uses are consistent with this designation when conducted in accordance with the County’s policies pertaining to agricultural areas. These include limited opportunities for recreation, lodging (farm stays, bed and breakfasts, etc.), food services (farm-to-table dining, farm stands, etc.), special events, and similar activities that support the county’s agricultural economy. Some land with this designation is within the Delta Primary Zone (DPZ) and may be used for recreation and other nonagricultural activities that are consistent with the Delta Protection Commission’s Land Use and Resource Management Plan for the Delta and the Delta Stewardship Council’s Delta Plan. Consistent Zoning: All A- districts Potentially Consistent Zoning: P-1 Density 1 unit/10 acres 1 unit/20 acres within DPZ FAR N/A Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element 4 -7 PARKS and RECREATION │ PR Applied to publicly- and privately-owned parks and similar outdoor spaces. Includes neighborhood and communitylocal parks in urban areas as well as federal, State, and regional parks and historic sites that are managed primarily for conservation purposes and provide active or passive recreational activities. Ancillary amenities such as visitor centers, event spaces, amusements/rides, and eateries that support or enhance the primary recreational use are consistent with this designation. Consistent Zoning: All R-, M-, and A- districts Potentially Consistent Zoning: P-1 Density 0.0 FAR N/A COMMERCIAL RECREATION │ CR Appropriate for privately-owned recreational uses where the primary activity is conducted outdoors, such as golf courses, recreational vehicle campgrounds, hunting clubs, and marinas. Ancillary commercial and service uses, as well as an on-site residential unit for a caretaker, harbor master, etc., are consistent with this designation. Consistent Zoning: A-2, A-3 Potentially Consistent Zoning: C, R-B, P-1 Density 0.0 FAR N/A RESOURCE CONSERVATION │ RC Applied to the watersheds of reservoirs owned by public utilities, mitigation banks, habitat restoration sites, ecologically significant or environmentally sensitive areas that are not within publicly-owned parkland, and hazardous or otherwise constrained areas that are unsuitable for development. Resource management, low-intensity agriculture, low-intensity recreation, and similar activities are consistent with this designation when conducted in a way that is not damaging to the resources being protected. Construction of public and semi-public infrastructure, and one single-family residence on an existing legal lot under private ownership, is consistent with this designation. All types of urban development and subdivisions that increase density are prohibited. Consistent Zoning: All A- districts Potentially Consistent Zoning: P-1 Density 0.0 FAR 0.0 WATER │ WA Applied to approximately 41.5 square miles of water including the portions of San Francisco Bay, San Pablo Bay, and the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta that are within the county, large inland reservoirs, and other water bodies large enough to warrant designation. Typical uses include ferry terminals, shipping facilities associated with adjacent industry (marine terminals, wharves, etc.), docks, water-oriented recreation uses, and aquaculture. Consistent Zoning: None Potentially Consistent Zoning: All districts Density 0.0 FAR N/A Notes on Mixed-Use Designations 1. Single-use residential and single-use nonresidential projects are allowed in areas with mixed-use designations; however, policies elsewhere in this General Plan may encourage or require mixed-use projects at specific locations. 2. The densities stated in each mixed-use designation apply only when a project includes a residential component; they do not compel residential development in otherwise nonresidential projects. 3. The FAR for each mixed-use designations is inclusive of residential and nonresidential development; density and FAR are not additive. 2.4. Mixed-use projects may be horizontal, meaning residential and nonresidential uses exist on the same site, or vertical, meaning residential and non-residential uses exist in the same building. 4 -8 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element This page intentionally left blank. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element 4 -9 FIGURE LU-1 GENERAL PLAN LAND USE MAP 4 -10 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element This page intentionally left blank. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element 4 -11 TABLE LU-2 URBAN AND NON-URBAN LAND USE DESIGNATIONS Urban Land Use Designations Non-Urban Land Use Designations Residential Very-Low Density Residential Low Density Residential Low-Medium Density Residential Medium Density Residential Medium-High Density Residential High Density Residential Very-High Density Residential Maximum Density Commercial and Office Light Industry Heavy Industry Mixed-Use Low Density Mixed-Use Medium Density Mixed-Use High Density Mixed-Use Community-Specific Density Public and Semi-Public Agricultural Core Agricultural Lands Parks and Recreation Commercial Recreation Resource Conservation Water Urban Limit Line The ULL, shown in Figure LU-2, is the second fundamental component of Measures C-1990 and L-2006. It prevents sprawl by establishing a boundary beyond which no urban land uses can be designated. The ULL and 65/35 Standard together ensure that urban development occurs within established communities where infrastructure and services already exist or are planned. In addition to Measures C-1990 and L-2006, the voter-approved Measure J-2004 Growth Management Program administered by the Contra Costa Transportation Authority requires the County and each city in the county to adopt a voter-approved ULL or equivalent. Sixteen of the 19 cities adopted the County’s 2006 voter-approved ULL as their own. Antioch, Pittsburg, and San Ramon adopted their own voter-approved ULLs (known as the Urban Growth Boundary [UGB] in San Ramon). The County and cities are solely responsible for administering their respective ULLs/UGBs, which together contain approximately 47 percent of the total land area within Contra Costa County. Because the 65/35 Standard limits urban land use designations to no more than 35 percent of the county’s total land area, the County and cities must work cooperatively to maintainensure that over 60,000 acres within the ULLs/UGBs remain under non-urban land use designations. Fortunately, a significant portion of this acreage already is permanently protected as neighborhood and communitylocal parks, regional parks and open spaces, reservoirs, and other public facilities. Examples of protected lands within the ULLs/UGBs include several regional parks within Richmond’s city limits (4,000 acres), Lafayette Reservoir and its surrounding recreation area (900 acres), Thurgood Marshall Regional Park (2,500 acres), Lime Ridge Open Space (1,200 acres), and Big Break Regional Shoreline (1,600 acres). The Urban Limit Line prevents sprawl and preserves valuable agricultural land. The County considered several criteria and factors when establishing the initial ULL location in 1990. Factors which contributed to properties being located outside the ULL included: 4 -12 Public Review Draft Envision Contra Costa 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element ● Land which qualifies for rating as Class I and Class II in the National Resource Conservation System (NRCS) Land Capability Classification. ● Major open space, park, and recreation areas. ● Lands with slopes of 26 percent or greater. ● Wetlands. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element 4 -13 FIGURE LU-2 URBAN LIMIT LINE 4 -14 Public Review Draft Envision Contra Costa 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element ● Other areas not appropriate for urban growth because of physical unsuitability for development, unstable geological conditions, inadequate water availability, lack of appropriate infrastructure, distance from existing development, likelihood of substantial environmental damage or substantial injury to fish or wildlife or their habitat, and other similar factors. No single criterion was necessarily determinative of whether a property was located inside or outside of the ULL. Where properties had characteristics that would locate them either inside or outside the ULL, the County weighed the competing characteristics and determined the most appropriate approach for the property. This resulted in the ULL cutting across properties in some instances. Properties that are located outside the ULL may not obtain General Plan amendments that would redesignate them for urban land use. In addition, properties outside the ULL may be subject to various agricultural and open space preservation measures identified elsewhere in this General Plan. These measures could include: ● Encouraging dedication of open space and conservation easements. ● Implementing a transfer of development rights (TDR) program. ● Requiring payment of an agricultural mitigation fee for conversion of agricultural land. ● Promoting non-urban "preservation" agreements between the County and cities to prevent annexation by cities of certain appropriate properties. ● Encouraging clustering of development. ● Establishing an ”agricultural soils trust fund” to fund possible purchase of easements or title to agricultural or open space lands. In general, the purpose of these measures is to preserve agricultural lands and open space and contribute to the continued economic viability of agricultural property. Changes to the Urban Limit Line The following text is from Measure L-2006, which requires specific language to be included in the Land Use Element and is why the 2016 ULL review conducted by the Board of Supervisors is discussed in future tense: There shall be no change to the ULL that would violate the 65/35 Land Preservation Standard. There will be no change to the ULL except in the manner specified herein. There will be no change to the ULL unless the Board of Supervisors first holds a public hearing at which it approves the change or changes, by a four-fifths vote, after making one or more of the following findings based on substantial evidence in the record: (a) A natural or man-made disaster or public emergency has occurred which warrants the provision of housing and/or other community needs within land located outside the ULL. (b) An objective study has determined that the ULL is preventing the County from providing its fair share of affordable housing or regional housing as required by State law, and the Board of Supervisors finds that a change to the ULL is necessary and the only feasible means to enable the County to meet these requirements of State law. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element 4 -15 (c) A majority of the cities that are party to a preservation agreement and the County have approved a change to the ULL affecting all or any portion of the land covered by the preservation agreement. (d) A minor change to the ULL will more accurately reflect topographical characteristics or legal boundaries. (e) An objective study has determined that a change to the ULL is necessary or desirable to further the economic viability of the East Contra Costa County Airport, and either mitigate adverse aviation- related environmental or community impacts attributable to Buchanan Field, or further the County’s aviation-related needs. (f) A change is required to conform to applicable California or federal law; or (g) A five-year cyclical review of the ULL has determined, based on the criteria and factors for establishing the ULL set forth above, that new information is available (from city or County growth management studies or otherwise) or circumstances have changed, warranting a change to the ULL. Any General Plan amendment that would expand the ULL by more than 30 acres shall require voter approval of the proposed General Plan amendment, following the public hearing and the four-fifths vote of the Board of Supervisors approving the General Plan amendment and making one or more of the findings set forth in subsections (a) through (g) above. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a proposed General Plan amendment to expand the ULL by more than 30 acres does not require voter approval if, after a public hearing, the Board of Supervisors by a four-fifths vote approves the General Plan amendment and makes either of the following findings based on substantial evidence in the record: (i) the expansion of the ULL is necessary to avoid an unconstitutional taking of private property; or (ii) the expansion of the ULL is necessary to comply with State or federal law. Expansions of the ULL totaling 30 acres or less do not require voter approval. The Board of Supervisors may conduct a cyclical review of the ULL every five years. The Board of Supervisors will review the boundary of the ULL in the year 2016. The purpose of the year 2016 review is to determine whether a change to the boundary of the County’s Urban Limit Line Map is warranted, based on facts and circumstances resulting from the County’s participation with the cities in a comprehensive review of the availability of land in Contra Costa County sufficient to satisfy housing and jobs needs for 20 years thereafter. This review of the ULL is in addition to any other reviews of the ULL the Board of Supervisors may conduct. Any change to the ULL proposed as a result of any review authorized by this section must be adopted pursuant to the procedures set forth in this section. These provisions are effective until December 31, 2026. Goal LU-1 Policies LU-P1.1 The General Plan Update Environmental Impact Report (EIR) assumes the following maximum development Goal LU-1 Coordinated and effective planning over the life of this General Plan. 4 -16 Public Review Draft Envision Contra Costa 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element projections for the year 2045: (a) 23,200 new dwelling units. (b) 1.2 million square feet of new commercial and office space. (c) 5 million square feet of new industrial space. If new development approved within the unincorporated county reaches the maximum number of residential units and commercial/office and industrial square feet projected in the General Plan EIR, require that environmental review conducted for any subsequent development project address growth impacts that would occur from development exceeding the General Plan EIR’s projections.* Actions LU-A1.1 Track growth to ensure it does not exceed the development projections analyzed in the General Plan EIR and described in Policy LU-P1.1 without subsequent environmental review.* LU-A1.2 Periodically updateReview County Ordinance Code Titles 7 – Building Regulations, 8 – Zoning, 9 – Subdivisions, and 10 – Public Works and Flood Control at least once every five years and update as necessary to maintain consistency with State law and newly adopted or revised planning documents (General Plan, Specific Plans, etc.); address emerging issues; and respond to economic, technological, and social trends. LU-A1.3 Biennially review and update the General Plan Land Use Map to ensure major land use changes, such public land acquisitions, are accurately reflected. LU-A1.4 Quantify the acreage designated for urban land uses at least once every five years to ensure continued compliance with the 65/35 Land Preservation Standard. Goal LU-2 Policies LU-P2.1 Continue implementing the 65/35 Land Preservation Standard, using the County ULL to focus future development in the county’s established urban and suburban communities while preserving agricultural land, rangeland, natural habitats, watersheds, and open space.* Goal LU-2 Growth and conservation that are balanced to preserve and enhance the quality of life, protect the environment and public safety, and benefit all those who live or work in Contra Costa County. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element 4 -17 LU-P2.2 Enhance the ULL’s effectiveness by supporting efforts to acquire and permanently protect land along the ULL boundary.* LU-P2.3 Limit development outside the ULL to non-urban uses, such as agriculture, mineral extraction, wind and solar energy production, natural carbon sequestration, other resource- based uses, and essential infrastructure.* LU-P2.4 Deny applications for Prohibit major subdivisions outside the ULL and as well as successive minor subdivisions of lots outside the ULL that were created through previous subdivisions.* LU-P2.5 Encourage infill development. LU-P2.6 Encourage clustering of allowable densities to reduce development footprints; protect scenic resources, natural features, and open spaces; and avoid hazardous areas (e.g., floodplains). LU-P2.7 In areas with a Residential land use designation, relate single-family residential density to the availability of utility services as follows: (a) Require a 5-acre minimum lot size where no public water or sanitary sewer service is available. (b) Require a 1-acre minimum lot size where either public water or sanitary sewer service is available, but not both. Where public water and sanitary sewer services are available, allowable density will be based on the General Plan Land Use Map designation, as well as drainage, health, safety, and other applicable standards. LU-P2.8 Discourage extension of water and sanitary sewer lines into areas outside the ULL, except to serve public and semi-public uses that are not growth inducing, or when such extension is necessary to address a declared public health emergency. When lines are extended outside the ULL, they should be designed to service the intended use only, and not allow for additional future service connections. LU-P2.9 Consistently advise the Contra Costa County Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) to support the 65/35 Land Preservation Standard and County ULL when considering requests for annexation to water and wastewater districts and extension of services. 4 -18 Public Review Draft Envision Contra Costa 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element LU-P2.10 When considering development proposals and land use changes, treat susceptibility to hazards and threats to health and safetyhuman life as primary considerations. Actions LU-A2.1 Amend the County Ordinance Code to require the following prior to approval of a tentative map for subdivision in areas designated Agricultural Lands or Agricultural Core: (a) Evidence of adequate groundwater supply to support intended uses, considering the cumulative, long-term demand. (b) Demonstration that each parcel is suitable for an on- site wastewater treatment system. (c) Satisfactory road and street access, particularly for emergency vehicles. (d) Adequate regional drainage capacity, including downstream natural watercourses. (e) Detailed site plans for each lot indicating building locations, driveways, well and leach field locations, energy-efficient and -conserving features, location of hazards such as landslides and floodplains, necessary flood and stormwater management improvements, and fencing. (f) Other information that may be required to confirm the safe use of each lot for its intended purpose. See the Land Use, Infrastructure, and Transportation Coordination section of this Element and the Public Facilities and Services Element for additional policies and actions on urban services and infrastructure. See the Conservation, Open Space, Conservation, and Working Lands Element for additional policies and actions on agricultural areas, resource-based uses, and open space management. Sustainable Growth and Quality Design The County’s 65/35 Standard and ULL provide a framework for sustainable growth countywide by containing sprawl and preserving natural spaces. Inside the ULL, certain development patterns and design approaches promote sustainability at the community level. Infill development, for example, occurs within existing communities and utilizes existing infrastructure networks to accommodate new residents and businesses, thereby eliminating environmental and fiscal impacts associated with extending roads, utilities, and services into undeveloped areas. Infill projects make use of vacant or underutilized spaces and contemporary designs tend to be more human-scaled than projects of the past, with priority given to the needs and comfort of people instead of the movement of vehicles. Locating jobs and housing near transit and other services is another sustainable growth strategy. There is a jobs-housing imbalance in the county, with considerably more employed residents than jobs. Countywide, as of 2020, there are only 0.9 jobs for every home, leading to substantial out- Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element 4 -19 Vacant lots, like the one above in Saranap, are opportunities for infill development such as the proposed Saranap Village project, below. commuting as Contra Costa residents drive to other parts of the Bay Area and beyond for work. Ideally, there would be 1.4 jobs for every home in the county since there are about 1.4 employed residents per home. Balancing the number of jobs and housing units across the county and individual communities, and locating these types of uses near transit and other services, can reduce commute times and daily travel distances (i.e., vehicle miles traveled, or VMT), which in turn reduces air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions and improves quality of life. When developing these uses near each other, superior design becomes even more critical to ensure that the uses are complementary. Quality, thoughtful design also supports achievement of sustainability goals. For example, careful consideration of solar orientation and shading when designing site plans, buildings, and landscaping can maximize exposure for solar panels and gardens while reducing energy use for heating and cooling. Low Impact Development, a stormwater management strategy, uses green roofs, bioswales, rain gardens, and similar features to mimic natural processes for removing pollutants from runoff before it reaches creeks, rivers, and bays. Designs that incorporate the principles of a circular economy aim to reduce consumption and benefit the environment by accounting for the full life cycle of buildings and materials, including manufacture, construction, maintenance, reuse, and disposal, and striving to eliminate waste and pollution. The County supports these and other environmentally-conscious design approaches. 4 -20 Public Review Draft Envision Contra Costa 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element Goal LU-2 Goal LU-3 Policies LU-P3.1 Support regional efforts to achieve a jobs-housing balance within the county and within subregions of the county by maintaining an adequate supply of developable land designated for job-generating uses. For any General Plan amendment proposing to convert commercial, industrial, or office land uses to residential or non-urban land uses, evaluate the project’s effect on the local and countywide jobs-housing balance. LU-P3.2 Encourage residential development in or near existing employment centers, and development of job-generating uses near areas that are primarily residential. Where large- scale residential or commercial development is planned, encourage a mix of housing and employment opportunities unless doing so would exacerbate a severe jobs-housing imbalance in the area. LU-P3.3 Encourage extremely high-density, mixed-use development that combines employment, housing, and services near major transit facilities. Such development should be planned and designed to encourage walking, micromobility, and transit use; shorter commutes; and reduced dependency on single-occupant vehicles. LU-P3.4 Encourage conversion of existing commercial areas to mixed-use nodes and corridors. LU-P3.5 Encourage development of housing that meets the needs of the local workforce and living-wage jobs that maximize the education, skills, and talents of county residents. LU-P3.6 Encourage incorporation of childcare, adult daycare, and similar beneficial uses into new development. To maximize accessibility, encourage childcare facilities in residential neighborhoods, employment centers, schools, public libraries, hospitals, religious facilities, and parks, as well as near transit stops. LU-P3.7 Welcome development that supports the countywide goal of reducing VMT, thus reducing greenhouse gas emissions, to meet climate change targets. Require projects that do not support the County’s VMT-reduction goals to incorporate necessary changes (e.g., design, Goal LU-3 A range and distribution of compatible and sustainable land uses that meet the county’s social and economic needs and allow for balanced housing and job growth. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element 4 -21 land use mix) to ensure they support those goals. See the Stronger Communities Element for additional policies and actions about economic development and the Transportation Element for additional policies and actions about VMT. Actions LU-A3.1 Evaluate financial strategies and tools, such as Enhanced Infrastructure Financing Districts, to attract housing to employment areas and create new employment centers near residential areas. LU-A3.2 Develop and maintain an inventory of County-owned surplus lands with residential development potential and post the inventory on the County’s website. Goal LU-4 Policies LU-P4.1 Embrace the principles of a circular economy as they relate to development and encourage all projects to utilize ecologically sustainable practices and materials. LU-P4.2 Continuously improve community appearance by requiring high-quality designs and materials that complement their surroundings, with emphasis on enhancing public spaces and historic and cultural resources.* LU-P4.3 Encourage smooth transitions between new and existing or planned development. LU-P4.4 Require site and building reconfigurations, setback increases, landscaping enhancements, screening, or other design solutions wherever necessary to minimize potential conflicts between uses. LU-P4.5 Require shadow and solar access studies for new multiple- family residential, mixed-use, commercial, and industrial projects greater than three stories in height or with obvious potential to significantly shade parks, commercial nurseries, residential yards, solar arrays, and other uses that are sensitive to loss of sunlight.* LU-P4.6 Require commercial and mixed-use projects to create inviting, pedestrian-oriented streetscapes wherever possible. Goal LU-4 Sustainable and high-quality design. 4 -22 Public Review Draft Envision Contra Costa 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element LU-P4.7 Encourage residential and mixed-use buildings over four stories tall to incorporate setbacks or other massing changes on upper floors to create more human-scale and comfortable pedestrian environments. Actions LU-A4.1 Amend the County Ordinance Code to include requirements for Low Impact Development, use of low- carbon concrete, water and energy conservation, reclaimed water, renewable energy use, green building, and other measures that reduce the environmental impacts of development, based on the best available science. See the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element for additional policies and actions about sustainable design. Land Use, Infrastructure, and Transportation The breadth of uses and activities in the county must be supported by infrastructure such as utilities, roadways, railroads, pipelines, and drainage facilities. Most of the infrastructure and utility services in the county are provided by other agencies and private entities. The Contra Costa Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) regulates the jurisdictional boundaries and spheres of influence of all cities and all special districts who provide infrastructure and services, like water, wastewater, and fir e districts. By coordinating changes to local governmental boundaries, LAFCO helps to ensure that current and projected service needs will be met while discouraging sprawl and preserving agricultural and open space lands. The County also has a responsibility to ensure that the pace and pattern of development can be supported by the infrastructure and transportation networks, promotes fiscal health, aligns with regional plans, and represents community values. Focusing on higher-density infill development maximizes the efficiency of transportation and other infrastructure and reduces up- front construction and long-term maintenance costs. Goal LU-5 Policies LU-P5.1 Allow development only where requisite community services, facilities, and infrastructure can be provided.* LU-P5.2 Coordinate with LAFCO to ensure that city annexations and related land use decisions do not: (a) Interfere with attainment of the County’s land use goals as expressed in this General Plan. Goal LU-5 Coordinated land use, transportation, and infrastructure decisions so that growth occurs in locations where capacity and services are available or committed. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element 4 -23 (b) Include Housing Element inventory sites unless provisions have been made to transfer the site’s assigned units to the receiving city’s Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA). (c) Create new unincorporated “islands” (i.e., developed isolated areas substantially surrounded by incorporated cities). LU-P5.3 LU-P5.3 Encourage cities to annex unincorporated “islands,” such as the Rollingwood (San Pablo), Ayers Ranch (Concord), and San Miguel (Walnut Creek) neighborhoods. LU-P5.2LU-P5.4 Consider the potential locations of planned public infrastructure projects (e.g., transit lines, roadways, drainage improvements) when evaluating development proposals and deny development applications that would interfere with implementation of such projects. Actions LU-A5.1 In 2025 and at least once every five years thereafter, evaluate the County’s off-street parking standards to ensure their continued applicability in light of changing conditions, trends, and technologiesy. Each evaluation should assess the appropriateness of reducing or eliminating parking minimums, taking off-site impacts and the variations in parking needs between communities into account, and recommend strategies for reducing parking demand. LU-A5.2 Work with LAFCO and utility service providers to: (a) Annex lands planned for urban development by this General Plan into their service areas. (b) Detach private lands, especially agricultural or rural lands, from district boundaries if they are not planned for urban development and are not currently served. See the Public Facilities and Services Element for additional policies and actions about infrastructure and services, and the Transportation Element for additional policies and actions about transportation infrastructure. Intergovernmental Coordination The County’s jurisdiction on land use matters is limited to unincorporated areas and the County itself doesn’t provide many of the utilities and services upon which its residents and businesses depend. County staff and officials regularly work with cities, special districts, and other agencies to ensure that the County’s planning decisions support achievement of regional goals. Important regional partners in land use planning include the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG)/Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC); Delta Protection Commission and Delta Stewardship Council, which has regulatory have authority over land uses within the Primary Zone of the Delta and Legal Delta, respectively (see Figure LU-3); and the US military, which must be consulted on projects proposed near its facilities (see Figure LU-4) to ensure new development does not conflict with operations or pose safety risks. 4 -24 Public Review Draft Envision Contra Costa 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element An important component of long-range regional planning in the Bay Area is designation of Priority Development Areas (PDAs). PDAs are proximate to public transit and planned for concentrated development of new homes, jobs, services, and community amenities. PDAs are envisioned as walkable areas that provide the necessities of daily living, thereby allowing residents to be less automobile dependent. ABAG/MTC offers grants and other assistance to develop and implement PDA plans. While PDAs are a regional planning tool, they are under the jurisdiction of the cities and counties where they are located. Over 30 PDAs have been designated in Contra Costa County, six of which are entirely or partially within the unincorporated area, as shown on Figure LU-5 and described in Table LU-3. Another regional planning tool supported by ABAG/MTC is Transit-Oriented Communities (TOCs). TOCs are similar to PDAs in that their purpose is to create walkable communities near public transit. However, TOCs specifically aim to provide high residential densities within one-half mile of high-quality transit facilities like BART stations and ferry terminals, whereas PDAs may have lower average densities and extend farther out. A TOC therefore may exist within a larger PDA. In Contra Costa County there are 14 locations (12 BART stations, one Amtrak station, and one ferry terminal) that could qualify for designation as a TOC. As shown on Figure LU-5, these include unincorporated areas near the Pleasant Hill/Contra Costa Centre and Pittsburg/Bay Point BART Stations. PRIORITY DEVELOPMENT AREAS IN UNINCORPORATED CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Priority Development Area Households Jobs 2010 2040 Projected 2010- 2040 Growth % Growth 2010 2040 Projected 2010- 2040 Growth % Growth San Pablo Avenue Corridor - Unincorporated County 1,586 4,784 3,198 202% 847 1,087 240 28% North Richmond 1,080 4,304 3,224 299% 1,797 2,400 603 34% Downtown El Sobrante 559 784 225 40% 1,030 1,127 97 9% Contra Costa Centre 354 623 269 76% 4,441 5,888 1,447 33% Pittsburg/ Bay Point BART Station 847 1,460 613 72% 838 1,959 1,121 134% Brentwood Boulevard Source: 2017 Contra Costa PDA Investment and Growth Strategy. Contra Costa Transportation Authority. Goal LU-6 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element 4 -25 FIGURE LU-3 SACRAMENTO-SAN JOAQUIN DELTA 4 -26 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element FIGURE LU-4 MILITARY OPERATIONS AREAS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element 4 -27 Policies LU-P6.1 Ensure that County projects and decisions on private development and land use activities within the Legal Delta are consistent with the following plans: (a) The Land Use and Resource Management Plan for the Primary Zone of the Delta adopted by the Delta Protection Commission. (b) The Delta Plan adopted by the Delta Stewardship Council. In addition, screen proposed General Plan amendments affecting the Primary Zone for consistency with Public Resources Code Section 29763.5, including a specific analysis of consistency with each subsection thereof. LU-P6.2 Maintain Priority Development Area and Transit-Oriented Community designations in support of Plan Bay Area and other regional planning initiatives sponsored by ABAG/MTC. Work collaboratively with cities and special districts (e.g., East Bay Regional Park District and utility service providers) to address regional issues of mutual concern and coordinate on decisions and actions that affect residents of nearby unincorporated areas. LU-P6.3 Work collaboratively with cities and special districts (e.g., East Bay Regional Park District and utility service providers) to address regional issues of mutual concern and coordinate on decisions and actions that affect residents of nearby unincorporated areas. When a project is within the sphere of influence of a city within Contra Costa County, or adjacent to a city located in a neighboring county, refer the project to the city for review and comment. LU-P6.4 When a project is within the sphere of influence of a city within Contra Costa County, or adjacent to a city located in a neighboring county, refer the project to the city for review and comment. Coordinate with LAFCO to ensure that city annexations and related land use decisions do not: (a) Interfere with attainment of the County’s land use goals as expressed in this General Plan. Include Housing Element inventory sites unless provisions have been made to transfer the site’s assigned units to the receiving city’s Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA). (b)(a) Create new unincorporated “islands” (i.e., isolated areas substantially surrounded by incorporated cities). Goal LU-6 Effective coordination with other agencies to ensure orderly planning and consistent service delivery. 4 -28 Public Review Draft Envision Contra Costa 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element LU-P6.5 Encourage cities to annex unincorporated “islands,” such as the Ayers Ranch and San Miguel neighborhoods. LU-P6.6 Coordinate with the Department of Defense to ensure new development near military installations does not interfere with military readiness or operations. Actions LU-A6.1 Review and comment on major projects proposed within cities to avoid conflicts with County land use goals and policies. See the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element for additional policies and actions about the Delta. SPECIFIC LAND USES Although located in the San Francisco Bay Area, one of America’s most populated metropolitan areas, the vast majority of the land in the unincorporated the county is devoted to agriculture, parks, and other forms of open space, supported by the 65/35 Standard and ULL discussed previously. Communities in West and Central County include a full range of urban and suburban uses. In East County, the dominant land uses are agriculture and open space with a handful of distinct unincorporated communities that are primarily residential, supported by limited commercial, industrial, and public uses. As described in the Land Use Designations and Map section of this Element, the General Plan Land Use Map (Figure LU-1) designates each parcel of land in the unincorporated county for a type of land use. A parcel’s designation usually reflects an existing use that will continue. However, in some cases the designation is intended to encourage a land use change that is consistent with the vision for the community’s future. The policy guidance in this section supports development of those planned land uses in alignment with the overarching goals of this General Plan. Goal LU-7 Goal LU-7 A variety of residential neighborhood types that provide housing opportunities and desirable living environments for all residents. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element 4 -29 Multiple-family homes, like these in Bay Point, fill an important housing need. Policies LU-P7.1 Plan for a variety of housing types. Encourage innovative, nontraditional designs and layouts in response to evolving housing trends and needs. LU-P7.2 Provide housing opportunities for all economic segments of the population, ensuring that affordable housing is distributed throughout the county and is not concentrated in traditionally lower-income areas. Promote development of affordable housing near public transit and essential services whenever possible. LU-P7.3 Maintain objective design standards for residential and mixed-use development to provide a streamlined approval process and ensure architectural compatibility for future infill development. LU-P7.3LU-P7.4 Protect residential neighborhoods from incompatible uses and activities that will adversely affect public health and safety. LU-P7.4LU-P7.5 Require new residential development to be planned, designed, and constructed in a way that promotes health, minimizes hazard exposure for future residents, and mitigates potential adverse effects on natural resources and the environment. LU-P7.6 In hazard-prone areas, such as slopes exceeding 15 percent, mapped floodplains, High and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones, and Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zones, allow for decreased residential density, including below the minimum density requirement for the applicable land use designation, as the severity of risk increases.* LU-P7.5LU-P7.7 Require new residential projects to provide convenient access/connections to public transit, local destinations, and multi-use trails whenever possible.* 4 -30 Public Review Draft Envision Contra Costa 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element LU-P7.6LU-P7.8 Within the ULL, allow properties with existing legally established residential development that exceeds the maximum density ranges specified in Table LU-1 to retain those densities in the event the existing development must be reconstructed for any reason. Actions LU-A7.1 Maintain objective design standards for residential and mixed-use development to provide a streamlined approval process and ensure architectural compatibility for future infill development. Evaluate the appropriateness of amending County Ordinance Code Title 8 - Zoning to allow sale of an ADU as a condominium separate from the primary residence, pursuant to AB 1033 and Government Code Section 66342. See the Health and Safety Element for additional policies and actions related to residential development in areas vulnerable to hazards (e.g., wildfire, flooding); see the Stronger Communities Element for additional policies and actions related to safe housing; see the Community Profiles in the Stronger Communities Element for guiding principles, policies, and actions about future land uses in individual unincorporated communities; and see the Housing Element for additional policy guidance related to housing in general. Goal LU-8 Mixed-use development in Contra Costa Centre makes efficient use of the land by providing homes above commercial services. Policies LU-P8.1 Plan for a sufficient quantity, variety, and distribution of commercial uses to meet the basic daily needs of Goal LU-8 A variety of well-located commercial and mixed-use areas that provide jobs and services, create civic gathering places and community focal points, accommodate higher- density housing, and contribute to the tax base of the County. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element 4 -31 residents in communities throughout the county. LU-P8.2 Support development of neighborhood-serving commercial services in and adjacent to residential areas where they can be accessed easily using multiple modes of transportation. LU-P8.3 Encourage adaptive reuse of aging commercial buildings and sites. LU-P8.4 Support rehabilitation of commercial centers, encouraging improvements that enhance appearance, sustainability, and non-motorized (pedestrian, bicycle, etc.) access and safety. LU-P8.5 Emphasize the importance of commercial centers as civic gathering placesspaces. Whenever feasible, require plans for commercial and mixed-use areasprojects to include safe, well-maintained open spacesareas, gathering places, and public spaces and amenities that create a strong sense of place. LU-P8.6 Discourage new strip commercial development, allowing it only when alternative layouts are infeasible at the project site. LU-P8.7 Encourage growth of the county’s hospitality sector, including heritage tourism, waterfront amenities, farm-to- table restaurants, other dining and entertainment establishments, commercial recreation, various types of accommodations, and visitor services. LU-P8.8 Accommodate a variety of land uses at Buchanan Field and Byron Airports, consistent with the master plan for each facility. A range of commercial aviation functions, including fixed-base operators, aviation businesses, and passenger facilities and services, should be allowed, as well as ancillary uses that support the economic viability of each airport. LU-P8.9 Plan land uses and activities in the vicinity of harbors to optimize their use for commerce and recreation while accounting for forecasted sea-level rise by 2100 under a medium-high risk aversion scenario, subsidence, and groundwater threats. Actions LU-A8.1 Monitor shifts in the office and retail markets to determine whether General Plan, zoning, and other regulatory changes that facilitate conversion of vacant or obsolete space to new uses are warranted. 4 -32 Public Review Draft Envision Contra Costa 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element See the Stronger Communities Element for additional policies and actions related to economic development. Goal LU-9 Industrial uses along the Northern Waterfront, like this facility that manufactures commuter trains, provide local jobs and boost the economy. Policies LU-P9.1 WelcomeActively seek out industries that create living- wage jobs and career advancement opportunities for county residents while minimizing environmental degradation, pollution exposure, hazardous conditions, and adverse public health impacts. LU-P9.2 Welcome new businesses that improve supply chains for core local industries, including agriculture and food. LU-P9.3 Designate industrial land adjacent to major transportation infrastructure (i.e., freeways, rail lines, ports) and in other locations where the impacts of industrial traffic on neighborhoods and commercial areas can be minimized. LU-P9.4 Prioritize industrial land along the Bay and Delta shoreline for uses requiring deep-water access or large quantities of raw water for their processes (e.g., cooling), and discourage siting of other industrial uses that could be accommodated elsewhere. Continue partnering with regional agencies to ensure reliable deep-water access to industrial sites. LU-P9.5 Plan industrial uses and districts to be harmonious with nearby areas, reduce the potential for off-site impacts, Goal LU-9 Industrial areas that support advanced manufacturing, research and development, production and distribution, repair, and other sectors that anchor the county’s economy. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element 4 -33 and limit potential exposure to environmental health hazards and pollutants. Actions LU-A9.1 Maintain formal “Priority Production Areas” designation of key industrial areas by ABAG/ MTC, confirming their long- term importance to the region and facilitating future investment. Pursue coordinated economic development funding for these areas. LU-A9.2 Monitor shifts in industrial markets resulting from the transition from fossil fuels and evaluate the County’s industrial land supply for opportunity zones or innovation districts that can accommodate industries such as advanced manufacturing, prefabricated housing production, biomedical/biotech, logistics and mobility hubs and transportation technology, clean technology, and maker spaces. Consider General Plan, zoning, and other regulatory changes that facilitate conversion of vacant or obsolete space to new uses as warranted. LU-A9.3 Amend the County Ordinance Code and/or procedures to streamline the permitting process for businesses and industries that provide living-wage jobs, invest in the community, hire from the local workforce, and embrace sustainability. See the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element for additional policies and actions that support the agriculture industry. See also the Stronger Communities Element for additional policies and actions related to a potential transition from fossil fuel industries to renewable and sustainable industries that offer living-wage jobs, and for additional policies and actions about economic development. See the Health and Safety Element for additional policies and actions related to hazardous materials. Goal LU-10 Agricultural buildings, like this barn in Tassajara Valley, enhance the character of rural areas. Goal LU-10 Rural, agricultural, and open space areas that provide scenic value, support Delta ecosystem health, and meet the needs of the agricultural industry. 4 -34 Public Review Draft Envision Contra Costa 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element Policies LU-P10.1 Encourage consolidation of agricultural parcels not meeting the minimum acreage requirement for the applicable zoning district. LU-P10.2 Ensure all former Williamson Act parcels are rezoned from Agricultural Preserve District to an agricultural zoning district appropriate for the area. LU-P10.3 Preserve the rural character of the following areas, which are displayed in Figure LU-65: (a) Alhambra Valley/Briones (b) Tassajara Valley (b)(c) Delta Primary Zone (c)(d) Agricultural Core between Brentwood and Discovery Bay (d)(e) Crockett Hills between Crockett and State Route 4 (e)(f) Franklin Canyon/State Route 4 corridor between Hercules and Martinez (f)(g) Bollinger Canyon Road corridor between Las Trampas Regional Wilderness and Crow Canyon Road (g)(h) Norris Canyon Road corridor between San Ramon and the Alameda County line (h)(i) Marsh Creek Road corridor between Clayton and Byron Highway (i)(j) Kirker Pass Road corridor (j)(k) Morgan Territory Road corridor (k)(l) Deer Valley Road corridor Pay special attention to potential aesthetic impacts in these areas and ensure such impacts are adequately mitigated. LU-P10.4 Maintain agricultural preserves in the Briones Hills and Tassajara Valley areas through agreements with adjacent cities to retain these areas for agricultural, open space, and other non-urban uses.* Actions LU-A10.1 Amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning related to development of homes and associated buildings and structures on agricultural properties to require clustering of such improvements to protect agricultural vitality and sustainability. LU-A10.2 Continue working with agricultural stakeholders to minimize the complexity, time, and expense of County permitting requirements for agricultural properties and maximize focus on meeting the objectives of the regulations. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element 4 -35 FIGURE LU-5 RURAL AND AGRICULTURAL AREAS 4 -36 Public Review Draft Envision Contra Costa 2045 General Plan – Land Use Element See the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element for additional policies and actions related to open space management, agricultural resource conservation, and the agricultural industry. LAND USE ELEMENT PERFORMANCE MEASURES To track progress in achieving the major goals of this Element, every five years, the County will collect data to assess its performance against the following measures. Progress will be tracked relative to the prior performance review and the baseline year of 2024. Based on the findings from the five-year review, the County may adjust policies, actions, or the approach to implementing them to improve performance, as needed. ● Cumulative numbers of single-family and multiple-family units and square footages of commercial and industrial development approved since General Plan adoption that stay within the development projections listed in Policy LU-P1.1, unless additional environmental review is conducted. ● Increased acreage of permanently protected open space. ● Improved balance between the number of employed residents and jobs to reduce the need for people to commute outside the county. ● Increased ratio of multiple-family units to single-family units. ● Increased percentage of households that are within a half-mile of a neighborhood-serving commercial service. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element 5 -1 5 TRANSPORTATION ELEMENT Transportation is a fundamental part of our daily lives. The diversity and availability of transportation options, the conditions in which they exist, and how we ultimately choose to travel—to jobs, schools, homes, healthcare providers, stores, and leisure activities—have major implications for quality of life, public health, climate resilience, sustainability, and the environment. Contra Costa County has excellent regional access by road, passenger and freight rail, water, and air. The county includes dense urban neighborhoods served by local and express bus service, sprawling suburbs connected to the Bay Area’s larger employment centers by Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) and major freeways, and rural and agricultural communities served by a network of two-lane highways and roads. Multi-use trails found throughout the county serve pedestrians, cyclists, and micromobility. Reducing the need for single-occupant vehicle trips, improving travel times for transit and carpools, and providing multiple connections and options for travel between neighborhoods and destinations in Contra Costa County are key considerations for the future. Closing gaps in the multi-use trail network, improving the pedestrian realm, expanding transit access, and extending the range of efficient, safe, and easy options for getting around will enhance the quality of life for all community members. This Element focuses on providing people with a variety of high-quality transportation options, strengthening transportation connections to the rest of the Bay Area and beyond, and improving transportation within communities. The Transportation Element sets forth goals and policies describing the overall mobility program for the county and identifies the general location of existing and proposed major transportation routes, terminals, and facilities, as required by the California Government Code. The Transportation Element is divided into the following seven sections that address the needs of the Contra Costa community: ● The Safe and Sustainable Transportation section includes policy guidance to improve safety for all roadway users and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and other environmental harms through expanded opportunities for active transportation, public transit, and zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs). ● The Coordinated Planning section includes policy guidance to support the County's role in regional transportation projects that involve other agencies locally and across the Bay Area. ● The Multimodal Roadway Network section defines roadway classifications and includes policy guidance to enhance mobility and connectivity for all roadway users. ● The Active Transportation section defines bikeway types and includes policy guidance to expand opportunities for active transportation, which includes walking, biking, or other rolling forms of travel that support active lifestyles and health. ● The Goods Movement section includes policy guidance to support rail, port, and truck facilities that bolster the economy, while reducing GHG emissions and protecting public health and safety. ● The Air Mobility section includes policy guidance to provide safe and viable general and commercial aviation in the county. 5 -2 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element ● The Transportation Element Performance Measures describe how the County will track its progress in achieving some of the major objectives expressed in this Element. This General Plan highlights policies and actions that address four major themes that serve as a framework for the Plan. For the reader’s ease, policies and actions related to these themes are identified throughout the General Plan using the following icons. The policies and actions related to each theme are also compiled in Appendix A. See Chapter 1 for more information about each theme. Community Health Environmental Justice Economic Development Sustainability Separated and protected bicycle facilities increase the usage and safety of bicycles as a mode of transport, helping to shift trips away from automobiles. SAFE AND SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORTATION We all use some form of transportation to reach our daily destinations. The mode of transportation people choose is affected by convenience, cost, comfort, perceived safety, travel time, and availability of options such as transit and bikeways. Since World War II, the transportation system in Contra Costa County has been focused on the automobile. The Public Works Department spends the majority of gasoline tax revenue on road maintenance primarily to ensure safe passage for cars. However, roadways that originally were designed to move cars as efficiently as possible can be redesigned to encourage walking, biking, and micromobility by making them safer and more comfortable through the provision of sidewalks, crosswalks, protected bike lanes, lighti ng, and shade. In addition, there is a range of public transit available that expands transportation options, including two BART lines, Amtrak’s Capitol Corridor and San Joaquins routes, local and express buses operated by several transit agencies, and ferry service (see Figure TR-1). The County plays an active role in promoting safe and sustainable transportation. Its Transportation Demand Management (TDM) program encourages developers to devise creative and effective ways to reduce car trips and associated impacts from new development. The County also maintains the Transportation Analysis Guidelines that establish a uniform approach to preparing traffic analyses and ensuring that County decisions support State, regional, and local goals, such as reducing vehicle miles traveled (VMT) and improving safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable users. Through these and other approaches, the County also aims to reduce air pollution and GHG emissions from the transportation sector. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element 5 -3 FIGURE TR-1 PASSENGER RAIL AND FERRY SERVICES 5 -4 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element Despite efforts to reduce vehicle trips, cars are and will continue to be the dominant mode choice for years to come. This section promotes sustainability by supporting ZEVs. In 1990, the State initiated efforts to promote transitioning to ZEVs, and regulations have been strengthened over the years as technology has evolved to enable greater emissions reductions. The County is preparing for a future with ZEVs through the Contra Costa Electric Vehicle (EV) Readiness Blueprint, which identifies the best locat ions for EV charging infrastructure, provides local agencies with guidance to encourage EVs, addresses maintenance of EVs and charging infrastructure, and identifies areas where energy distribution improvements are needed to support charging infrastructure. To support safety on our roadways, the County adopted the Vision Zero Action Plan in 2022, which recognizes that fatalities and major injuries on roadways are preventable. Vision Zero is founded on the five elements of a Safe System Approach: safe road users, safe vehicles, safe speeds, safe roads, and post-crash care. The County supports programs and physical improvements aimed at getting us to zero deaths on our roadway network. To monitor progress, the Vision Zero Plan commits the County to ongoing tracking of collision data. Managing transportation safely and sustainably into the future will mean operating within available funding levels while positioning Contra Costa County to take advantage of current and future innovations. Such innovations could include alternative fuels, car sharing, micromobility, private transportation network services, autonomous vehicle technology, and other advances still to come. Through all of this, the County will need to ensure its actions and practices support its safety, equity, and sustainabili ty goals. The Pleasant Hill/Contra Costa Centre BART station provides an alternative to commuting by car. Goal TR-1 Policies TR-P1.1 In addition to any required California Environmental Goal TR-1 A transportation system that promotes active transportation, supports effective and equitable provision of transit services, and reduces GHGs and other environmental harm. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element 5 -5 Quality Act (CEQA) review, evaluate the traffic operations effects of proposed projects in accordance with the County’s Transportation Analysis Guidelines and other appropriate policy supplements and transportation plans, and best practices. When operational deficiencies are identified, the treatments to address those deficiencies should first prioritize reducing the project’s vehicular trips and collision risks, and may secondarily consider adding vehicular capacity so long as the safety and movement of active modes are not compromised. Exceptions to the level of service (LOS) operational standards presented in the Transportation Analysis Guidelines may be granted if the treatments necessary to address operational deficiencies would conflict with other priorities in this General Plan and if the project is otherwise consistent with this Plan. TR-P1.2 Prioritize expansion of bicycle, micromobility, and pedestrian infrastructure (e.g., Class IV separated bikeways) to address the significant latent demand for these active transportation modes. TR-P1.3 Ensure emerging transportation technologies and travel options, such as autonomous and ZEVs and transportation network companies, support the County’s goals for reducing emissions, adapting to climate change, improving public safety, and increasing equitable mobility. TR-P1.4 Reduce single-occupant vehicle usage and VMT, by significantly enhancing the availability and safety of other travel modes through infrastructure investment, policy support (Vision Zero, at a minimum using strategies defined in the TDM Ordinance, and other best practices), and support for public transit.* TR-P1.5 Ensure new highways constructed outside the Urban Limit Line are not growth-inducing through land-use controls, access limitations, and other appropriate measures. TR-P1.6 Partner with the Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) and California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) to better manage traffic operations on the State highway system in Contra Costa County through the application of ramp metering, construction of high- occupancy toll (HOT)/Express or other managed lanes, and other capacity-management techniques. TR-P1.7 Leverage the County’s position as a major employer to demonstrate leadership in enhancing workforce commute options. TR-P1.8 Support improvement and expansion of passenger and commuter rail service countywide, with emphasis on transformative projects such as the Hercules Intermodal Transit Center and BART extensions in the I-80 corridor toward Crockett and SR 4 corridor toward Brentwood. TR-P1.9 Support public transit and Eencourage transit use by advocating for increased funding with enhanced 5 -6 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element governance, high-frequency service, supportingand expansion of first-mile/last-mile programs, including micromobility and other emerging modes. TR-P1.10 Enhance multimodal access to all transit stops, including local routes as well as passenger and commuter rail stations and ferry terminals, prioritizing stops which serve vulnerable and mobility-impaired populations. TR-P1.11 Support transitioning all on-road vehicles, including personal vehicles and business, government, and public transit fleets, to electric power from renewable sources or other zero-emission-free fuels. TR-P1.12 Continue to improve ZEV (including electric bicycle) charging/fueling infrastructure within new development and public rights-of-way, incorporating new technologies whenever possible. TR-P1.13 Require designs for new parking facilities to incorporate ZEV charging/fueling infrastructure and maximize opportunities for adaptive reuse.* Actions TR-A1.1 Develop and promote mobility alternatives to single- occupancy vehicles, including but not limited to public transit, micromobility, zero-carboncarbon-free rideshare strategies, and public transitnonmotorized modes. TR-A1.2 Review and update County Ordinance Code Chapter 82- 32 – Transportation Demand Management and the County’s Transportation Demand Management Guidelines at least once every five years to incorporate current best practices. TR-A1.3 Update the Contra Costa County Transportation Analysis Guidelines on an as-needed basis. TR-A1.4 Implement programs to encourage transit use, bicycling, walking, telecommuting, and use of alternative vehicle fuels by County employees. TR-A1.5 Conduct a survey of County offices and facilities to identify gaps in public transit and the alternativeactive transportation network within one mile of County offices and facilities, and pursue funding for projects and programs that will fill those gaps and improve the availability of alternative transportation options for County employees. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element 5 -7 TR-A1.6 Partner with transit agencies and CCTA to develop “Safe Routes to Transit” guidance that could be applied in new development areas and existing neighborhoods. TR-A1.7 Partner with transit providers, cities, and CCTA to develop a countywide transit stop program that takes a holistic approach to transit stop planning and construction. Push forEncourage the program to address right-of-way adequacy (i.e., sufficient space for bus pullouts and amenities), amenities (e.g., shelters, seating, bicycle racks and lockers), and improvements around stops to increase accessibility (e.g., curb ramps, sidewalk widening). TR-A1.8 Work with transit agencies to provide convenient ways for residents to report transit shelters and other amenities (e.g., lighting, seating) that are in disrepair. Encourage and promote reporting countywide, especially in Impacted Communities. TR-A1.9 Pursue funding and other resources to implement the Accessible Transportation Services Strategic Plan and similar plans and initiatives that expand the hours of operation, operational boundaries, convenience, and quality of accessible transit to improve mobility for seniors, people with disabilities, and other vulnerable populations. TR-A1.10 Support establishment of a Bay Area-wide transit fare equity program that includes free or means-based transit passes for qualifying residents of Impacted Communities. TR-A1.11 Coordinate with CCTA and other local and regional agencies to implement the Contra Costa Electric Vehicle Readiness Blueprint and related policies and apply best practices in ZEV charging/fueling infrastructure requirements. TR-A1.12 Update the County Ordinance Code as necessary to support advances in ZEV charging/fueling infrastructure, including for medium- and heavy-duty vehicles. TR-A1.13 Advocate for legislation requiring micromobility and other transportation technology providers to accept responsibility for and mitigate the unique physical, operational, and financial impacts of their services, such as abandoned mobility devices, upon local jurisdictions. See also the Health and Safety Element for policies and actions related to GHG emissions, air quality, and parking lot shading. Goal TR-2 Goal TR-2 A transportation system that protects human life. 5 -8 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element Policies TR-P2.1 Pursue the priorities identified in the County’s Vision Zero and other safety programs, through prioritization of safety projects and incorporation of safety considerations into all transportation planning efforts. TR-P2.2 Minimize conflicts between vehicles and people who walk, bike, or use micromobility through careful site planning, paying particular attention to driveway locations and internal pedestrian circulation, and prioritizing safety for active modes of travel. TR-P2.3 Provide or Rrequire new projects to installation of, or provide, energy-efficient street lighting to improve public safety and comfort in urbanized areas. Prioritize installation in Impacted Communities, particularly at parks, transit stops, alleyways, bike and pedestrian paths, trails, and other appropriatehigh-need areas, consistent with community preferences. Actions TR-A2.1 Maintain a Vision Zero Working Group to regularly review collision data and evaluate the effectiveness of Vision Zero and other safety strategies. TR-A2.2 Identify and address neighborhood-specific issues and needs in Impacted Communities, prioritizing installation of sidewalks, enhanced crosswalks, street lighting, street trees, bicycling infrastructure, transit stop amenities, traffic calming, and other safety and comfort improvements, especially in residential areas and near schools, libraries, and recreational facilities. Explore innovative methods to ensure these facilities are maintained. Engage school districts, neighborhood groups, and the local Safe Routes to School Program in implementing this action. TR-A2.3 Coordinate with the California Public Utilities Commission and railroads to design and implement projects that address safety concerns and conflicts from at-grade rail crossings. See the Health and Safety Element for policies and actions related to evacuation. COORDINATED PLANNING Contra Costa County is part of a regional transportation network. Residents and workers have access to a variety of transportation options for intra- county and regional travel. The Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) serves as the Congestion Management Agency (CMA) for the county and distributes sales tax revenue to the County, cities, and transit agencies for projects and programs like freeway improvements, local road maintenance, public transit enhancements, and Safe Routes to School. CCTA prepares and implements the Countywide Transportation Plan (CTP) and its associated voter-approved Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element 5 -9 Expenditure Plan to guide development of the future transportation system in Contra Costa County. To distribute transportation funding equitably and appropriately, CCTA divides the county into five subregions, each administered by a Regional Transportation Planning Committee. Unincorporated Contra Costa County is spread among all five subregions: ● The West County subregion is administered by the West Contra Costa Transportation Advisory Committee (WCCTAC). ● The Central County subregion is administered by the Transportation Partnership and Cooperation Committee (TRANSPAC). ● The Lamorinda and Tri Valley subregions are administered by the Southwest Area Transportation Committee (SWAT). ● The East County subregion is administered by the TRANSPLAN Committee. Due to the county’s diverse physical and demographic landscape, each subregion is governed by an Action Plan tailored to address its distinct transportation needs. The Action Plans and CTP also set quantifiable Regional Transportation Objectives (RTOs) to meet goals on Routes of Regional Significance, which are shown in Figure TR-2. Over time, the County implements projects and programs in the unincorporated areas to improve the transportation network and ultimately contribute to achieving the RTOs. For the larger Bay Area region, the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG)/Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) coordinate transportation planning and financing and administer regional plans that promote sustainable growth, including the Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy, known as Plan Bay Area 2050, and guide funding and policy decisions for the region. Goal TR-3 Policies TR-P3.1 Maintain an inclusive and orderly approach to interagency, interdepartmental, and stakeholder coordination on long-range capital planning and the design of specific transportation projects, including consultation with affected community and stakeholder organizations and appropriate commissions and committees. TR-P3.2 Coordinate planning, construction, and maintenance of streets, transit infrastructure, non-motorized rights-of-way and associated facilities, the countywide bicycle network, and Pedestrian Priority Areas with neighboring jurisdictions and CCTA.* Goal TR-3 Transportation facilities and services that are planned, funded, built, and maintained in a coordinated, cooperative, and effective manner. 5 -10 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element FIGURE TR-2 ROUTES OF REGIONAL SIGNIFICANCE Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element 5 -11 TR-P3.3 Partner with cities, CCTA, and the San Francisco Bay Area Water Emergency Transportation Authority (WETA), and other involved agencies to plan and implement ferry service that benefits unincorporated county residents. TR-P3.4 Work with project applicants and property owners to establish community facilities districts or other funding mechanisms to pay for construction, operation, and maintenance of new transportation infrastructure and programs without creating an undue financial burden on existing residents, businesses, or the County. Consider that new, innovative infrastructure may cost more to maintain than facilities installed in the past, and that the increase in ongoing maintenance costs is a potential reason to deny a development application. TR-P3.5 Pursue federalregional, State, and federalregional funding to augment locally generated funds to construct and maintain transportation infrastructure. Actions TR-A3.1 Coordinate with Caltrans, neighboring jurisdictions, CCTA, and the Regional Transportation Planning Committees to plan, design, and implement Complete Streets concepts on Routes of Regional Significance. TR-A3.2 Partner with CCTA, neighboring and regional agencies, and stakeholders to explore and implement options for transportation system funding, including assessment districts, county service areas, impact fees, tax revenue, and other funding sources. TR-A3.3 Continue updating the County’s Area of Benefit impact fee programs as a mechanism to collect fair-share contributions from new development and fund needed transportation improvements. See the Public Facilities and Services Element for policies and actions related to general infrastructure and infrastructure funding. MULTIMODAL ROADWAY NETWORK The local transportation system needs to serve all users and modes of transportation, with a focus on safety, accessibility, and convenient, efficient travel between origins and destinations in Contra Costa County. Enhancing mobility and connectivity for transit, bicycles, and pedestrians will also help reduce traffic congestion and pollution and promote public health. As interest in safe and sustainable transportation systems has grown, communities throughout California have been changing the transportation planning paradigm from a vehicle-centered exercise to a complete streets approach, in which all travel modes are accommodated in a balanced way based on the particular street’s location, land use context, and function within the circulation network. In 2016, Contra Costa County adopted its Complete Streets Policy that includes complete streets principles and implementation guidelines. The policy focuses on context-sensitive planning, the importance of considering user diversity (i.e., different user abilities and 5 -12 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element modes of travel), and a holistic approach that expects all involved County departments and all projects to include a complete streets focus. Roadway classifications help define the function of various street types in the transportation network, based on the level of traffic volume that can be served. Classifying roadways allows the County to monitor performance and plan for improvements needed to accommodate changes in traffic, as well as pedestrian and bicycle volumes over the life of this General Plan. Classifications are also necessary to ensure the County is eligible for roadway maintenance and improvement funding. This General Plan defines the County’s roadway network based on traditional categories recognized by regional, State, and federal transportation agencies. The roadway classifications included in the roadway network are described herein and shown on Figure TR-3. ● Freeways are high-speed facilities that move inter-city or regional traffic. Freeways that provide regional access to, from, and within Contra Costa County include Interstate (I-) 80, I-680, I-580, State Route (SR) 4, SR 24, SR 242, and SR 160. ● Arterials are relatively high-volume facilities that connect the regional roadway network to the local roadway network. Limited access is provided to abutting parcels in many cases. Arterial streets generally serve between 10,000 and 40,000 vehicles per day; some minor arterials serve fewer than 10,000 vehicles per day. Most intersections along arterials are signalized, often with a coordinated and interconnected signal system. Some of the primary arterials in Contra Costa County include Richmond Parkway, San Pablo Avenue, San Pablo Dam Road, Kirker Pass Road, Danville Boulevard/San Ramon Valley Boulevard, Camino Tassajara, Vasco Road, and Byron Highway. ● Collectors connect residential and local-serving commercial areas with the arterial system. Collector streets serve as principal traffic arteries within residential and commercial areas. These streets typically carry up to 10,000 vehicles per day, although some collectors may carry more vehicle traffic for short segments as they convey traffic between arterial streets and local residential streets. Collectors are often important segments of bikeway networks. ● Local roads provide circulation within neighborhoods and between adjacent land uses. They are typically low-speed, low-volume streets with design features that discourage through traffic to be more compatible with residential needs. San Pablo Dam Road in El Sobrante is classified as an arterial. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element 5 -13 FIGURE TR-3 ROADWAY CLASSIFICATIONS 5 -14 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element The roadway network in the southeastern part of the county will be significantly expanded with the planned SR 239 project, which will provide a direct connection between SR 4 and the I-580/I-205 corridor in Alameda and San Joaquin Counties. Although SR 239 has been a legislatively designated route since 1959, development of the facility didn’t begin gaining momentum until 2005, with the County receiving several federal earmarks. As of Fall 2023 the project is in design and environmental review. SR 239 is a large, multiphase project that is anticipated to take some time to build out. The Vasco Road - Byron Highway Connector, which among other things would enhance access to Byron Airport, is being planned as the first phase. The County plans for roadway improvements and maintenance through the Capital Road Improvement and Preservation Program (CRIPP), which is updated every two years to identify the status, estimated cost, funding source, and schedule for roadway projects anticipated over the next seven years. Similar to the Zoning Code, the CRIPP must be consistent with the General Plan. California Government Code Section 65401 requires portions of capital improvement plans and programs such as the CRIPP to be reviewed annually for General Plan consistency. This review is conducted by the County’s Transportation, Water, and Infrastructure Committee, a subcommittee of the Board of Supervisors. Goal TR-4 Policies TR-P4.1 Plan, design, and maintain improvement projects involving County roadways in accordance with the County’s adopted Complete Streets Policy, other applicable policies (e.g., Vision Zero and other safety initiatives), planning documents such as the County ATP and CCTA Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan, and best practices (e.g., Caltrans, American Association of State and Highway Transportation Officials, and National Association of City Transportation Officials guidance).* TR-P4.2 Require transportation infrastructure serving new development to be designed using best practices, contemplating existing and planned land uses, roadways, bicycle and pedestrian facilities, transit facilities, and connections to adjoining areas.* TR-P4.3 Create connections between unincorporated communities and neighborhoods in unincorporated areas and adjacent jurisdictions to improve multimodal access to local destinations, such as schools, parks, shopping, health services, and workplaces. TR-P4.4 Manage access points along arterial and collector roadways to minimize the number of new driveway or street-type intersections. Consolidate existing street and driveway intersections to limit conflict points as opportunities arise. Goal TR-4 A roadway network that accommodates multimodal travel options for all county residents, businesses, and visitors, regardless of age, ability, race, culture, or economic status. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element 5 -15 TR-P4.5 Require installation of, or provide, wayfinding signage (accessible to persons who are vision impaired) to aid navigation where necessary or desirable. TR-P4.6 Enhance streetscapes in nonresidential areas, making them more pedestrian-friendly and inviting by reducing setback and off-street parking and setback requirements and augmenting traffic-calming measures. TR-P4.7 Encourage walkability and safety by streamlining implementation of traffic-calming measures through the Neighborhood Traffic Management Program. TR-P4.8 Minimize speeding through residential neighborhoods by implementing appropriate roadway design standard, traffic-calming, and other holistic solutions, as well as enforcement. TR-P4.9 Protect residential neighborhoods from outside or cut- through traffic by implementing appropriate design solutions aimed at keeping through traffic on arterials and collectors. TR-P4.10 Design roadway infrastructure, including traffic-calming and complete streets features, to accommodate emergency response vehicles while maintaining the safety of vulnerable road users.* Actions TR-A4.1 UpdateReview the County Standard Plans at least once every five years for relevance and applicability and update on an as-needed basisas necessary to reflect best practices in context sensitivity, cComplete sStreets, travel safety, and environmental sustainability. TR-A4.2 Ensure that the CRIPP: (a) Reflects current and best transportation planning practices. (b) Implements adopted transportation and land development policies. (c) Complies with public review requirements. (d) Presents planned transportation system improvements with an implementation schedule. TR-A4.3 Develop guidance for managing curb space in ways that are sensitive to the land use context, with considerations for freight deliveries, parking, active transportation use, users with limited mobility, transportation network 5 -16 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element companies, outdoor dining, freight deliveries, parking, and other curb uses that may emerge. ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION Active transportation modes – i.e., walking, biking, micromobility, and other rolling forms of travel – support active lifestyles, which in turn support community health. Neighborhoods with safe and convenient walking and biking connections to parks, jobs, and schools provide residents with a healthier alternative to driving. The pedestrian network generally consists of sidewalks and multiuse trails. Sidewalks are provided in many neighborhoods, especially those developed since the 1960s, and commercial areas, but there are gaps throughout the network and older neighborhoods sometimes have no sidewalks at all. The bicycle network, which is shown on Figure TR-4 and includes a range of bikeway types, is less developed countywide. These networks are inclusive of “rolling” transportation, in which people may use a wheelchair, skate, ride a scooter, or push a stroller. Geographic barriers such as waterways, railways, and freeways pose challenges to pedestrian and bicycle/rolling circulation and connectivity. Expanding the pedestrian and bicycle network will enhance opportunities for active transportation and reduce dependency on the car. In 2022 the County adopted its Active Transportation Plan (ATP), which serves as a roadmap to enhancing active transportation safety and mode share by providing a comprehensive look at the County’s act ive transportation needs and opportunities. The ATP outlines investments in new bicycle facilities, upgraded crossings, enhanced trail connections, and improved walkways. Adopted by CCTA in 2018, the Contra Costa Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan (CBPP) identifies a network of “low-stress” routes that are comfortable for most pedestrians or bicyclists. Once developed, this network will allow people of all ages and abilities to connect across the county by walking or bicycling. Future bicycle connections planned by the CBPP are shown on Figure TR-4. The CBPP also identifies Pedestrian Priority Areas, shown on Figure TR-5, which are places where greater numbers of people are expected to walk and safety issues are most acute, indicating a need to prioritize investments in pedestrian improvements like walkways, curb ramps, and intersection improvements. With support from MTC, the County has also prepared two Community- Based Transportation Plans (CBTPs) in unincorporated areas near Richmond and Bay Point that intend to improve mobility options for low-income and underserved communities. The CBTPs seek to improve all types of transportation, increase access to services, improve the local quality of life, provide environmental benefits, and enhance the sense of community in the area. The Robert I. Schroder Overcrossing along the Iron Horse Trail is part of an important non- motorized regional connection between Pleasanton and Concord. . Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element 5 -17 FIGURE TR-4 EXISTING AND PLANNED BICYCLE NETWORK 5 -18 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element FIGURE TR-5 PEDESTRIAN PRIORITY AREAS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element 5 -19 Local bikeways are classified based on traditional categories recognized by regionalfederal, State, and federalregional transportation agencies. Each bikeway class is intended to provide bicyclists with safe and convenient riding conditions. Different bikeway designs offer various levels of separation from traffic based on traffic volume, speed, and other factors. There ar e four bikeway types: ● Class I bikeways (bike paths) provide completely separate facilities from automobiles and are designated for the exclusive use of bicyclists and pedestrians with minimal cross-flow automobile traffic. In Contra Costa County, these types of paths are often along creeks, canals, utility corridors, and former rail lines. Class I bikeways are often used for recreational and commute trips. ● Class II bikeways (bike lanes) provide designated street space for bicyclists, typically adjacent to the outer vehicle travel lanes. Bike lanes include special lane markings, pavement legends, and signage. Bike lanes may be enhanced with painted buffers between vehicle lanes and parking, and green paint along the bike lane or at conflict zones (such as driveways or intersections). ● Class III bikeways (bike routes) provide enhanced conditions for bicyclists through signage, striping, and traffic -calming treatments, and provide continuity to a bikeway network. Bike routes are typically designated along gaps between bike paths or bike lanes, or along low - volume, low-speed streets. Bicycle boulevards provide further enhancements to bike routes by encouraging slow speeds and discouraging non-local vehicle traffic, often through use of traffic- calming features. Bicycle boulevards can also feature special wayfinding signage to nearby destinations or other bikeways. ● Class IV bikeways (separated or protected bikeways), also referred to as cycle tracks, are bikeways for the exclusive use of bicycles, which are physically separated from vehicle traffic with a vertical element. Types of separation may include grade separation, plastic delineator posts, concrete dividers, or on-street parking. Pedestrian infrastructure such as signals, sidewalks, and crosswalks enhance safety. Goal TR-5 Goal TR-5 Support people who walk, bike, roll, or use mobility devices by creating safe, equitable, connected, and comfortable facilities for all ages and abilities. 5 -20 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element Policies TR-P5.1 Plan, design, construct, and maintain facilities for walking, bicycling, and rolling to serve people of all ages, abilities, and income levels, including children, seniors, families, and people with limited mobility. TR-P5.2 Coordinate with Caltrans to provide safe and comfortable highway interchange crossings for people of all ages and abilities who walk, bike, or use micromobility. TR-P5.3 Prioritize construction of capital improvement projects identified in the County’s ATP. TR-P5.4 Ensure that fee programs include active transportation facilities, and require new development to contribute funds, right-of-way, and/or provide active transportation facilities themselves, where feasible.* TR-P5.5 Maintain pedestrian and active transportation facilities to the same standard as roads and other transportation infrastructure, including repair and cleanup of all bikeway types and shared-use pathways. TR-P5.6 Support use of temporary, quick-build, demonstration, and pilot pedestrian and bicycle improvements to test their effectiveness and promote active transportation strategies to the public. TR-P5.7 Encourage walking, bicycling, and micromobility as the travel modes of choice for short to medium-length trips, such as trips to schools, parks, transit stops, local shopping areas, and neighborhood services. TR-P5.8 Partner with neighboring jurisdictions, transit agencies, community members, and business organizations to plan and construct sustainable streets in business and commercial areas. Consider forming community facilities districts or business improvement districts to help fund and maintain improvements. TR-P1.1TR-P5.9 Consider allowingproposals for temporary and permanent re-orientation of public space towards increased outdoor activity, includingsuch as walking, bicycling, rolling, dining, and other social uses. TR-P5.9TR-P5.10 Support micromobility options such as bike-, e-bike-, and e-scooter-share. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element 5 -21 TR-P5.10TR-P5.11 Require generous parking for bicycles and other mobility devices at key destinations, such as shopping centers, parks, schools, workplacesemployment centers, transit stations, and multiple-family housing. This parking should be conveniently located near entrances, include charging infrastructure, and accommodate cargo bikes when appropriate for the land use. Actions TR-A5.1 Partner with CCTA and neighboring jurisdictions to build out the countywide bicycle and pedestrian network, prioritizing completion of the Low-Stress Countywide Bicycle Network and pedestrian safety improvement projects in the County’s Pedestrian Priority Areas, as described in the Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan. TR-A5.2 Construct innovative bicycle and pedestrian facilities, including Class IV separated and protected bikeways, bicycle superhighways, and other low-stress facility types, as described in the Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan and in contemporary, best-practice transportation planning and engineering guidance. Use contextually appropriate green infrastructure and landscaping to separate vehicular lanes from bicycle and pedestrian facilities whenever feasible. TR-A5.3 Periodically rReview the scoring formula for active transportation projects at least once every five years to ensure continued prioritization of projects in Impacted Communities. TR-A5.4 Partner with the cities, EBRPD, and CCTA to develop uniform guidance to manage active micromobility services. TR-A5.5 Evaluate the feasibility and appropriateness of the following when updating the ATP and CRIPP: (a) Installing bikeways along all segments of Routes of Regional Significance within the County’s jurisdiction. (b) Restriping arterials and collectors to include bikeways whenever major maintenance occurs. (c) Installing bikeways and sidewalks along arterials and collectors to the limits of adjacent jurisdictions. (d) Installing bicycle detection systems, bicycle signals, bicycle boxes, and pavement markings at new and retrofitted traffic signals. (a)(e) Installing crosswalks at all legs of signalized intersections. See the Public Facilities and Services Element for additional policies and actions related to the countywide trail network. 5 -22 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element GOODS MOVEMENT Industry and commercial enterprises in Contra Costa County are served by a goods movement system that includes rail, port, truck, and air facilities. As shown on Figure TR-6, all freeways in the county are designated as State truck routes. I-80 and I-680 are the principal north-south corridors and connect to neighboring industrial hubs, while SR 4 is the principal east -west transportation corridor serving the industrial areas of the 55-mile Northern Waterfront. Two major transcontinental railroads, Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) and Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR), follow the county’s western and northern shorelines, connecting the Northern Waterfront to the rest of the county, and serving ports and major rail facilities in Oakland and Richmond. The Port of Richmond, within the Richmond city limits, is a deep-water port that connects the county to markets regionally and farther afield. Deep - water shipping channels along the Northern Waterfront connect to the Ports of Sacramento and Stockton. Finally, Buchanan Field Airport in Concord is capable of handling small cargo aircraft. While goods movement is an essential component of daily life and the economy, it can cause severe health and quality of life impacts for residents who are exposed to air pollution, noise, and the potential for accidents from from nearby trains, ships, trucks, and planes. In Contra Costa County, heavy- duty truck emissions at industrial facilities and on local roads and freeways is a significant contributor to health disparities, especially in Impacted Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element 5 -23 FIGURE TR-6 GOODS MOVEMENT FACILITIES 5 -24 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element Communities. Given these and other concerns, goods movement is heavily regulated by by federal and State agencies, including the California Air Resources Board, which restricts idling times for heavy-duty trucks to minimize localized air pollution. Contra Costa County is part of the global shipping economy through various local ports, marine terminals, and railroads. Goal TR-6 Policies TR-P6.1 Partner with neighboring jurisdictions, CCTA, and the MTC to manage regional movement of goods through unincorporated areas, minimizing impacts on residents and other sensitive receptors. TR-P6.2 Support roadway improvements that facilitate regional goods movement, such as construction of SR 239 and the Vasco Road-Byron Highway Connector near Byron, and replacement of the Old River Bridge near Discovery Bay. TR-P6.3 Work with ABAG/MTC to improve resilience, speed, and reliability of goods movement through expansion of smaller ports-of-entry which will increase redundancy, thereby limiting exposure to disruptive events at larger congested ports. TR-P6.4 Use all available policy tools to ensure that trucks use designated truck routes. TR-P6.5 Work with railroads to preserve non-operational contiguous railroad rights-of-way, and highly encourage construction of grade-separated railroad crossings along active lines to support current and future rail operations and ensure the long-term viability of these rail corridors. Goal TR-6 Safe and efficient movement of goods consistent with the County's goals to reduce emissions, protect public safety, and support economic development, local access, and circulation. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element 5 -25 When no longer in operation, maintain options for future use of the corridors for trails or other public purposes. TR-P6.6 Support development of short-line railroad infrastructure and operations in industrial areas to facilitate rail access to Class I railroad lines, attract potential businesses seeking rail-served properties, ease traffic congestion caused by goods movement on regional highways, and reduce GHG emissions. TR-P6.7 Support deepening and ongoing maintenance of the deep-water ship channels between San Francisco Bay and Stockton and continued deep-water access to the county’s Northern Waterfront. TR-P6.8 Support continued operation, maintenance, and further development of ports and terminals consistent with federal, State, and County environmental policies and economic priorities. Actions TR-A6.1 Develop a program to establish and maintain truck routes, with the goal of minimizing impacts on residents and other sensitive receptors. This program will provide engineering and policy solutions to divert trucks from Impacted Communities and establish criteria for designating weight limits on certain routes and installing physical barriers and signage. TR-A6.2 Facilitate enforcement of idling restrictions by promoting community-based reporting to enforcement agencies. TR-A6.3 Amend County Ordinance Code Title 9 – Subdivisions to require new multiple-family residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments to designate areas adequate for package and goods deliveries and passenger loading and unloading. TR-A6.4 Develop regulations responding to technological advancements in freight movement, such as autonomous vehicles, robotics, and drone deliveries, while supporting the County’s goals for reducing emissions, adapting to climate change, improving public safety, and increasing equitable mobility. See the Health and Safety Element for policies and actions related to protecting the transportation network, including rail, from sea-level rise. AIR MOBILITY Contra Costa County has two public County-owned airports: Buchanan Field Airport near Concord and Byron Airport, south of Byron. Buchanan Field Airport provides general aviation, recreation, emergency response, law enforcement, passenger, cargo, and charter services. The airport is surrounded by urban development, which limits its potential for expansion. Byron Airport serves general aviation functions and is a popular base for 5 -26 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element skydivers, gliders, and other recreational flight activities. Byron Airport also serves as a testing ground for new aviation technologies. Airports influence surrounding land uses for up to three miles from the runways, affecting unincorporated and incorporated areas. To protect public safety and the long-term operations of the airports, the County’s Airport Land Use Commission adopted the Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (ALUCP), which regulates the location of land uses near both airports through the designation of Airport Land Use Compatibility Zones (see Figure TR-7). Specifically, the ALUCP seeks to protect the public from adverse effe cts of aircraft noise, ensure people and facilities are not concentrated in areas susceptible to aircraft accidents, and ensure no structures or activities adversely affect navigable airspace. Emerging technologies will influence future air mobility, including vertical takeoff and landing aircraft that can expand air mobility options for people and cargo to places that had previously lacked air access. Such aircraft can be served by vertiports that are specifically designed for this technology and take up smaller spaces than traditional airports. Buchanan Field is one of two general aviation airports in Contra Costa County. Goal TR-7 Policies TR-P7.1 Partner with other agencies to obtain funding for planning, development, improvement, operation, and maintenance of general and commercial aviation facilities. Goal TR-7 Safe and viable general and commercial aviation activities in Contra Costa County. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element 5 -27 TR-P7.2 Work with the Federal Aviation Administration and aviation operators to minimize conflicts with residential areas and other sensitive receptors. TR-P7.3 Regulate the location of private airfields and heliports to protect public safety and minimize impacts on nearby residents and sensitive receptors.* TR-P7.4 Protect the County’s airports from encroachment by incompatible uses and minimize the public’s exposure to safety hazards and excessive noise by ensuring that all future development within each Airport Influence Area is consistent with the Contra Costa County ALUCP.* 5 -28 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element FIGURE TR-7 BUCHANAN FIELD AIRPORT AND BYRON AIRPORT COMPATIBILITY ZONES Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element 5 -29 TR-P7.5 Partner with the cities of Concord and Pleasant Hill in making land use decisions that support Buchanan Field Airport's ongoing viability while protecting public safety, consistent with the Airport Master Plan and ALUCP. TR-P7.6 Enhance Byron Airport’s viability by protecting it from incompatible urban encroachment, such as large-scale residential development, and providing infrastructure that supports existing and planned airport activities, consistent with the Airport Master Plan and ALUCP. TR-P7.7 Embrace emerging aviation-related technologies, such as drones, electric-powered aviation, and vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, to promote economic development and support the County’s goals for reducing emissions, adapting to climate change, improving public safety, and increasing equitable mobility. Actions TR-A7.1 Update the ALUCP every 5 to 10 years to maintain consistency with applicable federal and State requirements, regional plans, and this General Plan, and to achieve the County’s goals for Buchanan Field Airport and Byron Airport. TR-A7.2 TR-A7.2 Switch to sale of unleaded aviation gasoline at County- owned airports as soon as there is a commercially viable and safe drop-in replacement for leaded fuel. TRANSPORTATION ELEMENT PERFORMANCE MEASURES To track progress in achieving the major goals of this Element, every five years, the County will collect data to assess its performance against the following measures. Progress will be tracked relative to the prior performance review and the baseline year of 2024. Based on the findings from the five-year review, the County may adjust policies, actions, or the approach to implementing them to improve performance, as needed. ● Reduced per-capita VMT. ● Reduced single-occupant vehicle mode share. ● Increased bicycle and pedestrian trips. ● Reduced average commute time for county residents. ● Increased ZEV charging and fueling infrastructure. ● Reduced number of roadway collisions involving fatalities and serious injuries. 5 -30 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Transportation Element This page intentionally left blank. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -1 7 CONSERVATION, OPEN SPACE, AND WORKING LANDS ELEMENT Contra Costa County encompasses a large geographic area containing diverse species, habitats, open spaces, working lands, and natural and cultural resources. This Element promotes conservation, preservation, and enhancement of these critical assets. It is organized around the following nine sections: ● The Open Space Framework section includes policy guidance to conserve open space throughout the county to protect ecological resources, provide recreation opportunities, and improve resilience to climate change-related impacts. ● The Agricultural Resources and Working Lands section includes policy guidance to protect agricultural lands from conversion to urban uses and support a thriving agricultural economy. ● The Ecological Resources and Natural Systems section includes policy guidance to preserve and enhance important ecological resources, including creeks, wetlands, riparian areas, and upland habitat. ● The Water Resources section includes policy guidance to sustainably manage surface water and groundwater resources, and protect and enhance the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta and shoreline areas. ● The Historic and Cultural Resources section includes policy guidance to support identification and preservation of archaeological, historic, and tribal resources in the county, and underscores a commitment to consult and collaborate with local tribes throughout the planning process. ● The Scenic Resources section includes policy guidance to protect the abundant scenic resources in the county, including scenic routes, scenic ridges, and other natural features with scenic value. ● The Mineral Resources section includes policy guidance to support mineral extraction operations, which are an important part of the regional economy, while avoiding land use conflicts and negative environmental impacts. ● The Energy Resources section includes policy guidance to conserve energy and support a transition to zero-carbon-free energy sources, such as wind and solar. ● The Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element Performance Measures describe how the County will track its progress in achieving some of the major objectives expressed in this Element. This General Plan highlights policies and actions that address four major themes that serve as a framework for the Plan. For the reader’s ease, policies and actions related to these themes are identified throughout the General Plan using the following icons. The policies and actions related to each theme are also compiled in Appendix A. See Chapter 1 for more information about each theme. Community Health Environmental Justice Economic Development Sustainability 7 -2 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element OPEN SPACE FRAMEWORK Contra Costa County is a unique place where the greater San Francisco Bay Area, Delta, and Central Valley meet. Well over a third of the county’s unincorporated area is designated for resource conservation, open space, and parks and recreation uses. EBRPD manages numerous recreational open spaces, including Briones Regional Park. Major open space landowners operating at the local level in Contra Costa County include: ● East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD), which owns and manages over 65,000 acres of parkland in the county. ● East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD), which owns and manages almost 27,000 acres of watershed land in the areas around San Pablo, Briones, and San Leandro Reservoirs. ● Contra Costa Water District (CCWD), which owns and manages approximately 20,000 acres of watershed land surrounding Los Vaqueros Reservoir. Among the State agencies owning land in Contra Costa County, the California Department of Parks and Recreation (CDPR) owns the most. The 20,000-acre Mount Diablo State Park, surrounding the iconic 3,849-foot peak of Mount Diablo, is the most well-known State park in the county. In addition, land trusts like Save Mount Diablo, John Muir Land Trust, and Agricultural -Natural Resources Trust work in tandem with the local community to conserve open space. These open spaces are diverse in size and character, ranging from the wetlands and marshes at the gateway to the Delta, to the rugged and wooded 2,800-acre Wildcat Canyon Regional Park, nestled in the Berkeley Hills. Each open space area is defined by a combination of resources, habitats, and agency jurisdiction that require different approaches to preservation, rewilding, and interagency coordination. These open spaces comprise an integrated natural network supporting the county’s livability and resiliency to climate change, and are important recreational and scenic resources highly valued by the community. The County therefore partners with other agencies, such as those discussed above and the Contra Costa Resource Conservation District (RCD), and non-profit organizations to ensure that these resources are protected. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -3 Delta waterways are an important open space feature in East County. Goal COS-1 Policies COS-P1.1 Support efforts by public agencies and nonprofit organizations to acquire and permanently protect open space areas containing important ecological or scenic resources and areas that connect protected lands to form a cohesive system of open space. Plan infrastructure to avoid interfering with such acquisitions whenever possible. COS-P1.2 Pursue opportunities for permanent open space dedication for habitat, scenic, or passive recreation benefits as part of future development approvals and major capital improvement projects. COS-P1.3 Discourage conversion of land designated Resource Conservation or Parks and Recreation to urban uses. If such conversion is to occurs, require mitigation through permanent protection of other open space or park lands for habitat, scenic, or recreation benefits at a ratio to be determined based on the biological, scenic, or recreational value of the land, but not less than 3:1.* COS-P1.4 Require new projects adjacent to protected open space areas, such as EBRPD lands, to establish buffers on their properties as necessary to minimize conflicts and protect the open space. If conflicts arise between protected open spaces and other uses, prioritize maintaining the viability of the open space functions.* Actions COS-A1.1 Convene an annual staff-level meeting with involvedconservation agencies, such as (e.g., the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy, and EBRPD,), land trusts, and conservation groupsorganizations (land trusts, watershed stewardship groups, etc.) to review Goal COS-1 Preserved open space for environmental protection, resource management and production, recreation, scenic value, and climate resilience and adaptation. 7 -4 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element current and planned efforts to protect and maintain open space and habitat. See the Land Use Element for additional policies and actions related to the Urban Limit Line and open space uses. AGRICULTURAL RESOURCES AND WORKING LANDS Agricultural Resource Areas There are approximately 254,500 acres of agricultural land mapped by the State in Contra Costa County, most of it in the unincorporated area. The California Department of Conservation’s Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program (FMMP) maps land by agricultural production potential using the following categories: ● Prime Farmland has the best combination of physical and chemical features able to sustain long-term agricultural production. Prime Farmland has the soil quality, growing season, and moisture supply needed to produce sustained high yields. ● Farmland of Statewide Importance is similar to Prime Farmland, but with minor shortcomings, such as steeper slopes or less ability to store soil moisture. ● Unique Farmland consists of lesser-quality soils used for producing the state’s leading agricultural crops. This land is usually irrigated but may include non-irrigated orchards or vineyards, as found in some climatic zones in California. ● Farmland of Local Importance consists of dryland grains and irrigated pastures not meeting the definitions of Prime Farmland, Farmland of Statewide Importance, or Unique Farmland. ● Grazing Land is land on which the existing vegetation is suited to the grazing of livestock. These categories are used to determine impacts to agricultural land under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Figure COS-1 shows agricultural land in the unincorporated county as mapped by the FMMP. In addition to the FMMP, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) maps prime productive agricultural soils, which are classified as Class I and 2 soils and considered the very best soils for farming. As shown in Figure COS-2, these soils are primarily in East County. Agricultural land and farmworker labor yield valuable crops in Contra Costa County. Agricultural lands provide additional benefits outside the traditional crop and agricultural product yield. These lands can provide natural habitats and Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -5 support ecological functions, while sequestering carbon to support climate stability. Agricultural lands, when managed appropriately, can also serve as strategic wildfire resilience assets by acting as a buffer between fire-prone landscapes and communities. 7 -6 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element FIGURE COS-1 AGRICULTURAL LAND Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -7 FIGURE COS-2 PRIME PRODUCTIVE AGRICULTURAL SOILS 7 -8 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element The County realizes the multiple benefits of agriculture and has implemented various programs and regulations to support agricultural land conservation. These include the Agricultural Land Conservation Ordinance, which implements the Williamson Act by allowing property owners to receive a reduced property tax rate in exchange for keeping land in agricultural production, and the Right-to-Farm Ordinance, which protects farms from nuisance complaints. The County also promotes integrated pest management (IPM) strategies to support healthy crops while reducing use of harmful chemicals and associated impacts to the environment. Grazing goats can eliminate weeds and reduce wildfire risks as an IPM strategy. Photo credit: Contra Costa Health Integrated Pest Management Goal COS-2 Policies COS-P2.1 Preserve large, contiguous areas of the county for agricultural production. ProhibitDeny applications for projects that would lead to fragmentation of agricultural areas.* COS-P2.2 Preserve and protect productive agricultural land from conversion to urban uses, especially land designated as Prime Farmland, Farmland of Statewide Importance, or Unique Farmland on the Important Farmland Map prepared by the California Department of Conservation; land containing Class 1 or Class 2 soils; and land designated Agricultural Core.* COS-P2.3 Require a 40-acre-minimum parcel size for subdivisions of prime productive agricultural land (i.e., Class 1 and Class 2 soils). COS-P2.4 NEW POLICY Consult with the Delta Protection Commission to identify Goal COS-2 A thriving and resilient agricultural sector based on resource conservation and sustainability practices. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -9 mitigation strategies as relevant, if a change in land use that converts agriculture would significantly affect the sustainability of the Delta agricultural economy. X NEW POLICY Screen proposals for conversion of agricultural land in the Primary Zone to avoid conversion of highly productive lands… COS-P2.4COS-P2.5 Require new projects adjacent to agriculture to establish buffers on their properties as necessary to minimize conflicts and protect agriculture. Determine appropriate Bbuffers may be established in consultation with the County Agricultural Commissioner.* COS-P2.5COS-P2.6 When resolving conflicts between agricultural uses and urban uses, prioritize maintaining the viability of the agricultural uses. COS-P2.6COS-P2.7 Require deed disclosures for new residential development in or adjacent to areas designated or zoned for agricultural use. The disclosures must explain the potential disturbances associated with agricultural operations (e.g., dust, noise, odors, and use of pesticides) and reference the Right-to-Farm Ordinance, which protects agricultural operations from nuisance complaints and unreasonable restrictions.* COS-P2.7COS-P2.8 Encourage owners of qualifying agricultural land to participate in the Williamson Act (Agricultural Preserve) Program. COS-P2.8COS-P2.9 Support public infrastructure projects and programs that will increase, enhance, and protect agricultural land and its production capabilities. COS-P2.9COS-P2.10 Coordinate with Byron-Bethany Irrigation District and East Contra Costa Irrigation District to facilitate water conservation, efficient use of agricultural irrigation water, and implementation of emerging water reuse technologies and practices. COS-P2.10COS-P2.11 Support soil conservation and restoration programs. Encourage agricultural landowners to work with agencies such as the USDA’s NRCS and Contra Costa RCD to reduce erosion and soil loss. COS-P2.11COS-P2.12 Support efforts to protect, maintain, and improve soil health as a carbon sequestration tool. COS-P2.12COS-P2.13 7 -10 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element Partner with the agricultural community and University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE) to support regenerative agriculture practices that maintain agricultural viability. COS-P2.13COS-P2.14 Encourage IPM practices that reduce the use of agricultural pesticides and minimize pesticide drift, and discourage farming practices that may expose residents, water resources, and the environment to fine particulates and harmful chemicals. Actions COS-A2.1 Review each update of the California Department of Conservation FMMP data and report to the Board of Supervisors on the quantity of land in the county converted to and from agricultural use. COS-A2.2 Work with the agricultural community, Contra Costa LAFCO, and cities to establish programs and mechanisms to protect agricultural resources, such as preservation agreements, conservation easements, an agricultural soils trust fund, and agricultural mitigation fees. COS-A2.3 Conduct a study of potential Transfer or Purchase of Development Rights (TDR/PDR) programs to address development pressures and preserve agricultural land. The study should determine: (a) Overall feasibility and usefulness toward implementing the County’s agricultural preservation goals. (b) Specific mechanisms that could be used. (c) Geographic areas where these mechanisms could be used. (d) Organizational and administrative requirements. (e) Cost to the County and potential revenue sources. COS-A2.4 Amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to include development standards, and possibly adopt accompanying design guidelines, for urban land uses that interface with agricultural uses, addressing, at minimum: (a) Setbacks on urban properties to provide a buffer for agricultural uses. (b) Location and arrangement of buildings, structures, and uses on urban properties. (c) Lighting, fencing, screening, and appropriate landscaping/vegetation. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -11 COS-A2.5 Review the Williamson Act Program to identify potential areas for improvement, such as: (a) Expanding the range of allowable uses to include wildlife habitat areas. (b) Increasing enforcement of non-compliant properties. (c) Ensuring agricultural conservation commitments are adequate to justify inclusion in the Program. (d) Creating a mechanism to ensure rezoning of properties no longer under a Williamson Act contract. See the Land Use Element for additional policies and actions related to agricultural areas and the Health and Safety Element for additional policies related to soil health in support of carbon sequestration. Agricultural Economy Contra Costa County’s rich soils, climate, and reliable water supplies have allowed generations of farmers to produce an array of outstanding crops. Contra Costa farmers have grown a wide variety of food for the Bay Area and beyond since the Gold Rush, from vast winter wheat fields in the 1880s to sweet corn, stone fruits, vegetables, olives, wine grapes, and beef today. East County has a long history of agricultural tourism, including U -pick farms going back to the 1970s. The unique combination of world-class growing conditions, proud farming tradition, and proximity to major metropolitan areas makes agriculture one of the county’s most important assets. Peppers are harvested in East Contra Costa County. (Community-submitted photo) As of 2021, Contra Costa County ranked 36th out of California’s 58 counties in total agricultural production, with a $109.4 million value, despite being 51st in land mass. Cattle and calves, sweet corn, tomatoes, grapes, and cherries are the highest-grossing agricultural yields in the county. Future economic opportunities for Contra Costa County agriculture include: ● Demand for organic products. ● Demand for locally-grown, healthy, and sustainably produced food. ● Potential to expand value-added food processing, manufacturing, co- processing, and co-packing across the county. ● Expanded agricultural tourism. 7 -12 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element U-pick farms offer opportunities to experience agriculture firsthand and support the local farming community. The Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development (DCD) and Department of Agriculture, Weights, and Measures seek to promote and protect the county’s agricultural industry, crops, and rangelands. The future of the county’s agricultural economy is supported by local agriculturalists introducing innovative approaches to farming and seeking creative ways to reintroduce farming culture and recapture earnings. Goal COS-3 Policies COS-P3.1 Support development of public and private infrastructure and services needed to support agriculture. COS-P3.2 Support efforts to promote and market locally grown and value-added agricultural products. COS-P3.3 Enable farmers to showcase farm products grown on-site and elsewhere within the county and offer on-site farm experiences, such as culinary classes, farm-to-table meals, tastings, and special events, while maintaining the character and integrity of the surrounding agricultural landscape. COS-P3.4 Enable farmers and ranchers to provide small-scale, short- term guest accommodations in a manner that is non- disruptive to the rural setting. Goal COS-3 A thriving, sustainable, and competitive agricultural economy. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -13 COS-P3.5 Assist the agricultural community through the County's economic development programs. COS-P3.6 Support the Contra Costa RCD in carrying out its mission to assist farmers and ranchers through programs that conserve natural resources and build a strong farming community. COS-P3.7 Support rural property owners who apply to the Contra Costa LAFCO to detach agricultural land outside the Urban Limit Line (ULL) from special districts that provide urban services. COS-P3.8 Allow farmworker and farm family housing in agricultural areas to meet the needs of locally employed seasonal and permanent farmworkers. Actions COS-A3.1 Establish a mitigation program to offset conversion of working lands (irrigated and intensively cultivated agricultural lands and rangeland) to nonagricultural uses. The program will define the types of land conversions requiring mitigation, mitigation ratios, acceptable mitigation locations, allowable conservation instruments, and use of in-lieu fees.* COS-A3.2 Partner with the agricultural community and agencies such as the Delta Protection Commission to obtain funding for design, installation, and ongoing maintenance of proper signage promoting agriculture in the county, including wayfinding signage for agricultural tourism (e.g., U-pick, lodging, food service, winery) uses. COS-A3.3 Designate a staff position in DCD to serve as a point of contact to guide members of the agricultural community in understanding the processes at DCD, help DCD staff understand the particular needs of the agricultural community, and coordinate with other agencies, such as the Contra Costa RCD, USDA NRCS, UCCE, County Department of Agriculture, Weights, and Measures, and County Environmental Health Division. COS-A3.4 Work with the agricultural community and UCCE to promote education, training, information-sharing programs, and networking opportunities for farmers, ranchers, and agricultural agencies to increase agriculture’s resilience to climate change hazards. COS-A3.5 Coordinate with the Contra Costa RCD, USDA NRCS, UCCE, Contra Costa Mosquito and Vector Control District, County Department of Agriculture, Weights, and 7 -14 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element Measures, and County Environmental Health Division to support sustainable and resilient agricultural operations through vegetation and pest management programs, best management practices, technical assistance related to soil health, funding opportunities for efficient irrigation infrastructure, and information about alternative crop types that are drought-, heat-, and severe weather- resistant. See the Land Use Element for additional policies and actions on the Urban Limit Line and agricultural lands. ECOLOGICAL RESOURCES AND NATURAL SYSTEMS Ecological Resource Areas Ecological resource areas contain the county's most important biological resources and cultivate biodiversity. The County partners with a variety of public agencies to manage and protect these and other natural resources. The East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservancy oversees implementation of the East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservation Plan/Natural Community Conservation Plan (HCP/NCCP), which provides regional conservation and development guidelines to protect natural resources while improving and streamlining the permit process for projects that will impact endangered species and sensitive habitat. The HCP/NCCP allows local agencies to authorize endangered species permitting for activities and projects in the region, while providing comprehensive species, wetlands, and ecosystem conservation and contributing to the recovery of endangered species in northern California. The area covered by the HCP/NCCP totals over 174,000 acres and is shown in Figure COS-3. The HCP/NCCP mainly offsets ecological impacts by conserving and restoring lands in a Preserve System. The Preserve System ultimately will encompass between 23,800 and 30,300 acres that will be acquired and managed to benefit the 28 plant and animal species covered by the HCP/NCCP, as well as the natural communities that they, and hundreds of other species, depend on for habitat. During the first 15 years of HCP/NCCP implementation, 432 properties were acquired for the Preserve System, totaling over 14,400 acres. All but one of the acquisitions were completed in partnership with EBRPD. In addition to the HCP/NCCP, the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG)/Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) have identified Priority Conservation Areas (PCAs) throughout the county and region. These areas, for which there is broad consensus on the need for long-term protection given the ecological resources present and urban development pressures, are eligible for conservation grants through the One Bay Area Grant Program. PCAs in Contra Costa County total over 135,000 acres and are shown on Figure COS-4. Goal COS-4 Policies COS-P4.1 Maintain ecologically significant resource areas in their Goal COS-4 Preserved and enhanced ecological resources and wildlife habitat. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -15 natural state to the greatest extent possible. Limit development in and near these areas to compatible low- intensity uses with adequate provisions to protect sensitive resources, including setbacks around resource areas. Prohibit projects that would lead to fragmentation of ecologically significant resource areas.* COS-P4.2 Support land conservation and restoration consistent with the HCP/NCCP and discourage development in areas where such conservation is planned, as shown on Figure COS-3. Support actions to preserve land and resources within PCAs mapped by ABAG, as shown on Figure COS-4. COS-P4.3 Require a biological resources assessment prepared according to State and federal protocols for projects with the potential to impact rare, threatened, endangered, or special-status species or their habitat, and implement appropriate mitigation for identified impacts, preferably near the impact and within the county.* COS-P4.4 Protect habitat and wildlife migration corridors, including natural and channelized creeks providing habitat in urban settings, and support projects that enhance these areas.* COS-P4.5 Discourage the use of fencing that poses risks to wildlife.* COS-P4.6 NEW POLICY Require projects that impacting Pacific Flyway habitat in the Delta Primary Zone to incorporate mitigation that ensuresensuringthat ensures no net loss of habitat function, including temporal loss. Impacts to Pacific Flyway habitat will be determined based on best available information at the time of environmental review. COS-P4.7 NEW POLICY Require projects near sensitive habitat areas to minimize lighting in general and mitigate light pollution by incorporating best practices for wildlife-friendly lighting. 7 -16 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element FIGURE COS-3 EAST CONTRA COSTA COUNTY HABITAT CONSERVATION PLAN/NATURAL COMMUNITY CONSERVATION PLAN AREA Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -17 FIGURE COS-4 PRIORITY CONSERVATION AREAS 7 -18 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element COS-P4.6COS-P4.8 Require appropriately-timed, comprehensive floristic and vegetation surveys prepared according to State and federal protocols when development is proposed on land with potentially suitable habitat for special-status plant species, sensitive natural plant communities, or locally rare plants, including areas mapped by the California Native Plant Society as Botanical Priority Protection Areas.* COS-P4.7COS-P4.9 Require avoidance and protection of sensitive ecological resources not approved for disturbance or removal during project entitlement, and require restitution in exceedance of standard mitigation ratios for deliberate or inadvertent damage to these resources.* COS-P4.8COS-P4.10 Require majority use of California native plant species in landscaping forlarge landscaped areas in new developments, and require construction practices that avoid spread of invasive plant species by minimizing surface disturbance; seeding and mulching disturbed areas with certified weed-free native mixes; disinfecting/ decontaminating equipment; and using native, noninvasive, drought-resistant species in erosion-control plantings.* COS-P4.9COS-P4.11 Support preservation, enhancement, and reestablishment of native and sport fisheries and reestablishment of fisheries in streams wherever possible. Assist conservation agencies and organizations with identifying and addressing barriers to fish passage and other challenges to fish survival in natural watercourses. Actions COS-A4.1 For the portion of the county not covered by the HCP/NCCP, prepare and maintain a similarly detailed inventory of ecologically significant resource areas, including unique natural areas, wetlands, floodplains, riparian resources, and the habitat of rare, threatened, endangered, and other uncommon and protected species.* COS-A4.2 Amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to include development standards, and possibly adopt accompanying design guidelines, for urban land uses that interface with ecologically significant resource areas and other protected conservation lands, addressing, at minimum: (a) Setbacks on urban properties to provide a buffer for resource areas. (b) Clustering of development to maximize ecological and conservation benefits. (c) Lighting, fencing, screening, and landscaping/ vegetation that support, and do not interfere with, wildlife migration and other conservation purposes.* Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -19 COS-A4.3 Work with conservation agencies to identify appropriate locations and methods for incorporating wildlife crossings into future road projects. See the scenic resources section of this Element for policies and actions related to conservation of hillsides and steep slopes. Creeks, Wetlands, Natural Watercourses, and Riparian Areas Contra Costa County hosts abundant aquatic habitat through itsin the form of coastal salt and freshwater and coastal salt marshes, mud flats, inland wetlands, creeks and streams, and riparian vegetation. Wetlands, especially marshes scattered along the shoreline, are among the most important habitat resources within the county and have substantial legal and policy protection. They are critical for climate resilience, as they offer flood and storm surge protection during storm events by absorbing excess water and reducing erosion and the height of flooding. Wetlands also intercept water runoff and remove pollutants, improving water quality. Wetlands in Radke Martinez Regional Shoreline Park provide valuable wildlife habitat along the Carquinez Strait. (Community-submitted photo) As illustrated oin Figure COS-5 and Figure COS-6, many creeks, streams, and other drainages extend throughout the county and ultimately drain into San 7 -20 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element Francisco Bay, San Pablo Bay, Suisun Bay, and the Delta. Outside the urbanized parts of the county, creeks and streams tend to be in a natural or mostly undisturbed state, supporting diverse plant and animal life. The riparian ecosystems along creek banks provide permanent homes and migratory pathways for many species, while also offering recreational opportunities for people to connect with nature. Natural cCreeks and other freshwater bodies also store water and help to recharge groundwater basins, which increases resiliency to drought conditions. However, many creeks within urbanized areas have been heavily modified to support flood control, often by rerouting them into concrete channels or culverts. Recognizing the importance of creeks in supporting ecological, recreational, and flood-control goals, in 2009 the County adopted an outline of a 50-year plan to convert creeks back to their natural state. Goal COS-5 Policies COS-P5.1 Support protection, restoration, and enhancement of creeks,wetlands, marshes, sloughs, and tidelands, natural watercourses, and riparian corridors, and emphasize the role of these features in climate change resilience, air and water quality, and wildlife habitat. Goal COS-5 Protected and restored natural watercourses, riparian corridors, and wetland areas that improve habitat, water quality, wildlife diversity, stormwater flows, and scenic values. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -21 FIGURE COS-5 WATERSHEDS, WATERBODIES, CREEKS, AND RIVERS 7 -22 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element COS-P5.2 Require new public infrastructure and private development projects to preserve, and whenever possible restore and enhance, natural watercourses, floodplains, and riparian habitat.* COS-P5.3 Require avoidance, minimization, and/or compensatory mitigation for development that would impact a wetland, wetland species, or adjacent upland habitat areas. Where feasible, compensation shall be in-kind (i.e., the same type of habitat), provided on-site, and based on a ratio that provides a margin of safety reflecting the expected degree of success and accounting for the relative functions and values of the lost and created wetlands.* COS-P5.4 Require new buildings and structures on private property be set back at least 75 feet from the edge of any wetland area, unless a peer-reviewed, site-specific evaluation indicates that a different setback is appropriate for protecting the wetland and adjacent upland habitat areas. Allow encroachment into a required wetland setback area only when a parcel would otherwise be rendered unbuildable or impacts have been adequately mitigated.* COS-P5.5 Acquire deeded development rights to setback areas surrounding wetlands, floodplains, and natural watercourses to ensure preservation of the resource and protect adjacent improvements.* COS-P5.6 Identify and pursue funding opportunities to acquire, protect, and maintain open space around existing flood control channels to facilitate implementation of the County’s 50-Year Plan “From Channels to Creeks.” COS-P5.7 NEW POLICY Support efforts byWork with conservation agencies and organizations to: (a) Increase public awareness about threats to water quality and prepare and implement watershed restoration plans throughout the county. NEW POLICY (b) Support efforts by conservation agencies and organizations to aAcquire, protect, restore, and maintain areas adjacent to natural watercourses and riparian corridors. COS-P5.8 NEW COS-P5.7 Discourage ornamental landscaping within setback areas along natural watercourses and require use of California native plant species when revegetating those areas. COS-P5.6COS-P5.9 Require increased setbacks for animal-handling uses whenever necessary to protect natural watercourses, Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -23 wetlands, riparian habitat, or erosion-prone soils. Setback increases can be applied to all aspectscomponents of the use, such as manure storage or parking areas, and are not limited to buildings and structures.* COS-P5.7COS-P5.10 Allow encroachments into required setback areas along natural watercourses and wetlands for the purpose of constructing low-impact public improvements or public- serving amenities, such as footbridges, trails, and nature viewing areas, provided a qualified biologist confirms that the improvements/amenities are compatible with protection of ecological values. COS-P5.8COS-P5.11 Prohibit direct runoff of pollutants and siltation into marsh, creek, and wetland areas from outfalls serving urban development.* Actions COS-A5.1 Inventory wetlands, floodplains, marshlands, natural watercourses, riparian corridors, and adjacent lands that could potentially support climate adaptation (e.g., through flood management, filtration, or other beneficial ecosystem services) and mitigation (e.g., carbon sequestration).* COS-A5.2 Amend the County Ordinance Code to include the wetland setback requirement described in Policy COS- P5.4.* COS-A5.3 Amend the County Ordinance Code Chapter 914-14 – Rights-of-Way and Setbacks to applymake the creek setback requirements for unimproved earth channels applicable in Title 9 – Subdivisions to all projects, including those that are not part of anot just subdivisions.* COS-A5.4 With input from watershed stewardship groups, evaluate the setback requirements in County Ordinance Code Chapter 914-14 – Rights-of-Way and Setbacks to determine appropriate setbacks for maximizing the natural function of natural watercourses and allowing for future restoration. COS-A5.5 Review the Contra Costa County Watershed Atlas to determine whether an update is necessary. See the Health and Safety Element for policies and actions about flooding and sea-level rise. Uplands The upland areas of Contra Costa County support grasslands, shrublands, woodlands, and forests. These natural communities are important because they provide carbon sequestration, nutrient cycling, forage and homes for 7 -24 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element wildlife, erosion control, and recreation, while also supporting agriculture and other working lands. Oak trees, an iconic part of the landscape in the county and throughout the state, are recognized by State law with special protections for oak woodlands. Oak trees dot the natural landscape in upland areas ofthroughout Contra Costa County. (Community-submitted photo) Goal COS-6 Policies COS-P6.1 Preserve natural woodlands and significant trees, particularly mature native species, intact coastal scrub and chaparral, and grasslands, especially those with native grass and wildflower populations.* COS-P6.2 Encourage planting and propagation of California native trees and habitat-supporting native shrubs, forbs, and grasses throughout the county to enhance the natural landscape, provide shade (especially in riparian areas), sustain wildlife, absorb stormwater, and sequester carbon. COS-P6.3 Support protection of native trees, especially oaks, in foothill woodlands and agricultural areas by encouraging voluntary installation of fencing around individuals or clusters of trees to prevent grazing and promoting replanting of native species. COS-P6.4 EncourageSupport removal of invasive, non-native trees, shrubs, and grassland weeds species, especially those that are ecologically harmful orknown to pose threats to public safety. COS-P6.5 Encourage revegetation with local or regional ecotypes of Goal COS-6 Preserved and enhanced native upland habitat, including woodlands, grasslands, and rangelands. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -25 native species in areas that were previously converted for agriculture but are no longer in production. Actions COS-A6.1 Update County Ordinance Code Chapter 816-6 – Tree Protection and Preservation, to enhance tree protections and strengthen mitigation requirements/restitution for tree removal commensurate with the benefits the tree provides.* COS-A6.2 Develop an Oak Woodland Conservation Program that establishes special mitigation ratios for removal of oak trees, along with specific tree replacement and planting standards to ensure long-term growth and survival. Amend the County Ordinance Code as needed to implement the program.* WATER RESOURCES Surface and Groundwater Resources Supporting the life-sustaining properties of water as a natural resource is a complex challenge. Water is dynamic, contested, and increasingly scarce. Maintaining the quality of the county’s water supply requires protecting surface water and groundwater from the impacts of past and future development. An important tool for protecting water quality is the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES), which requires a permit to discharge water or wastewater into surface waters. The County supports the efforts of outside regulatory agencies who protect water quality, and actively monitors regional, State, and federal programs that could affect water quality and water supply safety in the county. As discussed in the Public Facilities and Services Element, there are two major water service providers in the county that rely on surface water resources from the Mokelumne River and Delta: EBMUD and CCWD. These utilities own the watershed lands around their storage reservoirs, as shown in Figure COS-76, and they actively manage the land to protect the quality of the East Bay’s water supply. Figure COS-87 shows Census tract rankings for impaired waterbodies in the county. This data ranks Census tracts based on the number of pollutants found in all waterbodies within the Census tract that are designated as impaired relative to Census tracts in the rest of the state. As shown in the figure, the highest rankings for impaired waterbodies are in East County where pesticide use from agricultural operations harms water quality. Some Census tracts on the north and west sides of the county also rank high, mainly due to discharge from industrial uses. State data also demonstrates threats to groundwater quality, as shown in Figure COS-98. This data ranks Census tracts based on activities that pose threats to groundwater quality, such as uses involving hazardous chemicals, gasoline or diesel, solvents, heavy metals, or pesticides. These threats are most significant along the Northern Waterfront where there is a high concentration of heavy industrial uses. The Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA), enacted in 2015, provides a framework of priorities and requirements to facilitate sustainable groundwater management throughout the state. Groundwater Sustainability Agencies (GSAs) and other local public 7 -26 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element agencies help manage groundwater in high- and medium-priority groundwater basins to ensure it is maintained Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -27 FIGURE COS-76 UTILITY DISTRICT WATERSHED LANDS 7 -28 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element FIGURE COS-87 IMPAIRED WATERBODIES RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -29 FIGURE COS-98 GROUNDWATER THREAT RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE 7 -30 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element within its sustainable yield. Groundwater Sustainability Plans (GSPs) are adopted and implemented by GSAs and other agencies to be consistent with the SGMA. Groundwater basins in the county are shown in Figure COS-109. Three of these are medium-priority: East Contra Costa, East Bay Plain, and Livermore Valley. In eastern Contra Costa County, seven local agencies, including the County, are GSAs. These agencies signed a memorandum of understanding agreeing to prepare a single GSP for the East Contra Costa Subbasin, which was adopted by the County in December 2021. Goal COS-7 Policies COS-P7.1 Require new development to reduce potable water consumption through use of water-efficient devices and technology, drought-tolerant landscaping strategies, and treated recycled water, where available.* COS-P7.2COS-P7.1 Partner with water and wastewater service providers, GSAs, irrigation districts, and private well owners to increase participation in water conservation programs countywide. COS-P7.3COS-P7.2 Consult applicable GSPs and local GSAs before making land use decisions that could impact groundwater resources.* COS-P7.4COS-P7.3 For projects in areas without a water service provider, require proof of adequate on-site groundwater during the development review process. In addition to requiring compliance with the County’s well regulations related to water quality and flow rate, require documentation that the proposed project will not have a significant cumulative impact on the aquifer or negatively affect development that already relies on the same groundwater supply.* COS-P7.5COS-P7.4 Prohibit new development that would create or significantly aggravate groundwater overdraft conditions, land subsidence, or other “undesirable results,” as defined in Section 354.26 of the California Water Code.* COS-P7.6COS-P7.5 Support multipurpose water storage options that incorporate water supply, flood control, surface and groundwater storage, groundwater management, and ecosystem components. COS-P7.7COS-P7.6 Require new development to reduce potable water consumption through use of water-efficient devices and Goal COS-7 Sustainable surface and groundwater resource management. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -31 technology, drought-tolerant landscaping strategies, and treated recycled water, where available.* COS-P7.8COS-P7.7 Require landscaping for new development to be drought- tolerant, filter and retain runoff, and support flood management and groundwater recharge.* 7 -32 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element FIGURE COS-109 GROUNDWATER BASINS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -33 COS-P7.9COS-P7.8 Promote installation of drought-tolerant green infrastructure, including street trees, in landscaped public areas. COS-P7.10COS-P7.9 Support wastewater reclamation and reuse programs that maximize use of treated recycled water. COS-P7.11 Support programs and activities conducted by community watershed stewardship groups and volunteers that increase public awareness and encourage stewardshipprotection, restoration, and maintenance of water resources. Actions COS-A7.1 Update County Ordinance Code Chapter 414-4, Water Supply, to be consistent with adopted GSPs.* COS-A7.2 For areas that are not covered by an adopted GSP, amend the County Ordinance Code to include sustainability indicators, defined by the SGMA, as a guide for development to maintain and protect the quality and quantity of groundwater supplies within the county.* COS-A7.3 Evaluate the feasibility and necessity of amending the County Ordinance Code to promote rainwater harvesting, installation of dual plumbing (purple pipe), and water reuse. COS-A7.4 Publish information on the DCD website about alternative sources of water for irrigation and other non-potable needs, such as greywater, rainwater, air conditioning condensation, and foundation drainage. Goal COS-8 Policies COS-P8.1 Protect public water supplies by denying applications for projects that would introduce significant new pollution sources in groundwater basins and watersheds feeding major reservoirs, and support efforts to acquire and permanently protect reservoir watersheds.* Goal COS-8 Protected quality of surface water and groundwater resources. 7 -34 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element COS-P8.2 Coordinate with other agencies to control point and non- point sources of water pollution and maintain water quality standards.* COS-P8.3 Support development and implementation of a long-term, area-wide integrated vegetation management program to control invasive weeds in a way that reduces pesticide use and preserves water quality. COS-P8.4 Require new development to retain natural vegetation and topography whenever feasible and require projects involving erosion-inducing activities to use best management practices to minimize erosion.* COS-P8.5 Require groundwater monitoring programs for all large- scale commercial and industrial facilities that use wells and prohibit discharge of hazardous materials through injection wells.* COS-P8.6 Support ongoing remediation of the Mount Diablo Mercury Mine. See the Public Facilities Element for policies and actions on water and wastewater service, drainage, and stormwater management. See the Health and Safety Element for policies and actions on flood control. Delta and Shoreline Resources Encompassing 738,000 acres, the Delta is the largest estuary on the West Coast and the confluence of California’s two longest rivers: the Sacramento River and San Joaquin River. East County is home to a large portion of the western Delta where unique plant and animal communities flourish. The Delta is one of the county’s greatest natural resources, and its health is critical to the county’s physical, societal, and economic well -being. A healthy Delta requires sufficient high-quality water to provide habitat for fish and other native aquatic, terrestrial, and avian species, both migratory and year-round. The Delta needs proper management, including through partnerships between federal, State, and local agencies, to protect people and land with strong levees, comprehensive emergency response, and fresh water. The Delta also promotes the economic health of the region through recreation, industrial and maritime commerce, and agriculture. The Delta provides a portion of the water supply for 30 million people and over 6 million acres of agriculture. However, the Delta’s health has declined in recent decades due to wetland loss, diversions of water for export to other regions, increased salinity from diversions and drought, pollution from urban run-off and agricultural pesticide use, and invasive species, which threatens our health, safety, and welfare. Without continued improvements to the ecosystem through conservation and restoration efforts and sustainable land use practices, the Delta is at risk of further decline. Understanding this need, the County adopted its Delta Water Platform in 2014 to guide decisions, actions, and advocacy in a way that supports the Delta’s health and sustainability. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -35 The Delta is an extensive network of waterways stretching from East Contra Costa County to Sacramento and Stockton. (Credit: California Department of Water Resources) Goal COS-9 Policies COS-P9.1 Advocate for increased freshwater flow into, through, and from the Delta into San Francisco Bay, and support other efforts to protect and improve Delta water quality. COS-P9.2 Support continued maintenance and improvement of Delta levees to protect water quality, ecosystems, agricultural land, and at-risk communities. COS-P9.3 Oppose all efforts to construct an isolated conveyance, (e.g.,such as a peripheral canal, or tunnel), or any other water diversion system that reduces Delta water flows unless and until it can be conclusively demonstrated that such a system would protect, preserve, and enhance water quality and fisheries of the San Francisco Bay/Delta estuary system. New P9.4 Work with the Delta Protection Commission to advise agencies undertaking habitat restoration projects within the Delta Primary Zone of their obligation to comply with California Constitution Article XIII D, Section 4, which requires public projects to continue paying benefit assessments unless the project demonstrates that it would not receive the relevant services. COS-P9.4 Plan for land uses along shorelines that do not pose a threat to Bay or Delta resources, including water quality and shoreline and marshland habitats.* Goal COS-9 Protected, preserved, and enhanced scenic quality, recreational value, and natural resources of the San Francisco Bay/Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta estuary system and shoreline. 7 -36 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element COS-P9.5 Support efforts to expand and enhance public access to the Bay shoreline and Delta. COS-P9.6 Prohibit private development on tule islands, sand dunes, and levee remnants. COS-P9.7 Evaluate cumulative impacts on boating safety when reviewing applications for new or expanded marinas and docks. COS-P9.8 Require design excellence for new development along Bay and Delta waterways to enhance the visual quality of these areas. Actions COS-A9.1 Amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to incorporate the following requirements for new or expanded marinas and docks: (a) Adequate channel width and depth, as defined by the State Harbors and Navigation Code. (b) Adequate public fire protection services. (c) Adequate public vehicular access. (d) Adequate supply of potable water. (e) Adequate on-site facilities for sewage and solid waste disposal. (f) Compatibility with nearby agricultural uses. (g) Compatibility with nearby conservation/habitat lands. (h) Designed to avoid inundation from projected sea - level rise, as shown on Figures HS-6 through HS-9 (Sea-Level Rise Projection Maps) in the Health and Safety Element.* HISTORIC AND CULTURAL RESOURCES Archaeological and Historic Resources Although the Spanish explored Contra Costa County as early as 1772, significant European settlements were not established until the nineteenth century. In 1822, the newly independent Mexican government began issuing land grants, called ranchos, to its citizens in California. Sixteen ranchos existed in what is now Contra Costa County, and most of the land was used for grazing or growing wheat. One rancho was later purchased by a settler named John Marsh in 1837. It became known as Marsh’s Landing, near present day Antioch, and grew into an important commercial center along the San Joaquin River during the California Gold Rush. The success of Marsh’s Landing encouraged other American immigrants to purchase land in the area, and permanent communities began to take shape. Following the Gold Rush, agriculture was the economic driver in the region, boosted by the Southern Pacific Railroad’s expansion into the area in the late nineteenth century. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -37 South of Brentwood, the John Marsh House was built by Dr. Marsh in 1856. (Community- submitted photo) Industrial development and associated residential development to house workers shaped the western portions of Contra Costa County from the early twentieth century. In 1906, the C&H Sugar Factory was established in Crockett, taking advantage of cargo ship access via the Carquinez Strait. Petroleum refineries were also developed during the late 1800s and early 1900s. World War II brought rapid expansion of industrial development to support war efforts, including the famous Kaiser Richmond Shipyards. Over centuries, people have immigrated to the region from other cities, states, and countries, and the diverse population forms the unique fabric of modern-day Contra Costa County. This history is represented in the almost 400 historic sites, buildings, and other structures that have been identified in Contra Costa County’s Historic Resources Inventory. They range from historic buildings that were part of the early industrialization of the western county, like the C&H Sugar Factory, to historic ranches and homes, like the home of John Muir, which is part of the John Muir National Historic Site in Martinez. In 2019, the United States Congress established the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta National Heritage Area (NHA), which runs from the east side of San Pablo Bay through the Carquinez Strait to the Delta. The Delta NHA is recognized as a cohesive, nationally significant landscape arising from patterns of human activity shaped by the Delta’s geography. The Delta Protection Commission is drafting a Management Plan to promote historic preservation, cultural conservation, education and interpretation, development of recreational assets, nature conservation, tourism, and economic development throughout the Delta NHA. The draft Management Plan will be submitted for review and approval by the United States Department of the Interior in the first quarter of 2024. Other State and federal laws and programs help to protect historic and archaeological resources, including the California Historical Building Code, which preserves California’s architectural heritage by ensuring historic buildings are maintained and rehabilitated in accordance with historically sensitive construction techniques. In addition, the Mills Act, enacted in 1976, provides a property tax incentive to owners of qualified, owner-occupied, historical properties to maintain and preserve the historic pr operty in accordance with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties. The National Historic Preservation Act coordinates public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect historic and archaeological resources across the nation. The Act authorized the National Register of Historic Places, which lists districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects that are significant in American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, and culture. 7 -38 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element Goal COS-10 Policies COS-P10.1 Prioritize preservation and adaptive reuse of buildings, sites, and areas having identifiable archaeological, cultural, or historic significance. Require new construction and renovation projects in historic areas to incorporate compatible and high-quality design that protects the overall historic integrity of the area and adjacent historic resources.* COS-P10.2 Encourage sensitive restoration and adaptive reuse of historic resources following the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties, including additions and alterations to buildings that do not diminish historic integrity. COS-P10.3 Encourage owners of historic properties to make use of the State of California Historic Building Code to protect and rehabilitate historic resources. COS-P10.4 Encourage owners of eligible historic properties to apply for State and federal designation as historic properties and participate in tax incentive programs, such as allowed under the Mills Act, for historic preservation. COS-P10.5 When a project involves a resource that is listed in the County’s Historic Resources Inventory, or as otherwise necessitated by the CEQA process, require applicants to engage a qualified consultant to prepare an evaluation of potential and previously identified archaeological, cultural, and historic resources that may be present on the project site.* COS-P10.6 Upon discovery of significant historic or prehistoric archaeological artifacts or fossils during project construction, require ground-disturbing activities to halt within a 50-foot radius of the find until its significance can be determined by a qualified historian, archaeologist, or paleontologist and appropriate protection and preservation measures developed.* COS-P10.7 Require significant historic, archaeological, and paleontological resources to be either preserved onsite or adequately documented as a condition of removal. Any documentation of historic resources shall be conducted in accordance with Historic American Building Survey (HABS) Level III standards, as defined by the US Secretary of the Interior.* Goal COS-10 Archaeological, cultural, and historic resources that are identified and preserved. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -39 COS-P10.8 Emphasize native people, immigrant populations, and the environmental and cultural heritage of the region as significant themes related to historic preservation. Consider natural, agricultural, ranching, mining, commercial, industrial, residential, political, transportation, recreation, education, maritime, and military themes when evaluating the significance of historic resources. COS-P10.9 Ensure new cultural/historic resource evaluations consider potential social and cultural significance of resources in addition to architectural significance. COS-P10.10 Coordinate with cities and special districts to identify and preserve archaeological, cultural, and historic resources countywide. COS-P10.11 Partner with other agencies, culturally affiliated tribes, private entities, and nonprofit organizations to establish programs and funding mechanisms to preserve, restore, and enhance cultural, historic, and archaeologic sites. Actions COS-A10.1 Beginning in 2024, then every five years thereafter, review and update the County’s Historic Resources Inventory and Archaeological Sensitivity Map in consultation with culturally affiliated tribes to ensure these remain useful tools for evaluating potential cultural resources impacts and guiding preservation efforts. As part of the 2024 update to the Historic Resources Inventory, create a map of the listed historic resources, and update the map upon each update to the Historic Resources Inventory. Ensure tribal cultural resources identified through these updates remain confidential. COS-A10.2 Evaluate and implement one or more measures to protect and preserve historic and cultural resources, such as a historic and cultural resources ordinance, overlay district, and/or design guidelines. COS-A10.3 Prepare a historic context statement that provides necessary background information about historic, archaeological, and cultural resources and a framework for identifying and evaluating historic resources. The context statement should include the overarching significance themes described in Policy COS-P10.8. COS-A10.4 Partner with the Delta Protection Commission to support preparation and implementation of the management plan for the Delta NHA. Tribal Communities Contra Costa County is in an area where traditional territories of three Native American tribal communities – the Bay Miwok, Northern ValleyDelta Yokuts, and Ohlone – converged, as shown in Figure COS-11. The Bay Miwok inhabited the inner Coast Range, with territory stretching through eastern Contra Costa County, from Mount Diablo into the Delta. The 7 -40 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element Bay Miwok were politically organized by tribelet, which consisted of one or more villages and camps within a defined territory. The Northern ValleyDelta Yokuts are the historical occupants of the central and northern San Joaquin Valley, and their territory extended into eastern Contra Costa County. Their main settlements were built atop low mounds on or near the banks of large watercourses for protection against flooding. Each subtribe was autonomous with a headman, and populations averaged around 300 individuals. The territory of the Ohlone people extended along the coast from the Golden Gate south to just below Carmel, as well as along several inland valleys that led from the coastline. The Ohlone were also politically organized by tribelet, with each having a designated territory. All of these tribal communities were primarily hunter-gatherers; they hunted animals like mule deer, tule elk, pronged antelope, mountain lions, whales, and waterfowl. They would travel seasonally into the foothills or plains to gather specific plant resources, such as acorns, buckeye nuts, hazelnuts, and pine nuts, as well as seeds, roots, and berries. These and other resources likely supported hundreds of individual villages throughout what is now Contra Costa County. Despite the violence and displacement that accompanied European and Mexican settlement of this area and decimated indigenous communities, the indigenous inhabitants of the land are still present. Today, there are several Ohlone nations in Contra Costa, Alameda, Solano, Napa, and San Joaquin Counties, each with its own culture and language, including the Lisjan (Ohlone), Karkin (Ohlone), Bay Miwok, Plains Miwok, Delta Yokut, and Napian (Patwin). This rich tribal history and living tribal culture are reflected in a range of tribal cultural resources throughout the county. Tribal cultural resources often are less tangible than an object or a site itself. For example, sometimes the importance is tied to views of or access to a sacred site. Therefore, consultation with culturally affiliated Native American tribes is key to identifying tribal cultural resources, as required by Assembly Bill 52. CEQA requires that local agencies evaluate and mitigate to the extent feasible a project’s potential impacts to tribal cultural resources. In addition, Section 7050.5 of the California Health and Safety Code requires that construction or excavation be stopped in the vicinity of discovered human remains until the County Coroner can determine whether the remains are those of a Native American. If the remains are determined to be Native American, the Coroner must contact the California Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) to determine appropriate treatment (as prescribed in Public Resources Code Section 5097 et seq.). Construction or excavation activity must remain stopped until lawful removal of the remains for reinternment or cremation. Pursuant to Senate Bill 18, the County notified and consulted with local tribes throughout the General Plan update process. The policies and actions in this section reflect that consultation and commit the County to continuing a collaborative relationship through implementation of this General Plan. Goal COS-11 Goal COS-11 Robust tribal collaboration to preserve, restore, and enhance tribal cultural resources. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -41 Policies COS-P11.1 Respect and protect tribal cultural resources, including historic, cultural, and sacred sites; cultural landscapes; views of or access to resources; and objects with cultural value to California Native American tribes.* COS-P11.2 Establish and maintain collaborative relationships with local Native American tribal representatives to facilitate tribal consultation and preservation of tribal cultural resources.* COS-P11.3 Consult with culturally affiliated tribes on General Plan and Specific Plan amendments with potential to impact tribal cultural resources. If an amendment redesignates a tribal cultural resource site on private land for open space purposes, evaluate the appropriateness of developing a treatment and management plan for tribal cultural resources in the affected area.* COS-P11.4 Consult with culturally affiliated tribes to identify and appropriately address tribal cultural resources through the discretionary development review process.* COS-P11.5 Consult with culturally affiliated tribes to assess the sensitivity of sites and protect recorded and unrecorded tribal cultural resources.* COS-P11.6 Encourage voluntary landowner efforts to protect tribal cultural resources, including voluntary relinquishment of tribal cultural resources to affiliated tribes. COS-P11.7 Support tribal acquisition of conservation easements on terms mutually satisfactory to the tribe and landowner for purposes of protecting tribal cultural resources. COS-P11.8 Encourage special districts, such as EBRPD, to consult with culturally affiliated tribes when pursuing land acquisitions for recreation or other public purposes to ensure tribal access to tribal cultural resources. COS-P11.9 Avoid impacts of development on Native American archaeological resources and tribal cultural resources whenever possible. When impacts cannot be avoided, mitigate to the maximum feasible extent.* COS-P11.10 Consult with culturally affiliated tribes when developing mitigation measures to avoid or minimize impacts on tribal cultural resources. Mitigation could include, but is not limited to, a cultural resources treatment agreement between the developer and affected tribe(s) that addresses the treatment and disposition of cultural resources and human remains and tribal monitoring during earth-disturbing activities.* 7 -42 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element COS-P11.11 Upon discovery of a burial, human remains, or suspected human remains, require immediate halt to ground - disturbing activities such as excavation and grading, protection of the area surrounding the find, notification of the County Coroner, and compliance with the provisions of California Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5, including California Public Resources Code Section 5097.98, if applicable. If human remains are determined to be Native American, require the applicant to consult with the Most Likely Descendants list to determine appropriate treatment, as prescribed in Public Resources Code Section 5097 et seq.* COS-P11.12 Encourage landowners to relinquish ownership of Native American cultural artifacts found on project sites to the culturally affiliated tribe for proper treatment and disposition. Actions COS-A11.1 In consultation with local Native American tribes, prepare informational materials about living Native American culture in the region, the history of Native Americans in what is now Contra Costa County, and how the County’s relationship with local Native American tribes has evolved. Make these materials easily accessible to the public, project applicants, and County staff. COS-A11.2 Work with local Native American tribes to establish programs and secure funding to implement actions aimed at preserving tribal cultural resources. SCENIC RESOURCES With its vast open spaces, estuary system, and rolling hills, Contra Costa County encompasses an outstanding variety of scenic natural vistas, water resources, and landscapes. Many of these scenic resources, including the open spaces and Delta, are discussed in earlier sections of this Element. This section focuses on designated scenic routes and scenic ridges, which are described as follows: ● Scenic routes are public roadways that pass through picturesque natural landscapes. These roads tend to offer sweeping views of particularly beautiful areas or prominent features, such as valleys and mountain ranges. ● Scenic ridges are ridges that contribute to the scenic quality and character of a community or locale. In many areas, visually prominent ridges offer a striking and welcome contrast to the urban environment. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -43 Unobstructed ridgelines are an important component of the county’s scenic landscape. Figure COS-120 shows scenic routes and ridges as designated by the County through this General Plan. The map also includes the only scenic route in the county officially designated by the State, State Route (SR) 24, as well as portions of SR 4, which are eligible for the State designation. The County designates scenic routes and ridges in order to distinguish especially significant natural features within the landscape and maintain their aesthetic quality through policy protections. Goal COS-12 Policies COS-P12.1 Deny applications for development that would destroy unique and irreplaceable natural features, such as distinctive rock formations.* COS-P12.2 Require redesign of project components that negatively impact viewsheds or the visual quality of the area.* COS-P12.3 Prohibit development within 100 vertical feet of the top of designated scenic ridges and within 50 vertical feet of other visually prominent ridgelines. Exceptions may be considered on existing legal lots where no other feasible building sites exist, and for infrastructure that requires high- elevation siting, such as wind turbines, communications towers, and water tanks. When siting buildings or infrastructure on or near ridges is unavoidable, require appropriate measures, such as screening, undergrounding, or camouflaging to mitigate visual impacts.* Goal COS-12 Protected natural features with high scenic value, such as visual landmarks, major ridges, prominent hillsides, and stands of mature trees. 7 -44 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element FIGURE COS-120 SCENIC RESOURCES Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -45 COS-P12.4 Preserve the scenic qualities of hillsides by encouraging designs that are sensitive to a site’s topography and prohibiting unnecessary grading and vegetation removal. COS-P12.5 Require restoration of natural contours and vegetation after grading and other land disturbances.* COS-P12.6 Prohibit extreme topographic modification, such as filling canyons or removing prominent hilltops. Exemptions may be considered for landfills, mining operations, and public or semi-public projects that necessitate such modifications.* COS-P12.7 Support preservation and enhancement of natural and human-made features that contribute to the scenic quality of the landscape and viewshed along designated scenic routes, and discourage projects that interfere with public views of those features. COS-P12.8 Require a visual impact analysis for projects with potential to significantly impact public views along designated scenic routes.* COS-P12.9 Enable flexibility in the design of projects along scenic routes in scenic corridors and support innovative solutions to protect views and visual quality. Actions COS-A12.1 Amend County Ordinance Code Division 814 – Slope and Hillside Development to convert the requirements from being a combining district to design and development standards related to building envelopes, building massing, colors, materials, grading, draining, and erosion control. COS-A12.2 Adopt design guidelines to preserve views, vistas, and defining natural features along designated scenic routes. MINERAL RESOURCES Mining in Contra Costa County dates to the 1850s, when coal fields were discovered north of Mount Diablo. Today, mining activities focus on construction aggregate (crushed rock, sand, and sandstone). Two rock quarries near Clayton and a sand quarry near Byron annually produce hundreds of thousands of tons of construction aggregate that is used for public infrastructure and private construction projects throughout Northern California. High-quality sand from Byron is also used in glass manufacturing, including bottles for California wineries. Mineral extraction in Contra Costa County therefore is an important component of the regional economy. Conflicts between mining and urban uses throughout California led to passage of the Surface Mining and Reclamation Act of 1975 (SMARA). SMARA established policies for conservation and development of mineral lands and contains specific provisions for the classification of mineral lands by the State Geologist. SMARA requires all cities and counties to incorporate mapped designations approved by the State Mining and Geology Board (SMGB) in their general plans. These designations include lands categorized as Mineral Resource Areas (MRAs), the most significant of which contain mineral 7 -46 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element resources of regional or statewide significance. The county contains regionally significant MRAs, which are shown in Figure COS-131. Goal COS-13 Policies COS-P13.1 Protect valuable mineral resources by prohibiting incompatible projects and land uses (i.e., those that would directly or indirectly interfere with extraction, processing, or transportation of mineral resources) within the MRAs identified in Figure COS-13. COS-P13.2 Encourage compact design and layout for mineral resource processing areas, preserving as much land as possible for buffering between these areas and adjacent land uses. COS-P13.3 For residential subdivisions within one mile of the MRAs depicted in Figure COS-13, require deed disclosures indicating the presence of the mineral resource and explaining potential disturbances (e.g., noise, dust, heavy truck traffic) associated with mineral extraction activities.* COS-P13.4 Require applications for new or expanded quarrying operations adjacent to Mount Diablo State Park to include an analysis of potential impacts to the park’s natural features, including viewsheds, and operations.* COS-P13.5 Ensure that quarry reclamation plans, including bonding requirements, are maintained in compliance with SMARA. Actions COS-A13.1 Update County Ordinance Code Chapter 88-11 – Surface Mining and Reclamation, as necessary to maintain consistency with SMARA. Goal COS-13 Continued economic viability of mineral extraction operations while minimizing land use conflicts and environmental impacts. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -47 FIGURE COS-13 MINERAL RESOURCE AREAS 7 -48 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element ENERGY RESOURCES Contra Costa County has long been an energy producer. Coal mining began in the 1850s, as indicated previously. The first petroleum refinery in the Bay Area opened in Rodeo in 1896 and the county has historically been home to a small oil and natural gas production industry. However, energy production in Contra Costa County is evolving as reliance on fossil fuels decreases and the State enacts more aggressive policies to combat climate change ,. In recent years, the State has including increased support for a transitioning to cleaner-burning biofuels through investments in technology, infrastructure, and production. Biofuels, including biomethane, biodiesel, and gasoline and diesel fuels derived from renewable sources instead of petroleum, can reduce reliance on traditional fuel sources, improve air quality, and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Embracing the future, Ttwo former petroleum refineries in the county have already begun converteding their operations from refining crude oil to processing cleaner biofuels. Today, most of the electricity generated in the county is from renewable sources, like wind and solar. The California Energy Commission designated the Altamont Pass area, including the Byron Hills portion of eastern Contra Costa County, as an area with high wind potential, as shown in Figure COS- 14. In the early 1980s the private sector responded to that designation and federal and State tax incentives by moving rapidly into the wind energy business as a secondary use on agricultural land. Those first windfarms, which were inefficient and environmentally destructive, have since disappeared. Two modern windfarms with a generating capacity of 116.2 megawatts (MW) now operate in the county. In 2017, the County received a grant from the California Strategic Growth Council to study the potential for renewable energy generation within its jurisdiction. The study estimated that 2,600 to 4,600 MW could be generated, with solar accounting for the vast majority (up to 4,410 MW, more than 75 percent of which is in existing urban areas). In 2020 the County adopted its Solar Energy Facilities Ordinance and designated rural areas in East County as potentially suitable for large-scale commercial solar energy development, as shown on Figure COS-142. The Solar Energy Facilities Ordinance regulates commercial solar energy facilities (i.e., facilities generating electricity for off-site use, usually for sale on the wholesale energy market) and provides a simplified permitting process for facilities on rooftops and parking canopies in commercial and industrial areas. The County also supports installation of solar energy systems generating electricity for on-site use through a low-cost, expedited permit process. Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) and MCE are the primary electricity providers for Contra Costa County. Most of the electricity consumed in the county is generated from large hydroelectric, solar, and wind sources, as indicated in the following graph. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -49 FIGURE COS-142 WIND AND SOLAR ENERGY RESOURCE AREAS IN RURAL AREAS 7 -50 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element Wind turbines generate power in East Contra Costa County near Byron. The State and Contra Costa County are moving towards reducing or eliminating natural gas use in existing and new buildings and transitioning to a clean energy economy. The County adopted an all-electric building ordinance in 2022, but enforcement was suspended following a federal court ruling in January 2024. requiring that all new residential, retail, office, and hotel buildings use electricity as the sole source of energy for space heating, water heating, cooking appliances, and clothes-drying appliances; natural gas and propane plumbing is prohibited. Later in 2024 the County will consider adopting a replacement ordinance that supports high levels of energy efficiency and low levels of GHG emissions for new construction. The County, and regional utilities, and community choice energy providers also provide rebates and programs to help make homes and businesses more resource efficient through energy audits, building retrofits, and opportunities to transition to a renewable electricity provider. The County continues to pursue opportunities for reducing overall energy use and increasing reliance on renewable sources, such as converting municipal and other wastes to energy resources (e.g., methane). In December 2015October 2024 the County will consider adoptingadopted aits Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP), the successor to the 2015 Climate Action Plan. whichThe CAAP is the County’s strategic approach to reducing GHG emissions from sources throughout the unincorporated area. The CAAP identifies County programs and actions to decrease energy use, improve energy efficiency, develop renewable energy, reduce vehicle miles traveled, increase multi-modal travel options, expand green infrastructure, reduce waste, and improve the efficiency of government operations. The CAAP also forecasts the County’s GHG emissions and sets reduction targets and strategies. As a document that is integral to implementation of the General Plan, the CAAP was updated in parallel with thisand General Plan must remain consistent and compatible. Goal COS-14 Policies COS-P14.1 Implement Climate Action and Adaptation Plan strategies to improve energy efficiency and conservation, promote carbon-free energy sources, and reduce energy-related GHG emissions.* Goal COS-14 Increased generation of and reliance on renewable, sustainable, and carbon energy and reduced energy use. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -51 COS-P14.2 Partner with State and regional and State agencies (e.g., California Public Utilities Commission, California Energy Commission, and ABAG/MTC) to support energy efficiency and renewable energy planning efforts. COS-P14.3 Support distributed electricity generation, including development of microgrids, renewable energy sources, storage capacity, and associated technologies. Encourage these throughout urban areas, and in nonurban areas when significant environmental impacts can be avoided or successfully mitigated. COS-P14.4 For residential subdivisions within two miles of the wind resource area depicted in Figure COS-14, require deed disclosures indicating the presence of the wind resource area and explaining potential disturbances (e.g., noise, shadow/flicker) associated with wind turbines. COS-P14.5 Support development of energy recovery projects (e.g., methane recovery from landfills and wastewater treatment plants). COS-P14.6 Support efforts to convert existing buildings to be low- carbon or carbon neutral. COS-P14.7 Encourage installation of battery storage systems in new and existing buildings, especially buildings with solar energy systems and buildings that provide essential community services. COS-P14.8 Design and construct new County facilities to be zero netzero-net energy to the extent feasible.* COS-P14.9 Work with energy service providers and the Bay Area Regional Energy Network to encourage property owners to participate in weatherization, education, rate incentive, and other programs and measures to improve energy efficiency in existing buildings. COS-P9.9 Require replacement and new water heaters and space heating and cooling systems to be electric or have no nitrogen oxide emissions if the building electric panel has sufficient capacity in accordance with Bay Area Air Quality Management District Regulation 9, Rule 4, and Regulation 9, Rule 6.Provide educational and technical resources to advance the adoption of heat pump water heater and heat pump space heating in buildings in support of BAAQMD Regulation 9, Rule 4, and Regulation 9, Rule 6, which will mandate that replacement and new water heaters (2027 and 2031) and space heaters (2029) are zero NOx. 7 -52 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element Actions COS-A14.1 Amend County Ordinance Code Chapter 88-14 – Oil and Gas Drilling and Production to: (a) Prohibit new and expanded oil and gas production wells in the following: i. Sensitive ecological areas, such as wetlands and habitat for rare, threatened, endangered, or special-status species. ii. Areas subject to 100-year flood hazards or sea- level rise, as shown in Figures HS-2 and HS-6 through HS-9. iii. Areas within 3,200 feet of sensitive receptors or urban land use designations unless project- specific exceptions are granted by the California Department of Conservation, Geologic Energy Management Division. (b) Restrict oil and gas drilling operations to agricultural zoning districts only. (c) Require a land use permit for all new and expanded oil and gas wells. (d) Require a reclamation plan for oil and gas well sites that includes bonding for site clean-up. (e) Include performance standards related to surface water and groundwater quality and quantity, air quality, odors, noise, and aesthetics. In parallel, study the feasibility of amending the County Ordinance Code to prohibit development of new oil and gas wells and phase out existing oil and gas well operations. COS-A14.2 Amend County Ordinance Code Division 88 – Special Land Uses to consolidate Chapters 88-3 and 88-30 governing wind energy conversion systems and solar energy facilities, respectively, into a new renewable energy chapter, with added provisions related to microgrids, community solar projects, and battery energy storage systems. Simultaneously review the boundaries of the Solar Energy Generation Combining District to determine whether opportunities exist for increasing solar energy generation without encroaching upon HCP/NCCP priority acquisition areas, aesthetically sensitive areas, or other lands that are inappropriate for solar energy development. COS-A14.3 Amend County Ordinance Code Chapter 88-3 – Wind Energy Conversion Systems to require that decommissioned wind farms be returned to a condition consistent with the natural environment in the area at the time of decommissioning, rather than a return to pre- project condition. The following issues must be specifically addressed: (a) Unnecessary and poorly constructed roads that are sources of erosion. (b) Remaining turbine foundations/footings and underground conduit. (c) Abandoned equipment yards, turbine components, and other debris. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element 7 -53 COS-A14.4 Consider adoptingAdopt new or modified reach codes that exceed the California Building Standards Code, as the State updates the Building Code every three years, to require the use of lower-carbon intensive energy sources, to achieve higher feasible levels of energy conservation and efficiencyperformance, and to achieve lower feasible levels of GHG emissions. COS-A14.5 Maintain, update, and publicize County ordinances and programs enforce the County Ordinance Code Title 7 – Building Regulations amendment requiring new residential buildings, hotels, offices, and retail to be all-electric. more energy efficient, with low levels of GHG emissions. Evaluate the feasibility of including other building types as appropriate. COS-A14.6 Create a County policy or program to facilitate making existing residential and nonresidential buildings more energy-efficient and powered by carbon-free energy. COS-A14.7 Create a detailed County roadmap to convert existing homes and businesses to use low-carbon or zero-carbon- free appliances. The roadmap should include steps to support converting buildings to rely on low-carbon or zero- carbon-free energy using an equitable framework that minimizes the risk of displacement or significant disruptions to existing tenants. COS-A14.8 Evaluate options for incentivizing and requiring additions and alterations to be energy efficient and to achieve the lowest feasible levels of GHG emissions, including upgrades to the building electric panel as needed. COS-A14.9 Ensure County-led and supported retrofit programs incentivize and prioritize conversion of buildings built before 1980 and emphasize assistance to owners of properties that are home to very low-, low-, and moderate- income residents or located in Impacted Communities, as permitted by available funding. COS-A14.10 Provide educational and technical resources to advance the adoption of heat pump water heater and heat pump space heating in buildings in support of BAAQMD Regulation 9, Rule 4, and Regulation 9, Rule 6, which will mandate that replacement and new water heaters (2027 and 2031) and space heaters (2029) are zero NOx. COS-A14.10COS-A14.11 Support legislative efforts to establish a green bank able to equitably finance sustainability projects, including renewable energy, energy efficiency, and green infrastructure, for residential and commercial customers. See the Transportation Element for policies and actions to reduce energy consumption in the transportation sector and the Health and Safety Element for 7 -54 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element policies and actions related to climate change and power line infrastructure and planned power shutoffs in relation to wildfire hazards. CONSERVATION, OPEN SPACE, AND WORKING LANDS ELEMENT PERFORMANCE MEASURES To track progress in achieving the major goals of this Element, every five years, the County will collect data to assess its performance against the following measures. Progress will be tracked relative to the prior performance review and the baseline year of 2024. Based on the findings from the five-year review, the County may adjust policies, actions, or the approach to implementing them to improve performance, as needed. ● Increased acreage of land designated Resource Conservation or Parks and Recreation. ● Increased gross value of agricultural production. ● Increased acreage of land acquired for conservation of ecological resources. ● Reduced per-capita water consumption. ● Reduced per-capita electricity and natural gas consumption. ● Increased renewable energy generation and storage. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -1 8 PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES ELEMENT Contra Costa County is committed to providing a high quality of life for its residents. This commitment includes providing public services, infrastructure, and facilities that are accessible to and benefit all county residents, while also working with outside service providers to accomplish those same goals. Although the Public Facilities and Services Elemen t is not explicitly required by State law, the topics addressed here are an integral part of the County’s overall planning strategy and a basic consideration in setting growth and development policy. The following nine sections are included in this Element: ● The General Public Facilities and Services section includes policy guidance to support coordination, financing, and equitable distribution of public facilities and services that promote the economic, social, physical, and environmental wellbeing of residents. ● The Water and Wastewater section includes policy guidance to provide safe, resilient, and environmentally responsible water and wastewater services to meet existing and future needs. ● The Drainage and Flood Risk section includes policy guidance to support effective and resilient natural drainage systems and flood-risk management infrastructure. ● The Sheriff, Fire, and Emergency Medical Service section includes policy guidance to provide efficient and effective public safety and emergency services, with emphasis on improvements to the physical environment that support a safe and accessible public realm. ● The Solid Waste Management section includes policy guidance aimed at reducing waste, providing equitable and sustainable waste management services, and reducing illegal dumping. ● The Parks and Recreation section includes policy guidance to develop an integrated and accessible park and trail system with a focus on improving access to parks for Impacted Communities. ● The Schools section includes policy guidance to support a strong and diverse education system from primary school through higher education facilities. ● The Libraries section includes policy guidance to expand library services to support access to information and educational opportunities for residents of all ages. ● The Public Facilities and Services Element Performance Measures describe how the County will track its progress in achieving some of the major objectives expressed in this Element. This General Plan highlights policies and actions that address four major themes that serve as a framework for the Plan. For the reader’s ease, policies and actions related to these themes are identified throughout the General Plan using the following icons. The policies and actions related to each theme are also compiled in Appendix A. See Chapter 1 for more information about each theme. Community Health Environmental Justice 8 -2 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element Economic Development Sustainability GENERAL PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES Coordinated Facilities and Services The Crockett Community Services District provides bocce courts at Rithet Park. A complex array of County departments and districts and outside agencies serve the diverse needs of Contra Costa residents and businesses. In addition to the County and incorporated cities and towns, this includes: ● Community services districts providing police, recreation, water, wastewater, and solid waste services. ● Fire protection districts. ● Healthcare districts. ● Park and recreation districts. ● School districts and a community college district. ● Water districts, irrigation districts, and sanitary sewer districts providing water and wastewater services. ● Reclamation districts and a municipal improvement district providing flood protection and levee and drainage maintenance services. The Contra Costa Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) regulates the jurisdictional boundaries of all cities and special districts, affecting which agencies provide services to a given area. Properties inside city limits receive certain services from the incorporated city, such as law enforcement. Fire protection, parks and recreation, and various other services may be provided by the city or a special district, or a combination of both. Other countywide services, like health and human services, hazardous materials response, and criminal justice, are provided by the County. As such, the County operates at many levels, simultaneously providing mandated countywide services and local services to unincorporated areas, and coordinating with the activities of State agencies, cities, and regional and local special districts. The County adopts a new budget annually that sets priorities and addresses operating costs. In September 2022, the Board of Supervisors adopted the Capital Facilities Master Plan, outlining a 20-year vision for transforming County facilities to improve customer service delivery and support County employees providing those services, and guiding future capital facilities budgeting and planning decisions. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -3 Through Senate Bill (SB) 244, State law requires that general plans identify Disadvantaged Unincorporated Communities (DUCs) and evaluate and address any infrastructure or fire service deficiencies in those communities to support public health and safety. For counties, DUCs are defined as an inhabitated community with 10 or more dwelling units in close proximity, or where 12 or more registered voters reside, that is located outside of a city sphere of influence and has an annual median household income that is 80 percent or less of the statewide median. The County conducted a DUC analysis in 2023 and found that parts of Rodeo, Crockett, and Bethel Island meet the DUC criteria. Policy guidance related to infrastructure and service needs in these communities is provided in the respective Community Profiles, located in the Stronger Communities Element. Goal PFS-1 Policies PFS-P1.1 Consider potential effects on the physical, social, cultural, and recreational needs of the surrounding community when developing new County facilities. PFS-P1.2 Locate new County facilities that involve regular community access in places that are easily accessible by public transit, walking, and micromobility, to the greatest extent possible. PFS-P1.3 Encourage, and whenever possible require, public agencies to locate, design, construct, and operate their facilities in a manner that complements and avoids conflict with adjacent land uses. PFS-P1.4 Encourage, and whenever possible require, co-location and undergrounding of new utility infrastructure, such as transmission and distribution lines, fiber-optic cables, and pipelines, in existing rights-of-way to minimize visual, operational, and environmental impacts on the community. Actions PFS-A1.1 Streamline processes for special districts to establish new facilities that support their core mission and are consistent with General Plan goals and policies. PFS-A1.2 Update the Capital Facilities Master Plan, Capital Road Improvement and Preservation Program, Parks Capital Improvement Program, and similar plans and programs as needed to maintain consistency with this General Plan, particularly its provisions related to environmental justice. Goal PFS-1 Coordinated public facilities and services that support the economic, social, health, and environmental well- being of the county and its residents. 8 -4 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element PFS-A1.3 Notify and request comments from utility service providers on development applications.* PFS-A1.4 Upon each update to the Housing Element, perform an analysis of infrastructure needs and deficiencies in DUCs and explore funding mechanisms that could make extension of needed services and facilities feasible.* Just and Equitable Facilities and Services An uneven distribution of amenities along race and class lines reflects long legacies of racism and discrimination in how public facilities and services are provided. Environmental justice efforts seek equitable access to community investments, and SB 1000 requires that local agencies prioritize public investments in Impacted Communities, as discussed further in the Stronger Communities Element. Figure PFS-1 shows the locations of existing community facilities countywide in relation to Impacted Communities. The policy guidance in this section seeks to combat historic discrimination by promoting equitable distribution of and access to public facilities and services, and prioritizing improvements in Impacted Communities. This includes the types of facilities shown on Figure PFS-1, as well as technological resources like broadband internet to promote success in the Information Age and equitable code enforcement to promote healthy and safe neighborhoods. Goal PFS-2 Policies PFS-P2.1 Ensure County facilities and services meet the needs of all users, regardless of age, ability, race, ethnicity, culture, language, gender identity, or economic status. PFS-P2.2 Pursuant to SB 1000, as part of the County’s annual budgeting process, prioritize investments in public facilities, infrastructure, and services that benefit Impacted Communities and respond to their needs, particularly those needs identified in their Community Profiles. PFS-P2.3 Coordinate with service providers (e.g., water, wastewater, transit, and recreation districts) and advocate for proper planning, maintenance, and implementation of services and infrastructure to ensure efficient service delivery in Impacted Communities. Goal PFS-2 Public facilities, infrastructure, and services that meet the needs of, and are accessible to, residents of Impacted Communities. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -5 FIGURE PFS-1 COMMUNITY SERVICES FOR IMPACTED COMMUNITIES 8 -6 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element PFS-P2.4 Continue to provide contact information for the Code Enforcement Section of the Department of Conservation and Development (DCD) on the front page of the DCD website. Maintain clear, simple lines of communication for residents to reach the County regarding code enforcement and nuisance complaints, and ensure equitable, prompt responses. PFS-P2.5 Continue to prioritize and adequately fund code enforcement and clean-up of illegal dumping on public and private property in Impacted Communities. Actions PFS-A2.1 Establish funding and financing mechanisms in Impacted Communities to provide and maintain community-desired public facilities and services. These could be County- or community-initiated, and include business improvement districts, green benefit districts, and similar mechanisms. PFS-A2.2 Establish an entity within the County tasked with ensuring that County services and facilities in Impacted Communities are coordinated, prioritized, and delivered efficiently and effectively. PFS-A2.3 Implement and maintain urban greening and green infrastructure, such as sustainable/green street projects, in Impacted Communities. PFS-A2.4 Regularly assess Code Enforcement responses and Public Works maintenance practices to ensure equitable implementation. Prioritize resources to keep Impacted Communities safe and clean, emphasizing enforcement actions on issues identified in Community Profiles. PFS-A2.5 Work with the Contra Costa Crisis Center to provide Code Enforcement contact information through the 211 Contra Costa information service. PFS-A2.6 Pursue public-private partnerships that will improve access to reliable, fast, and affordable internet and make digital resources available in Impacted Communities at affordable prices. Funding Services and Infrastructure Financing capital improvements and public services within Contra Costa County is complex, given the large number of agencies involved. As urban growth continues throughout the county, demands for public services and infrastructure will increase, which can place higher fiscal burdens on service providers. Meanwhile, many service providers lack adequate funding for ongoing maintenance and eventual replacement of existing infrastructure, Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -7 much of which was constructed in the decades immediately following World War II. Special financing mechanisms may be required to support major new development. These could include County Service Areas, community facilities districts, or other benefit assessment districts that fund services through a special tax on properties within the service area. New development is also subject to the County’s impact fee programs, which apply fees to development projects proportionate to the cost of providing public facilities and services to the development. Streetscape improvements like this project along Fred Jackson Way in North Richmond are provided by the County’s Public Works Department. Goal PFS-3 Policies PFS-P3.1 Coordinate with LAFCO, infrastructure and service providers, and cities to ensure infrastructure and services are reliable and provided in a cost-effective and equitable manner.* PFS-P3.2 Require new development to pay its fair share of public improvement costs for infrastructure, facilities, maintenance, and services based on the proportionate cost of serving the project.* PFS-P3.3 When new development cannot adequately be served by existing infrastructure and facilities or through the County’s impact fee programs, require a public facilities financing plan that identifies the necessary public improvements and establishes an equitable plan to pay for and develop the required improvements.* PFS-P3.4 When communities request levels of County services that exceed the countywide standard, require creation of (or annexation into) a County Service Area, community Goal PFS-3 Adequate, fair, and cost-effective funding for public facilities, infrastructure, and services. 8 -8 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element facilities district, or equivalent mechanism to fund the supplemental service costs. Allow exceptions for enhanced services in Impacted Communities if alternative funding sources can be identified.* PFS-P3.5 When new development needs ongoing infrastructure maintenance that exceeds County standards or existing funding levels, require creation of or annexation to a County service area, community facilities district, benefit assessment district, or other special funding unit to pay for those maintenance activities.* PFS-P3.6 When adopting, amending, and imposing impact fees, community benefits agreements, and developer exactions, consider the effects of such fees and exactions upon individual project economics, housing supply, economic development, and the County’s broad goals and objectives related to overall community development. If gap funding can be identified, consider fee reductions or exemptions for projects in Impacted Communities that are consistent with the community objectives identified in their Community Profile. Actions PFS-A3.1 Implement an equitable and standardized approach to property tax sharing with cities during the annexation process. PFS-A3.2 Regularly update development impact fees to ensure new development pays its fair share of infrastructure and service costs.* WATER AND WASTEWATER Water service consists of transmission of raw water from its source to a treatment facility, treatment, and then distribution through a network of pressurized pipes. Water service in unincorporated urban parts of Contra Costa County is provided by special districts and some cities, as shown in Figure PFS-2. The major water service providers in the unincorporated county are East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) and Contra Costa Water District (CCWD). ● EBMUD provides treated water to approximately 1.4 million customerspeople in western Contra Costa County and portions of Central County. EBMUD brings water from the Mokelumne River watershed in the Sierra Nevada through three 81-mile aqueducts to the East Bay. Water is stored in a network of reservoirs, including Briones, Lafayette, San Pablo, and San Leandro in Contra Costa and Alameda Counties prior to treatment. ● CCWD provides treated and untreated water to approximately 500,000 customerspeople in the urbanized parts of central and northeastern Contra Costa County that are not serviced by EBMUD, as well as some eastern parts of the county. Customers include municipalities, industrial facilities, businesses, and residences. CCWD’s water is sourced from the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta via the 48-mile Contra Costa Canal. CCWD also stores water at Los Vaqueros Reservoir in East County, southwest of Byron, before it is delivered via the Contra Costa Canal. Properties outside of a water service district rely on individual groundwater wells or private water systems. East Contra Costa Irrigation District and Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -9 Byron-Bethany Irrigation District also make additional raw water available to properties in East County. Wastewater service consists of transmission of wastewater to a treatment facility, treatment, and then disposal of the wastewater and residual waste solids. As shown in Figure PFS-3, many special districts are responsible for wastewater service in unincorporated Contra Costa County. The largest wastewater service providers include Central Contra Costa Sanitary District 8 -10 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element FIGURE PFS-2 WATER SERVICE DISTRICTSPROVIDERS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -11 FIGURE PFS-3 WASTEWATER SERVICE DISTRICTSPROVIDERS 8 -12 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element (CCCSD), which serves most of Central County, and the West Contra Costa Sanitary District (WCCSD), which serves much of West County. Rural areas outside district boundaries rely on on-site wastewater treatment systems to treat sewage. Goal PFS-4 Policies PFS-P4.1 Support the goal of regional self-sufficiency as part of new water system planning efforts, where all regions in the state are required to implement a variety of local water supply options and institute conservation and reuse programs to reduce reliance on exports from the Delta. PFS-P4.2 Encourage water service providers to require separate service connections and meters for recycled water use or where large quantities of water are used for special purposes, such as landscape irrigation. PFS-P4.3 Support the State Water Resources Control Board’s efforts to eliminate small public water systems in new development. Allow such systems only for projects that cannot feasibly be connected to a public water system.* PFS-P4.4 Partner with water service providers to ensure continuity of service and provide financial relief to Impacted Communities if prices rise during drought conditions. PFS-P4.5 Require new development to demonstrate the availability of a safe, sanitary, and environmentally sound water delivery system with adequate capacity.* PFS-P4.6 Require new development to demonstrate the availability of a safe, sanitary, and environmentally sound wastewater treatment system with adequate capacity.* PFS-P4.7 Support CCWD’s planned Phase 2 Expansion of Los Vaqueros Reservoir. PFS-P4.8 NEW POLICY Partner with water service providers to protect water conveyance infrastructure, such as aqueducts and canals, from encroachment and pollution. PFS-P4.9 NEW POLICY Goal PFS-4 Water and wastewater services that meet current and future needs in a safe, resilient, and environmentally responsible manner. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -13 Deny applications to establish private wastewater treatment facilities within the Delta Primary Zone that would serve areas outside the Primary Zone. Actions PFS-A4.1 NEW ACTION Establish a standing drought and water shortage task force to facilitate drought and water shortage preparedness for sState small water systems and domestic wells within the County’s jurisdiction. PFS-A4.2 NEW ACTION Develop a plan to address potential drought and water shortage risk, including interim and long-term solutions for State small water systems and domestic wells. See the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element for policies and actions related to water quality, conservation, and management. DRAINAGE AND FLOOD RISK Unlike engineered domestic water and sanitary sewer systems, the pattern of stormwater drainage is determined by water's natural tendency to flow downhill. Consequently, much of the drainage system serving the county consists of natural drainage swales, ditches, and watercourses. Water ultimately drains into San Francisco and San Pablo Bays, or the Delta. Flood control infrastructure includes levees, drainage channels, and other structures designed to prevent creeks, the Delta, and other water bodies throughout Contra Costa County from overflowing their banks and causing floods. Conventional flood control infrastructure often incorporates concrete and riprap lined channels, detention basins, and other highly engineered solutions. Increasingly, communities and agencies are transitioning to “green infrastructure,” which focuses on using natural drainage swales, permeable pavement, and rain gardens to filter and absorb stormwater. The Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District (CCCFCWCD), which is a dependent special district governed by the County Board of Supervisors, is responsible for regional flood control projects. Incorporated cities and the CCCFCWCD have developed regional drainage plans in many areas to guide developers in implementing new drainage systems as part of development projects, and to provide the basis for local and federal flood control projects. On-site drainage infrastructure is provided and/or improved by developers as part of the land development process. Levees are especially important components of the county’s flood control infrastructure. Figure PFS-4 depicts Contra Costa’s levee system, most of which is owned and operated by public agencies such as reclamation districts. Similar to dams, levees hold back water and protect lower-lying areas from inundation. In Contra Costa County, many of these areas are at or below sea level. Levees protect critical infrastructure, including EBMUD’s water aqueductsintake and conveyance facilities, highways, railroads, natural gas pipelines and storage facilitiesfields, and electrical transmission lines, and moreas well as thousands of acres of private property. Many levees in the Delta region are unstable; they were constructed over 100 years ago on land that is settling due to subsidence and were not built to provide long- term protection. Since 1980, 27 Delta islands have been partially or completely flooded due to levee failure. Strengthening Delta levees is vitally important to safeguarding the lives and livelihoods of county residents and are equally important components of the county’s flood control infrastructure. In addition to protecting property from 8 -14 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element flooding, Delta levees form the backbone of the regional road system, ensure the continued existence of Delta towns and communities, and protect habitat for wildlife, including threatened and endangered species. They form a network of channels that entice boaters to explore the Delta and support a longstanding tradition of hunting and fishing. They also carry fresh water to the pumps that supply water to the farmers of the San Joaquin Valley and residents of the Bay Area and Southern California. Local levee-maintaining agencies have managed the financing and ongoing maintenance, rehabilitation, and repair of Delta levees, and have improved levee integrity, reducing overall Delta flood risk. Much remains to be accomplished, however, as Ssea level rise, increased storm frequency and intensity, and higher flows from greater rainfall and less snowfall as a result of climate change will continue to threaten levee stability and effectiveness. The California Department of Water Resources (DWR) implements the Central Valley Flood Protection Plan (CVFPP) to improve flood risk management in the Central Valley and the Delta. The CVFPP seeks to integrate and improve ecosystem functions concurrently with flood management investments and projects. It also calls for local agencies to protect urban communities (defined as communities with at least 10,000 residents) in the Central Valley from a 200-year flood, which is a flood that has a 0.5-percent probability (1 in 200) of occurring in any year. In unincorporated Contra Costa County, only Discovery Bay meets the criteria for 200-year flood protection. The capacity of Grayson Creek in Pacheco has been increased to protect against flooding. Goal PFS-5 Natural systems and flood-risk management infrastructure that can handle stormwater year-round and adapt to new and changing conditions. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -15 FIGURE PFS-4 LEVEE CENTERLINES 9 -16 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element Goal PFS-5 Policies PFS-P5.1 Support public and private efforts to improve protection against flooding, subsidence, and inundation, especially projects that achieve 200-year flood protection or better, factoring in anticipated sea-level rise, in areas of the county covered by the CVFPP. PFS-P5.2 Partner with responsible parties, public and private, to ensure ongoing funding exists for maintenance and rehabilitation of flood management facilities and structures (e.g., levees, pump stations, canals, channels, and dams), particularly those that do not meet adopted State or federal flood-protection standards.* PFS-P5.3 Allow for future height increases to private levees protecting inland areas from tidal flooding and sea-level rise by requiring rights-of-way and setbacks to be sufficiently wide on the levee’s upland side and prohibiting new structures from being constructed on top of or immediately adjacent to the levee. PFS-P5.4 NEW POLICY Evaluate projects involving water impoundment or conveyance to ensure they will not create a risk of seepage onto adjacent properties. Such projects must conclusively demonstrate that unacceptable seepage will not occur. PFS-P5.4PFS-P5.5 Support material stockpiling and equipment staging for emergency levee repair, especially in the western of Delta levees by:. (a) Consulting with reclamation districts to identify storage sites within the Delta Primary Zone. (b) Denying entitlements to convert identified storage sites to uses that would preclude storage unless the affected reclamation district(s) identify suitable alternative sites or determine sites to be converted are no longer needed. (a)(c) Denying entitlements for mining/extraction uses that would remove from the Primary Zone those materials deemed essential for levee repair. PFS-P5.5PFS-P5.6 EncourageWhenever possible, rRequire new developmentprojects with potential to significantly impact natural watercourses to establish or participate in programs that ensure ongoing maintenance of naturalthe watercourses to maintain their flood carrying capacity and habitat values. PFS-P5.6PFS-P5.7 When developing new or revised regional drainage and flood management plans, including plans to protect against sea-level rise, incorporate adequate setbacks and alternative drainage system improvements that provide aesthetic, recreational, and environmental benefits. Improvements should avoid structural modifications to watercourses and preserve riparian habitat and floodplains, and convert engineered drainage systems to more natural systems, when and where possible. In areas at risk of temporary or permanent inundation from sea- Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 9 -17 level rise, ensure that improvements can continue to provide adequate protection for the projected level of inundation by 2100 or the expected operational life of the project, whichever is later.* PFS-P5.7PFS-P5.8 Incorporate green infrastructure into new and retrofitted flood-control and streetscaping projects, including replacing existing asphalt and other hardscapes with green infrastructure, as feasible.* PFS-P5.8PFS-P5.9 EncourageWork with developers of properties along transit corridors andor in commercial or mixed-use areas to combine their privaterequired C.3/stormwater treatment facilities with green infrastructure on the adjoining street frontagepublic right-of-way to enhance the value and sizing of these facilities. PFS-P5.9PFS-P5.10 Encourage public participation in design processes for major flood control and sea-level-rise resiliency projects to ensure that these facilities are context-sensitive and provide multiple public benefits whenever possible. Actions PFS-A5.1 Identify existing developed areas where drainage maintenance issues exist and coordinate with each affected community to consider creating a benefit assessment district or similar local funding mechanism to pay for improvement and maintenance needs.* PFS-A5.2 Coordinate with responsible parties, public and private, to develop a flood risk management plan for the levee systems protecting the unincorporated county that: (a) Identifies the entities responsible for operation and maintenance of the levees. (b) Determines the anticipated flood levels in the adjacent waterways and the level of protection offered by the existing levees along the waterways. (c) Establishes a long-term plan to upgrade the system as necessary to provide at least a 100-year level of flood protection, and 200-year level of flood protection where required. (d) Considers the worst-case situations of high tides coupled with sea-level rise and storm-driven waves. (e) Protects beneficial uses of San Francisco Bay and the Delta and their water. (f) Prioritizes designs that foster riparian habitat while containing floodwaters, such as by using more natural materials, landforms, and vegetation, rather than concrete channels and other conventional flood-control infrastructure. (g) Encourages multipurpose flood-management projects that, where feasible, incorporate recreation, resource conservation, preservation of natural riparian habitat, and scenic values of waterways. (h) Takes a holistic approach to flood-risk management so that new infrastructure does not simply transfer flooding impacts from one property or location to another. 9 -18 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element (i) Considers flood and tidal impacts to existing brownfields, especially adjacent to shorelines. (j) Includes provisions for updates to reflect future State- or federally mandated levels of flood protection. PFS-A5.3 Develop watershed management plans incorporating best management practices that slow, spread, and sink water runoff to flatten the hydrograph (i.e., water flow over time) where erosion is a concern, while also enhancing wildlife habitat and recreation opportunities where feasible.* PFS-A5.4 Establish programs for development projects alongside natural watercourses that ensure regular maintenance of the waterway, including debris removal, erosion control, and conservation and restoration of native species.* PFS-A5.5 Coordinate with the Contra Costa County Mosquito and Vector Control District to identify and remedy areas with ongoing drainage problems to reduce disease risk from stagnant water. See the Health and Safety Element for policies and actions related to flood hazards and sea-level rise and the Parks and Recreation section later in this Element for policies and actions related to secondary recreational uses of flood- control infrastructure. SHERIFF, FIRE, AND EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICE Law enforcement services in Contra Costa County are provided by several agencies at various levels of government. In the unincorporated county, community policing is provided primarily by the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, with special districts like the Kensington Police Protection and Community Services District providing service in certain areas. Beyond police services, careful design of the built environment can also help prevent crime and increase the sense of safety. Research has shown that the certainty of being caught is a highly effective deterrent to criminal activity. Design elements that enhance visibility of public spaces, such as adequate lighting and windows and porches that encourage residents to have “eyes on the street,” can create safer environments. The policy guidance in this section emphasizes improvements to the physical environment that support an accessible and visible public realm. Additional policy guidance in the Stronger Communities Element addresses engagement with Impacted Communities to ensure the designs for public realm improvements allow residents and visitors to feel safe and welcomed. Fire protection services in unincorporated Contra Costa County are provided by six fire protection districts and onethree city fire departments that adequately cover the entire county except for Jersey Island, Bradford Island, Quimby Island, Webb Tract, and the Marathon Refinery near Martinez, as shown in Figure PFS-5. All fire protection agencies within the county have signed mutual-aid agreements to provide assistance to neighboring agencies. The firefighting capabilities of these agencies are further augmented by personnel and equipment from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 9 -19 The Contra Costa Fire Protection District operates this sStation 19 in rural Briones Valley. 9 -20 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element FIGURE PFS-5 FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICTS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -21 Contra Costa County Health Services contracts with the Contra Costa Fire Protection District, Moraga-Orinda Fire Protection District, San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, and American Medical Response to provide emergency ambulance service. Emergency response calls for the unincorporated county are fielded by the Office of the Sheriff’s Communications Center. Public safety response time standards provide a means to ensure that the community will remain safe as the county develops. The County strives to achieve the following public safety standards: ● Sheriff Response Times: Average law enforcement response time of five minutes or less for Priority 1 calls (where a threat to people may exist). ● Fire Response Times: o Four minutes or less response time for the arrival of the first engine company at a fire suppression incident, 90 percent of the time. o Six minutes or less response time for the arrival of the second engine company at a fire suppression incident, 90 percent of the time. o Eight minutes or less response time for an initial full alarm assignment at a fire suppression incident that does not involve a high-rise building, 90 percent of the time. o Ten minutes and 10 seconds or less response time for an initial full alarm assignment at a fire suppression incident that involves a high- rise building, 90 percent of the time. ● Emergency Medical Services Response Times: o Four minutes or less response time for the arrival of a unit with a first responder, 90 percent of the time. o Eight minutes or less response time for the arrival of an advanced life support company, 90 percent of the time. Goal PFS-6 Policies PFS-P6.1 Require new development to support effective law enforcement and fire protection by providing a safe and accessible public realm for all. PFS-P6.2 Design, improve, and maintain public spaces to maximize visibility and safety through appropriate lighting and landscaping. PFS-P6.3 During the discretionary review process for projects with potential to increase demand on fire protection services, consult with the applicable fire district to identify any upgrades to fire protection facilities, infrastructure, and equipment needed to reduce fire risk and improve emergency response.* Goal PFS-6 Efficient and effective law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical services for all communities. 8 -22 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element PFS-P6.4 Encourage multi-jurisdictional and mutual-aid disaster response training between all agencies providing emergency services within the county. Actions PFS-A6.1 Engage community members, law enforcement, and local leaders, and amend the County Ordinance Code to incorporate standards for new development that support a safe, accessible public realm for all through environmental design.* See the Health and Safety Element for policies and actions related to wildfire hazards and emergency response and the Transportation Element for policies and actions related to safe streets. SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT In Contra Costa County, the private sector is mainly responsible for solid waste collection and disposal, and the County is responsible for planning, administration, and facility approval. The County, Joint Powers Authorities (JPAs), and certain special districts enter into franchise agreements with private waste haulers to provide collection services. The County oversees solid waste management for about half of the unincorporated population, which is currently serviced by four different franchise agreements. Disposal facilities, which are shown in Figure PFS-6, are privately owned. Given the many entities involved, public and private, effective solid waste management requires significant coordination. Reducing waste in the first place, along with repairing or reusing items and materials, are important strategies for overall sustainability. The California Integrated Waste Management Act (CIWMA) requires cities and counties to adopt and implement waste diversion programs for source reduction, recycling, and composting, and requires that each county adopt a Countywide Integrated Waste Management Plan (CoIWMP); the County’s CoIWMP was adopted in May 1993. In addition to the CIWMA, the State continues to enact laws addressing solid waste and recycling. The County reports to the State annually regarding compliance with existing laws, including diversion goals and waste reduction measures. Waste that is not diverted is deposited into landfills, where it breaks down slowly and emits methane, a potent greenhouse gas (GHG), contributing to climate change. Methane emissions from landfills are a major source of the GHG emissions generated in the county. Landfill operators already capture a large proportion of this methane, which can be used to generate energy or converted to a liquid fuel that can be used to power vehicles and other equipment. There are opportunities for landfill operators to expa nd the methane collection infrastructure at the county’s landfills, capturing more methane and reducing the county’s GHG emissions. Illegal dumping is a large-scale pervasive problem in Contra Costa County and a high-priority issue because of its immediate and long-term adverse effects on health and safety, community assets, community pride, economic development, and natural habitats. Illegal dumping hot spots are widespread throughout the county, occurring on rural roads and agricultural land, in suburban neighborhoods, and in urban environments affecting many communities regardless of socio-economic status. However, Impacted Communities are disproportionately affected by illegal dumping. In 2018, the County formed an interdepartmental team and began implementing strategies to combat illegal dumping as part of the Contra Costa County Illegal Dumping Initiative. Strategies are grouped into four categories: educate, prevent, clean up, and enforce; they include a public outreach campaign to educate residents about dumping, street signs placed near dumping zones with information on how to report dumping activity, removal Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -23 of abandoned recreation vehicles, and dedicated law enforcement to investigate dumping crimes. 8 -24 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element FIGURE PFS-6 SOLID WASTE PROCESSING AND DISPOSAL FACILITIES Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -25 Illegal dumping in Bay Point harms community character, health, economy, and natural resources. Goal PFS-7 Policies PFS-P7.1 Coordinate with private solid waste collection and disposal companies, cities, and other appropriate agencies to plan solid waste management facilities that are safe, effective, and efficient.* PFS-P7.2 Coordinate with other jurisdictions to ensure that solid waste management, including solid waste resource recovery (e.g., reduce, reuse, recycle, compost, and waste-to-energy), is carried out in accordance with the CoIWMP and meets strict environmental standards.* PFS-P7.3 Strive to provide equivalent solid waste collection services and rates across each unincorporated community under County franchise control. PFS-P7.4 Ensure that new development complies with the requirements of the CoIWMP.* PFS-P7.5 Require new residential and commercial uses to provide adequate space for trash, recycling, and organics collection, as well as edible food recovery when applicable.* PFS-P7.6 Encourage new technologies for organics processing consistent with SB 1383, the Short-Lived Climate Pollutants Reduction Strategy of 2016. PFS-P7.7 Support expansion of recycling programs and efforts to locate convenient, accessible recycling centers in Impacted Communities. Goal PFS-7 Safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible solid waste diversion and reduction practices and management. 8 -26 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element PFS-P7.8 Consistently use a multiprong approach (i.e., educate, prevent, clean up, enforce) to combat illegal dumping. PFS-P7.9 Prohibit new landfills in ecologically sensitive areas, and require that new landfills be located, designed, and operated to avoid adverse impacts to surrounding land uses, including by limiting the area of landfill activities; limiting hours of operation; providing safe and appropriate transportation routes; maintaining site security; identifying associated off-site feeder transfer stations; grading to blend the landfill disturbance area with surrounding topography; covering refuse daily; and mitigating noise, odor, litter, and visual impacts.* PFS-P7.10 Require that new landfills provide the following: (a) An appropriate leachate collection and recovery system. (b) An approved erosion-control and drainage plan. (c) Geotechnical studies, including stability analysis, to determine the most appropriate engineering design. (d) A habitat enhancement plan that provides for at least a 3:1 replacement for lost significant habitat.* PFS-P7.11 Require new landfills to be designed and operated so that upon decommissioning they can be repurposed for other uses, such as renewable energy facilities, recycling and organics recovery operations, outdoor recreation facilities, and open space. PFS-P7.12 Require that new and expanded landfill operations significantly reduce GHG emissions to meet or exceed State targets to the extent feasible, and work toward carbon-neutral landfills. PFS-P7.13 Extend the life of landfills by continually striving to: (a) Reduce the amount of solid waste generated. (b) Reuse and recycle as much solid waste as possible. (c) Utilize the energy and nutrient value of solid waste (i.e., waste-to-energy and composting). (d) Properly dispose of remaining solid waste.* PFS-P7.14 Discourage direct public access to landfills and instead direct the public to transfer stations. Base the need for new or expanded transfer stations on economics, the need to mitigate traffic impacts, and the need to inspect refuse for hazardous materials and recyclables. PFS-P7.15 Ensure transfer stations provide adequate capacity to accommodate recovery of recyclables and organic materials and encourage organics processing.* Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -27 PFS-P7.16 Include a condition of approval in land use permits for solid waste facilities requiring review for compliance with permit conditions every three to five years.* Actions PFS-A7.1 Study the potential benefits of combining the County’s solid waste collection franchise agreements, or adjusting the boundaries of franchise service areas, to improve efficiency and consistency. PFS-A7.2 Streamline the permitting process for composting, organics processing, and repair/reuse facilities. PFS-A7.3 Partner with community organizations and solid waste franchise collection haulers to maximize participation in community clean-up days and residential on-call garbage pick-ups in Impacted Communities. Encourage community participation by holding these events in conjunction with other community events whenever possible. PFS-A7.4 Work with other counties, cities, and community members to establish public/private partnerships to combat illegal dumping. PFS-A7.5 Install signage and increase education, monitoring, enforcement, and rapid cleanup to discourage illegal dumping, especially in Impacted Communities and rural areas. PFS-A7.6 Use the County’s legislative platform process and partner with other public agencies throughout the state to propose and support legislation to combat illegal dumping. PARKS AND RECREATION Contra Costa County is an outdoor enthusiast’s delight. Whether it is a peaceful nature walk through Carquinez Strait Regional Shoreline, an exciting hike around historic Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve, fishing at a localnearby reservoir, or a fun day out with family and friends at a neighborhoodlocal park, the county offers something for residents of all ages and abilities. In this region, one can explore the beautiful landscapes, appreciate breathtaking views, enjoy outdoor activities, and learn about the local flora and fauna. This wide variety of activities encourages physical activity, learning, and socialization, while also providing opportunities for people to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors. Quality parks and recreational opportunities can also contribute to economic development by attracting visitors and promoting tourism. Overall, parks and recreation are essential to creating healthy, vibrant communities where individuals and families thrive. 8 -28 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element The Carquinez Strait Regional Shoreline provides trail recreation opportunities for residents and visitors. (Community-submitted photo) Most county residents are fortunate to have access to a variety of parks and trails in unincorporated areas, as shown on Figures PFS -7 and PFS-8: ● State and regional parks provide a broad range of recreational opportunities, such as hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, fishing, swimming, camping, group sports, and ecological and cultural education. This category includes Mount Diablo State Park and Marsh Creek State Historic Park, which are owned and managed by the California Department of Parks and Recreation, as well as many regional parks owned and managed by the East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD). In addition, EBMUD and CCWD offer recreational opportunities, such as hiking and fishing, as secondary uses within the watersheds of their reservoirs. The US National Park Service also operates the Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial at Military Ocean Terminal Concord, John Muir National Historic Site in Martinez, and Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site just outside Danville. ● Local parks are indispensable elements of our neighborhoods and communities. They serve as focal points where people can exercise and enjoy leisure time together, and include a variety of amenities such as sports courts, community centers, swimming pools and splash pads, playgrounds, playballfields, picnic areas, community gardens, and gathering spacesor other amenities. Local parks in unincorporated areas are typically owned and maintained by the County or a special district, such as a recreation and park district or community services district. The local park system is often augmented by similar facilities on school campuses. In some areas, private organizations such as homeowners’ associations maintain parks for their communities, sometimes allowing public access. ● Trails are essentially linear parks. Theythat provide safe connections between residential neighborhoods, parks, schools, and other destinations. Because of their connectivity, they also act as alternative commute routes in some communities, though typically they’re restricted to pedestrian, bicycle, and micromobility use. Major regional trails in Contra Costa County include portions of the San Francisco Bay Trail, a 500-mile network of trails along San Francisco and San Pablo Bays that is managed collaboratively by several agencies, including the Metropolitan Transportation Commission/Association of Bay Area Governments, and EBRPD; portions of the 50-mile Carquinez Strait Scenic Loop Trail that is managed by the Bay Area Ridge Trail Council; and the 26-mile Iron Horse Regional Trail, 13.5-mile Contra Costa Canal Regional Trail, and 19-mile Delta de Anza Regional Trail managed by EBRPD. The county is also crisscrossed by innumerable smaller, local trails, many of which are unpaved and informal. While not shown on Figure PFS-7, numerous parks within incorporated cities and towns are also available to residents of unincorporated areas. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -29 FIGURE PFS-7 FEDERAL, STATE, REGIONAL, AND LOCAL RECREATION LANDS 8 -30 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element FIGURE PFS-8 TRAILS NETWORK Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -31 The County coordinates with agencies at all levels of government to provide and maintain parks and recreational programs in unincorporated communities. The County administers and regularly updates the Parks Capital Improvement Program, which allocates funding to park projects and maintenance based on community priorities and budget availability. Park acquisition and development are also funded in part through the County’s Parks Impact Fee, which is a fee charged to new residential projects. The fee amount is based on the project size, location, and type(s) of housing proposed. Access to parks and open space is an important environmental justice issue. Impacted Communities, which are described in the Stronger Communities Element, often lack access to the range and quality of facilities that support a high quality of life and positive public health outcomes. This can be a significant driver of poor physical and mental health. It is important to correct this inequity by investing in Impacted Communities and ensuring that each resident has access to space for outdoor physical activit y. Ambrose Park provides play areas for children in Bay Point. Park standards provide a means to ensure that parks and recreation facilities are provided as the county develops. The County strives to provide 3 acres of local parks per 1,000 residents. This standard is an important tool for requiring new development to provide facilities when parks to serve new residents are lacking nearby. Goal PFS-8 Policies PFS-P8.1 Support development of a variety of local amenities that meet a diverse range of recreational needs, such as ballfields, all-abilities playgrounds, tot lots, spraygrounds, adult fitness courses, gymnasiums, swimming pools, sport courts, passive parks, pocket parks, urban gardens, and trails. PFS-P8.2 Provide a local park within a safe 10-minute walk for all residents in urban communities or within a 5-minute drive for residents in suburban communities, as indicated in Figures PFS-9 and PFS-10.* Goal PFS-8 An easily accessible, integrated system of high-quality parks and trails to meet the needs of all residents. 8 -32 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element FIGURE PFS-9 PUBLIC PARK AND OPEN SPACE WALKABILITY FOR URBAN COMMUNITIES Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -33 FIGURE PFS-10 DRIVE TIMES TO PUBLIC PARKS AND OPEN SPACE FOR SUBURBAN COMMUNITIES 8 -34 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element PFS-P8.3 IncreaseExpand access to diverse, high-quality parks, green spaces, recreational facilities, trails, and natural environments for residents of Impacted Communities, including by facilitatingthrough multiple transportation modes. Partner with other agencies and non- governmental organizations to obtain funding, and design and maintain these facilities to offer a safe and comfortable environment for residentsusers of all ages and abilities. PFS-P8.4 Prioritize and promote recreational activity programs and opportunities in Impacted Communities. PFS-P8.5 Whenever possible, rRequire projects subject to the Park Dedication or Park Impact Fee Ordinances to develop parks and recreation amenities listedidentified in, or addedproposed for addition to, the County’s Park Capital Improvement Plan. Park Impact fees or in-lieu fees should be assessed only when the County determines developer improvements are not feasible.* PFS-P8.6 Support expanded access to recreation opportunities by working with other agencies to co-locate parks and trails with public facilities, such as schools and utility easements, withprioritizing Impacted Communities prioritized. PFS-P8.7 Design recreational facilities to complement the natural features of the area, including topography and vegetation, whenever appropriate. PFS-P8.8 Support expanded public access to the waterfront and development of water-related recreational opportunities, such as fishing and boating. PFS-P8.9 Support development of a comprehensive and interconnected network of trails, including intra- and inter- regional trails like the San Francisco Bay Trail, Carquinez Strait Scenic Loop Trail, Great California Delta Trail, and Marsh Creek Corridor Trail, that provides public access to shorelines, ridges, and other scenic areas, connects residents with open space and nature, and links urban areas with parks and other recreational facilities. PFS-P8.10 Encourage use of abandoned railroad rights-of-way for trails or other public purposes and participate in collaborative planning processes to determine the best use of abandoned rail corridors. PFS-P8.11 Support local community groups and volunteer organizations in efforts to improve and maintain local parks, trails, and other public spaces, such as through an Adopt-A-Park/Trail program, especially in Impacted Communities. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -35 Actions PFS-A8.1 Create an internal County entity that works across departments and non-County agencies to coordinate planning and funding of unincorporated local parks, recreational facilities, and trails. PFS-A8.2 Coordinate with recreation and park districts and cities to prepare a parks and open space needs assessment for all unincorporated communities, prioritizing Impacted Communities. Integrate the results of the assessment into a Parks Master Plan and the Parks Capital Improvement Program and implement improvements that address barriers to outdoor physical activity, such as inadequate infrastructure and safety concerns. PFS-A8.3 Annually update park dedication and in-lieu fee requirements based on the Consumer Price Index for All Customers, All Items for the San Francisco-Oakland-San Jose Metropolitan Area to accommodate for increases or decreases in development costs. Conduct a fee study at least once every 10 years to reflect changes in the cost of land, local park and recreational needs, and development conditions.* PFS-A8.4 Maintain up-to-date maps showing quarter-mile and half- mile walking distances and five-minute driving times to public parks. PFS-A8.5 Study the feasibility of developing an equestrian trail network throughout the county’s rural areas. SCHOOLS Good schools are the building blocks of vibrant, healthy communities. Communities with good schools are great places to raise families, and a good education system not only attracts new residents, but also encourages young people to remain in the community as they start their own families. Good schools are also economic development drivers, as businesses are attracted to communities where employees will have access to quality education for their families. The 18 school districts providing K-12 public education that serve Contra Costa County are shown on Figure PFS-11. Verde Elementary School in North Richmond is one of many schools operated by the West Contra Costa Unified School District. 8 -36 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element FIGURE PFS-11 SCHOOL DISTRICTS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -37 Colleges and universities also play an important role in community life. Aside from the direct contributions they make to the local economy as large employers, post-secondary educational institutions provide critical workforce development and training through partnerships with local businesses and community groups. Post-secondary public education in Contra Costa County is offered at California State University, East Bay – Concord Campus and three community colleges operated by the Contra Costa Community College District: Contra Costa College in San Pablo; Diablo Valley College in Pleasant Hill, with a satellite campus in San Ramon; and Los Medanos College in Pittsburg. Numerous public and private colleges and universities, including prestigious institutions like the University of California, Berkeley and Stanford University, are also within 50 miles of Contra Costa County, providing county residents with extraordinary opportunities to pursue higher education. Goal PFS-9 Policies PFS-P9.1 When reviewing new development proposals, coordinate with affected school districts to ensure adequate school capacity is or will be available, school sites are designated or dedicated if necessary, and adequate access is provided.* PFS-P9.2 Encourage dedication of school sites through density transfer of the dedicated acreage or other incentives. PFS-P9.3 Encourage school districts to use school sites for multiple community purposes, such as recreation, and to locate new schools in conjunction with and/or adjacent to parks and trails. PFS-P9.4 Oppose efforts by school districts to locate new schools outside the Urban Limit Line. PFS-P9.5 Support efforts to enhance and expand access to higher education. Actions PFS-A9.1 Amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning and Title 10 – Public Works and Flood Control to regulate public school siting and construction of off-site improvements related to public schools, to the extent allowable under Government Code Sections 53094 and 53097. Ensure these amendments include requirements for roadway improvements, including complete streets and multimodal roadway conditions. See the Stronger Communities Element for policies and actions related to workforce development. Goal PFS-9 Primary, secondary, and higher education facilities that serve the varied educational needs of all county residents. 8 -38 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element LIBRARIES Libraries are some of the oldest and most important public institutions. They provide access to knowledge and enhance public literacy. The Contra Costa County Library works in partnership with the incorporated cities and towns to operate 26 libraries across the county, offering robust programming for all ages, preschool to adults, including English as a Second Language (ESL), Science, Technology, and Mathematics (STEM) courses for kids, technology and computer help, interactive educational performances, art s and crafts events, book clubs, free lunches for children, and other programs. Residents can also reserve group study rooms and meeting rooms for educational, cultural, and community-related meetings, programs, and activities. Local libraries provide access to numerous education resources and programs. Goal PFS-10 Policies PFS-P10.1 Prioritize expansion of library services in Impacted Communities. PFS-P10.2 Locate and design library facilities to provide access to the greatest number of people. Ensure they are sited in areas with broadband internet and close to public transit. PFS-P10.3 Provide adequate funding for maintaining and improving library operations.* Actions PFS-A10.1 Develop library service and facility standards, identify standards not being met, and seek necessary resources to achieve those standards.* Goal PFS-10 Library services that meet the informational and social needs of county residents. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element 8 -39 PFS-A10.2 Adopt a library impact fee to ensure new development mitigates its impact on library services.* PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES ELEMENT PERFORMANCE MEASURES To track progress in achieving the major goals of this Element, every five years, the County will collect data to assess its performance against the following measures. Progress will be tracked relative to the prior performance review and the baseline year of 2024. Based on the findings from the five-year review, the County may adjust policies, actions, or the approach to implementing them to improve performance, as needed. ● More dollars invested per capita on public improvements in Impacted Communities than in other parts of the county. ● Fire suppression incidents responded to with the first engine company within four minutes or less, with the second engine company within six minutes or less, and with the initial full alarm assignment within eight minutes or less (or 10 minutes and 10 seconds if it involves a high-rise building), 90 percent of the time. Emergency medical service incidents responded to with a unit with a first responder within four minutes or less and with an advanced life support company within eight minutes or less, 90 percent of the time. ● Increased percentage of homes within a 10-minute walk of a local park. ● At least 3 acres of local parkland per every 1,000 residents. ● Reduced number of illegal dumping incidents. 8 -40 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Public Facilities and Services Element This page intentionally left blank. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -1 9 HEALTH AND SAFETY ELEMENT State law requires every general plan in California to address natural and human-caused hazards and dangers and identify the potential risk of death, injuries, property damage, and economic and social dislocation from fires, floods, earthquakes, and other events. Contra Costa County is at risk from a number of natural and human-caused hazards, and climate change is likely to make many of these more damaging for people, buildings and structures, ecosystems, and other important community assets. This Element focuses on improving public health and safety and reducing the risk of hazards. It is organized into the following 11 sections: ● The Air Quality section includes policy guidance supporting clean air and promoting community and environmental health equitably throughout the county. ● The Greenhouse Gases section includes policy guidance to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Contra Costa County in support of statewide carbon neutrality and other GHG emissions reduction goals. ● The Climate Change, Resilience, and Adaptation section includes policy guidance promoting community resilience to climate change hazards. ● The Flood Hazards and Sea- Level Rise section includes policy guidance to mitigate flood and sea- level rise hazards. ● The Wildfire Hazards section includes policy guidance to minimize wildfire risks to residents, infrastructure, and natural resources. ● The Extreme Heat section includes policy guidance supporting resilience to an increasing number of extreme heat events per year. ● The Management of Hazardous Materials and Hazardous Waste section includes policy guidance to protect communities from past and present activities involving the use of hazardous materials and hazardous waste. ● The Seismic and Geologic Hazards section includes policy guidance to protect residents, property, and infrastructure from seismic and geologic hazards, including earthquakes, liquefaction, and landslides. ● The Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Evacuation Routes section includes policy guidance to maintain emergency response and recovery procedures, including effective evacuation capacity and capability, that protect human life and allow communities and economies to function during emergencies. ● The Noise and Vibration section includes policy guidance to maintain an acceptable level of noise and vibration in communities. ● The Health and Safety Element Performance Measures describe how the County will track its progress in achieving some of the major objectives expressed in this Element. Appendix B provides additional information about many of these hazards. 9 -2 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element This General Plan highlights policies and actions that address four major themes that serve as a framework for the Plan. For the reader’s ease, policies and actions related to these themes are identified throughout the General Plan using the following icons. The policies and actions related to each theme are also compiled in Appendix A. See Chapter 1 for more information about each theme. Community Health Environmental Justice Economic Development Sustainability Delta flooding, as occurred on Bradford Island in 1983, is a significant hazard in Contra Costa County. (Credit: California Department of Water Resources) AIR QUALITY Countywide Air Quality As basic and critical as it is to healthy living, clean air is not guaranteed in any community. Air quality in Contra Costa County is primarily affected by ozone pollution from vehicle exhaust and particulate matter from industrial centers and diesel trucks. Higher temperatures can increase surface ozone concentrations, which is associated with negative health outcomes, including reduced lung function, pneumonia, asthma, cardiovascular diseases, and premature death. Ozone concentrations are projected to inc rease in most places that already experience high levels, such as East County, by 2040. During cooler months, near-ground particulate matter is trapped in the air for longer periods of time due to an inversion layer, especially in the northern and eastern parts of the county where particulate matter rates are already high. Higher rates of particulate matter increase the likelihood of cardiovascular and asthma-related health complications. Contra Costa County is committed to protecting human health and the environment by meeting State of California and federal standards for all air pollutants. The California and National Ambient Air Quality Standards (CAAQS and NAAQS, respectively) are the air quality levels considered to provide a margin of safety to protect public health and welfare. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) regulates and enforces air quality laws, rules, and regulations set by the State. Local air districts are delegated the authority to regulate local stationary sources of air pollution to improve air quality. The local air district in the San Francisco Bay Area is the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD). Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -3 For over 60 years, BAAQMD has been tasked with improving air quality in the Bay Area and reducing exposure to air pollution, including “criteria air pollutants” like ozone, particulate matter, and toxic air contaminants (TACs), all of which are dangerous to human health. BAAQMD monitors and reduces air pollution throughout the region to achieve the air quality standards established by the State and federal governments. As of 2023, the San Francisco Bay Area Air Basin, which encompasses Contra Costa County and the rest of the Bay Area, is not meeting the State and federal standards for ozone and particulate matter. Improving air quality requires constant oversight and can involve significant expenditures and changes in behavior. Since the late 1980s, BAAQMD has required major stationary sources of air pollution (e.g., petroleum refineries and other heavy industrial sources) to reduce emissions to the maximum achievable level. In 2004, BAAQMD initiated its Community Air Risk Evaluation (CARE) program to reduce TAC exposure from stationary and mobile sources (i.e., cars, trucks, trains, and airplanes) in the Bay Area, and has more recently provided related planning assistance through its Planning Healthy Places guidebook. The Planning Healthy Places guidance maps communities with higher concentrations of air pollution, shares best practices to reduce health risks associated with air pollution, and encourages jurisdictions to address and minimize potential local air pollution issues early in the land use planning process, with technical guidance for implementation. Additionally, BAAQMD’s 2017 Clean Air Plan, prepared in cooperation with the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG)/Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC), includes several control strategies for reducing air pollution from new and existing stationary sources and vehicle travel. Freeways and other high-traffic roads, such as State Route 4, are a major source of air pollution. (Community-submitted photo) Goal HS-1 Policies HS-P1.1 Coordinate air quality planning efforts with State and regional agencies, such as CARB, BAAQMD, and ABAG/MTC. Goal HS-1 Air quality that supports community and environmental health. 9 -4 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element HS-P1.2 Prioritize Pparticipatione in emission and exposure reduction, public education, engagement, outreach, and other programs that promote improved air quality, focusing on Impacted Communities. HS-P1.3 Require new development to adhere to BAAQMD’s Planning Healthy Places guidance when local conditions warrant.* HS-P1.4 Require new industrial development to locate significant pollution sources as far awayat the maximum distance possible from sensitive receptors as possible.* HS-P1.5 Require new sources of air pollution that will generate significant new air quality impacts or expose sensitive receptors to substantial increases in harmful emissions of TACs to prepare a Health Risk Assessment that identifies appropriate mitigation consistent with BAAQMD California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Air Quality Guidelines, based on the findings of the Health Risk Assessment.* HS-P1.6 Require that any mitigation of air quality impacts occur on-site to the extent feasible to provide the greatest benefit to local residents in unincorporatedneighboring communities most impacted. For mitigation that relies on offsets, require that the offsets be obtained from sources as near to the project site as possible or from sources that would improve air quality in an Impacted Community. If the project site is within or adjacent to an Impacted Community, require offsets/mitigation within that community unless determined infeasible by the County.* HS-P1.7 Require construction activities that involve large grading operations to implement additional construction measures identified in BAAQMD’s CEQA Guidelines to reduce air pollutant emissions.* HS-P1.8 Require new or expanded commercial and industrial projects exceedingresulting in 25,000 square feet or more of gross habitable floor area, such as warehouses and other large enclosed buildings, to be near - zero-emissions (NZE) operations, including the facilities themselves and the associated fleets. Require all necessary measures, such as the following, to achieve NZEnear- zero emissions: (a) Reduce on-site energy consumption and increase on-site energy generation and energy storage. (b) Provide adequate on-site zero-emissionZE -vehicle- capable parking for all anticipated truck traffic to prevent idling and off-site queuing. (c) Provide electrified loading docks with receptacles allowing plug-in of refrigerated trailers. (d) Use heavy-duty trucks that are model year 2014 or later and expedite a transition to ZEzero-emission trucks by establishing a clear timeline for electrification of trucks as they become commercially available. Ensure contracts with motor Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -5 carriers include air quality incentives or requirements, such as providing incentives to fleets that meet United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) SmartWay standards or requiring use of ZEzero-emission or near-zero-emission NZE trucks. (e) Use a “clean fleet” of delivery vehicles as they become commercially available, but no later than 2025. (f) Use ZEzero-emission yard equipment, such as forklifts, pallet trucks and jacks, and stackers. (g) Implement practices to control and remove fugitive dust and other contaminants from paved areas. Uses with fewer than five vehicles domiciled on-site are exempt from this policy.* HS-P1.9 Prohibit nonessential diesel engine idling countywide and nonessential idling of all vehicles within 100 feet of sensitive receptors.* HS-P1.10 Support efforts to provide HVAC upgrades and portable clean air filters to persons who live in Impacted Communities and other areas burdened by disproportionate exposure to poor air quality. HS-P1.11 TBDEncourage modernization projects at existing industrial facilities that support State energy and climate goals and achieve all of the following: (a) Improved community and worker health and safety. (b) Enhanced environmental protection. (c) Significant reductions in criteria pollutants, TACs, and GHGs. (d) Timely remediation of preexisting and future on- and off-site contamination as a component of the project or through a fully funded work program that restores the site to a condition suitable for commercial or industrial use. HS-P1.12 Encourage installation of upgraded HVAC systems at schools, childcare centers, and similar uses located proximate to industrial facilities. Actions HS-A1.1 Consult with BAAQMD and community stakeholders and prepare an Air Quality Community Risk Reduction Plan that applies to areas with high levels of cancer risk, providing a comprehensive strategy to protect community members from the negative health effects of air pollution. HS-A1.2 Consult with BAAQMD and community stakeholders and amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to create an Air Pollution Exposure Overlay Zone around freeways that requires new construction in these areas to install enhanced ventilation systems and other strategies to protect people from respiratory, heart, and other health effects associated with breathing polluted air. 9 -6 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element HS-A1.3 Consult with BAAQMD and community stakeholders and amend County Ordinance Code Title 8 – Zoning to include an Industrial-Sensitive Receptor Interface Overlay Zone applied to areas where residential land uses and other sensitive receptors interface or directly abut heavy industrial land uses. In the overlay zone, require industrial uses to reduce pollution and employ strategies to mitigate air quality, noise, vibration, odor, light, visual, and safety impacts on nearby sensitive receptors. In addition, require new sensitive receptors to install enhanced ventilation systems and implement other strategies, paid for by neighboring sources of pollution to the extent possible, to protect residents from health and quality of life impacts. HS-A1.4 Consult with BAAQMD and community stakeholders and amend County Ordinance Code Title 7 – Building Regulations to include a clean construction ordinance that requires projects to implement extra measures to reduce emissions at construction sites in or near places that are already overburdened by air pollution, such as Impacted Communities. HS-A1.5 Adopt an ordinance at least as stringent as the State’s maximum idling law, and coordinate with CARB and law enforcement to achieve compliance. HS-A1.6 Develop a plan to provide convenient and accessible clean air refuges during times when outdoor air quality is deemed unhealthy. See the Transportation Element for policies and actions related to air quality associated with vehicular emissions. Air Quality in Impacted Communities Poor air quality tends to disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, such as children and people who are elderly, chronically ill, unsheltered, or on a limited income. Often these populations live in proximity to high-volume transportation corridors (e.g., freeways, railroads) or stationary sources of toxic air emissions. Despite the federal, State, and BAAQMD air quality standards and requirements discussed above, there are still communities in the Bay Area that are exposed to significantly more air pollution than others, and these communities are often home to higher-than-average proportions of vulnerable populations, low-income households, and people of color. As explained in the Stronger Communities Element, Impacted Communities are unincorporated communities that are disproportionately impacted by pollution and negative health outcomes. In Contra Costa County, they are located near refineries and other large industrial facilities, major freeways and high-traffic roads, distribution centers, and railroad lines. Figure HS-1 displays rates of diesel particulate matter emissions, or exhaust from diesel engines, in unincorporated Census tracts relative to the rest of the state, and demonstrates how communities near heavy industry and freeways experience the highest rates of diesel particulate matter pollution. CARB recently established the Community Air Protection Program in response to Assembly Bill (AB) 617, through which BAAQMD must implement community air monitoring and community emissions reduction programs for Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -7 communities most affected by air pollution. As of Fall 2023, BAAQMD, in partnership with community members in Richmond, San Pablo, and portions of unincorporated Contra Costa County, is completing the AB 617 Path to Clean Air (PTCA) Community Emissions Reduction Plan (CERP) to reduce emissions and exposure for people in these communities. Additional communities in the county may benefit from this program in future years. Emissions from heavy industrial facilities disproportionately affect Impacted Communities. (Credit: California Department of Water Resources) 9 -8 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-1 DIESEL PARTICULATE MATTER RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -9 Goal HS-2 Policies HS-P2.1 When evaluating health risk impacts of projects in Impacted Communities, use an excess cancer risk of 6.0 per million and a non-cancer (acute and chronic) hazard index greater than 1.0 as thresholds for finding that the project could cause a cumulatively considerable contribution and a significant impact.* HS-P2.2 Increase the tree canopy on public property, especially in Impacted Communities and areas with a high heat index, by prioritizing funding for new street tree planting and maintenance. HS-P2.3 Support protection, restoration, and enhancement of natural landscapes in and near Impacted Communities to improve air quality and community health. Actions HS-A2.1 Partner with community members and regulatory agencies such as BAAQMD to conduct data collection and monitoring of pollution exposure, prepare a community-scale plan for reducing and mitigating air pollutant emissions and industrial hazards, such as pipeline risks, accidents, potential water or soil contamination, and impacts to sensitive ecological resources for each Impacted Community, or group of Impacted Communities, as appropriate. Require future projects to demonstrate consistency with those plans. HS-A2.2 Coordinate with community members, BAAQMD, and other regulatory agencies to facilitate AB 617 citizen-led programs, including data collection, monitoring of pollution exposure, and identification and implementation of solutions in Impacted Communities. Consider future General Plan and Zoning Code amendments as needed to support BAAQMD in meeting AB 617 objectives. HS-A2.3 Conduct a housing condition survey in Impacted Communities to identify units likely requiring upgrades to provide adequate protection from toxic releases. Based on the survey’s findings, target outreach to provide information about weatherization and similar improvement programs. Goal HS-2 Healthy air quality for all communities, so no community bears the disproportionate burden of environmental hazards and health risks. 9 -10 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element HS-A2.4 Coordinate with BAAQMD to determine where to focus a targeted permit inspection program in Impacted Communities to help ensure enforcement of air quality permits. HS-A2.5 Prepare a tree master plan for the county that emphasizes planting of low-maintenance native tree species and includes quantified goals and tracking methods, including mapping the tree canopy, and prioritizes planting in Impacted Communities and along safe routes to schools. See the Extreme Heat section of this Health and Safety Element and the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element for additional policies and actions related to tree preservation and planting. GREENHOUSE GASSES Scientific consensus is that human activity involving the use of fossil fuels has resulted in an ever-accelerating increase in the concentration of heat- trapping gases, known as GHGs, in Earth’s atmosphere (termed the “greenhouse effect”). In California, communities are now adapting to the resulting climate change stressors: warmer annual average temperatures, changes in precipitation patterns, sea- level rise, and a reduction in snowpack. Recognizing the numerous threats posed by climate change, the State has set ambitious GHG emission reduction targets: ● Reduce community-widestatewide GHG emissions by 40 percent from 1990 levels by 2030. ● Reduce community-widestatewide GHG emissions by at least 85 percent from 1990 levels by 2045 and be on a path to support statewide carbon neutrality by 2045. Since 2005, the County has implemented various measures to address climate change, including efforts to quantify GHG emissions, prioritize climate change adaptation in local government, and use nature-based solutions to achieve GHG emissions reductions. In 2020, the Board of Supervisors declared that climate change “threatens the long-term economic and social well-being, health, safety, and security of the county, and that urgent action by all levels of government is needed to immediately address this climate emergency.” To support State efforts related to climate change and its own GHG emissions reduction goals, the County strives for net-carbon neutrality through a gradualconscientious transition to renewable and carbon-free fuels, resource conservation, sustainable practices, and other approaches. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -11 Solar panels help reduce reliance on natural gas and electricity providers and increase resilience for homeowners. The goals, policies, and actions in this section focus on reducing GHG emissions throughout the county. The County’s Climate Action and Adaptation Plan, one of the tools for implementing this General Plan, provides more specific strategies and actions to achieve Contra Costa County’s GHG emission reduction goals. Goal HS-3 Policies HS-P3.1 Prioritize implementation of the Contra Costa County Climate Action and Adaptation Plan to reduce GHG emissions from community-wide sources and adapt to changing climate conditions. HS-P3.2 Facilitate carbon-neutral development projects and communities that support a circular economy, net-zero- emission modes of transportation, reliable and renewable energy resources, energy-efficient buildings, zero waste, water efficiency and conservation, green infrastructure, soil conservation, and a system of natural and working lands that support natural carbon sequestration and climate resilience. Goal HS-3 Communities that reduce existing and anticipated GHG emissions in support of statewide carbon neutrality goals and other GHG reduction targets. 9 -12 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element HS-P3.3 Require new development projects using the Contra Costa County Climate Action and Adaptation Plan to streamline their environmental review of GHG emissions, as permitted by CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5, to demonstrate consistency with the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan and incorporate applicable GHG reduction and climate change adaptation measures.* Actions HS-A3.1 Update the Contra Costa County Climate Action and Adaptation Plan as needed to maintain consistency with CEQA Guidelines Section 15183.5(b), other State and regional guidance, and best practices. Future updates must include: (a) Inventories of GHG emissions in the unincorporated county. (b) GHG reduction targets for 2030 and 2045 at a minimum. (c) Forecasts of GHG emissions for the unincorporated county consistent with growth assumptions of this General Plan. (d) GHG reduction measures and strategies with quantifiable outcomes. (e) Climate adaptation and resilience strategies to ensure the county’s communities can respond to changing climate conditions. (f) An implementation and monitoring program to track the County’s progress toward achievement of the GHG reduction targets. (g) A community and stakeholder engagement program for Climate Action and Adaptation Plan preparation and implementation. HS-A3.2 Study the feasibility of establishing a low-carbon concrete requirement for all new construction and retrofit activities and consider additional strategies to reduce embedded carbon in construction materials. The intent is to determine what the County can and should do to support or exceed State requirements for net-zero emissions for cement use by 2045. HS-A3.3 Regularly review and revise the County’s purchasing and contracting programs as necessary to ensure consistency with the County's sustainability and GHG reduction goals. Every Element of this General Plan includes policies and actions that will contribute to reduced GHG emissions and a more sustainable future. CLIMATE CHANGE, RESILIENCE, AND ADAPTATION According to the California Climate Action Team—a committee of State agency secretaries and the heads of agencies, boards, and departments, led by the Secretary of the California Environmental Protection Agency—even if actions could be taken to immediately curtail GHG emissions, the potency Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -13 and long atmospheric lifetimes of emissions that have already built up, combined with the inertia of the Earth’s climate system, could still produce significant additional climate change hazards. Consequently, some effects from climate change are now considered unavoidable. To sustain the quality of life communities have come to expect, the County now must consider how to counteract potential threats to public health, buildings and infrastructure, economic drivers, biological resources, and key community services. In 2020, the County released the Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment, which analyzes how the changing climate can harm residents, buildings, ecosystems, natural resources, and more. Table HS -1 lists climate change-related hazards of concern identified in the Vulnerability Assessment. The goals, policies, and actions in this section address climate change through a resilience and adaptation lens. Individual hazards are addressed though policy guidance in subsequent sections of this Element. Goal HS-4 Policies HS-P1.1 When considering development proposals and land use changes, treat susceptibility to hazards and threats to health and human life as primary considerations. Goal HS-4 Resilient communities that are prepared for, responsive to, and recover from hazards created or worsened by climate change. 9 -14 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element TABLE HS-1 CLIMATE CHANGE HAZARDS OF CONCERN IN CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Hazard Climate Change-Induced Impacts Agricultural Pests and Diseases Disease-carrying pests are most active during warmer months, so the threat of infection or infestation rises with temperatures, thereby harming crops and rangelands. Air Quality Higher temperatures can increase surface ozone and particulate matter concentrations, which are associated with reduced lung function, pneumonia, asthma, cardiovascular diseases, and premature death. In addition, smoke from wildfires can increase air pollution levels, which can exacerbate many of the same health conditions as extreme heat. Bay Shoreline Flooding Rising sea levels mean that shoreline flooding from high tides and wave run-up can be more severe and frequent, damaging buildings, infrastructure, and important economic and environmental assets located in low-lying areas. Drought Changes in precipitation patterns are expected to cause more frequent and intense droughts statewide, reducing water supplies for homes, businesses, industrial centers, and agriculture. Extreme Heat The number of extreme heat days is expected to increase dramatically due to increases in annual average temperature, which can cause heat stress in humans, animals, and plants not adapted to these conditions. Power lines, roadways, and other infrastructure also may fail under higher temperatures. Flooding The frequency and intensity of floods is expected to increase with climate change, damaging buildings and infrastructure, and disrupting local economies and services. Floods can also exacerbate the growth of mold in indoor environments, threatening human health. Fog Tule fog (in East County) and coastal fog (in West County) are expected to decrease, which further increases temperatures and may have harmful effects on local ecosystems. Human Health Hazards Diseases carried by animals that are considered pests, such as mice and rats, mosquitos, and ticks are likely to increase, causing negative health outcomes for residents and visitors. Landslides and Debris Flows Landslides are expected to increase due to an increase in precipitation that can saturate the ground and wildfires that exacerbate slope instability. Severe Storms Severe storms, including heavy rainfall, high winds, and thunderstorms, may occur more often and become more intense than in the past. Sea- Level Rise As temperatures rise, sea levels increase globally and locally as a result of melting ice and warmer waters. Higher sea levels threaten buildings and infrastructure that may be permanently inundated in the Bay shoreline and Delta areas. Without intervention, sea- level rise could eventually necessitate movement and relocation of entire populations and communities. Wildfire Warmer temperatures, an increase in drought conditions, and greater prevalence of forestry pests and diseases are likely to c reate more ideal conditions for fires. Fire season is expected to occur at all times of the year, putting lives, buildings, and infrastructure at greater risk. Source: Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment, 2020. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -15 HS-P4.1 Address the effects of climate change, particularly the increased frequency and intensity of hazards, during review of new development applications. HS-P4.2 Discourage new below-market-rate housing in High and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones, the Wildland-Urban Interface, and Alquist-Priolo Fault Zones. If below-market- rate housing must be constructed within these zones, require it to be hardened or make use of nature-based solutions to ensure it remains habitable to the greatest extent possible.* HS-P4.3 Prioritize efforts to protect Impacted Communities and other vulnerable populations from the impacts of climate change, including through improving community capacity and meaningfully involving community members in decision making. HS-P4.4 As climate conditions change, evaluate the feasibility of implementing adaptive land use strategies to help avoid repetitive threats to life and property. HS-P1.2 In hazard-prone areas, such as slopes exceeding 15 percent, mapped floodplains, High and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones, and Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zones, allow for decreased residential density, including below the minimum density requirement for the applicable land use designation, as the severity of risk increases.* Actions HS-A4.1 Update the capital project planning and budgeting processes to account for anticipated effects of climate change hazards on County capital investments, including buildings and infrastructure, by integrating either the Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment or the best- available climate science data related to impacts, risks, sensitivities, adaptive capacities, and vulnerabilities. See the Land Use Element for additional policies and actions related to development in hazard areas. FLOOD HAZARDS AND SEA- LEVEL RISE Flood Hazards Flooding occurs when the natural and built systems that normally contain water are overwhelmed or fail. Floods can be caused by heavy or prolonged rainfall, clogged drainage infrastructure, and in rare instances, a break in a dam, levee, water pipe, or water tank. The water can build up and wash into normally dry areas and cause significant harm to buildings, people, and habitats. Construction of impervious surfaces (e.g., buildings and pavement) and reclamation of Delta land dating back over a century has reduced natural stormwater absorption, increasing flooding potential. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), California Department of Water Resources (DWR), and United States Army Corps of Engineers 9 -16 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element (USACE) map areas at risk of inundation from a 100-year flood, which has a 1 percent chance of occurring in any year, and a 500-year flood, where the risk of flooding is 0.2 percent annually, as shown in Figure HS-2. These areas are primarily located in northern and eastern Contra Costa County and along creeks throughout the county. They are mostly along what FEMA designates as a “regulatory floodway,” which refers to the channel of a watercourse.. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -17 FIGURE HS-2 FLOOD HAZARD ZONES 9 -18 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Climate change will likely enlarge the area of the county that is at risk of flooding. Further changes to these flood zones are likely as land use patterns shift and improvements are made to flood-control systems and channels. In Figure HS-3, these flood hazard zones are overlaid with existing development to illustrate how existing land uses are at risk of flooding. As discussed in the Public Facilities and Services Element, DWR implements the Central Valley Flood Protection Plan (CVFPP), which calls for local agencies to protect urban communities (defined as communities with at least 10,000 residents) in the Central Valley from a 200-year flood (i.e., a flood that has a 0.5-percent probability of occurring in any year). Discovery Bay is the only unincorporated community meeting the CVFPP threshold for 200-year flood protection. There are no mapped 200-year flood zones in unincorporated Contra Costa County, but the 500-year flood zone can be used as a proxy in low-lying portions of East County (i.e., areas mainly at risk of flooding from the Delta). DWR has developed Urban Levee Design Criteria to measure the level of flood protection in urban and urbanizing areas that is necessary to withstand a 200-year flood, as required by the CVFPP. Figure HS-2 displays areas with reduced flood risk because of levees. As also discussed in the Public Facilities and Services Element, levees exist across the county, with many protecting agricultural and rural areas of East County. There are over 1,100 miles of earthen levees and revetments managed by the Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District and 13 reclamation districts in the county. Rudimentary levees along local creeks and streams, in many cases constructed by adjacent landowners, also protect small areas. Wetlands absorb excess water and reduce flood risk. (Community-submitted photo) Earthquakes or overtopping due to major storms can cause levees to fail. The county has historically faced flooding due to heavy precipitation events and levee failures. In 1973, 1980, 1982, 1983, 1986, 2004, and 2009, one or more Delta levees were breached or failed. Some islands in the Delta have been flooded two or three times since 1980, which will likely occur more frequently with stronger storm systems and higher tide levels. Flooding can also be induced by dam failure, which is caused by structural failure or deficiency associated with intense rainfall, prolonged flooding, earthquakes, landslides, or equipment malfunction. There are over 20 dams of significant concern in Contra Costa County and another six dams outside the county that have inundation areas extending into the county. Figure HS -4 displays areas at risk of flooding because of a dam failure. Although dam failures are very rare, they aren’t unprecedented. Complete failure of the St Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -19 FIGURE HS-3 EXISTING DEVELOPMENT IN FLOOD ZONES 9 -20 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-4 DAM INUNDATION AREAS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -21 Francis Dam in 1928 killed over 400 people and destroyed several communities in Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. In 2017, over 180,000 people in several Northern California counties were evacuated when heavy rainfall caused partial failure of Oroville Dam’s main spillway. Each dam is required to have a comprehensive emergency action plan approved by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, and USACE and the California Division of Safety of Dams conduct inspections of all dams. Tsunamis, massive waves caused by offshore earthquakes, can severely damage property, take lives, disrupt emergency services, and obstruct roads through intense flooding. Figure HS-5 illustrates the areas that may be subject to tsunami inundation in Contra Costa County, which include shoreline areas along San Francisco Bay, San Pablo Bay, and a portion of the Carquinez Strait. Earthquakes with magnitudes below 6.5 are very unlikely to trigger tsunami, so it is a particularly rare phenomenon. The narrow open ing of the Golden Gate Strait also protects much of the inner Bay Area shoreline from severe tsunami impacts. Nonetheless, the County considers susceptibility to tsunami when reviewing development proposals. A seiche is a wave that can occur in an enclosed or partially enclosed body of water, such as a reservoir, bay, or harbor. Seiches can be caused by a variety of factors, including changes in atmospheric pressure, wind, and seismic or geologic activity. When a seiche occurs, it can cause water levels to rise and fall rapidly, which poses a risk to boats, docks, and other structures in the affected area. Seiches can generate waves that can inundate areas around the affected water body, similar to a tsunami. Additionally, seiches occurring in a reservoir can cause overtopping of a dam and result in regional flooding. While seiches are a risk associated with earthquakes and tsunamis, it is unlikely that one would occur in the San Pablo or San Francisco Bays or in the reservoirs in Contra Costa County. Goal HS-5 Policies HS-P5.1 Prohibit urban development in areas designated 100- or 200-year (or 500-year when used as a proxy for the 200- year) floodplain, as shown on Figure HS-2, or in areas subject to increased flood hazards due to subsidence or other changes, unless appropriate mitigations to reduce flood risk to the standards of the Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973 or above are implemented.* HS-P5.2 Require flood-proofing of new and expanded buildings and structures in any area subject to flooding. Flood- proofing methods will be determined on a project-by- project basis by the Floodplain Manager, and may include, but not be limited to: (a) Anchoring to prevent flotation, collapse, or lateral movement. (b) Using flood-resistant construction materials. (c) Elevating building pads and habitable building floors above the base flood elevation plus required freeboard. Goal HS-5 Minimized risk of loss of life, injury, damage to property, and economic or social dislocations resulting from flood hazards. 9 -22 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-5 TSUNAMI HAZARD AREAS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -23 (d) Providing adequate venting to allow for equalization of hydrostatic forces. (e) Employing any other construction methods and practices appropriate to minimize flood damage.* HS-P5.3 For any development project in a FEMA- or DWR- designated floodplain, require review by the Floodplain Manager to consider potential downstream flood damage that may result from the project.* HS-P5.4 Evaluate development within the Sacramento-San Joaquin Valley for consistency with DWR’s Urban Level of Flood Protection Criteria. Prohibit new single-family residences, density increases, subdivision maps, or development agreements for any property within a 200- year floodplain in an urban or urbanizing area, unless an adequate finding can be made pursuant to California Water Code Sections 9600 to 9603. HS-P5.5 Prohibit permanent buildings and structures in designated floodways where such impediments could increase risks to human life or restrict the floodway’s carrying capacity. HS-P5.6 Prohibit construction of critical infrastructure in areas subject to flooding or sea- level rise unless no feasible alternative exists. HS-P5.7 Require new subdivisions within the inundation area of a levee or dam, as shown in Figure HS-4, to include a deed notification explaining to future owners that the property may be subject to flooding if the levee or dam were to fail or be overwhelmed. HS-P5.8 Require new development in designated tsunami hazard zones to be designed to withstand anticipated tsunami forces, based on County-prepared studies conducted pursuant to Action HS-A5.4. Actions HS-A5.1 Review flooding policies and maps in this General Plan on an annual basis and incorporate best-available information regarding 100-, 200-, and 500-year floodplains and projected sea- level rise due to climate change. HS-A5.2 Establish countywide protection priorities for vulnerable communities and their populations identified to be at high risk of displacement from future flooding and sea- level rise in the Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment or the best-available climate science data and use regional funding mechanisms to plan and implement protection measures in these locations or for these populations. 9 -24 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element HS-A5.3 Amend the Floodplain Management Ordinance to address hazardous material storage. HS-A5.4 Conduct a study of existing development within designated tsunami hazard zones to determine evacuation and emergency response needs prior to and during a tsunami event.* HS-A5.5 Pursue a TsunamiReady designation and certification as a TsunamiReady Tier Two community. See the Public Facilities and Services Element for policies and actions related to flood hazards and sea-level rise; the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element for policies and actions related to floodplain management; the Land Use Element for additional policies and actions related to development in hazard areas; and the Sea-Level Rise section of this Element for policies and actions related to adaptive management of rising tides. Sea- Level Rise As global temperatures rise, glaciers and other land ice near the north and south poles melt, gradually raising sea levels. Higher temperatures also cause water to expand in oceans, further contributing to sea- level rise. Along the Contra Costa County shoreline, sea levels are projected to rise up to about 2 feet (24 inches) by 2050 and 7 feet (84 inches) by 2100. However, it is possible that sea levels could rise faster than these projections, which has happened historically. Figures HS-6 and HS-8 display the expected depth of water that would inundate dry land in Contra Costa County in 2050 and 2100 based on the Bay Shoreline and East Contra Costa Shoreline models from the San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission’s (BCDC) Adapting to Rising Tides Program. Land that is below sea level could be inundated by water deeper than the sea- level rise (e.g., 2 feet of sea- level rise could expose land 2 feet below sea level to 4 feet of water). Rising sea levels can cause the shoreline to flood more frequently and severely during storms or king tide events. For example, a storm that has a one in five chance of occurring in a given year (known as a five-year storm) can create a temporary increase in sea levels of approximately 2 feet. Because sea- level rise will cause ocean levels to be higher during normal conditions, shoreline floods will reach further onto land. Sea- level rise projections in 2050 and 2100 with shoreline flooding are shown on Figures HS-7 and HS-9. Rising seas increase the risk of flooding, storm surge inundation, erosion and shoreline retreat, and wetland loss. Rising sea levels also threaten a significant portion of prime agricultural land in the county, as low-lying areas could be subject to more frequent shoreline flooding and saltwater intrusion into groundwater basins could disrupt agricultural water supplies. Meanwhile, rising tides may increase groundwater levels, inundating contaminated soil and pushing toxins toward the surface. Given that some contaminated sites in Contra Costa County sit near the shoreline, rising groundwater may cause contaminated soils to leach into previously unaffected areas. Natural ecosystems in the Bay and Delta regions will be disrupted by the higher tide levels and intrusion of saltwater into freshwater systems. Historically, marshes have adapted to changes in sea level by building up sediment, increasing the height of the marsh to keep pace with the tide levels of San Francisco Bay, and by moving inland. However, sea- level rise is expected to outpace the rate of marsh -level rise and development near wetlands will likely prevent marsh migration. Without substantial intervention, most tidal marshes in Contra Costa County are expected to convert to another habitat type, a process called “downshifting,” which will lead to the establishment of different plan t and animal species. Some wetlands may be altered while others are lost. The use of nature- Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -25 FIGURE HS-6 2050 SEA-LEVEL RISE PROJECTION 9 -26 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-7 2050 SEA-LEVEL RISE PROJECTION WITH BAYSHORE/DELTA FLOODING Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -27 FIGURE HS-8 2100 SEA-LEVEL RISE PROJECTION 9 -28 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-9 2100 SEA-LEVEL RISE PROJECTION WITH BAYSHORE/DELTA FLOODING Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -29 based solutions, which combine natural buffers like wetlands or bluffs with traditional infrastructure to mitigate flooding risks, could be an opportunity to preserve existing ecological communities and protect natural habitats. The goals, policies, and actions in this section focus on planning for a medium- to high-risk aversion (1-in-200 chance) scenario in 2100, which projects 84 inches of sea level rise by 2100 under State guidance prepared in 2018. This scenario uses a higher level of caution, which helps in planning for more vulnerable developments or populations that will have a harder time adapting to sea-level rise and will experience more severe consequences from underestimating it. Sea-level rise resulting from climate change will inundate marinas over the next century. Goal HS-6 Policies HS-P6.1 Require new development to locate habitable areas of buildings above the highest water level expected, based on Figures HS-6 through HS-9, accounting for sea -level rise and other changes in flood conditions, or construct natural and nature-based features, or a levee if necessary, adequately designed to protect the project for its expected life.* HS-P6.2 Support tidal wetland restoration projects in a manner consistent with community needs of flood-risk reduction, habitat and biodiversity conservation, and water quality protection. HS-P6.1 Require new industrial development in areas subject to sea-level rise, emergent groundwater flooding, or tsunami inundation to provide plans for prevention and remediation of any contaminant releases induced by these hazards, along with bonds that guarantee remediation plans are implemented. Remediation should meet standards that protect people and the environment in the event of future permanent inundation. HS-P6.3 Work with transportation agencies and infrastructure owners, such as railroads, to increase the resilience of transportation networks against sea- level rise and Goal HS-6 Resilient and thriving Bayshore and Delta communities that are safeguarded and adaptively managed for rising sea levels. 9 -30 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element increases in flooding intensity, including emergent groundwater flooding. HS-P6.4 Work with property owners in areas prone to emergent groundwater flooding to pre-emptively harden properties using methods that minimize erosion, subsidence, and structural damage from rising waters.* Actions HS-A6.1 Amend the Floodplain Management Ordinance to apply to areas subject to sea- level rise under at least a medium- high risk aversion scenario by 2100, in accordance with State and regional guidance.* HS-A6.2 Adopt a Sea-Level Rise Overlay Zone with associated land use regulations for site planning and minimum construction elevations that reflects sea- level rise data under at least a medium-high risk aversion scenario by 2100. Refer to BCDC policy guidance when developing this overlay zone. HS-A6.3 Coordinate with BCDC, Delta Stewardship Council, Caltrans, cities, and other affected agencies, organizations, and stakeholders to prepare and adopt a community-driven countywide sea- level rise adaptation and resilience plan addressing increased flooding and sea- level rise that provides unique adaptation options for the entire county shoreline and identifies funding mechanisms for implementation. Use Figures HS-6 through HS-9 or the best-available climate science data to identify where sea-level rise hazards are likely to occur and lead efforts to: (a) Maximize awareness and disclosure to property owners and the public. (b) Assess and address impacts to future development, including promoting the Adaptation Pathways model to respond to uncertainty and evolving conditions. (c) Plan for resiliency projects and adaptation measures to protect existing development and infrastructure, emphasizing nature-based solutions. (d) Partner with the Adapting to Rising Tides Program, Delta Stewardship Council, property owners, and community-based organizations to conduct a study of opportunities and costs for shifting development away from areas at risk from inundation. (e) Inform governance, funding, and financing decisions about short-term and long-term resiliency and adaptation projects. (f) Ensure that the disproportionate impacts on vulnerable populations and Impacted Communities are addressed. HS-A6.1 Coordinate with the BCDC, Delta Stewardship Council, cities, and other involved agencies and stakeholders to create a joint-powers authority or public-private partnership to develop, fund, and implement relevant, regionally coordinated sea-level rise adaptation measures that leverage the results of Adapting to Rising Tides, Bay Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -31 Adapt, Delta Adapts, and other studies and programs. HS-A6.4 Partner with cities and CCTA to develop and fund a countywide plan to increase the resiliency of roads that will be impacted by sea- level rise and tsunamis to ensure emergency responders can get to those in need and that community members, including those that rely on public transit, can continue to reach services. HS-A6.5 Work with State and regional agencies to conduct improved modeling of the areas at risk from emergent groundwater flooding to better understand the threat this hazard poses to Contra Costa County. HS-A6.6 Incorporate Figures HS-6 through HS-9 into the County’s geographic information system for use as a publicly accessible tool for tracking flooding and sea- level rise. WILDFIRE HAZARDS Wildfires are a regular feature of the landscape in much of California and can be sparked by lightning, malfunctioning equipment, carelessness, and other causes. In addition to direct fire impacts on people and property, wildfires remove stabilizing vegetation from hillsides, increasing the likelihood of future landslides and erosion. When wildfires burn at very high temperatures, soils can become hydrophobic, preventing the ground from absorbing stormwater and causing flooding downslope. Wildfire smoke is also harmful and can impact people hundreds of miles from the fire itself. Particulate matter from smoke can cause respiratory illnesses, especially for those who spend substantial time outdoors during smoky conditions or whose homes are poorly sealed and allow smoke to penetrate. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) designates lands into responsibility areas based on who is financially responsible for fire protection services. Local Responsibility Areas (LRAs) include areas where local fire protection districts and fire departments are charged with fire protection. State Responsibility Areas (SRAs) include unincorporated areas and State lands where the State/CAL FIRE has financial responsibility for fire protection. CAL FIRE can also provide fire prot ection services by contract to cities and counties. Contra Costa County has a mutual-aid agreement with CAL FIRE. and sSixeveral fire protection districts and onethree city fire departments provide fire prevention and protection services in the unincorporatedthat adequately cover the entire county, except for Jersey Island, Bradford Island, Quimby Island, Webb Tract, and the Marathon Refinery near Martinez., with theThe Contra Costa County Fire Protection District covering covers 553 square miles and is by far the largest arealocal fire protection agency serving the county (see Figure PFS-5 in the Public Facilities and Services Element for a map of fire district service areas). All fire protection agencies within the county have signed mutual-aid agreements to provide assistance to neighboring agencies. Within the responsibility areas, CAL FIRE designates lands within Fire Hazard Severity Zones. CAL FIRE designates lands within SRAs as Moderate, High, and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones; in LRAs, at the time the General Plan was adopted, CAL FIRE only designates land within Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones (with city and county approvals). CAL FIRE is expected to designate Moderate and High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the LRAs in future updates to these Fire Hazard Severity Zone mMaps. As shown in Figure HS-10, Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones are mainly in the interior of Contra Costa County, in areas with dense forest, brush, or grassland vegetation and steep terrain that is difficult to access. Wildfires may start in 9 -32 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element natural areas but can easily spread to developed areas bordering wildlands; this area is called the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) and is mapped in Figure HS-11. All Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in Contra Costa County are within the service area of a fire protection district. Information about the fire districts’ capacities is provided in Appendix B. Fire districts serving rugged, hard to reach areas are usually equipped with tank trucks because such areas typically lack public water infrastructure. Properties designated for Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -33 FIGURE HS-10 FIRE HAZARD SEVERITY ZONES 9 -34 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-11 WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE DEVELOPMENT PATTERNS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -35 residential use in areas without public water service are required to maintain sufficient on-site water storage and new development must show that it has sufficient water pressure for firefighting purposes. Within the SRAs and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones, there are existing homes, businesses, and public land uses, as well as associated infrastructure like major roadways (e.g., SR 24 and SR 4), electrical transmission lines, water and wastewater distribution systems, and communication facilities. Most of this development occurred prior to recent wildfire hazard mapping. The policies and actions in this section limit future residential development in High and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones and aim to protect existing buildings and infrastructure. Meanwhile, State law requires that homeowners in the WUI create and maintain defensible space around homes and other structures, keep roofs clear of flammable material, and use spark arresters on chimneys. Wildfires pose risks to residents and their homes and produce smoke that can impact the region. (Credit: USDA www.flickr.com/photos/41284017@N08/9599182665) From 2010 to 2022, there were 24 wildfires in Contra Costa County, most burning over 100 acres each. Some burned considerably more acreage, most notably the 2020 Santa Clara Unit Complex Fire, which burned 396,824 acres in total (3,305 acres in Contra Costa County). Figure HS-12 shows the perimeters of wildfires from 1950 to 2022. Areas that have previously burned, regardless of their location within or outside of a Fire Hazard Severity Zone, are likely to burn again. Because of climate change, fire activit y is projected to increase where development expands in the WUI, in addition to the dry hills around Mount Diablo. Goal HS-7 Policies HS-P7.1 Deny applications for new residential subdivisionsentitlements for projects creating additional residential lotsunits (i.e., units not allowed by-right) in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the LRA or SRA. and dDiscourage residentialsuch subdivisionsprojects in High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the SRA and discourage them in the LRA unless adequate fire protection services are provided.* HS-P7.2 Require any construction of buildings or infrastructure within a High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone in the Goal HS-7 Minimized injury, loss of life, and damage to property from wildfire hazards. 9 -36 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element LRA or SRA or in the WUI, as shown on Figures HS-10 and HS-11, or in areas that may be designated as the WUI to incorporate fire-safe design features that meet the State Fire Safe Regulations and Fire Hazard Reduction Around Buildings and Structures Regulation for road ingress and egress, fire equipment access, and adequate water supply.* Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -37 FIGURE HS-12 HISTORIC WILDFIRE PERIMETERS 9 -38 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element HS-P7.3 Require new development within a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone in the LRA or SRA (as shown on Figure HS-10), or in areas that may be designated as the WUI (as shown on Figure HS-11), or and on a residential parcel with evacuation constraints (as shown on Figure HS-21), to prepare a traffic control plan to ensure that construction equipment or activities do not block roadways or interfere with evacuation plans during the construction period. Work with the appropriate fire protection district to review and approve the traffic control plan prior to issuance of building permits.* HS-P7.4 Require subdivisions in the High Fire Hazard Severity Zone in the LRA or SRA and projects requiring a land use permit in the High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone in the LRA or SRA, as shown in Figure HS-10, to complete a site- specific fire protection plan. Work with the appropriate fire protection district to review and revise the fire protection plans. The fire protection plan shall include measures for fire-resistant construction materials and modifying fuel loading, as well as a plan to maintain that protection over time. The fire protection plan shall include: (a) A risk analysis (b) Fire response capabilities (c) Defensible space requirements (d) Fire safety requirements for infrastructure (e) Building ignition resistance (f) Mitigation measures and design for non-conforming fuel modification (g) Wildfire education (h) Maintenance and limitations (i) A plan for emergency preparedness, response, and evacuation* HS-P7.5 Work with property owners within mapped in High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the LRA or SRA, or in areas that may be designated as the WUI, areas to establish and maintain fire breaks and defensible space, vegetation clearance, emergency access roads, water supply and fire flow, signage, and firefighting infrastructure that meets current adopted State, County, or community fire safety standards. HS-P7.6 New Policy Coordinate with Caltrans and other agencies, local fire safe councils, and community organizations to ensure long-term maintenance of fire hazard reduction projects, including community fire breaks and public and private road clearance. HS-P7.6HS-P7.7 Promote installation of smoke detectors at the time of sale or lease agreement, and maintenance of smoke detectors in existing residences and commercial facilities that were constructed prior to the requirement for their installation. HS-P7.7HS-P7.8 Work with water service providers and fire protection districts to safeguard the long-term integrity of water Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -39 supplies to meet firefighting needs and ensure that new and existing developments in high fire risk areas have suitable water delivery infrastructure. HS-P7.8HS-P7.9 Construct critical facilities, such as Office of Emergency Services facilities and other uses on the County’s designated critical facilities list, with fire-resistant materials, defensible space, and fire-resistant landscaping that allows them to maintain structural integrity and ensure functional operation to the greatest extent feasible. Avoid locating these facilities in high fire risk areas to the extent possible.* HS-P7.9HS-P7.10 Coordinate with energy service providers to underground power lines, especially in the WUI and High and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones. HS-P7.10HS-P7.11 Work with energy service providers to ensure an adequate power supply to vulnerable populations during planned power shutoffs. HS-P7.11HS-P7.12 Facilitate post-fire recovery by supporting efforts to stabilize slopes, control erosion, and replant with native species. HS-P6.2HS-P6.1 Support State legislative efforts to reduce fire insurance costs and address resident concerns about rising liabilities and risk of dropped policies. Actions HS-A7.1 CollaborateWork with local fire safe councils, CAL FIRE Santa Clara Unit, and other fire protection agencies to update and implement the Community Wildfire Protection Plan for Contra Costa County.* HS-A7.2 Support local fire protection agencies with efforts to seek funding for development and implementation of a continuous vegetation management program in fire hazard severity zones and WUI areas. HS-A7.3 Update countywide fire hazard severity zone and WUI mapping as new data becomes available from the California Board of Forestry and Fire Protection. HS-A7.4 Upon future updates to LRA mapping, as promulgated by CAL FIRE, identify and as necessary adopt a WUI zone. HS-A7.4HS-A7.5 Following a large fire, evaluate the feasibility and resilience of redevelopment, and consider changes to 9 -40 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element building or development standards to improve resilience. HS-A7.5HS-A7.6 Collaborate with local and regional fire safe councils, CAL FIRE Santa Clara Unit, and other fire protection agencies to develop a fire safe education program to provide information about State fuel modification, defensible space, access, water, signage, and other fire safe regulations.* HS-A7.6HS-A7.7 Pursue grants and other funding mechanisms to retrofit ventilation systems at County buildings to provide refuge for residents during periods of unhealthy air quality caused by excessive wildfire smoke. See the Public Facilities and Services Element for policies and actions related to fire and emergency services and the Land Use Element for additional policies and actions related to development in hazard areas. EXTREME HEAT Extreme heat occurs when temperatures rise significantly above normal levels; it is defined as a daytime temperature that exceeds the 90th percentile of the historic average temperature for that date. Extreme heat is a relative term, and different temperatures in different parts of Contra Costa County qualify as extreme heat events because people and buildings accustomed to cooler average temperatures may be less prepared for extreme heat events. For example, an extreme heat day in Rodeo is when temperatures reach 93 degrees Fahrenheit (oF), while in Alamo it is 97oF, and in Knightsen it is 102oF. Extreme heat can cause various heat -related illnesses, such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Seniors (particularly those living alone), small children, outdoor workers, people with chronic illnesses, unsheltered persons, persons living in multiple-family housing without air conditioning, and those on certain medications are particularly susceptible to heat illnesses. Nursing homes and elder-care facilities are especially vulnerable to extreme heat events if power outages occur and air conditioning or electricity-powered medical devices are not available. In addition, when extreme heat days occur while the air is smokey from wildfires, residents may have to choose between opening windows to cool their homes, letting in smoke, or keeping windows closed, causing dangerous indoor air temperatures. Extreme heat has various other impacts. Some types of infrastructure, including power lines, communications equipment, railways, and roadways, are more prone to failure when temperatures are high. An example occurred in Contra Costa County in June 2022, when extreme heat buckled BART tracks causing a derailment. Very high temperatures increase demand for electricity, which can lead to outages and associated health and economic impacts. Extreme heat can also increase the risk of wildfires by drying out plants, exacerbating drought conditions, and harming wildlife that is not adapted to these conditions. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -41 Extreme heat can exacerbate drought conditions. (Credit: National Park Service) Historically, Contra Costa County has experienced an average of four extreme heat days a year. Figure HS-13 displays the projected average annual temperatures for 2070 through 2099. By the end of the century, the county is projected to experience an annual average of 18 to 30 extreme heat days per year. 9 -42 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-13 TEMPERATURE FORECAST Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -43 Goal HS-8 Policies HS-P8.1 Coordinate with public agencies, utilities, and community- based organizations to provide community resilience centers in all regions of the county during extreme heat events, severe weather events, and other highly hazardous conditions. Work to ensure that these facilities are in highly accessible areas and that information about their availability is widely distributed, especially to vulnerable populations. HS-P8.2 Work with energy service providers to promote programs encouraging reduced energy use during extreme heat events. HS-P8.3 Require new commercial parking lots with 50 or more spaces to mitigate heat gain through installation of shade trees, solar arrays, or other emerging cooling technologies. Prioritize the use of solar arrays where feasible and appropriate. HS-P8.4 Support efforts by East Bay Regional Park District and other local recreation agencies to provide outdoor recreation facilities with adequate shading and refillable water stations where appropriate. HS-P8.5 Provide shade trees or shade structures at parks, plazas, and other outdoor spaces. Actions HS-A8.1 Amend County Ordinance Code Chapter 82-16 – Off- Street Parking to achieve consistency with Policy HS-P8.3. See the Air Quality section of this Element and the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element for additional policies and actions related to tree preservation, planting, and air quality. MANAGEMENT OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS AND HAZARDOUS WASTE Heavy industrial uses play a large role in the history of Contra Costa County, particularly along its west and north coasts, where historic and ongoing activities handle, store, and transport vast amounts of hazardous materials and hazardous waste. Land uses involving hazardous materials include Military Ocean Terminal Concord (MOTCO), petroleum and chemical processing plants, oil and gas wells, power plants, ammonia refrigeration facilities, and petroleum product and natural gas storage and pipelines. Goal HS-8 Communities that can continue to function and thrive with an increase in average temperatures and extreme heat days. 9 -44 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Potential hazards include release of flammable materials that could cause an explosion or fire along with smoke and combustion byproducts, and chemical releases with various levels of chemical toxicity. Notwithstanding industrial safety procedures, the presence of hazardous materials in large quantities, especially close to or upwind of populated areas, poses a constant safety hazard. Hazardous materials and hazardous waste facilities are heavily regulated by the State and federal governments, including the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) and the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB). Preventing environmental releases of hazardous materials depends primarily on compliance with industrial safety requirements and procedures regulated by the DTSC. The California Fire Code also minimizes public safety risks by requiring a buffer between hazardous materials use areas and residential populations. Pipelines transport crude oil through Rodeo and other communities. Contra Costa Hazardous Materials Programs (CCHMP) is the Certified Unified Program Agency (CUPA) for all of Contra Costa County. As the CUPA, CCHMP administers the State’s hazardous materials regulatory programs through routine inspections at sites that handle hazardous materials, as well as the County’s Industrial Safety Ordinance and Unannounced Inspection, Green Business, and Pollution Prevention programs. The County Office of Emergency Services (OES) is responsible for planning, outreach, and training related to disaster management and emergency preparedness. Hazardous materials releases are reported to OES to ensure a coordinated response by County emergency services, such as fire and medical units, and evacuation notification, if needed. Sites that have been contaminated with hazardous materials or hazardous waste can be remediated to protect human health and the environment. Remediation typically occurs in three stages. In the first phase, the current or prospective property owner performs an environmental assessment in which they review records to determine if the potential exists for exposure to hazardous materials. If potential contamination is discovered, environmental samples are collected and a health risk assessment is prepared. If the assessment identifies significant contamination, DTSC implements Health and Safety Code requirements to perform necessary cleanup activities. DTSC or the SWRCB oversees the assessment and remediation process; the County has no role in cleanup and remed iation of contaminated sites, although it is an issue of significant concern to county residents and is typically considered during development review processes. Reducing community exposure to hazardous materials is crucial in Impacted Communities to address the health disparities caused by exposure to hazardous materials from historic and ongoing activities. As shown in Figures HS-14 through HS-16, there are higher concentrations of toxic releases, Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -45 hazardous waste generators and facilities, and cleanup sites in and around Impacted Communities than many other parts of the county. 9 -46 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-14 TOXIC RELEASES RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -47 FIGURE HS-15 HAZARDOUS WASTE GENERATORS AND FACILITIES RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE 9 -48 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-16 CLEAN-UP SITES RANKINGS RELATIVE TO THE STATE Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -49 Goal HS-9 Policies HS-P9.1 Provide equitable inspection and enforcement of hazardous material and hazardous waste regulations throughout the county. HS-P9.2 Ensure CCHMP staff have an opportunity to review and comment on developmentall entitlement applications for projects involving use of hazardous materials or hazardous waste regardless of whether a land use permit is required pursuant to County Ordinance Code Chapter 84-63 – Land Use Permits for Development Projects Involving Hazardous Waste or Hazardous Material. HS-P9.3 Require new industrial development to reduce generation and disposal of hazardous materials to the maximum extent feasible by (listed in order of importance): (a) Implementing operational source reduction strategies and replacing hazardous materials with less hazardous materials. (b) Reducing generation of those wastes not amenable to source reduction or recycling. (c) Recovering and recycling the remaining waste for reuse. (d) Properly disposing of hazardous wastes and residuals generated from treatment of hazardous waste.* HS-P9.4 Support development of alternative hazardous waste management technologies and methodologies that reduce the relative risk to human health and the environment. HS-P9.5 Require facilities that manage hazardous materials or hazardous waste in stationary or fixed storage tanks and that are in areas at risk of inundation from sea-level rise and flooding to conduct sea-level rise studies to address the risk of hazardous materials release from rising water levels, including rising groundwater. Require these facilities to incorporate best management practices to reduce the risk of release.Require industrial projects involving use, management, or generation of hazardous materials or waste, particularly those utilizing stationary or fixed storage tanks, in areas at risk from sea-level rise, surface or emergent groundwater flooding, or tsunami to incorporate best management practices to reduce risk and prepare plans for prevention and remediation of hazardous materials/waste releases resulting from inundation. Remediation plans must meet regulatory standards for protection of people and the environment in Goal HS-9 Communities that are protected from hazards associated with use, manufacture, transport, storage, treatment, and disposal of hazardous materials and hazardous waste, including from fossil fuels, chemical refining, and power plants, as well as pipelines, rail lines, and truck transportation. 9 -50 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element the event of permanent inundation and include financial assurances to guarantee implementation.* HS-P9.6 Require transport of hazardous materials via the safest available method for each material, avoiding Impacted Communities, populated areas, and areas subject to natural hazards whenever possible. HS-P9.7 Prioritize implementation of safety projects that reduce the risk of hazardous materials transportation accidents along hazardous material transportation corridors in Impacted Communities to address high-risk scenarios. HS-P9.8 Require applicants for projects in Impacted Communities that involve hazardous materials or hazardous waste to provide clear information in plain language about potential hazards their projects pose to nearby residentscommunities at the beginning of the review process. Review and verify this information, make it available to residents, and encourage project applicants to host at least one community meeting to discuss potential hazards. HS-P9.9 DiscourageDeny applicationsentitlements for construction of new large-scale facilities that treat, store, or dispose of hazardous waste from off-site sources and negatively impact Impacted Communities. HS-P9.10 Prohibit new hazardous waste facilities in the following areas: (a) Watersheds of an existing or planned drinking water reservoir. (b) Ecologically significant resource areas. (c) Within 200 feet of an active or potentially active fault. (d) Within a 100-year floodplain. (e) Within a setback distance determined in accordance with DTSC guidance under SB 673, once final.* HS-P9.11 Require design and operation of new or expanded hazardous waste facilities to adhere to the following criteria, as well as the permitting criteria established by the DTSC for vulnerable communities and cumulative impacts pursuant to SB 673, once final: (a) Minimize risk to the surrounding area in the case of a hazardous waste accident or spill. (b) Ensure spills of waste will not reach the Bay, Delta, streams, creeks, reservoirs, or other bodies of water or environmentally sensitive resources by incorporating buffers as appropriate and/or using engineered structural design features (e.g., spill containment and monitoring devices). (c) Avoid known or suspected groundwater recharge areas or areas where residential uses rely on wells. If located in such areas, facilities must provide Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -51 properly engineered spill containment features, inspection measures, and other environmental protection controls. (d) In areas with unstable soils, such as steep slopes and areas subject to liquefaction or subsidence, ensure structural stability through engineered design features. (e) Use access roads leading to major transportation routes that: ● Do not traverse residential neighborhoods. ● Minimize, buffer, or employ physical barriers to residential frontages. ● Demonstrate road network safety through road design, construction, accident rates, and traffic flow. (f) Minimize noise impacts on the surrounding area.* HS-P9.12 Require hazardous waste facilities to prepare a cumulative risk assessment that analyzes, characterizes, and quantifies the combined risks to human health and the environment from the facility, in combination with other off-site hazardous materials risks. The assessment must consider risks in the absence of actions to control or mitigate a potential release and determine whether buffers or other mitigation is necessary to protect residential uses, immobile populations (e.g., schools, hospitals, behavioral health facilities, convalescent homes, and prisons), other places where people gather, environmentally sensitive resources, and other sensitive areas from adverse emissions or contamination. The assessment must also be guided by DTSC guidance for vulnerable communities and cumulative impacts pursuant to SB 673, once final. Require that project applicants fund the needed technical review for the assessment.* HS-P9.13 Include a condition in entitlements for new and expanded hazardous waste facilities that requires periodic (i.e., every one to three years) permit review to ensure ongoing compliance with conditions of approval. HS-P9.14 Encourage and facilitate establishment of adequate sites for collection of household hazardous waste (HHW), unused pharmaceuticals, and universal wastes, along with provisions for residents who are physically unable to deliver materials to a collection site. Actions HS-A9.1 Provide technical assistance to hazardous waste generators to encourage them to reduce their hazardous waste to the maximum extent feasible. HS-A9.2 Update the Oil Spill Contingency Plan to protect the Bay and Delta shoreline areas in the event of an oil or other hazardous materials spill. HS-A9.3 Provide information to county residents about less toxic alternatives to household products containing universal 9 -52 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element wastes and the safe handling, storage, and disposal of such products, including pharmaceuticals. Goal HS-10 Policies HS-P10.1 Coordinate with other agencies in efforts to remediate or treat contaminated surface water, groundwater, and soils in or affecting Impacted Communities. HS-P10.2 Require development of contaminated sites to comply with all clean-up plans, land use covenants, and deed restrictions imposed by the DTSC or Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB).* HS-P10.3 Require new, modified, or expanded industrial uses involving hazardous materials or wastes to provide sufficient funds, in the form of a cash deposit, surety bond, or other financial instrument acceptable to the County, to guarantee site remediation, including removal of facilities, equipment, and structures, and ensure community safety and site reusability. Actions HS-A10.1 Support public access to the inventory of contaminated sites published by the DTSC and SWRCB by posting links to this information on the County’s website. SEISMIC AND GEOLOGIC HAZARDS Contra Costa County is in a region of high seismicity. Underlying California are two tectonic plates, the Pacific Plate and North American Plate. Their primary boundary is the San Andreas Fault, which runs most of the length of the state. These plates move past each other at a rate of about two inches per year. Friction occasionally causes the plates to become stuck, resulting in stress and stored energy deep below Earth’s surface. When the plates inevitably break loose, the stored energy is suddenly released in the form of an earthquake. Several significant (i.e., stronger than magnitude 5.0) earthquakes have impacted the county, including the 1906 San Francisco earthquake (magnitude 7.8), 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake (magnitude 6.9), and 2014 South Napa earthquake (magnitude 6.0). Many smaller, active faults exist within the San Andreas Fault Zone. Faults are commonly considered “active” when they have ruptured the ground surface or otherwise produced evidence of seismic activity within the last 10,000 years, while “potentially active” faults are those formed during approximately the last 2 to 3 million years. There are five major active faults running through the county: ● Calaveras (North Central) Fault ● Concord-Green Valley Fault ● Greenville Fault Goal HS-10 Communities that are protected from the impacts of historical hazardous waste releases. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -53 ● Hayward Fault ● Mount Diablo Fault Movement on any of these faults or other fault lines in the region could cause earthquakes and fault rupture. The Hayward Fault is particularly concerning, as it runs beneath densely populated sections of Contra Costa and Alameda Counties. A significant earthquake on the Hayward Fault is predicted to result in catastrophic damage to buildings and infrastructure and substantial loss of life. The Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Act is a State law enacted in 1972 that limits development along active faults in areas known as “Alquist -Priolo Fault Zones.” The Alquist-Priolo Fault Zones are areas around active faults that are known to cause surface rupture, meaning that the surface of the ground is “pulled apart” during seismic activity. Structures within these zones are subject to specific building codes and regulations to ensure they can withstand the effects of earthquakes, as surface rupture can seriously damage buildings and other structures built on top of the f ault. Figure HS-17 shows active and potentially 9 -54 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-17 EARTHQUAKE HAZARDS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -55 active faults, Alquist-Priolo Fault Zones, and anticipated shaking levels based on State modeling data. Earthquakes have secondary effects as well. One of these is liquefaction, which occurs when sandy or silty soil materials become saturated during ground shaking, losing strength, causing the ground to liquefy. This can rupture pipelines, buckle roads and railroad tracks, and damage or destroy building foundations. Figure HS-18a shows the susceptibility of land to liquefaction. Areas along the Bay shoreline and in the Delta are most susceptible. As explained in the Flood Hazards and Sea-Level Rise section of this Element, earthquakes can also cause tsunami and seiche. Other geologic hazards are landslides and erosion, which can occur gradually and continuously or very suddenly, often with disastrous results. In Contra Costa County, landslides are usually triggered by heavy rain, so the potential for landslides largely coincides with severe storms that saturate steep, loose soils. Earthquakes can also trigger landslides, andwith upland areas in Contra Costa County arebeing highly susceptible to landslides, as shown in Figure HS-18b9. Erosion, or the geological process in which earthen materials are worn away and transported by natural forces like water or wind, causes the soil to deteriorate. Highly erosive soils can damage roads, bridges, buildings, and other structures. Liquefaction and landslide threats are addressed by the Seismic Hazards Zone (SHZ) Mapping Act of 1990, which closely resembles the Alquist-Priolo Act. The SHZ Act authorizes the California Geologic Survey to delineate seismic hazard zones (lands subject to lateral or vertical displacement under conditions of strong earthquake ground shaking) and provide guidelines and regulations for evaluating adverse conditions. Projects located in a SHZ, as shown on Figure HS-18, must conduct an investigation performed by a licensed geotechnical engineer or engineering geologist. When adverse conditions are confirmed present, effective mitigation must be provided to control/avoid the damage potential. Virtually all development applications that would lead to construction of buildings for human occupancy (i.e., rezonings, subdivisions, land use permits, development plans, building permits) are subject to the provisions of the SHZ Act. Goal HS-11 Communities and infrastructure that are protected from seismic and geologic hazards, including severe ground shaking, fault rupture, liquefaction, landslides, and unstable slopes. 9 -56 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Earthquakes can cause significant building damage, especially to buildings that do not meet modern seismic safety standards. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -57 FIGURE HS-18A LIQUEFACTION SUSCEPTIBILITY 9 -58 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-1918B LANDSLIDE HAZARDS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -59 Goal HS-11 Policies HS-P11.1 For projects in areas of known or suspected seismic or other geologic hazards, such as Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zones or Seismic Hazard Zones, (areas considered to be at risk of earthquake triggered liquefiable soils,liquefaction or landslides displacement), delineated by the California Geological Survey, andas well as any other areas of steep slopes, or areas of suspected ground failure known to the County, require submittal of aappropriately detailed engineering geologic or geotechnical reportinvestigations. and ensure effective mitigation measures are incorporated into the project designThe reports must be compliant with State Guidelines and include: (a) A map showing the outline of any geologic or potentially hazardous soil condition and areas subject to inundation. (b) Recommended means of mitigation of any adverse condition representing a hazard to improvements. (c) Recommendations to assure proper implementation of mitigation measures during construction.* HS-P11.2 Prohibit construction of buildings intended for human occupancy in areas where seismic and other geologic hazards (e.g., landslides, liquefaction, and fault lines) cannot be adequately mitigated.* HS-P11.3 Discourage construction of critical facilities and buildings intended for human occupancy in Alquist-Priolo Fault Zones. and encourage earthquake retrofitting Wwhere such development already exists, encourage earthquake retrofitting. If there is no feasible alternative to developing inside the Fault Zonesiting critical facilities and high- occupancy buildings intended for human occupancy in such hazard zonesthe Fault Zones, buildingsthe improvements buildings must be sited, designed, and constructed to withstand the anticipated seismic stresses.* HS-P11.4 Refer geotechnical and soilsengineering geologic reports to the County Peer Review Geologist for review and approval whenever necessaryevaluation of their adequacy, as required by State Law for projects in State- designated hazard zones. Reports deemed inadequate will require further engineering analysis and revision until the findings/opinions of the Peer Review Geologist have been addressed to the County’s satisfaction. HS-P11.5 Discourage development on slopes exceeding 15 percent, and prohibit development on slopes exceedingof 265 percent or greater, to avoid slope instability, extensiveunnecessary grading, and unnecessaryextensive land disturbance, and facilitate long-term control of erosion and sedimentation. Exceptions may be considered for infrastructure projects and development on existing legal lots where no other feasible building sites exist. 9 -60 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element HS-P11.6 NEW Require projects to form a Geologic Hazard Abatement District (GHAD) or join an existing GHAD whenever necessary to adequately mitigate anticipated or residual geologic hazards. HS-P11.6HS-P11.7 Do not accept public road dedications or allow construction of private roads on unstable hillsides or in landslide hazard areas unless potential hazards have been mitigated to the County’s satisfaction. All private roads constructed in such areas must be fully compliant with private road standards adopted by the County and local fire protection district with jurisdiction.* See the Land Use Element for additional policies and actions related to development in hazard areas. EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS, RESPONSE, AND EVACUATION ROUTES Preparedness, Response, and Recovery Contra Costa County is committed to preservation of life, property, and the environment during emergencies. The County implements its Local Hazard Mitigation Plan, which assesses risks from natural and human-caused hazards, including risks to people and facilities, and identifies mitigation actions to reduce or eliminate hazard risks. The current Local Hazard Mitigation Plan, certified by FEMA, is incorporated into this Health and Safety Element by reference, as permitted by California Government Code Section 65302.6.Collaborating with local agencies, including 16 incorporated cities and towns and 25 special districts in the Contra Costa County planning area, The County prepared the most recent Multi-Jurisdictional Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) in accordance with the federal Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 and the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) LHMP policy guidance. The County collaborated with local agencies, including 16 incorporated cities and towns and 25 special districts in the Contra Costa County planning area, to prepare the LHMP. Contra Costa County’s LHMP incorporates a process is one where hazards are identified and profiled, the people and facilities at risk are analyzed, and mitigation actions are developed to reduce or eliminate hazard risk. Implementation of these mitigation actions, which include short- and long-term strategies, involves planning, policy changes, programs, projects, and other activities. Local governments are required to develop a hazard mitigation plan as a condition for receiving certain types of non-emergency disaster assistance. The LHMP and Health and Safety Element address similar issues, but the Health and Safety Element provides a higher-level framework and set of policies that pertain to the long-term safety of the county, while the LHMP focuses on more specific mitigation actions to enable jurisdictions to better protect lives, property, and natural systems. The LHMP, certified by FEMA, is incorporated into the Health and Safety Element by reference, as permitted by California Government Code Section 65302.6, and can be accessed at www.contracosta.ca.gov/4732/General-Plan. Multiple agencies within the county, along with State and federal agencies, are involved with emergency preparedness and response. The County has adopted the State of California Emergency Plan issued by the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (CAL OES). The State Plan outlines ways to prepare for and respond to various disasters, such as earthquakes, floods, and fires, and specifies which State-level department will be responsible for recovery efforts. Contra Costa County also participates in the California Disaster and Civil Defense Master Mutual-Aid Agreement, under which the State and local governments will work together to respond to emergencies. CAL OES Coastal Region (Mutual Aid Region II) serves the counties on the Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -61 coast from Del Norte to Monterey and the counties surrounding San Francisco Bay. The County has its own Emergency Operations Plan developed by the Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services in collaboration with emergency management partners (fire districts, law enforcement agencies, etc.), and has prepared additional plans addressing earthquake response, disaster debris management, and airport emergencies. The County also maintains the Emergency Operations Center, which is activated as needed to communicate with emergency management partners and coordinate responses to incidents. In addition, the County and many of the incorporated cities offer Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training to help residents be prepared for disasters. The intent of these plans and actions is to proactively safeguard life, property, and the environment, f acilitate effective emergency response, and accelerate recovery when disasters happen. The County’s Emergency Operations Center monitors hazardous events as they unfold and coordinates the response. Goal HS-12 Policies HS-P12.1 Continue implementing the Contra Costa County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan, which was adopted by the Board of Supervisors and certified by FEMA and is incorporated by reference into this Health and Safety Element. HS-P12.2 Locate facilities and uses on the County’s designated critical facilities list outside of identified hazard areas whenever possible, accounting for how climate change may increase frequency and intensity of hazards. If critical facilities must be in hazard areas, ensure these facilities and their access routes are protected from the hazard risks inherent to each location.* Goal HS-12 Communities and local economies that continue to function during all hazards and have coordinated and effective response and recovery procedures. 9 -62 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element HS-P12.3 Coordinate with cities, school districts, recreation and park districts, and community-based organizations to ensure adequate emergency shelters, community resilience centers, and alternate care sites are available when natural disasters and other highly hazardous conditions, such as industrial accidents, occur. HS-P12.4 Ensure there are adequate identified locations for alternate care sites, especially in Impacted Communities. HS-P12.5 Ensure the designs for new and significantly renovated community-oriented County facilities allow for flexible uses and support multiple community purposes, including being used as community resilience centers. HS-P12.6 Support residents’ ability to safely shelter-in-place, with appropriate air exchange rates and protection from contaminants. Actions HS-A12.1 Update the Contra Costa County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan as necessary to remain compliant with State and federal laws and reflect changing climate conditions. HS-A12.2 Incorporate the assessments and projections for future emergency service needs from the most recent Municipal Services Reviews into updates of the Contra Costa County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan. HS-A12.3 At least once every eight years, evaluate the effectiveness of and update the public safety, preparedness, and hazard mitigation policies in this Health and Safety Element, with consideration given to changing climate conditions. HS-A12.4 Identify and, as feasible, retrofit critical County-owned buildings and facilities in areas prone to flooding (including sea-level rise and emergent flooding), seismic hazards, landslides and debris flows, tsunamis, or wildfires to maximize defensible space and outdoor fireproofing, improve drainage systems, stabilize nearby slopes, and take other actions as appropriate to minimize the hazard. HS-A12.5 Identify and map existing community facilities, such as libraries, gymnasiums, community centers, and auditoriums, that can serve as community resilience centers and support people with access and functional needs during hazard events. Work with the owners of these facilities to identify and implement upgrades, prioritizing facilities in Impacted Communities. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -63 HS-A12.6 Establish standardized triggers (temperature, air quality, etc.) for opening County-operated community resilience centers. HS-A12.7 Conduct a comprehensive energy resilience needs assessment for critical County facilities and pursue funding opportunities to meet identified needs. HS-A12.8 Install backup power and water resources at critical County facilities, emergency shelters, community resilience centers, and cooling centers.* HS-A12.9 Coordinate with transit providers to identify and advertise ways for individuals with restricted mobility to reach resilience centers, cooling centers, and alternate care sites. HS-A12.10 Partner with community-based organizations, homeowners associations, and neighborhood groups to communicate with community members about human-caused, natural, and climate change-induced hazards, how to prepare for them, and what to do when a shelter-in-place or evacuation order is issued. Make this information widely available in various formats and languages to all community members, with special effort aimed at reaching unsheltered people and people with special access and functional needs. HS-A12.11 Continue to provide alerts about developing and ongoing emergency situations in languages and formats appropriate to affected county residents through the Joint Information Center. HS-A12.12 Continue providing CERT training programs and encourage the Contra Costa CERT Coalition to provide updated training on hazards and related risks identified in the Contra Costa County Vulnerability Assessment or the best-available climate science data. Evacuation Routes and Plans With advanced warning, evacuation can be effective in reducing injury and loss of life during a catastrophic event. Figure HS-19 shows the evacuation routes throughout the county, which include highways and major surface streets. Preferred evacuation routes during any individual evacuation order will depend on the characteristics of the emergency. Contra Costa County has identified evacuation zones to support efficient communication with community members regarding evacuation warnings and orders. Some parts of the county face evacuation constraints, particularly those far from major roadways. Some areas have only one viable evacuation route, which could be disastrous if it becomes blocked or congested. State law requires counties to identify evacuation constraints in hazard-prone residential areas. Figure HS-20 maps residential parcels with evacuation constraints. All areas identified are more than a half-mile from a major roadway and/or have access to only one emergency evacuation route. In 9 -64 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element most cases it is not feasible to retrofit existing neighborhoods to eliminate physical evacuation constraints such as lack of evacuation routes or Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -65 FIGURE HS-1920 EVACUATION ROUTES 9 -66 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-2120 SINGLE-ACCESS ROAD RESIDENTIAL AREAS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -67 insufficient roadway capacity. The County will nonetheless strive to improve peoples’ ability to evacuate from these constrained areas. Goal HS-13 Policies HS-P13.1 Except for infill sites, require new development in High and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones, the WUI, and 100- year or 200-year floodplains to have access to at least two emergency evacuation routes, and encourage the same for existing development.* HS-P13.2 Coordinate with transit agencies and community service and faith-based organizations to assist with evacuation efforts and ensure that evacuation services are made available to vulnerable people, including those with limited English proficiency or limited access to transportation, communication, and other lifeline resources and services. Actions HS-A13.1 Partner with cities and public protection agencies to delineate evacuation routes, identifying their capacity, safety, and viability under different hazard scenarios, as well as emergency vehicle routes for disaster response, and where possible, alternate routes where congestion or road failure might reasonably be expected to occur. Update as new information and technologies become available. HS-A13.2 At least once every five years, update maps identifying neighborhoods with only one emergency evacuation route.* HS-A13.3 Coordinate with local fire districts to develop and maintain minimum roadway, ingress, and egress standards for evacuation of residential areas in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones.* HS-A13.4 Develop an evacuation education program to help inform community members about the Contra Costa County Community Warning System and recommended approaches to evacuation. See the Public Facilities and Services Element for policies and actions related to emergency medical services. Goal HS-13 Effective evacuation capacity and capabilities throughout the county in response to emergencies and major hazards of concern. 9 -68 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element NOISE AND VIBRATION Sounds are disturbances created by a vibrating object, transmitted by pressure waves, that are capable of being detected by a human ear or microphone. Noise includes sounds that are unpleasant or unwanted. Like noise, vibration is transmitted in waves, but through the earth or solid objects. Unlike noise, vibration is typically felt rather than heard. Vibration can be natural, such as from earthquakes or landslides, or human -caused, such as from machinery or trains. Noise and vibration can significantly impact peoples’ lives. Depending on their source and intensity, noise and vibration can be painful, interrupt sleep, cause distraction or confusion, and physically damage the inner ear. Physical damage to human hearing begins at prolonged exposure to noise levels higher than 85 dBA (i.e., the A-weighted sound level, which correlates to how the human ear perceives sound). Exposure to high noise levels affects our entire system, with prolonged noise exposure in excess of 75 dBA increasing body tensions, thereby affecting blood pressure, functions of the heart, and the nervous system. Extended periods of noise exposure above 90 dBA can result in permanent hearing damage. When the noise level reaches 120 dBA, even short-term exposure causes a tickling sensation in the ear, called the threshold of feeling. As the sound reaches 140 dBA, the tickling sensation becomes painful, called the threshold of pain. Table HS -2 shows typical noise levels from familiar noise sources. Some types of noise and vibration, such as from construction and maintenance activities, are temporary. While these types of noise and vibration can be long-term, they will end with completion of the activity. Other types of noise and vibration are permanent, including from mobile sources such as cars, trains, and planes, and stationary sources, like continual noise from machinery at an industrial site. These sources require the County to ensure that certain land uses, especially "sensitive receptors" like homes and schools, are not brought too close to the permanent source of noise and vibration without incorporating reduction measures like thicker walls and windows. TABLE HS-2 TYPICAL A-WEIGHTED SOUND LEVELS Noise Source A-Weighted Sound Level in Decibels Noise Environment Near Jet Engine 140 Deafening Civil Defense Siren 130 Threshold of pain Hard Rock Band 120 Threshold of feeling Accelerating Motorcycle at a Few Feet Away 110 Very loud Pile Driver; Noisy Urban Street/Heavy City Traffic 100 Very loud Ambulance Siren; Food Blender 95 Very loud Garbage Disposal 90 Very loud Freight Cars; Living Room Music 85 Loud Pneumatic Drill; Vacuum Cleaner 80 Loud Busy Restaurant 75 Moderately loud Near Freeway Auto Traffic 70 Moderately loud Average Office 60 Moderate Suburban Street 55 Moderate Light Traffic; Soft Radio Music in Apartment 50 Quiet Large Transformer 45 Quiet Average Residence Without Stereo Playing 40 Faint Soft Whisper 30 Faint Rustling Leaves 20 Very faint Human Breathing 10 Very faint State law requires general plans to use the Community Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL) or the Day/Night Average Sound Level (DNL) to describe the community noise environment (in decibels, "dB") and its effects on the population. Contra Costa County land use compatibility standards for noise are shown in Table HS-3, and the future 2045 roadway noise conditions are depicted graphically on Figure HS-21. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -69 TABLE HS-3 MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE NOISE EXPOSURE BY LAND USE Land Use Type Noise Level, DNL (dB) 0-55 56- 60 61- 65 66- 70 71- 75 75- 80 >81 Residential a, b Urban Residential Infill Hotels, Motels Schools, Libraries, Hospitals, ChurchesReligious Institutions, Hospitals, Extended Care Facilities Auditoriums, Concert Halls, Amphitheaters Sports Arenas, Outdoor Spectator Sports Playgrounds, NeighborhoodLocal Parks Golf Courses, Riding Stables, Water Recreation (e.g., water parks), Cemeteries Office Buildings, Business Commercial, and Professional Buildings (i.e., uses that are generally indoors and not noise sensitive) Mining, Industrial, Manufacturing, Mining, Utilities, Agriculture Normally Acceptable. Specified land use is satisfactory based on the assumption that any buildings involved are of normal, conventional construction, without any special noise insulation requirements. Conditionally Acceptable. New construction or development should be undertaken only after a detailed analysis of the noise-reduction requirements is made and needed noise insulation features have been included in the design. Unacceptable. New construction or development should not be undertaken. a A DNL of 60 dB or less may not be achievable in all residential areas due to environmental, economic, or aesthetic constraints. One example is small balconies associated with multiple-family housing. In this case, second- and third-story balconies may be difficult to control to the standard. A common outdoor use area that meets the goal can be provided as an alternative. b If the primary noise source is passing trains, the standard for outdoor noise levels in residential areas is a DNL of 70 dB. Goal HS-14 Policies HS-P14.1 Require projects that would locate noise-sensitive land uses in areas where the projected ambient noise level is greater than the “normally acceptable” noise level indicated in Table HS-3 to provide an acoustical analysis that recommends appropriate mitigation to meet the noise compatibility standards.* HS-P14.2 Require new housing developments, hotels, and motels exposed to a DNL of 60 dB or greater to provide a detailed acoustical analysis describing how the project will provide an interior DNL of 45 dB or less.* HS-P14.3 Require new nonresidential uses exposed to a DNL of 65 dB or greater to provide a detailed acoustical analysis describing how the project will provide an interior sound level of 50 Leq (1-hr).* Goal HS-14 An acceptable noise environment in all areas of the county. 70 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element FIGURE HS-2221 2045 ROADWAY NOISE CONTOURS Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element 9 -71 HS-P14.4 Require new residential development in areas exposed to a DNL in excess of 65 dB due to single events, such as train operation, to provide an acoustical analysis describing how indoor noise levels from these single events will not exceed a maximum A-weighted noise level of 35 dB in bedrooms and 55 dB in other habitable rooms. In areas exposed to a DNL in excess of 65 dB, use an indoor residential noise-level threshold of 45 dB CNEL.* HS-P14.5 Protect noise-sensitive land uses listed in Table HS-3 from adverse noise impacts by requiring mitigation to the degree feasible for projects that would increase long-term noise in excess of the following thresholds, when measured at the sensitive use’s property line: (a) Greater than 1.5 dBA DNL increase for ambient noise environments of 65 dBA DNL and higher. (b) Greater than 3 dBA DNL increase for ambient noise environments of 60 to 64 DNL. (c) Greater than 5 dBA DNL increase for ambient noise environments of less than 60 dBA DNL.* HS-P14.6 Design County projects to minimize long-term noise impacts on existing residents and follow best practices to minimize short-term impacts from construction noise.* HS-P14.7 Condition entitlements to limit noise-generating construction activities to the following: (a) Weekdays and non-holidays unless site-specific conditions warrant exceptions. (b) Within 1,000 feet of noise-sensitive uses: 7:308:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (c) Over 1,000 feet from noise-sensitive uses: 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.* HS-P14.8 Require a traffic noise analysis for development projects where the project would generate more than 40 percent of daily trips over existing average daily traffic (ADT) on impacted roadway segments. Projects below this threshold are assumed to have no significant traffic noise impact because they would increase noise levels by less than 1.5 dBA DNL, which is the most restrictive threshold for determining a significant traffic noise impact. This screening policy does not apply to projects involving a substantial number of new operational truck trips (e.g., warehouses).* HS-P14.9 Require effective measures along major transportation facilities/corridors to reduce impacts on adjacent noise- sensitive land uses.* HS-P14.10 Require new development to evaluate noise impacts on the natural environment, including impacts on wildlife, whenever appropriate. 9 -72 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element HS-P14.11 When reviewing proposals for new vibration-sensitive uses near an existing railroad or Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) line, use Table HS-4 to evaluate whether the sensitive uses could be exposed to excessive groundborne vibration. Projects with sensitive uses within the screening distances identified in the table will require preparation of a groundborne vibration and noise evaluation that is consistent with Federal Transit Administration-approved methodologies. TABLE HS-4: RAIL VIBRATION SCREENING DISTANCES Type of Rail Distance in Feet Land Use Category 1 Land Use Category 2 Land Use Category 3 Conventional Commuter Rail or Rapid Transit (BART) 600 200 120 Notes: Land Use Category 1: Vibration-sensitive research and manufacturing, hospitals with vibration- sensitive equipment, universities conducting vibration-sensitive research, concert halls, TV and recording studios, and theaters. Land Use Category 2: Residential, hotels/motels, and hospitals without vibration-sensitive equipment. Land Use Category 3: Institutional uses such as schools, churches, and medical offices without vibration-sensitive equipment. Actions HS-A14.1 Study the feasibility of adopting a noise ordinance establishing maximum exterior noise levels at sensitive receptors for noise generated by permanent and temporary stationary, non-transportation sources and construction sources. HS-A14.2 Pursue federal Quiet Zone status for rail crossings that are a noise nuisance to nearby residential areas and other noise-sensitive land uses. HEALTH AND SAFETY ELEMENT PERFORMANCE MEASURES To track progress in achieving the major goals of this Element, every five years, the County will collect data to assess its performance against the following measures. Progress will be tracked relative to the prior performance review and the baseline year of 2024. Based on the findings from the five-year review, the County may adjust policies, actions, or the approach to implementing them to improve performance, as needed. ● Reduced rate of emergency department visits for asthma. ● Increased tree canopy on public property in Impacted Communities. ● Increased number of County facilities in hazard-prone areas that are retrofitted against hazards. ● Reduced number of people in hazard-prone areas that are constrained by having only one evacuation route. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix B-1 B. HEALTH AND SAFETY ELEMENT TECHNICAL APPENDIX This is a technical appendix to the Health and Safety Element (Element), a State-mandated General Plan Element that must identify and plan for potential natural and human-created hazards that could affect Contra Costa County’s residents, businesses, and services. This appendix provides additional technical details to augment the background information provided in the Health and Safety Element of the Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan. Figure references in this appendix are to the figures in the Health and Safety Element. The Health and Safety Element contains the bulk of the General Plan’s goals, policies, and actions to minimize hazardous situations and protect and improve public health in and around the county. Combined with the additional details provided in this technical appendix, it identifies the natural and human-caused hazards that affect existing and future development, describes present and expected future conditions, and sets policies and standards for improved public safety, including efforts to minimize harm t o people, buildings, and infrastructure and reduce damage to local economic systems, community services, and ecosystems. Some degree of risk is inevitable because the potential for many disasters cannot be eliminated completely, and the ability to predict such disasters is limited. However, the Health and Safety Element aims to reduce this risk by: ● Developing a framework for considering safety issues in the land use planning process. ● Facilitating identification and mitigation of hazards for new development and strengthening existing codes, project review, and permitting processes. ● Presenting policies directed at identifying and reducing hazards in existing development. ● Strengthening preparedness planning and post-disaster reconstruction policies for earthquakes, floods, dam inundation, wildfires, and other hazards. ● Identifying how natural and climate-related hazards are likely to increase in frequency and intensity in the future and providing policies to increase community resilience through preparedness and adaptation. The Health and Safety Element addresses the topic of public health and safety following State requirements in Section 65302(g) of the California Government Code. State law requires that the Health and Safety Element contain background information and policies to address multiple natural hazards, analyze the vulnerabilities from climate change and establish policies to improve climate change resilience, and assess residential areas with evacuation constraints. The public safety issues in Contra Costa County include emergency preparedness and response, flood and inundation hazards, seismic and geologic hazards, fire hazards, hazardous waste and materials, and other climate-related hazards. The Health and Safety Element identifies goals, policies, and actions for each of these hazards. B-2 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER DOCUMENTS The Health and Safety Element does not exist in a vacuum but is instead one of several plans that address community public safety and related topics. These other plans include the Contra Costa County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP), Contra Costa County Emergency Operations Plan (EOP), and Contra Costa Countywide Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP). The Health and Safety Element should be consistent with these other plans to ensure that the County has a unified strategy to address public safety issues. The Health and Safety Element incorporates information, technical analyses, and policies from these other documents where appropriate to help support this consistency. The other Elements in the General Plan also provide policy guidance on related topics. The Health and Safety Element is consistent with and complementary to the other General Plan Elements. Contra Costa County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan In collaboration with local agencies and special districts, Contra Costa County prepared the most recent LHMP in accordance with the federal Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 and the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) LHMP guidance. Contra Costa County’s LHMP is a plan that assesses hazard vulnerabilities from natural and human -caused hazards, including risk to people and facilities, and identifies mitigation actions to reduce or eliminate hazard risks in the county, including in incorporated cities . Local governments are required to develop a hazard mitigation plan as a condition for receiving certain types of non-emergency disaster assistance. The LHMP and Health and Safety Element address similar issues, but the Health and Safety Element provides a higher-level framework and set of policies that pertain to the safety of the county, while the LHMP focuses on more specific mitigation actions, which are often short term, to enable jurisdictions to better protect lives, property, and natural systems. The current LHMP, certified by FEMA, is incorporated into the Health and Safety Element by reference, as permitted by California Government Code Section 65302.6. Collaborating with local agencies, including 16 incorporated cities and towns and 25 special districts in the Contra Costa County planning area, the County prepared the most recent Multi-Jurisdictional Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) in accordance with the federal Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 and the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) LHMP policy guidance. Contra Costa County’s LHMP incorporates a process where hazards are identified and profiled, the people and facilities at risk are analyzed, and mitigation actions are developed to reduce or eliminate hazard risk. Implementation of these mitigation actions, which include short - and long-term strategies, involves planning, policy changes, programs, projects, and other activities. Local governments are required to develop a hazard mitigation plan as a condition for receiving certain types of non- emergency disaster assistance. The LHMP and Health and Safety Element address similar issues, but the Health and Safety Element provides a higher-level framework and set of policies that pertain to the long-term safety of the county, while the LHMP focuses on more specific mitigation actions to enable jurisdictions to better protect lives, property, and natural systems. The LHMP, certified by FEMA, is incorporated into the Health and Safety Element by reference, as permitted by California Government Code Section 65302.6, and can be accessed at www.contracosta.ca.gov/4732/General-Plan. The County prepared the most recent Multi-Jurisdictional Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) in accordance with the federal Disaster Mitigation Act Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix B-3 of 2000 and the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) LHMP policy guidance. The County collaborated with local agencies, including 16 incorporated cities and towns and 25 special districts in the Contra Costa County planning area, to prepare the LHMP. Contra Costa County’s LHMP process is one where hazards are identified and profiled, the people and facilities at risk are analyzed, and mitigation actions are developed to reduce or eliminate hazard risk. Implementation of these mitigation actions, whi ch include short- and long-term strategies, involves planning, policy changes, programs, projects, and other activities. Local governments are required to develop a hazard mitigation plan as a condition for receiving certain types of non-emergency disaster assistance. The LHMP and Health and Safety Element address similar issues, but the Health and Safety Element provides a higher-level framework and set of policies that pertain to the long-term safety of the county, while the LHMP focuses on more specific mitigation actions to enable jurisdictions to better protect lives, property, and natural systems. The LHMP, certified by FEMA, is incorporated into the Health and Safety Element by reference, as permitted by California Government Code Section 65302.6, and can be accessed at www.contracosta.ca.gov/4732/General-Plan. Contra Costa County Emergency Operations Plan The EOP describes the planned response to extraordinary emergency situations associated with natural disasters, technological (human -caused) emergencies, and war emergency operations in or affecting Contra Costa County. The EOP establishes an emergency management organization that will respond to any significant emergency or disaster affecting the county. The EOP is also the principal guide for the County and special districts who respond to and mitigate emergencies and disasters in the county. It is intended to facilitate multi-agency and multi-jurisdictional emergency operations and coordination, particularly between local governments in the operational area (i.e., county boundary), and addresses State and federal response upon request. B-4 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix Contra Costa Countywide Community Wildfire Protection Plan In collaboration with the Contra Costa County Fire Chiefs Association, Hills Emergency Forum, and stakeholder committee members, the Diablo Fire Safe Council prepared and published the 2019 Contra Costa CWPP. The goal of the plan is to reduce hazards through increased information and education about wildfires, hazardous fuels reduction, actions to reduce structure ignitability, and other recommendations to assist emergency preparedness and fire-suppression efforts. The Contra Costa CWPP complements local agreements and existing plans for wildfire protection for a coordinated effort in determining appropriate fire management actions. CLIMATE CHANGE VULNERABILITY Changes to the global climate system are expected to affect future occurrences of natural hazards in and around Contra Costa County. Many hazards are projected to become more frequent and intense in coming years and decades, and in some cases, these trends have already begun. Key climate change considerations that affect Contra Costa County include increasing temperatures, changes in precipitation, and sea-level rise. Overall, precipitation levels are expected to increase slightly; however, there are likely to be more years of extreme precipitation events and droughts that last 1 Bedsworth, Louise, Dan Cayan, Guido Franco, Leah Fisher, Sonya Ziaja (California Governor’s Office of Planning and Research, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, California Energy Commission, California Public Utilities Commission). 2018. Statewide Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Publication number: SUMCCCA4-2018-013. 2 Ocean Protection Council. 2018. State of California Sea-Level Rise Guidance, longer and are more severe. According to California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment,1 Contra Costa County can expect to experience the following climate-related hazard events: ● Sea-level rise is a gradual process, taking place over years or decades. Along the Contra Costa County shoreline, sea levels are projected to rise approximately 24 inches by 2050 and 84 inches by 2100.2 However, it is possible that sea levels could rise faster than these projections.3 Rising sea levels can also cause the shoreline to flood more frequently and severely during storms or king tide events. Because ocean levels are higher during normal conditions due to sea-level rise, shoreline floods can reach further onto land. ● Although Contra Costa County is likely to experience only a slight increase in overall annual precipitation levels from climate change, rainfall is expected to fall in fewer, more extreme precipitation events. Climate change is expected to also increase the frequency and severity of droughts that cause soil to dry out and condense. When precipitation does return, more water will run off the dry ground instead of being https://opc.ca.gov/webmaster/ftp/pdf/agenda_items/20180314/Item3_Ex hibit-A_OPC_SLR_Guidance-rd3.pdf. 3 California Coastal Commission. 2018. California Coastal Commission Sea Level Rise Policy Guidance: Science Update – July 2018. https://documents.coastal.ca.gov/assets/slr/guidance/2018/3_Ch3_2018A doptedSLRGuidanceUpdate.pdf. What is vulnerability? Vulnerability is the degree to which natural, built, and human systems are susceptible to harm from exposure to stresses associated with environmental and social change and from the absence of a capacity to adapt. Source: California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services. 2020. California Adaptation Planning Guide. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix B-5 absorbed, potentially leading to more frequent flooding. Drought conditions will strain the water supplies derived from the Mokelumne River watershed and the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, causing water shortage contingency plans and demand reduction actions to go into effect more frequently. ● Severe weather events, such as lightning, hail, heavy rainfall, and high winds, may become more frequent and intense. Heavy rainfall may also contribute to an increased risk of landslides in the hills of Contra Costa County. Although the connection between climate change and severe weather is not as well established as it is for other hazards, severe winds such as the Diablo winds, which tend to be most frequent during the fall and winter months, may coincide more frequently with wildfire conditions. ● Warmer temperatures are projected to cause an increase in extreme heat events. An extreme heat day is defined in Contra Costa County as a day when the high temperature is on average at least 96.6°F, although it varies by specific location. Extreme heat days are expected to rise from a historical annual average of 4 days per year to 20 days per year by the middle of the century (2035 to 2064) and to an average of 37 days per year by the end of the century (2070 to 2099). In addition to the increases in extreme heat events, Contra Costa County is expected to see an increase in warmer nights, which are defined in Contra Costa County as nights when the minimum temperatures stay above 63.2°F. The number of warm nights is expected to rise from a historical annual average of 5 nights per year to 36 nights per year by the middle of the century (2035 to 2064) and to an average of 88 nights per year by the end of the century (2070 to 2099). ● Wildfire risk in Contra Costa County is increasing, and hotter, drier weather resulting from climate change is expected to increase wildfires in the surrounding area and across the county. Continued dry conditions with above-normal temperatures through spring will leave fuel moisture levels lower than normal, increasing the potential for wildfire activity and an extended wildfire season. Across the region, more frequent and intense wildfires may also create poor air quality for Contra Costa County due to smoke. ● Climate change can increase the rates of infection for various diseases because many of the animals that carry diseases are more active during warmer weather. For example, mosquitos are more active during warmer and rainier conditions, and therefore can more easily spread diseases such as West Nile virus and Zika virus. Warmer temperatures earlier in the spring and later in the winter can cause these animals to be active for longer periods, increasing the time that these diseases can be transmitted. ● Due to its location along the Bay and Delta shorelines, floodplains, wildfire prone areas, and steep topography, Contra Costa County is in an area that can experience multiple, simultaneous natural hazards. These can also be called compounding hazards or cascading hazards. Compounding hazards could include a flood event that is followed by an earthquake, which are unrelated events that could compound to increase liquefaction in soils near floodplains or shorelines. Cascading hazards, on the other hand, occur one after the other. For example, an increase in extreme heat events and drought can dry out forests, leading to more fuel for wildfires, which can lead to faster moving and higher burning wildfires. The burn scar of a wildfire could then experience heavy rainfall, which could lead to landslides or debris flows. These hazards are discussed separately above, but when combined, B-6 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix they can cause more devastating consequences for county residents, visitors, and businesses. Vulnerability Assessment Under California law, the Health and Safety Element is required to include a vulnerability assessment that looks at how people, buildings, infrastructure, and other key community assets may be affected by climate change. The County conducted a Vulnerability Assessment to analyze its susceptibility to hazards, including those related to climate change, in accordance with the most recent available guidance in the California Adaptation Planning Guide published by the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (OES). The Vulnerability Assessment looks at how 13 different hazards —agricultural pests and diseases, air quality, coastal flooding, drought, extreme heat, human health hazards, flooding, fog, landslides, sea-level rise, seismic hazards, severe storms, and wildfire—may affect 64 different population groups and community assets. Each population or asset received a score of V1 (minimal vulnerability) to V5 (severe vulnerability) for each hazard. Overall, populations in Contra Costa County tend to be most vulnerable to inland flooding, extreme heat and warm nights, wildfire and smoke, and human health hazards, which directly affect health outcomes. Climate change could affect the transportation net work and associated economic activity by creating strain on transportation infrastructure, resulting in impacts to personal travel behavior and goods movement. Transportation infrastructure such as roadways, bridges, and railways are all potentially at increased risk due to inland and shoreline flooding, landslides, and severe weather events. Disruption of transportation infrastructure could significantly limit the movement of goods and services, economic vitality of the community, ability to evacuate during an emergency, and livelihood of many businesses. Countywide, energy delivery is also vulnerable to multiple hazards, including severe weather, such as high winds that can trigger public safety power shutoff (PSPS) events, extreme heat that reduces capacity and strains the system, and wildfires that damage the system, ultimately disrupting energy service. In particular, extreme heat can cause mechanical failure of grid equipment and heat damage to power lines, while also creating a high demand for electricity to power air conditioners, all of which places stress on the network and can lead to rolling blackouts. Climate change is also expected to affect parts of the county that are considered prone to both inland and shoreline flooding, mainly because of sea-level rise and stronger storm systems. As a result, agricultural land, homes, and businesses throughout the county will likely experience an increase in the frequency and magnitude of inland and shoreline flood events in future years. Ecosystems throughtout the county will likely shift and change due to rising temperatures and changes in precipitation patterns. Extreme temperatures and drought conditions can weaken woodlands and forests in the county, causing wildfires to spark more easily. Frequent wildfires in these ecosystems can cause specific composition to change as more fire-adapted species outcompete other species. Sea-level rise may cause a simlar phenonmenon in marshland habitat along the shorelines of the county. As sea levels rise, marshland habitat will likely be slowly inundated by elevated high tide levels, causing marshes to shift to mudflat habitat types. PUBLIC SAFETY ISSUES Among other topics, the Health and Safety Element addresses: ● Air quality Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix B-7 ● Flood and inundation hazards (also addressed in the Public Facilities and Services Element) ● Fire hazards (also addressed in the Public Facilities and Services Element) ● Hazardous materials and waste ● Seismic and geologic hazards ● Emergency preparedness and response ● Agriculture and ecosystem hazards (also addressed in the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element) ● Additional climate-related hazards such as drought, extreme heat, and severe weather (also addressed in the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element and Public Facilities and Services Element) This section provides details pertaining to probable locations each hazard or issue is likely to occur (per availability of data), past notable events in and around Contra Costa County, agencies responsible for providing protection from these public safety issues, and other background information required by California Government Code Section 65302(g)(4). Goals, policies, and actions related to these hazards are provided in the Health and Safety Element. The results of the Vulnerability Assessment are integrated into the discussions of hazards and other public safety issues. Air Quality Healthy air quality can be defined as the degree to which ambient air is pollution free. Although air pollution has been regulated for decades, California still has some of the worst air in the country. Air pollution can cause many serious health effects. A significant pollutant of concern in Contra Costa County is diesel particulate matter (DPM), a toxic air contaminant (TAC). TACs are air pollutants that can cause serious health effects from exposure at extremely low levels —a safe level of exposure may not even exist. DPM is particulate matter from diesel- fueled engines, such as those in on-road vehicles like diesel trucks, off-road construction vehicles, diesel electrical generators, and various pieces of stationary construction equipment. People exposed to DPM at sufficient concentrations and durations may have an increased chance of getting cancer or experiencing other serious health effects, including damage to the immune system and neurological, reproductive (e.g., reduced fertility), developmental, respiratory, and other health problems. Almost all diesel exhaust particles are 10 microns or less in diameter. Because of their extremely small size, these particles can be inhaled and eventually trapped in the bronchial and alveolar regions of the lungs. Long-term (chronic) inhalation of DPM is likely a lung cancer risk. Short-term (i.e., acute) exposure can cause irritation and inflammatory responses and may exacerbate existing allergies and asthma. As illustrated in Figure HS-1, air pollution impacts from exposure to elevated concentrations of DPM is greatest in North Richmond, Montalvin Manor, Bayview, Tara Hills, Rollingwood, East Richmond Heights, El Sobrante, Rodeo, Crockett, Mountain View, Vine Hill, Pacheco, Baypoint, Contra Costa Centre, Saranap, Parkmead, and Castle Hill. In western and central Contra Costa County where these communities are located, major sources of DPM include I-80, SR-4, and I-680; the Richmond Parkway, which is a truck tra ffic thoroughfare; a bulk cargo port on Richmond Harbor; the Burlington Northern Santa Fe rail yard in Richmond; and petrochemical and other industrial complexes, many of which are near the Port of Richmond on B-8 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix Richmond Harbor. There are also several facilities emitting DPM along the northern waterfront areas of the county, including along the San Pablo Bay shoreline adjacent to Rodeo and the Suisun Bay shoreline adjacent to Vine Hill, Clyde, and Bay Point. Air quality is a function of both the rate and location of pollutant emissions under the influence of meteorological conditions and topographic features. Atmospheric conditions such as wind speed, wind direction, and air temperature inversions interact with the physical features of the landscape to determine the movement and dispersal of air pollutant emissions and, consequently, their effect on air quality. Regardless, the impacts to local air quality from DPM will vary over time based on changes to the location and operation of emission sources as well as their overall contribution to emissions. As traffic increases in these areas, particularly along I-80, SR-4, I-680, and the Richmond Parkway, diesel emissions will increase. Operational increases in diesel-fueled engines, such as those in railyards and other industrial complexes, will also contribute to a greater concentration of DPM. Consequently, increases in DPM concentrations will lead to a greater health risk for communities exposed to these emission s. Those most vulnerable from exposure to elevated concentrations of DPM include individuals with existing health conditions, children, and elderly populations. Flood and Inundation Hazards Flood and inundation hazards are addressed in the Public Facilities and Services Element, in addition to the Health and Safety Element. Floods are among the costliest natural disasters in terms of human hardship and economic loss nationwide, significantly threatening the health and life of community members and causing substantial damage to structures, landscapes, and utilities. Flooding can be extremely dangerous—even six inches of moving water with a strong current can sweep a person off their feet. Floodwaters can transport large objects downstream that can damage or even dislodge stationary structures, such as dam spillways. Saturated ground can lead to instability or collapse, and standing water can damage roads, building foundations, and electrical circuits. Floodwaters can also break utility lines and interrupt services. Other problems related to flooding and stormwater runoff include erosion, sedimentation, degradation of water quality, losses of environmental resources, and certain health hazards (e.g., mold growth). Flood events in Contra Costa County can occur from a river, creek, or canal overtopping its banks, a flash flood from intense precipitation in a targeted area, water pooling in low-lying areas and overwhelming drain systems, levee or dam failure, or waves and high water along coastal areas. A large portion of developed and undeveloped lands in the county are subject to flooding as a result of heavy seasonal rainfall, dam inundation, and canal or levee failure. A majority of these flood-prone lands are subject to inundation specifically from heavy rainfall and resulting stream overflows. Climate change will likely enlarge the area of the county that is at risk of flooding. Flood Hazards Areas at an elevated risk of flooding are divided into 100-, 200-, and 500-year flood zones. A 100-year floodplain has a 1 percent chance of experiencing a flood in any given year; a 200-year floodplain has a 0.5 percent chance of flooding in a given year; and a 500-year flood plain has a 0.2 percent chance of flooding in any given year. Figure HS-2 shows the 100- and 500-year floodplains in Contra Costa County. There are no 200-year flood zone maps for Contra Costa County, but the 500-year flood zone can be used as a proxy in low-lying portions of East County (i.e., areas mainly at risk of flooding from the Delta). Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix B-9 The floodplains in Contra Costa County include the areas along the shorelines of the San Francisco Bay, San Pablo Bay, Carquinez Strait, Suisun Bay, San Joaquin River, and Old River; tracts in the eastern portion of the county; and areas adjacent to inland tributaries. Floodplains can change over time, including through land development and the resulting reduction of pervious land, construction of bridges or culverts, or through building levees or other impoundment structures that control the flow in the wa tercourse. The Contra Costa Flood Control and Water Conservation District (CCFCWCD) is the primary local flood control agency for the county. It constructs and maintains regional flood control facilities, including approximately 79 miles of channels, creeks, and other drainages and 30 detention basins and dams. CCFCWCD works to reduce flood risk, promote stormwater quality, and restore and enhance natural resources in an environmentally sensitive manner for communities throughout Contra Costa County. Other agencies responsible for flood control in Contra Costa County include the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), the Federal Insurance Administration (FIA), and the California Department of Water Resources (DWR). Canal or Levee Failure Canals and levees in Contra Costa County are maintained by CCFCWCD, USACE, 13 special reclamation districts, and private landowners. These levees and drainage systems protect agricultural and rural areas, critical infrastructure like highways, and important environmental resources. Levee or canal bank failures or overtopping can cause sudden and severe flooding in surrounding areas. There are over 1,100 miles of earthen levees and revetments managed by CCFCWCD and reclamation districts in the county. Rudimentary levees along many smaller streams and creeks also protect small areas of land. Many levees are old and were built under a different set of flood management goals and standards. Using the best available data, DWR has identified areas in the Central Valley known as Levee Flood Protection Zones (LFPZ), which are places where flood waters would be three feet above base flood elevation or more if a levee were to fail. While there are no mapped LFPZs in Contra Costa County, FEMA has mapped areas in East County, such as Discovery Bay. that are at a reduced flood risk due to levees, as shown in Figure HS-2. Additionally, while not mapped, Bethel Island is below sea level and surrounded by levees. A levee failure would likely cause inundation of several feet throughout the island. Dam Failure A dam failure is an uncontrolled release of water from a reservoir through a dam because of structural failures or deficiencies in the dam, usually associated with intense rainfall or prolonged flooding, but it could also happen because of an earthquake, landslides, or equipment malfunction. Dam failures can range from minor to catastrophic and can potentially harm human life, property, ecosystems, and habitat downstream. Although dam failures are very rare, they are not unprecedented. Dam inundation zones are based on the highly unlikely scenario of a total catastrophic dam failure in a very short period of time. According to the USACE’s National Inventory of Dams, there are 21 dams of significant concern in Contra Costa County, and another 6 dams outside the county have inundation areas extending into the county. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), as required by federal law, has reviewed and approved comprehensive emergency action plans (EAP) for each of these dams. The EAPs minimize the threat to public safety and the response time to an impending or actual sudden release of water B-10 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix from dams. The EAPs are also designed to provide emergency notifications when floodwater releases present the potential for major flooding. As mandated by the National Dam Inspection Act, the USACE has the authority and responsibility for conducting inspections of all dams. The purpose of these inspections is to check the structural integrity of the dam and associated appurtenant structures, ensuring protection of human life and property. Periodic inspections disclose conditions that might disrupt operation or dam safety. Figure HS-4 illustrates areas in the county that would be affected by inundation if any of these dams failed. Tsunamis Earthquakes can create tsunamis as a secondary hazard, and tsunamis have the potential to affect the shoreline areas of Contra Costa County. Tsunamis are typically caused by earthquakes generated in offshore subduction zones. The sudden movement displaces a large volume of water, creating a tsunami wave that can travel across the ocean at speeds up to 700 miles per hour. As the tsunami enters shallower water near coastal shorelines, it slows to about 20 to 30 miles per hour and the wave can increase to a height of 90 feet or more as it approaches the coastline and the water column compresses. Tsunamis can result in severe property damages and loss of life in affected areas near the coast. They can also disrupt emergency services and transportation routes. Tsunami waves can also diffract around land masses. Because tsunamis are not symmetrical, the waves may be much stronger in one direction than another, depending on the nature of the source and the surrounding geography. Earthquakes of magnitudes below 6.5 are very unlikely to trigger a tsunami so it is a particularly rare phenomenon. The narrow opening of the Golden Gate Strait also protects much of the inner Bay Area shoreline from severe tsunami impacts. Nonetheless, the County considers susceptibility to tsunami when reviewing development proposals. Figure HS-5 illustrates the areas that may be subject to inundation from tsunamis in Contra Costa County. The only areas of the county that are considered at risk from tsunamis are the shoreline areas along San Francisco Bay, San Pablo Bay, and a portion of the Carquinez Strait. Sieche A seiche is a wave that can occur in an enclosed or partially enclosed body of water, such as a reservoir, bay, or harbor. Seiches can be caused by a variety of factors, including changes in atmospheric pressure, wind, and seismic or geologic activity. When a seiche occurs, it can cause water levels to rise and fall rapidly, which poses a risk to boats, docks, and other structures in the affected area. Seiches can generate waves that can inundate areas around the affected water body, similar to a tsunami. Additionally, seiches occurring in a reservoir can cause overtopping of a dam and result in regional flooding. While seiches are a risk associated with earthquakes and tsunamis, it is unlikely that one would occur in the San Pablo or San Francisco Bays or in the reservoirs in Contra Costa County. Sea-Level Rise and Shoreline Flooding Sea-level rise is a gradual increase in the ocean’s surface height over years or decades. Sea-level rise is a direct result of climate change and affects coastal communities as well as those along the San Francisco Bay and into the Sacramento/San Joaquin Delta region. Sea-level rise has the potential to inundate homes, businesses, and infrastructure near the shorelines as well as cause erosion of coastal lands over time. Rising seas increase the risk of coastal flooding, storm surge inundation, coastal erosion and shoreline retreat, and wetland loss. The communities and infrastructure that line many coasts are already vulnerable to damage from storms, which will likely Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix B-11 increase as the sea level continues to rise and inundate areas further inland. Finally, rising tides may increase groundwater levels, inundating contaminated soil and pushing toxins toward the surface. Given that some contaminated sites in Contra Costa County sit near the shoreline, rising groundwater may cause contaminated soils to leach into previously unaffected areas. Along the Contra Costa County shoreline, sea levels are projected to rise approximately 2 feet (24 inches) by 2050 and 7 feet (84 inches) by 2100. However, it is possible that sea levels could rise faster than these projections, which has happened historic ally. Projections for the expected depth of water that would inundate dry land in the years 2050 and 2100 in Contra Costa County are shown in Figures HS-6 and HS-8, respectively. Land that is below sea level could be inundated by water deeper than the sea- level rise (e.g., 2 feet of sea-level rise could expose land 2 feet below sea level to 4 feet of water). Sea levels may increase enough by 2100 to permanently flood low-lying areas along the shorelines of the Carquinez Strait and Suisun Bay as well as large tracts of land in the eastern portion of the county adjacent to Old River. Rising sea levels can cause the shoreline to flood more frequently and severely during storms or king tide events. For example, a storm that has a 1 in 5 chance of occurring in a given year (known as a 5-year storm) can create a temporary increase in sea levels of approximately 24 inches.Because ocean levels are higher during normal conditions due to sea-level rise, shoreline floods can reach further onto land. This means that if sea levels rise by 24 inches during normal conditions, a 5-year storm event would create a temporary sea-level rise of around 48 inches. Shoreline flooding projections for the years 2050 and 2100 in Contra Costa County are shown in Figures HS-7 and HS-9, respectively. The San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission (BCDC) requires that shoreline protection projects, such as levees and seawalls, be designed to withstand the effects of projected sea-level rise and be integrated with adjacent shoreline protection. Past Occurrences Floods are a regular occurrence in California and cause the second-greatest number of disaster declarations in the state. Delta flooding has a long history in Contra Costa County and is a continuing hazard. Since construction of levees started in the early 1860s, every island in the Delta has been flooded at least once due to levee overtopping or failure. Approximately 110 levee failures have occurred since 1900, including about 12 since 1980. Since 1969, 10 flood events in Contra Costa County have been declared federal disasters. These 10 floods caused over $50 million in property damage. There are several major floods in the county’s history. In 1955, strong storms inundated almost 38,000 acres and caused about $3.3 million in damage. The Delta area suffered permanent damage to a sizeable amount of agricultural land. Concurrent strong onshore winds generated high waves that threatened many islands. In January and February 1969, high tides and adverse wave action in the Delta combined with large river inflow and rain-soaked levees to cause flooding of several islands; approximately 11,400 acres were flooded, totaling $9.2 million in flood damage. In mid-January 1980, severe rainstorms over central California precipitated high river outflow through the Delta that coincided with gale force winds and high tides, resulting in levee failure and flooding of two tracts, with approximately 9,600 acres under water. Continued high inflow to the Delta and wind-generated waves increased erosion on all Delta-area levees, necessitating temporary curtailment of boat traffic. B-12 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix In June 2004, Jones Tract in San Joaquin County near the border with Contra Costa County experienced a levee breech. In August 2009, a bulk carrier ship stuck a levee at Bradford Island north of Bethel Island, also causing a serious breach. More recently, communities in Contra Costa County report increased damage from king tide events, especially when paired with heavy rain, and community members are attributing these changes to sea -level rise. Potential Changes to Flood Risk in Future Years Historically, extended heavy rains have resulted in floodwaters that exceed normal high-water boundaries and cause damage in Contra Costa County. Flooding has occurred within both the 100- and 500-year floodplains and in other localized areas. As land uses and climate conditions shift and as improvements are made to flood-control channels, the size of these flood zones is likely to change. Although climate change may not change average precipitation levels significantly, scientists expect that it will cause more events of extreme precipitation. That is, more years are likely to have particularly intense storm systems that drop enough precipitation over a short enough period to cause flooding. Because of this, floods are expected more often in Contra Costa County, and climate change may expand the parts of the county that are considered prone to flood. Climate change is also expected to increase the frequency and severity of droughts, which cause soil to dry out and harden. When precipitation does return, more water runs off the hardened surface than is absorbed into the ground, which can lead to floods. Tsunamis depend on a seismic event. Major earthquakes are rare, but they are a possibility in the region and could generate tsunamis under some circumstances. A more likely instance is a tsunami triggered by a distant earthquake that could still be large enough to cause damage in Contra Costa County. Sea levels have risen in San Francisco Bay and are expected to continue rising at an accelerated rate over the coming century. Sea-level rise will occur slowly over time and increase impacts of other coastal hazards, such as shoreline erosion and the potential impact of tsunamis. Community assets and infrastructure that border the shoreline are vulnerable to damage from storms, which will likely increase as the sea level continues to rise and inundate areas further inland. As sea levels rise, the area and number of people at risk because of flooding will also increase. The potential for a dam failure event affecting Contra Costa County will remain a risk in future years, although the likelihood of such events is expected to remain very low. Fire Hazards The combination of complex terrain, Mediterranean climate, and productive natural plant communities, along with ample natural ignition sources, has created conditions for extensive wildfires in and around Contra Costa County, making this a hazard of high concern. Historically, the fire season extended from early summer through late fall during the hottest, driest months of the year, but it is becoming a hazard that can occur year -round. Wildfire conditions arise from a combination of high temperatures, low- moisture content in the air and plant matter, an accumulation of vegetation, and high winds. They can be sparked by lightning, malfunctioning equipment, carelessness, and other causes There is also a risk of structural fires in Contra Costa County. Three types of fires are of concern to Contra Costa County: (1) wildfires, (2) wildland-urban interface fires, and (3) structural fires. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix B-13 Wildfires and Wildland-Urban Interface Fires Wildfires occur on mountains, hillsides, and grasslands. Fuel, weather, and topography are primary factors that affect how wildland fires spread. In Contra Costa County, grassland and woodland habitat provide highly flammable fuel that is conducive to wildfires. These plant species are capable of regeneration after a fire, making periodic wildfires a natural part of the ecology of these areas. The climate of Contra Costa County keeps the grass dry and more readily combustible during fire season. Seasonal drought conditions exacerbate fire hazards. The wildfire potential for Contra Costa County is typically greatest when dry vegetation coexists with hot, dry winds, known as Diablo winds. Diablo winds come from the north and northeast, carrying extremely dry air at a high velocity, usually occurring in the San Francisco Bay Area. The name “Diablo wind” refers to the fact that the wind blows into the inner Bay Area from the direction of Mount Diablo in Contra Costa County. These hot, dry winds can quickly desiccate vegetation and other combustible materials and can push a fire down or up a slope at very high speeds. During these times, controlling a fire becomes far more difficult. The wildland-urban interface (WUI) is an area where buildings and infrastructure mix with areas of flammable wildland vegetation. Wildfires are often most dangerous when they burn into this region because most people and structures in wildfire-prone areas are in the WUI. The WUI can be subdivided into the intermix zone (where houses and wildland vegetation directly mingle), the interface zone (housing adjacent to wildland vegetation, but not mingled with it), and the influence zone (areas of wildfire -susceptible vegetation surrounding the others). The interface and intermix zones are typically the areas of highest risk. Increasing local and regional fire frequency can also create recurring air quality degradation events leading to respiratory health effects. Wildfire smoke consists of a mix of gases and fine particulate matter from burning vegetation and materials. The pollutant of most concern from wildfire smoke is fine particulate matter (PM2.5). PM2.5 from wildfire smoke is damaging to human health due to its ability to deeply penetrate lung tissue and affect the heart and circulatory system. Although wildfire smoke presents a health risk to everyone, sensitive groups may experience more severe acute and chronic symptoms from exposure to wildfire smoke, including children, older adults, people with chronic respiratory or cardiovascular disease, people experiencing low socioeconomic status, or people who spend substantial time outdoors, such as agricultural workers.. Structural Fires Contra Costa County is also at risk from structural fires. These fires occur in built-up environments, destroying buildings and other human-made structures. Structural fires are often due to faulty wiring or mechanical equipment, or human error, combined with combustible construction materials. Older buildings that lack modern fire safety features may face greater risk of damage from fires. Fire Hazard Zones The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) establishes Fire Hazard Severity Zones (FHSZ), designating moderate, high, or very high severity. Unincorporated areas are considered State Responsibility Areas (SRA). SRAs are areas where CAL FIRE has responsibility for fire protection. Local jurisdictions do not have financial responsibility for wildland fire protection in SRAs. B-14 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix The highest areas at risk for fires are in western Contra Costa County and in the foothills and mountainous watershed areas around Mount Diablo and Los Vaqueros. Grassland areas, especially in eastern Contra Costa County, also face wildfire risk. Figure HS-10 shows the FHSZs in Contra Costa County, and Figure HS-11 identifies the WUI. Water Pressure and Supply Insufficient water pressure and supply also contribute to wildfire danger. Most of the higher-risk wildfire areas in the county are not served by public water systems. Fire districts serving these areas are typically equipped with tank trucks. Properties designated for residential use in areas without public water service are required to maintain sufficient on -site water storage, and new development must have sufficient water pressure for firefighting purposes. Fire Protection Fire protection service is addressed in the Public Facilities and Services Element. Six fire protection districts (the Contra Costa Fire Protection District, San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, Moraga -Orinda Fire Protection District, Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District, Crockett- Carquinez Fire Protection District, and Kensington Fire Protection District) and three city fire departments provide fire prevention and protection services that adequately cover the entire county except for Jersey Island, Bradford Island, Quimby Island, Webb Tract, and the Marathon Refinery near Martinez. Other service providers include CAL FIRE and the Federal Fire Department Concord-US Army. All agencies, including CAL FIRE, participate in mutual and automatic aid agreements to provide services outside of their bounds. Mutual aid agreements help ensure adequate response times in outlying areas. The County also has a contract with the State Office of Emergency Services. The jurisdictional boundaries for these fire protection districts are illustrated in Figure PFS-5 in the Public Facilities Element. Past Occurrences From 2010 to 2022, there were 24 wildfires in Contra Costa County, most burning over 100 acres. Some burned considerably more acreage, most notably the 2020 Santa Clara Unit (SCU) Complex Fire. These events are illustrated in Figure HS-12; fires over 100 acres in size are listed in Table C-1. TABLE C-1: FIRE SIZES AND DATES (100+ ACRES, 2010–2021) Date Fire Name Size in Acres June 11, 2010 Vista Fire 186 July 2, 2010 Bradford Fire 510 August 24-26, 2010 Curry Fire 375 December 1-2, 2011 Collier Fire 198 July 1, 2013 Kirker Fire 492 July 1, 2013 Concord Fire 274 September 8-14, 2013 Morgan Fire 3,111 June 24-25, 2015 Loma Fire 533 July 30, 2015 Vasco Fire 195 July 25-August 3, 2018 Marsh Fire 247 August 1-8, 2019 Marsh 3 Fire 340 August 1-8, 2019 Marsh 5 Fire 227 August 1-8, 2019 Marsh 6 Fire 174 August 17-October 1, 2020 Santa Clara Unit Complex Fire 396,824* July 11, 2021 Diablo Fire 128 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix B-15 June 23, 2022 Scenic Fire 120 September 5, 2022 Franklin Fire 125 Sources: Contra Costa 2018 LHMP; California Fire Incident Database. * The SCU Complex Fire burned 3,305 acres within the borders of Contra Costa County. The SCU Complex Fire, which started on August 17, 2020, is by far the largest fire to burn in Contra Costa County in recent years. The fire burned approximately 396,824 acres across Santa Clara, Alameda, Contra Costa, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, and Merced counties and lasted 44 days, with 3,305 of those acres in Contra Costa County. The fire consisted of three zones: the Deer Zone in Contra Costa County; the Canyon Zone in Alameda, Santa Clara, and parts of Stanislaus counties; and the Calaveras zone in parts of Stanislaus, San Joaquin, and Merced counties. The SCU Complex Fire was one of several fire complexes burning in California during August and September 2020. The fire destroyed 222 structures, damaged 26 structures, and injured 6 people, although no fatalities were recorded. As of summer 2023, this fire was the fourth-largest wildfire in California’s modern history. Potential Changes to Fire Risk in Future Years Wildfire is expected to continue being a high-risk hazard in Contra Costa County. Smoke impacts from local and regional wildfires are also likely to continue being problematic. Changing climate conditions are expected to increase the fire risk in and aroun d Contra Costa County. Warmer temperatures brought on by climate change can exacerbate drought conditions. Droughts can kill or dry out plants, creating more fuel for wildfires. Warmer temperatures are also expected to increase the number of pest outbreaks, such as the pine beetle, creating more dead trees and increasing the fuel load. Hot, dry spells may also increase disease and insect infestations, resulting in higher fuel loads. Higher wind speeds cause more erratic fire behavior, making fires harder to contain. Warmer temperatures are also expected to extend the wildfire season from earlier in the year to later than it has been historically. Wildfires later or earlier in the year are more likely during Diablo wind events, which cause wildfires to move more quickly and increase the likelihood of burning in the WUI areas. Hazardous Materials and Waste Types of Hazardous Materials Hazardous materials are materials that pose a significant risk to public safety or human or environmental health. Hazardous materials come from a variety of sources within the county. Some common categories are briefly discussed below to provide a framework for the policies and actions in the Health and Safety Element. Hazardous materials include toxic chemicals, flammable or corrosive materials, petroleum products, and unstable or dangerously reactive materials. They can be released through human error, malfunctioning or broken equipment, or as an indirect consequence of other emergencies (e.g., if a flood damages a hazardous material storage tank). Hazardous materials can also be released accidentally during transportation (e.g., from vehicle accidents). A release or spill of bulk hazardous materials could result in a fire, explosion, toxic cloud, or direct contamination of people, property, and the environment. The effects may involve a small site or many square miles. Health problems may be immediate, such as corrosive effects on skin and lungs, or gradual, such as development of cancer from a carcinogen. Damage to property could include immediate destruction by explosion or permanent contamination by a persistent hazardous material. Figure HS-14 shows the location of toxic release facilities and the toxic releases exposure rankings for census tracts in unincorporated Contra Costa County. As B-16 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix illustrated in Figure HS-14, exposure to toxic releases is greatest in Rodeo, Crockett, Mountain View, Vine Hill, Clyde, and Bay Point. Transportation of Hazardous and Toxic Materials Land use hazards associated with the transport of hazardous cargo exist in Contra Costa County. A number of major, interstate transportation routes pass through the county and a wide range of hazardous cargo is regularly transported along these routes by trucks, trains, and ships. The most vulnerable areas are considered freeway on-/off-ramps and interchanges. Types of hazardous cargo regularly transported out of, into, and through Contra Costa County include flammable liquids, corrosive materials, compressed and/or poisonous gases, explosives, and flammable solids. Some potential exists for a highway, railway, or shipping mishap that could cause hazardous cargo to spill, contaminating surrounding areas. If flammable liquids were to ignite, they could quickly spread fire and poisonous fumes that could cause human casu alties and/or property damage. Spilled liquids could also contaminate the Bay or nearby streams or drainage facilities, spreading the effects of an accident over a much larger area. Since 1970, 105 railway and 100 roadway hazardous materials incidents have occurred in Contra Costa County. In addition, hundreds of miles of pipelines that transport natural gas, crude oil, and refined petroleum products traverse Contra Costa County, including through residential and commercial areas. Such pipelines cross areas with active fault lines, landslide deposits, unstable slopes, and areas underlain by soft mud and peat. Most pipelines containing flammable or hazardous materials are underground. Each type of pipeline operates under various pressures depending on the size of the pipe, material, and what is necessary to move the material through the pipes. Despite all precautionary measures, pipelines are at risk of leaking into the environment or releasing flammable material. Agency Monitoring and Response Hazardous materials and waste in Contra Costa County are managed by the Contra Costa Hazardous Materials Programs (CCHMP), which is the Certified Unified Program Agency (CUPA) for all of Contra Costa County.. The CUPA consolidates, coordinates, and makes consistent the regulatory activities of several hazardous materials and hazardous waste programs, including Hazardous Materials Management, California Accidental Release Prevention, Hazardous Waste Management, Underground Storage Tanks, Aboveground Storage Tanks, and Emergency Response. Several State agencies monitor hazardous materials and waste facilities. Figure HS-15 shows the location of hazardous waste generators and the hazardous waste exposure rankings for census tracts in unincorporated Contra Costa County. As illustrated on the figure, exposure to hazardous waste generators is greatest in North Richmond, Montalvin Manor, Bayview, Tara Hills, Rollingwood, El Sobrante, Rodeo, Crockett, Port Costa, Mountain View, Vine Hill, Clyde, Pacheco, Bay Point, Parkmead, Castle Hill, Alamo, Byron, Winter Island, and the Agriculture Core east of Brentwood. Potential and known contamination sites are monitored and documented by the State Water Resources Control Board and the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC). Figure HS-16 shows the locations of cleanup sites and their ranking for census tracts in unincorporated Contra Costa County. As illustrated on the figure, exposure to cleanup sites is greatest in North Richmond, Montalvin Manor, Bayview, El Sobrante, Rodeo, Crockett, Port Costa, Vine Hill, Clyde, Bay Point, Contra Costa Centre, Knightsen, and Winter Island. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix B-17 If a hazardous material spill poses an imminent public health threat, the County will support local regulating agencies in notifying the public. The transport of hazardous materials, wastes, and explosives through the county is regulated by the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). I-80, I- 580, I-680, SR-4, SR-24, SR-123, and SR-242 are open to vehicles carrying hazardous materials and wastes. Transporters of hazardous wastes are required to be certified by Caltrans, and manifests are required to track the hazardous material or waste during transport. The danger of hazardous materials and waste spills during transport does exist and can potentially increase as transportation of these materials increases on freeways and railways. The Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, CAL FIRE, Contra Costa County Emergency Services Division, and Contra Costa County Division of Environmental Health are responsible for hazardous materials accidents at all locations in the county. Depending on location, Contra C osta County fire protection districts will also respond to hazardous materials accidents. Potential Changes to Hazardous Material Risk in Future Years Although a hazardous material accident can occur almost anywhere, certain regions are more vulnerable. The potential for an accident increases in regions near roadways or railways that are frequently used for transporting hazardous material as well as those with agricultural or industrial facilities that use, store, handle, or dispose of hazardous material. Given that 205 hazardous materials incidents have happened in transport through the county in the past 50 years, it is likely a hazardous materials incident will occur in Contra Costa County every year. However, according to Caltrans, most incidents are related to releases of fluids from the transporting vehicles themselves and not the cargo; therefore, the likelihood of a significant hazardous materials release in the county is more limited and difficult to predict. Climate change is expected to cause increases in the frequency and intensity of natural hazards, such as floods, landslides, and severe storms. This may lead to a greater risk of hazardous materials releases during these events. Seismic and Geologic Hazards Seismic hazards include earthquakes and hazardous events caused by them. Geologic hazards are other hazards involving land movements that are not linked to seismic activity and are capable of inflicting harm to people or property. Seismic Hazards Seismic activity occurs along boundaries in the earth’s crust, called faults. Pressure along the faults builds over time and is ultimately released, resulting in ground shaking. Earthquakes can also trigger other hazards, including surface rupture (cracks in the ground surface), liquefaction (causing loose soil to lose its strength), landslides, and subsidence (sinking of the ground surface). Earthquakes and other seismic hazards often damage or destroy property and public infrastructure, including utility lines, and falling objects or structures pose a risk of injury or death. Earthquake risk is very high in Contra Costa County due to the presence of several active faults in the region: the Calaveras (North Central) Fault, Concord-Green Valley Fault, Greenville Fault, Hayward Fault, Mount Diablo Fault, and San Andreas Fault. Figure HS-17 shows the locations of regional faults. ● Calaveras (North Central) Fault: The Calaveras (North Central) Fault is a major branch of the San Andreas Fault. It extends 76 miles from the San Andreas Fault near Hollister to Danville at its northern end. The Calaveras (North Central) Fault is one of the most geologically active and B-18 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix complex faults in the Bay Area. According to the 2018 Contra Costa County LHMP, the probability of experiencing a magnitude 6.7 or greater earthquake along the Calaveras (North Central) Fault in the next 30 years (beginning from 2018) is 26 percent. ● Concord-Green Valley Fault: The Concord-Green Valley Fault, so named because it is under the city of Concord, is connected to the main Green Valley Fault. The fault extends from Mount Diablo to the Carquinez Strait. It is under high stress and has a 16 percent probability of experiencing a magnitude 6.7 or greater earthquake in the next 30 years (beginning from 2018). ● Greenville Fault: The Greenville Fault extends from northwest of Livermore Valley along the Marsh Creek and Clayton faults toward Clayton Valley. ● Hayward Fault: The Hayward Fault is a 45-mile-long fault that runs through some of the Bay Area’s most populated areas, including San Jose, Oakland, and Berkeley. The Hayward Fault is becoming a hazard priority throughout the Bay Area because of its increased chance for activity and its intersection with highly populated areas and critical infrastructure. The probability of experiencing a magnitude 6.7 or greater earthquake along the Hayward Fault in the next 30 years (beginning from 2018) is 33 percent. ● Mount Diablo Fault: The Mount Diablo thrust fault runs from Walnut Creek to Livermore. It plays a role in the continued uplift of Mount Diablo. 4 United States Geologic Survey. 2023. Frequently Asked Questions. https://www.usgs.gov/faqs/what-probability-earthquake-will-occur-los- angeles-area-san-francisco-bay- ● San Andreas Fault: The San Andreas Fault is a major fault in the Bay Area region that has created devastating seismic activity, most notably in the 1906 San Francisco Earthquake and 1989 Loma Prieta Earthquake. This fault is approximately 15 miles to the west of the western edge of Contra Costa County. The probability of experiencing a magnitude 6.7 or greater earthquake along the San Andreas Fault by 2050 is 72 percent and a magnitude 7.5 or greater in that same timeframe is 20 percent.4 Figure HS-17 shows the Alquist-Priolo Fault Zones in the county and the areas susceptible to shaking from a hypothetical major earthquake. The Alquist-Priolo Fault Zones are areas around active faults that are known to cause surface rupture, meaning that the surface of the ground is “pulled apart” during seismic activity. Structures within these zones are subject to specific building codes and regulations to ensure they can withstand the effects of earthquakes, as surface rupture can seriously damage buildings and other structures built on top of the fault. Potential shaking in Figure HS-17 is rated from very strong shaking to violent shaking. As illustrated on the figure, the western portions of the county are most susceptible to violent shaking; the communities of North Richmond, Montalvin Manor, Bayview, Tara Hills, Rollingwood, El Sobrante, East Richmond Heights, Kensington, and Canyon are most vulnerable. Earthquakes have secondary effects and can cause urban fires, dam failures, tsunamis, sieches, and toxic chemical releases. A major earthquake along any fault could result in substantial casualties and damage from collapsed buildings; damaged roads, railroads, and bridges; fires; flooding; and other area#:~:text=Within%20the%20next%2030%20years,an%20earthquake %20measuring%20magnitude%207.5 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix B-19 threats to life and property. Most of the loss of life and injuries from earthquakes are due to damage and collapse of buildings and structures. Building codes for new construction have generally been made more stringent following damaging earthquakes. However, in Contra Costa County, structures built prior to enactment of these improved building codes have generally not been upgraded to current standards and are vulnerable in earthquakes. In Contra Costa County, approximately 36,050 homes, or 57 percent of all housing in the unincorporated areas of county, were constructed prior to 1980.5 Liquefaction In addition to the direct physical damage that can result from the motion of an earthquake, damage can result from liquefaction. Liquefaction occurs where water-logged soils near the ground surface lose compaction during strong ground motion, causing the soils to lose strength and behave as liquid. This can cause building foundations to shift and can result in significant structural damage. Soils susceptible to liquefaction are typically found in areas of low-lying current or former floodplains. Areas with high liquefaction potential are shown on Figure HS-18. Geologic Hazards Other geologic hazards also exist within the county. These hazards, which include landslides and erosion, depend on the geologic composition of the area. Landslides and rock falls may occur in sloped areas, especially areas with steep slopes, and usually in areas of loose and fragmented soil. Landslides, rockfalls, and debris flows can be very slow, while others occur 5 United States Census Bureau. 2016–2020 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates: Year Structure Built. very suddenly, often with disastrous results. There are predictable relationships between local geology and landslides, rockfalls, and debris flows. Slope stability is dependent on many factors and interrelationships, including rock type, pore water pressure, slope steepness, and natural or human-made undercutting. Landslides are usually triggered by other natural hazards like earthquakes, heavy rain, floods, or wildfires, so landslide frequency is often related to the frequency of these other hazards. The many types of landslides are categorized based on form and type of movement. They range from slow- moving rotational slumps and earth flows, which can distress structures over time but are less threatening to personal safety, to fast-moving rock avalanches and debris flows that are a serious threat to structures and have been responsible for most fatalities during landslide events. Many large landslides are complex and include a combination of more than one landslide type. In Contra Costa County, landslides typically occur during and after severe storms, so the potential for landslides largely coincides with the potential for sequential severe storms that saturate steep, vulnerable soils. Landslides and mudslides are a common occurrence and have caused damage to homes, public facilities, roads, parks, and sewer lines. Upland areas of the county are susceptible to landslides, land slips, mudflows, and debris flows. Triggered by an earthquake, heavy rainfall, or changes in ground conditions caused by development activity, these events can send large volumes of land cascading down hillsides, destroying property along the way. Figure HS-19 illustrates areas in Contra Costa County that are most susceptible to landslides. B-20 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix Contra Costa County is also susceptible to hazards related to erosion, the geological process in which earthen materials are worn away and transported by natural forces such as water or wind, causing the soil to deteriorate. Eroded topsoil can be transported into streams and other waterways. Water erosion is the removal of soil by water and transport of the eroded materials away from the point of removal. The severity of water erosion is influenced by slope, soil type, the soil’s capacity for water storage, nature of the underlying rock, vegetation cover, and rainfall intensity and duration. The impact of soil erosion on water quality can be significant, particularly with soil surface runoff. Highly erosive soils can damage roads, bridges, buildings, and other structures. Past Occurrences Contra Costa County is in a region of high seismicity with numerous local faults. A number of significant earthquakes (i.e., more than magnitude 5.0) have occurred in and near Contra Costa County over the last 35 years. The South Napa earthquake on August 24, 2014, was the most recent notable earthquake near Contra Costa County. It was on the West Napa Fault, and its epicenter was near the Napa Valley Marina. With a recorded magnitude of 6.0, it was the largest in the Bay Area in about 25 years. The South Napa Earthquake caused extensive damage through ground shaking and surface cracking. This earthquake resulted in one death and approximately 200 injuries in the affected region. Ground shaking was felt in Contra Costa County. The magnitude 6.9 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake was on the San Andreas fault roughly 48 miles southwest of Contra Costa County and 10 miles northeast of Santa Cruz, near Mt. Loma Prieta in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Statewide, 18,306 houses were damaged and 963 were Earthquake Magnitude Scale Magnitude 3.0 or less: Usually not felt, but can be recorded by a seismograph. Magnitude 3.0 to 4.0: Minor earthquake felt by humans. Magnitude 4.0 to 5.0: Light earthquake with some property damage. Magnitude 5.0 to 6.0: Moderate earthquake with property damage. Magnitude 6.0 to 7.0: Strong earthquake with damage in the billions of dollars and loss of life. Magnitude 7.0 to 8.0: Great earthquake with severe economic impact and large loss of life. Magnitude 8.0 or greater: Largest recorded earthquakes, destruction over vast area, massive loss of life. Source: Gavin Hayes and David Wald, USGS, Earthquake Magnitude, Energy Release, and Shaking Intensity, https://www.usgs.gov/programs/earthquake- hazards/earthquake-magnitude-energy-release- and-shaking-intensity, accessed June 9, 2023.. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix B-21 destroyed, and 2,575 businesses were damaged and 147 were destroyed. The most notable damage included the collapse of the elevated Cypress Structure section of I-880 in Oakland, the collapse of a section of roadbed on the Bay Bridge, and extensive damage to downtown Santa Cruz and San Francisco's Marina District. The Bay Bridge was unusable for a month. This earthquake resulted in an economic loss of approximately $10 billion; 63 people died, 3,757 were reported injured, and 12,053 were displaced. Though major earthquakes are rare in Contra Costa County, minor earthquakes occur more often. Small landslides are a common occurrence, generally on hillsides and in winter during high precipitation years. Potential Changes to Geologic and Seismic Risk in Future Years Earthquakes are likely to continue on an occasional basis and are likely to be small in most instances. Most are expected to cause no substantive damage and may not even be felt by most people. According to the California State Hazard Mitigation Plan, earthquakes large enough to cause moderate damage to structures—those of magnitude 5.5 or larger—occur three to four times a year statewide. Strong earthquakes of magnitude 6 to 6.9 strike an average of once every two to three years. Major earthquakes of magnitude 7 to 7.9 occur in California about once every 10 years. A major earthquake along any regional fault could result in substantial casualties and damage, although the greatest risk in Contra Costa County is from the Hayward-Rodger’s Creek Fault and the Concord-Green Valley Fault due to their location and high potential to cause a severe earthquake. A major earthquake on the Hayward Fault could damage or destroy primary evacuation routes and bridges, limiting access in and out of the community. Underground utility lines are also susceptible where they lack sufficien t flexibility to accommodate the seismic ground motion. Geologic risks, such as small landslides, are common occurrences in Contra Costa County. With significant rainfall, additional slope failures are likely in the community’s landslide hazard areas, and minor to moderate landslides will likely continue to impact the area after heavy precipitation, as they have in the past. Heavy rainfall, which is expected to increase due to climate change, could cause an increase in the number of landslides or make landslides larger than in the past. Increased wildfire frequency can destabilize hillsides due to loss of vegetation and change in soil composition, which can contribute to greater runoff and erosion. The combination of a generally drier climate in the future, which will increase the chance of drought and wildfires, and the occasional extreme downpour, is likely to cause more mudslides and landslides. Impacts from these conditions would compound landslide potential for the most susceptible locations. Emergency Preparedness and Response Community Warning Systems The County uses the Contra Costa County Community Warning System (CWS) to notify residents and businesses within Contra Costa County that are impacted by, or are in danger of being impacted by, an emergency. The system provides basic information about incidents and what specific protective actions (e.g., shelter in place, lockdown, evacuate, or avoid the area) are necessary to protect life and health. The CWS is a partnership of the Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff, Contra Costa Health Services, other government agencies, industry, news media, and the non-profit Community Awareness and Emergency Response organization. CWS notifications may include: ● Sirens in special safety zones B-22 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix ● Emergency Alert System (EAS) alerts on television and radio (KCBS 740 AM) ● Use of the Telephone Emergency Notification System ● Cell phone alerts ● National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather radios ● Notices posted on Twitter and Facebook Alerts are distributed via voice, text, and email messages through the CWS Telephone Emergency Notification System. This computerized system makes telephone calls to the known telephone numbers in the vicinity of the hazard based on the incident-specific issues. Other systems include the EAS and the Emergency Digital Information System (EDIS). The EAS is a national public warning system commonly used by State and local authorities to deliver important emergency information to affected communities, such as weather and AMBER alerts. EAS participants include radio and television broadcasters, cable systems, satellite radio and television providers, and wireline video providers. FEMA, the Federal Communications System, and NOAA’s National Weather Service (NWS) work collaboratively to maintain the EAS and Wireless Emergency Alerts, which are the two main components of the national public warning system and enable authorities at all levels of government to send urgent emergency information to the public. The EDIS is a wireless emergency and disaster information service operated by the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (OES) and is an enhancement to the EAS. These systems are available in multiple languages. Emergency Evacuation With advanced warning, evacuation can be effective in reducing injury and loss of life during a catastrophic event. Figure HS-20 shows the potential evacuation routes throughout the county, including highways and major surface streets, although the preferred evacuation routes in any individual evacuation order will depend on the emergency. Some parts of the county may face challenges evacuating, particularly those far from major roadways. Additionally, some areas have only one viable route of evacuation, which could become blocked or congested. Figure HS-21 shows residential parcels with evacuation constraints. All parcels identified as having evacuation constraints are at least a half mile from a major roadway and/or have access to only one emergency evacuation route. In most cases, it is not feasible to retrofit existing neighborhoods to eliminate physical evacuation constraints such as lack of evacuation routes or insufficient roadway capacity. The County will nonetheless strive to improve evacuation from these constrained areas. All evacuation routes in Contra Costa County face a potential disruption from flooding, earthquake, wildfire, landslide, or hazardous materials release. An emergency event may block roadways, damage the roadway surface, or collapse bridges and overpasses. In the event of widespread disruption to local evacuation routes, remaining evacuation routes may become congested, slowing down evacuation of a community or specific neighborhoods. This issue may be compounded if the county’s evacuation routes are also the evacuation routes for surrounding areas, and so potential disruptions may have regional effects. In preparation for wildfires and other disasters, the County uses Zonehaven Aware, which is a comprehensive evacuation support system of the Contra Costa County CWS. Zonehaven Aware provides the community with critical Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix B-23 evacuation updates, resources, and information on active incidents. In the event of an emergency, the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office and Contra Costa County fire districts can issue evacuation warnings or evacuation orders for affected areas. The County’s website has an interactive evacuation map lookup tool that enables residents to find possible evacuation routes based on their address and respective zone. Disaster Preparedness Disaster preparedness refers to coordinated efforts to respond to both natural and human-caused disasters. In recent years, Contra Costa County has expanded its emergency preparedness planning. The County is required under State law to prepare and maintain a Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS) Multi-hazard Functional Plan. OES has extensive guidelines outlining the requirements of the Contra Costa County SEMS. Contra Costa County also participates in the California Disaster and Civil Defense Master Mutual-Aid Agreement, under which the State and local governments will work together to respond to emergencies. The Governor’s Office of Emergency Services Coastal Region (Mutual Aid Region II) serves the counties on the coast from Del Norte to Monterey and the counties surrounding San Francisco Bay. The County has its own Contra Costa County Emergency Operations Plan developed by the Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services in collaboration with emergency management partners (e.g., fire districts, law enforcement agencies,), and has prepared additional plans addressing earthquake response, disaster debris management, and airport emergencies. The County maintains an Emergency Operations Center, which is activated as needed to communicate with emergency management partners and coordinate responses to incidents. Contra Costa County OES offers Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training to residents and members of the business community to increase disaster awareness and emergency response capability through its CERT Coalition. The primary goal of the Contra Costa CERT Coalition is to promote the development, coordination, and advancement of all CERT programs in Contra Costa County, progressively improving the quality of CERT programs across jurisdictions. The CERT program educates volunteers about disaster preparedness for the hazards that may impact their area and trains them in basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations. CERT offers consistent volunteer training and organization that professional responders can rely on during disaster situations, allowing them to focus on more complex tasks. Agriculture and Ecosystem Hazards Agriculture and ecosystem hazards are addressed in the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element, in addition to the Health and Safety Element. Agricultural Pests Agriculture in Contra Costa County encompasses approximately 34 percent of the land area. Thirteen crop categories exceeded $1 million in value in 2020. These categories in descending order are cattle and calves, sweet corn, tomatoes, grapes, cherries, miscellaneous vegetable crops, miscellaneous field crops, rangeland, alfalfa hay, irrigated pasture, apricots, walnuts, and apiary (bee) products. Crop values vary from year to year due to factors like production, weather, and market conditions. Eighteen of the farms in Contra Costa County used organic production methods in 2020. B-24 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix Contra Costa County is threatened by several insect pests that, under the right circumstances, can cause severe economic and environmental harm. Insects of concern to plants and crops include the Asian gypsy moth, rosy moth, nun moth, Siberian silk moth, Asian citrus psyllid, European grapevine moth, glassy-winged sharpshooter, Japanese beetle, Mediterranean fruit fly, melon fly, and Oriental fruit fly. Aquatic Invasive Species Introduction of nonnative species into county waters can cause significant and enduring economic and environmental impacts. One of the most widespread mechanisms of introductions is transport of ballast water in ships. Ballast water is taken on and released by a vessel during cargo loading and discharging operations to maintain the vessel’s trim and stability. Ships discharge ballast water that has been obtained from waters throughout the state, country, or world. This water might include nonnative organisms, untreated sewage, and other contaminants. Invasive species of concern in Contra Costa County include the New Zealand mud snail, zebra mussel, and quagga mussel. Once introduced, invasive species are likely to become a permanent part of an ecosystem and may flourish, creating environmental imbalances and wreaking economic havoc. The New Zealand mud snail can displace native aquatic insects that fish eat, but pass through the fish without being digested. Ultimately, this can result in reduced growth rates and lower populations of fish. Zebra and quagga mussels can also kill native freshwater mussels by either attaching to the shells of native species or by outcompeting them and other filter-feeding invertebrates for food. Potential Changes to Agriculture and Ecosystems in Future Years As long as severe weather events continue to be a concern for Contra Costa County, the potential for ecosystem and agricultural losses remains. The primary causes of agricultural losses are severe weather events, such as droughts, freezes, and insect infestations. These factors can also contribute to significant ecosystem loss, as can wildfire events. Many pests and organisms that carry diseases are most active during warmer months. Given that temperatures are expected to get warmer earlier in the year and remain warmer until later in the year due to climate change, there will be a wider window for pests and diseases to be active. Climate change can also indirectly create a greater risk of agriculture and ecosystem pests and diseases. Many crop plants, trees, and livestock may be weakened by warmer temperatures and changes in precipitation. These weaker plants and animals may not be able to fend off infestations or infections as well as stronger plants or animals, causing pests and diseases to affect more of the agricultural area or ecosystem. These pests and diseases can inhibit plant and animal growth, damage plants and animals such that their products are less appealing and harder to sell, or lead to mortality. The rate of aquatic invasive species discoveries continues to increase. Due to the high number of incidents of invasive species in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, it is likely that future infestations of aquatic pests will occur in Contra Costa County. The risks associated with aquatic invasive species exist, and if a breakout occurs, there may be potentially large economic impacts. In aquatic ecosystems, climate change is expected to result in warmer water temperatures, altered streamflow patterns, increased salinization, and increased demand for water storage and conveyance structures. Due to Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix B-25 these patterns, invasive aquatic species are expected to flourish, since cold temperatures or winter hypoxic conditions are what have traditionally prevented the establishment and survival of these species in this climate. Drought Drought is addressed in the Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element and Public Facilities and Services Element, in addition to the Health and Safety Element. A drought is an extended period when precipitation levels are well below normal. Drought is a normal part of the climate cycle. Drought may cause losses to agriculture; affect domestic water supply, energy production, public health, and wildlife; or contribute to wildfire. Like most of California and the western United States, Contra Costa County chronically experiences drought cycles. Drought impacts the county’s water supply, which may in severe instances make less water available for people, businesses, and natural systems. Less snow falling in mountainous areas causes water levels in lakes and reservoirs to drop. Local ecosystems that are not well adapted to drought conditions can be easily harmed. During drought events, the flow of water in creeks and streams is reduced, slowing water flow or creating standing water, which can concentrate sediment and toxins, harming plants and animals. Droughts can also indirectly lead to more wildfires, and the stress caused by water shortages can weaken plants, making them more susceptible to pests and diseases. Drought conditions can also increase the salinity of the Delta, threatening wildlife habitat. The U.S. Drought Monitor recognizes a five-point scale for drought events: D0 (abnormally dry), D1 (moderate drought), D2 (severe drought), D3 (extreme drought), and D4 (exceptional drought). According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, the most intensive drought conditions in recent years were during most of 2014 and 2021, when all of Contra Costa County was classified in “extreme” drought. During severe drought conditions, water shortages are common and water restrictions may be imposed to meet essential community needs. When the County declares a water shortage emergency under the authority of the Water Code, the County will implement actions in the Contra Costa County 2020 Water Shortage Contingency Plan to implement and enforce regulations and restrictions for managing a water shortage. The county has a diverse set of water supply options, including surface water and groundwater wells, to ensure that the community has adequate water, even after a period of dry years, through a combination of water supplies and water conservation measures. The county is serviced by 11 purveyors of domestic and industrial water, most of which is through surface water supplies from the East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) and the Contra Costa Water District (CCWD). EBMUD provides drinking water for 1.4 million customers in Contra Costa and Alameda counties over a 331-square-mile area. The EBMUD service area for drinking water in Contra Costa County covers western and central portions of the county, as shown on Figure PFS-2 in the Public Facilities and Services Element. CCWD provides treated and untreated water to a population of 500,000 in central and eastern Contra Costa County. In addition to EBMUD and CCWD, several smaller water providers serve the county, including incorporated communities, community services districts, and private suppliers. Approximately 90 percent of EBMUD’s water supply begins at the Mokelumne River watershed in the Sierra Nevada and extends 90 miles to the East Bay, passing through the Central Valley and Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. The Mokelumne Aqueducts convey the Mokelumne River supply to local storage and treatment facilities in Contra Costa and Alameda B-26 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix counties. After treatment, water is distributed to the incorporated cities and unincorporated communities in the East Bay that EBMUD serves. The primary source of water for CCWD is the Central Valley Project (CVP), a federally owned system of reservoirs and canals. The water supplied by the CVP originates from rivers in the Sierra Nevada and Klamath Mountains, primarily the American, Sacramento, Stanislaus, and Trinity Rivers. The water from these rivers flows into the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers, eventually finding its way into the Delta. Other water providers in Contra Costa County purchase water from EBMUD or CCWD, source water from the Delta or other surface supplies using their own water rights, or pump groundwater. Potential Changes to Drought in Future Years Drought is different than many of the other natural hazards in that it is not a distinct event and usually has a slow onset. Drought can severely impact a region both physically and economically, affecting different sectors in different ways and with varying intensities. Based on historical information, the occurrence of drought in California, including Contra Costa County, is cyclical, driven by weather patterns. Drought has occurred in the past and will occur in the future. Although droughts are a regular feature of California’s climate, scientists expect that climate change will lead to more frequent and intense droughts statewide. Overall, precipitation levels are expected to stay similar, and may even increase in some places. However, the state’s current data say that there will be more years with extreme levels of precipitation, both high and low, as a result of climate change. This is expected to cause more frequent and intense droughts compared to historical norms. Higher air temperatures are expected to increase evaporation, causing more water loss from lakes and reservoirs, exacerbating drought conditions. Reduced winter precipitation levels and warmer temperatures have greatly decreased the size of the Sierra Nevada snowpack (i.e., the volume of accumulated snow), which in turn makes less fresh water available for communities throughout California, including the imported water supply for EBMUD and CCWD. Continued decline in the Sierra Nevada snowpack volume is expected, which may lead to lower volumes of available imported water. More precipitation is expected to fall as rain instead of snow, and the snow that does fall wi ll melt earlier, reducing the Sierra Nevada spring snowpack by as much as 70 to 90 percent. How much snowpack will be lost depends in part on future precipitation patterns, the projections for which remain uncertain. However, even under wetter climate projections, the loss of snowpack would pose potential water shortage issues and exacerbate drought conditions. As the population in the county continues to grow, so will the demand for water. However, EBMUD and CCWD both consider their water supplies adequate to meet projected water needs through the year 2045. Extreme Heat Extreme heat occurs when temperatures rise significantly above normal levels; it is defined as a daytime temperature that exceeds the 90th percentile of the historic average temperature for that date. Extreme heat is a relative term, and different temperatures in different parts of Contra Costa County qualify as extreme heat events because people and buildings accustomed to cooler average temperatures may be less prepared for extreme heat events. For example, an extreme heat day in Rodeo is when temperatures reach 93 degrees Fahrenheit (oF), while in Alamo it is 97oF, and in Knightsen it is 102oF.. Health impacts are the primary concern with this hazard, though economic impacts are also an issue. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recognize extreme heat as a substantial public health concern. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix B-27 Historically, NOAA data indicate that about 175 Americans die from summer heat each year, although this number has increased in recent years. From 2004 to 2018, studies by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services indicate that there is an average of 702 deaths annually that are directly or indirectly linked to extreme heat. Following a record-breaking heat wave in 2006, over 16,000 emergency room visits, more than 1,100 hospitalizations, and at least 140 deaths were reported. As heat events are projected to become more frequent and last longer, preparing for the public health challenges they pose is critical. In 2019, Contra Costa County reported an extreme heat event from June 9th to 11th. The combination of high pressure and strong offshore flow resulted in an early season heat wave across the Bay Area. Multiple daily records were broken across the region due to the heat. Three fatalities were reported: one person died as a direct result of heat-related illness, and two others drowned while attempting to cool down during the heat wave. In 2021, Contra Costa County reported an extreme heat event from July 9th to 11th. Daytime highs rose above 100°F, with locations across the East Bay up to 110°F. Overnight lows remained warm, particularly across higher elevations, where temperatures were between 70°F and 80°F in the early mornings. There were no reported fatalities from this heat event. Extreme heat events are dangerous because people exposed to extreme heat can suffer a number of heat-related illnesses, including heat cramps, 6 Huang, J., H. Akbari, and H. Taha. 1990. The Wind-Shielding and Shading Effects of Trees on Residential Heating and Cooling Requirements. ASHRAE Winter Meeting, American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air - Conditioning Engineers. Atlanta, Georgia. 7 Kurn, D., S. Bretz, B. Huang, and H. Akbari. 1994. The Potential for Reducing Urban Air Temperatures and Energy Consumption through Vegetative Cooling. ACEEE Summer Study on Energy Efficiency in Buildings, heat exhaustion, and (most severely) heat stroke. As reflected in the Vulnerability Assessment, seniors, small children, persons with chronic illnesses and disabilities, , and those with limited mobility are particularly susceptible to heat. Seniors and individuals below the poverty level are the most vulnerable to extreme heat. Nursing homes and elder-care facilities are especially vulnerable to extreme heat events if power outages occur and air conditioning is not available. In addition, individuals below the poverty level may be at increased risk from extreme heat if use of air conditioning is not affordable. Areas with lower extreme heat thresholds are not necessarily at lower risk, because persons and community assets accustomed to cooler temperatures may be less prepared for extreme heat events. Outdoor workers in construction or landscaping are also much more exposed to the elements than most people, so they are more susceptible to extreme heat conditions and the potential illnesses associated with very high temperatures. Very high temperatures can harm plants and animals that are not well adapted to them. Extreme heat can increase the temperature of water in lakes, streams, creeks, and other water bodies, especially during drought events when water levels are lower. In some cases, water temperatures may exceed comfortable levels for several plants and animals, causing ecological harm. Trees and other vegetation in the natural and urban environment help to lower surface and air temperatures by 2°F to 9°F..6, 7 American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy. Pacific Grove, California. B-28 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix Indirectly, extreme heat puts more stress on power lines, causing them to run less efficiently. The heat also causes more demand for electricity (usually to run air conditioning units), and in combination with the stress on the power lines, may lead to brownouts and blackouts and associated health and economic impacts. Wildfire risk increases as vegetation dries out. Damage to roadways, bridges, and other transportation infrastructure may also occur. An example occurred in Contra Costa County in June 2022, when extreme heat buckled BART tracks, causing a derailment. Over 36,000 homes, or 57 percent of the housing stock in the unincorporated county, were constructed prior to 1980; they are unlikely to have air conditioning and may lack effective insulation. Therefore, people living in these homes, especially vulnerable populations, are at higher risk for heat-related illnesses from extreme heat events. To help provide relief from the heat, the County opens public libraries during extreme heat days and heat waves. These air-conditioned community spaces provide essential cool spaces for vulnerable populations. Potential Changes to Extreme Heat in Future Years Extreme heat tends to occur on an annual basis and is likely to continue occurring annually. While the western portions of Contra Costa County close to San Francisco Bay generally experience cooler temperatures than the eastern portions of the county, high temperatures throughout the county will continue to be a common occurrence. Overall, Contra Costa County is expected to see an increase in average daily high temperatures. Depending on the future severity of climate change, the State’s Cal-Adapt database indicates the annual average maximum temperature is expected to increase from a historical annual average of 71.1°F to an average of up to 75.8°F by the middle of the century (2035 to 2064), and an average of up to 79.0°F by the end of the century (2070 to 2099). Figure HS-13 shows the average temperature forecast in Contra Costa County for the end of the century. Although the temperature increases may appear modest, the projected high temperatures are substantially greater than historical norms. These This page intentionally left blank. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix B-29 increases also make it more likely that an above-average high temperature will cross the extreme heat threshold. The warmer temperatures brought on by climate change are likely to cause an increase in extreme heat events, increasing the risk of death from dehydration, heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heart attack, stroke, and respiratory distress. By the end of the century, the county is projected to experience an annual average of 18 to 30 extreme heat days per year. Severe Weather Severe weather is generally any destructive weather event, but usually occurs in Contra Costa County as localized storms that bring heavy rain, hail, thunderstorms, and strong winds. Severe weather is usually caused by intense storm systems, although certain types of strong winds can occur without a storm. The types of dangers posed by severe weather vary widely and may include injuries or deaths, damage to buildings and structures, power outages, fallen trees, and roads and railways blocked by debris. In addition, lightning from these storms can strike objects and ignite wildfires and structure fires that can damage buildings and endanger people. Severe weather may also include tornadoes, although they are uncommon in Contra Costa County; only four have been recorded in the county since 1950. A relatively common weather pattern that brings southwest winds and heavy rain to California is often referred to as an atmospheric river. Atmospheric rivers are long, narrow regions in the atmosphere that transport most of the water vapor carried away from the tropics. These columns of vapor move with the weather, carrying large amounts of water vapor and strong winds. When the atmospheric rivers make landfall, they often release this water vapor in the form of rain or snow, causing heavy rains that can lead to flooding and mudslide events. High winds, often accompanying severe storms, can cause significant property damage, threaten public safety, and have adverse economic impacts from business closures and power loss. High winds, as defined by the National Weather Service, are sustained wind speeds of 40 miles per hour (mph) or higher lasting one hour or longer, or wind gusts of 58 mph or higher for any duration. These winds may occur as part of a seasonal climate pattern or in relation to other severe weather events, such as thunderstorms. Contra Costa County experiences high wind on an annual basis, although some high wind events have been particularly severe. On January 4, 2008, Contra Costa County reported 110 mph winds in the East Bay Hills and Diablo Range. During this high wind event, a very strong cyclone slammed into the San Francisco and Monterey Bay areas, bringing rain, high winds, record high surf, and coastal flooding. Hundreds of thousands of residences and businesses were without power, some for several days, due to high winds toppling power lines. The storm caused millions of dollars in property damage due to falling trees hitting cars and structures as well as damage to roads due to heavy rain. In another event on December 11, 2014, Contra Costa County reported 83 mph winds. This atmospheric river event brought heavy rain and gusty winds with a strong winter storm that impacted the Bay Area for several days. Contra Costa County and the greater Bay Area experienced a series of atmospheric rivers in winter 2023. Flooding was widespread throughout the county, with landslides in several steeper sloped areas of the county. All wind events pose several different types of threats. By themselves, the winds pose a threat to the health of people and structures in the county. Dust and plant pollen blown by the wind can create respiratory problems. The winds can blow roofs off buildings and cause tree limbs to fall on people and property. High winds also increase the threat of wildfires. Winds may dry out brush and forest areas, increasing the fuel load in fire-prone areas. Winds may spark wildfires by knocking down power lines or causing them to arc. If wildfires do start, high winds can push flames quickly into new areas, B-30 Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix contributing to rapid spread and making them harder to control. This can also affect the air quality in Contra Costa County and may disrupt regional infrastructure networks. Public Safety Power Shutoff Events Electricity utilities throughout California, including Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), have begun to occasionally “de-energize,” or turn off the electricity for power lines that run through areas where there is an elevated fire risk. This is intended to reduce the risk of power lines sparking or being damaged and starting a wildfire. These events, called public safety power shutoff (PSPS) events, result in a loss of power for customers served by the affected power lines. A PSPS event may occur at any time of the year, but they usually occur during high wind events and dry conditions. PSPS events may be limited to specific communities or they may affect broad swaths of the state. In October 2019, PG&E conducted one large-scale PSPS event, shutting off power to approximately 740,000 customers in 35 counties across the state, including customers in Contra Costa County. Several PSPS events also occurred in 2020. While smaller, these events still affected thousands of PG&E customers across the county. PSPS events can impact emergency management activities. A loss of power can make it more difficult for homes or businesses to receive emergency notifications if needed. PSPS events can also create vulnerabilities for community members that lack backup power supplies and depend on electricity for heating or cooling homes and buildings, lighting, and internet. PSPS events may also be harmful to people who depend on electrically powered medical devices. Additionally, community members may be faced with economic hardships and be deprived of important services, such as grocery stores, gas stations, and banks/ATMs. Traffic lights and other traffic- control systems may not work, which can complicate evacuation and may hinder emergency response. Although critical public health and safety facilities often have backup generators, the loss of power may also disable other key infrastructure systems. Potential Changes to Severe Weather in Future Years According to historical hazard data, severe weather is an annual occurrence in Contra Costa County. Damage and disaster declarations related to severe weather have occurred and will continue to occur in the future. Heavy rain and thunderstorms are the most frequent type of severe weather in the county. Wind and lightning often accompany these storms and have caused damage in the past. However, actual damage associated with the primary effects of severe weather has been limited. It is the secondary hazards, such as floods and fire, that have had the greatest impact on the county. Thunderstorms, high winds, and lightning can each have localized impacts on infrastructure, properties, and public safety. Transportation, including freight movement, faces increased congestion when severe storms occur. Climate change is expected to cause an increase in intense rainfall and strong storm systems. This means that Contra Costa County could see more intense weather resulting from these storms in the coming years and decades, although such an increase may not affect all forms of severe weather. While average annual rainfall may increase only slightly, climate change is expected to cause an increase in the number of years with intense levels of precipitation. Heavy rainfall can increase the frequency and severit y of other hazards, including flooding. Public Review Draft Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan – Health and Safety Element Technical Appendix B-31 Endnotes ATTACHMENT H STAFF PRESENTATION FOR SEPTEMBER 10, 2024, BOARD OF SUPERVISORS MEETING County Board of Supervisors Meeting on Draft General Plan and Climate Action and Adaptation PlanSeptember 10, 2024 2Envision Contra CostaGeneral Plan Zoning OrdinanceClimate Action and Adaptation PlanEnvironmental Impact Report 3General Plan ThemesCommunity HealthEconomic DevelopmentEnvironmental JusticeSustainability 4General Plan ElementsStronger CommunitiesLand UseTransportationHousingConservation, Open Space, and Working LandsPublic Facilities and ServicesHealth and SafetyGrowth Management 5Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP)»The County’s strategic plan to address climate change•Reduce GHG emissions through 2045 and beyond•Improve climate resilience and adaptation•Promote equity on climate issues•Demonstrate County leadership»Meets State GHG reduction targets for 2030 and 2045 »Implements some aspects of the General Plan 6CAAP StrategiesClean and Efficient Built EnvironmentNo Waste Contra CostaReduce Water Use & Increase Drought ResilienceClean Transportation NetworkResilient Communities and Natural InfrastructureClimate EquityLeadershipImplementation 7General Plan & CAAP Relationship»General Plan creates a high-level framework for the CAAP»CAAP helps mitigate future development allowed by GP»Land use aspects of the CAAP’s strategies are grounded in the GP and repeated in the CAAP•CAAP includes cross-references to General Plan policies and actions»CAAP addresses County operations in more detail 8Public Review Process»Publish Draft General Plan and CAAP October 2023»Publish Draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR) Feb. 2024»Public comment period: Oct. 17, 2023 – Apr. 22, 2024»Digital and in-person activities:•2 webinars•5 district open houses•2 meetings of the Board of Supervisors or Board subcommittee •13 Municipal Advisory Council meetings•4 County committees and commissions meetings•12 community group meetings•Verbal and written comments (email and online comment platform)»Over 300 attendees at events with attendee counts 9Public Review Process»Promotion materials and channels:•Over 14 eblasts to 1,277 Envision Contra Costa mailing list subscribers•Supervisor’s eblasts and newsletters reaching over 20,000 subscribers countywide•12 social media posts with almost 6,000 views•Video series with over 1,300 views•Nextdoor posts about video series (almost 600,000 followers): viewed by 181,364 users•Twitter/X posts about video series (over 23,000 followers): viewed by 10,160 users •2-page user guide on draft plans and comment process•12-page detailed booklet on draft plans•Spanish language presentation 10Public Review Process: Written Comments»Comments received via online document platform Konveio and via email»39 comments from 19 individuals submitted through Konveio on the Draft General Plan»24 comments from 14 individuals submitted through Konveio on the Draft CAAP»84 comment letters and emails from individuals, public agencies, and NGOs on the Draft General Plan and CAAP 11Public Review Process: Video Series 12Overview of Proposed Changes to the General Plan»Refinements would largely retain the published draft with improvements»Refinements based on:•Public comments•New information available since publishing draft documents •Content clarifications»Consistency with Climate Action and Adaptation Plan•Considered comments on both documents•Updated name•Suspension of all-electric reach code 13»Stronger Communities Element•Community Profiles refinements•New action to nominate the Rodeo Refinery and surrounding industrial areas as a Priority Production Area»Land Use Element•Refinements to the land use map•New action to quantify the acreage designated for urban land uses at least every five years to maintain consistency with 65/35 standard of 2006 Measure L (Urban Limit Line measure)•New background text and policy about maintaining Priority Development AreasOverview of Proposed Changes to the General Plan 14»Transportation Element•New action related to bikeway and sidewalk installation, striping, and related infrastructure considerations for the Active Transportation Plan and Capital Road Improvement and Preservation Program »Conservation, Open Space, and Working Lands Element•Finetuning of policy language related to trees, wetlands, creeks, streams, and other important ecological resources •New policy related to wildlife-friendly lighting•New action related to wildlife crossings in future road projectsOverview of Proposed Changes to the General Plan 15»Health and Safety Element•New policy to encourage industrial modernization projects that support State energy and climate goals and improve safety and air quality•Clarifications to Policy HS-P7.1, calling for denial of entitlements for projects creating additional units in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones and to discourage them in High Fire Hazard Severity Zones•Revision to Policy HS-P9.9, calling for denial of entitlements for construction of new large-scale facilities that treat, store or dispose hazardous waste from off-site sources and negatively impact Impacted Communities Overview of Proposed Changes to the General Plan 16Overview of Proposed Changes to the CAAP»New name: Climate Action and Adaptation Plan»Changes based on suspension of all-electric reach code in February 2024•Built Environment Strategies BE-1 and BE-2 now anticipate a code that requires high energy efficiency performance, either all-electric OR mixed fuel•Based on Board of Supervisors direction on June 4, 2024•Changes to strategy language and GHG reduction projections 17Overview of Proposed Changes to the CAAP»Revisions to GHG reduction projections for zero-emission vehicles and related equipment•Consistency with State projections as modeled in 2022 Scoping Plan•Reflected in assumptions in Appendix B»Revisions to strategies to ensure CAAP implementation supports State and regional modeling and projections•Zero-NOx water- and space-heaters•Increasing EV-charging infrastructure•Complete streets•Micromobility for low-income residents•Reduced transit fare for some residents 18Overview of Proposed Changes to the CAAP»Additional text to clarify or correct information•Explanation of why stationary sources of emissions have been excluded from CAAP•New definitions to the glossary and additional clarifying text to explain data tables, technical terms, and methods •Clarifying language about carbon sequestration»New Appendix D to discuss progress in implementing strategies in 2015 Climate Action Plan 19Implementation»General Plan Action Program: Track implementation through 2045•Contains all actions, organized by Element•Identifies County departments and partner agencies responsible•Proposes a timeframe for completion•Estimates a cost range for implementation»CAAP Action Items will also be tracked, reported »Will be prepared following approval of the General Plan and subsequently presented to the Board 20Environmental Impact Report»Comment period: February 3 to April 8, 2024»14 comment letters from agencies and organizations•State agencies •Cities •Public utility and service districts•Environmental, community, industry, and trade organizations and associations »Verbal comments received at Zoning Administrator comment hearing on March 18, 2024 »Some comments relate to the General Plan and CAAP 21General Plan Fiscal Impact Analysis »New annual revenues minus new annual service expenditures for new development at current levels of service»Development assumptions consistent with EIR»Estimated 2045 revenue of $54M vs. 2045 expenditures of $51M»Slight projected net annual fiscal surplus 22CAAP Cost Analysis »Analysis focuses on financial implications of the CAAP for County budget»Many actions will require significant resources for full implementation; however, the financial implications for the County are limited because listed actions are already being undertaken or required, can be self-funded, or will be undertaken only when new external funding can be secured»Doing nothing or reacting in an emergency will be more expensive 23Next Steps»General Plan and Climate Action and Adaptation Plan•Fall 2024: County Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors adoption hearings»Environmental Impact Report•Publish Final EIR responding to comments on the Draft EIR•Certify EIR at fall 2024 adoption hearings 24Planning Commission RecommendationGeneral Plan:»Include the Franklin Canyon area in the Alhambra Valley, Reliez Valley, and Briones Community ProfileClimate Action and Adaptation Plan: »Develop a comprehensive funding strategy for the CAAP»Incentivize and increase public-private partnershipsStaff concurs with these recommendations. 25Recommendation »Provide direction to prepare the final drafts of the Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan and Contra Costa County Climate Action and Adaptation Plan 2024 Update and bring these plans back to the Board of Supervisors for adoption, as recommended by the County Planning Commission and Director of the Department of Conservation and Development. County Board of Supervisors Meeting on Draft General Plan and Climate Action and Adaptation PlanSeptember 10, 2024 From: Adêle Ho < Date: Monday, September 9, 2024 at 6:10 PM To: Clerk of the Board <ClerkOfTheBoard@cob.cccounty.us> Cc: John Gioia <John.Gioia@bos.cccounty.us>, Will Nelson <Will.Nelson@dcd.cccounty.us>, Joann Pavlinec <joapav@gmail.com>, Elinor Blake <eblake@igc.org> Subject: 9/10/24 Board of Supervisors Agenda Item D.3 Hello. I may not be able to attend the BOS meeting, and in case not I would like to provide my comments on Agenda Item D.3, regarding the General Plan Update… I and other residents of the East Richmond Heights community have worked closely with County Planning Staff and our Supervisor’s office to develop the proposed language to address the community’s concerns and goals for this neighborhood. We recommend adoption of the language proposed in the staff report included in the agenda packet. We greatly appreciate the accessibility and willingness of County staff to listen to our concerns, and to work with us to craft language that adequately addresses those concerns as we head into the future. Adêle Ho, P.E. From: Joann Pavlinec Sent: Monday, September 9, 2024 10:04 PM To: Clerk of the Board <ClerkOfTheBoard@cob.cccounty.us> Cc: John Gioia <John.Gioia@bos.cccounty.us>; Will Nelson <Will.Nelson@dcd.cccounty.us>; adelehope ;Elinor Blake <eblake@igc.org> Subject: Agenda Item D.3 General Plan Update Hello, At the August 21, 2024 East Richmond Heights Municipal Advisory Council (ERHMAC) meeting, the ERHMAC and community reviewed and discussed the proposed edits to the East Richmond Heights Profile in the Draft General Plan Update that specifically address potential future development and current issues in ERH. The ERHMAC unanimously recommended incorporation of all the proposed East Richmond Heights Profile edits, and new Policies and Actions into the final 2045 General Plan. The proposed Policy and Action additions and modifications were drafted by the MAC and ERH Heights residents over several meetings with County Planning Staff guidance and input. These Policy and Action additions and edits are supported by the larger community. We recommend adoption of the language proposed in the staff report included in the agenda packet. Thank you, Joann Pavlinec ERHMAC 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2875 Name: Status:Type:Discussion Item Passed File created:In control:8/29/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:CONSIDER introducing Ordinance No 2024-17, amending the 2022 California Energy code to increase energy efficiency standards for certain newly constructed buildings; waiving reading; and fixing October 1, 2024, for a public hearing to consider adoption. (Demian Hardman-Saldana, Department of Conservation and Development) Attachments:, , , , Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass 5:0 To:Board of Supervisors From:John Kopchik, Director, Conservation and Development Report Title:Introduce Ordinance No. 2024-17, adopting and amending the 2022 California Energy Code to increase the energy efficiency standards for certain newly constructed buildings ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: 1. INTRODUCE Ordinance No 2024-17, adopting and amending the 2022 California Energy Code to increase energy efficiency standards for newly constructed residential buildings, hotels, offices, and retail buildings; WAIVE reading, and FIX October 1, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. for a public hearing to consider adoption of the ordinance and adoption of findings of local conditions to justify construction standards stricter than those imposed by Health and Safety Code section 19180 et seq. 2. DIRECT the Clerk of the Board to publish notice of the hearing pursuant to Government Code section 6066. FISCAL IMPACT: None. BACKGROUND: As recommended by the Sustainability Committee, on June 4, 2024, the Board of Supervisors (Board) directed staff to develop an ordinance amending the County building code to increase the energy efficiency standards for newly constructed residential buildings, hotels, offices, and retail buildings to meet the County’s 2024 Climate Action and Adaptation Plan goals. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 5 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2875,Version:1 Health and Safety Code sections 17958.5 and 18941.5 authorize a local agency to modify the 2022 California Energy Code and establish more restrictive building standards if the local agency finds that the changes and modifications are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, topographical, or environmental conditions. California Public Resources Code section 25402.1(h)(2) further authorizes a local agency to modify the California Energy Code if the local agency finds that the proposed standards are cost-effective and the California Energy Commission (CEC) determines that the proposed standards will require the diminution of energy consumption levels permitted by the 2022 California Energy Code. The proposed Ordinance No 2024-17 (attached) would amend the 2022 California Energy Code due to local climatic, geographical, topographical, and environmental conditions. The attached findings describe the local climatic, geographical, topographical, and environmental conditions that make the more restrictive standards reasonably necessary. The attached findings also include the required findings related to energy savings and cost-effectiveness based on several cost-effectiveness studies prepared as part of the Statewide Reach Codes Program. The referenced cost-effectiveness studies are also attached. The proposed substantive changes to the 2022 California Energy Code are described below. Modifications to the 2022 California Energy Code The proposed ordinance requires a higher (or more stringent) energy efficiency standard than is required in the current 2022 California Energy Code for newly constructed single-family residential buildings, detached accessory dwelling units, multi-family residential buildings, hotel, office, and retail buildings. Building permit applicants will be required to demonstrate compliance with this standard by achieving the required Source Energy score on the Energy Code analysis submitted as part of their permit application. For newly constructed non-residential buildings (office, retail, and hotel) and multi-family residential buildings, the 2022 California Energy Code requires that an Energy Budget be calculated. The Energy Budget approximates the projected energy consumption for a non-residential building or multi-family building proposed for construction. The Energy Budget is calculated by the sum of two separate metrics, Source Energy and Time-Dependent Valuation (TDV) Energy. The Source Energy metric accounts for both the energy consumed on site, plus energy used in its production and delivery. Source Energy is also a reasonable proxy for greenhouse gas emissions. Accordingly, staff identified Source Energy as the metric for which to impose increased efficiency requirements. For newly constructed single-family residential buildings and accessory dwelling units (ADUs), the Energy Budget is also based on Source Energy and TDV Energy. However, the separate metrics are calculated differently for these building types. For single-family buildings and ADUs, Source Energy is calculated by reference to the Source Energy Design Rating, or EDR1 score. The EDR1 score considers the building’s energy efficiency (based on the efficiency features of the building’s space heating, cooling, ventilation, and water heating) and the proposed building’s demand flexibility (including the building’s solar photovoltaic system, battery storage system, precooling, and other demand-responsive measures). Staff identified Source Energy Design Rating (i.e., the EDR1 score) as the metric for which to impose increased efficiency requirements for single-family buildings and ADUs. Due to climactic effects, the required energy performance standard (e.g., Source Energy or EDR1) differs depending on the climate zone (location) in which the new building is constructed. Contra Costa County has two climate zones. Climate Zone 3 generally encompasses West County, and Climate Zone 12 generally encompasses Central and East County. The proposed ordinance would: (1)Require a Source Energy Design Rating Compliance Margin (i.e. a lower EDR1 score) resulting in a CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 5 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2875,Version:1 stricter energy efficiency requirement than is required in the current state energy code for all newly constructed single-family residential buildings and newly constructed detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs), with the exception of ADUs located in Climate Zone 3 (see exceptions listed below for explanation). (2)Require a Source Energy Compliance Margin (i.e. a lower source energy score) resulting in stricter energy efficiency requirement than is required in the current state energy code for all newly constructed multi-family buildings, hotels, offices, and retail buildings. (3)Impose additional electric readiness requirements for hotels, offices, and retail buildings that are designed for natural gas infrastructure. The Source Energy Design Rating Compliance Margin for single-family buildings and ADUs, and Source Energy Compliance Margin for multi-family buildings, hotels, offices, and retail buildings, are calculated relative to those same metrics as calculated for the required Energy Budget for the standard design building under the Energy Code. The compliance margins for each building type proposed in the ordinance are provided in Exhibit A of this report. Exhibit A also includes a summary of the cost-effective design options that correspond with the compliance margins proposed for each building type. Below are exceptions to the compliance margins proposed in the ordinance: ·Detached Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) located in Climate Zone 3. The currently available cost- effectiveness studies do not demonstrate that it is cost-effective to require a higher energy efficiency standard for detached ADUs located in Climate Zone 3. ·Newly constructed buildings that do not require a Photovoltaic (PV) system (i.e. solar panels). There are some instances where smaller homes, especially ADUs, may be exempt under the current energy code from being required to install a PV system. It would not be cost-effective to require a higher energy efficiency standard for instances where the building code does not require a PV system be installed. ·Nonresidential occupancies (hotel, office, and retail) designed with single zone conditioning systems. It has not yet been proven to be cost-effective to require a higher energy efficiency standard for non- residential buildings that have single zone conditioning systems. ·A community shared solar electric generation system, or other renewable electric generation system, or community shared battery storage system which provides dedicated power may offset part or all of the Energy Budget standards for a proposed building. This exception encourages the installation of these systems, which is consistent with the current intent of the building code. ·Additions and alternations. The reach code provisions do not apply to additions, alterations, or repairs. However, if the majority of an existing building is damaged or demolished and then reconstructed, the reconstructed structured would be considered a new building and would be subject to the provisions of this ordinance. The ordinance also includes an electric readiness requirement for nonresidential systems (hotel, office and retail buildings). Where new hotel, office or retail building types are proposed to install gas or propane, the construction drawings would be required to include routing of conduit from the equipment using gas or propane to the point of interconnection with the electrical service. The installation of electrical conduit at the location of gas or propane equipment will facilitate the replacement of such appliances with electric-powered equipment at a future date at the discretion of the property owner. County staff recommends that this additional requirement be included for the nonresidential building types that are required to have a higher energy efficiency standard by the proposed ordinance (hotel, office and retail). This provision is expected to have a nominal cost to a developer and would reduce costs for property owners if they choose to change their gas or propane equipment to electric in the future. The current Energy Code already includes similar requirements for all residential buildings, and this standard is expected to be required for nonresidential development in the 2025 Building CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 3 of 5 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2875,Version:1 Code (effective January 1, 2026). The ordinance has been designed to allow property owners and developers flexibility in their building design to meet the higher efficiency standards proposed. The ordinance does not include any requirements that home appliances such as stoves, clothes dryers, and clothes washers be electric. Additionally, it does not require any ancillary building uses to be electric, such as for pool heating or outdoor cooking equipment. Lastly, the proposed ordinance would delete the County all-electric requirement for newly constructed buildings. On February 27, 2024, the Board of Supervisors suspended enforcement of the all-electric requirement and directed staff to develop alternate regulations aimed at achieving the County’s climate action goals. The proposed ordinance is a result of those efforts. Local Impact on Energy Resources and Utility Service This ordinance will not create difficulties for new buildings receiving electrical service because it will not significantly increase the electrical service requirements of new buildings compared to existing statewide requirements. This ordinance will have less impact on electrical service requirements for new buildings compared to the County’s all-electric building ordinance, which is no longer being enforced, because this ordinance will allow for mixed fuel buildings and will provide developers with greater flexibility in designing the energy requirements of buildings. This ordinance provides home builders with choices and options for complying within the conventional electrical service requirements for new homes. These include options using both gas and electric powered appliances and devices within the home, as well as renewable energy generation (such as solar panels) and energy storage (batteries). Nearly all new single-family residences constructed within the County are constructed with an electrical service of 200 amps or less, which is standard practice and is routinely accommodated by PG&E. The proposed ordinance will not change this. Home builders will be able to comply with the requirements of this ordinance using a standard electrical service of 200 amps or less. Under current conditions, a very small portion of homes built within the County experience challenges receiving utility electrical service due to utility capacity issues. The circumstances leading to such challenges include exceptionally large homes, homes with unusually large electricity needs resulting from the uses on the property, and homes in very remote undeveloped areas where it is difficult for the utility to extend service. Such conditions exist today and will continue to exist in the foreseeable future. However, this will not be affected by the proposed ordinance because the ordinance does not impact the factors that create these challenges. Separate from electrical capacity constraints, in recent years, many developers have reported increased wait times in scheduling utility connections for newly constructed buildings of all types. It is now taking PG&E much longer to provide personnel on site to perform the necessary connection services than it used to. The scheduling delays associated with connecting utility electrical service that many construction projects are currently experiencing will not be affected by this ordinance because such delays are driven by factors that are not related to this ordinance. Expected Impact on Construction within the County The amendments to the Energy Code included in the proposed ordinance have been determined to be cost- effective by studies recognized and accepted by the California Energy Commission and are not expected to have a significant impact on construction activity within the County. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 4 of 5 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2875,Version:1 Compliance with the requirements of this ordinance could in some cases slightly increase the up-front cost of constructing covered buildings, perhaps by 1 or 2 percent (precise costs will vary based on numerous variables, including building type and design and specific product and materials choices). For example, the measures required for a single-family residence to comply could add several thousand dollars to the initial cost of construction. However, based on the conclusion of multiple cost-effectiveness studies, these up-front costs are expected to be recovered in the form of monthly utility bill savings over a period shorter than the expected life of building. Therefore, the requirements of this ordinance are expected to have no net life cycle cost for new buildings and are not expected to significantly impact the economics of constructing new buildings. The Energy Code amendments proposed in this ordinance are expected to be included in the 2025 California Energy Code, which will become effective statewide on January 1, 2026. The construction industry is aware of this and is already adjusting its practices to accommodate these changes. This is reflected in increased use of all-electric construction, electric appliances using heat pumps, solar panels and battery storage across California and within the County. The construction industry is already anticipating the code changes included in the proposed ordinance. California Energy Commission Approval and Operative Dates Modifications to the California Energy Code, and the associated findings, must be submitted to the California Energy Commission (CEC) for review and approval before the modifications take effect. If adopted by the Board, staff will transmit the adopted ordinance and findings to the CEC. Included as part of the findings to the CEC will be all appropriate cost-effectiveness studies required to substantiate cost-effectiveness to meet CEC approval. Staff has worked very closely with the Statewide Codes and Standards Program technical consultants in preparing the ordinance to meet the CEC standards for the proposed ordinance. The CEC has informed staff that the review and approval process is expected to take approximately 60 days. As drafted, the ordinance will become operative on January 1, 2025, or upon approval by the CEC, whichever is later. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: The County would likely not meet its greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets proposed in its draft 2024 Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (anticipated adoption in fall 2024). CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 5 of 5 powered by Legistar™ Proposed Energy Code Amendment to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions from New Buildings Board of Supervisors September 10, 2024 Demian Hardman-Saldana Department of Conservation and Development Contra Costa County 925-655-2816 · Demian.Hardman@dcd.cccounty.us 1 Today’s Presentation Ordinance Adoption Process Ordinance Overview Energy Resources & Cost- Effectiveness 2 3 Ordinance Process 2/27/2024 •All-Electric Ordinance Suspended 5/20/2024 •Sustainability Committee Recommended option(s) 6/4/2024 •BOS Authorized DCD to prepare Ordinance for More Stringent Energy Code to Meet Climate Goals 9/10/24 •Introduce Ordinance to BOS to set public hearing to consider adoption 10/1/24 •Ordinance to BOS for adoption 1/1/25 •Ordinance becomes operative pending California Energy Commission Approval On February 27, 2024, the Board of Supervisors suspended the all-electric ordinance in response to the to the Berkeley decision The proposed ordinance is planned for an operative date of January 1, 2025 4 Proposed Ordinance Purpose: To replace emissions reductions lost from the suspended all-electric ordinance so the County can meet its 2024 Climate Action and Adaptation Plan goals. Proposed Action: Amend the 2022 California Building Code to increase energy efficiency standards for the design and construction of newly constructed residential buildings, hotels, offices, and retail buildings with an operative date of January 1, 2025 12 3 5 Energy Code Climate Zones 6 Building Type Climate Zone 3 West County Energy Improvement Margin Climate Zone 12 Central/East County Energy Improvement Margin Cost-effective Design Options Single-Family Homes, Duplexes and Townhomes1 9 EDR1 Points 11 EDR1 Points Install second heat pump system or install battery storage and additional solar. Detached Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)1 Not yet proven cost-effective. No change recommended. 6.6 EDR1 Points Only for Climate Zone 12, install second heat pump system, or install battery storage and additional solar. Low-rise Multifamily (up to 3 habitable stories)2 10%11%More heat pump system(s), or install battery storage and/or additional solar. High-rise Multifamily Residential (4 or more habitable stories)2 4%4%Would need additional solar above current code requirement(s). Non-residential (Office, Retail, and Hotel)2 5%4%Would need additional efficiency above current code requirement(s). 1 Energy Design Rating (EDR1) - Rates the building energy efficiency based on hourly source energy use for the home measured in kBtu/ft2-yr. It includes energy use for the building envelope, indoor air quality (IAQ), HVAC, water heating and unregulated loads. The metric approximates the building’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to support California’s GHG reduction goals. 2 Source Energy (SE) - The log run marginal source energy of fossil fuels that are combusted as a result of building energy consumption considering the long-term effects of Commission-projected energy resource procurement. For a given hour, the value in that hour for each forecasted year is averaged to establish a lifetime average source energy. Proposed Ordinance Other Provisions & Exceptions 7 •Electric readiness in nonresidential new construction where gas is installed for hotel, office and retail buildings Other Provisions •Small homes exempt from installing solar under current code •Nonresidential new construction with single-zone conditioning systems •Projects with community solar and/or battery storage may use these systems to meet compliance •Additions and alterations Exceptions Impact on Energy Resources 8 •Proposed ordinance allows for flexible design options, including mixed fuel options. Gas appliances are allowable if the overall building design complies with energy requirements. •Newly constructed single-family homes are typically equipped with a 200-amp electrical service. This is the standard service from PG&E and will not be changed by the proposed ordinance. •PG&E interconnection delays currently being experienced by many new construction projects will not be affected by this ordinance. This ordinance is not expected to significantly increase the electrical service requirement for new buildings compared to existing requirements Cost -Effectiveness and Impacts on Construction 9 •Cost-effectiveness studies show that the requirements proposed in this ordinance allow for multiple cost-effective pathways. •Higher energy efficiency standards may increase up-front costs for constructing covered buildings –perhaps by 1-2% based on building design and materials selected. This increase will be offset by lifecycle energy bill savings. •The proposed energy code amendments are expected to be included in the 2025 California Energy Code (effective January 2026) and the construction industry is aware and currently adjusting its practices. This ordinance has cost-effective compliance pathways and is not expected to slow new development and construction in the County Questions? Contact: Demian Hardman-Saldana Principal Planner demian.hardman@dcd.cccounty.us P: 925-655-2816 10 Energy Code Compliance Margins for Proposed Building Energy Building Code Amendment 1 Energy Design Rating (EDR1) - Rates the building energy efficiency based on hourly source energy use for the home measured in kBtu/ft2-yr. It includes energy use for the building envelope, indoor air quality (IAQ), HVAC, water heating and unregulated loads. The metric approximates the building’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to support California’s GHG reduction goals. 2 Source Energy (SE) - The log run marginal source energy of fossil fuels that are combusted as a result of building energy consumption considering the long-term effects of Commission-projected energy resource procurement. For a given hour, the value in that hour for each forecasted year is averaged to establish a lifetime average source energy. Building Type Climate Zone 3, West County EDR11/ SE2 Margin Climate Zone 12, Central and East County EDR11/ SE2 Margin Cost-effective Design Options Single-Family Homes1 9 EDR1 Points 11 EDR1 Points Install second heat pump system or install battery storage and additional solar. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)1 Not yet proven cost-effective. No change recommended. 6.6 EDR1 Points Only for Climate Zone 12, Install second heat pump system, or install battery storage and additional solar. Low-rise Multifamily (up to 3 habitable stories)2 10% 11% More heat pump system(s) or install battery storage and/or additional solar. High-rise Multifamily Residential (4 or more habitable stories)2 4% 4% Would need additional solar above current code requirement(s). Non-residential (Office, Retail, and Hotel)2 5% 4% Would need additional efficiency above current code requirement(s). Exhibit A ORDINANCE NO. 2024-17 1 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-17 AMENDMENT TO THE 2022 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE TO INCREASE ENERGY EFFICIENCY STANDARDS FOR CERTAIN NEWLY CONSTRUCTED BUILDINGS The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors ordains as follows (omitting the parenthetical footnotes from the official text of the enacted or amended provisions of the County Ordinance Code): SECTION I. SUMMARY. This ordinance amends the 2022 California Energy Code to increase energy efficiency standards for the design and construction of newly constructed residential buildings, hotels, offices, and retail buildings. These requirements replace the all- electric building requirements previously included in Section 74-4.010 of the County Ordinance Code. This ordinance is adopted pursuant to Health and Safety Code sections 17922, 17958, 17958.5, 17958.7, and 18941.5, Public Resources Code section 25402.1(h)(2), and Government Code sections 50020 through 50022.10. SECTION II. Section 74-4.010 (Amendments to CEnC) of Chapter 74-4 (Modifications) of Division 74 (Building Code) of the County Ordinance Code is amended to read: 74-4.010 Amendments to CEnC. The 2022 California Energy Code ("CEnC") is amended by the changes, additions, and deletions set forth in this chapter and Division 72. Section numbers used below are those of the 2022 California Energy Code. (a) Section 120.11 (Electric Readiness Requirements for All Systems) is added to CEnC Subchapter 3 (Nonresidential, Hotel/Motel Occupancies, and Covered Processes – Mandatory Requirements), to read: 120.11 Electric Readiness Requirements for All Systems. For hotel, office, and retail building types, where nonresidential systems using gas or propane are installed, the construction drawings shall include routing of conduit from the equipment using gas or propane to the point of interconnection with the electrical service. (b) Section 140.1 (Performance Approach: Energy Budgets) of CEnC Subchapter 5 (Nonresidential and Hotel/Motel Occupancies – Performance and Prescriptive Compliance Approaches for Achieving Energy Efficiency) is amended to read: 140.1 Performance Approach: Energy Budgets. A building complies with the performance approach if both the following conditions are met: 1. The energy budget calculated for the proposed design building under subsection (b) is no greater than the energy budget calculated for the Standard Design Building under subsection (a). ORDINANCE NO. 2024-17 2 2. For hotel, office, and retail building types, the energy budget calculated for the proposed design building under subsection (b) must also have a Source Energy Compliance Margin, relative to the energy budget calculated for the Standard Design Building under subsection (a), of at least the value specified for the occupancy type and location in Table 140.1-A, below. Exception to Section 140.1(2). The Source Energy Compliance Margin specified in Table 140.1-A is not required when the building is conditioned with single zone space conditioning systems with direct expansion cooling with rated cooling capacity 240,000 Btu/hr or less and direct expansion or furnace heating at any rated heating capacity. (a) Energy budget for the Standard Design Building. The energy budget for the Standard Design Building is determined by applying the mandatory and prescriptive requirements to the proposed building design. The energy budget is the sum of the source energy and time-dependent valuation (TDV) energy for space-conditioning, indoor lighting, mechanical ventilation, photovoltaic (PV) and battery storage systems, service water heating and covered process loads. (b) Energy budget for the proposed design building. The energy budget for a proposed design building is determined by calculating the source energy and TDV energy for the proposed design building. The energy budget is the sum of the source energy and TDV energy for space- conditioning, indoor lighting, mechanical ventilation, photovoltaic (PV) and battery storage systems, service water heating, and covered process loads. Table 140.1-A SOURCE ENERGY COMPLIANCE MARGINS Occupancy Type Climate Zone Source Energy Compliance Margin Hotel 3 5% 12 4% Office 3 5% 12 4% Retail 3 5% 12 4% ORDINANCE NO. 2024-17 3 Exception to Section 140.1(b). A community shared solar electric generation system, or other renewable electric generation system, or community shared battery storage system, that provides dedicated power, utility energy reduction credits or payments for energy bill reductions to the permitted building, and is approved by the Energy Commission as specified in Title 24, Part 1, Section 10- 115, may offset part or all of the solar electric generation system or battery storage system TDV energy required to comply with the standards, as calculated according to methods established by the Commission in the Nonresidential ACM Reference Manual. (c) Calculation of energy budget. The TDV energy for both the Standard Design Building and the proposed design building shall be computed by compliance software certified for this use by the Commission. The processes for compliance software approval by the Commission are documented in the ACM Approval Manual. (c) Section 150.1(b) (Performance Standards), of CEnC Subchapter 8 (Single-Family Residential Buildings – Performance and Prescriptive Compliance Approaches) is amended to read: (b) Performance standards. A building complies with the performance standards if the energy consumption calculated for the proposed design building is no greater than the energy budget calculated for the Standard Design Building using Commission-certified compliance software as specified by the Alternative Calculation Methods Approval Manual. The building must also comply with the applicable requirements in subsections 1, 2, and 3, below. 1. Newly constructed buildings. The energy budget for newly constructed buildings is expressed in terms of the Energy Design Ratings, which are based on source energy and time-dependent valuation (TDV) energy. The Energy Design Rating 1 (EDR1) is based on source energy. The Energy Design Rating 2 (EDR2) is based on TDV energy and has two components, the Energy Efficiency Design Rating, and the Solar Electric Generation and Demand Flexibility Design Rating. The total Energy Design Rating shall account for both the Energy Efficiency Design Rating and the Solar Electric Generation and Demand Flexibility Design Rating. The proposed building shall separately comply with the Source Energy Design Rating, Energy Efficiency Design Rating, and the Total Energy Design Rating. Additionally, for a newly constructed building to comply with the performance standards, the proposed building must have a Source Energy Design Rating Compliance Margin, relative to the Source Energy Design Rating calculated for the Standard Design Building, of at least the value specified for the occupancy type and location in Table 150.1-A, below. ORDINANCE NO. 2024-17 4 Exception 1 to Section 150.1(b)1. A community shared solar electric generation system, or other renewable electric generation system, or community shared battery storage system, that provides dedicated power, utility energy reduction credits or payments for energy bill reductions to the permitted building, and is approved by the Energy Commission as specified in Title 24, Part 1, Section 10- 115, may offset part or all of the Solar Electric Generation and Demand Flexibility Energy Design Rating required to comply with the standards, as calculated according to methods established by the Commission in the Residential ACM Reference Manual. Exception 2 to Section 150.1(b)1. A newly constructed building that does not require a PV system in accordance with section 150.1(c)14 is not required to have a Source Energy Design Rating Compliance Margin. [Subsections 150.1(b)(2)-(3) are adopted without modification] (d) Section 170.1 (Performance Approach), of CEnC Subchapter 11 (Multifamily Buildings – Performance and Prescriptive Compliance Approaches) is amended to read: 170.1 Performance Approach. A building complies with the performance approach if both the following conditions are met: 1. The energy budget calculated for the proposed design building under subsection (b) is no greater than the energy budget calculated for the Standard Design Building under subsection (a). 2. The energy budget calculated for the proposed design building under subsection (b) must also have a Source Energy Compliance Margin, relative to the energy budget calculated for the Standard Table 150.1-A SOURCE ENERGY DESIGN RATING COMPLIANCE MARGINS Occupancy Type Climate Zone Source Energy Desing Rating Compliance Margin (EDR1 Points) Single-Family 3 9 Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit 3 0 Single-Family 12 11 Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit 12 6.6 ORDINANCE NO. 2024-17 5 Design Building under subsection (a), of at least the value specified for the occupancy type and location in Table 170.1-A, below. (a) Energy budget for the Standard Design Building. The energy budget for the Standard Design Building is expressed in terms of source energy and time-dependent valuation (TDV) energy, and they are determined by applying the mandatory and prescriptive requirements to the proposed design building. The source energy budget and the TDV energy budget is the sum of the TDV energy for space-conditioning, indoor lighting, mechanical ventilation, photovoltaic (PV) and battery storage system, service water heating and covered process loads. (b) Energy budget for the proposed design building. The energy budget for a proposed design building is expressed in terms of source energy and time-dependent valuation (TDV) energy, and they are determined by calculating the source energy and TDV energy for the proposed design building. The source energy budget and the TDV energy budget is the sum of the energy for space-conditioning, indoor lighting, mechanical ventilation, photovoltaic (PV) and battery storage system, and service water heating and covered process loads. The proposed building shall separately comply with the source energy budget and the TDV energy budget. Exception to Section 170.1(b). A community shared solar electric generation system, or other renewable electric generation system, and/or community shared battery storage system, that provides dedicated power, utility energy reduction credits or payments for energy bill reductions to the permitted building and is approved by the Energy Commission as specified in Title 24, Part 1, Section 10- 115, may offset part or all of the solar electric generation system or Table 170.1-A SOURCE ENERGY COMPLIANCE MARGINS Occupancy Type Climate Zone Source Energy Compliance Margin Low Rise Multifamily (three or fewer habitable stories) 3 10% 12 11% High Rise Multifamily (four or more habitable stories) 3 4% 12 4% ORDINANCE NO. 2024-17 6 battery storage system TDV energy required to comply with the standards, as calculated according to methods established by the Commission in the Nonresidential ACM Reference Manual. (c) Calculation of energy budget. The TDV energy for both the Standard Design Building and the proposed design building shall be computed by compliance software certified for this use by the Commission. The processes for compliance software approval by the Commission are documented in the ACM Approval Manual. [Subsection 170.1(d) is adopted without modification] (Ords. 2024-17 § 2, 2022-35 § 3, 2022-02 § 3.) SECTION III. VALIDITY. The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors declares that if any section, paragraph, sentence, or word of this ordinance or of the 2022 California Energy Code as amended herein is declared for any reason to be invalid, it is the intent of the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors that it would have passed all other portions or provisions of this ordinance independent of the elimination herefrom any portion or provision as may be declared invalid. SECTION IV. EFFECTIVE AND OPERATIVE DATE. This ordinance becomes effective, but not operative, upon approval by the California Energy Commission or 30 days after passage, whichever is later. This ordinance will become operative on the effective date of this ordinance or January 1, 2025, whichever is later. Within 15 days of passage, this ordinance shall be published once in the East Bay Times, a newspaper published in this County. PASSED on ___________________________, by the following vote: AYES: NOES: ABSENT: ABSTAIN: ATTEST: MONICA NINO, _____________________________ Clerk of the Board of Supervisors Board Chair and County Administrator By: ______________________ [SEAL] Deputy KCK: FINDINGS FOR ORDINANCE NO. 2024-XX 1 of 5 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY FINDINGS IN SUPPORT OF CHANGES, ADDITIONS, AND DELETIONS TO CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE TO REQUIRE CERTAIN NEWLY CONSTRUCTED BUILDINGS TO BE MORE ENERGY EFFICIENT The California Building Standards Commission has adopted and published the 2022 Building Standards Code, which became effective on January 1, 2023. The 2022 Building Standards Code is composed of the 2022 California Building, Residential, Green Building Standards, Energy, Electrical, Plumbing, Mechanical, and Existing Building Codes. These codes are enforced in Contra Costa County by the Building Inspection Division of the Department of Conservation and Development. Although these codes apply statewide, Health and Safety Code sections 17958.5 and 18941.5 authorize a local jurisdiction to modify or change these codes to establish more restrictive building standards if the jurisdiction finds that the modifications and changes are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological, or topographical conditions. Additionally, Public Resources Code section 25402.1(h)(2) further authorizes a local jurisdiction to modify or change the California Energy Code if the local jurisdiction finds that the proposed standards are cost-effective, and the California Energy Commission determines that the proposed standards will require the diminution of energy consumption levels permitted by the 2022 California Energy Code. Ordinance No. 2024-17 amends the 2022 California Energy Code to increase energy efficiency standards for certain newly constructed residential buildings, hotels, offices, and retail buildings be constructed to be more energy efficient than the 2022 California Energy Code mandates. Pursuant to Health and Safety Code section 17958.7, the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors finds that the more restrictive standards contained in Ordinance No. 2024-17 are reasonably necessary because of the local climatic, geological, and topographic conditions that are described below. I. Local Conditions A. Climatic 1. Temperature a) Conditions Temperatures have been recorded as high as 114° F. Average summer highs are in the 75° to 90° range, with average maximums of 105° in some areas of unincorporated Contra Costa County. FINDINGS FOR ORDINANCE NO. 2024-XX 2 of 5 b) Impact Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can be detrimental to the health and safety of building occupants. Buildings that meet higher efficiency requirements have the ability to maintain indoor space conditioning for longer periods of time. During power outages, particularly outages that coincide with extreme temperatures, energy efficient buildings provide higher levels of health and safety to the occupants of the building. 2. Greenhouse Gas Emissions a) Conditions Energy use in buildings contributes significantly to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Increased levels of GHGs in the atmosphere accelerate the rate of climate change, a phenomenon known as global warming. Scientists attribute the global warming trend observed since the mid-20th century to the human expansion of the “greenhouse effect.”The greenhouse effect is caused by the warming that results when the atmosphere traps heat radiating from Earth toward space.1 Residential and commercial buildings are responsible for roughly 25% of California’s GHG emissions.2 In buildings, the combustion of natural gas and petroleum products for heating and cooking needs emits carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N20). Emissions from natural gas consumption represent 78 percent of direct fossil fuel CO2 emissions from the residential and commercial sectors in 2022.3 In 2016, through Senate Bill 32, California set targets to reduce GHG emissions to be 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030. Subsequently, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) released its 2022 Scoping Plan outlining a roadmap for California to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045 or earlier.4 Contra Costa County is also taking steps to reduce GHG emissions. As part of the Envision Contra Costa 2040, the County is updating its Climate Action and Adaptation Plan to improve community resilience and establish GHG reduction targets consistent with the State targets. As part of this update, the County completed a local greenhouse gas emissions inventory. b) Impact Requiring more stringent building efficiency standards in new construction for the building types specified in this ordinance is consistent with the intent of State legislation and County requirements to aggressively implement energy policies designed to ensure success in meeting GHG emission reduction goals. 1 NASA, The Causes of Climate Change, as of August 8, 2024, https://science.nasa.gov/climate-change/causes/ 2 California Air Resources Board, Building Decarbonization, as of August 8, 2024, https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/our- work/programs/building-decarbonization 3 United States Environmental Protection Agency, Source of Greenhouse Gas Emissions, as of August 8, 2024, https://www.epa.gov/ghgemissions/sources-greenhouse-gas-emissions#commercial-and-residential. 4 California Air Resources Board (n 2) FINDINGS FOR ORDINANCE NO. 2024-XX 3 of 5 B. Geological 1. Seismicity a) Conditions Contra Costa County is located in Seismic Design Categories D and E, which designates the County at very high risk for earthquakes. Buildings and other structures in these zones can experience major seismic damage. Contra Costa County is near numerous earthquake faults including the San Andreas Fault, and all or portions of the Hayward, Calaveras, Concord, Antioch, Mt. Diablo, and other lesser faults. A 4.1 earthquake with its epicenter in Concord occurred in 1958, and a 5.4 earthquake with its epicenter also in Concord occurred in 1955. The Concord and Antioch faults have a potential for a Richter 6 earthquake and the Hayward and Calaveras faults have the potential for a Richter 7 earthquake. Minor tremblers from seismic activity are not uncommon in the area. A study released in 2015 by the Working Group of California Earthquake Probabilities predicts that for the San Francisco region, the 30-year likelihood of one or more earthquake of 6.7 or larger magnitude is 72%. The purpose of this Working Group is to develop statewide, time-dependent Earthquake Rupture Forecasts for California that use best available science, and are endorsed by the United States Geological Survey, the Southern California Earthquake Center, and the California Geological Survey. Scientists, therefore, believe that an earthquake of a magnitude 6.7 or larger is now slightly more than twice as likely to occur as to not occur in, approximately, the next 30 years. b) Impact A major earthquake could cause major damage to electrical transmission facilities and gas distribution infrastructure which is likely to disrupt these services to buildings. “If ambient temperatures are extremely hot or cold during these outages, it can become a public health emergency. Efficient buildings retain their space conditioning (cooling and heating) longer during power outages, making building occupants more resilient.”5 Increasing the level of energy efficiency in new construction for the building types specified in this ordinance will increase resilience during power outages by enabling buildings to maintain safe indoor conditions during power outages. 5 Center for Climate And Energy Solutions, Resilience Strategies for Power Outages, https://www.epa.gov/ghgemissions/sources-greenhouse-gas-emissions#commercial-and-residential FINDINGS FOR ORDINANCE NO. 2024-XX 4 of 5 C. Topographic 1. Vegetation a) Conditions The wildland-urban interface exists throughout Contra Costa County, oftentimes abutting residential development and other critical infrastructure. Due to the presence of highly combustible dry grass, weeds, and brush in hilly and open space areas for 6-8 months of the year, these areas are susceptible to wildland fires which can threaten nearby structures and disrupt power delivery. Wildland fires also create thick layers of toxic smoke and particulate matter that can be harmful to communities exposed to it. b) Impact Energy efficient buildings, especially those with Distributed Energy Resources (DER) such as solar generation and battery storage, are more capable of maintaining indoor air quality and comfortable temperatures during power loss events caused by wildland fires and/or extreme heat. “Resilient solutions that incorporate back-up power with efficiency measures will deliver many more critical hours of safety (the duration a building can maintain livable conditions during an extreme weather event or wildfire)”6 Requiring more stringent building efficiency standards by amending the building code will enhance Contra Costa County residents’ resilience to wildland fires which have become endemic to the region. II. Necessity of More Restrictive Standards Due to the conditions described above, the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors finds that there are local climatic, geological, and topographical conditions unique to Contra Costa County that require the imposition of building energy standards that are more stringent that the State’s energy code for newly constructed residential buildings, detached accessory dwelling units, hotels, offices, and retail buildings as set forth in Ordinance No. 2024-17 III. California Energy Code Pursuant to California Public Resources Code section 25402.1(h)(2), the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors finds that the modifications made to the California Energy Code in this ordinance are cost-effective for newly constructed residential buildings, including detached accessory dwelling units located in climate zone 12, and all newly constructed hotels, offices and retail buildings. This finding of cost-effectiveness is based on the following cost-effectiveness studies prepared as part of the Statewide Reach Codes Program: 6 Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI), Adapting to Fire: How Cities Can Enhance Resilience with Distributed Energy, as of August XX, 2024, https://rmi.org/adapting-to-fire-how-cities-can-enhance-resilience-with-distributed-energy/ FINDINGS FOR ORDINANCE NO. 2024-XX 5 of 5 • 2022 Cost-Effectiveness Study: Single Family New Construction Last modified May 30, 2024 • 2022 Cost-Effectiveness Study: Multifamily New Construction Last modified June 20, 2023 • 2022 Cost-Effectiveness Study: Nonresidential New Construction Reach Code Last modified March 24, 2023 Contra Costa County is located in climate zones 3 and 12. The cost-effectiveness studies conclude that specific modifications to the 2022 California Energy Code—including more stringent building energy efficiency requirements for newly constructed residential buildings, hotels, offices, and retail buildings— are cost-effective for climate zones 3 and 12. The Board of Supervisors also finds, pursuant to California Public Resources Code section 25402.1(h)(2), that the modifications made to the California Energy Code in this ordinance will require diminution of energy consumption levels compared to those permitted by the 2022 California Energy Code. These findings of cost-effectiveness and energy savings will be filed with the California Energy Commission before Ordinance No. 2024-17 takes effect. 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2687 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/2/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:ACCEPT the monetary donation report from the Animal Services Department, which describes the source and value of each gift received by Animal Services for FY 2023/24, Quarter 4: April 1, 2024, through June 30, 2024. (No fiscal impact) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass 5:0 To:Board of Supervisors From:Ben Winkleblack, Animal Services Director Report Title:Monetary donation report from the Animal Services Department for FY 2023/24, Quarter 4: April 1, 2024 through June 30, 2024 ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: ACCEPT the monetary donation report from the Animal Services Department, which describes the source and value of each gift received by Animal Services for FY 2023/24, Quarter 4: April 1, 2024 through June 30, 2024. FISCAL IMPACT: This is an informational item only. No fiscal impact. The total value of donations received during FY 2023/24 Quarter 4 is $190,801.84. BACKGROUND: In 1998, the Animal Services Department created the Animal Benefit Fund to allow the Department to receive donations from individuals, animal welfare organizations, and businesses to support animal health and welfare projects that are not funded by departmental or general County revenue. On April 19, 2016, the Board of Supervisors delegated specific authority to the Animal Services Director to accept any monetary donation, gift, bequest, or device made to or in favor of the Contra Costa County Animal Services Department, as allowed under Government Code section 25355, and to solicit donations for the benefit of shelter animals. Along with this delegated authority, the Animal Services Director must file a report with the Board of Supervisors every quarter describing each gift's source and value. On December 8, 2020, the Board of Supervisors adopted Resolution No. 2020/326, which authorized the Animal Services Director to implement the following programs within the Animal Benefit Fund beginning FY CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2687,Version:1 2021/22: 1.Medical Assistance Program: This program is for medical assistance and emergency veterinary care for animals in the County's jurisdiction and/or who have been accepted into the County shelter’s care. Funds are used for medical care over and above the mandated medical care for animals in the care of the shelter that needs further assistance to be made available for adoption or release to a transfer agency. Funds may also be used to provide necessary medical care to an animal to help keep the animal out of the shelter. 2.Humane Education Program: This program supports humane education services at the County animal shelter and within the community. Humane education support may also help pet owners resolve behavioral problems that might otherwise cause them to give up their pets, help shelter animals with behavioral issues that might keep them from being easily adopted, and create humane education programs for school-age children. 3.Shelter Intervention Program: Often, families in a crisis turn to surrendering their pets to a shelter due to a lack of financial resources. The intervention program helps to provide resources to keep animals in their homes. Intervention tools include spaying/neutering, behavior/training assistance, fence repair, and grooming. This program may also be used to help domestic violence victims or seniors on limited incomes to keep their pets in their lives when they may otherwise have had to consider relinquishment due to a lack of funds for basic daily needs or medical concerns. 4.Spay Neuter and Wellness Program: This program allows spay/neuter, vaccinations, and microchips to be more affordable and accessible in Contra Costa County. Contra Costa Animal Services accomplishes this by establishing partnerships and developing mobile programs to reach into the areas of the County in greatest need, targeting the species/breeds of animals most likely to be found in the County shelter, and supporting healthy community cats through TNR/RTF (trap-neuter-return / return- to-field) and Working Cat Adoptions. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Failure to accept the report will delay the information the Board has requested. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ Program Description Date Posted Amount GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 4/3/2024 389.16$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 4/4/2024 15.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 4/4/2024 20.76$ GENERAL ABF WEBSITE DONATION 4/5/2024 1,264.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 4/5/2024 5.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 4/11/2024 25.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 4/12/2024 110.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 4/12/2024 45.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 4/12/2024 36.68$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 4/16/2024 504.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 4/19/2024 1,000.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 4/24/2024 15.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 4/24/2024 500.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 4/24/2024 31.14$ GENERAL ABF WEBSITE DONATION 4/25/2024 400.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 4/25/2024 152,924.54$ GENERAL ABF WEBSITE DONATION 4/26/2024 25.00$ GENERAL ABF WEBSITE DONATION 4/29/2024 35.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 4/30/2024 9,007.86$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 5/1/2024 1,000.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 5/2/2024 120.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 5/2/2024 248.85$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 5/2/2024 83.41$ GENERAL ABF WEBSITE DONATION 5/2/2024 75.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 5/6/2024 71.68$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 5/6/2024 231.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 5/8/2024 175.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 5/8/2024 55.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 5/8/2024 135.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 5/15/2024 100.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 5/15/2024 20.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 5/15/2024 200.00$ GENERAL ABF WEBSITE DONATION 5/16/2024 580.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 5/20/2024 60.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 5/20/2024 24.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 5/20/2024 5,500.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 5/23/2024 105.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 5/23/2024 526.04$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 5/28/2024 250.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 5/30/2024 3,000.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 5/30/2024 20.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 6/4/2024 9.52$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 6/4/2024 0.07$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 6/6/2024 141.68$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 6/6/2024 150.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 6/7/2024 40.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 6/12/2024 20.76$ GENERAL ABF WEBSITE DONATION 6/13/2024 70.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 6/14/2024 750.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 6/14/2024 25.00$ GENERAL ABF WEBSITE DONATION 6/14/2024 100.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 6/20/2024 150.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 6/20/2024 50.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 6/20/2024 20.76$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 6/21/2024 193.68$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 6/24/2024 55.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 6/27/2024 5.00$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 6/27/2024 5,000.50$ GENERAL ABF GENERAL DONATION 6/28/2024 5,086.75$ TOTAL 190,801.84$ 190,801.84$ Summary by Donation Type Type Total GENERAL DONATION 188,252.84$ WEBSITE DONATION 2,549.00$ Grand Total 190,801.84$ ABF DONATION REPORT 23/24 Q4 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2688 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/23/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and Authorize the Animal Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation (d.b.a. Joybound People and Pets) in the amount not to exceed $700,000 to provide vaccine and microchip clinics, pet retention assistance, client transportation, and spay and neuter programs for the period of September 1, 2024, through June 30, 2027. (100% Measure X) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass 5:0 To:Board of Supervisors From:Ben Winkleblack, Animal Services Director Report Title:Contract with Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation (d.b.a. Joybound People and Pets) ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and Authorize the Animal Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation (d.b.a. Joybound People and Pets) in the amount not to exceed $700,000 to provide vaccine and microchip clinics, pet retention assistance, client transportation, and spay and neuter programs for the period of September 1, 2024, through June 30, 2027. FISCAL IMPACT: This contract is funded 100% by Measure X tax revenue. BACKGROUND: On November 3, 2020, Contra Costa County voters approved Measure X, which established a countywide, 20- year, ½ cent sales tax. This tax, which commenced collection on April 1, 2021, was designed to ensure continued funding for essential services in Contra Costa County. On December 12, 2023, the Board of Supervisors allocated $750,000 from Measure X funds for various animal welfare services, including low-cost spay and neuter programs, microchipping and vaccination clinics, and pet retention services. Pet retention services encompass a range of support, such as spay/neuter procedures, behavioral and training assistance, fence repairs, food assistance, and grooming services. These initiatives aim to provide underserved community members with the resources necessary to keep their pets. In April 2024, the Animal Services Department issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) to identify qualified CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2688,Version:1 animal welfare organizations capable of serving high-intake areas within Contra Costa County. Following the RFP process, Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, operating as Joybound People and Pets, was selected to receive $700,000 in funding. This organization will deliver services in the City of Pittsburg/Bay Point (zip code 94565), the City of Richmond (94801), and surrounding communities. Services will include vaccine and microchip clinics, pet retention assistance, client transportation, and spay and neuter programs. Joybound People and Pets will provide these services from July 2024 through June 2027. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Failure to approve this contract will affect the Department’s capacity to increase animal services in accordance with its Measure X funding and commitments. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2689 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/28/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:ADOPT the fiscal year 2024-25 secured property tax rate, AUTHORIZE the levy of these rates against the taxable secured property within the County, as recommended by the Auditor-Controller. Attachments:, Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Robert Campbell, Auditor-Controller Report Title:Adoption of 2024-25 Secured Property Tax Rates and Authorization to Levy the 2024-25 Property Tax Roll RECOMMENDATIONS: ADOPT the fiscal year 2024-25 secured property tax rates as shown on Exhibit A, attached; AUTHORIZE the levy of these rates and those adopted by cities and multi-county districts, as shown in Exhibit B, against the taxable secured property within the County that is subject to each rate (anticipated revenues specified in Exhibit A are subject to changes in the secured roll); and ADOPT and levy the 2024-25 tax rates as shown on Exhibit B for the Unitary and Operating Non-Unitary property assessed by the State Board of Equalization with a single countywide value, as recommended by the Auditor-Controller. FISCAL IMPACT: Adoption of the attached property tax rates will generate over $3.1 billion in property tax revenues to be apportioned to the County, Cities, Schools and other eligible agencies. BACKGROUND: Under Government Code Section 29100, the Board of Supervisors (Board) is responsible for the adoption by resolution of the tax rates for the current year secured property tax roll. The General Obligation Bond rates are provided by the Auditor-Controller at a level adequate to support the annual debt service requirements and necessary bond reserves. Government Code Section 29101 requires that the Board levy these rates on the appropriate taxable property in the County. Revenue and Taxation Code Section 100(b) provides for the tax rate to be applied to the Unitary and Operating Non-Unitary property. However, with respect to the unitary property owned by BNSF Railway Company and Union Pacific Railroad CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2689,Version:1 Company, the federal court entered stipulated judgments requiring the County to apply the countywide rate as reported by the State Board of Equalization for private railroad car assessments. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Failure to approve this action will result in the County not being in compliance with Government Code Section 29101 and this will result in the loss of over $3.1 billion in property tax revenues. I hereby certify that this is a true and correct copy of an action taken and entered on the minutes of the Board of Supervisors on the date shown. ATTESTED: Monica Nino, County Administrator and Clerk of the Board of Supervisors By: CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ Exhibit A Government Code Section 29142 allows a collection fee for debt service requirements on bonds authorized and issued by special districts up to one-fourth of one percent. The tax amounts and rates for special districts include an additional one-fourth of one percent as the County's collection fee. Amount to be raised Rate as Percentage on Secured Roll of Full Value Countywide tax $2,709,083,000 1.0000 % LOCAL SPECIAL DISTRICTS Contra Costa Water Land Levy 724,100 .0019 Pleasant Hill Rec. & Park 2009 1,448,100 .0139 SCHOOL DISTRICTS ELEMENTARY: Brentwood Elementary 1997 787,100 .0053 Brentwood Elementary 2003 2,348,000 .0157 Brentwood Elementary 2016 3,792,500 .0253 Byron Elementary 2006 1,020,000 .0243 Lafayette Elementary 2016 3,005,800 .0233 Moraga Elementary 2016 1,358,300 .0235 Moraga Elementary 2024 1,686,400 .0291 Oakley Elementary 2004 944,800 .0141 Oakley Elementary 2016 1,219,400 .0182 Orinda Union 2018E 2,509,600 .0261 Orinda Union 2018I 2,515,100 .0261 Walnut Creek Elementary 1995 0 .0000 Walnut Creek Elementary 2002 1,766,900 .0091 Walnut Creek Elementary 2016 1,982,100 .0102 Walnut Creek Elementary 2022 4,082,300 .0209 HIGH SCHOOL: Acalanes Union 1997 0 .0000 Acalanes Union 2002 1,043,600 .0022 Acalanes Union 2008 13,787,400 .0288 Liberty Union 2001 3,032,200 .0113 Liberty Union 2016 4,261,100 .0159 UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICTS: Antioch USD SFID 2008 3,944,700 .0434 Antioch USD SFID 2012 2,190,200 .0241 Antioch USD 2024 3,244,000 .0202 John Swett 2002 356,700 .0081 John Swett 2008 1,195,100 .0271 John Swett 2016-P 1,467,000 .0332 John Swett 2016-Q 863,800 .0196 Martinez Unified 2010 3,543,000 .0443 Martinez Unified 2016 3,819,000 .0478 Mt Diablo 2002 8,607,800 .0163 Mt Diablo 2010 24,109,700 .0455 Mt Diablo 2018 3,732,800 .0071 Pittsburg Unified 1995 0 .0000 Pittsburg Unified 2004 0 .0000 Pittsburg Unified 2006 0 .0000 Pittsburg Unified 2010 952,000 .0151 Pittsburg Unified 2014 1,181,200 .0187 Pittsburg Unified 2018 2,986,700 .0473 San Ramon Unified 2002 12,265,400 .0192 San Ramon Unified 2012 21,067,500 .0329 West Contra Costa Unified 1998 0 .0000 West Contra Costa Unified 2000 4,728,200 .0115 West Contra Costa Unified 2002 22,465,000 .0545 West Contra Costa Unified 2005 27,705,300 .0672 West Contra Costa Unified 2010 13,997,600 .0340 West Contra Costa Unified 2012 11,227,800 .0273 West Contra Costa Unified 2020 22,411,100 .0544 COMMUNITY COLLEGE: CC Community College 2002 7,667,300 .0029 CC Community College 2006 9,697,700 .0037 CC Community College 2014 20,228,200 .0076 COUNTYWIDE TAX AND TAX RATES CALCULATED BY THE AUDITOR-CONTROLLER Exhibit B Rate as Percentage of Full Value MULTI-COUNTY DISTRICTS: Bay Area Rapid Transit 2004 .0047 % Bay Area Rapid Transit 2016 .0101 East Bay Regional Park .0013 Livermore Joint Unified 1999 .0238 Livermore Jt 2016 .0237 Chabot-Las Positas Comm Coll 2004 .0197 Chabot-Las Positas Comm Coll 2016 .0196 CITIES: Orinda Roads Bond 2014 .0118 Orinda Roads Bond 2016 .0179 Brentwood, City of .0046 Lafayette, City of .0040 Richmond Pension Tax .1400 Martinez Park Bond 2008 .0183 TAX LEVY FOR UNITARY AND OPERATING NON-UNITARY PROPERTY FOR 2024/25 Rate as Percentage of Full Value Countywide Tax 1.8856 % (Unitary) BNSF and Union Pacific Railroad 1.1530 % (Per Stipulated Judgment) TAX RATES ADOPTED BY OTHER DISTRICTS Per certifications received from the governing body of each district. 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2883 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/27/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the District 3 Supervisor to execute, on behalf of the County, an agreement among the County, the Bethel Island Municipal Improvement District, and Mt Diablo Resource Recovery, effective August 6, 2024, to jointly host a Bethel Island Community Cleanup Day on September 14, 2024, and annually thereafter until the agreement is terminated, Bethel Island area, as recommended by the Bethel Island Municipal Advisory Council and the District 3 Supervisor. Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Diane Burgis, District III Supervisor Report Title:Agreement among Contra Costa County, Bethel Island Municipal Improvement District, and Mt. Diablo Resource Recovery, related to annual "Bethel Island Community Clean-up" events ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the District 3 Supervisor to execute, on behalf of the County, an agreement among the County, the Bethel Island Municipal Improvement District (BIMID), and Mt Diablo Resource Recovery, effective August 6, 2024, to jointly host a Bethel Island community cleanup day on September 14, 2024, and annually thereafter until the agreement is terminated, Bethel Island area, as recommended by the Bethel Island Municipal Advisory Council and the District 3 Supervisor. DETERMINE that this activity is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to CEQA Guidelines section 15311, and, alternatively section 15061(b)(3), because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the temporary placement debris boxes and use of the property may have a significant effect on the environment. FISCAL IMPACT: None. BACKGROUND: CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2883,Version:1 The agreement includes a mutual indemnification clause. The County will indemnify BIMID to the extent any liabilities arise from the County’s negligence or willful misconduct. MDRR will indemnify BIMID and the County to the extent that any liabilities arise from its negligence or willful misconduct. Additionally, MDRR will release the County and BIMID from any loss of or damage to its debris boxes, vehicles, and equipment left on BIMID property in connection with an event. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: The Bethel Island Community Cleanup events would not be held if BIMID property, and an alternative location would need to be identified for use, potentially at a higher cost. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ Marla Stuart, Employment and Human Services Director info@ehsd.cccounty.us | 925-608-4800 EHSD Challenges: Staffing July 22, 2024 1 Table of Contents •Staffing & Hiring Overview •Vacancy Rate •Impacts of High Vacancies •Long-Term Solutions 2 Staffing & Hiring Overview 3 Hiring is a National Problem 4 May 2024 Post -Pandemic Job Market •Great Resignation •Demand for full-time remote work Contra Costa County Unemployment Rate: 3.9% California Unemployment Rate: 5.2% Source: St. Louis FRED Unemployment Rate, Not Seasonally Adjusted Hiring & Separations 5Source: PeopleSoft CCCH005 Transaction Report Vacancy Rates by Bureau 6 Vacancy Rate July 2023 Total Vacant Positions: 331 Total Approved FTE: 1,937.5 17.0% Vacancy Source: PeopleSoft CCCH065 and CCCH107 Reports July 2024 Total Vacant Positions: 316 Total Approved FTE: 1,937.5 16.3% Vacancy Vacancy Rates June 2024 8Source: PeopleSoftCCH107 Fiscal Run Date: 2024.06.30 9 Issues Created: •Teacher vacancies have resulted in classroom closures which challenge our ability to reach >95% full enrollment as required by federal government * Note: Enrollment Rate comparator data sourced from Administration of Child and Families (ACF). There is comparator data available for Attendance Rate. 10 Issues Created: •Vacancies negatively affect the rate of permanency in 12 months for children entering foster care * Note: Comparator data sourced from Berkeley California Child Welfare Indicators Project (CCWIP). Bay Area counties included here are: Alameda, Marin, San Benito, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Solano, Sonoma •Impacts timeliness, particularly to Medi-Cal application timeliness rates 11 Issues Created: * Note: CalFresh application processing comparator data sourced from the CDSS CalFresh Data Dashboard. There is no comparator data for the other metrics listed. •Administrative staff shortages impact the ability to meet grant deliverables and expenditure requirements, and puts the ability to apply for new funding at risk •Delays or reduction in services to the community 12 Issues Created: Note: There is no comparator data available as each local area negotiates its own unique performance measures 13 Issues Created: •Unable to meet compliance standards for IHSS Reassessment •Administrative staff shortages challenge our ability to manage and monitor contracts Note: IHSS application and reassessment timeliness data sourced from CDSS. No comparator data is available for APS initial face-to-face visit timeliness. Long-Term Solutions 14 Continuous Recruitments 15 VacantContinuous: ALL Total: 21 EHSD ONLY: 19 Countywide: 2 County Pathways: Part 1 16 Soc Svc Program Assistant 113 Social Service Program Asst I 6435 Pathways to County Employment Attendees 2950% of the registered participants attended and completed the event 177 Clerk-Experienced Level 10 Clerk-Senior Level 11 Clerk-Specialist Level 8 Eligibility Positions Targeted Clerical Positions Targeted County Pathways: Part 2 17 Vacant BASSC Bay Area Social Services Consortium Teacher Bonuses 18 Vacant137 Teaching staff paid retention bonuses 41$12,000 $6,000 Amount each teacher received as a retention bonus New teaching staff paid hiring bonuses Amount each new teacher received as a retention bonus $1.64 m Total teacher retention bonuses paid $264 k Total new teacher bonuses paid CCWORKS Program (WEX) 19 Program Highlights FY 2023-24 Provides subsidized employment ($16- $21/hr) for CalWORKS and Welfare-to- Work clients for 6 months (6-month extension possible) to improve skills and work readiness. Employment Counselors work with employers and participants to job match for skills. Total Served*4 Placed externally 21 Placed internally 48 10 Unsubsidized Employment Note: During COVID, exemptions were put in place that made participation in CCWORKS optional; these exemptions are still in place. 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 Participants Served 2014-2022 Referrals Placements Permanent Employment *13 were served whose service did not result in direct placement. The services received were job readiness, training, or found employment outside of the program. EHSD-Dedicated Staff in HR 20 Vacant Position Adjustment Resolution No. 26288 ADOPTED – 6/25/2024 Lower Vacancy Rate XX open recruitments (the number of all our vacant classifications) +2 Hire Additional HR Analysts dedicated to EHSD in Central HR 21 Open Recruitments as of 7/8/2024 1 HR Analyst in Central HR dedicated to EHSD Recruitments Personnel Organizational Development 21 Vacant •Staff retreat and support •SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) •Coaching •Workflow •Desk Guides •Reporting Billboards and Ads 22 Vacant Marla Stuart, MSW PhD Director info@ehsd.cccounty.us | 925-608-4800 Discussion 23 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2690 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:7/25/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:ACCEPT the report on staffing issues impacting the Employment and Human Services Department, as recommended by the Family and Human Services Committee. Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Family & Human Services Committee Report Title:Report on staffing issues impacting the Employment and Human Services Department ☐Recommendation of the County Administrator ☒ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: ACCEPT the report on staffing issues impacting the Employment and Human Services Department, as recommended by the Family and Human Services Committee. FISCAL IMPACT: There is no fiscal impact for this action. BACKGROUND: This referral to the Family and Human Services Committee (FHS) was originally made by the Board of Supervisors on April 25, 2000. Another referral to FHS, number 19, on Welfare Reform was referred on January 21, 1997. On January 1, 2005, the Board of Supervisors combined these two referrals so that the Employment and Human Services Department (EHSD) could provide updates on various aspects of their programs as the need arose. Since that time, the Family and Human Services Committee has received annual updates from EHSD on a variety of issues impacting the Department. On January 5, 2016, the Board approved the staff recommendation to carry forward this referral to the 2016 FHS. On June 7, 2016, the Board approved the recommendation of the Employment and Human Services Director to eliminate the "Office of the Future" component of the referral and expand the referral to include a report on the Continuum of Care (Foster Care) topic. On July 22, 2024, the Family and Human Services Committee received the attached report on staffing issues impacting EHSD and directed staff to forward it to the Board for their information. Comparison data on EHSD CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2690,Version:1 performance measures has been added to this report. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: This report will not be received. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ November 5 Statewide Ballot Measures As of 2pm on Thursday, July 11 Proposition Number Title (As assigned by the Secretary of State)Description Fiscal Impact Referred to CSAC Policy Committee Proposition 2 Kindergarten Through Grade 12 Schools and Local Community College Public Education Facilities Modernization, Repair, and Safety Bond Act of 2024 This bond measure would allow the state to borrow $10 billion to fund repairs and upgrades for K-12 schools and community colleges. The Legislative Analyst's Office is currently drafting their analysis on the bond measures, developing an expert understanding of the fiscal impact of these bonds and what the future debt serving will look like. N/A Proposition 3 Marriage equality Currently, the California Constitution only recognizes marriages between a man and a woman. This measure would revise this provision to instead provide that marriage is a fundamental right. The original provision has not been enforceable since the United States’ Supreme Court’s decision in Obergefell v. Hodges in 2015 that requires all states to recognize and grant same-sex marriages. According to the Senate Appropriations Committee, this measure is estimated to result in minimal and absorbable one-time costs for the SOS for printing and mailing expenses associated with placing the measure on the ballot. There are no immediate anticipated fiscal impacts to local governments as a result of this measure. N/A Proposition 4 The Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire Prevention, Drought Preparedness, and Clean Air Bond Act of 2024 This bond measure would allow the state to borrow $10 billion to fund climate and environmental projects. The bond would support projects that provide clean water, enhance water recycling facilities, and add to California's ground water storage. This bond will also create new parks, protect wildlife and habitats, fight air pollution, address extreme heat and fund sustainable agriculture. The Legislative Analyst's Office is currently drafting their analysis on the bond measures, developing an expert understanding of the fiscal impact of these bonds and what the future debt serving will look like. Agriculture, Environment, and Natural Resources Proposition 5 Local government financing: affordable housing and public infrastructure: voter approval Proposition 5, as amended via ACA 10, would reduce vote requirements for general obligation bonds financing affordable housing, permanent supportive housing, or public infrastructure, as defined, and any associated ad valorem taxes needed to pay the interest and redemption charges on bonded indebtedness. The original version of this measure would have reduced vote requirements for special taxes to raise revenue for those same categories. According to the Assembly Appropriations Committee, this measure is estimated to result in minimal and absorbable one- time costs for the SOS for printing and mailing expenses associated with placing the measure on the ballot. There are no immediate anticipated fiscal impacts to local governments as a result of this measure. Government Finance and Administration Proposition 6 Slavery Slavery and involuntary servitude are currently prohibited under the California Constitution, except unless used as a punishment for a crime. If approved by voters, Proposition 6 would prohibit slavery and involuntary servitude beginning January 1, 2025. This measure also ensures that the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) shall not discipline an incarcerated person for refusing a work assignment but would allow CDCR to continue to award credits to those who voluntarily accept a work assignment. AB 628 (Wilson), a companion bill to this measure, would ensure that compensation levels for work conducted in state prison are set by regulations promulgated by the Secretary of CDCR, and for work conducted in county jails, set by local ordinance. AB 628 only becomes operative should Proposition 6 be approved by the voters in November. According to the Senate Appropriations Committee, this measure has unknown, but potentially significant ongoing state costs (General Fund) to CDCR as a result of prohibiting involuntary servitude in state prisons. This measure also has unknown, but potentially significant non-reimbursable ongoing local costs (local funds) for local correctional facilities as a result of prohibiting involuntary servitude in local jails. N/A Questions? Contact Paul Shafer, CSAC Legislative Coordinator at pshafer@counties.org Page 1 of 2 www.counties.org Attachment A November 5 Statewide Ballot Measures As of 2pm on Thursday, July 11 Proposition Number Title (As assigned by the Secretary of State)Description Fiscal Impact Referred to CSAC Policy Committee Proposition 32 Raises Minimum Wage If passed, this measure will make changes to the annual scheduled minimum wage increases. These increases would be extended until the minimum wage reaches $18.00 per hour. According to the Legislative Analyst Office, it is unclear what the change in annual state and local tax revenues would be, likely between a loss of a couple billion dollars and a gain of a few hundred million dollars. Increase in annual state and local government costs likely between half a billion dollars and a few billion dollars. N/A Proposition 33 Expands Local Governments Authority to Enact Rent Control on Residential Property The Costa-Hawkins Rental Housing Act of 1995 limits cities and counties from enacting initial rental rate limits for new tenants in all types of housing. This measure would repeal this law, granting cities and counties the right to establish, maintain, enact or expand residential rent control ordinances. According to the Legislative Analyst Office, this measure may result in a potential reduction in state and local revenues in the high tens of millions of dollars per year over time. Depending on actions by local communities, revenue losses could vary. N/A Proposition 34 Restricts Spending by Health Care Providers Meeting Specified Criteria This measure will mandate certain health care providers spend 98% of revenues from federal discount prescription drug on direct patient care. Those not in compliance with the law will be penalized by revoking their license and tax-exempt status. According to the Legislative Analyst Office, this measure will result in increased costs to state, potentially up to the millions of dollars annually, to review entities’ compliance with the measure and enforce the measure’s provisions. These costs would be covered by fees created under the measure. Uncertain fiscal impacts to state and local government health programs, depending on how the affected entities respond to the measure’s requirements. N/A Proposition 35 Provides Permanent Funding For Medi-Cal Health Care Services The Managed Care Organization (MCO) tax is a tax on managed care organizations based on health insurance enrollment in the Medi Cal program and in the commercial sector. The 2023 Budget Act, in addition to federal approval, authorized the MCO tax from April 2023 to December 2026. The MCO tax revenues offset General Fund spending in the existing Medi-Cal program and support program augmentations. This initiative would make the MCO tax permanent, subject to federal approval, and would limit the structure of the tax, and would establish specific uses for the tax revenue. According to the Legislative Analyst Office, this measure will have uncertain overall impact on state revenues and spending, including reduced legislative flexibility over the use of MCO tax funds. The extent of this impact depends on whether the measure would result in different state decisions around imposing, structuring, and spending proceeds from the managed care organization tax than in the absence of the measure. Health and Human Services Proposition 36 Allows Felony Charges and Increases Sentences for Certain Drug and Theft Crimes This measure attempts to make targeted reforms to Proposition 47 of 2014 which made possession of certain drugs and thefts under $950 chargeable only as misdemeanors. For those with two prior drug or two prior theft convictions, this would make those drug possessions and theft crimes eligible for felony classification. According to the Legislative Analyst Office, this measure will result in increased state criminal justice system costs potentially in the hundreds of millions of dollars annually, primarily due to an increase in the state prison population. Some of these costs could be offset by reductions in state spending on local mental health and substance use services, truancy and dropout prevention, and victim services due to requirements in current law. Increased local criminal justice system costs potentially in the tens of millions of dollars annually, primarily due to increased court-related workload and a net increase in the number of people in county jail and under county community supervision. Administration of Justice Questions? Contact Paul Shafer, CSAC Legislative Coordinator at pshafer@counties.org Page 2 of 2 www.counties.org Attachment A PROPOSITION 4 – THE CLIMATE BOND $3,800,000,000 FOR SAFE DRINKING WATER, DROUGHT, FLOOD, AND WATER RESILIENCE •$1,885,000,000 - California water supply and water quality. o $610,000,000 toward water quality or drinking water o $386,250,000 for groundwater storage, groundwater banking, groundwater recharge, or instream flow projects o $386,250,000 for water reuse and recycling o $75,000,000 for projects under the Water Storage Investment Program o $62,500,000 for capital investments in brackish desalination, contaminant and salt removal, and salinity management projects o $15,000,000 toward data management and to reactivate existing stream gages and deploy new gages o $75,000,000 regional conveyance projects or repairs to existing conveyances o $75,000,000 to increase water conservation in agricultural and urban areas •$1,140,000,000 - Flood Risk and Stormwater Management o $550,000,000 for flood management projects: ▪$150,000,000 for the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta to improve existing levees ▪$150,000,000 toward the Flood Control Subventions Program ▪$250,000,000 for projects related to the State Plan of Flood Control o $480,000,000 Resources for the Dam Safety and Climate Resilience Local Assistance Program that enhance dam safety and reservoir operations o $110,000,000 for urban stormwater management projects •$605,000,000 to protect and restore rivers, lakes, and streams, and to improve watershed resilience, including the resilience of fish and wildlife within the watershed. o $100,000,000 for projects related to integrated regional water management to improve climate resilience on a watershed basis o $335,000,000 for projects that protect and restore rivers, wetlands, streams, lakes, and watersheds, and improve the resilience of fish and wildlife ▪Funds under this section are specifically designated for the Los Angeles Rivershed, the Riverine Stewardship Program, the State Coastal Conservancy for the Santa Ana River Conservancy Program, the Urban Streams Restoration Program, projects that improve conditions on wildlife refuges and wetland habitat areas, the Wildlife Conservation Board for the Lower American River Conservancy Program, the State Coastal Conservancy to protect and restore watersheds through the Coyote Valley Conservation Program in the County of Santa Clara, the State Coastal Conservancy to protect and restore watersheds through the West Coyote Hills Program, funding for the California-Mexico cross-border rivers and coastal waters, and the Clear Lake Watershed. o $170,000,000 to implement the Salton Sea Management Program 10-year Plan A Attachment B PROPOSITION 4 – THE CLIMATE BOND o $150,000,000 to the Wildlife Conservation Board with a portion toward projects reintroducing salmon into cold water habitat in the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers watersheds •$20,000,000 for grants to nature and climate education and research facilities, nonprofit organizations and public institutions, natural history museums, California zoos and aquariums $1,500,000,000 FOR WILDFIRE AND FOREST RESILIENCE PROGRAMS •$1,205,000,000 to improve local fire prevention capacity, improve forest health and resilience, and reduce the risk of wildfire spreading into populated areas from wildlands, including on federal lands. o $185,000,000 projects that improve forest health and fire resilience, implement community fire preparedness demonstration projects, facilitate greenhouse gas emissions reductions, and increase carbon sequestration in forests and other landscapes across regions and throughout the state o $170,000,000 to implement regional projects, such as landscape-scale projects developed by forest collaboratives o $175,000,000 for long-term forest health projects, including improved forest management, prescribed fire, prescribed grazing, cultural fire, forest watershed restoration, reforestation, upper watershed, riparian, and mountain meadow restoration, and activities that promote long-term carbon storage and sequestration o $185,000,000 for local fire prevention grants and workforce development for fire prevention and wildfire resiliency work o $25,000,000 for the creation or expansion of a fire training center. o $200,000,000 for forest health and watershed improvement projects in forests and other habitats, especially aimed at fire hazard areas o $50,000,000 for grants to conduct fuel reduction, structure hardening, create defensible space, reforestation, or targeted acquisitions to improve forest health and fire resilience o $33,500,000 to the Sierra Nevada Conservancy o $25,500,000 to the California Tahoe Conservancy o $33,500,000 to the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy $33,500,000 to the State Coastal Conservancy o $33,500,00 to the San Gabriel and Lower Los Angeles Rivers and Mountains Conservancy o $25,500,000 to the San Diego Rivers Conservancy o $15,000,000 to the Wildfire Conservancy o $15,000,000 to the California Fire Foundation •$135,000,000 to the Office of Emergency Services for a wildfire mitigation grant program . Local agencies, among others, would be eligible to apply for grant funding of projects that reduce wildfire risks with an approved community wildfire protection plan; structure Attachment B PROPOSITION 4 – THE CLIMATE BOND hardening of critical community infrastructure, wildfire smoke mitigation, evacuation centers; creating zero-emission backup power, energy storage, and microgrids for critical community infrastructure due to disasters; and retrofitting hardening, or creati ng defensible space for homes •$50,000,000 for projects in California that provide long-term capital infrastructure to use forest and other vegetative waste removed for wildfire mitigation for noncombustible uses •$25,000,000 for technologies that improve detection and assessment of new fire ignitions •$35,000,000 for uses to reduce wildfire risk related to electricity transmission. •$50,000,000 to the California Conservation Corps or certified community conservation corps, and nonprofit workforce organizations for demonstrated jobs projects. This will include local agencies that have programs that provide park and conservation employment training. $1,200,000,000 FOR COASTAL RESILIENCE PROGRAMS •$415,000,000 for coastal resilience projects and programs •$350,000,000 for coastal and combined flood management projects and activities for developed shoreline areas, including port infrastructure •$135,000,000 for deposit into the California Ocean Protection Trust Fund •$75,000,000 to implement the California Sea Level Rise Mitigation and Adaptation Act of 2021 •$50,000,000 to implement the Sea Level Rise Adaptation Strategy •$75,000,000, to restore island ecosystem, advance climate-ready fisheries management, and restoration and management of kelp systems •$75,000,000 to remove outdated or obsolete dams and for related water infrastructure. •$25,000,000 for hatcheries and efforts toward the Central Valley Chinook Salmon $450,000,000 FOR EXTREME HEAT MITIGATION PROGRAMS •$50,000,000 to the to fund projects that reduce the impact of extreme heat, reduce the urban heat island effect, and build community resilience •$150,000,000 to the Strategic Growth Council’s Transformative Climate Communities Program •$100,000,000 for urban greening including the creation and expansion of green streets and alleyways •$50,000,000 to protect or augment California’s urban forests •$60,000,000 for the creation of strategically located community resilience centers across diverse regions of the state at eligible community facilities such as fairgrounds •$40,000,000 to fairgrounds for modifications or upgrades that provide community resilience and Deploy communications and broadband infrastructure A Attachment B PROPOSITION 4 – THE CLIMATE BOND $1,200,000,000 FOR BIODIVERSITY PROTECTION AND NATURE -BASED CLIMATE SOLUTION PROGRAMS •$870,000,000 for grant programs to protect and enhance fish and wildlife resources •$320,000,000 toward specified conservancies •$180,000,000 for projects to improve habitat connectivity and establish wildlife crossings and corridors •$10,000,000 for the Tribal Nature-Based Solutions Program •$22,000,000 for the southern Ballona Creek Watershed $300,000,000 FOR CLIMATE -SMART, SUSTAINABLE, AND RESILIENT FARMS, RANCHES, AND WORKING LANDS PROGRAMS •$105,000,000 for improvements in climate resilience of agricultural lands and ecosystem health with dedicated funding toward practices on farms and ranches that improve soil health, or accelerate atmospheric carbon removal or soil carbon sequestration and promote on farm water use efficiency •$20,000,000 for purposes of funding invasive species projects and activities •$15,000,000 for projects for the protection, restoration, conservation, and enhancement of farmland and rangeland •$90,000,000 for grants that benefit small- and medium-sized farms, socially disadvantaged farmers, beginning farmers or ranchers, and veteran farmers or ranchers, as defined, and increase the sustainability of agricultural infrastructure and facilities that support food systems, and increase market access. Funding is specifically designated toward the development and sustainability of farmers market, expand city or suburban community farms or gardens, regional farm equipment sharing, and tribes’ food sovereignty to grow, produce, procure, and distribute foods •$30,000,000 to improve land access and tenure for socially disadvantaged farmers or ranchers, tribal producers, and beginning farmers and ranchers •$15,000,000 to the California Vanpool Authority for grants for the deployment of vanpool vehicles, clean technologies, and related facilities •$15,000,000 for purposes of providing grants to public postsecondary educational institutions that are designated as Agricultural Experiment Stations or Agricultural Research Institutes, to develop research farms to improve climate resiliency •$10,000,000 Farmworker Housing Component of the Low-Income Weatherization Program, to low-income farmworker households for no-cost energy efficiency upgrades designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by saving energy. $700,000,000 FOR PARK CREATION AND OUTDOOR ACCESS PROGRAMS •$200,000,000 for the creation, expansion, and renovation of safe neighborhood parks in park-poor neighborhoods Attachment B •$200,000,000 for the creation, protection, and expansion of outdoor recreation opportunities – eligible projects would include improvements to county parks •$100,000,000 for projects to expand recreational opportunities and public access to state and public park nonmotorized trails •$175,000,000 to implement projects to address the Department of Parks and Recreation backlog of deferred maintenance. •$25,000,000 for grants to nature and climate education and research facilities, nonprofit organizations and public institutions, natural history museums, California zoos and aquariums $850,000,000 FOR CLEAN ENERGY AIR PROGRAMS •$475,000,000 to support the development of offshore wind generation •$325,000,000 for the public financing of clean energy transmission projects necessary to meet the state’s clean energy goals •$50,000,000 to support the Long-Duration Energy Storage Program Page 1 of 3 SB 867 (Allen) Support List 350 Bay Area Action 350 Conejo / San Fernando Valley 350 Humboldt 350 Ventura County Climate Hub Access Fund Active San Gabriel Valley Agricultural Institute of Marin Allensworth Progressive Association Almond Alliance American Clean Power – California American Farmland Trust Angelenos for Trees Asociación de Gente Unida por el Agua Audubon California Azul Ban SUP California Association of Port Authorities California Certified Organic Farmers California Climate & Agriculture Network California Coastal Protection Network California Coastkeeper Alliance California Environmental Voters California Forward California Institute for Biodiversity California Mountain Biking Coalition California Native Plant Society California Native Plant Society, Alta Peak Chapter California Trout California Wind Energy Association Californians for Pesticide Reform California Nurses for Environmental Health and Justice CalWild Canopy Canopy Offshore Wind, LLC | RWE Carbon Cycle Institute Catholic Charities of Stockton Center for Environmental Health Center for Food Safety Central California Environmental Justice Network Central Valley Partnership Citizens Committee to Complete the Refuge City of Huron City of Oakland, Department of Parks, Recreation and Youth Development Clean Water Action Climate 911 Climate Action Campaign at the Humboldt UU Fellowship Climate Health Now Climate Resolve Coastal Corridor Alliance Coastal Policy Solutions Community Alliance with Family Farmers Community Water Center Community Water Center Action Fund Concerned Off-Road Bicyclists Association County of Monterey Courage California Defenders of Wildlife Delta Sculling Center Ducks Unlimited, Inc. Endangered Habitats League Environmental Center of San Diego Environmental Defense Fund Environmental Protection Information Center Equinor Escondido Neighbors United Extinction Rebellion San Francisco Bay Area ForEverGreen Forestry Fresnans against Fracking Friends of Harbors, Beaches, and Parks Friends of the River Gaviota Coast Conservancy Golden Gate Bird Alliance Golden Gate Salmon Association Golden State Wind Growing Together – Bay Area Habitable Designs Health Care Without Harm Hills for Everyone Humboldt Bay Harbor Recreation and Conservation District Page 2 of 3 IBEW 569 Invenergy | Even Keel Wind Land Trust of Santa Cruz County Latino Outdoors League to Save Lake Tahoe Little Manila Rising Living Classroom Los Angeles Climate Reality Project Los Angeles Neighborhood Land Trust Marin Conservation League Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Mojave Desert Land Trust Mono Lake Committee Monterey Bay Aquarium Monterey Bay Central Labor Council Mother Lode Land Trust Mount Shasta Bioregional Ecology Center Mountain Area Preservation Move California Napa Climate NOW National Parks Conservation Association Natural Resources Defense Council Northern California Regional Land Trust Ocean Conservancy Ocean Defenders Alliance Oceana Oceantic Network Offshore Wind California Oswit Land Trust Outdoor Alliance Pacific Coast Land Design, Inc. Pacific Forest Trust Pacifica Climate Committee People for Ponto Pesticide Action Network Planning and Conservation League Point Blue Conservation Science Port of Hueneme Port of Long Beach Port of San Francisco Professional Engineers in California Government Reinvent South Stockton Coalition Resource Renewal Institute Resources Legacy Fund Roots of Change San Diego Audubon Society San Diego County Water Authority San Diego Green Infrastructure Consortium San Joaquin Community Foundation Santa Cruz Climate Action Network Save The Bay Social Eco Education Sequoia Riverlands Trust Sierra Business Council Sierra CAMP Sierra County Land Trust Sierra Institute for Community and Environment Sierra Nevada Alliance Siskiyou Crest Coalition SoCal 350 Climate Action Sonoma Land Trust South Yuba River Citizens League SPUR ST Forward Sustain Tahoe Sustainable Agriculture Education Sustainable Claremont The Climate Center The Conservation Lands Foundation The Escondido Creek Conservancy The LEAP Institute The Pew Charitable Trusts The Sierra Fund The Tree Pledge TOGETHER Bay Area Transform Trout Unlimited Trust for Public Land Tuolomne River Trust Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District Urban & Environmental Policy Institute, Occidental College Urban Counties of California Valley Eco Vineyard Offshore Vote Solar Western United Dairies WILDCOAST Wildlife Conservation Network Winter Wildlands Alliance ZEV2030 Page 3 of 3 30 | Title and Summary / Analysis PROPOSITION ALLOWS LOCAL BONDS FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND PUBLIC INFRASTRUCTURE WITH 55% VOTER APPROVAL. LEGISLATIVE CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT.5 OFFICIAL TITLE AND SUMMARY PREPARED BY THE ATTORNEY GENERAL BACKGROUND Housing Is Expensive in California. A typical California home currently costs around twice the national average. Similarly, renters in California typically pay about 50 percent more for housing than renters in other states. Local Programs Help Pay for Housing. Some programs help low-income Californians afford housing. For example, governments help pay for housing reserved for low-income residents. Other programs provide housing and services to specific groups. Examples of such groups include people with disabilities or those at risk of chronic homelessness. We refer to affordable and supportive housing programs as “housing assistance.” Local Governments Also Pay for Public Infrastructure. Examples of infrastructure projects paid for by local governments include roads, hospitals, fire stations, libraries, and water treatment facilities. Local Governments Often Use Bonds to Pay for Housing Assistance Programs and Public •Allows local bonds for affordable housing for low- and middle-income Californians, or for public infrastructure including roads, water, and fire protection to be approved by 55% of voters, rather than current two-thirds approval requirement. •Bonds must include specified accountability requirements, including citizens oversight committee and annual independent financial and performance audits. •Allows local governments to assess property taxes above 1% to repay affordable housing and infrastructure bonds if approved by 55% of voters instead of current two-thirds approval requirement. SUMMARY OF LEGISLATIVE ANALYST’S ESTIMATE OF NET STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT FISCAL IMPACT: •Increased local borrowing to fund affordable housing, supportive housing, and public infrastructure. The amount of increased borrowing would depend on decisions by local governments and voters. Borrowed funds would be repaid with higher property taxes. ANALYSIS BY THE LEGISLATIVE ANALYST The text of this measure can be found on page 94 and the Secretary of State’s website at voterguide.sos.ca.gov. 5 FINAL VOTES CAST BY THE LEGISLATURE ON ACA 1 (PROPOSITION 5) (CHAPTER 173, STATUTES OF 2023) Senate: Ayes 29 Noes 10 Assembly: Ayes 55 Noes 12 FINAL VOTES CAST BY THE LEGISLATURE ON ACA 10 (PROPOSITION 5) (CHAPTER 134, STATUTES OF 2024) Senate: Ayes 31 Noes 8 Assembly: Ayes 54 Noes 8 Attachment C For the full text of Proposition 5, see page 94. Analysis | 31 ANALYSIS BY THE LEGISLATIVE ANALYST CONTINUED Infrastructure. Bonds are a way for local governments to borrow money and then repay it plus interest over time. Similar to the way a family pays off a mortgage on their home, bonds allow governments to spread costs over a few decades. Certain Bonds Require Two-Thirds Approval of Local Voters. For cities, counties, and special districts, bonds paid for by increased property taxes typically require two-thirds of local voters to approve them. These are called general obligation bonds. PROPOSAL Proposition 5 changes the rules in the California Constitution for approving certain local government general obligation bonds. It also requires local governments to monitor the use of revenues in specific ways. Lowers Voter Approval Requirement for Certain Bonds. Proposition 5 lowers the voting requirement needed to approve local general obligation bonds if they would fund housing assistance or public infrastructure. Specifically, Proposition 5 lowers the voter approval requirement from two-thirds to 55 percent. Requires Specific Oversight Activities. Proposition 5 requires local governments to take specific steps to monitor the use of bond funds supporting housing assistance and public infrastructure. For example, local governments would need to conduct annual independent financial and performance audits. Citizens’ oversight committees also would be appointed to help supervise spending. FISCAL EFFECTS Certain Local Bonds More Likely to Pass. A lower voter approval requirement would make it easier to pass local general obligation bonds for housing assistance and public infrastructure. Recent local election results suggest that an additional 20 percent to 50 percent of local bond measures would have passed under Proposition 5’s lower voter approval requirement. Those measures would have raised a couple billion dollars over many years. A lower voter approval requirement also could mean local governments propose more measures. Increased Local Funding for Housing Assistance and Public Infrastructure. An increase in the approval of local bonds could increase funding available for housing assistance and public infrastructure. The amount of this increase is not clear. Based on recent trends, it could be at least a couple billion dollars over many years. The amount of the increase would vary across local governments. If local voters approve more bonds, local governments also would have more borrowing costs. These costs would be paid with higher property taxes. Ultimately, any future bond approval would depend on decisions by local governments and voters. Visit sos.ca.gov/campaign-lobbying/cal-access- resources/measure-contributions/2024- ballot-measure-contribution-totals for a list of committees primarily formed to support or oppose this measure. Visit fppc.ca.gov/transparency/ top-contributors.html to access the committee’s top 10 contributors. ALLOWS LOCAL BONDS FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND PUBLIC INFRASTRUCTURE WITH 55% VOTER APPROVAL. LEGISLATIVE CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT. PROPOSITION5 5 Attachment C 5 32 | Arguments Arguments printed on this page are the opinions of the authors and have not been checked for accuracy by any official agency. ★ ARGUMENT IN FAVOR OF PROPOSITION 5 ★ ★ REBUTTAL TO ARGUMENT IN FAVOR OF PROPOSITION 5 ★ NO ON PROP. 5: MORE GOVERNMENT DEBT AND HIGHER PROPERTY TAXES Politicians claim they need Prop. 5 to make it easier to pass bonds, but they don’t tell you bonds are not free. Bonds are debt. A $20 billion bond costs $30 billion to repay—and it’s paid off with higher property taxes. NO ON PROP. 5: A TRICK TO USE TAXPAYERS AS A CREDIT CARD The politicians in Sacramento turned a $100 billion surplus into a $73 billion deficit in just two years. Now, they want to use local taxpayers as a credit card to keep spending. They want you to pay for affordable housing and other “infrastructure” projects with higher property taxes. NO ON PROP. 5: LOOPHOLES THAT GO BEYOND “INFRASTRUCTURE” Politicians say Prop. 5 will build “infrastructure,” but the fine print defines “infrastructure” so broadly that it can include just about anything they want to fund on the backs of local taxpayers. NO ON PROP. 5: MORE WASTEFUL SPENDING Politicians say Prop. 5 is needed to build “affordable” housing, but they don’t tell you their version of affordable housing costs as much as $1 million per unit and comes with expensive state mandates. NO ON PROP. 5: HIGHER TAXES, HIGHER RENTS, HIGHER PRICES Since 1879, California has required a 2/3 majority approval to approve most bonds. Prop. 5 reduces that threshold—meaning more debt and higher property taxes for homeowners, higher rents for renters, higher costs to farmers, and higher prices for everything we buy and use. Don’t trust the politicians. Vote NO on Prop. 5. Jon Coupal, PresidentHoward Jarvis Taxpayers Association Rev. Dwight E. Williams, ChairmanCalifornia Senior Alliance Greg Van Dyke, PresidentCalifornia Consumer Advocates for Affordability and Safety VOTE YES ON PROP. 5 Prop. 5 gives local voters more control over funding for affordable housing and vital infrastructure projects including roads, bridges, local fire protection and water systems. Without raising taxes, Prop. 5 shifts local public policy decisions and spending priorities away from state government, giving local voters and taxpayers more tools, more power, and greater autonomy to address those issues in their own communities. PROP. 5: AFFORDABLE HOUSING FOR LOW‑ AND MIDDLE‑INCOME CALIFORNIANS We have a massive shortage of affordable housing for low‑ and middle‑income Californians. The high cost of housing consumes too much of our paychecks, and many middle‑class families are being pushed out of the communities where they work and where their children go to school. Prop. 5 gives local communities more tools to make housing more affordable, including: • Providing first‑time homebuyers’ programs; • Building new housing, including affordable for‑sale ownership and rental housing, for low‑ and middle‑income Californians, seniors, veterans, and homeless families; and • Renovating and repairing existing affordable housing. PROP. 5: LOCAL PROJECTS SUPPORTING NEW HOUSING AND SAFE COMMUNITIES In addition to affordable housing, Prop. 5 makes it easier for local voters who choose to invest in safety repairs and improvements to bridges, roads, public transportation, water systems, and other critical public infrastructure as they see fit. Local voters can also approve bonds for emergency preparedness, including local fire stations and engines, ambulances, and early‑warning systems for natural disasters. Prop. 5 trusts local voters to prioritize what’s most important in their communities. PROP. 5: LOCAL CONTROL. INCREASED ACCOUNTABILITY Prop. 5 does not raise taxes. It simply gives voters more power to address the unique needs of their communities without relying on the state, which has not met the challenges facing most California families. But with increased control, comes increased accountability, transparency, and oversight to ensure that these programs truly deliver results. To increase protection of local tax dollars, qualifying bond measures have strict accountability requirements including: • A clear list of the specific types of projects to be funded. • All funding must be spent to benefit the jurisdiction that approves the bonds, ensuring that local taxpayers benefit. • Caps on administrative costs so resources are used for the projects local taxpayers voted for. • Independent performance and financial audits of spending must be posted publicly and reviewed by the State Auditor. • Strict conflict of interest checks for local officials. • Oversight by an independent citizens committee. For years, local voters have known what challenges their communities face, and how best to address those issues. Voting Yes on Prop. 5 empowers local voters to make decisions about what their communities need, and makes it easier to solve those local problems, with less reliance on state government which has proven to be too slow and unable to address the critical needs of our individual communities. Prop. 5 trusts local voters to know what’s best for their own communities when faced with affordable housing shortages and other infrastructure challenges, and gives them the tools to invest in their own local solutions. Vote Yes on Prop. 5. Brian K. Rice, PresidentCalifornia Professional Firefighters Christopher Carson, PresidentLeague of Women Voters of California Leah Miller, ChairpersonHabitat for Humanity California PROPOSITION ALLOWS LOCAL BONDS FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND PUBLIC INFRASTRUCTURE WITH 55% VOTER APPROVAL. LEGISLATIVE CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT.5 Attachment C 5 Arguments printed on this page are the opinions of the authors and have not been checked for accuracy by any official agency. Arguments | 33 ★ ARGUMENT AGAINST PROPOSITION 5 ★ ★ REBUTTAL TO ARGUMENT AGAINST PROPOSITION 5 ★ YES ON PROP. 5 DOES NOT RAISE TAXES: Prop. 5 simply shifts local public policy decisions and spending priorities away from state government, giving local voters and taxpayers more tools and greater autonomy to address issues in their own communities. Unlike statewide bond measures, Prop. 5 requires that projects funded by local taxpayers must benefit local taxpayers, and gives more power to those communities that choose to use Prop. 5 to solve real problems. PROP. 5 IS NOT A BOND OR A TAX: Prop. 5 finally gives local communities the choice to address critical infrastructure needs if supported by a super‑majority of local voters. Whether it’s making it easier for first‑time homebuyers, seniors, veterans, and working families to afford housing, or fixing the local roads and bridges that families depend upon for safe travel to and from work and school, Prop. 5 empowers local voters to solve local problems. PROP. 5 REQUIRES INCREASED ACCOUNTABILITY: For those communities that choose to utilize Prop. 5, strict taxpayer protections will be mandatory, including: • A list of projects to be funded. • Caps on administrative costs and strict conflict of interest rules. • Independent audits made public, and a trained local citizens oversight committee. VOTE YES ON PROP. 5: Voters have always known what challenges their communities face and how best to address important issues including housing affordability, water systems, road repair, fire stations, and other critical infrastructure needs. Prop. 5 will empower local voters with the choice and the tools to solve those challenges. Daniel Parra, PresidentLeague of California Cities John Valencia, PresidentMiddle Class Taxpayers Association Michelle Gutierrez Vo, PresidentCalifornia Nurses Association NO ON PROP. 5: WRITTEN BY POLITICIANS TO INCREASE DEBT AND RAISE TAXES Prop. 5 changes the constitutional requirements that have existed for 145 years by reducing the voter approval requirements to pass bonds. Prop. 5 makes it easier for cities, counties, and special districts to increase property taxes to pay for our already massive debt levels in California. Increased debt, combined with skyrocketing interest rates, means HIGHER PROPERTY TAXES ultimately paid for by every Californian. NO ON PROP. 5: EVEN MORE UNSUSTAINABLE DEBT California already has more debt than any other state, with more than $500 billion in state and local debt. When this debt is added to the state’s total unfunded liabilities, it totals a staggering $1.6 TRILLION. Prop. 5 puts taxpayers on the hook for even more—saddling future generations with the bill! NO ON PROP. 5: HIGHER TAXES, HIGHER RENTS, HIGHER PRICES Bonds are not free money. Like a loan, mortgage, or credit card debt, bonds have to be paid back—with interest. Interest charges turn a $20 billion bond into a $30 billion tax after principal and interest—and TAXPAYERS PAY those costs through higher property taxes. Higher property taxes mean higher house payments for homeowners, higher rents for renters, higher costs to farmers, and higher prices for everything we buy since local businesses will have to pass their higher property taxes on to consumers. NO ON PROP. 5: SHIFTS STATE BURDEN TO LOCAL TAXPAYERS The politicians in Sacramento have made a mess with their financial mismanagement and wasteful spending, turning a $100 billion surplus into a $73 billion deficit with unsustainable spending. Prop. 5 allows politicians to cover up their mess by shifting the costs for state programs to local taxpayers. And Prop. 5 was written to define “infrastructure” so broadly that it can include just about anything the politicians and special interests want to fund on the backs of taxpayers. PROP. 5: BEWARE THE FINE PRINT The politicians who wrote Prop. 5 even snuck in a provision buried in the fine print that would make it RETROACTIVE—meaning that any bond passed this November would only need a lower vote total to pass. Normally, when voters approve a measure on the ballot, it doesn’t go into law until after the election results are certified. By making Prop. 5 retroactive, they hope to saddle taxpayers with billions in new taxes and debt immediately. That means taxpayers could see their property taxes skyrocket right away. NO ON PROP. 5: IT WILL MAKE EVERYTHING MORE EXPENSIVE Californians already struggle with the highest cost of living in the nation. We already pay the highest income, sales, and gas taxes in the country, and Prop. 5 will lead to even higher property taxes and higher costs for everyone. Homeowners will be hit with higher taxes, renters with higher rent, and consumers with higher prices on everything from food to gas and utilities to services. PROP. 5 will make everything more expensive when Californians can least afford it. NO on PROP. 5. Robert Gutierrez, PresidentCalifornia Taxpayers Association Julian Canete, PresidentCalifornia Hispanic Chambers of Commerce Kendra Moss, Advisory MemberWomen Veterans Alliance ALLOWS LOCAL BONDS FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND PUBLIC INFRASTRUCTURE WITH 55% VOTER APPROVAL. LEGISLATIVE CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT. PROPOSITION5 Attachment C August 29, 2024 To: CSAC Board of Directors From: Eric Lawyer, Legislative Advocate Stanicia Boatner, Legislative Analyst Re: Proposition 5: “Local Government Financing” (ACA 1 and ACA 10) – ACTION ITEM Recorded Support and Opposition to Proposition 5 Support Habitat for Humanity League of Women Voters of California California Professional Firefighters AARP Housing California California Federation of Teachers California Alliance for Jobs American Society of Civil Engineers State Building and Construction Trades Council of California California Labor Federation Middle Class Taxpayers Association Move LA California Nurses Association League of California Cities Non-Profit Housing Association of Northern California Southern California Association of Nonprofit Housing California Alliance for Retired Americans United Ways of California Bay Area Council PICO California Hundreds of other organizations representing seniors, veterans, working families, small businesses, housing advocates, and more. Opposition California Business Roundtable California Business Properties Association California Consumer Advocates for Affordability and Safety California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce California Senior Alliance California Republican Party California Taxpayers Association Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association Valley Industry and Commerce Association Women Veterans Alliance Attachment C Proposition 5: “Local Government Financing” (ACA 1 and ACA 10) CSAC Board of Directors Page 2 of 6 Recorded Support and Opposition to ACA 1 (Aguiar-Curry) Legislation Support California Professional Firefighters (co-sponsor) California State Building and Construction Trades Council (co-sponsor) AARP California Abode Communities Abundant Housing LA Affirmed Housing AIDS Healthcare Foundation All Home Alta Housing American Council of Engineering Companies, California American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, AFL-CIO American Planning Association American Society of Civil Engineers Associated General Contractors, California Chapter Association of Bay Area Governments – Metropolitan Transportation Commission Brilliant Corners California Alliance for Jobs California Asphalt Pavement Association California Association of Local Housing Finance Agencies California Association of Recreation and Park Districts California Association of Resource Conservation Districts California Conference of Carpenters California Construction and Industrial Materials Assoc. California Democratic Party California Fire Chiefs Association California Housing Consortium California Housing Partnership California IATSE Council California Labor Federation California Library Association California School Employees Association California Special Districts Association California State Association of Counties California State Association of Electrical Workers California State Council of Laborers California Stormwater Quality Association California Transit Association California YIMBY Canal Alliance Circulate San Diego City and County of San Francisco City of Alameda Attachment C Proposition 5: “Local Government Financing” (ACA 1 and ACA 10) CSAC Board of Directors Page 3 of 6 Support (continued) City of Belmont City of Emeryville City of Fremont City of Glendale City of Half Moon Bay City of Hayward City of Kingsburg City of Long Beach City of Oakland City of Palo Alto City of Petaluma City of Redwood City City of San Diego City of San Luis Obispo City of Santa Monica City of Santa Rosa City of Soledad City of Tulare City of Walnut Creek City of West Hollywood City of West Sacramento City of Winters CivicWell College Democrats of Sacramento State University Council of Community Housing Organizations County of Marin County of Mono County of Santa Clara County of Yolo Desert Recreation District Destination: Home Devine & Gong, Inc. District Hospital Leadership Forum EAH Housing East Bay for Everyone East Bay Housing Associations East Bay Municipal Utility District East Bay YIMBY Eden Housing Enterprise Evolve California Fire Districts Association of California Generation Housing Grow the Richmond Attachment C Proposition 5: “Local Government Financing” (ACA 1 and ACA 10) CSAC Board of Directors Page 4 of 6 Support (continued) Habitat for Humanity California Housing Crisis Action Housing Leadership Council of San Mateo County Housing Trust Silicon Valley How To ADU International Union of Operating Engineers, Cal-Nevada Conference League of California Cities League of Women Voters of California Local Initiatives Support Corporation Bay Area Mercy Housing California Metropolitan Transportation Commission MidPen Housing Corporation Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Mission Housing Development Corporation Monterey Bay Economic Partnership Mountain View YIMBY Move LA Mutual Housing California Napa-Solano for Everyone Non-Profit Housing Association of Northern California Nor Cal Carpenters Union North Bay Leadership Council Northern Neighbors Old Valley Homes and Loans PATH Peninsula Corridor Joint Powers Board Peninsula for Everyone People for Housing Orange County Professional Engineers in California Government Progress Noe Valley Public Policy Advocates Rebuild SoCal Partnership Regional Asthma Management and Prevention Resources for Community Development Rural County Representatives of California San Francisco Bay Area Planning and Urban Research Association San Francisco Foundation San Francisco Housing Accelerator Fund San Francisco Housing Development Corporation San Francisco YIMBY San Joaquin Valley Housing Collaborative San Luis Obispo YIMBY San Mateo County Transit District San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District Attachment C Proposition 5: “Local Government Financing” (ACA 1 and ACA 10) CSAC Board of Directors Page 5 of 6 Support (continued) Santa Clara Valley Water District Santa Cruz YIMBY Santa Rosa YIMBY Save the Bay Seifel Consulting, Inc. Sierra Business Council SLO Co YIMBY Solano Transportation Authority Sonoma County Area Agency on Aging South Bay YIMBY South Side Forward Southern California Contractors Association St. Mary’s Center State Building and Construction Trades Council of California Streets for People SV@HomeActionFund Tenderloin Neighborhood Development Corp. Transportation California Tri-Valley Cities of Dublin, Livermore, Pleasanton, San Ramon, and the Town of Danville United Contractors United Way Bay Area Urban Counties of California Urban Environmentalists Valley Water Ventura County YIMBY Washington Hospital Healthcare System Western Center on Law and Poverty Western Regional Association for Pavement Preservation YIMBY Action Opposition Affordable Housing Management Association – Pacific Southwest Alameda County Taxpayers Association Apartment Association of Greater Los Angeles Apartment Association of Orange County Apartment Owners Association of America, California Building Owners and Managers Association California Association of Realtors California Attractions and Parks Association California Business Properties Association California Cattlemen’s Association California Chamber of Commerce California Independent Petroleum Association California Land Title Association Attachment C Proposition 5: “Local Government Financing” (ACA 1 and ACA 10) CSAC Board of Directors Page 6 of 6 Opposition (continued) California Manufacturers and Technology Association California Railroads California Rental Housing Association California Retailers Association California Self Storage Association California Taxpayer Association California Taxpayer Protection Committee Catalysts for Local Control Central Coast Taxpayers Association Central Valley Taxpayers Association Coalition of Labor, Agriculture, and Business, Santa Barbara County Coalition of Sensible Taxpayers Contra Costa Taxpayers Association East Bay Rental Housing Association Escrow Institute of California Family Business Association of California Glendora Chamber of Commerce Greater San Fernando Valley Chamber of Commerce Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association Kern County Taxpayers Association Laguna Niguel Chamber of Commerce NAIOP: Commercial Real Estate Development Association National Federation of Independent Businesses Orange County Business Council Orange County Taxpayers Association Placer County Taxpayers Association San Diego Tax Fighters San Gabriel Valley Economic Partnership Silicon Valley Leadership Group Silicon Valley Taxpayers Association Solano County Taxpayers Association Southern California Rental Housing Association Sutter County Taxpayers Association United Hospital Association Valley Industry and Commerce Association Ventura County Taxpayers Association Western Manufactured Housing Communities Association Attachment C 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2691 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/26/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:ADOPT a position of "Support" on Proposition 4, The Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire Prevention, Drought Preparedness, and Clean Air Bond act of 2024; a position of "Support" on Proposition 5, Local Government Financing; and a position of "Support" on Proposition 35, Provides Permanent Funding for Medi-Cal Health Care Services, as recommended by the Legislation Committee. Attachments:, , Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Legislation Committee Report Title:Adopt Support Positions on Propositions 4, 5 and 35 ☐Recommendation of the County Administrator ☒ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: ADOPT a position of “Support” on Proposition 4, The Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire Prevention, Drought Preparedness, and Clean Air Bond Act of 2024 (the “Climate Bond”). ADOPT a position of “Support” on Proposition 5, Local government financing: affordable housing and public infrastructure: voter approval. ADOPT a position of “Support” on Proposition 35, Provides Permanent Funding for Medi-Cal Health Care Services. FISCAL IMPACT: Proposition 4: According to the Legislative Analyst’s Office (LAO), the estimated cost to repay the bond would be about $400 million annually over a 40-year period. Payments would be made from the state General Fund. This would be less than one-half of 1 percent of the state’s total General Fund budget. Since the state has to pay interest on the money it borrows, the total cost of the bond would be about 10 percent more (after adjusting for inflation) than if the state paid up front. The LAO predicts the climate bond would result in reduced local costs for natural resources and climate related activities. This is because local governments could receive funding for some essential facilities locals would otherwise need to fund themselves, such as for wastewater treatment. Alternatively, the LAO theorizes the availability of funding could encourage local governments to spend more money and build larger projects than CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 7 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2691,Version:1 they otherwise would, such as adding additional amenities to a local park. Additionally, investments made toward completing activities that reduce the risk or amount of damage from disasters could reduce state and local costs for responding to and recovering from those events. Overall, the LAO predicts net savings to local governments. Proposition 5: According to the LAO, a lower voter approval requirement would make it easier to pass local general obligation bonds for housing assistance and public infrastructure. A lower voter approval requirement also could mean local governments propose more measures. An increase in the approval of local bonds could increase funding available for housing assistance and public infrastructure. The amount of this increase is not clear. Borrowing would be repaid with higher property taxes. Proposition 35: According to the LAO, in the short term, increased funding for Medi-Cal and other health programs between roughly $2 billion and $5 billion annually (including federal funds). Increased state costs between roughly $1 billion to $2 billion annually to implement funding increases. In the long term, unknown effect on state tax revenue, health program funding, and state costs. Fiscal effects depend on many factors, such as whether the Legislature would continue to approve the tax on health plans in the future if Proposition 35 is not passed by voters. BACKGROUND: June 27 marked the final deadline for proponents of citizen-led initiatives to withdraw their ballot measures from appearing on the November ballot. A summary table of the qualified ballot measures, including links to the measures, prepared by the California State Association of Counties (CSAC) is Attachment A. Note: Assembly Constitutional Amendment (ACA) 13 has been moved to the November 2026 ballot as a result of the passage of Assembly Bill 440. ACA 13 will require any constitutional amendment proposed by initiative, that increases a voter approval threshold for future measures, be approved by the same proportion of votes cast as the measure would require. At their August 12, 2024 meeting, the Legislation Committee (Chair Burgis/Vice Chair Carlson) considered the 10 measures that have qualified for the November 5, 2024 general election ballot. The Legislation Committee made recommendations to the Board of Supervisors to adopt a position of “Support” on Propositions 4, 5, and 35. Proposition 4: Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire Prevention, Drought Preparedness, and Clean Air Bond Act of 2024 (the “Climate Bond”) After much consideration and negotiation by both houses of the Legislature, SB 867 (Allen), the Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire Prevention, Drought Preparedness, and Clean Air Bond Act of 2024, was passed and signed on July 3, 2024, narrowly meeting an extended deadline for the Legislature to place a bill on the ballot. On July 3, the Secretary of State assigned the legislative measure Proposition 4 on the ballot. The measure is referred to as the “Climate Bond.” This ballot measure would allocate $10 billion in state general obligation bond funding for climate related programs. If the bond passes, broad category amounts would be dedicated as listed below, with key sub- allocations noted. •$3.8 billion for safe drinking water, drought, flood, and water resilience programs o $1.88 billion for water supply and water quality CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 7 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2691,Version:1 o $1.14 billion for flood risk and stormwater management o $605 million for watershed restoration and protection • $1.5 billion for wildfire and forest resilience programs o $1.2 billion for local fire prevention capacity and improvements to forest health and resilience o $135 million for the Wildfire Mitigation Grant Program • $1.2 billion for coastal resilience programs o $415 million for coastal resilience projects and programs o $50 million to implement the Sea Level Rise Adaptation Strategy •$1.2 billion for biodiversity protection and nature-based climate solution programs o $870 million for grant programs to protect and enhance fish and wildlife resources o $320 million toward specified conservancies •$850 million for clean energy air programs o $475 million for offshore wind development o $325 million for clean energy transmission projects •$700 million for park creation and outdoor access programs o $200 million for outdoor recreation opportunities - including county parks o $200 million for the creation, expansion, and renovation of safe neighborhood parks •$450 million for extreme heat mitigation programs o $40 million to fairgrounds for modifications/upgrades that provide community resilience o $60 million for the creation of community resilience centers (includes fairgrounds) •$300 million for climate-smart, sustainable, and resilient farms, ranches, and working lands programs o $105 million for improvements in climate resilience of agricultural lands o $15 million for projects for the protection, restoration, conservation, and enhancement of farmland and rangeland Notably, 40% of funding will be required to go toward disadvantaged communities. It is also worth noting that bonds may only be used for capital purposes. Some of the funding that would be made available to local governments through the bonds requires a local cost share or loan repayments. Prop. 4 requires regular public reporting of how the bond money is spent. The 2024 State Budget Act contained a series of reductions to climate-based programs including funds that were appropriated in previous budget years but had not yet been expended. The Climate Bond was formulated in anticipation of cuts, though it is not a one-to-one restoration of cuts in the final budget. The last natural resources bond to pass with approval of the voters was in 2018 - Proposition 68 - which allocated funding to parks, natural resources protection, climate adaptation, water quality and supply, and flood protection. In 2014, California voters passed Proposition 1 which allocated $7.1 billion toward funding for water quality, supply, treatment, and storage projects. According to the California Natural Resources Agency’s bond accountability website, approximately $40 million from Prop. 1 and $145.4 million of Prop. 68 remain uncommitted. The County’s adopted State Legislative Platform for 2023-24 contains the following advocacy priority: Advocate for and support resource/resilience bonds and Contra Costa County specific projects in the bond measure(s). At their August 28, 2024 meeting, CSAC’s Board of Directors took a position of “Support” on Proposition 4. Detailed sub-allocations and listed supporters of SB 867 (Allen) are included in Attachment B. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 3 of 7 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2691,Version:1 Proposition 5: “Local Government Financing” (ACA 1 and ACA 10) This constitutional amendment would reduce the voter approval threshold from two-thirds to 55% for general obligation bonds that fund public infrastructure, affordable housing projects, and permanent supportive housing for persons at risk of chronic homelessness-and any associated ad valorem taxes needed to pay the interest and redemption charges on bonded indebtedness. ACA 1 was passed by the Legislature in 2023 and set for the November 2024 ballot. Since then, the measure has been amended through two separate legislative vehicles, with one needed to make constitutional amendments, ACA 10, and another to make statutory changes, AB 2813. ACA 10 significantly amended ACA 1 by removing its application of a reduced 55% vote requirement to special taxes used to support affordable housing, permanent supportive housing, and public infrastructure. Instead, due to the passage of ACA 10, ACA 1 would only reduce vote requirements for general obligation bonds used to support affordable housing, permanent supportive housing, and public infrastructure-and any associated ad valorem taxes needed to pay the interest and redemption charges on bonded indebtedness. AB 2813 made a series of technical amendments to the statutory provisions of ACA 1, including specifying accountability requirements for ACA 1 bonded indebtedness, clarifying the role of the State Auditor in reviewing ACA 1 audits, clarifying the roles and responsibilities of citizens’ oversight committees on ACA 1 projects, and providing some restrictions on the uses of ACA 1 projects. Notably, those restrictions would clarify that ACA 1 funds cannot be used to acquire or lease real property with one to four dwelling units or to finance the reconstruction or rehabilitation of a sports arena. AB 2813 was passed by the Legislature on July 3, 2024. The County’s adopted State Legislative Platform for 2023-24 contains the following related policy:SUPPORT a reduction in the 2/3rd vote requirement to 55% voter approval for locally-approved special taxes that fund health, education, economic, stormwater services, library, transportation and/or public safety programs and services. (p. 15) The County took a “Support” position on ACA 1 (Aguiar Curry) in 2021and 2023. The County also requested an amendment to ACA 1 in 2023 to include stormwater management projects, alongside sewer, water, and refuse collection, as stipulated in SB 231 (Hertzberg). CSAC’s Board of Directors took a position of “Support” on Proposition 5 at their August 29 meeting. For additional information about this measure, see Attachment C, which includes a summary of the measure from the Secretary of State, along with the list of those supporting and opposing the measure, prepared by CSAC staff. Proposition 35: “Provides Permanent Funding for Medi-Cal Health Care Services” The Managed Care Organization (MCO) tax is a tax on managed care organizations based on health insurance enrollment in the Medi-Cal program and in the commercial sector. The 2023 Budget Act, with federal approval, authorized the MCO tax from April 2023 to December 2026. The MCO tax revenues offset General Fund spending in the existing Medi-Cal program and support program augmentations. This initiative would make the MCO tax permanent, subject to federal approval, and would limit the structure of the tax, and would establish specific uses for the tax revenue. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 4 of 7 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2691,Version:1 The County’s adopted State Legislative Platform includes the following related policies:SUPPORT state action to increase health care access and affordability. SUPPORT Medi-Cal reimbursement rate increases to incentivize providers to participate in the program. SUPPORT actions that would preserve the nature and quality and continuity of care associated with safety net services historically provided at the local level . California’s Medi-Cal Program Medi-Cal is California's Medicaid program. Medicaid is a federal public health insurance program which provides health care services for low-income individuals and families. Medicaid is administered by states (then delegated to counties in California) and funded jointly between the federal government and states. In 2024, there are an estimated 14.5 million Californians enrolled in Medi-Cal. A majority of Medi-Cal beneficiaries are enrolled in managed care plans. “Managed care” is a health care delivery system in which state Medicaid agencies (for California, this is the Department of Health Care Services) contract with managed care organizations (e.g., Kaiser Permanente, Anthem Blue Cross). Managed care organizations accept capitation payments (per person, per month payments) for delivering health benefits to individuals enrolled in Medi-Cal. In total, the 2024 Budget Act includes $161 billion ($35 billion state General Fund) for the Medi-Cal program in 2024-25. The 2024 Budget Act also includes nearly $7 billion of MCO tax revenues in 2024-25 to support the Medi-Cal program (i.e., offsetting state General Fund expenditures by $6.9 billion). The balance of the MCO tax revenues are allocated for Medi-Cal provider rate increases (increased reimbursement for, amongst other things, primary care physicians, women’s health services, and ground emergency transport services) and other health care investments. The state and stakeholders are consistently engaged regarding the appropriate use of the MCO tax revenues (level of offsetting existing General Fund cost pressures vs. augmentations for the Medi-Cal program). History and Structure of the MCO Tax According to the Department of Health Care Services (DHCS), “the MCO tax is used as a mechanism to generate new state funds that can be used to match with federal funds to bring additional federal Medicaid dollars to California.” California’s MCO tax has existed in various forms for limited durations beginning in 2005. Today, the MCO tax is a tax on managed care organizations based on health insurance enrollment in the Medi-Cal program and in the commercial sector. PROVISIONS OF PROPOSITION 35 Composed of 43 pages, Proposition 35 considerably diverts from the state’s status quo and makes significant changes to the allowable expenditures of MCO tax revenue, while mostly maintaining the 2023 Budget Act structure of the levied tax. The bulleted information below captures the most significant components and requirements of Proposition 35. Structure and Implementation of the MCO Tax ·Makes the MCO tax permanent. ·Requires DHCS to employ the models and methodologies used to structure the MCO tax as included in the 2023 Budget Act in perpetuity, to the extent permitted by federal law. ·Places a cap on the per enrollee tax amount assessed on commercial plans and aggregate tax amount - aside from an adjustment every five years for the CPI. Authorizes an increase to the capped amounts - and limits the increase to no more than 10 percent - if necessary to comply with federal law/regulations, secure federal financial participation, or obtain federal approval. Federal Considerations CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 5 of 7 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2691,Version:1 ·Requires DHCS to seek federal approval necessary to implement Proposition 35. ·Requires DHCS to attempt to maximize the amount of federal matching funds available to California. ·Specifies that Proposition 35 is only operative during periods of federal approval. ·Allows DHCS to modify provisions of Proposition 35 if necessary to obtain federal approval of the MCO tax, within specified limitations. Appropriation of MCO Tax Revenues During Calendar Years 2025 and 2026: ·Appropriates $4.7 billion MCO tax revenues each year for 12 specified purposes, including but not limited to: Medi-Cal managed care rates for primary care services, women’s health services, ground emergency transport services, and designated public hospitals. Beginning January 1, 2027: ·Assumes at least $4.3 billion in MCO tax revenues annually. ·Creates a layered formula for allocation of MCO tax revenues, including creating more than 18 new state subfunds, accounts, or subaccounts. ·Each account and subaccount includes specific, distinct requirements for revenue expenditure. Oversight and Accountability ·Requires the State Controller’s Office to audit DHCS and programs receiving MCO tax revenues every four years. ·Prohibits borrowing or loan of the MCO tax revenues to the state’s General Fund or any other state account, with limited exceptions. ·Prohibits using MCO tax revenue to supplant any other state revenues. ·Requires DHCS to make every reasonable effort to obligate or expend all MCO tax revenues annually, beginning January 1, 2027. ·Requires DHCS to publish an annual compliance report for use of the MCO tax revenues, which will be independently reviewed by the State Controller’s Office. The State Controller’s Office will publish a separate report evaluating DHCS’ compliance. ·Establishes the Protect Access to Healthcare Act Stakeholder Advisor Committee within DHCS to research and analyze best practices for the development and implementation of Proposition 35 by DHCS. ·Requires DHCS to consult with the Stakeholder Advisory Committee to implement the components of Proposition 35, including the design of payment methodologies. Administrative and Legislative Considerations ·Excludes MCO tax revenue expenditures from the state’s calculations pursuant to the State Appropriations Limit (also known as the “Gann Limit”). ·Provides that if the Legislature introduces a bill to amend Proposition 35 it must receive a ¾ majority vote. Public Hospitals California’s 21 public health care systems (PHS) include county-owned or affiliated systems and the five University of California academic medical centers. Together, these systems operate in 15 counties and play an important role in supporting the state’s health care safety net. It should be noted the vast majority of PHS funding is self-financed across a wide array of Medi-Cal subprograms, and their governmental status enables PHS to contribute the non-federal share of costs in place of the state. Public hospitals have been experiencing financing challenges due to low Medi-Cal base payments, which most public hospitals cannot make up through CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 6 of 7 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2691,Version:1 commercial insurance payors, and supplemental payments have not kept up with the growth in the Medi-Cal program. Both the 2024 Budget Act and Proposition 35 include funding increases for some services/providers that will be received by public hospitals, however, Proposition 35 additionally includes dedicated funding for these designated public hospitals. Recorded Support Coalition to Protect Access to Care (Sponsor) which includes but is not limited to the California Medical Association, California Association of Hospitals and Health Systems, Global Medical Response, California Hospital Association, and Planned Parenthood. Recorded Opposition At the August 13 joint initiative hearing on Proposition 35 of the Senate and Assembly Health Committees, the Children’s Partnership spoke in opposition to the measure. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: The County will not have an official position on the measures for the November 5, 2024 general election ballot. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 7 of 7 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2692 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/12/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute on behalf of the Director of Child Support Services, a purchase order with Opex Corporation in an amount not to exceed $16,051 for a suite of barcode licenses for mail processing machines for the period May 28, 2024 through July 31, 2025. (66% Federal, 34% State) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Lori Cruz, Child Support Services Director Report Title:Purchase Order with Opex Corporation ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute on behalf of the Director of Child Support Services, a purchase order with Opex Corporation in an amount not to exceed $16,051 for suite of barcode for mail processing machine and licensing for the period May 28, 2024, through July 31, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: This project will be fully funded by allocations from the Federal Government at 66% and the State of California at 34%. BACKGROUND: The Department of Child Support Services utilizes Opex Corporation to automate and disseminate mail received by the department. The software facilitates effective operations and simplifies the complexities of running a high volume mailroom. This helps in supporting communication and facilitation of child support services available in Contra Costa County. The Master Maintenance Agreement of the purchase order include a Limitation of Liability and Indemnification provision approved by County Counsel. This Purchase Order is late due to staff shortages in Child Support’s administration. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2692,Version:1 If this action is not approved, the department will have difficulty completing business operations for Child Support Services. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2693 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/26/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute on behalf of the Director of Child Support Services, a purchase order with e-OSCAR in an amount not to exceed $3,000 for web credit reporting services for the period January 1, 2024, through December 31, 2027. (66% Federal, 34% State) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Lori Cruz, Child Support Services Director Report Title:Purchase Order with e-OSCAR ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute on behalf of the Director of Child Support Services, a purchase order with e-OSCAR in an amount not to exceed $3,000 for web credit reporting services for the period January 1, 2024, through December 31, 2027. FISCAL IMPACT: This project will be fully funded by allocations from the Federal Government at 66% and the State of California at 34%. BACKGROUND: The Department of Child Support Services utilizes e-OSCAR to resolve disputes for customer credit history. The automated system enables DCSS to create and respond to consumer credit history disputes. This program is a required tool by the State Department of Child Support Services. The Terms and Conditions of the purchase order include a Limitation of Liability and Indemnification provision approved by County Counsel. This purchase order is late due to staff shortages in Child Support’s administration. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2693,Version:1 If this action is not approved, the department will not be able to resolve consumer credit history disputes . CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:1RES 2024- 295 Name: Status:Type:Consent Resolution Passed File created:In control:7/24/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:ADOPT Resolution No. 2024-295 proclaiming the Month of September, 2024 as National Recovery Month in Contra Costa County, as recommended by Supervisor Carlson. Attachments:, Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally adoptedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Ken Carlson, District IV Supervisor Report Title:Proclaiming the Month of September, 2024 as National Recovery Month in Contra Costa County ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: ADOPT resolution proclaiming the Month of September, 2024 as National Recovery Month in Contra Costa County FISCAL IMPACT: None. BACKGROUND: See resolution. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: None. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 3 powered by Legistar™ File #:RES 2024-295,Version:1 The Board of Supervisors of Contra Costa County, California IN THE MATTER OF proclaiming the Month of September, 2024 as National Recovery Month in Contra Costa County WHEREAS,behavioral health is an essential part of health and one’s overall wellness; and WHEREAS, prevention of alcohol and other drug use disorders works, treatment is effective, and people recover in our area and around the nation; and WHEREAS, preventing and overcoming alcohol and other drug disorders is essential to achieving healthy lifestyles, both physically and emotionally; and WHEREAS, we must encourage relatives and friends of people with alcohol and other drug disorders to implement preventive measures, recognize the signs of a problem, and guide those in need to appropriate treatment and recovery support services like housing, employment, education, vocational rehab; and WHEREAS, to help more people achieve and sustain long-term recovery, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP), and Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors invite all residents of Contra Costa County to participate in National Recovery Month and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED:that the Board of Supervisors, do hereby proclaim the Month of September 2024 as NATIONAL RECOVERY MONTH in Contra Costa County and call upon the people of Contra Costa County to observe this month with appropriate programs, activities, and ceremonies to support this year’s Recovery theme, Recovery is for Everyone: Every Person, Every Family, Every Community. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 3 powered by Legistar™ File #:RES 2024-295,Version:1 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 3 of 3 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:1RES 2024- 296 Name: Status:Type:Consent Resolution Passed File created:In control:8/7/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:ADOPT Resolution No. 2024-296 declaring September 2024 as Workforce Development Month in Contra Costa County, as recommended by the Employment and Human Services Director. Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally adoptedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Marla Stuart, Employment and Human Services Director Report Title:Proclaim September 2024 as Workforce Development Month ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: ADOPT a resolution declaring September 2024 as Workforce Development Month. FISCAL IMPACT: There will be no fiscal impact for this action. BACKGROUND: Created in 2005 by the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP), Workforce Development Month raises awareness about the importance of the workforce industry to a growing national economy. Originally celebrated in May, NAWDP moved the designation to September in 2012. The highly skilled workforce development professionals at the Workforce Development Board of Contra Costa County (WDBCCC) provide critical links in our community between businesses looking to hire jobseekers, and education, training and support resources. WDBCCC’s programs bring value and services to our community members and support our local economy. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: None. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 3 powered by Legistar™ File #:RES 2024-296,Version:1 CHILDREN’S IMPACT STATEMENT This resolution supports all five of Contra Costa County’s community outcomes of the Children’s Report Card: (1) “Children Ready for and Succeeding in School”; (2) “Children and Youth Healthy and Preparing for Productive Adulthood”; (3) “Families that are Economically Self-Sufficient”; (4) “Families that are Safe, Stable, and Nurturing”; and (5) “Communities that are Safe and Provide a High Quality of Life for Children and Families.” The Board of Supervisors of Contra Costa County, California IN THE MATTER OF proclaiming September 2024 as Workforce Development Month in Contra Costa County WHEREAS,Workforce Development Month is a nationwide celebration in September to showcase the opportunities that Workforce Development offers for Americans to develop workplace experience and skills that employers value; and WHEREAS, Workforce Development Month is a time to recognize, honor, and promote the contributions of our nation’s workforce professionals; and WHEREAS, the Workforce Development Board of Contra Costa County (WDBCCC), part of the Employment and Human Services Department, aims to achieve equitable economic growth for our region; and WHEREAS, during Fiscal Year 2023-24, WDBCCC served more than 2,295 businesses and approximately 6,024 individuals, of whom 5,384 received basic career services, and 1,040 received individualized career services through Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) programs; and WHEREAS, ensuring a steady pipeline of diverse workforce talent to help keep local companies competitive while creating upward economic mobility and security for Contra Costa workers is critically important during a time when many communities across the country face economic challenges; and WHEREAS, workforce development stands as a powerful driver of economic progress; for every dollar invested in workforce development programs, there is an estimated return of $4.41 in increased productivity and decreased social assistance costs (National Association of Workforce Development Professionals); and WHEREAS, there are 6.1 million unemployed Americans, yet employers across the country report that they struggle to find qualified workers to fill the 8.1 million current job openings; and WHEREAS, workforce development professionals help connect employers with jobseekers and jobseekers with training resources to bridge the gap between unemployment and job openings; and WHEREAS, workforce development and job training programs, services, strategic connections, and partnerships that the WDBCCC uses to solve complex workforce issues and leverage public-private resources to contribute to our region's economic competitiveness ultimately improve the quality of life for all who live in Contra Costa County. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Supervisors proclaims September 2024 as CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 3 powered by Legistar™ File #:RES 2024-296,Version:1 Workforce Development Month in Contra Costa County to honor all individuals in Workforce Development organizations and partnerships that play such a vital role in strengthening our economy. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 3 of 3 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:1RES 2024- 297 Name: Status:Type:Consent Resolution Passed File created:In control:8/21/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:ADOPT Resolution No. 2024-297 in honor of Donald A Nielsen on the occasion of his retirement from Contra Costa County, as recommended by the Department of Information Technology Director. Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally adoptedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Marc Shorr, Information Technology Director Report Title:Recognizing Donald A. Nielsen on the occasion of his retirement from Contra Costa County, as recommended by the Department of Information Technology ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: ADOPT Resolution No.24- in honor of Donald A. Nielsen on the occasion of his retirement from Contra Costa County, as recommended by the Department of Information Technology. FISCAL IMPACT: N/A BACKGROUND: N/A CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: N/A CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 3 powered by Legistar™ File #:RES 2024-297,Version:1 The Board of Supervisors of Contra Costa County, California IN THE MATTER OF Honoring Donald A. Nielsen upon the occasion of his 42 years of service to Contra Costa County. WHEREAS, Donald A. Nielsen began his career with Contra Costa County as a Programmer I for Contra Costa County Auditor-Controller on September 1, 1981, after earning an Associate of Arts degree from Diablo Valley College; and WHEREAS, Mr. Nielsen was promoted to the Programmer II position on September 1, 1982; and WHEREAS, Mr. Nielsen expanded his education by achieving a Bachelor of Science from Cal State Hayward in June 1989 in Computer Science; and WHEREAS, Mr. Nielsen was recognized by the Office of the County Administrator Data Processing Services for his contribution to the success of the 1994 Retirement Statement tape; and WHEREAS, Mr. Nielsen then retitled to the Information Systems Programmer/Analyst II position on May 1, 1998, with the Contra Costa County Department of Information Technology; and WHEREAS, Mr. Nielsen has served in the Law and Justice Information Systems Unit (formerly under the Systems and Programming Unit of the Department of Information Technology) in numerous capacities and as a result has improved the Department’s operations and service capacity; and WHEREAS, Mr. Nielsen was thanked in 2010 by the Office of the Sheriff Technical Services Division Records and ID unit for his work as part of the team whose direct work helped Contra Costa County criminal justice agencies meet the compliance procedures of the Department of Justice Wanted Persons System; and CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 3 powered by Legistar™ File #:RES 2024-297,Version:1 WHEREAS, Contra Costa County Department of Information Technology staff celebrate Mr. Nielsen’s contributions to performing his duties in accordance with the values of his department’s mission through his dedicated work performance and outstanding work ethic; and WHEREAS, Mr. Nielsen was celebrated by Contra Costa County in 2021 for 40 years of service to the County; and WHEREAS, Mr. Nielsen in 2023 was part of the team that successfully separated Contra Costa County’s court systems from the County’s mainframe system; and WHEREAS, Mr. Nielsen remained a valued resource, dedicated staff member, a wealth of knowledge and information and model employee for the Contra Costa County Department of Information Technology until his retirement in 2024. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: That Donald A. Nielsen be recognized upon his retirement after nearly 43 years of dedicated service to Contra Costa County and for the high quality of work performed during his career. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 3 of 3 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:1RES 2024- 298 Name: Status:Type:Consent Resolution Passed File created:In control:9/3/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:ADOPT Resolution No. 2024-298 to recognize and honor Dan Pellegrini for a lifetime of outstanding and distinguished community service to the residents and natural resources of Contra Costa County, as recommended by Supervisor Glover. Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally adoptedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Federal D. Glover, District V Supervisor Report Title:RESOLUTION HONORING DAN PELLEGRINI FOR COUNTY AND COMMUNITY SERVICE ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: ADOPT a resolution to recognize and honor Dan Pellegrini for a lifetime of outstanding and distinguished community service to the residents and natural resources of Contra Costa County. FISCAL IMPACT: n/a BACKGROUND: n/a CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: n/a CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 3 powered by Legistar™ File #:RES 2024-298,Version:1 The Board of Supervisors of Contra Costa County, California IN THE MATTER OF RECOGNIZING AND HONORING DAN PELLEGRINI FOR A LIFETIME OF OUTSTANDING AND DISTINGUISHED COMMUNITY SERVICE TO THE RESIDENTS AND NATURAL RESOURCES OF CONTRA COSTA COUNTY WHEREAS,Dan Pellegrini was born in 1945 in Martinez, California, where his family has deep roots extending back 150 years; and WHEREAS,after graduating from high school in 1964, Dan began his career with the City of Martinez before joining County Public Works in 1966, where he transitioned from a temporary position to a permanent role on January 10, 1967; and WHEREAS,Dan dedicated a remarkable 38 years to serving Contra Costa County through his career with the Contra Costa County Public Works Department, retiring in 2004; and WHEREAS, Dan was appointed by Nancy Fahden to his first political role as a commissioner for the Alhambra Watershed Advisory Board Zone 5 and has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication to community service; and WHEREAS,Dan has generously contributed his time and expertise as an honorary member and chief cook for the Martinez Sportsmen’s Club, as a Trustee of the Contra Costa Mosquito & Vector Control District, as barbecue captain for the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Posse, as a Director for the Contra Costa Water District Board, as a member of the East Bay Regional Park District Park Advisory Committee, and as a Senior Reserve Fire Fighter for Contra Costa County; and WHEREAS,Dan’s extraordinary service on the Contra Costa County Fish and Wildlife Committee since 1982, reflecting 42 years of commitment (most of the time as Chair), has been instrumental in the awarding of over $1,825,000 for community projects aimed at protecting, conserving, and preserving fish and wildlife through the annual Fish and Wildlife Propagation Fund Grant program; and WHEREAS,the Fish & Wildlife Committee organizes and annually sponsors the Contra Costa County Fish and Wildlife Fall Forum, providing an opportunity to learn more about the fish and wildlife resources of Contra Costa County and efforts of the many individuals and organizations to protect and conserve these resources; and WHEREAS,the Fish & Wildlife Committee also developed and distributed the “Wildlife in Your Backyard Brochure” to educate County residents on managing wildlife in urban environments; and CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 3 powered by Legistar™ File #:RES 2024-298,Version:1 WHEREAS,Dan is well-known for his generosity in volunteering his time and culinary talents, barbecuing for various events throughout the county, and is known for his engaging storytelling that reflects his rich experiences and deep community connections; and WHEREAS,Dan’s colorful past includes 16 seasons of commercial salmon fishing in Bristol Bay, Alaska, and he is a member of the Friends of Isola delle Femmine, an organization dedicated to preserving Italian heritage, and the Martinez Historical Society; and WHEREAS,in his free time, Dan enjoys socializing at the Martinez Marina and having daily phone conversations with his children and grandchildren, and has recently become a great-grandfather; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors hereby recognizes and honors Dan Pellegrini for his remarkable lifetime of service to Contra Costa County. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 3 of 3 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2694 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:7/16/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:ACCEPT the resignation of Michael Castillo, DECLARE a vacancy in the Alternate #1 seat on the Advisory Council on Aging for term ending on September 30, 2025, and DIRECT the Clerk of the Board to post the vacancy, as recommended by the Employment and Human Services Director. Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Marla Stuart, Employment and Human Services Director Report Title:Advisory Council on Aging Vacancies ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: ACCEPT the resignation of Michael Castillo, DECLARE a vacancy of the Alternate #1 seat on the Advisory Council on Aging for term ending on September 30, 2025, and DIRECT the Clerk of the Board to post the vacancy, as recommended by the Employment and Human Services Director. FISCAL IMPACT: There is no fiscal impact for this action. BACKGROUND: Michael Castillo was appointed by the Board of Supervisors as the Alternate #1 representative on the Advisory Council on Aging (ACOA) on March 5, 2024, with a term ending on September 30, 2025. The ACOA is mandated by the Older Americans to advise the Area Agency on Aging on the development and implementation of a county wide plan for aging. The ACOA works as an advocate for adults, adults with disabilities and caregivers in Contra Costa County and serves as a channel of communication about information on aging. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Should the proposed action not be approved by the Board of Supervisors, the seats will not be declared vacant and new appointments to the positions would not be able to be made. This could cause issues with achieving quorum for the Council and potentially impact their ability to hold meetings. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2694,Version:1 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2695 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:7/23/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:ACCEPT the resignation of Sara Shafiabady, DECLARE a vacancy in the Member At Large #4 seat on the Advisory Council on Aging for term ending on September 30, 2024, and DIRECT the Clerk of the Board to post the vacancy, as recommended by the Employment and Human Services Director. Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Marla Stuart, Employment and Human Services Director Report Title:Advisory Council on Aging Vacancies ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: ACCEPT the resignation of Sara Shafiabady, DECLARE a vacancy in the Member At Large #4 seat on the Advisory Council on Aging for term ending on September 30, 2024, and DIRECT the Clerk of the Board to post the vacancy, as recommended by the Employment and Human Services Director. FISCAL IMPACT: There is no fiscal impact for this action. BACKGROUND: Sara Shafiabady was appointed by the Board of Supervisors as the Member At Large #4 representative on the Advisory Council on Aging (ACOA) on September 15, 2020, with a term ending on September 30, 2024. The Advisory Council on Aging provides county-wide planning, cooperation, and coordination for individuals and groups interested in improving and developing services and opportunities for older residents of the County. ACOA provides leadership and advocacy on behalf of older people and serves as a channel of communication and information on aging. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: The seats will not be declared vacant and new appointments to the positions would not be able to be made. This could cause issues with achieving a quorum for the Council and potentially impact their ability to hold meetings. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2695,Version:1 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2696 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/19/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:ACCEPT the resignations of Anya Ayyappan and Ian Cohen, DECLARE vacancies in the Youth Representative 1 and 2 seats and the At-Large 4 seat on the Juvenile Justice Coordinating Council, and DIRECT the Clerk of the Board to post the vacancies, as recommended by the County Probation Officer. Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Esa Ehmen-Krause, County Probation Officer Report Title:JJCC Vacancies ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: ACCEPT the resignation of Anya Ayyappan, DECLARE a vacancy in At-Large youth seat one; ACCEPT the resignation of Ian Cohen, DECLARE a vacancy in At-Large youth seat two; DECLARE a vacancy for At- Large member seat four, and DIRECT Clerk of the Board to post the vacancies. FISCAL IMPACT: No Fiscal Impact. BACKGROUND: Anya Ayyappan provided a verbal resignation at a Juvenile Justice Coordinating Council (JJCC) meeting due to her returning to school at the end of summer. JJCC accepted her resignation and made the recommendation to declare her At Large Youth seat vacant. Ian Cohen provided an email resignation and the Juvenile Justice Coordinating Council made the recommendation to declare his At-Large Youth seat vacant. The Council reviewed Daniel Theodore’s attendance, and based on him missing four meetings, the JJCC has made the recommendation to remove Daniel Theodore. This will leave At-Large member seat four vacant. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If unapproved, the committee would not have an accurate roster of members, vacancies would not be posted, and the Council would be unable to reach quorum. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2696,Version:1 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ Submit Date: Jun 26, 2024 First Name Middle Initial Last Name Home Address Suite or Apt City State Postal Code Primary Phone Email Address Employer Job Title Contra Costa County Boards & Commissions Application Form Profile District Locator Tool Resident of Supervisorial District: District 4 Length of Employment 5 YEARS Do you work in Contra Costa County? Yes No If Yes, in which District do you work? WALNUT CREEK SCHOOL DITRICT How long have you lived or worked in Contra Costa County? 5 YEARS Are you a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces? Yes No Board and Interest Which Boards would you like to apply for? Treasury Oversight Committee: Submitted VINCENT A MORALES 3511 CHAPMAN WAY CONCORD CA 94519 Home: (707) 567-4672 morales127@gmail.com WALNUT CREEK SCHOOL DISTRICT CHIEF BUSINESS OFFICIAL VINCENT A MORALES Seat Name NOT SURE Have you ever attended a meeting of the advisory board for which you are applying? Yes No If Yes, how many meetings have you attended? Education Select the option that applies to your high school education * High School Diploma College/ University A Name of College Attended SKYLINE COLLEGE Degree Type / Course of Study / Major INCOMPLETE Degree Awarded? Yes No College/ University B Name of College Attended Degree Type / Course of Study / Major Degree Awarded? Yes No College/ University C Name of College Attended Degree Type / Course of Study / Major Degree Awarded? Yes No VINCENT A MORALES Upload a Resume Other Trainings & Occupational Licenses Other Training A CASBO CERTIFIED CHIEF BUSINESS OFFICIAL Certificate Awarded for Training? Yes No Other Training B Certificate Awarded for Training? Yes No Occupational Licenses Completed: Qualifications and Volunteer Experience Please explain why you would like to serve on this particular board, commitee, or commission. I work for the Walnut Creek School District and my expertise in school finance will be helfpul for this committee. Describe your qualifications for this appointment. (NOTE: you may also include a copy of your resume with this application) See attached resume Would you like to be considered for appointment to other advisory bodies for which you may be qualified? Yes No Do you have any obligations that might affect your attendance at scheduled meetings? Yes No If Yes, please explain: Are you currently or have you ever been appointed to a Contra Costa County advisory board? Yes No VINCENT A MORALES If Yes, please list the Contra Costa County advisory board(s) on which you are currently serving: If Yes, please also list the Contra Costa County advisory board(s) on which you have previously served: List any volunteer or community experience, including any advisory boards on which you have served. Conflict of Interest and Certification Do you have a familial or financial relationship with a member of the Board of Supervisors? (Please refer to the relationships listed under the "Important Information" section below or Resolution No. 2021/234) Yes No If Yes, please identify the nature of the relationship: Do you have any financial relationships with the County such as grants, contracts, or other economic relationships? Yes No If Yes, please identify the nature of the relationship: Please Agree with the Following Statement I CERTIFY that the statements made by me in this application are true, complete, and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief, and are made in good faith. I acknowledge and undersand that all information in this application is publicly accessible. I understand that misstatements and/or omissions of material fact may cause forfeiture of my rights to serve on a board, committee, or commission in Contra Costa County. I Agree Important Information VINCENT A MORALES 1. This application and any attachments you provide to it is a public document and is subject to the California Public Records Act (CA Government Code §6250-6270). 2. All members of appointed bodies are required to take the advisory body training provided by Contra Costa County. 3. Members of certain boards, commissions, and committees may be required to: (1) file a Statement of Economic Interest Form also known as a Form 700, and (2) complete the State Ethics Training Course as required by AB 1234. 4. Meetings may be held in various locations and some locations may not be accessible by public transportation. 5. Meeting dates and times are subject to change and may occur up to two (2) days per month. 6. Some boards, committees, or commissions may assign members to subcommittees or work groups which may require an additional commitment of time. 7. As indicated in Board Resolution 2021/234, a person will not be eligible for appointment if he/she is related to a Board of Supervisors' member in any of the following relationships: (1) Mother, father, son, and daughter; (2) Brother, sister, grandmother, grandfather, grandson, and granddaughter; (3) Husband, wife, father-in-law, mother-in-law, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, stepson, and stepdaughter; (4) Registered domestic partner, pursuant to California Family Code section 297; (5) The relatives, as defined in 1 and 2 above, for a registered domestic partner; (6) Any person with whom a Board Member shares a financial interest as defined in the Political Reform Act (Gov't Code §87103, Financial Interest), such as a business partner or business associate. VINCENT A MORALES 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2697 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/13/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:ACCEPT the appointment of Mr. Vincent Morales to serve as the statutory County School Districts and Community College District Representative for the period of September 10, 2024 to April 30, 2028, as recommended by the Treasurer-Tax Collector. Attachments:, Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Dan Mierzwa, Treasurer-Tax Collector Report Title:ACCEPT the appointment of Mr. Vincent Morales to serve as the statutory County School Districts and Community College District Representative ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: ACCEPT the appointment of Mr. Vincent Morales to serve as a statutory member representing the County School and Community College Districts for the period between September 10, 2024 to April 30, 2028. Seat Appointee County School Districts and Vincent Morales Community College District Chief Business Official of Walnut Creek School District Representative Contra Costa County Office of Education 77 Santa Barbara Road Pleasant Hill, CA 94523 FISCAL IMPACT: None. BACKGROUND: CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2697,Version:1 The purpose of the Treasury Oversight Committee is to carry out the following: 1) Review and monitor the County Treasurer’s annual investment policy; and 2) Ensure an annual audit is conducted to determine the County Treasurer’s compliance with the investment policy. The Contra Costa County Treasury Oversight Committee is composed of seven statutory members and three alternates. The Committee members are in three different categories as follows: Category 1: Appointed officials (two statutory members and one alternate). Category 1 appointed members are the County Superintendent of Schools or his or her designee and a representative and an alternate of the Board or their designee. Category 2: Elected members (two statutory members and two alternates). Category 2 includes one representative and one alternate elected by a majority of the school and community college districts; and one representative and one alternate elected by a majority of the special districts. Category 3: Public members (three statutory members). Category 3 includes representatives from the public nominated by the County Treasurer and confirmed by the Board. Due to the retirement of Julie Bautista on July 31, 2024, Vincent Morales was elected to the TOC in Category 2 as a statutory member, representing the School Districts and Community College District seat, and confirmed by Lynn Mackey, Contra Costa County Superintendent of Schools. The term ends April 30, 2028. Attached is a copy of the County Superintendent of Schools’ confirmation letter and Vincent Morales’ application. Mr. Morales, a resident of District 4, has been employed as the Chief Business Official for the Walnut Creek School District for five years. He attended Skyline College, San Bruno, CA, and is a CASBO Certified Chief Business Official with an expertise in school finance. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: No continuous representation by the Contra Costa County School Districts and Community College District on the Treasury Oversight Committee. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2698 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/13/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:DECLARE a vacancy in the At-Large 6 Seat on the Contra Costa Commission for Women and Girls for a term ending February 28, 2026, and DIRECT the Clerk of the Board to post the vacancy. Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Monica Nino, County Administrator Report Title:Vacancy on the Contra Costa Commission for Women and Girls ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: DECLARE a vacancy in the At-Large 6 Seat on the Contra Costa Commission for Women and Girls, and DIRECT the Clerk of the Board to post the vacancy. FISCAL IMPACT: None. BACKGROUND: The Contra Costa Commission for Women and Girls (CCCWG) was formed to educate the community and advise the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors on issues relating to the changing social and economic conditions of women in the County, with particular emphasis on the economically disadvantaged. The Commission's mission is, “to improve the economic status, social welfare, and overall quality of life for women in Contra Costa County.” The Commission consists of 15 members and one Alternate At-Large member including: five district representatives (one from each supervisorial district), ten At-Large members, and one Alternate. The five district representatives are nominated for a four-year term by each member of the Board of Supervisors. The ten At-Large members and the one alternate are nominated by the CCCWG Membership Committee and forwarded to the full CCCWG. The full CCCWG then makes appointment recommendations to the Family and Human Services Committee. All Commission seat terms are for a period of four (4) years with staggered expiration dates. The At-Large 6 Seat, with a term ending date in February 2026, was occupied by Ms. Adey Teshager Essayas, who passed away June 16, 2024. The Commission remembers Ms. Adey Teshager Essayas for her compassionate and dedicated spirit and community contributions. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2698,Version:1 The seat will not be declared vacant and a new appointment to the position would not be able to be made. This could cause issues with achieving quorum for the Commission and potentially impact their ability to hold meetings. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:224-2699 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:7/30/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:REAPPOINT Nina Silva to the District 3 seat on the Emergency Medical Care Committee to a term ending September 30, 2026, as recommended by Supervisor Burgis Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 2 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Diane Burgis, District III Supervisor Report Title:REAPPOINT Nina Silva to the District 3 seat on the Emergency Medical Care Committee to a term ending September 30, 2026, as recommended by Supervisor Diane Burgis ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: REAPPOINT Nina Silva to the District 3 seat on the Emergency Medical Care Committee to a term ending September 30, 2026, as recommended by Supervisor Diane Burgis FISCAL IMPACT: None BACKGROUND: The Office of the Supervisor made this appointment in on March 19, 2024 to a term in process. Reappointment has been decided for Nina Silva a full term on the committee CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2699,Version:2 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2700 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/15/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:REAPPOINT Victoria Smith, Orinda resident, to the District II Alternate Seat on the Assessment Appeals Board for a three-year term with an expiration date of September 5, 2027, as recommended by Supervisor Andersen. Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Candace Andersen, District II Supervisor Report Title:APPOINTMENT TO THE ASSESSMENT APPEALS BOARD ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: REAPPOINT Victoria Smith, Orinda resident, to the District II Alternate Seat of the Assessment Appeals Board for a three-year term with an expiration date of September 5, 2027, as recommended by Supervisor Candace Andersen. FISCAL IMPACT: NONE BACKGROUND: Established May 29, 1973 by Ordinance 73-45, the Assessment Appeals Board is the Board of Equalization for the County, with the power to equalize the valuation of the taxable property in the County for the purpose of taxation and review, as well as equalize and adjust penal and escaped assessments on the roll. There are five Appeals Board Members, and five Alternate Members. To be eligible for these positions, a person must meet the following qualifications: 1. Be knowledgeable in the area of property appraisal and taxation. 2. Have a minimum of five years professional experience in California as one of the following: Certified Public Accountant, Public Accountant, Licensed Real Estate Broker, Attorney, or Property Appraiser accredited by a national professional organization. 3. Five years experience in California as an appraiser certified by the State Board of Equalization. Assessment Appeals Board members serve staggered three year terms. Supervisor Andersen advertised the vacancy, has been pleased with Ms. Smith’s participation on the AAB, and would like her to continue for another term. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: The seat will become vacant. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2700,Version:1 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2701 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/15/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:REAPPOINT Marilyn Cachola Lucey, Alamo resident, to the District II Seat of the First 5 Children and Families Commission for a term ending September 11, 2027, as recommended by Supervisor Andersen. Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Candace Andersen, District II Supervisor Report Title:APPOINTMENT TO THE FIRST 5 CONTRA COSTA CHILDREN AND FAMILIES COMMISSION ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: REAPPOINT Marilyn Cachola Lucey, Alamo resident, to the District II Seat of the First 5 Children and Families Commission for a three-year term with an expiration date of September 11, 2027, as recommended by Supervisor Candace Andersen. FISCAL IMPACT: NONE BACKGROUND: The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors established the First 5 Contra Costa Children and Families Commission on June 15, 1999 (Ordinance 99-15). The Board appointed nine Commission members and nine Alternate members on September 1, 1999. Members include one Supervisor from the County Board of Supervisors, the Director of Health Services and Employment and Human Services, and a representative from the County Administrator’s Office of Children’s Services. The other five members of the Commission are appointed by the Board of Supervisors and represent each Supervisorial District. Commissioners and Alternate Commission members represent various disciplines and backgrounds including pediatrics, early childhood education, child welfare, and schools. Alternate members, including second representatives from the Board of Supervisors, the county agencies mentioned above, and the five districts, hold all the powers of the appointed Commissioners except voting privileges. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: The seat will become vacant. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2701,Version:1 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2702 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/22/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:REAPPOINT Gareth Ashley to the District IV Alternate Seat on the First 5 Children and Families Commission for a term ending September 7, 2027, as recommended by Supervisors Carlson. Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Ken Carlson, District IV Supervisor Report Title:REAPPOINT Gareth Ashley to the District IV Alternate Seat on the First 5 Children and Families Commission. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: REAPPOINT the following individuals to the District IV Seats on the First 5 Children and Families Commission with terms set to expire on September 7, 2027: Gareth Ashley Concord, CA FISCAL IMPACT: None BACKGROUND: The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors established the First 5 Contra Costa Children and Families Commission on June 15, 1999 (Ordinance 99-15). The Board appointed nine Commission members and nine Alternate members on September 1, 1999. Members include one Supervisor from the County Board of Supervisors, the directors of the County Departments of Health Services, Employment and Human Services, and a representative from the County Administrator's Office of Children's Services. The other five members of the Commission are appointed by the Board of Supervisors and represent each Supervisory District. Commissioners and Alternate Commission members represent various disciplines and backgrounds including pediatrics, early childhood education, child welfare, and schools. Alternate members, including second representatives from the Board of Supervisors, the county agencies mentioned above, and the five districts, hold all the powers of the appointed Commissioners except voting privileges. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2702,Version:1 CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: The seats will become vacant. The Board of Supervisors of Contra Costa County, California IN THE MATTER OF WHEREAS, NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2704 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/13/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE the election consolidation request from 70 specified jurisdictions seeking elections on the same day in the same territory as the November 5, 2024 General Election, as recommended by the Clerk-Recorder. (100% General Fund, reimbursed by consolidating jurisdictions) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Kristin Connelly, Clerk-Recorder Report Title:Consolidation Request for the November 5, 2024 General Election ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE the election consolidation requests of the 70 jurisdictions listed below seeking elections on the same day and in the same territory as the November 5, 2024 General Election. Cities and Towns ·City of Antioch ·City of Brentwood ·City of Clayton ·City of Concord ·Town of Danville ·City of El Cerrito ·City of Hercules ·City of Lafayette ·City of Martinez ·Town of Moraga ·City of Oakley ·City of Orinda ·City of Pinole ·City of Pittsburg ·City of Pleasant Hill ·City of Richmond ·City of San Pablo CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 3 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2704,Version:1 ·City of San Ramon ·City of Walnut Creek Schools ·Acalanes Union High School District ·Antioch Unified School District ·Brentwood Union School District ·Byron Union School District ·Canyon Elementary School District ·Chabot-Las Positas Community College District ·Contra Costa County Board of Education ·Contra Costa Community College District ·John Swett Unified School District ·Knightsen Elementary School District ·Lafayette School District ·Liberty Union High School District ·Livermore Valley Joint Unified School District ·Martinez Unified School District ·Moraga School District ·Mt. Diablo Unified School District ·Oakley Union Elementary School District ·Orinda Union School District ·Pittsburg Unified School District ·San Ramon Valley Unified School District ·Walnut Creek School District ·West Contra Costa Unified School District Special Districts ·Alameda-Contra Costa Transit District ·Ambrose Recreation & Park District ·Bethel Island Municipal Improvement District ·Byron-Bethany Irrigation District ·Byron Sanitary District ·Castle Rock County Water District ·Central Contra Costa Sanitary District ·Contra Costa Water District ·Crockett Community Services District ·Diablo Community Services District ·Diablo Water District ·Town of Discovery Bay Community Services District ·Dublin San Ramon Services District ·East Bay Municipal Utility District ·East Bay Regional Park District ·East Contra Costa Irrigation District ·Green Valley Recreation & Park District CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 3 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2704,Version:1 ·Ironhouse Sanitary District ·Kensington Fire Protection District ·Kensington Police Protection & Community Services District ·Moraga-Orinda Fire Protection District ·Mt. View Sanitary District ·Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District ·Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District ·Rodeo Sanitary District ·San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District ·San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District ·Stege Sanitary District ·West County Wastewater District FISCAL IMPACT: There will be no additional direct cost to the County. The listed jurisdictions provided the Election Division and ROV with resolutions committing to reimburse costs incurred by the County to the extent allowed by law for providing the requested services. BACKGROUND: California Elections Code Section 10002 provides that the governing body of any city or district may, by resolution, request that the Board of Supervisors permit the county elections official to render specified services to the district relating to the conduct of an election. Upon approval of such a request, the county elections official shall be reimbursed by the city or district for all costs incurred in performing the services. Elections Code Section 10400 provides that when two or more elections are called by a district, city, county, or other political subdivision to be held on the same date within the same territory, those elections may be consolidated by the governing bodies calling the elections. The Board of Supervisors of the County of Contra Costa may approve such requests for consolidation according to California Elections Code section 10400. Pursuant to Elections Code Sections 10401 and 10402.5, whenever any county, municipal, district, or school district election is to be held on a statewide election date, the Board of Supervisors of the county in which the elections are to take place must order the consolidation. Elections Code Section 10403 requires any district, city, or other political subdivision seeking to consolidate an election with others on the ballot to adopt and submit a resolution to the County Board of Supervisors at least 88 days prior to the election. A total of 70 local jurisdictions, as specified, have submitted resolutions to the Registrar of Voters (ROV), authorized by their respective governing bodies, to conduct an election on November 5, 2024, and consolidate 122 local candidate contests with other elections scheduled on the same date. Local jurisdictions additionally submitted resolutions to consolidate a total of 12 ballot measures, for a total of 134 local contests. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: The Registrar of Voters would be unable to consolidate the scheduled elections and provide the requested election services to the requesting cities and districts. This would require each jurisdiction to conduct its own election. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 3 of 3 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2705 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/14/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Auditor-Controller to issue a refund of overpayment of documentary transfer tax totaling $42.35 to by eRecording Partners Network, as recommended by the Clerk- Recorder. (100% General Fund) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Kristin Connelly, Clerk-Recorder Report Title:Refund of overpayment of documentary transfer tax totaling $42.35 to eRecording Partners Network ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Auditor-Controller to issue a refund of overpayment of documentary transfer tax totaling $42.35 to by eRecording Partners Network(ePN). FISCAL IMPACT: The recommendation will result in a reduction of $42.35 from the County General Fund for the 2023-2024 fiscal year. BACKGROUND: The County Clerk-Recorder Department received a deed submitted by eRecording Partners Network(ePN) that had an incorrect documentary transfer tax. The deed was examined for recordability and accepted. To correct the scrivener error, a new deed was submitted and rerecorded reflecting the correct documentary transfer tax. eRecording Partners Network 11055 Wayzata Blvd. Suite 250 Minnetonka, MN 55305 Original Document #2024-0056479 Rerecorded Document #2024-0061832 $42.35 CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Failure to reimburse the parties would cause them to pay more than legally required for documentary transfer tax. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2705,Version:1 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:1RES 2024- 299 Name: Status:Type:Consent Resolution Passed File created:In control:8/28/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:ADOPT Resolution 2024-299 as an amended and restated resolution to conditionally provide for the authorization of revenue bonds in an aggregate amount not to exceed $40,000,000 to finance the acquisition, construction, and rehabilitation of a multifamily residential rental housing currently identified as Riverhouse Hotel located at 700 Alhambra Avenue, Martinez, and approving related actions, as recommended by the Conservation and Development Director. (No fiscal impact) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally adoptedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To: Board of Supervisors From:John Kopchik, Director, Conservation and Development Report Title:Amended and Restated Reimbursement Resolution for Multifamily Housing Revenue Bonds - Riverhouse Hotel in Martinez ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: 1)ADOPT an amended and restated resolution conditionally providing for the authorization of revenue bonds (“Bonds”) in an aggregate amount not to exceed $40,000,000 to finance the acquisition, construction and rehabilitation of 84 units of multifamily residential rental housing currently identified as Riverhouse Hotel located at 700 Alhambra Avenue, Martinez, California (the “Development”), and approving related actions. 2)FIND and DECLARE that the recitals contained in the proposed resolution are true and correct. 3)DETERMINE that the issuance of Bonds to finance the Development, including reimbursement of expenses incurred by the Borrower, is necessary and providing conditional approval thereof and setting forth conditions for the issuance of Bonds. 4)DECLARE the County’s official intent to use proceeds of the Bonds to reimburse expenditures of the Borrower incurred for the Development. 5)AUTHORIZE the Director of the Department of Conservation and Development, or designee, to submit an application to California Debt Limit Allocation Committee for an allocation from the state ceiling of private activity bonds. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/16/2024Page 1 of 6 powered by Legistar™ File #:RES 2024-299,Version:1 6)APPOINT Stradling Yocca Carlson & Rauth LLP as bond counsel for the transaction. 7)AUTHORIZE the Director of the Department of Conservation and Development, or designee, to implement the approvals set forth in the resolution. FISCAL IMPACT: There is no fiscal impact associated with this action. In the event that the Bonds are issued, the Contra Costa County (the “County”) will be reimbursed for any costs incurred in the issuance process. Annual expenses for monitoring of Regulatory Agreement provisions ensuring certain units in the Development will be rented to low -income households are accommodated in the bond issue. The Bonds will be solely secured by and payable from revenues (e.g., development rents, reserves, etc.) pledged under the bond documents. No County funds are pledged to secure the Bonds. BACKGROUND: The County,through the Department of Conservation and Development,operates a multifamily housing revenue bond financing program.The purpose of the program is to increase or preserve the supply of affordable rental housing available to low and very low-income households.The County program may be undertaken within the unincorporated County and within the cities located in the County that have agreed to let the County operate the program in their jurisdiction. Eden Development,Inc.(“Eden”)requested to participate in the County’s multifamily housing revenue bond financing program.Eden (through a borrower entity to be formed by Eden or an affiliate or assignee approved by the County,referred to herein as the “Borrower”)will use the bond proceeds for the acquisition,construction and rehabilitation of the Development,which is approximately 108 years old,constructed in 1914.The Development is an existing,occupied 75-unit apartment development with 6 ground floor retail spaces.The 6 retail spaces on the ground floor will be replaced with 9 new residential units,for a total of 83 low-income and very low-income units between 30-60%area median income (AMI),to be restricted to occupancy by residents who are disabled or over 62 years old,plus one manager’s unit.The building design and project entitlements have been approved by the City of Martinez.The Development meets the eligibility criteria for bond financing and the County policy for this program.The Development will be managed by Eden Housing Management, Inc. A requirement of federal tax law is that the prospective financing be subject to a conditional statement of intent to issue bonds to reimburse expenses incurred prior to the date the bonds are issued and a reimbursement resolution that is adopted by the Board of Supervisors fulfills that requirement.Also,the California Debt Limit Allocation Committee,the entity that allocates tax-exempt bond authority in California,requires that a reimbursement resolution be adopted before an application may be submitted for such an allocation.The adoption of a reimbursement resolution will not obligate the County or the owner without future discretionary actions but will indicate the intent of the County to issue the bonds if all conditions in the reimbursement resolution have been satisfied. The County’s Board of Supervisors approved Resolution No. 2024-284 on August 6, 2024, conditionally providing for the issuance of Multifamily Housing Revenue Bonds in an amount not to exceed $30,000,000. At that time, the assumed value of the land and improvements of the property was equal to the existing debt on the property. A new follow-up appraisal of the property showed a fair market value for the land and improvements at nearly $10 million greater than the previously assumed value, thereby increasing the project’s bond CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/16/2024Page 2 of 6 powered by Legistar™ File #:RES 2024-299,Version:1 allocation above the $30,000,000 cap. Therefore, Eden has requested County approval of a higher bond amount. Accordingly, the County proposes to adopt the attached amended and restated resolution to amend, restate, and supersede Resolution No. 2024-284 to provide conditional approval for issuance of the Bonds in an amount not to exceed $40,000,000. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Without the reimbursement resolution, Eden will not be able to proceed with the process of applying to the California Debt Limit Allocation Committee for multifamily housing revenue bond authority through the County, which would severely delay the development of this project. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/16/2024Page 3 of 6 powered by Legistar™ File #:RES 2024-299,Version:1 THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA and for Special Districts, Agencies and Authorities Governed by the Board IN THE MATTER OF Resolution No. 2024/XX AMENDED AND RESTATED RESOLUTION SETTING FORTH THE COUNTY’S OFFICIAL INTENT TO ISSUE REVENUE BONDS TO FINANCE A MULTIFAMILY RENTAL HOUSING DEVELOPMENT KNOWN AS RIVERHOUSE HOTEL WHEREAS,the Board of Supervisors of the County of Contra Costa (the “County”)has determined that there is a shortage of safe and sanitary housing within the County,and that it is in the best interest of the residents of the County and in furtherance of the health,safety and welfare of the public for the County to assist in the financing of multifamily rental housing developments; and WHEREAS,pursuant to Division 31 of the Health and Safety Code of the State of California,and particularly Chapter 7 of Part 5 thereof (the “Act”),the County is empowered to issue and sell revenue bonds for the purpose of making mortgage loans or otherwise providing funds to finance the acquisition,construction and rehabilitation of multifamily rental housing,including units for lower income households and very low- income households; and WHEREAS,Eden Development,Inc.(“Eden”)has requested that the County consider the issuance and sale of revenue bonds (the “Bonds”)pursuant to the Act,in one or more series,including Bonds the interest on which is federally tax-exempt,all for the purpose of lending the proceeds thereof to a County-approved limited partnership entity to be formed by Eden,or an affiliate or assignee of Eden (the “Borrower”)to finance the acquisition,construction and rehabilitation by the Borrower of 84 units of multifamily rental housing currently identified as Riverhouse Hotel to be located at 700 Alhambra Avenue (APN No.373-225-002-6 and 373-225-003-4)in the City of Martinez,County of Contra Costa (the “Development”),to be owned by the Borrower; and WHEREAS,the County expects that the Borrower has paid or may pay certain expenditures (the “Reimbursement Expenditures”)in connection with the Development within 60 days prior to the adoption of this resolution and may incur additional Reimbursement Expenditures prior to the issuance of indebtedness, for the purpose of financing costs associated with the Development on a long-term basis; and WHEREAS,Sections 1.103-8(a)(5),1.142-4,and 1.150-2 of the United States Treasury Regulations require the County to declare its reasonable official intent to reimburse prior expenditures for the Development with proceeds of a subsequent tax-exempt borrowing; and WHEREAS,the County wishes to declare its intention to authorize the issuance of the Bonds for the purpose of financing costs of the Development (including reimbursement of the Reimbursement Expenditures,when so requested by the Borrower upon such terms and conditions as may then be agreed upon by the County,the CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/16/2024Page 4 of 6 powered by Legistar™ File #:RES 2024-299,Version:1 requested by the Borrower upon such terms and conditions as may then be agreed upon by the County,the Borrower and the purchaser of the Bonds) in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed $40,000,000; and WHEREAS,Section 146 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986,as amended (the “Code”)limits the amount of multifamily housing mortgage revenue bonds that may be issued in any calendar year by entities within a state and authorizes the governor or the legislature of a state to provide the method of allocation within the state; and WHEREAS,Chapter 11.8 of Division 1 of Title 2 of the California Government Code governs the allocation of the state ceiling among governmental units in the State of California having the authority to issue private activity bonds; and WHEREAS,Section 8869.85 of the California Government Code requires a local agency desiring an allocation of the state ceiling to file an application with the California Debt Limit Allocation Committee (CDLAC)for such allocation,and CDLAC has certain policies that are to be satisfied in connection with any such allocation; and WHEREAS,Resolution No.2024-284 was approved by the Board of Supervisors of the County on August 6, 2024, conditionally providing for the issuance of Bonds in an amount not to exceed $30,000,000; and WHEREAS,following an appraisal of the property at which the Development will be located,Eden has requested County approval of a higher Bond amount;accordingly,this resolution (the “Resolution”)amends, restates,and supersedes Resolution No.2024-284 to provide conditional approval for issuance of the Bonds in an amount not to exceed $40,000,000. NOW,THEREFORE,BE IT RESOLVED,by the Board of Supervisors of the County of Contra Costa,as follows: Section 1.The Board of Supervisors hereby finds and declares that the foregoing recitals are true and correct. Section 2.(a)The Board of Supervisors hereby determines that it is necessary and desirable to provide financing for the Development (including reimbursement of the Reimbursement Expenditures)pursuant to the Act by the issuance of the Bonds in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed $40,000,000.The issuance of the Bonds shall be subject to the following conditions:(a)the County,by Resolution of the Board of Supervisors,shall have first agreed to acceptable terms and conditions for the Bonds (and for the sale and delivery thereof),and for all agreements with respect to the Bonds to which the County will be a party;(b)all requisite governmental approvals for the Bonds shall have first been obtained;(c)the Bonds shall be payable from revenues received with respect to a loan to the Borrower made with the proceeds of the Bonds,and neither the full faith nor the credit of the County shall be pledged to the payment of the principal of or interest on the Bonds;and (d)any occupancy and other requirements of the Code are satisfied or otherwise provided for with respect to Bonds,the interest on which is intended to be excluded from gross income for federal tax purposes. The expected date of issue of the Bonds is within eighteen (18)months of the later of the date the first Reimbursement Expenditure was made and the first date the Development is placed in service and in no event later than three (3) years after the date of the first Reimbursement Expenditure. (b)Proceeds of the Bonds to be used to reimburse for Development costs are not expected to be used directly or indirectly to pay debt service with respect to any obligation or to be held as a reasonably required reserve or replacement fund with respect to an obligation of the County or any entity related in any manner to the County,or to reimburse any expenditure that was originally paid with the proceeds of any CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/16/2024Page 5 of 6 powered by Legistar™ File #:RES 2024-299,Version:1 obligation, or to replace funds that are or will be used in such manner. (c)As of the date hereof,the County has a reasonable expectation that the Bonds will be issued to reimburse Development costs.This Resolution is consistent with the budgetary and financial circumstances of the County,as of the date hereof.The Bonds will be repaid solely from proceeds of the Bonds and amounts paid by the Borrower.No other moneys are,or are reasonably expected to be,reserved,allocated on a long- term basis,or otherwise set aside by the County (or any related party)pursuant to its budget or financial policies to repay the Bonds. Section 3.This Resolution is being adopted by the County in part for the purpose of establishing compliance with the requirements of Sections 1.103-8(a)(5),1.142-4,and 1.150-2 of the Treasury Regulations. In such regard,the County hereby declares its official intent to use proceeds of the Bonds to reimburse the Reimbursement Expenditures.This action is taken expressly for the purpose of inducing the Borrower to undertake the Development,and nothing contained herein shall be construed to signify that the Development complies with the planning,zoning,subdivision,environmental and building laws and ordinances applicable thereto or to suggest that the County,or any officer or agent of the County will grant any such approval, consent or permit that may be required in connection with the acquisition,construction and equipping of the Development,or that the County will make any expenditure,incur any indebtedness,or proceed with the financing of the Development. Section 4.The Director of the Department of Conservation and Development,the Assistant Deputy Director of the Department of Conservation and Development,or designee (the “Designated Officer”)is hereby authorized and directed to apply to CDLAC for an allocation from the state ceiling of private activity bonds to be issued by the County for the Development in an amount not to exceed $40,000,000 and to take any and all other actions as may be necessary or appropriate in connection with such application,including but not limited to the payment of fees,the posting of deposits and the provision of certificates,additional applications to CDLAC (if necessary),and any such actions heretofore taken by the Designated Officer and their designees are hereby ratified, approved and confirmed. Section 5.Stradling Yocca Carlson &Rauth LLP is hereby appointed to serve as Bond Counsel to the County in connection with the Development and the issuance and sale of the Bonds. Section 6.The Director of the Department of Conservation and Development,or designee,are hereby authorized to execute all necessary documents,in a form approved by County Counsel and/or Bond Counsel, and to perform such acts as are necessary to implement the approvals provided for in this Resolution. Section 7.This Resolution amends and completely restates Resolution No.2024-284,approved by the County on August 6, 2024. Section 8.This Resolution shall take effect immediately upon its adoption. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/16/2024Page 6 of 6 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2706 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/2/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:AUTHORIZE the Auditor-Controller to release $405,000 from certain Park Dedication/Park Impact Fund Accounts to the Public Works Department to help fund improvements at Fox Creek Park, located at 118 Anthony Way, in the unincorporated Walnut Creek area, as recommended by the Conservation and Development Director. (100% Park Dedication funds) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:John Kopchik, Director, Conservation and Development Report Title:Park Dedication Fee Fund Authorization for Fox Creek Park ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: AUTHORIZE the Auditor-Controller to release $405,000 from certain Park Dedication/Park Impact Fund Accounts to the Contra Costa County Public Works Department to help fund improvements at Fox Creek Park, located at 118 Anthony Way, in the unincorporated Walnut Creek area. FISCAL IMPACT: No Impact to the General Fund. 100% Park Dedication Fees deposited in the Contra Costa Centre area park accounts will be used to finance the improvements. BACKGROUND: Proposed Improvements The Fox Creek Park project will enhance the park by replacing some of the landscaping with more sustainable landscaping and increasing American with Disability Act (ADA) accessibility. The project consists of removing non-native vegetation and installing more sustainable landscape that will require less maintenance and water, including upgrades to the irrigation system. New furnishings, custom metal signs with park name, picnic benches/tables, and trash/recycling receptacles, will be installed along with the refurbishment of the existing seat wall. The existing pedestrian bridge will be updated to ensure ADA accessibility. In May of 2020, the Board of Supervisors authorized $1,200,000 in Park Dedication and Park Impact funds for improvements at both the Walden Green and Fox Creek Park in Contra Costa Centre. The initial estimates for the improvements were lower than the construction bid and as a result, most of the funds were spent on the Walden Green improvements. There is an estimated $25,000 remaining from the previous allocation that will be CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2706,Version:1 spent on Fox Creek Park. Park Fund Background The County imposes fees on residential development to fund park and recreational facilities under both the County's Park Dedication Ordinance and the County's Park Impact Fee Ordinance. Funds from these fees are deposited into accounts associated with the census tract where the residential development occurs to ensure the funds are directed to park and recreational facilities which serve the residents of the development. The following table outlines the Contra Costa Centre Park Dedication and Park Impact fee accounts that will be used for the project. Use of the park fees identified are reasonably related to proposed improvements at Fox Creek Park and are consistent with government code section 66001(a)(3)-(4), because the proposed park improvements will serve the Contra Costa Centre Community, including the areas from which the proposed expenditures were collected. Park Account Number Amount 8136 PD1000016 $ 405,000 Total $ 405,000 Applicable General Plan Goals and Policies The proposed project implements the following General Plan Park and Recreation Facilities Goals: ·To develop a sufficient amount of conveniently located, properly designed park and recreational facilities to serve the needs of all residents (9-H) ·To promote active and passive recreational enjoyment of the County's physical amenities for the continued health, safety and welfare of the citizens of the County (9-J) The proposed project implements the following General Plan Park and Recreation Facilities Policies: ·A well-balanced distribution of local parks, based on character and density present and planned residential development and future recreational needs, shall be preserved. (9-33) ·Park design shall be appropriate to the recreational needs and access capabilities of all residents in each locality. (9-34) ·Public trail facilities shall be integrated into the design of flood control facilities and other public works whenever possible (9-38) California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) The Board of Supervisors determined both projects are California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Class 1 (h) and 4(b) Categorical Exemptions pursuant to Article 19, Section 15301 and 15304 of the CEQA guidelines on January 21, 2020. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If the funds are not authorized, there will not be sufficient funding to complete the project. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2707 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/26/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE the FY 2024/25 Budgets for the Congestion Management Agency and the Regional Transportation Planning Committees, and a total County contribution of $410,491 to these budgets, as recommended by the Conservation and Development Director. (100% gas tax and Measure J funds) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:John Kopchik, Director, Conservation and Development Report Title:Report on FY 2024/25 Budgets for the Congestion Management Agency and the Regional Transportation Planning Committees ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE the Fiscal Year 2024/25 budget for the Congestion Management Agency (CMA), a function performed by the Contra Costa Transportation Authority (Authority), and APPROVE FY 2024/25 County contributions of $294,901 to the CMA and $115,590 to the Regional Transportation Planning Committees that assist with implementing Measure J (2004), as required by prior agreements. FISCAL IMPACT: No impact to the General Fund. The County contributions to the Congestion Management Agency and the Regional Transportation Planning Committees are accounted for and funded from the annual operating budgets approved by the Board of Supervisors for the Public Works Department and the Department of Conservation and Development, using gas tax and Measure J Return-to-Source revenue. BACKGROUND: The agreement that created the County's Congestion Management Agency (CMA) requires referral of its budget to member jurisdictions. The Regional Transportation Planning Committees (RTPCs) were established by the County and the cities to facilitate cooperative multi-jurisdictional transportation planning in the four subregions of the County, pursuant to the Measure J Transportation Improvement and Growth Management Program. Some RTPCs require member jurisdictions to review their proposed annual budgets. The Board of Supervisors takes this action annually. This Board Order also recommends approval of the budgeted financial contribution from Contra Costa County CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 4 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2707,Version:1 to the CMA and the RTPCs for FY 2024/25, as required by agreements creating these entities. Exhibit "A" compares the FY 2024/25 CMA and RTPC budgets and the proposed County contribution to these entities to prior years. The sub-headings below explain the budgets for each Agency/Committee in further detail. Contra Costa Transportation Authority (Authority) The Authority was created in 1988 to manage funds generated by a special half-cent transportation sales tax ("Measure C"), which was approved by voters to fund local transportation projects. The Authority also administers the related voter-approved growth management program requirements. Measure J extended this sales tax and growth management program to 2034. In 1992, the County and local cities entered into a Joint Powers Agreement to designate the Authority as the County's CMA, pursuant to Proposition 111 (1990). Although California law no longer requires each county to have a designated CMA, the local jurisdictions have continued to support the CMA to facilitate the receipt and expenditure of state and federal transportation funds administered by the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC). Contra Costa County's annual contribution to the CMA is based on two components: 1) the formula [population and road miles] used by the State to distribute Proposition 111 gas tax revenue to cities and counties, and 2) the amount of state and federal revenue received by the Authority to fund CMA functions. The Authority primarily uses federal (Surface Transportation Program, Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality) and state (State Transportation Planning, Programming, and Monitoring Program) revenues to fund CMA activities. However, if these revenues are insufficient, member agencies contribute the balance based on the aforementioned formula. As noted in the attached spreadsheet, local contributions are estimates due to the inability to accurately project fluctuating federal and state revenues. For FY 2024/25, the Authority’s overall budget is $210,622,039. The Authority’s Budget for FY 2024/25 for its CMA function is $7,393,028. The County contribution is $294,901, a $155,078 increase (approximately 111%) from the previous fiscal year’s $139,823 contribution. The CMA budget was approved by the Public Managers Association in May 2024. The highlights of the Planning/CMA budget include: •$600,000 for CMA Support and Countywide Transportation Planning •$400,000 for Regional Planning Tasks •$250,000 for Countywide Comprehensive Safety Action Plan •$200,000 for Data Repository and Performance Metrics •$150,000 for Broadband Local Agency Technical Support •$150,000 for Senate Bill 743 Implementation and Vehicle Miles Traveled Support •$150,000 for Congestion Management Program Monitoring Southwest Area Transportation (SWAT) Committee SWAT is the RTPC established for the jurisdictions within the San Ramon Valley and the Lamorinda area. Administrative support, currently provided by contracting with the City of San Ramon, consists of compiling and distributing agendas, staff support at Committee meetings, providing summaries of each meeting, and coordinating the SWAT Technical Advisory Committee. SWAT is funded by equal contributions from the six participating jurisdictions. At the beginning of each billing period, which mirrors the fiscal year, SWAT provides an estimated annual budget and member jurisdiction dues. However, SWAT is unique among the RTPCs in that the jurisdictions are billed the actual annual member dues at the end of the billing period for the prior fiscal year. For FY 2023/24, the actual SWAT budget was $ 29,359.50. The actual County contribution to SWAT for FY 2023/24 is $4,893.25. For FY 2024/25, the CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 4 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2707,Version:1 proposed SWAT budget and the County contribution will be $48,735 and $8,123, respectively. The proposed budget is comprised of $38,735 for SWAT administrative services and $10,000 for SWAT website maintenance. Transportation Partnership and Cooperation (TRANSPAC) Committee TRANSPAC is the RTPC established for the jurisdictions in North-Central Contra Costa. A Managing Director, who is contracted by TRANSPAC, provides administrative support. For FY 2024/25, the TRANSPAC budget is $ 407,500. This budget amount includes $336,000 for administrative costs, a $41,500 project reserve set aside for the future "I-680/Monument Boulevard Bicycle and Pedestrian Improvement Feasibility Study", and a $30,000 contingency. Half of the annual total member jurisdiction dues to TRANSPAC is apportioned equally to the six participating jurisdictions, while the other half is apportioned based on the jurisdictions’ share of population and road mileage in the TRANSPAC area. For FY 2024/25, the County member contribution is $48,341. Transportation Planning Committee for East Contra Costa County (TRANSPLAN) TRANSPLAN Committee is the RTPC established for jurisdictions in Eastern Contra Costa. The Department of Conservation and Development provides the administrative support to the TRANSPLAN Committee, pursuant to a joint powers agreement that funds staff time and materials. The budget provides for administrative support to the TRANSPLAN Committee and its technical advisory committee, staff support to represent the Committee before other entities, and the ability to carry out the decisions of the Committee. The budget is funded by equal contributions from the five participating jurisdictions. The total FY 2024/25 TRANSPLAN budget is $38,865. When a FY 2023/24 budget surplus of $22,789.84 is applied to the FY 2024/25 TRANSPLAN budget, the result is a net total budget of $16,074.88. The County contribution is $3,215. Tri-Valley Transportation Council (TVTC) TVTC, consisting of Contra Costa County and Alameda County jurisdictions in the Tri-Valley area, adopted a Joint Exercise of Powers (JEPA) agreement in 2013, formally establishing it as an independent entity. Responsibility for administrative support rotates every two years among the participating jurisdictions. The TVTC budget for FY 2024/25 is $90,700. Budget revenues are generated from an average annual 1% "set aside" of the subregional transportation development impact fees and cover the agency's normal operating expenditures. Thus, the County does not contribute to TVTC. West Contra Costa Transportation Advisory Committee (WCCTAC) WCCTAC is the RTPC established for jurisdictions and transit agencies in West Contra Costa. WCCTAC has its own dedicated staff, headed by an executive director. WCCTAC's full budget consists of the budget for WCCTAC Operations (Advisory Committee), WCCTAC Traffic Demand Management (TDM), WCCTAC Sub -regional Transportation Mitigation Program (STMP), and "Other Reimbursable (Special Projects)". The FY 2024/25 full budget for WCCTAC is $13,032,446. Member jurisdiction dues support WCCTAC Operations. WCCTAC consists of nine member jurisdictions, each with one seat/vote, except the City of Richmond, which has three, for eleven total seats/votes. The member jurisdiction dues are determined by dividing the WCCTAC Operations budget (after deductions from other funding sources) by the number of seats held; therefore, the County pays one-eleventh (9.1%) of WCCTAC's Operations budget. The FY 2024/25 Operations budget for WCCTAC is $ 657,484, and the County member contribution is $55,911. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If not accepted,County staff will have no direction on how to fulfill fiscal and policy obligations relative to funding the Congestion Management Agency and the Regional Transportation Planning Committees. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 3 of 4 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2707,Version:1 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 4 of 4 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2876 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:9/5/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:ADOPT report prepared by the Department of Conservation and Development as the Board of Supervisors' response to Contra Costa Civil Grand Jury Report No. 2403, entitled “Construction- Related Accessibility Standards and the Department of Conservation and Development”, and DIRECT the Clerk of the Board to transmit the Board's response to the Superior Court no later than September 12, 2024, as recommended by the County Administrator. (No fiscal impact) Attachments:, Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Monica Nino, County Administrator Report Title:Response to Civil Grand Jury Report 2403, “Construction-Related Accessibility Standards and the Department of Conservation and Development” ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: ADOPT report prepared by the Department of Conservation and Development as the Board of Supervisors' response to Contra Costa Civil Grand Jury Report No. 2403, entitled “Construction-Related Accessibility Standards and the Department of Conservation and Development”, and DIRECT the Clerk of the Board to transmit the Board's response to the Superior Court no later than September 12, 2024. FISCAL IMPACT: No fiscal impact. BACKGROUND: The 2023/24 Civil Grand Jury filed the above-referenced report dated June 11, 2024 (see Attachment), which was addressed to and received by the Board of Supervisors, and on July 9, 2024 referred to the County Administrator and the Department of Conservation and Development Director, who prepared the attached response (see Attachment), which specifies: ·Whether the finding or recommendation is accepted or will be implemented; ·If a recommendation is accepted, a statement as to who will be responsible for implementation and a definite target date; ·Delineation of the constraints if a recommendation is accepted but cannot be implemented within a six- month period; and ·The reason for not accepting or adopting a finding or recommendation. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2876,Version:1 The Department of Conservation and Development is appreciative of the Grand Jury’s examination of construction-related accessibility standards and for the opportunity to address the report findings and recommendations. The report contains 13 findings and 7 recommendations. In the attached proposed response, the County agrees with 9 of the findings, disagrees with 2 findings, partially disagrees with 1 finding, and was not able to respond to one finding. In the proposed response, the County reports that DCD has implemented 3 of the recommendations and will not implement 4 of the recommendations because they are not warranted. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: The deadline for filing the County’s response to the Superior Court is September 12, 2024. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ Contra Costa County Response to Civil Grand Jury Report No. 2403, entitled “Construction-Related Accessibility Standards and the Department of Conservation and Development” The Following are Responses to the Findings and Recommendations of the Contra Costa County Civil Grand Jury report entitled “Construction-Related Accessibility Standards and the Department of Conservation and Development” (Report 2403), dated June 6, 2024. Findings: 1. Civil Code Section 55.53(d)(1) requires public agencies to employ or retain at least one building inspector who is a CASp. Response: The respondent agrees with the finding. 2. Contra Costa County is a public agency covered by this Civil Code Section. Response: The respondent agrees with the finding. 3. DCD Did not comply with Civil Code Section 55.53 (d)(1) between 6/8/2013 and 6/21/2021 or between 9/21/2021 and 12/31/2023 Response: The respondent agrees with the finding. 4. Civil Code Section 55.53 (d)(2) requires public agencies to employ or retain a sufficient number of CASps to conduct permitting and plan check services, effective 1/1/2014 Response: The respondent agrees with the finding. 5. CASps currently retained by DCD are available for consultation on accessibility requirements. Response: The respondent agrees with the finding. 6. DCD does not have a procedure for any CASps to conduct permitting an d plan check services in the building permit approval process. Response: The respondent disagrees with the finding . Managers in the Department of Conservation and Development (DCD) who supervise staff involved in the building permitting and plan check process may obtain consultation from a Certified Access Specialist (CASp) retained by the department by making a request to the Chief Building Official, Building Division, who will review the request and direct the CASp retained by the department to provide such consultation as needed. 7. Government Code Section 4469.5 requires public agencies to provide an informational notice about accessibility laws to applicants for building permits for additions, alterations, and structural repairs to commercial property, or building permits for new construction of commercial property. This notice encourages business permit applicants to consult CASps. Response: The respondent agrees with the finding. 8. DCD was not providing the informational notice required by Government Code Section 4469.5 as of 12/31/2023 Response: The respondent agrees with the finding. 9. The law requires that moneys in the Accessibility Compliance Fund shall be used for increased certified access specialist (CASp) training and certification within that local jurisdiction and to facilitate compliance with construction-related accessibility requirements. Response: The respondent agrees with the finding. 10. DCD, as of 2022, had used less than 28% of the Accessibility Compliance Fund. The expenditure was for training. Response: The respondent agrees with the finding. 11. The staff being trained for CASp certification are primarily senior staff and may not be involved in most construction-related accessibility reviews. Response: The respondent disagrees with the finding. DCD currently has 5 employees participating in an intensive training program with a CASp retained by the department to prepare these employees to take and pass the CASp exam, which is the main requirement for CASp certification. The 5 employees participating in this training program are at the Senior or Principal level within their job series. All 5 of these individuals directly participate in the plan check or inspection of construction projects having accessibility requirements and part of their role is to ensure compliance with the construction -related accessibility requirements enforced by DCD. 12. The Grand Jury has not been able to independently verify that DCD staff have been adequately trained to review building plans and building inspections for compliance with the accessibility requirements in the Building Code as none have been certified by DSA. Response: The respondent can neither agree nor disagree with the finding . The County cannot evaluate if the Civil Grand Jury has been able to make the independent verification stated in the finding. DCD staff are adequately trained to fulfill their job responsibilities. DCD staff possess numerous professional certifications and licenses demonstrating their preparedness to perform their job duties. These certifications typically include ongoing continuing education requirements to ensure skills and knowledge are maintained. However, it is not required in law nor in the County’s job specifications that DCD staff possess a CASp certification from the Division of the State Architect (DSA) to review and inspect construction projects for compliance with the accessibility requirements in the Building Code. 13. Building permit fees and the Accessibility Compliance Fund are both allowable sources of funding for review of the effective use of CASps in the building department. Response: The respondent partially disagrees with the finding. It is not clear that building permit fees are an allowable source of funds for the stated use. Building permit fees are intended to be used to recover the County’s cost of providing services associated with building permits, such as plan check and inspection services. Recommendations: 1. By December 31, 2024, the Board of Supervisors should consider commissioning an independent CASp review of how DCD is ensuring that the building permit process enforces federal and state accessibility requirements. Response: The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted. There is no evidence or indication that such an independent review is needed. The County’s resources would be better utilized providing services to the public. 2. By December 31, 2024, the Board of Supervisors should consider commissioning an independent CASp review to determine how many CASps is a sufficient number to conduct permitting and plan check services at DCD. Response: The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted. DCD is charged with and capable of determining how many CASps is sufficient and has determined that one CASp is sufficient and two CASps is the ideal number (for time off coverage). This determination is based on the department’s historic need for CASp services, which has been minimal. 3. By March 31, 2025, the Board of Supervisors should consider directing DCD to employ or retain the sufficient number of CASps to conduct permitting and plan check services. Response: The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted. DCD has retained a CASp to provide consultation on accessibility issues related to permitting, plan checking and inspection as needed. The department has retained a second CASp to train a group of 5 experienced employees in an intensive training program to prepare them to obtain their CASp certification. DCD will continue investing in training for its employees until a sufficient number of department employees are CASp-certified, as described in response to recommendation 2 above. 4. By September 30, 2024, the Board of Supervisors should consider directing DCD to report to the County Administrator periodically to confirm the number of CASps employed or retained. Response: The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted. DCD will continue to retain a CASp until a sufficient number of DCD employees are CASp-certified and will periodically commission additional trainings to ensure the department maintains a sufficient number of employees who are CASp-certified . 5. By December 31, 2024, the Board of Supervisors should consider directing DCD to have a procedure in the building permit approval process that identifies those situations where a CASp review is required. Response: The recommendation has been implemented. DCD has such a procedure. Any time a manager in the Building Division is uncertain as to how to interpret or apply the laws and regulations related to construction accessibility enforced by the department, that manager may request the Chief Building Official authorize the CASp retained by the department to provide consultation. 6. By September 30, 2024, the Board of Supervisors should direct DCD to develop the informational notice required by California Code 4469.5 for current and new commercial building permit applications. Response: The recommendation has been implemented. When this requirement was brought to the department’s attention through the Grand Jury’s inquiry, the department immediately took action to comply with the requirement. 7. By September 30, 2024, the Board of Supervisors should direct DCD to provide the informational notice required by California Code 4469.5 to current and new commercial building permit applications. Response: The recommendation has been implemented. When this requirement was brought to the department’s attention through the Grand Jury’s inquiry, the department immediately took action to comply with the requirement. Comments: The Board and DCD thank the Grand Jury for its research into construction -related accessibility standards. In the course of responding to the Grand Jury’s information requests, DCD became aware of its responsibility to provide an informational notice to certain building permit applicants concerning accessibility requirements as mandated by Government Code Section 4469.5. DCD is now providing such notice to building permit applicants. DCD also acknowledges its responsibility to determine and employ or retain a sufficient number of CASps. The CASp exam is very difficult to pass, and as a result CASp- certified individuals are in high demand. Over the past 15 years, DCD has provided training to department employees desiring to become CASp -certified, and two department employees achieved the certification only to have left soon afterward to pursue other opportunities. Currently, DCD retains a CASp to provide consultation to the department on construction-related accessibility requirements. DCD also remains committed to employing CASp-certified staff and continues to train employees to assist them in obtaining their CASp certification. Grand Jury Contra Costa County 725 Court Street P.O. Box 431 Martinez, CA 94553-0091 June 11, 2024 Monica Nino Contra Costa County 1025 Escobar Street Martinez, CA 94553 Dear Monica Nino: Attached is a copy of Grand Jury Report No. 2403, "Construction-Related Accessibility Standards and the Department of Conservation and Development" by the 2023-2024 Contra Costa County Grand Jury. Sincerely, anne Sarmento, Foreperson 023-2024 Contra Costa County Civil Grand Jury Enclosure RECEIVED JUN 14 2024 GOUNTY ADMINISTRATOR Grand Jury Contra Costa County 725 Court Street P.O. Box 431 Martinez, CA 94553-0091 June 11, 2024 Monica Nino Contra Costa County 1025 Escobar Street Martinez, CA 94553 Dear Monica Nino: Attached is a copy of Grand Jury Report No. 2403, "Construction-Related Accessibility Standards and the Department of Conservation and Development" by the 2023-2024 Contra Costa County Grand Jury. Sincerely, anne Sarmento, Foreperson 023-2024 Contra Costa County Civil Grand Jury Enclosure RECEIVED JUN 14 2024 GOUNTY ADMINISTRATOR Exhibit AFY 2014/15 FY 2015/16 FY 2016/17 FY 2017/18 FY 2018/19 FY 2019/20 FY 2020/21 FY 2021/22 FY 2022/23 FY 2023/24 FY 2024/25Contra Costa Transportation Authority (Total Budget)$278,901,231 $253,753,595 $209,939,317 $184,508,140 $243,858,989 $240,621,444 $205,223,483 $174,388,333 $178,410,527 $217,737,959 $210,622,039Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CMA Budget)$6,217,043 $7,357,983 $5,014,681 $3,460,131 $3,596,517 $3,350,767 $3,607,773 $5,216,899 $6,813,668 $8,542,918 $7,393,028Southwest Area Transportation Committee (SWAT)$0 $34,250 $32,500 $24,375 $30,875 $33,700 $33,700 $42,330 $33,700 $48,735$48,735ATRANSPAC (Central County) $190,440 $204,222 $204,222 $449,956 $473,733 $503,556 $406,500 $343,500 $345,500 $375,000 $407,500TRANSPLAN (East County) $20,252 $35,945 $34,546 $23,000 $31,000 $28,285 $54,043 $34,822 $6,840 $29,094 $16,075Tri-Valley Transportation Council (TVTC)$205,800 $117,603 $98,233 $55,500 $161,000 $166,000 $256,440 $159,010 $60,200 $76,200 $80,700West Contra Costa Transportation Advisory Committee (WCCTAC)$1,212,194 $2,659,143 $4,705,907 $4,002,460 $6,242,704 $5,011,796 $4,662,624 $8,448,556 $8,604,654 $8,260,422 $13,032,446Grand TotalB$280,529,917 $256,804,758 $215,014,725 $189,063,431 $250,798,301 $246,364,781 $210,636,790 $183,416,551 $187,461,421 $226,527,410 $224,207,495FY 2014/15 FY 2015/16 FY 2016/17 FY 2017/18 FY 2018/19 FY 2019/20 FY 2020/21 FY 2021/22 FY 2022/23 FY 2023/24 FY 2024/25Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CMA Budget)$79,682 $101,715 $188,652 $193,431 $182,532 $196,249 $96,573 $144,576 $217,298 $139,823$294,901CSouthwest Area Transportation Committee (SWAT)$0D$5,708 $5,417 $4,063 $5,146 $5,617 $5,617 $7,055 $5,617 $8,123$8,123ATRANSPAC (Central County) $29,534 $31,867 $31,867 $35,196 $34,503 $34,539 $32,245 $37,822 $42,884 $46,588 $48,341TRANSPLAN (East County)$0E$7,189 $6,909 $2,495 $6,200 $5,263 $10,809 $2,310 $1,368 $5,819 $3,215Tri-Valley Transportation Council (TVTC)F$0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0West Contra Costa Transportation Advisory Committee (WCCTAC)$36,675 $36,675 $39,675 $42,772 $47,049 $48,930 $48,930 $49,644 $51,889$54,494 $55,911Grand Total $145,891 $183,154 $272,520 $277,956 $275,430 $290,598 $194,174 $241,407 $319,056 $254,847 $410,491A FY 2024/25 SWAT budget and County contribution are estimates and subject to change. Jursidictions are charged actual costs, which are identified at the end of the fiscal year.B The calculation for the Grand Total does not include the Contra Costa Transportation Authority CMA Budget figure. It is already included in the CCTA Total Budget.C County contribution to the Contra Costa Transportation Authority CMA Budget is an estimate and subject to change due to fluctuating federal and state revenue that offset local contributionsD SWAT member agencies were not billed in FY 2014/15.E TRANSPLAN had a sufficient carryover balance from FY 2013/14 to cover the FY 2014/15 budget.F No County contributions. TVTC budget is covered by a 1% administration set-aside in the sub-regional fee program.Agency/CommitteeAgency/CommitteeBudgetCounty ContributionG:\Transportation\Committees\RTPC Budgets\2024\CMA_RTPC FY24-25 Budget Rpt (with CMA Budget) 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2708 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/23/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:AUTHORIZE relief of cash shortage in the Sheriff's Department - Detention Bureau in the amount of $450, as recommended by the County Administrator. (100% General Fund) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Monica Nino, County Administrator Report Title:Request for Relief of Cash Shortage ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: AUTHORIZE relief of cash shortage in the Sheriff’s Department - Detention Bureau in the amount of $450.00. FISCAL IMPACT: Cash shortage in the amount of $450.00 will be funded with 100% General Fund. BACKGROUND: In accordance with the provisions of Administrative Bulletin 207.7, the Auditor-Controller has verified and concurs with the report of a total cash shortage in the amount of $450.00 in the Sheriff’s Department - Detention Bureau. The shortages occurred on three separate occasions on January 12, 2022, April 25, 2024, and May 15, 2024, at the Martinez Detention Facility (MDF). All three instances involved the deposit of counterfeit bills during graveyard and day shifts. MDF uses both counterfeit bill detection pens, as well as a counterfeit bill detection machine and neither method can be considered 100% effective. MDF management continues to work to ensure staff be vigilant and check each bill carefully to minimize any future occurrences of counterfeit bills. MDF will also pursue the purchase of a newer model black light machine. As far as can be ascertained, neither the shortage nor any delay in its discovery was caused by fraud or gross negligence. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2708,Version:1 CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: The shortage will not be relieved and cash will not be in balance. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2709 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/21/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:RECEIVE notice of adjustment in compensation paid to members of the Board of Supervisors showing the 2.29 percent salary increase for Board members effective July 1, 2024, as required by Ordinance Code section 24-26.006. (100% General Fund) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Monica Nino, County Administrator Report Title:Notice of Adjustment in Compensation Paid to Members of the Board of Supervisors ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: RECEIVE notice of adjustment in compensation paid to members of the Board of Supervisors showing the 2.29 percent salary increase for Board members retroactive to July 1, 2024, as required by Ordinance 24-26.006. FISCAL IMPACT: The annual cost of the salary increase will be approximately $3,550 per Board member. BACKGROUND: On April 16, 2019, the Board of Supervisors adopted Ordinance No. 2019-11 which amended Ordinance 24- 26.006 to link the base salary for members of the Board of Supervisors to the salary of Superior Court judges. The ordinance provides that from and after January 1, 2021, Supervisors receive 65% of judges’ salary. This includes the increases, at the same time and in the same percentage, that the judges receive, so that a base salary of 65% of the Superior Court judges’ salary is maintained. Ordinance No. 24-26.006 requires that for all adjustments to base salary occurring after January 1, 2021, a “notice of adjustment in compensation paid to members of the board of supervisors” shall appear on the agenda of a regular meeting of the Board of Supervisors at least ten (10) days prior to the date such adjustment is implemented. Each such adjustment will have the same effective date as the corresponding salary adjustment for the Superior Court Judge. On August 20, 2024, the County received notice that Superior Court judges’ salary was increased to $243,940, retroactive to July 1, 2024. This was a 2.29% increase to judicial salaries. The purpose of this Staff Report is to provide notice, pursuant to Ordinance 24-26.006, that the salaries for members of the Board of Supervisors also are increased by further 2.29% to maintain a base salary of 65% of Superior Court Judges’ salary. The CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2709,Version:1 monthly salary amount for Board members increases from $12,917.61 to $13,213.41. This salary increase will be implemented on or after September 10, 2024, with an effective date of July 1, 2024. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: The County will not be in compliance with Ordinance 24-26.006. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ Exempt Program 1515 S Street, North Building, Suite 500 Sacramento, CA 95811 (916) 324-9381; Fax (916) 327-1886 Governor Gavin Newsom Secretary, Government Operations Agency Amy Tong Director Eraina Ortega August 19, 2024 State Controller’s Office 300 Capitol Mall Sacramento, CA 95814 Subject: Exempt Pay Letter Per Government Code section 68203, this is to notify you that the Department of Human Resources (CalHR) has adjusted the following statutory judicial salaries, effective July 1, 2024. This represents a salary increase of 2.29 percent based on the figures of the average increase provided to State employees in FY 2024- 2025. Please note that the monthly rate may be rounded down so that the total for the twelve months does not exceed the annual amount. If you have any questions, please contact Angelina Snarr at (916) 909-3307 or Angelina.Snarr@calhr.ca.gov. DOCUMENTATION: The State Controller’s Office will process an Employment History (EH) mass update to implement the GSI for eligible Judicial employees prior to monthly payroll cutoff in August 2024. For employees who separated from state service prior to July 1, 2024 and have lump sum payments that extend beyond July 1, 2024, departments shall adjust their lump sum to reflect the above salary changes. Class Code Class Title Monthly Salary Annual Salary New Monthly Salary New Annual Salary L5987 Chief Justice $25,438.25 $305,259 $26,020.75 $312,249 L5988 Associate Justice $24,257.83 $291,094 $24,813.33 $297,760 L5991 Justice, Court of Appeal $22,741.83 $272,902 $23,262.58 $279,151 L9999 Judge, Superior Court $19,873.25 $238,479 $20,328.33 $243,940 State Controller’s Office Page 2 Sincerely, Manpreet Singh Exempt Program Manager (916) 909-3232 cc: Shelley Curran, Administrative Director Robert Oyung, Chief Deputy Director Aurora Rezapour, Director, Human Resources Felizia Nava-Kardon, Deputy Director, Human Resources Christopher Navarrete, Human Resources Supervisor 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2710 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/6/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE amendments to the List of Designated Positions of the Conflict of Interest Code of the Department of Conservation and Development, as recommended by County Counsel. Attachments:, Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Thomas L. Geiger, County Counsel Report Title:Conflict of Interest Code for the Department of Conservation and Development ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE amendments to the List of Designated Positions of the Conflict of Interest Code of the Department of Conservation and Development (“DCD”). FISCAL IMPACT: None BACKGROUND: The DCD has amended the List of Designated Positions of its Conflict of Interest Code and submitted the revised List of Designated Positions, attached as Exhibit A, to the Board of Supervisors for approval pursuant to Government Code sections 87306 and 87306.5. The recommended changes include the addition and deletion of positions designated to file conflict of interest statements. This change will ensure that the Conflict of Interest Code accurately reflects the current positions and organizational structure in use by the DCD. A red-lined version of the List of Designated Positions is included as Exhibit B. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: None. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2710,Version:1 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2711 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/15/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE amendments to the List of Designated Positions of the Conflict of Interest Code of the Contra Costa County Probation Department, as recommended by County Counsel Attachments:, Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Thomas L. Geiger, County Counsel Report Title:Conflict of Interest Code Amendment for the Probation Department ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE amendments to the List of Designated Positions of the Conflict of Interest Code of the Contra Costa County Probation Department. FISCAL IMPACT: None. BACKGROUND: The Probation Department has amended the List of Designated Positions of its Conflict of Interest Code and submitted the revised List of Designated Positions, attached as Exhibit A, to the Board of Supervisors for approval pursuant to Government Code sections 87306 and 87306.5. The recommended changes include the addition and deletion of positions designated to file conflict of interest statements. This change will ensure that the Conflict of Interest Code accurately reflects the current positions and organizational structure in use by the Probation Department. A red-lined version of the List of Designated Positions is included as Exhibit B. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: None. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2711,Version:1 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2712 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/20/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE amendments to the Conflict of Interest Code for the Moraga School District, including the list of designated positions, as recommended by County Counsel. Attachments:, Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Thomas L. Geiger, County Counsel Report Title:Conflict of Interest Code of the Moraga School District ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE amendments to the Conflict of Interest Code for the Moraga School District (“District”), including the list of designated positions. FISCAL IMPACT: None. BACKGROUND: The District amended its list of designated positions in the Appendix to its Conflict of Interest Code and submitted the revised Appendix to the Board for approval pursuant to Government Code sections 87306 and 87306.5. The Appendix has been revised to delete one designated position. A final version of the Appendix is attached hereto as Exhibit A. These changes will ensure that the Conflict of Interest Code accurately reflects the current positions and organizational structure in use by the District. A red-lined version of the Appendix is attached as Exhibit B. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: None. cc:Monica Nino, Clerk of the Board of Supervisors; Kurtis C. Keller, Deputy County Counsel; Julie C. Parks, Superintendent, Moraga School District CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2712,Version:1 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2713 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/20/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE amendments to the Conflict of Interest Code for the Acalanes Union High School District, including the list of designated positions, as recommended by County Counsel. Attachments:, Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Thomas L. Geiger, County Counsel Report Title:Conflict of Interest Code for the Acalanes Union High School District ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE amendments to the Conflict of Interest Code for the Acalanes Union High School District (“District”), including the list of designated positions. FISCAL IMPACT: None. BACKGROUND: The District amended its list of designated positions in the Appendix to its Conflict of Interest Code to rename one of the designated positions and submitted the revised Appendix to the Board for approval pursuant to Government Code sections 87306 and 87306.5. The Appendix has been revised to update the list of positions designated to file conflict of interest statements. A final version of the Appendix is attached hereto as Exhibit A. These changes will ensure that the Conflict of Interest Code accurately reflects the current positions and organizational structure in use by the District. A redlined version of the Appendix is attached as Exhibit B. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: None. cc:Monica Nino, Clerk of the Board of Supervisors; Kurtis C. Keller, Deputy County Counsel; Christopher CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2713,Version:1 Grove, President, Acalanes Union High School District CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2714 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/22/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:RECEIVE public report of litigation settlement agreements that became final during the period June 1, 2024, through August 31, 2024. Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Thomas L. Geiger, County Counsel Report Title:Public report of litigation settlement agreements that became final during the period June 1, 2024, through August 31, 2024. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: RECEIVE public report of litigation settlement agreements that became final during the period June 1, 2024, through August 31, 2024. FISCAL IMPACT: Settlement amounts are listed below. BACKGROUND: Four agreements to settle pending litigation, as defined in Government Code section 54956.9, became final during the period June 1, 2024, through August 31, 2024. Elianna Esquivel, a minor v. County of Contra Costa; Contra Costa Superior Court, Case No. C21-01863. On January 16, 2024, the Board of Supervisors approved a final settlement in this medical malpractice case. The Board approved the settlement for $950,000 in closed session by a vote of 5-0. The settlement agreement was fully executed on June 9, 2024. The funding source is the Risk Management Medical Malpractice Internal Service Fund. Brenda Hall v. Contra Costa County, et al.; Contra Costa County Superior Court, Case No. C24-00975. On June 25, 2024, the Board of Supervisors approved a final settlement in this medical malpractice case. The Board approved the settlement for $395,000 in closed session by a vote of 5-0. The settlement agreement was fully executed on August 5, 2024. The funding source is the Risk Management Medical Malpractice Internal CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2714,Version:1 Service Fund. Karla-Monique Veal v. Contra Costa County, et al.;Contra Costa County Superior Court, Case No. C19- 02153. On August 13, 2024, the Board of Supervisors approved a final settlement in this employment case arising out of plaintiff’s termination. The Board approved the settlement for $170,000 in closed session by a vote of 5-0. The settlement agreement was fully executed on July 25, 2024. The funding source is the Risk Management Liability Internal Service Fund. Contra Costa County Fire Protection District v. RRM Design Group ; Contra Costa County Superior Court, Case No. C24-00147. On May 14, 2024, the Board of Supervisors approved a settlement in this breach of contract and express indemnity case arising out of the Fire District’s contract with an architect to design Fire Station #86 in Bay Point. The Board approved a settlement to receive $115,000 in closed session by a vote of 5 -0. The settlement agreement was fully executed on June 28, 2024. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: The report would not be accepted. cc: Monika L. Cooper, Assistant County Counsel; Karen Caoile, Director, Risk Management CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2715 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/19/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the District Attorney, or designee, to apply for, accept, and execute a grant award agreement, including any modifications or extensions thereof pursuant to the grant guidelines, with the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services, Victim Services Branch, in the amount of up to $1,477,630 for funding of the Victim Witness Assistance Program, for the period October 1, 2024 through September 30, 2025. (100% State) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Diana Becton, District Attorney Report Title:Victim/Witness Grant Application for October 1, 2024 through September 30, 2025 ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the District Attorney, or designee, to apply for, accept, and execute a grant award agreement, including any modifications or extensions thereof pursuant to State guidelines, with the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services, Victim Services Branch, in the amount of $1,477,630 for funding of the Victim Witness Assistance Program, for the period October 1, 2024 through September 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: The District Attorney will receive $1,477,630 in revenue from Cal OES which is included in the FY24-25 budget. BACKGROUND: On June 22, 2004, the District Attorney was designated by the Board of Supervisors as the provider of comprehensive victim and witness services for the County, effective July 1, 2004. The Victim Witness Assistance Program provides constitutionally and statutorily mandated services to empower victims of crime through advocacy and support. Advocates give a voice to victims in the criminal justice system at all stages of the court proceedings. They provide crisis intervention, orientation to the criminal justice system and pursue restitution on behalf of victims and the Victims Compensation Fund. Fiscal year 2024-2025 is the 21st year that the District Attorney is applying for funds available to support the costs of Contra Costa County's Victim Witness Assistance Program. The grant application will continue to fund staff salaries and benefits to provide services to victims and witnesses of crimes. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2715,Version:1 CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If unapproved, the District Attorney will be unable to apply for and receive the grant funding needed to continue its comprehensive victim and witness services. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2716 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/19/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the District Attorney, or designee, to execute a contract with LanceSoft Inc., in an amount not to exceed $336,000, to place qualified personnel to work in the District Attorney’s Office on crime analysis, for the period September 3, 2024 through September 30, 2025. (100% Federal) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Diana Becton, District Attorney Report Title:Contract with LanceSoft to Provide Crime Analysis Services for the Project Safe Neighborhood Grant Funded Program ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the District Attorney, or designee, to execute a contract with LanceSoft Inc., in an amount not to exceed $336,000, to place qualified personnel to work in the District Attorney’s Office on crime analysis, for the period September 3, 2024 through September 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: The amount of $336,000 is funded 100% by the FY 2022 Northern District of California Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) grant from the U.S. Department of Justice (US DOJ), Office of Justice Programs (OJP), Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA). The grant funding is budgeted in FY2024-2025. BACKGROUND: Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office received the FY 2022 Northern District of California Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) grant to fund a contracted Crime Analyst to work in the District Attorney’s Office through September 30, 2025. On April 26, 2024, the District Attorney’s Office released a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) #2404-792 to solicit Statements of Qualifications from professionals and organizations interested in serving as a contracted Crime Analyst for the DA’s office. Following the procurement process, LanceSoft Inc. was selected to enter a contract with the District Attorney’s Office for the PSN grant funded program. LanceSoft Inc. will place qualified personnel to work in the D.A.’s Office on crime analysis. Personnel working on crime analysis will be responsible for collecting, compiling, and analyzing criminal intelligence data; using data sources to develop suspect information; determining crime patterns; and projecting crime trends. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2716,Version:1 LanceSoft Inc. will ensure that personnel placed in the D.A.’s Office are capable of satisfactorily completing the required tasks. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: The District Attorney’s Office will be unable to fulfill the agreed upon terms of the FY 2022 Northern District of California Project Safe Neighborhoods grant awarded to the Department. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2717 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/20/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the District Attorney, or designee, to execute a contract with Cellebrite DI Ltd. in an amount not to exceed $21,292 for the usage of a software license to unlock smartphones for investigations purpose, for the period September 8, 2024 through September 7, 2025.(100% General Fund) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Diana Becton, District Attorney Report Title:Software End Customer License Agreement with Cellebrite ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the District Attorney, or designee, to execute a contract with Cellebrite DI Ltd. in an amount not to exceed $21,292 for the usage of a software license to unlock smartphones for investigations purpose, for the period September 8, 2024 through September 7, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this action will result in expenditures of up to $21,292 which is included in the Department’s FY2024-2025 Budget and within its General Fund allocation. BACKGROUND: Cellebrite provides investigators in the District Attorney’s Office access to locked Apple and Android smartphones through their premium product. This product will be used to access critical data for crimes against children, violent crimes, and illegal narcotic activities. Cellebrite also processes the extracted data, separate the data into categories such as text messages, pictures, location history and web history, and presents it in an effective manner so that prosecutors can take it into court in an easily readable format for the court and jurors. This Software End Customer License Agreement includes limitation of liability and indemnification for the County to hold Cellebrite harmless from any claims arising out of the performance under this agreement. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Without executing the Software End Customer License Agreement, the District Attorney’s Office cannot utilize the software for investigatory and prosecutorial purposes. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2717,Version:1 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2718 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/21/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the District Attorney, or designee, to execute a contract with Pryme Infil in an amount not to exceed $7,500 for the usage of a software for investigative team operations for the period September 10, 2024 through August 19, 2025. (100% General Fund) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Diana Becton, District Attorney Report Title:Pryme Infil License Agreement ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the District Attorney, or designee, to execute a Software License Agreement with Pryme Infil in an amount not to exceed $7,500 for the usage of a software for investigative team operations for the period September 10, 2024 through August 19, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this action will result in expenditures of up to $7,500 which are included in the Department’s FY2024-2025 Budget and within its General Fund allocation. BACKGROUND: Individuals working in the Bureau of Investigations within the District Attorney’s Office will utilize Pryme Infil software for safe mission, operational planning, and risk assessments. The software allows for the creation, modification, and approval of operational orders in the field, improving operational efficiency. The software allows the investigative team to coordinate real time communications, surveillance, and arrests in a secure end to end encrypted chat forum within the app. Users will also be able to send emergency notifications to team members that bypasses the Do Not Disturb feature for smartphones. In addition, the software could track team members’ equipment and training records to ensure training compliance. The Pryme Infil Software License Agreement includes limitation of liability which requires approval from the Board of Supervisors. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Without executing the Software License Agreement, the District Attorney’s Office cannot utilize the software to improve investigative team operations. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2718,Version:1 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2719 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/26/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the District Attorney, or designee, to execute a contract with Lexipol, LLC. in an amount not to exceed $14,724 for accessing law enforcement policy updates and training resources for the period September 11, 2024 through September 10, 2025. (100% General Fund) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Diana Becton, District Attorney Report Title:Lexipol Master Service Agreement ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the District Attorney, or designee, to execute a Master Service Agreement with Lexipol, LLC. in an amount not to exceed $14,724 for accessing law enforcement policy update and training resources for the period September 11, 2024 through September 10, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this action will result in expenditures of up to $14,724 of General Fund, which is included in the FY2024-2025 Departmental Budget. BACKGROUND: Constitutionally sound, up-to-date policies are the foundation for consistent, safe public safety operations and are key to reducing risk and enhancing personnel and community safety. The Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office Bureau of Investigations utilizes Lexipol to keep specific policies for everyday operations. Lexipol’s legal and content development teams continuously review state and federal laws and regulations, court decisions and evolving best practices. New and updated policies are provided by Lexipol to the DA’s Office. These policies guide DA inspectors on how to accomplish their respective duties while mitigating risk for the agency and the county. Lexipol also provides training and resources to accomplish these policies and their effective implementation. The Lexipol Master Service Agreement includes limitation of liability which requires approval from the Board of Supervisors. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Without executing the Lexipol Master Service Agreement, the District Attorney’s Office Bureau of CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2719,Version:1 Investigations cannot access critical law enforcement policy update and training resources. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:1RES 2024- 301 Name: Status:Type:Consent Resolution Passed File created:In control:8/20/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:ADOPT Resolution No. 2024-301 to approve and to authorize the Employment and Human Services Director, or designee, to execute a revenue amendment with the State of California Department of Community Services and Development to increase funding by $1,313,032 to a new payment limit not to exceed $4,940,009 for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, with no change to the term through June 30, 2025. (100% Federal) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally adoptedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To: Board of Supervisors From:Marla Stuart, Employment and Human Services Director Report Title:CSB - Contract # 39-806-57 California Department of Community Services and Development, Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: ADOPT a resolution to approve and to authorize the Employment and Human Services Director, or designee, to execute a revenue amendment agreement with the State of California Department of Community Services and Development to increase funding by $1,313,032 for a new payment limit not to exceed $4,940,009 for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, for the period November 1, 2023, through June 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: $1,313,032: 100% Federal funds, all of which is budgeted in FY 24-25. No County match. AL #93.568; State Agreement 24B-2005. BACKGROUND: On December 12, 2023, the Board approved item C.50 authorizing execution of a contract with the State of California Department of Community Services and Development (CSD) for the term November 1, 2023 to June 30, 2025. The County routinely receives funding from CSD wherein Contra Costa County provides energy bill assistance payments and/or weatherization services to residents who are income eligible through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and the Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP). The priority for CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 3 powered by Legistar™ File #:RES 2024-301,Version:1 services is to those households with the lowest income and highest energy burden. LIHEAP priority is to serve households with the following vulnerable populations: young children (ages 5 years or under), disabled, and elderly persons (ages 60 years or older). This Staff Report will increase funding by $1,313,032 for a new payment limit not to exceed $4,940,009 with no change to the term. CHILDREN’S IMPACT STATEMENT: This Contract supports the fourth community outcome in the Children’s Report Card: (4) “Families that are Safe, Stable and Nurturing.” CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Should the proposed action not be approved by the Board of Supervisors, the County will not be able to receive funding to support the LHEAP initiative in Contra Costa County. THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA and for Special Districts, Agencies and Authorities Governed by the Board IN THE MATTER OF California Department of Community Services and Development, Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program Revenue Agreement 24B-2005 WHEREAS, the Employment and Human Services Department received notification from the State Department of Community Services Development on October 25, 2023 to execute a revenue agreement for the 2024-25 Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), and WHEREAS, the County routinely receives funding from CSD to provide energy bill assistance payments and/or weatherization services to residents who are income eligible through LIHEAP and the Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP), and WHEREAS, the program offers energy saving measures to Contra Costa residents to assist with home energy efficiency, and WHEREAS, residents may also qualify for the Utility Assistance Program, which provides credit on their energy bills, and WHEREAS, priority for services is to those households with the lowest income and highest energy burden, and WHEREAS, priority is to service those households with the following vulnerable populations: young children (ages 5 years or under), disabled, and elderly persons (ages 60 years or older), and WHEREAS, the Board of Supervisors originally approved the County’s allocation of $3,626,977 for the 2024- 25 program year on December 12, 2023, (C. 50), and WHEREAS, this action is to accept the County’s additional allocation of $1,313,032 for an amount not to exceed $4,940,009 for the 2024-25 program year. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Contra Costa Board of Supervisors approve and authorize the Employment and Human Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract amendment with the State of California Department of Community Services and Development to accept an increase in funding of $1,313,032 for a new amount not to exceed $4,940,009 for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 3 powered by Legistar™ File #:RES 2024-301,Version:1 for the period of November 1, 2023, through June 30, 2025. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 3 of 3 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:1RES 2024- 302 Name: Status:Type:Consent Resolution Passed File created:In control:8/20/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:ADOPT Resolution No. 2024-302 to approve and authorize the Employment and Human Services Director, or designee, to execute a revenue amendment with the State of California Department of Community Services and Development to increase funding by $19,000 for a total payment limit not to exceed $964,470 to provide Community Services Block Grant program services with no change to the term through April 30, 2025. (100% Federal) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally adoptedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To: Board of Supervisors From:Marla Stuart, Employment and Human Services Director Report Title:Contract #39-813-61 2024 State of California Department of Community Services and Development, Community Services Block Grant Revenue Agreement #24F-3007 ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: ADOPT a resolution to approve and authorize the Employment and Human Services Director, or designee, to execute a revenue amendment with the State of California Department of Community Services and Development to increase funding by $19,000 for a total payment limit not to exceed $964,470 to provide Community Services Block Grant program services for the period January 1, 2024, through April 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: $19,000: 100% Federal funding from the State of California Department of Community Services and Development. There is no county match requirement. CFDA/AL # 93.568 State Agreement Number: 24F-3007 BACKGROUND: On March 26, 2024, the Board approved item C.25 to execute a contract with the State of California Department of Community Services and Development for the term January 1, 2024 through April 30, 2025. The Employment and Human Services Department was awarded the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) funding from the California Department of Community Services and Development to operate self-sufficiency CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 4 powered by Legistar™ File #:RES 2024-302,Version:1 programs. Notification was given to the County on November 28, 2023. The self-sufficiency programs provide housing payment assistance, food distribution, wrap-around health & mental health services, and employment training under the advisement of the County’s Economic Opportunity Council. Approval of this action will increase funding by $19,000 for a total payment limit not to exceed $964,470 with no change to the term. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Should the proposed action not be approved by the Board of Supervisors, the County will not be able operate CSBG self-sufficiency programs in the community, and to establish partnerships with community-based agencies and public organizations through CSBG funding. CHILDREN’S IMPACT STATEMENT: This contract supports two (2) of Contra Costa County’s community outcomes of the Children’s Report Card: (3) "Families that are Economically Self-Sufficient” and (4) "Families that are Safe, Stable and Nurturing". CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 4 powered by Legistar™ File #:RES 2024-302,Version:1 THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA and for Special Districts, Agencies and Authorities Governed by the Board IN THE MATTER OF: 2024 State of California Department of Community Services and Development, Community Services Block Grant Revenue Agreement #24F-3005 WHEREAS, on March 26, 2024, the Board approved item C.25 to execute a contract with the State of California Department of Community Services and Development for the term January 1, 2024 through April 30, 2025, and WHEREAS, the Employment and Human Services Department was awarded the Community Services Block Grant funding from the California Department of Community Services and Development to operate self-sufficiency programs, and WHEREAS, notification was given to the County on November 28, 2023, and WHEREAS, the self-sufficiency programs provide housing payment assistance, food distribution, wrap-around health & mental health services, and employment training under the advisement of the County’s Economic Opportunity Council. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: The Board hereby adopts Resolution No. to approve and authorize the Employment and Human Services Director, or designee, to execute a revenue amendment with the State of California Department of Community Services and Development to increase funding by $19,000 for a total payment limit not to exceed $964,470 to provide Community Services Block Grant program services for the period January 1, 2024, through April 30, 2025. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 3 of 4 powered by Legistar™ File #:RES 2024-302,Version:1 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 4 of 4 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:1RES 2024- 300 Name: Status:Type:Consent Resolution Passed File created:In control:8/20/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:ADOPT Resolution No. 2024-300 to approve and authorize the Employment and Human Services Director, or designee, to execute a revenue agreement with the State of California Department of Community Services and Development, in amount not to exceed $111,567 for the Supplemental Low Income Energy Assistance Program, for the period May 1, 2024 through May 31, 2025. (100% Federal) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally adoptedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To: Board of Supervisors From:Marla Stuart, Employment and Human Services Director Report Title:CSB Contract #39-806-56 State of California Department of Community Services and Development, Supplemental Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: ADOPT a resolution to approve and authorize the Employment and Human Services Director, or designee, to execute a revenue agreement with the State of California Department of Community Services and Development, in amount not to exceed $111,567 for the Supplemental Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, for the period May 1, 2024 through May 31, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: $111,567: 100% Federal, funded by the California Department of Community Services and Development, all of which is budgeted in FY 24-25. No County match required. AL#: 93.568; State Agreement Number: 24Q-2554. BACKGROUND: The County routinely receives funding from the California Department of Community Services and Development (CSD) wherein Contra Costa County provides energy bill assistance payments and/or weatherization services to residents who are income eligible through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and the Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP). The priority for services is to those households with the lowest income and highest energy burden. LIHEAP priority is to service those households CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 3 powered by Legistar™ File #:RES 2024-300,Version:1 with the following vulnerable populations: young children (ages five years or under), disabled, and elderly persons (ages 60 years or older). Supplemental Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (SLIHEAP) provides additional funding to support the operation of LIHEAP and ECIP. The program is operated by the Employment and Human Services Department (EHSD), Community Services Bureau (CSB). This action is to approve funds in the amount of $111,567 for the 2024 SLIHEAP, FY 2024- 2025. This contract is late due to staffing transitions in CSB that resulted in the Department not receiving the Notice of Award until June 18, 2024. CHILDREN’S IMPACT STATEMENT: This Contract supports the fourth community outcome in the Children’s Report Card: (4) “Families that are Safe, Stable and Nurturing”. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Should the proposed action not be approved by the Board of Supervisors, the County will not receive funding to be able to provide services to eligible residents for SLIHEAP in Contra Costa County to meet their energy needs. THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 3 powered by Legistar™ File #:RES 2024-300,Version:1 and for Special Districts, Agencies and Authorities Governed by the Board IN THE MATTER OF State of California Department of Community Services and Development, Supplemental Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program Revenue Agreement 24Q-2554. WHEREAS, the County routinely receives funding from the California Department of Community Services and Development wherein Contra Costa County provides energy bill assistance payments and/or weatherization services to residents who are income eligible through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and the Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP), and WHEREAS, priority for services is to those households with the lowest income and highest energy burden, and WHEREAS, LIHEAP priority is to service those households with the following vulnerable populations: young children (ages five years or under), disabled, and elderly persons (ages 60 years or older), and WHEREAS, Supplemental Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (SLIHEAP) provides additional funding to support the operation of LIHEAP and ECIP, and WHEREAS, the program is operated by the Employment and Human Services Department (EHSD), Community Services Bureau (CSB), and WHEREAS, this action is to approve funds in the amount of $111,567 for the 2024 SLIHEAP, FY 2024-2025. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors adopt a resolution to approve and authorize the Employment and Human Services Director, or designee, to execute a revenue agreement with the State of California Department of Community Services and Development, in amount not to exceed $111,567 for the Supplemental Low Income Energy Assistance Program, for the period May 1, 2024 through May 31, 2025. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 3 of 3 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2726 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:7/22/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Auditor-Controller, or designee, to pay up to eleven In-Home Supportive Services Public Authority Advisory Council members, $24 per meeting for 21 meetings in the fiscal year 2024-2025 starting July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025, for a total cost not to exceed $5,550 in stipends, to defray meeting attendance costs, as recommended by the Employment and Human Services Director. (50% Federal, 47% State, 3% County) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Marla Stuart, Employment and Human Services Director Report Title:Contract # 20-362-2 In-House Supportive Services Public Authority Advisory Council Stipends ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Auditor-Controller, or designee, to pay up to eleven In-Home Supportive Services Public Authority Advisory Council members, $24 per meeting for 21 meetings in the fiscal year 2024- 2025 starting July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025, for a total cost not to exceed $5,550 in stipends, to defray meeting attendance costs, as recommended by the Employment and Human Services Director. FISCAL IMPACT: $5,550: 50% Federal, 47% State, 3% County funds; all of which is budgeted in FY 24-25. BACKGROUND: The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors' Ordinance No. 2001-7, Division 55-2.210 established the In- Home Supportive Services (IHSS) Public Authority Advisory Committee. The Primary role of IHSS Public Authority Committee is to serve in an advisory capacity to the Public Authority Governing Board (Board of Supervisors), Public Authority staff, and the administrators of IHSS. The IHSS Public Authority Advisory Council members receive $24 stipends to attend Advisory Council meetings, paid through the Auditor-Controller's office to defray attendance costs of members. The action is recommended by the IHSS Public Authority Advisory Board. Stipends are acceptable Advisory Committee expenditures as outlined in County Fiscal Letter 08/09-10 published by the California Department of Social Services on August 8, 2008. The IHSS Public Authority receives an annual allocation every year to cover the CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2726,Version:1 costs of IHSS Public Authority Advisory Committee. The federal and state governments reimburse the expenses quarterly through an established claiming process. Previous stipends have been authorized by the Board of Supervisors on May 23, 2023, for FY 2023-24 (C.82). CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Should the proposed action not be approved by the Board of Supervisors, meeting costs may be prohibitive for members. CHILDREN'S IMPACT STATEMENT: The services provided under this contract support two of Contra Costa County’s community outcomes: (1)"Families that are Economically Self-Sufficient" and (4) "Families that are Safe, Stable and Nurturing." CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2727 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:7/31/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Employment and Human Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract amendment with the California Department of Aging to accept additional funds in an amount not to exceed $317,861 for a new funding total not to exceed $1,767,561 and shorten the term for a new period ending September 30, 2024. (100% state) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Marla Stuart, Employment and Human Services Director Report Title:Contract # 29-489-1 (AAS) Amendment to Revenue Agreement with California Department of Aging Access to Technology Program ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Employment and Human Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract amendment with the California Department of Aging to accept additional funds in an amount not to exceed $317,861 for a new funding total not to exceed $1,767,561 and to shorten the term for a new period ending September 30, 2024. FISCAL IMPACT: $317,861: 100% state funded. No match is required. BACKGROUND: On August 9, 2022, the Board approved item (C.29) authorizing execution of agreement number AT-2223-07 to accept funding in an amount not to exceed $1,449,700 from the California Department of Aging (CDA) for the period October 1, 2022, through December 31, 2024, for the Access to Technology (ATT) program. ATT is one of several programs funded by the CDA through the Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) and granted to the local Area Agencies on Aging (AAA). Amendment to County’s AT-2223-07 agreement with the CDA for the ATT program shortens the contract term by three months for a new contract period of October 1, 2022, through September 30, 2024, and provides additional funding in an amount not to exceed $317,816 for a new contract total amount not to exceed $1,767,561. The amendment contains General Terms and Conditions which includes a Mutual Liability provision. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2727,Version:1 County’s agreement with CDA for AT-2223-07, Amendment 1 is administered locally by the Employment and Human Services Department’s Aging and Adult Services Bureau, Area Agency on Aging (AAA) division. The AAA provides services to residents 60 years and older, adults with disabilities, and family caregivers in Contra Costa County to support their ability to live independently in the community for as long as possible. CHILDREN'S IMPACT STATEMENT: This contract supports the fourth community outcome of Contra Costa County’s Children’s Report Card: (4) “Families that are Safe, Stable and Nurturing”. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: County will not be able to deliver additional services to older adults and adults with disabilities. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2728 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/2/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Employment and Human Services Director, or designee, to oversee the activities of the Head Start and Early Head Start 2024-2025 Admission Priorities and Selection criteria control as recommended by the Employment and Human Services Director. Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Marla Stuart, Employment and Human Services Director Report Title:2024-2025 Head Start and Early Head Start Admission Priorities and Selection Criteria Procedures ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Employment and Human Services Director, or designee, to oversee the activities of the Head Start and Early Head Start 2024-2025 Admission Priorities and Selection criteria control as recommended by the Employment and Human Services Director. FISCAL IMPACT: There is no fiscal impact for this action. BACKGROUND: The Head Start Performance standard requires Board approval of selection criteria each year. The Policy Council approved the selection on February 21, 2024. The Board of Supervisors were updated on these procedures on April 9, 2024 (D.1). However, the prior Staff Report only provided updates and did not request approval. This Staff Report is to request the approval of the 2024-2025 Admission Priorities and Selection Criteria procedures for Head Start and Early Head Start. CHILDREN’S IMPACT STATEMENT: This request supports all of Contra Costa County’s community outcomes of the Children’s Report Card. (1) "Children Ready for and Succeeding in School”. (2) "Children and Youth Healthy and Preparing for Productive Adulthood”. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2728,Version:1 (3) "Families that are Economically Self-Sufficient”. (4) "Families that are Safe, Stable and Nurturing"; and (5) "Communities that are Safe and Provide a High Quality of Life for Children and Families.” CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Should the proposed action not be approved by the Board of Supervisors, the County will be out of compliance of Head Start Performance standards. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CSB Admissions Priorities / Selection Criteria 2024-2025 Program Year 1) Denotes categorical eligibility as per Head Start Performance Standard 1302.14 (b). 2) At least 10 percent of the enrollment will be made available to children who meet the definition for children with disabilities. 3) Pre-School Selection Priorities apply to both Full Day and Part Day programs unless otherwise specified. 4) Admissions Priorities / Selection Criteria, approved by Policy Council on 02/21/2024 and approved by Board of Supervisors on xx/xx/2024 Head Start Performance Standard 1302.14 (a)(1) mandates that the program set criteria, based on our Community Assessment, that define the types of children and families who will be given priority for recruitment and selection. Kindergarten is available in all communities that we serve. Due to the community need for full-day, full-year services, and the mandate that the Head Start & Early Head Start Program collaborate for full-day services, CSB has adopted the following selection criteria presented in order of priority, which also meets the regulations of our partner, the California Department of Education and California Department of Social Services. INFANTS & TODDLERS (Aged 0-3, including pregnant women) PRE-SCHOOL (Aged 3-5) Transfers for children currently enrolled in Early Head Start and California Childcare and Development programs will be accommodated before enrolling any new children. Siblings in a currently enrolled family may be given priority. 1. Child Protective Services / Child At Risk referrals or in Foster care 2. Children from families from the lowest income according to the income ranking a. When 2 or more have the same ranking then infants/toddlers with disabilities (IEP or IFSP) take priority b. If there is no family of the same priority with a child with exceptional needs, the family of the same priority in which the primary home language is a language other than English shall be admitted first. c. If there is no family of the same priority in which the primary home language is a language other than English, the family of the same priority that has been on the waiting list for the longest time shall be admitted first. Requested transfers for children currently enrolled in Head Start and California State Preschool Programs (CSPP) will be accommodated before enrolling any new children. Siblings in a currently enrolled family may be given priority. 1. 3 or 4 year olds with Child Protective Services / At Risk referrals or in Foster Care 2. 3 or 4 year olds with disabilities (after the set aside 10% has been filled) w/incomes below the eligibility guidelines 3. 4 year olds not enrolled in Transitional Kindergarten (TK) a. Part Day only: Children enrolled in CSPP as a 3 year old b. Lowest income according to the income ranking i. When 2 or more have the same ranking then those with the Dual Language Learner designation take priority ii. If no Dual Language Learner then whomever has been on the waiting list the longest 4. 3 year olds Lowest income according to the income ranking a. When 2 or more have the same ranking then those with the Dual Language Learner designation take priority b. If no Dual Language Learner then whomever has been on the waiting list the longest 5. 3 or 4 year olds from families with incomes no more than 15% above the income guideline. a. 4 year olds with exceptional needs (after the set aside % has been met) then 3 year olds with exceptional needs b. 4 year olds without exceptional needs before 3 year olds without exceptional needs After all other eligible children have been enrolled: 6. Full day only: 3 or 4 year olds that meet eligibility criteria without having a need for services a. Lowest income ranking i. When 2 or more have the same ranking 4 year olds then 3 year olds 7. 3 or 4 year olds that live within the attendance boundaries of a qualified free and reduced price lunch school 8. Part day only: Children enrolling to provide expanded learning and care to TK enrolled children Head Start and Early Head Start - Additional Priorities 1. Currently Homeless or Homeless within the last 18 months 2. Current TANF Recipient (cash aid) or within 24 months 3. Teen parents (EHS only) 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2729 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/19/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Employment and Human Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with The Glen Price Group in an amount not to exceed $399,890 to provide funding opportunity monitoring, grant writing, and strategic planning services for the Employment and Human Services Department for the period July 23, 2024 through June 30, 2025. (100% County) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Marla Stuart, Employment and Human Services Director Report Title:Contract # 20-472-2 (Alliance) The Glen Price Group ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Employment and Human Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with The Glen Price Group in an amount not to exceed $399,890 to provide funding opportunity monitoring, grant writing, and strategic planning services for the Employment and Human Services Department for the period July 23, 2024 through June 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: $399,890: 100% County; all of which is budgeted in FY 24-25. BACKGROUND: On June 13, 2023, the Board approved consent item C.100 authorizing a contract with The Glen Price Group for the term March 22, 2023 to February 29, 2024. On October 3, 2023, the Board approved consent item C.22 to extend the termination date to June 30, 2024 to continue providing strategic planning, fund monitoring, and grant writing services with no change to the original payment limit. This contract renewal will allow for continued support of the Employment and Human Services Department in fund development, grant writing and strategic planning services. This contract has an approved Sole Source Justification. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Should the proposed action not be approved by the Board of Supervisors, the Employment and Human Services CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2729,Version:1 Department will not be able to continue to take advantage of strategic planning, fund development, nor grant writing services, available for units to set strategic plans and secure grant funding. CHILDREN'S IMPACT STATEMENT: This contract supports all of Contra Costa County’s community outcomes of the Children’s Report Card, (1) "Children Ready for and Succeeding in School"; (2) "Children and Youth Healthy and Preparing for Productive Adulthood"; (3) "Families that are Economically Self-Sufficient"; (4) "Families that are Safe, Stable and Nurturing"; and (5) "Communities that are Safe and Provide a High Quality of Life for Children and Families.” CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2730 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/20/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Employment and Human Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract amendment with Summit Building Services, Inc., to extend the term through July 31, 2025 with no change to total payment limit of $625,000, to provide custodial services at Community Services Bureau facilities. (76% State, 24% Federal) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Marla Stuart, Employment and Human Services Director Report Title:CSB - Contract #38-085-1 Summit Building Services, Inc. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Employment and Human Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract amendment with Summit Building Services, Inc., to extend the term end date from July 31, 2024 to July 31, 2025 with no change to total payment limit of $625,000, to provide custodial services at Community Services Bureau facilities. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of the amendment will have no additional fiscal impact. (76% State; 24% Federal) BACKGROUND: Summit Building Services, Inc. has been providing custodial services to several county-operated childcare sites for 10 years. These services were formerly provided via a contract agreement between the Contractor and the Public Works Department. EHSD established a contract, which the Board approved on August 8, 2023 (C.23). EHSD’s childcare locations are remotely located, outside of the normal routes of County custodial staff, and require nighttime services. County custodial services do not have the ability to manage or oversee employees under these parameters. This action is to approve a contract extension through July 31, 2025 with no change to the payment limit and has no impact on the current custodial staff. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2730,Version:1 CHILDREN'S IMPACT STATEMENT: This Contract supports three of Contra Costa County’s community outcomes - Outcome 1: Children Ready for and Succeeding in School, Outcome 3: Families that are Economically Self-sufficient, and Outcome 4: Families that are Safe, Stable, and Nurturing. These outcomes are achieved by offering comprehensive services, including high quality early childhood education, nutrition, and health services to low-income children throughout Contra Costa County. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Should the proposed action not be approved, custodial services with Summit Building Services, Inc. will be discontinued and EHSD facilities will not have the appropriate custodial work mandated by Office of Head Start, California Department of Education, and California Department of Social Services. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2731 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/20/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Employment and Human Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Contra Costa Family Justice Alliance dba Family Justice Center, in an amount not to exceed $387,588 to provide intervention and prevention of interpersonal violence services in Contra Costa County for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. (100% County) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Marla Stuart, Employment and Human Services Director Report Title:Contract # 20-571-0 Contra Costa Family Justice Alliance ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Employment and Human Services Director,or designee,to execute a contract with Contra Costa Family Justice Alliance dba Family Justice Center,in an amount not to exceed $387,588 to provide intervention and prevention of interpersonal violence services in Contra Costa County for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: $387,588: 100% County funds, Alliance to End Abuse, all of which is budgeted in FY 24-25. BACKGROUND: The Employment and Human Services Department (EHSD)engaged in solicitation as outlined in Administrative Bulletin 600.3 and issued Request for Proposal (RFP)#1205 Violence Intervention and/or Prevention.Contra Costa Family Justice Alliance (FJC)was the selected bidder to provide services to intervene in interpersonal violence in Contra Costa County.This Contract provides navigation services for survivors of violence including needs assessments,safety planning,elder abuse prevention,telehealth services and workshops for survivors or violence. CHILDREN'S IMPACT STATEMENT: This contract supports three (3)of Contra Costa County’s community outcomes of the Children’s Report Card: "Families that are Economically Self-Sufficient";"Families that are Safe,Stable and Nurturing";and "Communities that are Safe and Provide a High Quality of Life for Children and Families.” CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2731,Version:1 Should the proposed action not be approved, the County will not have access to Contractor’s services to effectively provide navigation services to survivors of interpersonal violence. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2732 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/20/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Employment and Human Services Director, or designee, to execute a non-financial Agreement with the California Department of Social Services to provide legal consultation and representation services associated with the Resource Family Approval Program for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2027. (No fiscal impact) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Marla Stuart, Employment and Human Services Director Report Title:Agreement #20-392-1 with California Department of Social Services, Resource Family Approval Program ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Employment and Human Services Director, or designee, to execute a non- financial Agreement with the California Department of Social Services to provide legal consultation and representation services associated with the Resource Family Approval Program for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2027. FISCAL IMPACT: No fiscal impact. BACKGROUND: The Resource Family Approval (RFA) Program is a unified, family-friendly and child-centered caregiver approval process to license foster homes, approving relatives and non-relative extended family members as foster care providers and approving adoptive families. It establishes a set of standards for resource family approvals which allow for the safety, permanence, and well-being of the children who have been victims of child abuse and neglect and decreases the length of time for each child to obtain permanency. California Department of Social Services (CDSS) provides legal consultation and legal representation services in administrative action appeals associated with the RFA Program. Pursuant to Government Code section 30029.7 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2732,Version:1 subdivision (a)(3), the County and CDSS may enter into an agreement for CDSS to provide services or activities related to RFA. Employment and Human Services (EHSD) desires to renew the Agreement with CDSS in alignment with the government code. On September 7, 2021, the Board of Supervisors approved an Agreement with CDSS to provide legal consultation and legal representation services in administrative action appeals associated with the RFA Program for the period July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2024 (C.133). This Agreement will renew the prior approved Agreement for a term July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2027. This Agreement contains mutual indemnification and insurance language, which has been reviewed and approved by County’s Risk Management Department. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Should the proposed action be rejected by the Board of Supervisors,EHSD will not have additional legal representation capacity to address RFA appeals. CHILDREN’S IMPACT STATEMENT: This agreement supports all five of the community outcomes established in the Children's Report Card: 1) "Children Ready for and Succeeding in School"; 2) "Children and Youth Healthy and Preparing for Productive Adulthood"; 3) "Families that are Economically Self Sufficient"; 4) "Families that are Safe, Stable and Nurturing"; and 5) "Communities that are Safe and Provide a High Quality of Life for Children and Families" by providing legal services to support the appeals process for caregivers seeking resource family approval to care for youth involved in Contra Costa County child welfare. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2733 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/21/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Employment and Human Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Community Violence Solutions, in an amount not to exceed $280,065 to provide prevention and intervention services for survivors of interpersonal violence in Contra Costa County for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. (100% County) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Marla Stuart, Employment and Human Services Director Report Title:20-574-0 Community Violence Solutions ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Employment and Human Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Community Violence Solutions, in an amount not to exceed $280,065 to provide prevention and intervention services for survivors of interpersonal violence in Contra Costa County for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: $280,065: 100% County funds, all of which is budgeted in FY 24-25. BACKGROUND: The Employment and Human Services Department (EHSD) engaged in solicitation as outlined in Administrative Bulletin 600.3 and issued Request for Proposal (RFP) 1205 Violence Intervention and/or Prevention. Community Violence Solutions (CVS) was a selected bidder to provide comprehensive interpersonal violence prevention and intervention services for survivors of interpersonal violence in Contra Costa County. CVS provides 24/7 crisis support as well as advocacy services for survivors of interpersonal violence. CVS provides healthy relationship workshops to students/adults in Contra Costa County to prevent and interrupt the cycle of dating violence and interpersonal violence. This contract is late due to additional time needed to complete the RFP process than originally anticipated. CHILDREN'S IMPACT STATEMENT: CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2733,Version:1 This contract supports all of Contra Costa County’s community outcomes of the Children’s Report Card”, “Children Ready for and Succeeding in School";(2)"Children and Youth Healthy and Preparing for Productive Adulthood",(3)"Families that are Economically Self-Sufficient";Families that are Safe,Stable and Nurturing"; and " Communities that are Safe and Provide a High Quality of Life for Children and Families.” CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: County will be limited in its ability to provide crisis support or advocacy services to survivors of interpersonal violence, and to provide prevention services to prevent interpersonal violence within Contra Costa County. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2734 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/23/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Employment and Human Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract amendment with Community Tech Network, a non-profit agency, to increase the payment limit by $317,861 to a new amount not to exceed $764,861, to provide additional digital literacy services and tablets to seniors and adults with disabilities funded under the Access to Technology Grant Program with no change to the term through September 30, 2024. (100% State) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Marla Stuart, Employment and Human Services Director Report Title:Contract #40-538-1 with the Community Tech Network (CTN) for the Access to Technology (ATT) Program ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Employment and Human Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract amendment with Community Tech Network, a non-profit agency to increase the payment limit by $317,861, to a new amount not to exceed $764,861, to provide additional digital literacy services and tablets to seniors and adults with disabilities funded under the Access to Technology Grant Program with no change to period February 1, 2024, through September 30, 2024. FISCAL IMPACT: $317,861: 100% State funds, all of which is budgeted in FY 24-25. BACKGROUND: On February 27, 2024 the Board approved Consent Item C.53 authorizing the execution of a contract with Community Tech Network in the amount of $447,000 to provide services and tablets to seniors and adults with disabilities funded under the Access to Technology Grant Program for the period February 1, 2024 through September 30, 2024. This contract is being subsequently amended to provide additional funding of $317,861, making the new total payment limit $764,861 for additional digital literacy services and tablets. There is no change to the term. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2734,Version:1 CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Without additional funding, many older adults and adults with disabilities in Contra Costa County will remain socially isolated and lack access to technology. CHILDREN'S IMPACT STATEMENT: The services provided under this Contract support number four (4) of the five (5) Contra Costa County’s community outcomes; four (4) Families that are Safe, Stable and Nurturing. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2735 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/8/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent or designee, to execute on behalf of the Employment and Human Services Department, a purchase order and related agreement with AlxTel, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $74,100 for the purchase of ServiceNow licenses, subject to ServiceNow’s Terms of Service, for the period March 31, 2024 through September 30, 2024. (59% Federal, 35% State, 6% County) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Marla Stuart, Employment and Human Services Director Report Title:20-582-0 (Admin - IT) Purchase Order for Licenses for ServiceNow Software ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent or designee, to execute on behalf of the Employment and Human Services Department, a purchase order and related agreement with AlxTel, Inc. for the purchase of ServiceNow licenses, subject to ServiceNow’s Terms of Service, in an amount not to exceed $74,100 for the period March 31, 2024, through September 30, 2024. FISCAL IMPACT: $74,100: 59% Federal, 35% State, and 6% County; all of which will be budgeted in FY 24-25. BACKGROUND: The Employment and Human Services Department (EHSD) utilizes an Information Technology (IT) help desk ticketing system to log, distribute, track and complete service requests from EHSD staff and social workers. These requests include repairing computer equipment, adding software, and correcting errors in State and other data systems. EHSD is in the process of replacing the system purchased in 2014 with ServiceNow’s cloud-based help desk software. The software is accessed using licenses. This purchase order is to request renewal of the licenses and includes a service agreement that includes a limitation of liability provision capping liability at the amounts paid in the 12 months prior to any claim arising. This staff report is late due to an administrative change for purchase order approval which in the past was handled through the Purchasing Agent via a warrant request. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2735,Version:1 CHILDREN'S IMPACT STATEMENT: This purchase order supports the third outcome of Contra Costa County’s community outcomes of the Children’s Report Card, “Families that are Economically Self Sufficient”. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Should the proposed action not be approved by the Board of Supervisors, the County will not be able to access ServiceNow’s IT help desk software and will not be able to leverage its automated ticketing system to reduce errors and improve service request resolution time. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2736 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/16/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute on behalf of the Employment and Human Services Director, a purchase order and related agreement with Ivanti, Inc., in an amount not to exceed $5,619 for the purchase of Goldmine Premium Maintenance for the period May 1, 2024 through April 30, 2027. (59% Federal, 35% State, 6% County) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Marla Stuart, Employment and Human Services Director Report Title:Ivanti, Inc.Purchase Order #20-546-0 (Admin) ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute on behalf of the Employment and Human Services Director a purchase order and related agreement with Ivanti, Inc., in an amount not to exceed $5,619 for the purchase of Goldmine Premium Maintenance for the period May 1, 2024 through April 30, 2027. FISCAL IMPACT: $5,618.43: 59% Federal, 35% State, 6% County funds; all of which is budgeted in FY 24/25. BACKGROUND: The Employment and Human Services Department, Independent Living Skills Program Unit seeks to renew services with Ivanti, Inc. This purchase order will enable staff to use Goldmine as an internal database where staff can track youth and their participation in the program. Staff track youth participation, incentives earned, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, social worker contact information, etc. Ivanti’s End User License and Service Agreement includes an indemnification provision. The vendor was selected per procurement requirements outlined in Administrative Bulletin 600.3. This Purchase Order is late due to additional time needed to confirm the proper company name. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Should the proposed action not be approved, County will be restricted in its ability to track participation and CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2736,Version:1 provide services to youth participants in the independent Living Skills Program. CHILDREN'S IMPACT STATEMENT: This agreement supports all five of the community outcomes established in the Children's Report Card: (1) "Children Ready for and Succeeding in School"; (2) "Children and Youth Healthy and Preparing for Productive Adulthood";(3)"Families that are Economically Self-Sufficient"; (4) "Families that are Safe, Stable and Nurturing"; and (5) "Communities that are Safe and Provide a High Quality of Life for Children and Families,” by supporting staff working directly with families and children. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2737 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/20/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent or designee, to execute on behalf of Employment and Human Services Department, a purchase order and related agreement with AlxTel, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $162,923 for the purchase of ServiceNow licenses, subject to ServiceNow’s Terms of Service, for the period October 1, 2024 through September 30, 2025. (59% Federal, 35% State, 6% County) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Marla Stuart, Employment and Human Services Director Report Title:20-554-0 Purchase Order for Licenses for ServiceNow Software ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent or designee, to execute on behalf of Employment and Human Services Department, a purchase order and related agreement with AlxTel, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $162,924 for the purchase of ServiceNow licenses, subject to ServiceNow’s Terms of Service, for the period October 1, 2024, through September 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: $162,923.28: 59% Federal, 35% State, and 6% County; all of which will be budgeted in FY 24-25. BACKGROUND: The Employment and Human Services Department (EHSD) utilizes an Information Technology (IT) help desk ticketing system to log, distribute, track and complete service requests from EHSD staff and social workers. These requests include repairing computer equipment, adding software, and correcting errors in State and other data systems. EHSD is in the process of replacing the system purchased in 2014 with ServiceNow’s cloud-based help desk software. The software is accessed using licenses. This purchase order is to request renewal of the licenses and ServiceNow’s Terms of Service, including a limitation of liability, capping liability at the amount of fees paid in the 12 months prior to the claim arising. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2737,Version:1 CHILDREN'S IMPACT STATEMENT: This purchase order supports the third outcome of Contra Costa County’s community outcomes of the Children’s Report Card, “Families that are Economically Self Sufficient.” CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: The County will not be able to access ServiceNow’s IT help desk software and will not be able to leverage its automated ticketing system to reduce errors and improve service request resolution time. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2738 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/7/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute on behalf of the Employment and Human Services Director, a purchase order amendment with Absorb Software Inc., to increase the payment limit by $17,333 to a new payment limit not to exceed $211,243 for Learning Management Software hosting services with no change to term through February 22, 2026. (59% Federal, 35% State, 6% County General Fund) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Marla Stuart, Employment and Human Services Director Report Title:Contract #20-509-1 Absorb Software Inc. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute on behalf of the Employment and Human Services Director, an amendment to a purchase order with Absorb Software Inc., to increase the payment limit by $17,333 to a new payment limit not to exceed $211,243 for Learning Management Software hosting services with no change to term January 1, 2024 through February 22, 2026. FISCAL IMPACT: $17,333: 59% Federal, 35% State, and 6% County funds; $8,666.50 of which is budgeted in FY 24/25 and $8,666.50 of which will be budgeted in FY 25/26. BACKGROUND: The Employment and Human Services Department (EHSD) uses a Learning Management System (LMS) hosted by Absorb Software Inc. To provide more detailed reporting than Absorb Software’s out-of-the-box reporting capability, an additional subscription is needed. This Staff Report is to add the cost of the additional subscription to the existing purchase order. This purchase order includes a service agreement that includes an indemnification clause, which was approved by the Board on December 12, 2023 (C.51). Through a competitive solicitation process per Administrative Bulletin 600.3, EHSD selected Absorb Software Inc. as EHSD’s LMS vendor. On December 12, 2023 the Board approved item C.51 for Purchase order 029474 for the subscription of the hosting service. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2738,Version:1 CHILDREN'S IMPACT STATEMENT: This Purchase Order supports all five of the community outcomes established in the Children's Report Card: (1) "Children Ready for and Succeeding in School"; (2) "Children and Youth Healthy and Preparing for Productive Adulthood";(3)"Families that are Economically Self-Sufficient"; (4) "Families that are Safe, Stable and Nurturing"; and (5) "Communities that are Safe and Provide a High Quality of Life for Children and Families,” by supporting staff working directly with families and children. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: The County will not have access to reporting that will provide details of mandatory staff training, training attendance, and mandated compliance. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2739 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/26/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:Acting as the governing body for the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District and the Crockett- Carquinez Fire Protection District, INTRODUCE Crockett-Carquinez Fire Protection District Ordinance No. 2024-15 and Contra Costa County Fire Protection District Ordinance 2024-16, increasing the limit for informal bidding and informal contracts for public projects, as authorized by the State Public Contract Code; WAIVE the reading; and FIX September 24, 2024 for adoption. (No fiscal impact) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Lewis Broschard, Chief, Contra Costa County Fire Protection District Report Title:Introduce Ordinances Setting Informal Bidding Limits Consistent with Public Contract Code ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: Acting as the governing body for the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District and the Crockett-Carquinez Fire Protection District,INTRODUCE Crockett-Carquinez Fire Protection District Ordinance No.2024-15 and Contra Costa County Fire Protection District Ordinance 2024-16,increasing the limit for informal bidding and informal contracts for public projects,as authorized by the State Public Contract Code;WAIVE the reading; and FIX September 24, 2024 for adoption. FISCAL IMPACT: No fiscal impact. BACKGROUND: In 1993,the County,the Crockett-Carquinez Fire Protection District (Crockett),and the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District (District)elected to become subject to the Uniform Construction Cost Accounting Procedures (UCCAP),which sets the regulations and requirements for public projects.At that time,an ordinance implementing the informal bidding procedures of the Uniform Public Construction Cost Accounting Act (UPCCAA)was adopted.In 2004,the Ordinance was updated to reflect the higher amount allowed by the UPCCAA.Since 2004,the UPCCAA has increased the amount allowed for informal bidding and Ordinance Nos. 2024-15 and 2024-16 update the amount to what the UPCCAA allows. Additionally,this Ordinance grants the authority to award informal contracts to the Fire Chiefs of each fire CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2739,Version:1 protection district, the Public Works Director, and the County Administrator. If approved by the Board, this ordinance will go into effect on October 24, 2024. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If these Ordinances are not adopted,both Crockett and the District will operate under a more restrictive ordinance than the Public Contract Code.Additionally,if not adopted,the Fire Chiefs will not have the authority to award informal contracts. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ ORDINANCE NOS. 2024-15 AND 2024-16 -1- ORDINANCES OF CROCKETT-CARQUINEZ FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT (ORDINANCE NO. 2024-15) AND CONTRA COSTA COUNTY FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT (ORDINANCE NO. 2024-16) IMPLEMENTING THE INFORMAL BIDDING PROCEDURES OF THE UNIFORM PUBLIC CONSTRUCTION COST ACCOUNTING ACT The Board of Supervisors of Contra Costa County, as and constituting the Board of Directors of the Crockett-Carquinez Fire Protection District and the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, ordains as follows: SECTION 1. SUMMARY. This ordinance is adopted pursuant to Public Contract Code Section 22034 for the purposes of implementing the informal bidding procedures of the Uniform Public Construction Cost Accounting Act. This ordinance amends Sections III(a) and V of Crockett-Carquinez Fire Protection District Ordinance No. 2004-17 and Contra Costa County Fire Protection District Ordinance No. 2004-18 by increasing the monetary limit for informal bidding and informal contracts, as authorized by Public Contract Code Section 22032(b). SECTION 2. Section III of Ordinance Nos. 2004-17 and 2004-18 is amended to read: SECTION III. NOTICE INVITING FORMAL BIDS. (a) For public projects with an estimated cost equal to or less than the maximum amount specified in Public Contract Code Section 22032(b) or any successor statute, as may be amended, the department may use informal bidding by mailing a notice inviting informal bids to all contractors for the category of the work being bid, as shown on the list maintained under County Ordinance Code Section 1108-3.206, or to all construction trade journals specified in Public Contract Code Section 22036, or to both all contractors on the list for the category of work being bid and all construction trade journals specified in Public Contract Code Section 22036. Notice may be sent to additional contractors or construction trade journals at the discretion of the department. If there is no list of qualified contractors maintained by the department for the particular category of work to be performed, the notice inviting informal bids need only be sent to the construction trade journals specified by the Commission. SECTION 3. Section V of Ordinance Nos. 2004-17 and 2004-18 is amended to read: Section V. AWARD OF INFORMAL CONTRACTS. Pursuant to Public Contract Code Section 22034, the authority to award informal contracts for those public projects up to the maximum amount specified in Public Contract Code 22032(b) or any successor statute, as may be amended, is delegated to the Fire Chief, the Public Works Director, and the County Administrator to be exercised in accordance with all applicable laws and county policies. ORDINANCE NOS. 2024-15 AND 2024-16 -2- SECTION 4. EFFECTIVE DATE. This ordinance shall become effective thirty (30) days after passage, and, within 15 days of passage, this ordinance shall be published once, with the names of the Supervisors voting for and against it, in the East Bay Times, a newspaper of general circulation published in this County. PASSED and ADOPTED on ________________________by the following vote: AYES: NOES: ABSENT: ABSTAIN: _____________________________ Board Chair ATTEST: MONICA NINO, Clerk of the Board of Supervisors and County Administrator By _________________________ Deputy 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2872 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/23/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:ADOPT Position Adjustment Resolution No. 26321 to add ten (10) Mental Health Clinical Specialist positions for the Behavioral Health A3 Program in the Health Services Department. (100% Measure X)(Represented) Attachments:, Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Position Adjustment Resolution No. 26321 to add ten (10) Mental Health Clinical Specialist positions to the Behavioral Health A3 Program ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: ADOPT Position Adjustment Resolution No. 26321 to add ten (10) Mental Health Clinical Specialist positions to the Behavioral Health A3 Program within Health Services Department. FISCAL IMPACT: Upon approval, this action will result in an annual cost increase of $1,820,088.55 with pension costs of $265,896.12 already included to the Behavioral Health Division. These positions will be funded by Measure X. BACKGROUND: Contra Costa County’s A3 Crisis Response Program provides mobile crisis response in the Contra Costa community to anyone, anywhere, at any time. Due to an influx in community need, Behavioral Health is requesting to add 10 (ten) Mental Health Clinical Specialists which are critical to provide field-based crisis intervention, mental health screenings, and 5150 evaluations of adults experiencing a behavioral health crisis. The Mental Health Clinical Specialists will work collaboratively with an interdisciplinary team to provide de- escalation, stabilization and linkage services. Other duties include writing and implementing 5150 psychiatric holds, coordinating with law enforcement and emergency medical services as needed. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If not approved, Contra Costa Health would not be able to provide critical crisis response services. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2872,Version:1 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ POSITION ADJUSTMENT REQUEST C.57 NO. 26321 DATE 9/4/2024 Department No./ Department Health Services Bu,dget Unit No. 0467 Org No. 5912 Agency No. A18 Action Requested: ADOPT Position Adjustment Resolution No. 26321 to Add Ten (10) Mental Health Clinical Specialist Positions to Behavioral Health A3 Program (represented) (100% Measure X) Proposed Effective Date: 9/10/2024 Classification Questionnaire attached: Yes D No f8I / Cost is within Department's budget: Yes f8I No D Total One-Time Costs (non-salary) associated with request: __ Estimated total cost adjustment (salary I �enefits I one time): Total annual cost $1,820,089.00 Net County Cost Total this FY $1,516,740.8 N.C.C. this FY SOURCE OF FUNDING TO OFFSET ADJUSTMENT Measure X Department must initiate necessary adjustment and submit to CAO. Use additional sheet for further explanations or comments. Mary Jane De Jesus-Saepharn REVIEWED BY CAO AND RELEASED TO HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT Sarah Kennard for (for) Department Head 9/4/2024 Deputy County Administrator Date HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT RECOMMENDATIONS Amend Resolution 71/17 establishing positions and resolutions allocating classes to the Basic/ Exempt salary schedule. Effective: 001 Day following Board Action. O __ (Date) DATE (for) Director of Human Resources Date COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR RECOMMENDATION: D Approve Recommendation of Director of Human Resources D Disapprove Recommendation of Director of Human Resources D Other: ------------------- BOARD OF SUPERVISORS ACTION: Adjustment is APPROVEDJ(f DISAPPROVED 0 DATE 09-10-2024 APPROVAL OF THIS ADJUSTMENT CONSTITUTES A PERSONN DATE (for) County Administrator Monica Nino, Clerk of the Board of Supervisors and County Administrator ALARY RESOLUTION AMENDMENT POSITION ADJUSTMENT ACTION TO BE COMPLETED BY HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT FOLLOWING BOARD ACTION Adjust class(es) / position(s) as follows: P300 (M347) Rev 3/15/01 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2791 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/16/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:ADOPT Position Adjustment Resolution No. 26322 to add one OBGYN-Family Medicine, Advanced Obstetric - Exempt position, cancel one vacant Emergency Medicine - Exempt position, and increase and decrease the hours of various positions in the Health Services Department. (100% Hospital Enterprise Fund I) (Represented) Attachments:, , Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Position Adjustment Resolution to add, cancel positions and increase/decrease the hours of various positions in the Health Services Department. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: ADOPT Position Adjustment Resolution No. 26322 to: Increase hours of one (1) Nurse Practitioner (VWSB) position #16576 at salary plan and grade L35 1873 ($14,343.67 - $17,913.27) and its incumbent from 32/40 to 36/40; Increase the hours of one (1) Nurse Practitioner (VWSB) position #8750 (vacant) at salary plan and grade L35 1873 ($14,343.67 - $17,913.27) from 27/40 to 40/40; Decrease hours of one (1) Nurse Practitioner (VWSB) position #15469 at salary plan and grade L35 1873 ($14,343.67 - $17,913.27) and its incumbent from 28/40 to 24/40; Decrease hours of one (1) Primary Care Provider-Ex position (VPT5) position #18348 at salary plan and grade 1PX 1000 ($19,950.77 - $22,752.80) and its incumbent from 32/40 to 24/40; Add one (1) OBGYN-Family Medicine, Advanced Obstetric - Exempt (VPS6) at salary plan and grade 1PX 1006 ($18,479.31 - $20,999.21); and Cancel one (1) Emergency Medicine - Exempt (VPS3) position #7302 (vacant) at salary plan and grade 1PX 1003 ($23,712.77 - $26,946.33) in the Health Services Department. (Represented) FISCAL IMPACT: Upon approval, this request will result in an annual increase of approximately $139,112.27 with pension costs CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2791,Version:1 of $ $20,322.86 already included. (100% Hospital Enterprise Fund I). BACKGROUND: Per California Nurses Association (CNA) MOU, section 6.5 - Position Hours Adjustment, incumbents can submit requests during the months of January and/or July to have their position hours adjusted. Management reviews and evaluates these requests by considering the actual work hours of the employee over the past six (6) months and the anticipated needs of the department moving forward. After reviewing this request, the department agrees with adjusting the hours of positions #16576, 8750, 15469, as these changes will have no negative impact to operations. Adding the position of OBGYN-Family Medicine, Advanced Obstetric - Exempt is necessary to fill staff shortages and will be offset by cancelling one (1) Emergency Medicine - Exempt position. Incumbents in the classification of Primary Care Provider-Exempt can request that their position hours be increased or decreased, as outlined in the Physician’s & Dentists’ Organization of Contra Costa (PDOCC) MOU. As such, the incumbent of position #18348 has requested to decrease their hours from 32/40 to 24/40. The Medical Staffing Office has determined that this change will not have a negative impact to operations. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If not approved, the County will not be complying with the negotiated MOU terms previously agreed upon with the union or have proper staffing structure to provide adequate services. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ POSITION ADJUSTMENT REQUEST C.59 NO. 26315 DATE 8/9/2024 Department No./ Department Health Services Budget Unit No. 0450 Org No. 5754 Agency No. A 18 Action Requested: Add two (2) Community Health Worker Specialist (VKTA), cancel one (1) vacant Public Health Nurse (WXA) position 20007 in the Health Services Department. (Represented) Proposed Effective Date: 9/11/2024 Classification Questionnaire attached: Yes D No� / Cost is within Department's budget: Yes� No D Total One-Time Costs (non-salary) associated with request: $0.00 Estimated total cost adjustment (salary I benefits I one time): Total annual cost ($69,614.31) Total this FY ($58,011.93) Net County Cost $0.00 N.C.C. this FY $0.00 SOURCE OF FUNDING TO OFFSET ADJUSTMENT 100% CalAIM revenue for Enhanced Care Management Program Department must initiate necessary adjustment and submit to CAO. Use additional sheet for further explanations or comments. Mark Ulicki (for) Department Head REVIEWED BY CAO AND RELEAS!=D TO HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT Sarah Kennard for 8/23/2024 Deputy County Administrator Date HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT RECOMMENDATIONS Exempt from Human Resources review under delegated authority. Amend Resolution 71/17 establishing positions and resolutions allocating classes to the Basic/ Exempt salary schedule. Effective: � Day following Board Action. □--· (Date) (for) Director of Human Resources COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR RECOMMENDATION: D Approve Recommend.ation of Director of Human Resources D Disapprove Recommendation of Director of Human Resources D Other: ------------------- DATE DATE Date (for) County Administrator BOARD OF SUPERVISORS ACTION: Monica Nino, Clerk of the Board of Supervisors Adjustment is APPROVED. [JIS, .I Li e1 'ESE? D and County Administrator DATE 09-10-2024 svA� �� APPROVAL OF THIS ADJUSTMENT CONSTITUTES A PERSONNEL� R�SOLUTION AMENDMENT PO SITION ADJUSTMENT ACTION TO BE COMPLETED BY HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT FOLLOWING BOARD ACTION Adjust class(es) / position(s) as follows: P300 (M347) Rev 3/15/01 ATTACHMENT A – P300-26322 ADOPT Position Adjustment Resolution to add, cancel, increase, and decrease the hours of positions in various classifications in the Health Services Department as follows:  Increase the hours of one (1) Nurse Practitioner (VWSB) position #16576 and its incumbent EE#85101 from 32/40 to 36/40 (org #6388)  Increase the hours of one (1) Nurse Practitioner (VWSB) position #8750 (vacant) from 27/40 to 40/40 (org #6386)  Add one (1) OBGYN-Family Medicine, Advanced Obstetric – Exempt (VPS6) and cancel one (1) Emergency Medicine – Exempt (VPS3) position #7302 (vacant) (org #6301)  Decrease hours of one (1) Nurse Practitioner (VWSB) position #15469 and its incumbent EE#79416 from 28/40 to 24/40 (org #6380)  Decrease hours of one (1) Primary Care Provider-Ex position (VPT5) position #18348 and its incumbent EE#94363 from 32/40 to 24/40 (org# 6388) 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2792 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/9/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:ADOPT Position Adjustment Resolution No. 26315 to add two Community Health Worker Specialist positions and cancel one vacant Public Health Nurse position in the Health Services Department. (Cost Savings- CalAIM Enhanced Care Management funds)(Represented) Attachments:, Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Position Adjustment Resolution No. 26315 to Add Two Community Health Worker Specialist positions, Cancel One vacant Public Health Nurse position in the Health Services Department. (Represented) ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: ADOPT Position Adjustment Resolution No. 26315 to: ·Add two (2) Community Health Worker Specialist (VKTA) positions at salary plan and grade TC5-1103 ($5,248 - $6,379) ·Cancel one (1) vacant Public Health Nurse (VVXA) position # 20007 at salary plan and grade LT2- 1832 ($13,108 - $16,370) in the Health Services Department. FISCAL IMPACT: Upon approval, this request will result in an annual cost savings of approximately $69,614 with pension costs of $10,170 already included. (100% Funded CalAIM revenue for Enhanced Care Management Program). BACKGROUND: Enhanced Care Management (ECM) is a statewide Medi-Cal benefit that is a key part in the State’s CalAIM initiatives. ECM sets out to address clinical and non-clinical needs of the highest-need participants through intensive coordination of health and related services. Participants have a single Lead Care Manager that coordinates care and services across the physical, behavioral, dental, developmental, and social services delivery systems, making it easier for them to get the right care at the right time. Each case manager can hold up to 50 cases. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2792,Version:1 In March 2021, the Enhanced Care Management (ECM) program was launched in the Divisions of Public Health, Behavioral Health, and Contra Costa Health Plan (CCHP) of Contra Costa Health Services (CCHS). Since the launch of ECM, Health Services has better able to identify the specific staffing needs of the program and CalAIM. Since the launch of ECM in Contra Costa Health Services, the intensity of the ECM program has increased, requiring more case management staffing to fully provide enhanced case management services. Community Health Worker Specialist case managers offer the most appropriate support for members who have limited, or stable medical conditions and need support with social needs such as social service program navigation, scheduling Primary Care Physician (PCP) visits, and scheduling transportation. The department has identified that the organizational staffing structure initially created for EMC services, does not meet the current case management support needs for individuals with stable or limited medical conditions or those in need of support with coordination of care. As a result, the department has reassessed its staffing needs for ECM and requests to eliminate 1 vacant Public Health Nurse position #20007 and replace it with 2 Community Health Worker Specialists. The Community Health Worker Specialist positions are a key role in the Public Health multi-disciplinary approach to Enhanced Care Management. This will increase case management support services to program beneficiaries who have limited or stable medical conditions. By cancelling the position and adding two Community Health Worker Specialist, the program can provide increased caseload support for ECM participants. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If the positions are not approved,the county would be at risk of not being able to sufficiently staff the Enhanced Care Management Program (ECM).This would offer less support services to ECM participants as each additional case manager can hold up to 50 cases.It would also threaten to maintain current funding levels and opportunities to receive increased funding in the future,as the program would be unable to fully utilize the currently funded amount. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ POSITION ADJUSTMENT REQUEST C.59 NO. 26315 DATE 8/9/2024 Department No./ Department Health Services Budget Unit No. 0450 Org No. 5754 Agency No. A 18 Action Requested: Add two (2) Community Health Worker Specialist (VKTA), cancel one (1) vacant Public Health Nurse (WXA) position 20007 in the Health Services Department. (Represented) Proposed Effective Date: 9/11/2024 Classification Questionnaire attached: Yes D No� / Cost is within Department's budget: Yes� No D Total One-Time Costs (non-salary) associated with request: $0.00 Estimated total cost adjustment (salary I benefits I one time): Total annual cost ($69,614.31) Total this FY ($58,011.93) Net County Cost $0.00 N.C.C. this FY $0.00 SOURCE OF FUNDING TO OFFSET ADJUSTMENT 100% CalAIM revenue for Enhanced Care Management Program Department must initiate necessary adjustment and submit to CAO. Use additional sheet for further explanations or comments. Mark Ulicki (for) Department Head REVIEWED BY CAO AND RELEAS!=D TO HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT Sarah Kennard for 8/23/2024 Deputy County Administrator Date HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT RECOMMENDATIONS Exempt from Human Resources review under delegated authority. Amend Resolution 71/17 establishing positions and resolutions allocating classes to the Basic/ Exempt salary schedule. Effective: � Day following Board Action. □--· (Date) (for) Director of Human Resources COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR RECOMMENDATION: D Approve Recommend.ation of Director of Human Resources D Disapprove Recommendation of Director of Human Resources D Other: ------------------- DATE DATE Date (for) County Administrator BOARD OF SUPERVISORS ACTION: Monica Nino, Clerk of the Board of Supervisors Adjustment is APPROVED. [JIS, .I Li e1 'ESE? D and County Administrator DATE 09-10-2024 svA� �� APPROVAL OF THIS ADJUSTMENT CONSTITUTES A PERSONNEL� R�SOLUTION AMENDMENT PO SITION ADJUSTMENT ACTION TO BE COMPLETED BY HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT FOLLOWING BOARD ACTION Adjust class(es) / position(s) as follows: P300 (M347) Rev 3/15/01 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2793 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/21/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:ADOPT Position Adjustment Resolution No. 26323 to add one Buyer I position and cancel one vacant Account Clerk – Advanced Level position in the Health Services Department. (100% Future of Public Health funds)(Represented) Attachments:, Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Position Adjustment Resolution No. 26323 to add one Buyer I position and cancel one Account Clerk - Advanced Level position in the Health Services Department. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: ADOPT Position Adjustment Resolution No. 26323 to add one (1) Buyer I (STWA) position at salary plan and grade ZB5-1245 ($5,381 - $6,541), cancel one (1) vacant Account Clerk - Advanced Level (JDTD) position # 7112 at salary plan and grade 3RX-1133 ($4,804 - $6,135) in the Health Services Department. FISCAL IMPACT: Upon approval, this request will result in an annual cost increase of approximately $7,827 with pension costs of $1,143 already included. (100% California Department of Public Health, Future of Public Health (FoPH) funds) BACKGROUND: The Public Health Administration has been centralizing their administrative functions from multiple business units into one centralized group, allowing them to provide more efficient and effect responses. As this work has become more centralized the workload has continued to increase as the functions have been consolidated. This centralizing of administrative functions has been supported by the Future of Public Health Funds. The Future of Public Health Funds is an annual allocation from the State of California to support and enhance the Public Health Infrastructure including promoting consistent readiness for major emergencies. Currently the Public Health Administration is mainly comprised of Account Clerks. The unit has one account clerk supporting invoicing/accounts payable and another account clerk supporting purchases and travel reservations. The unit needs a more advanced role to facilitate purchase orders and contracts, which are currently being supported by the Health Administrator Level C. With the amount of time needed to support over 20 programs in Public Health with these types of fiscal requests, the Health Administrator Level C has been CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2793,Version:1 unable to support higher level procedure development/training for workflows related to purchasing. The department has identified that by canceling one Account Clerk - Advanced Level (Pos #7112) and adding one Buyer I, they can better establish a full procurement/accounts payable unit within Public Health, which requires various roles to accomplish necessary tasks. The Buyer I role can support a more in-depth scope of duties while working with vendors and programs on purchase order and contract creation. As the unit is currently primarily comprised of Account Clerks, the required work such as drafting board orders, completing sole sources, assisting with service plans, entering contract requests has been supported by the Health Services Administrator Level C due to the scope of the work. Having the Buyer I position in the unit would mirror other County Purchasing units, such as Health Services Information Technology and Public Works that utilize Buyer roles to assist with Business process outsourcing, contract negotiations and processing. By cancelling one Account Clerk Advanced position and adding one Buyer I position, the Public Health Administration personnel will be able to better support each program in a more centralized capacity. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If the positions are not approved, the county would be at risk of not being able to sufficiently staff the Public Health Administration. This would offer less support services to Public Health Administration as the Health Service Administrator Level C would be having to perform procurement/accounts payable functions instead of supporting higher level procedure development/training for workflows related to purchasing. It would also threaten to maintain current funding levels and opportunities to receive increased funding in the future, as the program would be unable to fully utilize the currently funded amount. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ POSITION ADJUSTMENT REQUEST C.60 NO. 26323 DATE 8/21/2024 Department No./ Department Health Services Budget Unit No. 0450 Org No. 5898 Agency No. A 18 Action Requested: Add one (1) Buyer I (STWA), cancel one (1) vacant Account Clerk Advanced Level (JOTO) position 7112 in the Health Services Department. (Represented) Proposed Effective Date: 9/11/2024 Classification Questionnaire attached: Yes D No � / Cost is within Department's budget: Yes � No D Total One-Time Costs (non-salary) associated with request: $0.00 Estimated total cost adjustment (salary I benefits I one time): Total annual cost $7,826.61 Total this FY $6,522.18 Net County Cost $0.00 N.C.C. this FY $0.00 SOURCE OF FUNDING TO OFFSET ADJUSTMENT 100% Future of Public Health Funds Department must initiate necessary adjustment and submit to CAO. Use additional sheet for further explanations or comments. Mark Ulicki (for) Department Head REVIEWED BY CAO AND RELEASED TO HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT Sarah Kennard for Deputy County Administrator HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT RECOMMENDATIONS Exempt from Human Resources review under delegated authority. Amend Resolution 71/17 establishing positions and resolutions allocating classes to the Basic/ Exempt salary schedule. Effective: � Day following Board Action. ·o __ (Date) (for) Director of Human Resources COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR RECOMMENDATION: D Approve Recommendation of Director of Human Resources D Disapprove Recommendation of Director of Human Resources D Other: ------------------ DATE 9/4/2024 Date DATE Date (for) County Administrator BOARD OF SUPERVISORS ACTION: Adjustment is APPROVED □ oi55J!fllP'�e·tc� DA TE 09-10-2024 Monica Nino, Clerk of the Board of Supervisors and County Administrator ·�� APPROVAL OF THIS ADJUSTMENT CONSTITUTES A PERSONNE L ALARY RESOLUTION AMENDMENT POSITION ADJUSTMENT ACTION TO BE COMPLETED BY HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT FOLLOWING BOARD ACTION Adjust class(es) / position(s) as follows: P300 (M347) Rev 3/15/01 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2794 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/21/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:ADOPT Position Adjustment Resolution No. 26325 to add 28 positions to the Behavioral Health Youth Crisis Stabilization Unit in the Health Services Department. (Cost Offset- 100% Mental Health Realignment)(Represented) Attachments:, , Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Add Twenty-Eight (28) Positions to Behavioral Health’s Youth Crisis Stabilization Unit in Health Services Department (Represented) ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: ADOPT Position Adjustment Resolution No. 26325 to add the following Twenty-Eight (28) Positions to Behavioral Health’s Youth Crisis Stabilization Unit within the Health Services Department: 1.Five (5) Registered Nurses (VWXG) 2.Two (2) Psychiatric Technicians (VQWB) 3.Three (3) Licensed Vocational Nurses (VT7G) 4.Five (5) Mental Health Clinical Specialists (VQSB) 5.Five (5) Mental Health Specialists II (VQVA) 6.Five (5) Mental Health Community Support Workers II (VQVB) 7.Three (3) Clerks-Senior Level (JWXC) FISCAL IMPACT: Upon approval, this action will result in annual cost savings of approximately $1,886,411. Previously, these services were provided through contract #74-671 with an annual cost of $6,582,084 which has been since terminated. By hiring permanent employees, the department will have an annual cost of $4,695,672 with pension costs of $685,899 already included. These positions will be funded by Mental Health Realignment. BACKGROUND: Behavioral Health is looking to permanently fill critical positions at the new Youth Crisis Stabilization Unit located in Martinez. Services were originally provided through contract #74-671 which has since been terminated. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2794,Version:1 The Youth Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU) is a dedicated treatment space for children and youth ages 6-17 who are suffering a psychiatric emergency. This multi-disciplinary team is needed to provide full coverage to staff a 24/7 facility as required by State Department of Health Care regulations. Services include behavioral health assessments, alcohol and drug screening, crisis intervention and stabilization, service referrals to community- based agencies, assistance with medications and health care needs, supportive counseling with families and caregivers, and assessment for need of more intensive levels of care. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Contra Costa Health would not be able to provide critical services to youth suffering psychiatric emergencies and would not be in compliance with State Department of Health Care regulations. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ POSITION ADJUSTMENT REQUEST C.61 NO. 26325 DATE 9/4/2024 Department No./ Department Health Services Budget Unit No. 04 67 Org No. 5941 Agency No. 18 Action Requested: ADOPT Position Adjustment Resolution No. 26325 to add twenty-eight (28) positions to Behavioral Health's Youth Crisis Stabilization Unit within the Health Services Department. (see Attachment A)· Proposed Effective Date: 9/1 1/2024 Classification Questionnaire attached: Yes □· No� / Cost is within Department's budget: Yes 1:81 No 0 Total One-Time Costs (non-salary) associated with request: __ Estimated total cost adjustment (salary/ benefits/ one time): Total annual cost $4,69 5,673.00 Net County Cost Total this FY N.C.C. this FY SOURCE OF FUNDING TO OFFSET ADJUSTMENT See attachment A Department must initiate necessary adjustment and submit to CAO. Use additional sheet for further explanations or comments. (for) Department Head REVIEWED BY CAO AND RELEASED TO HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT Sarah Kennard for Deputy County Administrator HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT RECOMMENDATIONS Exempt from HR review under delegated authority Amend Resolution 71/17 establishing positions and resolutions allocating classes to the Basic/ Exempt salary schedule. Effective: � Day following Board Action. O __ (Date) (for) Director of Human Resources COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR RECOMMENDATION: DATE D Approve Recommendation of Director of Human Resources D Disapprove Recommendation of Director of Human Resources D Other: ________________ _ 9/4/2024 Date DATE Date (for) County Administrator BOARD OF SUPERVISORS ACTION: Adjustment is APPROVED □ �ISAPPROVEB g DA TE 09 -1 0-224 Monica Nino, Clerk of the Board of Supervisors and County Administrator APPROVAL OF THIS ADJUSTMENT CONSTITUTES A PERSONNEL/ LARY RESOLUTION AMENDMENT POSITION ADJUSTMENT ACTION TO BE COMPLETED BY HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT FOLLOWING BOARD ACTION Adjust class(es) / position(s) as follows: P300 (M34 7) Rev 3/15/01 Attachment A-P300-26325 ADOPT Position Adjustment Resolution to add the following 28 permanent full-time positions to Behavioral Health’s Youth Crisis Stabilization Unit in Health Services Department: 1. Five (5) Registered Nurses (VWXG) 2. Two (2) Psychiatric Technicians (VQWB) 3. Three (3) Licensed Vocational Nurses (VT7G) 4. Five (5) Mental Health Clinical Specialists (VQSB) 5. Five (5) Mental Health Specialists II (VQVA) 6. Five (5) Mental Health Community Support Workers II (VQVB) 7. Three (3) Clerks-Senior Level (JWXC) 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2795 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/16/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:ADOPT Position Adjustment Resolution No. 26316 to reactivate one Public Health Mobile Clinic Operator position with an effective date of July 1, 2023 in the Health Services Department. (100% Hospital Enterprise Fund I)(Represented). Attachments:, Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Add one Public Health Mobile Clinic Operator position# 16707 ☐Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: ADOPT Position Adjustment Resolution No. 26316 to reinstate Public Health Mobile Clinic Operator position # 16707 with an effective date of July 1, 2023 in the Health Services Department. FISCAL IMPACT: This action will be funded by Hospital Enterprise Fund I. BACKGROUND: During the budget development process for Fiscal Year 2023-24, the Department identified position number 16707 as vacant and cancelled it in order to align with the authorized position count. Following the cancellation of this position, an adaministrative process took place which restored the employee who previously held this position with an effective return date during Fiscal Year 2023-24. To properly align the employee with the previously held classification and position, and ensure that the employee does not experience any disruption to pay and benefits, the Department is requesting reinstatement of this position number with a retroactive effective date of July 1, 2023. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If not approved, the Department will not have the necessary vacant position for the correct period. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2795,Version:1 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ POSITION ADJUSTMENT REQUEST C.62 NO. 26316 DATE 8/23/2024 Department No./ Department Health Services Budget Unit No. 0540 Org No. 6418 Agency No. A 18 Action Requested: Reinstate one Public Health Mobile Clinic Operator position #16707 in the Health Services Department with an effective date of 7/1/2023. (Represented) Proposed Effective Date: 8/14/2024 Classification Questionnaire attached: Yes D No� / Cost is within Department's budget: Yes� No 181 Total One-Time Costs (non-salary) associated with request: __ Estimated total cost adjustment (salary / benefits / one time): Total annual cost· ($115,632.00) Net County Cost $,0.00 Total this FY ($115,632} N.C.C. this FY $0.00 SOURCE OF FUNDING TO OFFSET ADJUSTMENT Hospital Enterprise Fund I Department must initiate necessary adjustment and submit to CAO. Use additional sheet for further explanations or comments. Mary Jane De Jesus-Saepham REVIEWED BY CAO AND RELEASED TO HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT Sarah Kennard for (for) Department Head 8/23/2024 Deputy County Administrator Date HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT RECOMMENDATIONS Exempt from Human Resources review under delegated authority Amend Resolution 71/17 establishing positions and resolutions allocating classes to the Basic/ Exempt salary schedule. Effective: D Day following Board Action. � 7/1/2023(Date) DATE (for) Director of Human Resources Date COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR RECOMMENDATION: D Approve Recommendation of Director of Human Resources D Disapprove Recommendation of Director of Human Resources D Other: _________________ _ BOARD OF SUPERVISORS ACTION: Adjustment is APPROVED O OIC: ii •Pi t e&□ DATE 09-10-2024 DATE (for) County Administrator Monica Nino, Clerk of the Board of Supervisors and County Administrator APPROVAL OF THIS ADJUSTMENT CONSTITUTES A PERSONNE / J\LARY RESOLUTION AMENDMENT POSITION ADJUSTMENT ACTION TO BE COMPLETED BY HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT FOLLOWING BOARD ACTION Adjust class(es) / position(s) as follows: P300 (M347) Rev 3/15/01 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2796 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/16/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:ADOPT Position Adjustment Resolution No. 26324 to increase the hours of one (1) Registered Nurse position and Its Incumbent in the Health Services Department. (Cost Increase- 100% Hospital Enterprise Fund I) Attachments:, Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Increase the hours of One Registered Nurse position and its incumbent in the Health Services Department ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: ADOPT Position Adjustment Resolution No. 26324 to increase the hours of one (1) Registered Nurse (VWXG) position #7561 at salary plan and grade L32 1880 ($12,483.69 - $15,590.42) and its incumbent from 30/40 to 40/40 in Maternity/Delivery division of the Health Services Department. FISCAL IMPACT: Upon approval, this request will result in an annual increase of approximately $75,114.66 with pension costs of $10,973.47 already included. (100% Hospital Enterprise Fund I). BACKGROUND: Per CNA MOU, section 6.5- Position Hours Adjustment, incumbents can submit requests during the months of January and/or July to have their position hours adjusted. Management reviews and evaluates these requests by considering the actual work hours of the employee over the past six (6) months and the anticipated needs of the department. The incumbent of Registered Nurse position #7561 has requested to increase their hours from 30/40 to 40/40. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If not approved, the County will not be complying with the negotiated MOU terms previously agreed upon with the unions. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2796,Version:1 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ POSITION ADJUSTMENT REQUEST C.63 NO. 26324 DATE 8/13/2024 Department No./ Department Health Services Budget Unit No. 0540 Org No. 6340 Agency No. A 18 Action Requested: Increase the hours of one (1) Registered Nurse (VWXG) position #7561 and its incumbent (EE#90040) from 30/40 to 40/40 in Maternity/Delivery. Proposed Effective Date: 9/11/2024 Classification Questionnaire attached: Yes D No 1:81 / Cost is within Department's budget: Yes 1:81 No 1:81 Total One-Time Costs (non-salary) associated with request: __ Estimated total cost adjustment (salary I benefits I one time): Total annual cost $75. 114.66 Net County Cost $0.00 Total this FY $62,595.52 N.C.C. this FY $0.00 SOURCE OF FUNDING TO OFFSET ADJUSTMENT 100% Hospital Enterprise Fund I Department must initiate necessary adjustment and submit to CAO. Use additional sheet for further explanations or comments. Carol Berger (for) Department Head REVIEWED BY CAO AND RELEASED TO HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT Sarah Kennard for Deputy County Administrator HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT RECOMMENDATIONS Exempt from Human Resources review under delegated authority Amend Resolution 71/1'2 establishing positions and resolutions allocating classes to the Basic/ Exempt salary schedule. Effective: IZ! Day following Board Action. O __ (Date) (for) Director of Human Resources COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR RECOMMENDATION: D Approve Recommendation of Director of Human Resources D Disapprove Recommendation of Director of Human Resources D Other: ------------------- DATE 9/4/2024 Date DATE Date (for) County Administrator BOARD OF SUPERVISORS ACTION: Adjustment is APPROVEDt.K} Of.5A1'��0¥1iQ.[J DATE 09-10-2024 APPROVAL OF THIS ADJUSTMENT CONSTITUTES A PERSONNEL.: Monica Nino, Clerk of the Board of Supervisors and County Administrator ALARY RESOLUTION AMENDMENT POSITION ADJUSTMENT ACTION TO BE COMPLETED BY HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT FOLLOWING BOARD ACTION Adjust class(es) I position(s) as follows: P300 (M347) Rev 3/1.5/01 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2797 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/20/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE the new medical staff, allied health, and tele-radiologist appointments and reappointments, additional privileges, medical staff advancement, and resignations as recommended by the Medical Staff Executive Committee, and by the Health Services Director. (No fiscal impact) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Medical Staff Appointments and Reappointments - August 7, 2024 ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE the new medical staff, allied health, and tele-radiologist appointments and reappointments, additional privileges, medical staff advancement, and resignations as recommended by the Medical Staff Executive Committee, at their August 19, 2024 meeting, and by the Health Services Director. FISCAL IMPACT: There is no fiscal impact for this action. BACKGROUND: The Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations has requested that evidence of Board of Supervisors approval for each Medical Staff member be placed in his or her Credentials File. The above recommendations for appointment/reappointment were reviewed by the Credentials Committee and recommended by the Medical Executive Committee. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this action is not approved, the Contra Costa Regional Medical and Contra Costa Health Centers' medical staff would not be appropriately credentialed and not be in compliance with The Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 1 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2798 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/16/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE Budget Amendment No. BDA-24-00498 authorizing the transfer of appropriations in the amount of $110,752 from Health Services – Behavioral Health Administration (0467) to Public Works – ISF Fleet Services (0064) for the purchase of three vehicles for client transportation and support for CARE Act services. (100% Mental Health Realignment) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Purchase Three Vehicles for CARE Act services ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE Budget Amendment No. BDA-24-00498 authorizing the transfer of appropriations in the amount of $110,752 from Health Services - Behavioral Health Admin (0467) to Public Works - ISF Fleet Services (0064) for the purchase of three (3) vehicles for client transportation and support for CARE Act services. FISCAL IMPACT: This action increases appropriations in Public Works - ISF Fleet Services (0064) and reduces appropriations in Health Services - Behavioral Health Admin (0467) by $110,752. The purchase of these vehicles will be funded by Mental Health Realignment. BACKGROUND: Contra Costa County is mandated by the state to implement the CARE Act by December 1, 2024. A vital aspect of this program will be outreach to individuals countywide that the court orders Behavioral Health (BH) to evaluate for the program. It is anticipated that many individuals will be unhoused and therefore more difficult to locate. Once ordered by the court to evaluate, the team has limited time (9-14 days) to complete an evaluation report for the court. The team will start outreach on day one of the referral being received and will need to follow-up daily until the individual is located. Once located, the team will need frequent contacts to initiate a trusting relationship for the person to feel safe to talk with and engage with the team. If someone is enrolled in services with a CARE plan/agreement, the team will continue to provide services in the community to individuals who have a history of not engaging with services in the clinics and are at a higher risk for hospitalizations. Community services will continue until no longer needed. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2798,Version:1 If vehicles are not available, the team’s ability to locate individuals and report back to the court and provide services timely will be greatly compromised. If BH does not meet the requirements there is potential for the county to be fined and if numerous fines are imposed there is the potential for a Special Master to be assigned by the State. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2799 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/16/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE Budget Amendment No. BDA-24-00497 authorizing the transfer of appropriations in the amount of $110,752 from Health Services – Behavioral Health Administration (0467) to Public Works – ISF Fleet Services (0064) for the purchase of three vehicles for client transportation and support in the California Advancing and Innovating Medi-Cal Justice Involved Initiative. (100% Mental Health Realignment) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Purchase Three Vehicles for CalAIM Justice Involved Initiative ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE Budget Amendment No. BDA-24-00497 authorizing the transfer of appropriations in the amount of $110,752 from Health Services - Behavioral Health Admin (0467) to Public Works - ISF Fleet Services (0064) for the purchase of three (3) vehicles for transportation of California Advancing and Innovating Medi-Cal (CalAIM) Justice Involved Initiative clients. FISCAL IMPACT: This action increases appropriations in Public Works - ISF Fleet Services (0064) and reduces appropriations in Health Services - Behavioral Health Admin (0467) by $110,752. The purchase of these vehicles will be funded by Mental Health Realignment. BACKGROUND: The CalAIM Justice Involved Initiative is a State mandated initiative with the goal to improve Reentry Services for individuals in custody who are preparing to return to the community. The Family Mental Health (FMH) team will be responsible to start engagement in custody and then follow each person when released, starting on the day of release. The initial weeks of someone being back in the community demand intensive services in the community, not just in a clinic, to provide the level of support needed to increase the chance of a successful reentry and decrease the rate of recidivism. The use of vehicles can include picking up someone from custody, supporting and transporting to initial appointments for an array of services, helping individuals engage in community support (ex. Alcoholics Anonymous/Narcotics Anonymous meetings), coordinating with Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) programs as needed, meeting with the persons’ family/support team, and helping someone learn basic daily living skills, for ex. taking someone shopping to learn money management and planning ahead for a shopping trip. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2799,Version:1 CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this action is not approved, the team will be greatly limited in its ability to provide services in the community. Community support is essential for successful reentry; without it, the rate of recidivism can be higher and the rate of hospitalizations and/or incarceration can be higher. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2800 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:7/25/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract amendment with Vizient, Inc., to increase the payment limit by $35,000 to an amount not to exceed $1,004,040 for the administration of an integrated organizational culture and engagement survey and consulting services for Contra Costa Regional Medical Center with no change in the term ending September 30, 2027. (100% Hospital Enterprise Fund I) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract Amendment #76-789-4 with Vizient, Inc. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director,or designee,to execute on behalf of the County a Statement of Work (SOW)with Vizient,Inc.,a corporation,effective August 1,2024,and increase the payment limit of Contract #76-789 by $35,000,from $969,040 to a new payment limit of $1,004,040 for administration of an organizational culture and engagement survey and consulting services with no change in the contract’s term of October 1, 2022 through September 30, 2027. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this SOW will result in additional annual expenditures of up to $35,000 and will be funded 50%by savings realized through the Vizient group purchasing agreement and 50% Hospital Enterprise Fund I revenues. BACKGROUND: Vizient,Inc.provides expertise,analytics,and advisory services through solutions and services that improve the delivery of high-value care by aligning cost,quality,and performance.This Vizient Safety,Culture,Operational Reliability,Resilience/Burnout and Engagement (SCORE)SOW meets the county's needs by providing Contra Costa Regional Medical Center (CCRMC) survey administrator and consulting services. The execution of this SOW will allow CCRMC access to Vizient’s SCORE platform.Vizient will administer the SCORE survey and provide consulting support for the survey.This survey will help CCRMC formulate a strategic plan geared towards cultural and operational improvement.Contract deliverables include,setup, mapping,administration,analytics reporting and leadership briefing.Per the terms of the SOW,the initial term will commence on the effective date and continue for twelve (12)months.CCRMC’s Quality Management, Utilization Management,and Contract Monitor Staff meet regularly to ensure monitoring and performanceCONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 3 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2800,Version:1 Utilization Management,and Contract Monitor Staff meet regularly to ensure monitoring and performance measures in the contract are upheld.This contract was approved by Health Services Personnel to ensure there is no conflict with labor relations. On December 13,2022,the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #76-789 with Vizient,Inc.,authorizing the execution of the Master Services Agreement (MSA),for the provision of group purchasing program services, for CCRMC for the period from October 1, 2022, through September 30, 2025. On October 17,2023,the Board of Supervisors approved Contract Amendment #76-789-1 with Vizient,Inc.,in an amount not to exceed $435,000,for the execution of a Supply Chain Consultant SOW (under the MSA)for the period November 1, 2023, through December 31, 2026. On April 22,2024,the Board of Supervisors approved Contract Amendment #76-789-2 with Vizient,Inc.,to execute a Patient Safety Organization (PSO)SOW (under the MSA),increase the payment limit by $64,040 to a new payment limit of $499,040 and extend the termination date from December 31,2026 to September 30, 2027 for additional advisory services for Contra Costa Health. On June 4,2024,the Board of Supervisors approved Contract Amendment #76-789-3 with Vizient,Inc.,to execute a Member Network Services SOW (under the MSA)and increase the payment limit by $375,000 to a new payment limit of $874,040, with no change in the term through September 30, 2027. On July 23,2024,the Board of Supervisors approved Contract Amendment #76-789-6 with Vizient Inc.,to execute a Supplier Diversity Platform Subscription SOW (under the MSA)and increase the payment limit by $95,000 to a new payment limit of $969,040, with no change in the term through September 30, 2027. Under this Contract Amendment #76-789-4,the parties will execute the SCORE SOW (under the MSA).The term of this SOW is from the effective date (August 1,2024)and will continue for a period of twelve (12) months.The division is requesting a retroactive effective date for this amendment due to a delay caused in negotiations between the parties.Approval of this Contract Amendment #76-789-4 allows the Contractor to provide SCORE SOW services for a period of twelve (12) months, through July 31, 2025. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved,CCRMC will not have access to Vizient’s services regarding the administration of an integrated organizational culture and engagement survey that measures organizational safety,operational risk,reliability,burnout,and employee/physician engagement losing the benefit of access to quality improvement and other leadership educational resources provided under the SOW and therefore,out of compliance with Joint Commission requirements. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 3 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2800,Version:1 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 3 of 3 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2801 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/8/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Jee Hyun Guss, M.D., in an amount not to exceed $290,000 to provide outpatient psychiatric services for patients in Central Contra Costa County for the period September 1, 2024 through August 31, 2025. (100% Mental Health Realignment) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #74-365-17 with Jee Hyun Guss, M.D. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute on behalf of the County Contract #74-365-17 with Jee Hyun Guss, M.D., an individual, in an amount not to exceed $290,000, to provide outpatient mental health services for Central Contra Costa County patients for the period September 1, 2024 through August 31, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this contract will result in annual service expenditures of up to $290,000 and will be funded as budgeted by the department in FY 2024-25, 100% by Mental Health Realignment funds. BACKGROUND: This Contract meets the social needs of County’s population by providing psychiatric services for mentally ill adults in Central Contra Costa County. Contactor has been providing psychiatric services for mentally ill adults in Central Contra Costa County, since September 1, 2009. This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities: Welfare and Institutions Code, § 5600 et seq. (The Bronzan McCorquodale Act); California Code of Regulations (“CCR”), Title 9, § 523 et seq. (Community Mental Health Services) and California Government Code §§ 26227 and 31000. The Behavioral Health’s Quality Management, Utilization Management and Contract Monitor Staff meet on a regular basis to ensure monitoring and performance measures in the contract are upheld. This Contract was approved by Health Services Personnel to ensure there is no conflict with labor relations. Per Administrative Bulletin 600.3 the Contractor provides physician services and is exempt from solicitation requirements. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2801,Version:1 On August 8, 2023, the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #74-365-15, with Jee Hyun Guss, M.D., in an amount not to exceed $288,288, to provide outpatient psychiatric services, including diagnosing, counseling, evaluating and providing medical and therapeutic treatment and consulting and training in medical and therapeutic matters to adult patients in Central Contra Costa County, for the period September 1, 2023 through August 31, 2024. Approval of Contract #74-365-17 will allow the contractor to continue providing outpatient psychiatric services to patients in Centra Contra Costa County through August 31, 2025. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved, this Contractor will not be able to provide outpatient mental health services to patients, which may delay services to patients. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2802 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/2/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Peter A. Castillo, M.D., Inc. (dba Women’s Pelvic Health Institute), in an amount not to exceed $330,000 to provide urogynecology services for Contra Costa Health Plan members and County recipients for the period September 1, 2024 through August 31, 2027. (100% Contra Costa Health Plan Enterprise Fund II) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #27-989-4 with Peter A. Castillo, M.D., Inc. (dba Women’s Pelvic Health Institute) ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director,or designee,to execute on behalf of the County Contract #27-989-4 with Peter A.Castillo,M.D.,Inc.(dba Women’s Pelvic Health Institute),a corporation,in an amount not to exceed $330,000,to provide urogynecology services for Contra Costa Health Plan (CCHP) members and County recipients, for the period September 1, 2024 through August 31, 2027. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Contract will result in contractual service expenditures of up to $330,000 over a 3-year period and will be funded 100% by CCHP Enterprise Fund II revenues. BACKGROUND: CCHP has an obligation to provide certain urogynecology services for its members under the terms of their Individual and Group Health Plan membership contracts with the county.This contractor has been a part of the CCHP Provider Network providing these services and fostering a deep understanding of the CCHP organizations mission,values,and long-term objectives since September 1,2015.This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities:California Government Code §§26227 and 31000;Health and Safety Code §1451.Health Services Personnel approved this contract to ensure no conflicts with labor relations.Contractor currently cooperates with and participates in CCHP’s Quality Management Program which consists of quality improvement activities to improve the quality of care and services and member experience.Cooperation includes collection and evaluation of performance measurement data and participation in the organization’s clinical and service measure Quality Improvement Programs.Per Administrative Bulletin 600.3 CCHP Physician services are exempt from solicitation requirements. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2802,Version:1 In October 2021,the County Administrator approved and the Purchasing Services manager executed Contract #27-989-3 with Peter A.Castillo,M.D.,Inc.,(dba Women’s Pelvic Health Institute),in an amount not to exceed $180,000,for the provision of urogynecology services for CCHP members and County recipients,for the period September 1, 2021 through August 31, 2024. Approval of Contract #27-989-4 will allow the Contractor to continue providing urogynecology services for CCHP members and County recipients through August 31, 2027. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved,certain urogynecology services for CCHP members under the terms of their Individual and Group Health Plan membership contracts with the County will not be provided and may cause a delay in services to CCHP members. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2803 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/7/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Douglas Hanlin, M.D., in an amount not to exceed $235,000 to provide outpatient psychiatric care services to mentally ill adults in Central Contra Costa County for the period September 1, 2024 through August 31, 2025. (100% Mental Health Realignment) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #74-465-15 with Douglas Hanlin, M.D. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director,or designee,to execute on behalf of the County Contract #74-465-15 with Douglas Hanlin,M.D.,an individual,in an amount not to exceed $235,000,to provide outpatient psychiatric care services for mentally ill adults in Central Contra Costa County,for the period September 1, 2024 through August 31, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this contract will result in annual expenditures of up to $235,000 and will be funded as budgeted by the department in FY 2024-25, 100% by Mental Health Realignment funds. BACKGROUND: This Contract meets the social needs of County’s population by providing psychiatric services including,but not limited to:diagnosing,counseling,evaluating,medication management and providing medical and psychiatric therapeutic treatment for mentally ill adults in Central Contra Costa County.This contractor has been providing outpatient psychiatric care services since September 1,2013.Health Services Personnel approved this Contract to ensure no conflicts with labor relations.This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities:California Government Code §§26227 and 31000;and Welfare and Institutions Code,§5600 et seq.(The Bronzan -McCorquodale Act).Acting as the Mental Health Plan as designated by Department of Health Care Services (DHCS)Contra Costa Behavioral Health is required to meet federal and state Network Adequacy standards to ensure that all Medi-Cal managed care covered services are available and accessible to beneficiaries in accordance with timely access and time and distance standards. These physician services were determined to be exempt from Administrative Bulletin 600.3 solicitation requirements by the Public Works Department’s Purchasing Division. On July 18,2023,the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #74-465-14 with Douglas Hanlin,M.D.,in an CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2803,Version:1 On July 18,2023,the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #74-465-14 with Douglas Hanlin,M.D.,in an amount not to exceed $230,630,for the provision of outpatient psychiatric care services for mentally ill adults in Central Contra Costa County for the period September 1, 2023 through August 31, 2024. Approval of Contract #74-465-15,will allow the Contractor to continue providing outpatient psychiatric care services to mentally ill adults in Central Contra Costa County through August 31, 2025. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved,County clients will not have access to the Contractor’s psychiatric care services which could result in increased wait time for services. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2804 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/2/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Adam Brooks, M.D., Inc., in an amount not to exceed $225,000 to provide orthopedic surgery services for Contra Costa Health Plan members and County recipients for the period September 1, 2024 through August 31, 2027. (100% Contra Costa Health Plan Enterprise Fund II) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #77-487-1 with Adam Brooks, M.D., Inc. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director,or designee,to execute on behalf of the County Contract #77-487-1 with Adam Brooks,M.D.,Inc.,a corporation,in an amount not to exceed $225,000,to provide orthopedic surgery services for Contra Costa Health Plan (CCHP)members and County recipients,for the period September 1, 2024 through August 31, 2027. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Contract will result in contractual service expenditures of up to $225,000 over a 3-year period and will be funded 100% by CCHP Enterprise Fund II revenues. BACKGROUND: CCHP has an obligation to provide certain orthopedic surgery services for its members under the terms of their Individual and Group Health Plan membership contracts with the county.This contractor has been a part of the CCHP Provider Network providing these services and fostering a deep understanding of the CCHP organizations mission,values,and long-term objectives since September 1,2022.This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities:California Government Code §§26227 and 31000;Health and Safety Code §1451.Health Services Personnel approved this contract to ensure no conflicts with labor relations.Contractor currently cooperates with and participates in CCHP’s Quality Management Program which consists of quality improvement activities to improve the quality of care and services and member experience.Cooperation includes collection and evaluation of performance measurement data and participation in the organization’s clinical and service measure Quality Improvement Programs.Per Administrative Bulletin 600.3 CCHP Physician services are exempt from solicitation requirements. In September 2022,the County Administrator approved,and the Purchasing Services Manager executed CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2804,Version:1 In September 2022,the County Administrator approved,and the Purchasing Services Manager executed Contract #77-487 with Adam Brooks,M.D.,Inc.,in an amount not to exceed $150,000,for the provision of orthopedic surgery services for CCHP members and County recipients,for the period September 1,2022 through August 31, 2024. Approval of Contract #77-487-1 will allow the Contractor to continue to provide orthopedic surgery services for CCHP members and County recipients through August 31, 2027. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved,certain orthopedic surgery services for CCHP members under the terms of their Individual and Group Health Plan membership contracts with the County will not be provided and may cause a delay in services to CCHP members. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2805 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/7/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Modesto Residential Living Center LLC, in an amount not to exceed $531,127 to provide augmented board and care services for mentally ill adults in Contra Costa County for the period September 1, 2024 through August 31, 2025. (69% Mental Health Services Act; 31% Mental Health Realignment) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #24-681-82(21) with Modesto Residential Living Center LLC ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director,or designee,to execute on behalf of the County Contract #24-681-82(21)with Modesto Residential Living Center LLC,a limited liability company,in an amount not to exceed $531,127,to provide augmented board and care services for mentally ill adults in Contra Costa County for the period September 1, 2024 through August 31, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: This Contract will result in annual service expenditures of up to $531,127 and will be funded 69%by Mental Health Services Act and 31% by Mental Health Realignment funds. BACKGROUND: This Contract meets the social needs of the County's population by augmenting room and board and providing twenty-four-hour emergency residential care and supervision to eligible adults with mental illness,who are specifically referred by the County’s Behavioral Health Program Staff.Adult residential services for psychiatric clients requires stringent accreditation and compliance standards,as well as licenses and regulatory approvals that a limited number of providers possess.The Behavioral Health’s Quality Management,Utilization Management and Contract Monitor staff meet on regular basis to ensure monitoring and performance measures in the Contract are upheld.This Contract was approved by Health Services Personnel to ensure there is no conflict with labor relations.This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities: California Government Code §§26227;California Code of Regulations,Title 9,Section 523 et seq.;California Welfare and Institutions Code Section 5600 et.Seq (known as The Bronzan-McCorquodale Act).These contracted services were determined to be exempt from Administrative Bulletin 600.3 solicitation requirements by the Public Works Department’s Purchasing Division. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2805,Version:1 On October 17,2023,the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #24-681-82(20)with Modesto Residential Living Center LLC,in an amount not to exceed $510,684,for the provision of augmented board and care services for the period September 1, 2023 through August 31, 2024. Approval of Contract #24-681-82(21)will allow the Contractor to continue to provide augmented board and care services through August 31, 2025. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved,this Contractor will not be able to provide augmented board and care services for mentally ill older adults in Contra Costa County which could result in increased wait times for services. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2806 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/7/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Premier Surgery Center, L.P., in an amount not to exceed $18,000,000 to provide ambulatory surgery center services for Contra Costa Health Plan members and County recipients for the period September 1, 2024 through August 31, 2027. (100% Contra Costa Health Plan Enterprise Fund II) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #77-251-4 with Premier Surgery Center, L.P. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director,or designee,to execute,on behalf of the County Contract #77-251-4 with Premier Surgery Center,L.P.,a limited partnership,in an amount not to exceed $18,000,000,to provide ambulatory surgery center (ASC)services for Contra Costa Health Plan (CCHP) members and County recipients for the period September 1, 2024 through August 31, 2027. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Contract will result in contractual service expenditures of up to $18,000,000 over a three-year period and will be funded 100% by CCHP Enterprise Fund II revenues. BACKGROUND: CCHP has an obligation to provide certain specialized health care services,including ASC services for its members under the terms of their Individual and Group Health Plan membership contracts with the county.An ASC is defined as an outpatient facility that operates exclusively for supplying outpatient surgical services to patients who do not require overnight hospital stays.This Contractor has been a part of the CCHP Provider Network providing ASC services and fostering a deep understanding of the CCHP organizations mission, values,and long-term objectives since September 2019.This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities:California Government Code §§26227 and 31000;Health and Safety Code §1451. Health Services Personnel approved this Contract to ensure no conflicts with labor relations.Contractor currently cooperates and participates in CCHP’s Quality Management Program which consists of quality improvement activities to improve the quality of care,services and member experience.Cooperation includes collection and evaluation of performance measurement data and participation in the organization’s clinical and service measure Quality Improvement Programs.Per Administrative Bulletin 600.3 CCHP Physician services CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2806,Version:1 are exempt from solicitation requirements. On July 26,2022,the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #77-251-3 with Premier Surgery Center,L.P.,in the amount of $6,000,000,for the provision of ASC services for CCHP members and County recipients for the period September 1, 2022 through August 31, 2024. Approval of Contract #77-251-4 will allow the contractor to continue to provide ASC services for CCHP members and County recipients through August 31, 2027. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved,certain ASC specialty health care services for CCHP members under the terms of their Individual and Group Health Plan membership contracts with the County will not be provided and may cause a delay in services to CCHP members. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2807 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/8/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract amendment with Northern California Cornea Associates, Inc., for additional ophthalmology services including cornea cross-linking for Contra Costa Health Plan members and County recipients with no change in the payment limit or term ending March 31, 2027. (100% Contra Costa Health Plan Enterprise Fund II) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Amendment Agreement #27-779-9 with Northern California Cornea Associates, Inc. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director,or designee,to execute on behalf of the County Contract Amendment Agreement #27-779-9 with Northern California Cornea Associates,Inc.,a corporation, effective September 1,2024,to amend Contract #27-779-8,for additional ophthalmology services including cornea cross-linking for Contra Costa Health Plan (CCHP)members and County recipients,with no change in the original payment limit of $900,000,and no change in the original term of April 1,2024 through March 31, 2027. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Amendment will not result in additional contractual service expenditures and will continue to be funded as budgeted 100% by CCHP Enterprise Fund II revenues. BACKGROUND: CCHP has an obligation to provide certain medical specialist services for its members under the terms of their Individual and Group Health Plan membership contracts with the County.This Contractor has been a part of the CCHP Provider Network providing ophthalmology services and fostering a deep understanding of the CCHP organizations mission,values,and long-term objectives since April 1,2009.This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities:California Government Code §§26227 and 31000;Health and Safety Code §1451.Health Services Personnel approved this Contract to ensure no conflicts with labor relations.Contractor currently cooperates with and participates in CCHP’s Quality Management Program which consists of quality improvement activities to improve the quality of care and services and member experience.Cooperation includes collection and evaluation of performance measurement data and participation CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2807,Version:1 in the organization’s clinical and service measure Quality Improvement Programs. On February 27,2024,the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #27-779-8 with Northern California Cornea Associates,Inc.,in an amount not to exceed $900,000,for the provision of ophthalmology services for CCHP members and County recipients, for the period April 1, 2024 through March 31, 2027. Approval of Contract Amendment Agreement #27-779-9 will modify the Contract to provide additional ophthalmology services including cornea cross-linking through March 31, 2027. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Amendment is not approved,certain ophthalmology services for CCHP members under the terms of their Individual and Group Health Plan membership contracts with the county will not be provided and may cause a delay in services to CCHP members. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2808 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/8/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Arc Health PBC, to provide health care access to vulnerable and rural patients in Contra Costa County for the period September 1, 2024 through June 30, 2029. (Non-financial agreement) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Memorandum of Understanding #76-875 with Arc Health PBC ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director,or designee to execute on behalf of the County Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)#76-875 with Arc Health PBC,a corporation,a non-financial agreement,to provide health care access to vulnerable and rural patients in Contra Costa County,for the period from September 1, 2024 through June 30, 2029. FISCAL IMPACT: This is a non-financial agreement. BACKGROUND: Contra Costa Regional Medical Center (CCRMC)and Contra Costa Health Centers will work with Contractor to advance equitable health care access for vulnerable and rural patients,including the establishment of new partnerships with health systems,the placement of physicians and health personnel in locum tenens positions and other such activities.They will coordinate with other academic institutions and organizations to identify unique and meaningful opportunities including but not limited to collaborative research and practicum experience for health care professionals. Approval of Memorandum of Understanding #76-875 will provide health care access for vulnerable and rural patients in Contra Costa County,through June 30,2029.This Agreement includes mutual indemnification to hold harmless,defend and indemnify both parties for any claims arising out of the performance of this Contract. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Agreement is not approved, vulnerable and rural patients will not have access to health care services. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2808,Version:1 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2809 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/13/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Greater Richmond Inter-Faith Program, in an amount not to exceed $827,441 to provide emergency shelter services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness in West County and operate the Coordinated Assessment Resource and Engagement Center and Warming Center for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. (51% Behavioral Health Services Act; 24% Housing and Urban Development; 17% Measure X; 8% County General Fund) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #25-042-36 with Greater Richmond Inter-Faith Program ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute on behalf of the County Contract #25-042-36 with Greater Richmond Inter-Faith Program, a non-profit corporation, in an amount not to exceed $827,441, to provide emergency shelter services, Coordinated Assessment Resource and Engagement (CARE) Center and Warming Center for the Homeless Coordinated Entry System of Care for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: This Contract will result in annual service expenditures of up to $827,441 for FY 2024-25 and is funded by 51% Behavioral Health Services Act (BHSA) funds, 24% by Housing and Urban Development, 17% by Measure X funds, and 8% by County General funds. BACKGROUND: This Contract meets the social needs of county’s population by providing emergency shelter services, twenty- four hours per day, seven days per week, to homeless adults in West County. Contractor will operate the West County CARE Center and Warming Center for the Homeless Coordinated Entry System providing support services to Contra Costa County families that are homeless, including case management, day shelter services, transportation needs, mental health assessment and crisis intervention. Greater Richmond Inter-Faith Program has been providing emergency shelter services and operating the CARE/Warming Center in West County since July 2001. This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities: California Government Code CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2809,Version:1 § 26227 and 31000. This Contract was approved by Health Services Personnel to ensure there is no conflict with labor relations. The Health, Housing and Homeless Services Division Contract Monitoring staff meet on a regular basis to ensure monitoring of performance measures set forth in the contract are upheld. The request for proposal (RFP) was posted on December 15, 2023 and closed on January 31, 2024. Greater Richmond Inter- Faith Program was awarded the RFP on May 15, 2024. On September 19, 2023, the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #25-042-34 with Greater Richmond Inter- Faith Program in an amount not to exceed $410,000 to provide emergency shelter services at the Emergency Family Shelter for homeless families and operate the West County CARE Center for the Homeless Coordinated Entry System of Care, for the period from July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2023. On September 19, 2023, the Board of Supervisors approved Amendment Agreement #25-042-35, effective November 1, 2023, to increase the payment limit by $203,217, to a new payment limit of $613,217, with no change in the term to operate the Warming Center in addition to the Care Center and Emergency Shelter in West Contra Costa County. Approval of Contract #25-042-36 will allow the contractor to continue to provide emergency shelter services at the Emergency Family Shelter and operate the West County CARE/Warming Center through June 30, 2024. Due to the prolonged process for Measure X housing funds, this contract was submitted late by the division. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved, emergency family shelter CARE and Warming Center services for homeless individuals and families in West County will be forced to reduce, thereby resulting in an increase in unsheltered residents. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2810 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/14/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract amendment with the California Department of Public Health, to increase the amount payable to County by $305,880 to an amount not to exceed $17,222,178 for additional Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants and Children services with no change in the term ending September 30, 2025. (No County match) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Amendment Agreement #29-203-105 with the California Department of Public Health ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute on behalf of the County Standard Agreement (Amendment) #29 203-105 (State #22-10241, A-4) with the California Department of Public Health, to increase the total amount payable to the county by $305,880 to a new total of $17,222,178, for additional Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) services with no change in the original term of October 1, 2022 through September 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this agreement will result in an additional amount payable to the County of $305,880 from the California Department of Public Health for the Supplemental Food Program for WIC services through September 30, 2025. (No County match required) BACKGROUND: Since 1974 the county has participated in the WIC Program with the State. This is a mandated program under the Community Health Services Division of the State Department of Health Services. WIC is a nutrition education, counseling and food supplement program for low-income, pregnant, postpartum and breast-feeding women, infants and children at nutritional risk. This program serves approximately 22,200 clients. On September 13, 2022, the Board of Supervisors approved Standard Agreement #29-203-101 with the California Department of Public Health, in an amount not to exceed $15,881,124 for the WIC Program, for the period from October 1, 2022 through September 30, 2025. This agreement including agreeing to indemnify and hold the State harmless for claims arising out of the County’s performance under this agreement. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2810,Version:1 On March 21, 2023, the Board of Supervisors approved Standard Agreement #29-203-102 with the California Department of Public Health, to increase the amount payable to the County by $430,584 to a new total of $16,311,708 for the WIC Program, with no change in the original term. On June 27, 2023, the Board of Supervisors approved Standard Agreement #29-203-103 with the California Department of Public Health, to increase the amount payable to the County by $276,636 to a new total of $16,588,344 for the WIC Program, with no change in the original term. On April 22, 2024, the Board of Supervisors approved Standard Agreement #29-203-104 with California Department of Public Health, to increase the amount payable to the County by $327,954 to a new total of $16,916,298 for the WIC Program, with no change in the original term. Approval of Standard Agreement (Amendment) #29-203-105 will allow for additional funding in the amount of $305,880 from the State funding for the WIC Supplemental Food Program through September 30, 2025. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this contract is not approved, County will not receive funding to support the continuation of the WIC Supplemental Food Program. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2811 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/15/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Seneca Family of Agencies, in an amount not to exceed $737,109 to provide Behavioral Health Services Act and Full-Service Partnership Program services to non-Medi-Cal youth ages eighteen and under with serious emotional disturbance and mental illness for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. (100% Behavioral Health Services Act) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #74-676-1 with Seneca Family of Agencies ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute on behalf of the County Contract #74-676-1 with Seneca Family of Agencies, a corporation, in an amount not to exceed $737,109, to provide Behavioral Health Services Act (BHSA) Full Service Partnership (FSP) Services to non-Medi-Cal youth ages eighteen (18) and under with serious emotional disturbance and mental illness, for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Contract will result in an annual budgeted expenditure of up to $737,109 for FY 2024-25 and will be funded 100% by Behavioral Health Services Act. BACKGROUND: This Contract meets the social needs of County’s population by providing a FSP Program funded by the BHSA, providing a comprehensive range of mental health services and supports in West, Central and East Contra Costa County to non-Medi-Cal youth ages 18 and under with serious emotional disturbance, mental illness and who are likely to exhibit co-occurring disorders with severe life stressors and from an underserved population. This Contract was approved by Health Services Personnel to ensure there is no conflict with labor relations. This Contractor has been providing BHSA FSP services to the County since July 1, 2023. This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities: California Government Code §§ 26227 and 31000. This Contract was approved by Health Services Personnel to ensure there is no conflict with labor relations. The Behavioral Health’s Quality Management, Utilization Management and Contract Monitor Staff meet on a regular basis to ensure monitoring and performance measures in the Contract are CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2811,Version:1 upheld. This provider was selected in collaboration with community stakeholder advisory bodies and was approved as part of the comprehensive Mental Health Services Act Three-Year Plan as required by State regulation. Providers interested in providing specialized services were invited proactively to participate in program development and offered the opportunity to submit interest at dozens of publicly noticed meetings. The services and vendors were identified in the formal Three-Year plan was approved on the following schedule that was noticed to the public and approved by the Board on August 1, 2023. The Three-Year Plan was posted for public comment from June 5, 2023 through July 5, 2023, there was a Public Hearing at the Mental Health Commission meeting on July 5, 2023, and it was approved by the Board of Supervisors on August 1, 2023. On January 9, 2024, the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #74-676 with Seneca Family of Agencies in an amount not to exceed $737,109 to provide BHSA FSP services to non-Medi-Cal youth ages 18 and under with SED and mental illness, for the period July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024. Approval of Contract #74-676-1 will allow Contractor to continue to provide BHSA FSP services through June 30, 2025. This Contract is late due to delayed budget negotiations between division and Contractor. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved, mentally ill youth requiring BHSA FSP services will not have access to contractor’s mental health services, leading to reduced levels of service to the community and potential placement in higher levels of care. CHILDREN’S IMPACT STATEMENT: This Contract supports the following Board of Supervisors’ community outcomes: “Families that are Safe, Stable, and Nurturing” and “Communities that are Safe and Provide a High Quality of Life for Children and Families”. Expected program outcomes include increases in social connectedness, communication skills, parenting skills, and knowledge of the human service system in Contra Costa County. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2812 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/15/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Community Health for Asian Americans, in an amount not to exceed $3,547,983 to provide school and community based Medi-Cal specialty mental health services to children and their families in East and West Contra Costa County for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. (100% Federal Medi- Cal) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #24-927-37 with Community Health for Asian Americans ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director,or designee,to execute on behalf of the County Contract #24-927-37 with Community Health for Asian Americans,a non-profit corporation,in an amount not to exceed $3,547,983,to provide school and community based Medi-Cal specialty mental health services to children and families in East and West Contra Costa County for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Contract will result in annual budgeted expenditures of up to $3,547,983 for FY 2024-25 and will be funded 100% by Federal Medi-Cal revenues. BACKGROUND: Behavioral Health Services Division (BHSD)/Mental Health has an obligation to provide certain school and community based Medi-Cal specialty mental health services including but not limited to:wraparound and outpatient treatment,individual,group and family evaluations and therapy,plan development,rehabilitation support services,medication support services,crisis intervention services and linkage/advocacy services for its members under the terms of their Individual and Group Health Plan membership contracts with the County. This Contract meets the social needs of County’s population by providing community-based mental health services focusing on the underserved Asian population in East and West Contra Costa which will result in positive social and emotional development at home,in the community and greater school success.This Contractor has been providing these Medi-Cal specialty mental health services while fostering a deep understanding of the BHSD organizations mission, values, and long-term objectives since December 1997. This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities:Welfare and Institution Code, §5600 et seq.(The Bronzan McCorquodale Act);California Code of Regulations (“CCR”),Title 9,§523 et seq. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2812,Version:1 §5600 et seq.(The Bronzan McCorquodale Act);California Code of Regulations (“CCR”),Title 9,§523 et seq. (Community Mental Health Services)and California Government Code §§26227 and 31000.Health Services Personnel approved this Contract to ensure no conflicts with labor relations.Contractor currently cooperates and participates in BHSD’s Quality Management Program which consists of quality improvement activities to improve the quality of care,services and member experience.Cooperation includes collection and evaluation of performance measurement data and participation in the organization’s clinical and service measure Quality Improvement Programs.Per Administrative Bulletin 600.3 the Department has posted a continuous Request for Qualifications and maintains a current qualified list of vendors at all times. On June 27,2023,the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #24-927-36 with Community Health for Asian Americans,in an amount not to exceed $3,547,983,for the provision of school and community based Medi-Cal specialty mental health services to children and families in East and West Contra Costa,for the period from July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024. Approval of Contract #24-927-37 will allow the Contractor to continue to provide school and community based Medi-Cal specialty mental health services for children and families in East and West Contra Costa through June 30, 2025. This Contract delay was due to negotiations between the Division and Contractor. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved, there will be fewer Medi-Cal specialty mental health services available for Asian American and other ethnic groups receiving services at our programs in East and West Contra Costa and will have reduced access to treatment services in school, drug court and clinic settings. CHILDREN’S IMPACT STATEMENT: This Early and Periodic Screening,Diagnostic,and Treatment (EPSDT)program supports the following Board of Supervisors’community outcomes:“Children Ready For and Succeeding in School”;“Families that are Safe, Stable,and Nurturing”;and “Communities that are Safe and Provide a High Quality of Life for Children and Families”.Expected program outcomes include an increase in positive social and emotional development as measured by the Child and Adolescent Functional Assessment Scale (CAFAS). CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2813 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/15/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Mt. Diablo Unified School District, in an amount not to exceed $7,081,524 to provide school-based Medi- Cal specialty mental health services to seriously emotionally disturbed students and their families for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. (100% Federal Medi-Cal) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #74-371-17 with Mt. Diablo Unified School District ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director,or designee,to execute on behalf of the County Contract #74-371-17 with Mt.Diablo Unified School District (MDUSD),a government agency,in an amount not to exceed $7,081,524,to provide school-based Medi-Cal specialty mental health services to Seriously Emotionally Disturbed (SED) students and their families for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Contract will result in annual budgeted expenditures of up to $7,081,524 for FY 2024-25 and will be funded 100% by Federal Medi-Cal revenues. BACKGROUND: Behavioral Health Services Division (BHSD)/Mental Health has an obligation to provide certain school and community based Medi-Cal specialty mental health services including but not limited to:early and periodic screening,diagnostic and treatment (EPSDT),wraparound and outpatient treatment,individual,group and family evaluations and therapy,plan development,rehabilitation support services,medication support services, crisis intervention services and linkage/advocacy services for its members under the terms of their Individual and Group Health Plan membership contracts with the County.This Contract meets the social needs of County’s population by providing community-based mental health services focusing on SED children and their families in the MDUSD which will result in positive social and emotional development at home,in the community and greater school success.This Contractor has been providing these Medi-Cal specialty mental health services while fostering a deep understanding of the BHSD organizations mission,values,and long-term objectives since August 2009. This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities:Welfare and Institution Code, §5600 et seq.(The Bronzan McCorquodale Act);California Code of Regulations (“CCR”),Title 9,§523 et seq. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2813,Version:1 §5600 et seq.(The Bronzan McCorquodale Act);California Code of Regulations (“CCR”),Title 9,§523 et seq. (Community Mental Health Services)and California Government Code §§26227 and 31000.Health Services Personnel approved this Contract to ensure no conflicts with labor relations.Contractor currently cooperates and participates in BHSD’s Quality Management Program which consists of quality improvement activities to improve the quality of care,services and member experience.Cooperation includes collection and evaluation of performance measurement data and participation in the organization’s clinical and service measure Quality Improvement Programs.These contracted services were determined to be exempt from Administrative Bulletin 600.3 solicitation requirements due to Contractor being a government agency. On June 27,2023,the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #74-371--16 with Mt.Diablo Unified School District,in an amount not to exceed $7,081,524,for the provision of school-based Medi-Cal specialty mental health services for SED students and their families in the MDUSD,for the period from July 1,2023 through June 30, 2024. Approval of Contract #74-371-17 will allow the Contractor to continue to provide school-based Medi-Cal specialty mental health services for SED students and families through June 30,2025.This Contract delay was due to negotiations between the Division and Contractor. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved,there will be fewer Medi-Cal specialty mental health services available for SED children in MDUSD and students will have reduced access to treatment services and may require placement at higher level of care, including hospitalization or residential care. CHILDREN’S IMPACT STATEMENT: This school-based Early and Periodic Screening,Diagnostic,and Treatment (EPSDT)program supports the following Board of Supervisors’community outcomes:“Children Ready For and Succeeding in School”; “Families that are Safe,Stable,and Nurturing”;and “Communities that are Safe and Provide a High Quality of Life for Children and Families”.Expected program outcomes include an increase in positive social and emotional development as measured by the Child and Adolescent Functional Assessment Scale (CAFAS). CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2814 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/15/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Vistability (dba Lynn Center), in an amount not to exceed $266,152 to provide mental health services to recipients of the California Work Opportunities and Responsibility to Kids Program and their children, including individual, group and family collateral counseling, case management, and medication management services for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. (100% Substance Abuse Mental Health Works) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #74-037-35 with Vistability (dba Lynn Center) ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute on behalf of the County Contract #74-037-35 with Vistability (dba Lynn Center), formerly Contra Costa ARC (dba Vistability), a non- profit corporation, in an amount not to exceed $266,152, to provide mental health services to recipients of the California Work Opportunities and Responsibility to Kids (“CalWORKs”) and their children including individual, group and family collateral counseling, case management, and medication management services for the period from July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Contract will result in annual budgeted expenditures of up to $266,152 as budgeted by the department for FY 2024-25 and will be funded 100% by Substance Abuse Mental Health Works (SAMWORKS) revenues. BACKGROUND: This Contract meets the social needs of County’s population by providing mental health services for CalWORKs recipients and their children ages birth to 17 years, in the SAMWORKS program including individual, group and family collateral counseling, case management, and medication management services to reduce barriers to employment. Recipients have been determined by County’s Department of Employment and Human Services (“EHSD”) to be eligible to receive benefits and who have been referred to the County’s Behavioral Health Services Division/Alcohol and Other Drugs Services (“AODS”) Treatment Programs The Behavioral Health Services Division has been contracting with Vistability (dba Lynn Center), formerly Contra Costa ARC (dba Vistability), since January 2000. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2814,Version:1 This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities: California Government Code §§ 26227 and 31000. This Contract was approved by Health Services Personnel to ensure there is no conflict with labor relations. The Behavioral Health’s Quality Management, Utilization Management and Contract Monitor Staff meet on a regular basis to ensure monitoring and performance measures in the Contract are upheld. This Contractor was approved by the Public Works Department’s Purchasing Division on August 19, 2024. On July 11, 2023, the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #74-037-33 with Vistability (dba Lynn Center), in an amount of $266,152, for the provision of mental health services to recipients of the CalWORKs Program and their children, including individual, group and family collateral counseling, case management, and medication management services to reduce barriers to employment for the period from July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024. Approval of Contract #74-037-35 will allow the Contractor to continue providing services through June 30, 2025.This Contract is late due to delays in County receiving rates from the state. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved, CalWORKs recipients will not have sufficient access to the children’s mental health services as needed. CHILDREN’S IMPACT STATEMENT This program supports the following Board of Supervisors’ community outcomes: “Families that are safe, stable and nurturing.” Expected program outcome is increased number of CalWORKs participants ready to return to the labor force and earn income after they and their families receive mental health services under this contract. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2815 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/16/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Contra Costa Interfaith Transitional Housing, Inc. (dba Hope Solutions), in an amount not to exceed $1,692,000 to provide rapid re-housing and homeless prevention services to homeless adults and transition-aged youth on probation for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. (100% Probation Department funds) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #25-094-4 with Contra Costa Interfaith Transitional Housing, Inc. (dba Hope Solutions) ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute on behalf of the County Contract #25-094-4 with Contra Costa Interfaith Transitional Housing, Inc. (dba Hope Solutions), a non-profit corporation, in an amount not to exceed $1,692,000 to provide rapid re-housing and homeless prevention services for homeless adults and transition-aged youth (TAY) on probation for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Contract will result in annual expenditures up to $1,692,000 as budgeted by the department for FY 2024-2025 and will be funded 100% by Probation Department funds. BACKGROUND: This Contract meets the social needs of the County’s population by providing rapid re-housing and homeless prevention services for homeless adults and transition-aged youth (TAY) on probation, which includes case management and housing navigation services. Contractor has been providing services to homeless individuals under this Contract since July 2021. This Contractor was selected for services due to a history of positive housing outcomes, operational efficiency, and cost-effectiveness which makes them the most reliable choice to ensure project success. This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities: California Government Code § 26227 and 31000. This contract was approved by Health Services Personnel to ensure there is no conflict with CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2815,Version:1 labor relations. The Health, Housing and Homeless Services Division Contract Monitoring staff meet on a regular basis to ensure monitoring of performance measures set forth in the contract are upheld. This contractor was approved by the Public Works Department’s Purchasing Division on August 23, 2023. On September 19, 2023, the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #25-094-2 with Contra Costa Interfaith Transitional Housing, Inc. (dba Hope Solutions), in an amount not to exceed $1,775,000 for the provision of housing support services including case management and housing navigation services for homeless individuals on probation for the period July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024. On March 19, 2024, the Board of Supervisors approved Amendment Agreement #25-094-3 with Contra Costa Interfaith Transitional Housing, Inc. (dba Hope Solutions), effective March 1, 2024, to increase the payment limit by $234,001 to a new payment limit of $2,009,001 for additional housing navigation and case management services for homeless individuals on probation with no change in the term. Approval of Contract #25-094-4 will allow the Contractor to continue providing services for homeless adults and TAY on probation through June 30, 2025. This Contract is late due to a prolonged process for finalizing the interdepartmental agreement with the Probation Department. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved, homeless adults and TAY on probation will not have access to Contractor’s services and may remain or become homeless. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2816 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/16/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Contra Costa Interfaith Transitional Housing, Inc. (dba Hope Solutions), in an amount not to exceed $1,949,700 to provide rapid re-housing and homeless prevention services for individuals who are at risk of or currently experiencing homelessness for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. (100% Employment and Human Services Department Housing Disability Advocacy Program funds) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #25-098-2 with Contra Costa Interfaith Transitional Housing, Inc. (dba Hope Solutions) ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute on behalf of County Contract #25-098-2 with Contra Costa Interfaith Transitional Housing, Inc. (dba Hope Solutions), a non-profit corporation, in an amount not to exceed $1,949,700 to provide rapid re-housing and homeless prevention services to individuals who are for individuals who are at risk of or currently experiencing homelessness and referred by Employment and Human Services Department‘s (EHSD) Housing Disability Advocacy Program (HDAP) for the period from July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: This Contract will result in annual service expenditures of up to $1,949,700 and will be funded 100% by EHSD Housing Disability Advocacy Program grant funds. BACKGROUND: This Contract meets the social needs of County’s population by providing rapid rehousing and homeless prevention services to Contra Costa County individuals experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness. Contractor will provide these services to individuals approved by EHSD’s HDAP program individuals that are homeless who are experiencing homelessness. EHSD will approve individuals who meet HDAP criteria and appear eligible to receive Social Security Income (SSI), Social Security Disability Income (SSDI), Veterans benefits, or Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI). Contractor will house up to seventy-two (72) homeless individuals referred by EHSD and assessed as having potential eligibility to any of the SSI/SSDI, veterans, or CAPI benefits. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2816,Version:1 This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities: California Government Code § 26227 and 31000. This Contract was approved by Health Services Personnel to ensure there is no conflict with labor relations. The Health, Housing and Homeless Services Division (H3) Contract Monitoring staff meet on a regular basis to ensure monitoring of performance measures set forth in the contract are upheld. The request for proposal (RFP) was posted on December 15, 2023 and closed on January 31, 2024. This Contractor was selected through the RFP process on May 15, 2024. On March 22, 2022, the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #25-098 with Contra Costa Interfaith Transitional Housing, Inc. (dba Hope Solutions), in an amount not to exceed $2,013,806 to provide housing navigation support services to individuals who are experiencing homelessness or are at risk for homelessness for the period from July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2024. Approval of Contract #25-098-2 will allow Contractor to continue to provide rapid rehousing and homeless prevention services through June 30, 2025. This Contract is late due to the Division not receiving the interagency agreement for the HDAP grant allocation from EHSD until June 25, 2024. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved, homeless individuals will not have access to Contractor’s rapid rehousing and homeless prevention services. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2817 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/20/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Stericycle, Inc., in an amount not to exceed $250,000 to provide hazardous waste management removal services at the Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers for the period July 1, 2024 through December 31, 2024. (100% Hospital Enterprise Fund I) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #26-437-17 with Stericycle, Inc. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute, on behalf of the County Contract #26-437-15 with Stericycle, Inc., a corporation, in an amount not to exceed $250,000, for the provision of hazardous waste management services at the Contra Costa Regional Medical Center (CCRMC) and Health Centers, for the period July 1, 2024 through December 31, 2024. FISCAL IMPACT: This contract will result in contractual service expenditures of up to $250,000 over a six-month period and will be funded 100% by Hospital Enterprise Fund I. (No rate increase) BACKGROUND: Contra Costa County has been contracting with Stericycle, Inc. since April 2002 to provide hazardous waste management services to CCRMC and various Health Center locations within the County including pick-up of filled waste containers and delivery of empty, clean containers, on the dates, at the times, and at the designated pick-up sites in each facility. This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities: California Government Code §§ 26227 and 31000. This Contract was approved by Health Services Personnel to ensure there is no conflict with labor relations. CCRMC’s Quality Management, Utilization Management, and monitoring staff meet regularly to ensure monitoring and performance measures in the Contract are upheld. This Contractor was selected through the Request for Proposal (RFP) process and awarded this Contract by Public Works Department’s Purchasing Division on May 15, 2024. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2817,Version:1 On September 7, 2021, the Board of Supervisors approved Contact #26-437-15 with Stericycle, Inc., in an amount not to exceed $1,200,000 to provide bio-hazardous waste management removal services for CCRMC and Health Center locations, for the period from July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2024. Approval of Contract #26-437-17 will allow the Contractor to continue providing services through December 31, 2024. This Contract is delayed due to another vendor appealing the RFP selection. CCRMC cannot be without this service therefore a six-month contract with Stericycle is necessary to ensure hazardous waste is properly managed until another RFP is finalized. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved, CCRMC and Health Centers would not be in compliance with Health and Safety Codes with regard to bio-hazardous waste management and removal. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2818 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/21/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract amendment with Bluesight, Inc., to increase the payment limit by $256,412 to an amount not to exceed $279,352 and to extend the term through September 27, 2029 and for successive one year terms thereafter (until terminated) for additional software licenses for controlled substances inventory management software for Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and the Detention Center. (51% Hospital Enterprise Fund I; 49% County General Fund) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Amendment/Extension #23-751-1 with Bluesight, Inc. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director,or designee,to execute on behalf of the County Amendment No.1 (#23-751-1)with Bluesight,Inc.,a corporation,effective May 8,2024,to amend Bluesight Software as a Service Order Form and Agreement #23-751,to increase the payment limit by $256,412,from $22,940 to a new payment limit of $279,352 and extend the term through September 27,2029,and for successive (1)year terms thereafter until terminated,for controlled substance inventory management software at Contra Costa Regional Medical Center (CCRMC) and the Detention Centers. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Amendment will result in additional expenditures of up to $256,412 and will be funded as budgeted by the department in FYs 2024-29, by 51% Hospital Enterprise Fund I; 49% County General Fund. BACKGROUND: Pandora,the legacy vendor that provided (this service)was acquired.CCRMC discontinued using that service and transitioned to Bluesight ControlCheck in 2023.A summary of service contract deliverables,including measurable outcomes required of the vendor to be monitored by the department in compliance with Section III (Bincludethe Purchasing Policy include,the performance of recurring activities to ensure stability and availability of the software solution and services,response to county's business needs to create,modify,or delete user accounts for existing security groups with the software solution and executing solution optimization tasks. On May 9,2023,the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #23-751 with Bluesight,Inc.,in an amount not to CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2818,Version:1 On May 9,2023,the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #23-751 with Bluesight,Inc.,in an amount not to exceed $22,940 for the provision of its controlled substance -inventory management software solution at CCRMC for the period from May 9, 2023, through May 8, 2024. Under this Amendment No.1,the parties will execute the First Amendment to Bluesight Software as a Service Order Form for the Bluesight for Controlled Substance Module to add additional licenses for the detention center,extend the term for six (6)years,and successive (1)year periods (each,a “Renewal Term”)thereafter, unless either party provides written termination notice prior to the anniversary renewal date.The division is requesting a retroactive date for this amendment due to delays caused by a backlog in the Health Services Department Information Technology Procurement unit. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Amendment is not approved,CCRMC will lose (and the Detention Centers will not gain)the ability to proactively monitor controlled substances resulting in the mismanagement of medication that includes operational, legal, and regulatory issues. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2819 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/21/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with the California Department of Public Health, to pay County an amount not to exceed $811,600 for the County Public Health HIV Surveillance Program to administer HIV surveillance activities in Contra Costa County for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2029. (100% No County match) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Agreement #29-388-60 with the California Department of Public Health ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute on behalf of the County Standard Agreement #29-388-60 (State #24-10274) with the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), to pay County an amount not to exceed $811,600 for the County Public Health HIV Surveillance Program to administer HIV surveillance activities, for the period from July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2029. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Agreement will result in the receipt of funding from the CDPH in an amount not to exceed $811,600, for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2029. No County match is required. BACKGROUND: The purpose of this Grant is to administer the HIV Surveillance Program and to ensure the implementation of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus surveillance activities. The County is responsible for planning, developing and implementing all aspects of HIV surveillance. This Grant Agreement with the State has been in place since 1994. On October 8, 2019, the Board of Supervisors approved Standard Agreement #29-388-59 with the California Department of Public Health, for the County’s AIDS Programs, including testing services, surveillance, case management, prevention education, outreach, social marketing, and services to women, for the period from July 1, 2019 through June 30, 2024. Approval of this Standard Agreement #29-388-60 will establish and enhance active and passive HIV case surveillance for the County’s HIV Surveillance Program through June 30, 2029. The Agreement includes CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2819,Version:1 County’s promise to indemnify, defend, and hold the State harmless for all claims and losses arising out of the County’s performance under the Agreement. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this contract is not approved, County will not receive the necessary funding to support the reduction in transmission of HIV, provide case management services that will reduce hospitalization and support to HIV positive individuals to live at home or allow for compliance with State and Federal requirements for reporting of communicable disease. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2820 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/22/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute an agreement with Kaiser Foundation Hospitals, to provide supervised clinical field instruction to medical resident students at County’s Health Care Services at the Adult Detention facilities for the period September 1, 2024 through August 31, 2026. (Non-financial) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Unpaid Student Training Agreement #76-879 with Kaiser Foundation Hospitals ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute on behalf of the County Unpaid Student Training Agreement #76-879 with Kaiser Foundation Hospitals, a non-profit corporation, to provide supervised clinical field instruction to medical resident students at County’s Health Care Services at the Adult Detention facilities, for the period September 1, 2024 through August 31, 2026. FISCAL IMPACT: This is a non-financial agreement BACKGROUND: The purpose of this Agreement is to provide Kaiser Foundation Hospitals medical resident students with the opportunity to integrate academic knowledge with applied skills at progressively higher levels of performance and responsibility. Supervised clinical fieldwork experience for residents is considered to be an integral part of both educational and professional preparation. The Health Services Department can provide the requisite field education, while at the same time, benefiting from the students’ services to patients. Approval of new Unpaid Student Training Agreement #76-879 will allow Contractor to provide supervised clinical fieldwork instruction at County’s Adult Detention facilities, for the period from September 1, 2024 through August 31, 2026. This Contract includes mutual indemnification which requires the parties to defend, indemnify, save and hold harmless the other party from claims arising from the performance under this Contract except for claims arising due to sole negligence or willful misconduct of that party. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2820,Version:1 If this Agreement is not approved, the students will not receive supervised fieldwork instruction experience at Adult Detention facilities. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2821 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/22/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Aspen Surgery Center, LLC, in an amount not to exceed $12,000,000 to provide ambulatory surgery center services to Contra Costa Health Plan members and County recipients for the period October 1, 2024 through September 30, 2026. (100% Contra Costa Health Plan Enterprise Fund II) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #77-280-4 with Aspen Surgery Center, LLC ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute, on behalf of the County Contract #77-280-4 with Aspen Surgery Center, LLC, a limited liability company, in an amount not to exceed $12,000,000, to provide ambulatory surgery center (ASC) services to Contra Costa Health Plan (CCHP) members and County recipients for the period October 1, 2024 through September 30, 2026. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Contract will result in expenditures of up to $12,000,000 over a two-year period as budgeted by the department and funded 100% by CCHP Enterprise Fund II revenues. BACKGROUND: CCHP has an obligation to provide certain specialized health care services, including ASC services for its members under the terms of their Individual and Group Health Plan membership contracts with the County. This Contractor has been a part of the CCHP Provider Network providing ASC services and fostering a deep understanding of the CCHP organizations mission, values, and long-term objectives since October 1, 2020. This Contract renewal will maintain comprehensive area coverage for the entire CCHP membership and meet the Knox-Keene Act, time and distance mandate required by the State of California Department of Managed Health Care (DMHC) services. This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities: California Government Code §§ 26227 and 31000; Health and Safety Code § 1451. Health Services Personnel approved this Contract to ensure no conflicts with labor relations. Contractor currently cooperates and participates in CCHP’s Quality Management Program which consists of quality improvement activities to improve the quality of care, services CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2821,Version:1 and member experience. Cooperation includes collection and evaluation of performance measurement data and participation in the organization’s clinical and service measure Quality Improvement Programs. Per Administrative Bulletin 600.3 CCHP Physician services are exempt from solicitation requirements. On September 12, 2023, the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #77-280-3 with Aspen Surgery Center, LLC, in the amount of $3,000,000, to provide ASC services to CCHP members and County recipients for the period October 1, 2023 through September 30, 2024. Approval of Contract #77-280-4 will allow the Contractor to continue providing ASC services for CCHP members and County recipients through September 30, 2026. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved, certain ASC specialty health care services for CCHP members under the terms of their Individual and Group Health Plan membership contracts with the County will not be provided and may cause a delay in services to CCHP members. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2822 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/23/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract amendment with RHD Healthcare Consulting, Inc., to increase the payment limit by $352,704 to an amount not to exceed $705,408 and to extend the term from September 30, 2024 to September 30, 2025 for additional consultation and technical assistance regarding compliance with billing and privacy issues. (100% Hospital Enterprise Fund I) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Amendment/Extension #23-398-19 with RHD Healthcare Consulting, Inc. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute on behalf of the County Contract Amendment/Extension #23-398-19 with RHD Healthcare Consulting, Inc., a corporation, effective September 30, 2024, to increase the payment limit by $352,704, from $352,704, to a new payment limit of $705,408 and to extend the termination date from September 30, 2024 to September 30, 2025 for additional consultation and technical assistance regarding compliance with billing and privacy issues. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Amendment will result in additional annual expenditures of up to $352,704 and will be funded as budgeted by the department in FY 2024-25, by 100% Hospital Enterprise Fund I. (No rate increase) BACKGROUND: This Contract meets the business needs of the County by providing consultation and technical assistance to the Health Services Department with regard to compliance of Medicare and Medi-Cal rules and regulations covering reimbursement for patient services, including guidelines related to fraud and abuse, and to ensure compliance with HIPAA privacy regulations. This Contractor has been providing services to the Health Services Department since October 1, 2006. On August 15, 2023, the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #23-398-18 with RHD Healthcare Consulting, Inc., in an amount not to exceed $352,704 to provide professional consultation and technical assistance to the Health Services Director with regard to compliance of Medicare and Medi-Cal rules and regulations covering reimbursement for patient services, including guidelines related to fraud and abuse, and to ensure compliance with HIPAA privacy regulations, for the period from October 1, 2023 through September CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2822,Version:1 30, 2024. Approval of Amendment/Extension #23-398-19 will allow the Contractor to continue to provide services through September 30, 2025. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this contract is not approved the County will not be able to continue compliance of Medicare and Medi-Cal rules and regulations covering reimbursement for patient services. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2823 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/23/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Bi- Bett, in an amount not to exceed $5,873,675 to provide substance use disorder prevention, treatment, and detoxification services for County residents referred through the Behavioral Health Access Line for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. (21% Substance Abuse Treatment and Prevention Block Grant; 72% Federal Medi-Cal; 3% Assembly Bill 109; 4% Opioid Settlement funds) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #74-174-49 with Bi-Bett ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director,or designee,to execute on behalf of the County Contract #74-174-49 with Bi-Bett,a non-profit corporation,in an amount not to exceed $5,873,675,to provide substance use disorder prevention,treatment,and detoxification services for County residents referred through the Behavioral Health Access Line, for the period from July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Contract will result in annual budgeted expenditures of up to $5,873,675 and will be funded by 21%Substance Abuse Treatment and Prevention Block Grant;72%Federal Medi-Cal;3%Assembly Bill 109 ($208,949) and 4% Opioid Settlement revenues. BACKGROUND: This Contract meets the social needs of County’s population by providing specialized substance use disorder treatment services so that men and women,including women with children,are provided an opportunity to achieve and maintain sobriety and to experience the associated benefits of self-sufficiency,family reunification, cessation of criminal activity and productive engagement in the community.Contractor shall provide,operate, and administer Substance Use Disorder (SUD)prevention and treatment program services as certified by the State of California must operate under the terms and conditions of the Drug Medi-Cal Organized Delivery System (DMC-ODS)and must be provided in its facility(ies)referenced in County Health Services Alcohol and Other Drugs (AODS) Department’s Work Plan. This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities:California Government Code §§26227 and 31000.Per Administrative Bulletin 600.3 the Department has posted a continuous Request for Qualifications and maintains a current qualified list of vendors at all times.This Contract was approved byCONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2823,Version:1 Qualifications and maintains a current qualified list of vendors at all times.This Contract was approved by Health Services Personnel to ensure there is no conflict with labor relations.The Behavioral Health’s Quality Management,Utilization Management and Contract Monitor Staff meet on a regular basis to ensure monitoring and performance measures in the Contract are upheld. On September 12,2023,the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #74-174-47,with Bi-Bett,in an amount not to exceed $5,223,727,to provide substance use disorder prevention,treatment,and detoxification services for county residents referred through the Behavioral Health Access Line,for the period July 1,2023 through June 30, 2024. Approval of Contract #74-174-49 will allow the Contractor to continue providing substance use disorder treatment services through June 30,2025.The delay of this Contract was due to ongoing negotiations between the Contractor and the Department. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved,County residents referred through the Behavioral Health Access Line will not receive substance use disorder treatment services from this Contractor. CHILDREN’S IMPACT STATEMENT: This Alcohol and Drug Abuse prevention program supports the Board of Supervisors’“Families that are Safe, Stable,and Nurturing”and “Communities that are Safe and Provide a High Quality of Life for Children and Families”community outcomes by providing individual,group,and family counseling;substance abuse education;rehabilitation support services;and substance abuse prevention services.Expected outcomes include increased knowledge about the impact of addiction;decreased use of alcohol,tobacco and other drugs; increased use of community-based resources;and increased school and community support for youth and parents in recovery. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2824 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/23/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Fred Finch Youth Center, in an amount not to exceed $3,011,440 to provide Medi-Cal Specialty mental health services, for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. (100% Federal Medi-Cal) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #24-928-39 with Fred Finch Youth Center ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director,or designee,to execute on behalf of the County Contract #24-928-39 with Fred Finch Youth Center,a non-profit corporation,in an amount not to exceed $3,011,440,to provide Medi-Cal Specialty mental health services,for the period July 1,2024 through June 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Contract will result in annual budgeted expenditures of up to $3,011,440 and will be funded 100% by Federal Medi-Cal revenues. BACKGROUND: This Contract meets the social needs of County’s population by providing school and community based mental health services,including assessments,individual,group and family therapy,medication support,case management,outreach,therapeutic behavioral services and crisis intervention services for Seriously Emotionally Disturbed (SED) middle and high school aged children and their families. This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities:Welfare and Institution Code, §5600 et seq.(The Bronzan McCorquodale Act);California Code of Regulations (“CCR”),Title 9,§523 et seq. (Community Mental Health Services)and California Government Code §§26227 and 31000.Health Services Personnel approved this Contract to ensure no conflicts with labor relations.Contractor currently cooperates and participates in BHSD’s Quality Management Program which consists of quality improvement activities to improve the quality of care,services and member experience.Cooperation includes collection and evaluation of performance measurement data and participation in the organization’s clinical and service measure Quality Improvement Programs.Per Administrative Bulletin 600.3 the Department has posted a continuous Request for CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2824,Version:1 Qualifications and maintains a current qualified list of vendors at all times. On June 27,2023,the Board of Supervisors approved Novation Contract #24-928-37 with Fred Finch Youth Center,in an amount not to exceed $3,041,859,for the provision of school-based mental health services and a multi-dimensional family treatment program for SED students and their families,for the period July 1,2023 through June 30, 2024. On June 25,2024,the Board of Supervisors approved Contract Amendment #24-928-38,effective June 1,2024, to decrease the payment limit from $3,041,859 to a new payment limit of $3,011,440,with no change in the term July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024. Approval of Contract #24-928-39 allows the Contractor to continue providing services through June 30,2025. The delay of this Contract was due to ongoing negotiations between the Contractor and the Department. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved,there will be fewer Medi-Cal Specialty mental health services available for SED children in Contra Costa County as the County solicits and engages an alternative contractor. CHILDREN’S IMPACT STATEMENT: This program supports the following Board of Supervisors’community outcomes:“Children Ready For and Succeeding in School”;“Families that are Safe,Stable,and Nurturing”;and “Communities that are Safe and Provide a High Quality of Life for Children and Families”.Expected program outcomes include an increase in positive social and emotional development as measured by the Child and Adolescent Functional Assessment Scale (CAFAS). CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2825 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/23/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Lincoln, in an amount not to exceed $594,447 to provide multi-dimensional family therapy for adolescents, and their families, who are on probation or referred by County’s Mental Health Children’s System of Care for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. (100% Mental Health Services Act) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #74-575-14 with Lincoln ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute on behalf of the County Contract #74-575-14 with Lincoln, a non-profit corporation, in an amount not to exceed $594,447, to provide multi-dimensional family therapy (MDFT) for eligible adolescents ages 11-19, and their families, who have mental health issues or co-occurring issues with substance abuse associated with mental health and behavioral problems, for the period from July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Contract will result in annual budgeted expenditures of up to $594,447 as budget by the department for FY 2024-25 and will be funded 100% by Mental Health Services Act revenue. BACKGROUND: This Contract meets the social needs of the County’s population by providing MDFT for eligible adolescents, and their families, who have mental health issues or co-occurring issues with substance abuse associated with mental health and behavioral problems and who are on probation or referred by County’s Mental Health Children’s System of Care. The Behavioral Health Services Division has been contracting with Lincoln since July 2018. This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities: Welfare and Institutions Code §§ 5600, et seq. (The Bronzan McCorquodale Act); California Code of Regulations (“CCR”), Title 9, §§ 523, et seq. (Community Mental Health Services); California Government Code §§ 26227 and 31000. The Behavioral Health’s Quality Management, Utilization Management and Contract Monitor Staff meet on a regular basis to ensure monitoring and performance measures in the contract are upheld. This contract was approved by Health Services Personnel to ensure there is no conflict with labor relations. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2825,Version:1 This Contractor was selected in collaboration with community stakeholder advisory bodies and was approved as part of the comprehensive Mental Health Services Act Three-Year Plan as required by State regulation. Providers interested in providing specialized services were invited proactively to participate in program development and offered the opportunity to submit interest at dozens of publicly noticed meetings. The services and vendors were identified in the formal Three-Year plan was approved on the following schedule that was noticed to the public and approved by the Board on August 1, 2023. The Three-Year Plan was posted for public comment from June 5, 2023 through July 5, 2023, there was a Public Hearing at the Mental Health Commission meeting on July 5, 2023, and it was approved by the Board of Supervisors on August 1, 2023. On November 28, 2023, the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #74-575-13 with Lincoln, in an amount not to exceed $594,447, to provide MDFT adolescents and their families, for the period July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024. Approval of Contract #74-575-14 will allow the Contractor to continue providing services through June 30, 2025. This Contract is delayed due to prolonged budget negotiations between the Division and Contractor. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved,adolescents and their families may experience reduced or discontinued behavioral health services. CHILDREN’S IMPACT STATEMENT: This Contract supports the following Board of Supervisors’community outcomes:“Children Ready for and Succeeding in School”;“Families that are Safe,Stable,and Nurturing”;and “Communities that are Safe and Provide a High Quality of Life for Children and Families”.Expected program outcomes include an increase in positive social and emotional development as measured by the Child and Adolescent Functional Assessment Scale (CAFAS) and placement at discharge to a lower level of care. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2826 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/23/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Alternative Family Services, Inc., in an amount not to exceed $500,000 to provide Medi-Cal Specialty mental health services for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. (100% Federal Medi-Cal) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #74-317-26 with Alternative Family Services, Inc. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director,or designee,to execute on behalf of the County Contract #74-317-26 with Alternative Family Services,Inc.,a non-profit corporation,in an amount not to exceed $500,000,to provide Medi-Cal Specialty mental health services,for the period July 1,2024 through June 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Contract will result in annual budgeted expenditures of up to $500,000 and will be funded 100% by Federal Medi-Cal revenues. BACKGROUND: This Contract meets the social needs of the County’s population by providing mental health services for preschoolers with measurable delays in interpersonal,social/emotional,language and cognitive development, and for children who are at risk for such delays,including abused,developmentally delayed,Seriously Emotionally Disturbed (SED)and environmentally deprived children who do not meet the criteria for any categorical funding source for services.The County has been contracting with Alternative Family Services,Inc. since December 2007. This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities:Welfare and Institution Code, §5600 et seq.(The Bronzan McCorquodale Act);California Code of Regulations (“CCR”),Title 9,§523 et seq. (Community Mental Health Services)and California Government Code §§26227 and 31000.Health Services Personnel approved this Contract to ensure no conflicts with labor relations.Contractor currently cooperates and participates in BHSD’s Quality Management Program which consists of quality improvement activities to improve the quality of care,services and member experience.Cooperation includes collection and evaluation of performance measurement data and participation in the organization’s clinical and service measure Quality CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2826,Version:1 performance measurement data and participation in the organization’s clinical and service measure Quality Improvement Programs.Per Administrative Bulletin 600.3 the Department has posted a continuous Request for Qualifications and maintains a current qualified list of vendors at all times. On June 27,2023,the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #74-317-25,with Alternative Family Services, Inc.,in an amount not to exceed $1,503,682 for the provision of Multidimensional Treatment Foster Care (MTFC) services for SED children and their families for the period from July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024. Approval of Contract #74-317-26 will allow the Contractor to continue providing services through June 30, 2025. The delay of this Contract was due to ongoing negotiations between the Contractor and the Department. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved,SED children within Contra Costa County will have reduced access to mental health services as the county solicits and engages an alternative contractor. CHILDREN’S IMPACT STATEMENT: This program supports the following Board of Supervisors’community outcomes:“Children Ready for and Succeeding in School”;“Families that are Safe,Stable,and Nurturing”;and “Communities that are Safe and Provide a High Quality of Life for Children and Families”.Expected program outcomes include an increase in positive social and emotional development as measured by the Child and Adolescent Functional Assessment Scale (CAFAS). CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2827 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/23/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Martinez Unified School District, in an amount not to exceed $213,154 to provide Behavioral Health Services Act Prevention and Early Intervention Services for under-served and at-risk students for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. (100% Behavioral Health Services Act) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #74-373-15 with Martinez Unified School District ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute on behalf of the County Contract #74-373-15 with Martinez Unified School District (MUSD), an educational institution, in an amount not to exceed $213,154, to provide Behavioral Health Services Act (BHSA) prevention and early intervention (PEI) for underserved and at-risk students for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Contract will result in annual expenditures of up to $213,154 and will be funded as budgeted by the department in FY 2024-25 100% by BHSA funds. BACKGROUND: This Contract meets the social needs of County’s population by providing BHSA PEI services. Contractor has been providing these services since July 1, 2009. The CORE (Community Optimizing Resources for Empowerment) Program is facilitated through MUSD and Vicente Martinez High School (VMHS) to assist Contra Costa Behavioral Health (CCBH) in implementing the CORE Program at Vicente Martinez High School and Briones School provides underserved, at-risk students in grades 9-12 with a variety of integrated experiential and leadership opportunities that promote mental health wellness in ways that are non-stigmatizing and non-discriminatory. These opportunities support social, emotional and behavioral health, career exposure and personal and academic growth while also encouraging, linking and increasing student access to direct mental health services. This provider was selected in collaboration with community stakeholder advisory bodies and was approved as part of the comprehensive BHSA three-Year Plan as required by State regulation. Providers interested in CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2827,Version:1 providing specialized services were invited proactively to participate in program development and offered the opportunity to submit interest at dozens of publicly noticed meetings. The services and vendors were identified in the formal Three-Year plan was approved on the following schedule that was noticed to the public and approved by the Board on August 1, 2023. The Three-Year Plan was posted for public comment from June 5, 2023 through July 5, 2023, there was a Public Hearing at the Mental Health Commission meeting on July 5, 2023, and it was approved by the Board of Supervisors on August 1, 2023. On November 7, 2023, the Board of Supervisors executed Contract #74-373-14 with MUSD in an amount not to exceed $204,956 to provide BHSA PEI services, for the period July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024. Approval of Contract #74-373-15 will allow the contractor to continue providing BHSA PEI services, through June 30, 2025. This Contract is late due to prolonged budget negotiations between the Division and Contractor. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved, there would be no program to provide integrated experiential and leadership opportunities to continuation high school students to promote mental health wellness in ways that are non- stigmatizing and non-discriminatory. CHILDREN’S IMPACT STATEMENT: This Contract supports the following Board of Supervisors’ community outcomes: “Children Ready For and Succeeding in School”; “Families that are Safe, Stable, and Nurturing”; and “Communities that are Safe and Provide a High Quality of Life for Children and Families”. Expected program outcomes include an increase in positive social and emotional development as measured by the Child and Adolescent Functional Assessment Scale (CAFAS) and placement at discharge to a lower level of care. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2828 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/23/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Lincoln, in an amount not to exceed $8,905,330 to provide Medi-Cal Specialty mental health services for seriously emotionally disturbed children and their families for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. (95% Federal Medi-Cal; 5% Antioch Unified School District/Pittsburg Unified School District) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Directors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #24-925-42 with Lincoln ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director,or designee,to execute on behalf of the County Contract #24-925-42 with Lincoln,a non-profit corporation,in an amount not to exceed $8,905,330 to provide Medi-Cal Specialty mental health services for Seriously Emotionally Disturbed (SED)children and their families, for the period from July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Contract will result in annual budgeted expenditures of up to $8,905,330 and will be funded by 95% Federal Medi-Cal and 5% Antioch Unified School District/Pittsburg Unified School District revenues. BACKGROUND: This Contract meets the social needs of the County’s population by providing therapy,medication support,case management,outreach,and crisis intervention services to elementary and junior high aged students in East Contra Costa County in order to reduce the need for out-of-home placements.The County has been contracting with Lincoln since January 1998. This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities:Welfare and Institutions Code, §5600 et seq.(The Bronzan McCorquodale Act);California Code of Regulations (“CCR”),Title 9,§523 et seq.(Community Mental Health Services)and California Government Code §§26227 and 31000.The Behavioral Health’s Quality Management,Utilization Management and Contract Monitor Staff meet on a regular basis to ensure monitoring and performance measures in the contract are upheld.This Contract was approved by Health Services Personnel to ensure there is no conflict with labor relations.Per Administrative Bulletin 600.3 the Department has posted a continuous Request for Qualifications and maintains a current CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2828,Version:1 qualified list of vendors at all times. On June 27,2023,the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #24-925-41 with Lincoln,in an amount not to exceed $9,068,043,to provide Medi-Cal Specialty mental health services for SED children and their families including multi-dimensional family treatment program and school-based services,for the period July 1,2023 through June 30, 2024. Approval of Contract #24-925-42 will allow the Contractor to continue providing services through June 30, 2025. The delay of this Contract was due to ongoing negotiations between the Contractor and the Department. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved,there will be fewer Medi-Cal Specialty mental health services available for SED children in East Contra Costa County as the County solicits and engages an alternative contractor. CHILDREN’S IMPACT STATEMENT: This program supports the following Board of Supervisors’community outcomes:“Children Ready For and Succeeding in School”;“Families that are Safe,Stable,and Nurturing”;and “Communities that are Safe and Provide a High Quality of Life for Children and Families”.Expected program outcomes include an increase in positive social and emotional development as measured by the Child and Adolescent Functional Assessment Scale (CAFAS). CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2829 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/25/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract amendment with Health Management Associates, Inc., to increase the payment limit by $270,270 to an amount not to exceed $1,039,540 and extend the term through December 31, 2024 for additional consultation and technical assistance to the Contra Costa Health Plan as the acting interim Chief Operating Officer. (100% Contra Costa Health Plan Enterprise Fund II) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Amendment/Extension #77-639-1 with Health Management Associates, Inc. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute on behalf of the County Contract Amendment/Extension #77-639-1 with Health Management Associates, Inc., a corporation, effective October 1, 2024, to increase the payment limit by $270,270, from $768,784 to a new payment limit of $1,039,054 and to extend the termination date from October 22, 2024 to December 31, 2024 for additional consultation and technical assistance to the Contra Costa Health Plan (CCHP) as the acting interim Chief Operating Officer (COO). FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Amendment will result in additional annual expenditures of up to $270,270 and will be funded as budgeted by the department in FY 2024-25, by 100% Contra Costa Enterprise Fund II. (No rate increase) BACKGROUND: This contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities: California Government Code §§ 26227 and 31000. Health Services Personnel approved this Contract to ensure no conflicts with labor relations. This Contract allows the contractor to provide an interim CCHP COO to act as the appointed Compliance, Fraud, Waste & Abuse Officer, oversee of the daily health plan operation to including clinical and non-clinical departments, ensure new benefits of CalAIM are integrated into CCHP’s operations, and address and respond to California Department of Healthcare Services (DHCS) and California Department of Managed Health Care Corrective Action Plans. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2829,Version:1 All Medi-Cal Managed Care Plans, which includes CCHP, are required to have a COO. CCHP begin its search for the COO in August 2023 in which Health Management Associates, Inc. had the most qualified, experienced, trained candidate as outlined in the Medi-Cal Managed Care contract with DHCS. This contractor was approved by the Public Works Department Purchasing Agent on October 4, 2023. On December 5, 2023, the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #77-639 with Health Management Associates, Inc., in an amount of $768,784 to provide consultation and technical assistance to the Contra Costa Health Plan for the period Octoer 23, 2023 through October 22, 2024. Approval of Amendment/Extension #77-639-1 will allow CCHP to meet the mandate required by DHCS for the COO services, through December 31, 2024. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this amendment is not approved, the CCHP will not be in compliance with DHCS requirements. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2830 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/25/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract amendment with the State of California, Department of Health Care Services, to modify the capitation payment rates for Medi-Cal State Supported services with no change in the term through December 31, 2023. (No County match) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Amendment #29-784-14 with the State of California, Department of Health Care Services ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute on behalf of the County, Standard Agreement (Amendment) #29-784-14 (State #22-20462, A-02) with the State of California, Department of Health Care Services (DHCS), to modify the Capitation Payment rates for Medi-Cal State Supported services, with no change in the original term of January 1, 2023 through December 31, 2023. FISCAL IMPACT: DHCS shall pay County an amount to be calculated based on enrollment of Medi-Cal members each month. No County match required. BACKGROUND: Since 2003, through the Local Initiative Program, the State of California has given the Contra Costa Health Plan (CCHP) funds necessary to provide health care service to it eligible Medi-Cal recipients within the scope of Medi-Cal benefits. These services were formerly provided under Standard Agreement #29-772 and in 2006 were broken out under this new Amendment Agreement #29-784, for State supported services. On April 18, 2023, the Board of Supervisors approved of Standard Agreement #29-784-12 and Amendment #29 -784-13 to pay the County in accordance with the Capitation Payment rates for Medi-Cal State Supported services that are not approved for Federal funding, for the period January 1, 2023 through December 31, 2023. Approval of Standard Agreement (Amendment) #29-784-14 will allow the County to continue provide Medi- Cal State Supported services that are not approved for Federal Funding, through December 31, 2023. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2830,Version:1 CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this amendment is not approved, funding for continuous services to County Medi-Cal recipients will not be provided. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2831 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/25/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract amendment with the State of California, Department of Health Care Services, to update capitation rates for recipients of Medi-Cal Managed Care services with no change in the original amount payable of up to $317,472,000 or term through December 31, 2023. (No County match) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Standard Agreement (Amendment) #29-772-55 with the State of California, Department of Health Care Services ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute on behalf of the County Standard Agreement (Amendment) #29-772-55 (State #04-36067, A-43) with the State of California, Department of Health Care Services (DHCS), to amend Agreement #29-772-13 (as amended by subsequent amendments #29-772-14 through #29-772-54), to update capitation rates for recipients of Medi-Cal Managed care, with no change in the original amount payable of up to $317,472,000 or term of April 1, 2005 to December 31, 2023. FISCAL IMPACT: There is no change to the original amount payable to County for the Medi-Cal Managed Care Local Initiative Project. No County match required. BACKGROUND: The State has been contracting with the Health Services Department’s Contra Costa Health Plan to provide health care services to eligible Medi-Cal recipients within the scope of Medi-Cal benefits under the Medi-Cal Local Initiative Health Plan since February 1, 1997. On April 26, 2005, the Board of Supervisors approved Standard Agreement #29-772-13 with the State of California, DHCS, for the Medi-Cal Local Initiative Health Plan, for the period from April 1, 2005 through December 31, 2008. Subsequent amendments #29-772-14 through #29-772-54 have been issued by DHCS to amend Standard Agreement #29-772-13 to extend the term through December 31, 2023, add funds, adjust capitation rates and modify language. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2831,Version:1 Approval of this Standard Agreement (Amendment) #29-772-55 will update capitation rates for recipients of Medi-Cal Managed care, with no change in the original amount payable of up to $317,472,000 or term through December 31, 2023. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this amendment is not approved, the County will not be able to continue the Medi-Cal Managed Care Local Initiative Project. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2832 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/26/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Epic Care, in an amount not to exceed $2,300,000 to provide oncology and hematology services at Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2027. (100% Hospital Enterprise Fund I) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #26-684-9 with Epic Care ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director,or designee,to execute on behalf of the County Contract #26-684-9 with Epic Care,a corporation,in an amount not to exceed $2,300,000,to provide oncology and hematology services for Contra Costa Regional Medical Center (CCRMC)and Contra Costa Health Center patients, for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2027. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Contract will result in contractual service expenditures of up to $2,300,000 over a three-year period and will be funded 100% by Hospital Enterprise Fund I revenues. BACKGROUND: Due to limited number of specialty providers available within the community,CCRMC and Health Centers rely on contractors to provide necessary specialty health services to their patients.This contractor has been providing oncology and hematology services,for CCRMC patients since November 2010.This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities:California Government Code §§26227 and 31000;and Health and Safety Code §1451.Health Services Personnel approved this Contract to ensure no conflicts with labor relations in March 2023.Per Administrative Bulletin 600.3 CCRMC Physician services are exempt from Solicitation requirements.CCRMC’s Quality Management,Utilization Management and Contract Monitor staff meet on a regular basis to ensure monitoring and performance measures in the Contract are upheld. On July 27,2021,the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #26-684-8 with Epic Care,in an amount not to exceed $2,300,000,for the provision of oncology services for CCRMC and Health Center patients,for the CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2832,Version:1 period July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2024. Approval of Contract #26-684-9 will allow the Contractor to continue to provide oncology and hematology services through June 30,2027.This Contract was delayed due to negotiations between Division and Contractor. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If the Contract is not approved,certain specialized oncology and hematology services for CCRMC patients will not be provided and may cause a delay in services provided. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2833 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/26/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Gregory Barmé, M.D., in an amount not to exceed $630,000 to provide urology services at Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers for the period September 1, 2024 through August 31, 2026. (100% Hospital Enterprise Fund I) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #76-788-2 with Gregory Barmé, M.D. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director,or designee,to execute on behalf of County Contract #76-788-2 with Gregory Barmé,M.D.,an individual,in an amount not to exceed $630,000,to provide urology services at Contra Costa Regional Medical Center (CCRMC)and Contra Costa Health Centers,for the period September 1, 2024 through August 31, 2026. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Contract will result in contractual service expenditures of up to $630,000 over a two-year period and will be funded 100% by Hospital Enterprise Fund I revenues. BACKGROUND: Due to the limited number of specialty providers available within the community,CCRMC and Contra Costa Health Centers relies on contractors to provide necessary specialty health services to its patients.Contractor provides urology services including,but not limited to:clinic coverage,consultation,on-call coverage,and medical and surgical procedures.CCRMC has contracted with Dr.Barmé,for urology services since September 1,2022.This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities:California Government Code §§26227 and 31000;Health and Safety Code §1451.Health Services Personnel approved this Contract to ensure no conflicts with labor relations.Per Administrative Bulletin 600.3 CCRMC Physician services are exempt from Solicitation requirements. On September 12,2023,the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #76-788-1 with Gregory Barmé,M.D.,in the amount of $300,000,for the provision of urology services at CCRMC and Contra Costa Health Centers for the period September 1, 2023 through August 31, 2024. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2833,Version:1 Approval of Contract #76-788-2 will allow the contractor to continue to provide urology services at CCRMC and Contra Costa Health Centers through August 31, 2026. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved,the necessary specialty urology services needed for patient care will not be available or will create increased wait times due to the limited number of specialty providers available within the community. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2834 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/26/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Mental Health Connections, in an amount not to exceed $1,887,838 to provide community-based mental health support services for adults, including the operation of Putnam Peer Connection Centers and County’s Mental Health Service Provider Individualized Recovery Intensive Training program for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. (100% Behavioral Health Services Act) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #74-630-4 with Mental Health Connections ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute on behalf of the County Contract #74-630-4 with Mental Health Connections, a non-profit corporation, in an amount not to exceed $1,887,838, to provide community-based mental health support services to adults, including Putnam Peer Connection Centers, and the Service Provider Individualized Recovery Intensive Training (SPIRIT) program, for the period from July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Contract will result in annual service expenditures of up to $1,887,838 for FY 2024-25 and will be funded 100% by Behavioral Health Services Act (BHSA) funds. BACKGROUND: For a number of years, County contracted with Recovery Innovations, Inc. for the operation of Wellness and Recovery Centers in East, Central and West County, as well as, for the organization and operation of the SPIRIT program to provide training to clients interested in working with in the local mental health service delivery system. Mental Health Connections has provided these services to the County since July 1, 2021. This provider was selected in collaboration with community stakeholder advisory bodies and was approved as part of the comprehensive BHSA Three-Year Plan as required by State regulation. Providers interested in providing specialized services were invited proactively to participate in program development and offered the opportunity to submit interest at dozens of publicly noticed meetings. The services and vendors were identified in the formal Three-Year plan was approved on the following schedule that was noticed to the public and approved by the Board on August 1, 2023. The Three-Year Plan was posted for public comment from June 5, CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2834,Version:1 2023 through July 5, 2023, there was a Public Hearing at the Mental Health Commission meeting on July 5, 2023, and it was approved by the Board of Supervisors on August 1, 2023. On May 23, 2023, the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #74-630-3 with Mental Health Connections in the amount of $1,709,491 for the provision of community-based mental health support services including operation of Putnam Peer Connection Centers and the SPIRIT program for the period from July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024. Approval of Contract #74-630-4 will allow Contractor to continue providing community-based mental health support services to adults and the SPIRIT program, through June 30, 2025. This Contract is late due prolonged budget negotiations between the Division and Contractor. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved, the County’s adult mental health clients will not have access to services provided by this Contractor, leading to reduced levels of mental health support and training services throughout the County. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2835 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/26/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Contra Costa Pathology Associates, in an amount not to exceed $4,800,000 to provide outpatient laboratory testing services for Contra Costa Health Plan members and County recipients for the period September 1, 2024 through August 31, 2027. (100% Contra Costa Health Plan Enterprise Fund II) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #77-104-3 with Contra Costa Pathology Associates ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director,or designee,to execute on behalf of the County Contract #77-104-3 with Contra Costa Pathology Associates,a partnership,in an amount not to exceed $4,800,000,to provide outpatient laboratory testing services for Contra Costa Health Plan (CCHP)members and County recipients, for the period September 1, 2024 through August 31, 2027. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Contract will result in contractual service expenditures of up to $4,800,000 over a 3-year period and will be funded 100% by CCHP Enterprise Fund II revenues. BACKGROUND: CCHP has an obligation to provide certain outpatient laboratory testing services for its members under the terms of their Individual and Group Health Plan membership contracts with the County.This contractor has been a part of the CCHP Provider Network providing these services and fostering a deep understanding of the CCHP organizations mission,values,and long-term objectives since September 2017.This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities:California Government Code §§26227 and 31000; Health and Safety Code §1451.Health Services Personnel approved this Contract to ensure no conflicts with labor relations.Contractor currently cooperates with and participates in CCHP’s Quality Management Program which consists of quality improvement activities to improve the quality of care and services and member experience.Cooperation includes collection and evaluation of performance measurement data and participation in the organization’s clinical and service measure Quality Improvement Programs. The nature of the outpatient laboratory testing services needed is complex and requires seamless coordination, CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2835,Version:1 The nature of the outpatient laboratory testing services needed is complex and requires seamless coordination, integration and collaboration with existing programs and systems.This Contract renewal will maintain comprehensive area coverage for the entire CCHP membership and meet the Knox-Keene Act,time and distance mandate required by the State of California Department of Managed Health Care (DMHC)services. These contracted services were determined to be exempt from Administrative Bulletin 600.3 solicitation requirements by the Public Works Department’s Purchasing Division. On November 2,2021,the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #77-104-2 with Contra Costa Pathology Associates,in an amount not to exceed $2,700,000,for the provision of outpatient laboratory testing services for CCHP members and County recipients, for the period September 1, 2021 through August 31, 2024. Approval of Contract #77-104-3 will allow the Contractor to continue providing outpatient laboratory testing services for CCHP members and County recipients through August 31, 2027. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved,certain outpatient laboratory testing services for CCHP members under the terms of their Individual and Group Health Plan membership Contracts with the County will not be provided and may cause a delay in services to CCHP members. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2836 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/26/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Butterfly Effects, LLC, in an amount not to exceed $600,000 to provide behavioral health treatment- applied behavior analysis services for Contra Costa Health Plan members and County recipients for the period October 1, 2024 through September 30, 2027. (100% Contra Costa Health Plan Enterprise Fund II) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #77-119-4 with Butterfly Effects, LLC ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director,or designee,to execute on behalf of the County Contract #77-119-4 with Butterfly Effects,LLC,a limited liability company,in an amount not to exceed $600,000,to provide behavioral health treatment (BHT)-applied behavior analysis (ABA)services for Contra Costa Health Plan (CCHP)members and County recipients,for the period October 1,2024 through September 30, 2027. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Contract will result in contractual service expenditures of up to $600,000 over a 3-year period and will be funded 100% by CCHP Enterprise Fund II revenues. BACKGROUND: CCHP has an obligation to provide certain BHT-ABA services for its members under the terms of their Individual and Group Health Plan membership Contracts with the County.This contractor has been a part of the CCHP Provider Network providing these services and fostering a deep understanding of the CCHP organizations mission,values,and long-term objectives since October 1,2017 This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities:California Government Code §§26227 and 31000;Health and Safety Code §1451.Health Services Personnel approved this contract to ensure no conflicts with labor relations.Contractor currently cooperates with and participates in CCHP’s Quality Management Program which consists of quality improvement activities to improve the quality of care and services and member experience.Cooperation includes collection and evaluation of performance measurement data and participation in the organization’s clinical and service measure Quality Improvement Programs. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2836,Version:1 The nature of the BHT-ABA services needed is complex and requires seamless coordination,integration and collaboration with existing programs and systems.This Contract renewal will maintain comprehensive area coverage for the entire CCHP membership and meet the Knox-Keene Act,time and distance mandate required by the State of California Department of Managed Health Care (DMHC)services.These contracted services were determined to be exempt from Administrative Bulletin 600.3 solicitation requirements by the Public Works Department’s Purchasing Division. In October 2021,the County Administrator approved and the Purchasing Services Manager executed Contract #77-119-3 with Butterfly Effects,LLC,in an amount not to exceed $60,000,for the provision of ABA services for CCHP members and County recipients, for the period October 1, 2021 through September 30, 2024. Approval of Contract #77-119-4 will allow the Contractor to continue providing BHT-ABA services for CCHP members and County recipients through September 30, 2027. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved,certain BHT-ABA services for CCHP members under the terms of their Individual and Group Health Plan membership Contracts with the County will not be provided and may cause a delay in services to CCHP members. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2837 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/26/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Crestwood Behavioral Health, Inc., in an amount not to exceed $5,641,715 to provide sub-acute skilled nursing care services for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. (100% Mental Health Realignment) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #24-933-49 with Crestwood Behavioral Health, Inc. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director,or designee,to execute on behalf of the County Contract #24-933-49 with Crestwood Behavioral Health,Inc.,a corporation,in an amount not to exceed $5,641,715, to provide subacute skilled nursing care services for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Contract will result in annual budgeted expenditures of up to $5,641,715 and will be funded 100% by Mental Health Realignment revenues. BACKGROUND: The Behavioral Health Services Department has been contracting with Crestwood Behavioral Health,Inc., since July 1997 to provide sub-acute skilled nursing care for County’s Severely and Persistently Mentally Ill (SPMI)and neurobehavioral clients.This Contractor has been a longstanding partner since January 1998 in treating Contra Costa clients,fostering a deep understanding of the County’s mission,values and long-term objectives. This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities:Welfare and Institutions Code, §5600 et seq.(The Bronzan McCorquodale Act);California Code of Regulations (“CCR”),Title 9,§523 et seq.(Community Mental Health Services)and California Government Code §§26227 and 31000.The Behavioral Health’s Quality Management,Utilization Management and Contract Monitor Staff meet on a regular basis to ensure monitoring and performance measures in the contract are upheld.This Contract was approved by Health Services Personnel to ensure there is no conflict with labor relations.Per Administrative Bulletin 600.3 the Department has posted a continuous Request for Qualifications and maintains a current CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2837,Version:1 qualified list of vendors at all times. On January 12,2023,the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #24-933-48 with Crestwood Behavioral Health,Inc.,in an amount not to exceed $4,647,844,to provide sub-acute skilled nursing care for SPMI and Neurobehavioral clients for the period from July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024. Approval of Contract #24-933-49 will allow the Contractor to continue providing services through June 30, 2025.This Contract includes mutual indemnification to hold harmless both parties for any claims arising out of the performance of this Contract.The delay of this Contract was due to ongoing negotiations between the Contractor and the Department. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If the Contract is not approved,a significant number of mentally ill young adults and adults may be displaced to the community without the mental health services they require. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2838 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/26/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Psynergy Programs, Inc., in an amount not to exceed $347,265 to provide Medi-Cal Specialty mental health services for adults diagnosed with Serious Mental Illness and Serious Persistent Mental Illness for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. (100% Federal Medi-Cal) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #74-475-169(2) with Psynergy Programs, Inc. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director,or designee,to execute on behalf of the County Contract #74-475-169(2)with Psynergy Programs,Inc.,a corporation,in an amount not to exceed $347,265,to provide Medi-Cal Specialty mental health services for adults diagnosed with Serious Mental Illness (SMI)and Serious Persistent Mental Illness (SPMI), for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Contract will result in annual budgeted expenditures of up to $347,265 for FY 2024-25 and will be funded 100% by Federal Medi-Cal revenues. BACKGROUND: This Contract meets the social needs of County’s population by providing Medi-Cal specialty mental health services focusing on adults diagnosed with SMI and SPMI who are stepping down from the Institutes for Mental Diseases (IMD) levels of care and transitioning back into the community. This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities:Welfare and Institutions Code, §5600 et seq.(The Bronzan McCorquodale Act);California Code of Regulations (“CCR”),Title 9,§523 et seq.(Community Mental Health Services)and California Government Code §§26227 and 31000.The Behavioral Health’s Quality Management,Utilization Management and Contract Monitor Staff meet on a regular basis to ensure monitoring and performance measures in the contract are upheld.This Contract was approved by Health Services Personnel to ensure there is no conflict with labor relations.Per Administrative Bulletin 600.3 the Department has posted a continuous Request for Qualifications and maintains a current qualified list of vendors at all times. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2838,Version:1 On October 17,2023,the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #74-475-169 with Psynergy Programs,Inc., in an amount not to exceed $263,562,to provide Medi-Cal Specialty mental health services for adults diagnosed with SMI and SPMI, for the period July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024. Approval of Contract #74-475-169(2)will allow the Contractor to continue providing services through June 30, 2025. The delay of this Contract was due to ongoing negotiations between the Contractor and the Department. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved,there will be fewer Medi-Cal Specialty mental health services available for adults diagnosed with SMI or SPMI as the County solicits and engages an alternative contractor. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2839 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/26/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with EMBRACE, in an amount not to exceed $503,150 to provide non Medi-Cal mental health services and functional family therapy for seriously emotionally disturbed adolescents and their families for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. (70% Probation; 30% Mental Health Realignment) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #74-526-16 with EMBRACE ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director,or designee,to execute on behalf of the County Contract #74-526-16 with EMBRACE,a non-profit corporation,in an amount not to exceed $503,150,to provide non Medi-Cal mental health services and Functional Family Therapy (FFT)for Seriously Emotionally Disturbed (SED) adolescents and their families for the period from July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Contract will result in annual budgeted expenditures of up to $503,150 and will be funded by 70% Probation Non Medi-Cal and 30% Mental Health Realignment revenues. BACKGROUND: This Contract meets the social needs of County’s population by providing mental health services,including individual,group,and family counseling,assessment,case management,and rehabilitation support services to SED adolescents who are involved in the Juvenile Justice System.Contractor has been a longstanding partner in treating Contra Costa clients since 2016,fostering a deep understanding of our organization’s mission,value, and long-term objectives. This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities:Welfare and Institutions Code, §5600 et seq.(The Bronzan McCorquodale Act);California Code of Regulations (“CCR”),Title 9,§523 et seq.(Community Mental Health Services)and California Government Code §§26227 and 31000.The Behavioral Health’s Quality Management,Utilization Management and Contract Monitor Staff meet on a regular basis to ensure monitoring and performance measures in the contract are upheld.This Contract was approved by Health Services Personnel to ensure there is no conflict with labor relations.Per Administrative Bulletin 600.3 the Department has posted a continuous Request for Qualifications and maintains a current CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2839,Version:1 Bulletin 600.3 the Department has posted a continuous Request for Qualifications and maintains a current qualified list of vendors at all times. On December 12,2023,the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #74-526-15 with EMBRACE,in the amount of $503,150,for the provision of non-Medi-Cal mental health services and FFT for SED adolescents and their families for the period from July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024. Approval of Contract #74-526-16 will allow the Contractor to continue providing services through June 30, 2025. The delay of this Contract was due to ongoing negotiations between the Contractor and the Department. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved,SED adolescents will not have access to Contractor’s non Medi-Cal mental health services which may result in a reduction of services and placement in higher levels of care. CHILDREN’S IMPACT STATEMENT: This program supports the following Board of Supervisors’community outcomes:“Children Ready For and Succeeding in School”;“Families that are Safe,Stable,and Nurturing”;and “Communities that are Safe and Provide a High Quality of Life for Children and Families”.Expected program outcomes include an increase in positive social and emotional development as measured by the Child and Adolescent Functional Assessment Scale (CAFAS). CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2874 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/26/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Alvarez & Marsal Healthcare Industry Group, LLC, in an amount not to exceed $6,139,200 to provide an interim Chief Finance Officer, and necessary engagement staffing, to manage all aspects of the day-to-day financial operations and related support activities of Contra Costa Health Services for the period October 1, 2024 through September 30, 2025. (20% Hospital Enterprise Fund I; 80% Contra Costa Health Plan Enterprise Fund II) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #23-861 with Alvarez & Marsal Healthcare Industry Group, LLC ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Alvarez & Marsal Healthcare Industry Group, LLC, a limited liability company, in an amount not to exceed $6,139,200 to provide interim Chief Financial Officer services, including management of all day-to-day financial operations of the Health Services department, subject to County Counsel and County Administrator approval, for the period October 1, 2024 through September 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Contract will result in an amount not to exceed $6,139,200 and will be funded as budgeted by the department (20% Enterprise Fund I, 80% Enterprise Fund II). BACKGROUND: Engagement History On January 16, 2024, the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #23-837 with Alvarez & Marsal Healthcare Industry Group, LLC (A&M), for the period January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2026, in an amount not to exceed $400,000 to provide consultation and technical assistance to Contra Costa Health Services (CCHS) regarding health system transformation including, but not limited to, strategy development, payment reform, selected leader compensation review, and an assessment of human resources processes. To date, CCHS has expended $399,894 and the following work has been completed related to this initial scope CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 4 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2874,Version:1 of service: ·Strategy development that included briefings on health industry trends, an assessment of their impacts on CCHS and its partners, and actionable recommendations on sustainability, growth, and payment reform. ·CCHS leader compensation review for the Contra Costa Health Plan Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chief Operating Officer (COO) positions, as well as the Contra Costa Regional Medical Center CEO. ·An assessment of County Human Resources and CCHS Personnel to support specific workforce management needs of the health department. On June 25, 2024, the Board of Supervisors approved the contract amendment with A&M, for an additional $1,800,000 with no change to the original contract period January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2026, in a total amount not to exceed $2,200,000, for additional consultation and technical assistance, specifically related to support for organizational structure planning, an assessment of Contra Costa Health Plan (CCHP) and review of the CCHP contracted Enhanced Care Management program, and an assessment of CCHS finance operations. To date, CCHS has expended $977,657 and the following work has been completed related to this amended scope of service: ·An assessment of current administrative structures and organizational transformation activities that has examined areas of Finance, Information Technology, Compliance, Capital Planning, and Quality. ·A review CCHP’s contracted Enhanced Care Management program. ·An assessment of CCHS Finance operations and recommendations to improve effectiveness and transparency. Initial Findings of Financial Assessment Current work related to the assessment of CCHS financial operations is ongoing; however, A&M has provided initial findings revealing an urgent need for CCHS to: ·Undertake an effort to transform its finance function as a service organization and collaborative partner to executive and operational leadership, including the Board of Supervisors. ·Empower its operational leaders by developing their financial acumen and positioning them to be accountable for performance. ·Promote collaboration among departmental finance functions and take a “best practice” approach to standardize common processes. ·Ensure leaders within the Finance and IT functions collaborate to modernize manual financial processes. Scheduled Retirement of Current CFO/COO These opportunities to enhance transparency, streamline financial operations, and modernize systems require an immediate need for executive financial leadership to steer the organization through a critical transition period with the scheduled retirement of the current CFO/COO occurring at the end of the CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 4 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2874,Version:1 calendar year. Despite a national executive search conducted by a leading healthcare executive recruiting firm, CCHS efforts to hire a new CFO have been unsuccessful over the past year. This challenge may stem from two primary factors, 1) the compensation package may be insufficient to attract an experienced executive capable of managing a complex health system that includes both a hospital and a health plan; 2) the current structure of responsibilities under the CFO does not align with industry norms, making it difficult to find a successor with credentials to meet the needs of the County. Specifically, the current structure includes a single CFO with oversight over traditional County functions such as behavioral health, environmental health, public health, hazardous materials etc. as well as additional enterprise functions such as the Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and the Contra Costa Health Plan, a Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) operated by the County. It is important to note that the current position also operates as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) for certain Health Services department functions. As such, the interim findings from A&M recommend uncoupling the CFO/COO roles and to bring in an interim CFO along with a team of executive finance personnel resources to manage daily financial operations and drive the organizational transformation efforts required of CCHS. This includes CFO oversight and management of the Contra Costa Regional Medical Center (CCRMC) and Contra Costa Health Plan (CCHP). Interim CFO Solicitation Following receipt of the initial findings and recommendations from A&M, CCHS solicited a proposal from A&M to provide the required interim CFO duties for the period of one year. A&M provided a scope of service to provide interim CFO services, including: ·Providing leadership to finance and accounting staff employed by the CCHS and manage all aspects of the day-to-day operations and support activities of the CCHS finance function as well as help identify issues and opportunities within the departments reporting directly to the CFO. ·Assisting in developing appropriate financial reporting packages for County and CCHS leadership. ·Assisting CCHS in assessing the current skills, staffing and organization of the finance function and make recommendations to leadership to enhance support of the department’s objectives. ·Assessing the financial operations of various CCHS function areas and implement process improvements to enhance reporting and decision support functions as appropriate. ·Assessing current reporting tools and methodologies and assist with enhancements to improve timeliness and efficiency of reporting. The estimated cost of this engagement is $6,139,200 based on the following breakdown: Project Expected Hours Total Expected Fees Interim CFO 2,080 $1,716,000 Engagement Personnel – Director level 2,080 $1,300,000 Engagement Personnel – Senior Associate level 2,080 $1,123,200 Total Estimated Fees – Core Team $4,139,200 Potential Supplemental Fees $2,000,000 Total Estimated Fees $6,139,200 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 3 of 4 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2874,Version:1 Project Expected Hours Total Expected Fees Interim CFO 2,080 $1,716,000 Engagement Personnel – Director level 2,080 $1,300,000 Engagement Personnel – Senior Associate level 2,080 $1,123,200 Total Estimated Fees – Core Team $4,139,200 Potential Supplemental Fees $2,000,000 Total Estimated Fees $6,139,200 In addition, A&M has provided detailed hourly rates for personnel that may be assigned to the positions above or additional A&M personnel that may be needed for supplemental tasks requested by the department. A summary of the hourly rate schedule is below: Managing Director $825 Senior Director $700 Director $625 Associates - Sr. Associate $475-$550 Analyst – Staff $300 Today’s action requests that the Board of Supervisors authorize CCHS to enter a new contract for interim CFO services for the period October 1, 2024, through September 30, 2025. CCHS will continue to provide updates to the Board of Supervisors as process improvements are made to the CCHS finance function as well as updates to the organizational structure and search for a permanent CFO. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this contract is not approved, Contra Costa Health may not be able to provide strategic leadership to support existing finance operations as the current CFO/COO has announced his retirement. Additionally, CCH cannot strengthen and enhance its finance functions to more efficiently support its operations, meet its future challenges and advance the organization’s mission to deliver high- quality healthcare services. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 4 of 4 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2845 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/26/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Edward Lau, M.D., in an amount not to exceed $355,000 to provide outpatient psychiatric care services to mentally ill adults in East Contra Costa County for the period September 1, 2024 through August 31, 2025. (50% Mental Health Realignment; 50% Federal Medi-Cal) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #74-448-14 with Edward Lau, M.D. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director,or designee,to execute on behalf of the County Contract #74-448-14 with Edward Lau,M.D.,an individual,in an amount not to exceed $355,000,to provide outpatient psychiatric care services to mentally ill older adults in East Contra Costa County,for the period from September 1, 2024 through August 31, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Contract will result in budgeted annual expenditures of up to $355,000 and will be funded 50% by Mental Health Realignment Fund and 50% Federal Medi-Cal rvenues. BACKGROUND: This Contract meets the social needs of County’s population by providing psychiatric services including,but not limited to:diagnosing,counseling,evaluating,medication management and providing medical and psychiatric therapeutic treatment for mentally ill older adults in East Contra Costa County.This Contractor has been providing outpatient psychiatric care services since September 1, 2012. This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities:Welfare and Institutions Code, §5600 et seq.(The Bronzan McCorquodale Act);California Code of Regulations (“CCR”),Title 9,§523 et seq.(Community Mental Health Services)and California Government Code §§26227 and 31000.The Behavioral Health’s Quality Management,Utilization Management and Contract Monitor Staff meet on a regular basis to ensure monitoring and performance measures in the contract are upheld.This Contract was approved by Health Services Personnel to ensure there is no conflict with labor relations.Per Administrative Bulletin 600.3 the Contractor provides physician services and is exempt from solicitation requirements. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2845,Version:1 On July 18,2023,the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #74-448-13 with Edward Lau,M.D.,in an amount not to exceed $351,436 to provide outpatient psychiatric care to mentally ill adults in East Costa County for the period from September 1, 2023 through August 31, 2024. Approval of Contract #74-448-14 will allow Contractor to continue providing psychiatric services through August 31, 2025. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved,the necessary psychiatric services needed for patient care will not be available or will create increased wait times due to the limited number of specialty providers available within the community. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2846 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/26/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Horizon Services, Incorporated, in an amount not to exceed $329,726 to provide drug use prevention and treatment services to County residents for the period August 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. (100% Drug Medi-Cal) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #74-713 with Horizon Services, Incorporated ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director,or designee,to execute on behalf of the County Contract #74-713 with Horizon Services,Incorporated,a non-profit corporation,in an amount not to exceed $329,726 to provide drug use prevention and treatment services to County residents,for the period August 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Contract will result in annual budgeted expenditures of up to $329,726 and will be funded 100% by Drug Medi-Cal revenues. BACKGROUND: This Contract meets the social needs of the County’s population by providing specialized substance abuse treatment and prevention programs to help clients to achieve and maintain sobriety and to experience the associated benefits of self-sufficiency,family reunification,cessation of criminal activity and productive engagement in the community.Contractor shall provide,operate,and administer drug use prevention and treatment program services as certified by the State of California must operate under the terms and conditions of the Drug Medi-Cal Organized Delivery System (DMC-ODS)and must be provided in its facility(ies) referenced in County Health Services Alcohol and Other Drugs (AODS) Department’s Work Plan. This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities:California Government Code §§26227 and 31000.Per Administrative Bulletin 600.3 the Department has posted a continuous Request for Qualifications and maintains a current qualified list of vendors at all times.This Contract was approved by Health Services Personnel to ensure there is no conflict with labor relations.The Behavioral Health’s Quality Management,Utilization Management and Contract Monitor Staff meet on a regular basis to ensure monitoring CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2846,Version:1 Management,Utilization Management and Contract Monitor Staff meet on a regular basis to ensure monitoring and performance measures in the Contract are upheld. Under new Contract #74-713,the Contractor will provide drug use prevention and treatment services to County residents, for the period August 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved,County residents will not receive drug use prevention and treatment program services from Contractor, resulting in an overall reduction of services to a community at risk for incarceration. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2847 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/26/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Ujima Family Recovery Services, in an amount not to exceed $241,598 to provide contingency management services for County Medi-Cal patients with substance use disorders for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. (96% Drug Medi-Cal; 4% American Rescue Plan Act) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #74-663-2 with Ujima Family Recovery Services ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director,or designee,to execute on behalf of the County Contract #74-663-2 with Ujima Family Recovery Services,a non-profit corporation,in an amount not to exceed $241,598 to provide contingency management services for County Medi-Cal patients with substance use disorders (SUD), for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Contract will result in annual budgeted expenditures of up to $241,598 and will be funded by 96% Drug Medi-Cal and 4% American Rescue Plan Act revenues. BACKGROUND: The County has been contracting with Ujima Family Recovery Services since January 2023 to provide contingency management services for County Medi-Cal patients with SUD,including SUD prevention and treatment program services as certified by the State of California,operate under the terms and conditions of the Drug Medi-Cal Organized Delivery System (DMC-ODS)and must be provided in its facility(ies)referenced in County Health Services Alcohol and Other Drugs (AODS) Department’s Work Plan. This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities:California Government Code §§26227 and 31000.This Contractor was approved by the Public Works Department’s Purchasing Division on July 1,2024.This Contract was approved by Health Services Personnel to ensure there is no conflict with labor relations.The Behavioral Health’s Quality Management,Utilization Management and Contract Monitor Staff meet on a regular basis to ensure monitoring and performance measures in the Contract are upheld. In July 2023,the County Administrator approved and the Purchasing Services Manager executed Contract #74- CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2847,Version:1 In July 2023,the County Administrator approved and the Purchasing Services Manager executed Contract #74- 663-1 with Ujima Family Recovery Services,in an amount no to exceed $42,733,to provide contingency management services for County Medi-Cal patients with SUD,for the period from July 1,2023 through June 30, 2024. Approval of Contract #74-663-2 will allow the Contractor to continue providing services through June 30, 2025. The delay of this Contract was due to on-going negotiations between the Division and the Contractor. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved,County Medi-Cal residents will not receive the specialized substance abuse treatment services needed to provide them an opportunity to achieve sobriety and recover from the effects of alcohol and other drug use, become self-sufficient, and return to their families as productive individuals. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2848 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/26/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with American Hospice and Home Health Care Services, Inc., in an amount not to exceed $900,000 to provide home health care and hospice services for Contra Costa Health Plan members and County recipients for the period September 1, 2024 through August 31, 2027. (100% Contra Costa Health Plan Enterprise Fund II) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #77-103-4 with American Hospice and Home Health Care Services, Inc. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director,or designee,to execute,on behalf of the County Contract #77-103-4 with American Hospice and Home Health Care Services,Inc.,a corporation,in an amount not to exceed $900,000,to provide home health care and hospice services for Contra Costa Health Plan (CCHP) members and County recipients for the period September 1, 2024 through August 31, 2027. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Contract will result in contractual service expenditures of up to $900,000 over a three-year period and will be funded 100% by CCHP Enterprise Fund II revenues. BACKGROUND: CCHP has an obligation to provide certain home health care and hospice services for its members under the terms of their Individual and Group Health Plan membership contracts with the County.Home health care services include but are not limited to intermittent skilled nursing,therapeutic and rehabilitative care in patients’residence.Hospice care focuses on the care,comfort,and quality of life of a person with a serious illness who is approaching the end of life.Hospice services involve a team led by a physician.This team includes Contractor’s nurses and other health care professionals,including physical,occupational,respiratory and speech therapists.This Contractor has been a part of the CCHP Provider Network providing these services and fostering a deep understanding of the CCHP organizations mission,values,and long-term objectives since September 2017. This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities:California Government Code §§26227 and 31000;Health and Safety Code §1451.Health Services Personnel approved this Contract to CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2848,Version:1 §§26227 and 31000;Health and Safety Code §1451.Health Services Personnel approved this Contract to ensure no conflicts with labor relations.Contractor currently cooperates and participates in CCHP’s Quality Management Program which consists of quality improvement activities to improve the quality of care,services and member experience.Cooperation includes collection and evaluation of performance measurement data and participation in the organization’s clinical and service measure Quality Improvement Programs.These contracted services were determined to be exempt from Administrative Bulletin 600.3 solicitation requirements by the Public Works Department’s Purchasing Division. On November 2,2021,the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #77-103-3 with American Hospice and Home Health Care Services,Inc.,in an amount not to exceed $900,000,for the provision of home health care and hospice services for CCHP members and County recipients for the period September 1,2021 through August 31, 2024. Approval of Contract #77-103-4 will allow the Contractor to continue to provide home health care and hospice services for CCHP members and County recipients through August 31, 2027. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved,certain home health care and hospice services for CCHP members under the terms of their Individual and Group Health Plan membership contracts with the County will not be provided and may cause a delay in services to CCHP members. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2849 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/26/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with YWCA Contra Costa/Sacramento, in an amount not to exceed $450,000 to provide mental health services to recipients of the CalWORKs Program and their children, including individual, group and family collateral counseling, case management, and medication management services to reduce barriers to employment for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. (100% Substance Abuse Mental Health Works) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #74-559-8 with YWCA of Contra Costa/Sacramento ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director,or designee,to execute on behalf of the County Contract #74-559-8 with YWCA Contra Costa/Sacramento,a non-profit corporation,in an amount not to exceed $450,000,to provide mental health services to recipients of the CalWORKs Program and their children, including individual,group and family collateral counseling,case management,and medication management services to reduce barriers to employment, for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Contract will result in annual budgeted expenditures of up to $450,000 and will be funded 100% by Substance Abuse Mental Health Works (SAMHWORKS) revenues. BACKGROUND: The County has been contracting with YWCA Contra Costa/Sacramento since July 2018 to provide mental health services to recipients of the CalWORKs Program and their children who have been screened as having behavioral health,substance abuse and/or mental health needs severe enough to impede their ability to participate in Welfare to Work Activities. This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities:Welfare and Institutions Code §§5600,et seq.(The Bronzan McCorquodale Act);California Code of Regulations (“CCR”),Title 9,§§523,et seq.(Community Mental Health Services);California Government Code §§26227 and 31000.The Behavioral Health’s Quality Management,Utilization Management and Contract Monitor Staff meet on a regular basis to ensure monitoring and performance measures in the contract are upheld.This Contract was approved by Health Services Personnel to ensure there is no conflict with labor relations.Per Administrative Bulletin 600.3 the CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2849,Version:1 Services Personnel to ensure there is no conflict with labor relations.Per Administrative Bulletin 600.3 the Department has posted a continuous Request for Qualifications and maintains a current qualified list of vendors at all times. On October 17,2023,the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #74-559-6 with YWCA of Contra Costa/Sacramento,in an amount not to exceed $250,000,for the provision of mental health services to recipients of the CalWORKs Program and their children,including individual,group and family collateral counseling,case management,and medication management services to reduce barriers to employment for the period July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024. On March 19,2024,the Board of Supervisors approved Amendment Agreement #74-559-7 with YWCA of Contra Costa/Sacramento,effective March 1,2024,to increase the payment limit to a new payment limit of $450,000, for additional services, with no change in the term through June 30, 2024. Approval of Contract #74-559-8 allows the Contractor to continue providing mental health services through June 30,2025.Delay in processing this Contract is due to ongoing negotiations between the Department and Contractor. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved,CalWORKs recipients will not have sufficient access to mental health services as needed. CHILDREN’S IMPACT STATEMENT: This program supports the following Board of Supervisors’community outcomes:“Families that are safe, stable and nurturing.”Expected program outcome is increased number of CalWORKs participants ready to return to the labor force and earn income after they and their families receive mental health services under this contract. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2850 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/26/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Thomas B. Hargrave, III, M.D., in an amount not to exceed $1,800,000 to provide gastroenterology services at Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers for the period September 1, 2024 through August 31, 2027. (100% Hospital Enterprise Fund I) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #26-911-34 with Thomas B. Hargrave, III, M.D. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director,or designee,to execute on behalf of County Contract #26-911-34 with Thomas B.Hargrave,III,M.D.,an individual,in an amount not to exceed $1,800,000,to provide gastroenterology services at Contra Costa Regional Medical Center (CCRMC)and Contra Costa Health Centers, for the period September 1, 2024 through August 31, 2027. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Contract will result in annual budgeted expenditures of up to $1,800,000 over a three-year period and will be funded as budgeted 100% by Hospital Enterprise Fund I revenues. BACKGROUND: Due to the limited number of specialty providers available within the community,CCRMC and Contra Costa Health Centers rely on contracts to provide necessary gastroenterology specialty health services to their patients.These services may include:clinic coverage,consultation,training,medical and/or surgical procedures and on-call coverage.CCRMC has contracted with Dr.Hargrave,to provide gastroenterology services since December 1992. This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities:California Government Code §§26227 and 31000;Health and Safety Code §1451.Health Services Personnel approved this Contract to ensure no conflicts with labor relations.CCRMC’s Quality Management,Utilization Management and Contract Monitor Staff meet on a regular basis to ensure monitoring and performance measures in the Contract are upheld.Per Administrative Bulletin 600.3 CCRMC Physician services are exempt from Solicitation requirements. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2850,Version:1 On June 22,2021,the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #26-911-33 with Thomas B.Hargrave,III, M.D.,in an amount not to exceed $1,040,000,for the provision of gastroenterology services at CCRMC and Contra Costa Health Centers for the period from September 1, 2021 through August 31, 2023. On July 13,2021,the Board of Supervisors approved to rescind the prior Board action of June 22,2021 (C.138),which pertained to Contract #26-911-33 with Thomas B.Hargrave,III,M.D.,in an amount not to exceed $1,575,000,for the provision of gastroenterology services at CCRMC and Contra Costa Health Centers for the period September 1,2021 through August 31,2024.This Board action rescinded that incorrect Board Order (C.138)and allowed the Department to renew the Contract with a payment limit of $1,575,000 over a three-year period through August 31, 2024. Approval of Contract #26-911-34 will allow the Contractor to continue to provide gastroenterology services through August 31, 2027. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved,the necessary specialty gastroenterology services needed for patient care will not be available or will create increased wait times due to the limited number of specialty providers available within the community. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2851 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/27/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Adapt: A Behavioral Collective, Inc., in an amount not to exceed $6,900,000 to provide behavioral health treatment, applied behavior analysis and comprehensive diagnostic evaluation services to Contra Costa Health Plan members and County recipients for the period September 1, 2024 through August 31, 2027. (100% Contra Costa Health Plan Enterprise Fund II) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #77-246-3 with Adapt: A Behavioral Collective, Inc. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director,or designee,to execute on behalf of the County Contract #77-246-3 with Adapt:A Behavioral Collective,Inc.,a corporation,in an amount not to exceed $6,900,000,to provide Behavioral Health Treatment (BHT)-Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluations (CDE)and Behavioral Health Services -Therapy services for Contra Costa Health Plan (CCHP)members and County recipients for the period September 1,2024 through August 31, 2027. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Contract will result in contractual service expenditures of up to $6,900,000 over a three-year period and will be funded 100% by CCHP Enterprise Fund II revenues. BACKGROUND: CCHP has an obligation to provide certain specialized BHT-ABA,CDE and therapy health care services including,but not limited to;thorough reviews and assessments of a child’s development and behavior using national,evidence-based practice standards,treatment plans to improve the functioning of CCHP members with pervasive development disorder or autism under the terms of their Individual and Group Health Plan membership contracts with the County.This Contractor has been a member in the CCHP Provider Network providing BHT-ABA services and fostering a deep understanding of the CCHP organizations mission,values, and long-term objectives since September 2019. This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities:California Government Code §§26227 and 31000;and Health and Safety Code §1451.Health Services Personnel approved this contract to ensure there is no conflict with labor relations.Contractor currently cooperates with and participates in CCHP’sCONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2851,Version:1 ensure there is no conflict with labor relations.Contractor currently cooperates with and participates in CCHP’s Quality Management Program which consists of quality improvement activities to improve the quality of care and services and member experience.Cooperation includes collection and evaluation of performance measurement data and participation in the organization’s clinical and service measure Quality Improvement Programs.These contracted services were determined to be exempt from Administrative Bulletin 600.3 solicitation requirements by the Public Works Department’s Purchasing Division. On September 21,2021,the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #77-246-1 with Adapt:A Behavioral Collective,Inc.,in an amount not to exceed $375,000,for the provision of BHT-ABA services for CCHP members and County recipients, for the period September 1, 2021 through August 31, 2024. On March 22,2022,the Board of Supervisors approved Contract Amendment #77-246-2 with Adapt:A Behavioral Collective,Inc.,effective March 1,2022,to increase the payment limit by $75,000 to a new payment limit of $450,000 to provide additional BHT-ABA services including the addition of CDE services for CCHP members and County recipients,with no change in the original term of September 1,2021 through August 31, 2024. Approval of Contract #77-246-3 will allow the Contractor to continue to provide BHT-ABA,and CDE services including the addition of Behavioral Health Services -Therapy to CCHP members and County recipients through August 31, 2027. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved certain specialized Behavioral Health Treatment services for CCHP members under the terms of their Individual and Group Health Plan membership contracts with the County will not be provided and services may be delayed. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2852 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/27/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Verbal Behavior Associates, in an amount not to exceed $500,000 to provide behavioral health treatment and applied behavior analysis services to Contra Costa Health Plan members and County recipients for the period September 1, 2024 through August 31, 2026. (100% Contra Costa Health Plan Enterprise Fund II) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #77-702 with Verbal Behavior Associates ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director,or designee,to execute on behalf of the County Contract #77-702 with Verbal Behavior Associates,a corporation,in an amount not to exceed $500,000,to provide Behavioral Health Treatment (BHT)-Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)services for Contra Costa Health Plan (CCHP)members and County recipients for the period September 1,2024 through August 31, 2026. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Contract will result in contractual service expenditures of up to $500,000 over a two-year period and will be funded 100% by CCHP Enterprise Fund II revenues. BACKGROUND: CCHP has an obligation to provide certain specialized BHT-ABA health care services including,but not limited to;treatment plans to improve the functioning of CCHP members with pervasive development disorder or autism under the terms of their Individual and Group Health Plan membership contracts with the County.This Contractor will join the CCHP Provider Network to provide BHT-ABA services and foster a deep understanding of the CCHP organizations mission, values, and long-term objectives. This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities:California Government Code §§26227 and 31000;and Health and Safety Code §1451.Health Services Personnel approved this contract to ensure there is no conflict with labor relations.Contractor will cooperate with and participate in CCHP’s Quality Management Program which consists of quality improvement activities to improve the quality of care and services and member experience.Cooperation includes collection and evaluation of performance measurement data and participation in the organization’s clinical and service measure Quality ImprovementCONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2852,Version:1 measurement data and participation in the organization’s clinical and service measure Quality Improvement Programs.These contracted services were determined to be exempt from Administrative Bulletin 600.3 solicitation requirements by the Public Works Department’s Purchasing Division. Under new Contract #77-702 will allow the Contractor to provide BHT-ABA services for CCHP members and County recipients through August 31, 2026. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved certain specialized BHT-ABA for CCHP members under the terms of their Individual and Group Health Plan membership contracts with the County will not be provided and services may be delayed. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2853 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/27/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with AQuity Solutions, LLC, in an amount not to exceed $1,000,000 to provide medical coding services for Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers for the period October 1, 2024 through September 30, 2027. (100% Hospital Enterprise Fund I) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #26-779-9 with AQuity Solutions, LLC ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director,or designee,to execute on behalf of the County Contract #26-779-9 with AQuity Solutions,LLC,a limited liability company,in an amount not to exceed $1,000,000,to provide medical coding services for Contra Costa Regional Medical Center (CCRMC)and Contra Costa Health Centers for the period from October 1, 2024 through September 30, 2027. FISCAL IMPACT: This Contract will result in contractual service expenditures of up to $1,000,000 over a 3-year period and will be funded 100% by Hospital Enterprise Fund I revenues. BACKGROUND: This Contract meets the social needs of County’s population by providing medical coding,including coding inpatient and outpatient records,current and future revenue cycle outcomes,scanning and quality assurance for CCRMC and Contra Costa Health Centers,in accordance with the American Hospital Associate Coding Clinic and the American Medical Association.This Contractor has been providing coding services to County since October 1,2014.This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities:California Government Code §§26227 and 31000;and Health and Safety Code §1451.Health Services Personnel approved this contract to ensure there is no conflict with labor relations.CCRMC’s Quality Management, Utilization Management and Contract Monitor Staff meet to ensure monitoring and performance measures in the contract are upheld. The nature of these medical coding services needed is complex and requires seamless coordination,integration, and collaboration with existing programs,systems,and personnel.AQuity Solutions,LLC is familiar with the County’s specific requirements to help ensure a smoother implementation and delivery process.This Contractor CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2853,Version:1 County’s specific requirements to help ensure a smoother implementation and delivery process.This Contractor has been approved by the Public Works Department’s Purchasing Division on June 4, 2024. On September 7,2021,the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #26-779-7 with AQuity Solutions,LLC,in an amount not to exceed $1,000,000,for the provision of medical coding services at CCRMC and Contra Costa Health Centers for the period from October 1, 2021 through September 30, 2024. On July 11,2023,the Board of Supervisors approved Amendment Agreement #26-779-8 with AQuity Solutions,LLC,effective July 1,2023,to increase the payment limit by $360,000 to a new payment limit of $1,360,000 for additional medical coding services in support of Behavioral Health Services (BHS)EPIC® electronic claims initiative,as mandated by CalAIM requirements,effective July 1,2023.The additional medical coding services increased utilization significantly therefore the increase in funding was requested by the BHS Division, with no change in the original term of October 1, 2021 through September 30, 2024. Approval of Contract #26-779-9 will allow the Contractor to continue to provide medical coding services through September 30, 2027. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved,County will not have access to Contractor’s services or meet regulatory requirements. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2854 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/27/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract amendment with Health Management Associates, Inc., to increase the payment limit by $250,000 to an amount not to exceed $850,000 and extend the term from September 30, 2024 to September 30, 2025 for actuarial consulting services for the Contra Costa Health Plan. (100% Costa Health Plan Enterprise Fund II) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Amendment/Extension #23-773-4 with Health Management Associates, Inc. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute on behalf of the County Contract Amendment/Extension Agreement #23-773-4 with Health Management Associates, Inc., a corporation, effective September 30, 2024, to amend Contract #23-773-2 (as amended by #23-773-3), to increase the payment limit by $250,000, from $600,000 to a new payment limit of $850,000 and extend the termination date from September 30, 2024 to September 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this amendment will result in additional annual expenditures of up to $250,000 and will be funded by 100% Contra Costa Health Plan Enterprise Fund II as budgeted by the department in FY 2024-25. (Rate increase) BACKGROUND: Health Management Associates, Inc has been providing actuarial services to the Contra Costa Health Plan (CCHP) since October 2022. The contractor’s services include analysis of CCHP historical claims data to determine the required Incurred But Not Reported reserves (IBNR), assist in the completion of the annual Rate Development Template (RDT) deliverable to the State and provide comprehensive analysis of premium rating files from the State. On August 15, 2023, the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #23-773-2 with Health Management Associates, Inc., in an amount not to exceed $300,000 to provide actuarial consulting services for the Contra Costa Health Plan, for the period from October 1, 2023 through September 30, 2024. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2854,Version:1 On February 27, 2024, the Board of Supervisors approved Amendment Agreement #23-773-3 to increase the payment limit by $300,000 from $300,000 to a new payment limit of $600,000 with no change in the term of October 1, 2023 through September 30, 2024. Approval of Contract Amendment/Extension Agreement #23-773-4 will allow the contractor to provide actuarial consulting services related to the State CalAIM and a Single Plan Medi-Cal Model in Contra Costa County, through September 30, 2025. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this amendment is not approved, CCHP will not have the actuarial services required to meet State requirements with regard to CalAIM. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2855 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/27/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee to execute a contract with Dicom Systems Inc., in an amount not to exceed $30,000 for diagnostic imaging software, maintenance and support for Contra Costa Health’s Information Technology Systems Unit for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2027. (100% Hospital Enterprise Fund I) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Rescind Prior Board Action Pertaining to Contracted Services with Dicom Systems Inc. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: RESCIND Board action of August 13,2024 (C.78)which pertained to a contract with Dicom Systems Inc.;and APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director,or designee,to execute on behalf of the County a Master Purchase and License Agreement containing mutual indemnification with Dicom Systems Inc. (DCMSYS),a corporation,in an amount not to exceed $30,000,for diagnostic imaging system software, maintenance and support for Contra Costa Health’s Information Technology Systems Unit (CCH IT)for the period from July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2027. FISCAL IMPACT: This Contract will result in contractual service expenditures of up to $30,000 over a 3-year period and will be funded 100% by Hospital Enterprise Fund I revenues. BACKGROUND: This Contract meets the needs of the County by providing diagnostic imaging system software,maintenance, and support.In 2018,Contra Costa Health (CCH)IT procured DCMSYS Rapid Router hardware and software to enhance support for the CCH Diagnostic Imaging Department's Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS)file management.The DCMSYS software establishes an imaging sharing hub,facilitating the integration of various medical sites and creating a unified platform with a single work list for all.Under this action,the parties will execute a Master Purchase and License Agreement (MPLA)for continued software and support for CCH's Dicom system(s).DCMSYS’HL7 Router Unifier platform provides a rapid and secure solution for health data,allowing disparate systems to be integrated into a single framework centralized messaging hub for sharing health-related data,allowing for a Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1196 (HIPAA)compliant secure platform to manage and backup all imaging files.This system can operate with different end devices as an image-sharing hub and facilitate the integration of various medical CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2855,Version:1 operate with different end devices as an image-sharing hub and facilitate the integration of various medical imaging devices utilized with CCH's radiology enterprise.This Contract supports CCH in continuing the use of the DCMSYS Unifier to manage DCMSYS imaging objects securely and in compliance with HIPAA regulations.This contractor has been approved by the Public Works Department’s Purchasing Division on March 26,2024.A summary of service contract deliverables,including measurable outcomes required of the vendor to be monitored by the department in compliance with Section III(B)(7)of the Purchasing Policy include County’s use of the software under the license grant,and access to maintenance and support.This Contract was approved by Health Services Personnel to ensure there is no conflict with labor relations. Under this Contract #23-847,the parties will execute an MPLA for CCH IT’s access to DCMSYS Unifier system.Under the MPLA,DCMSYS liability is limited to the amount County has paid to DCMSYS in the twelve months preceding the claim except for DCMSYS’S indemnification obligations under the MPLA or claims arising from a breach of County data.Under the MPLA,the County is obligated to indemnify DCMSYS against claims arising from County’s use of the products,County’s breach of the MPLA,and gross negligence or fraud of County. On August 13,2024,the Board of Supervisors approved C.78 pertaining to Contract #23-847,however,the term on the Board Order was incorrect.This Board Order will rescind that incorrect Board Order and allow the Department to renew for the period effective July 1,2024,through June 30,2027.This will allow the Contractor to be paid for diagnostic imaging system software,maintenance and support Contra Costa Health’s Information Technology Systems Unit (CCH IT),through June 30,2027.The department is requesting a retroactive term for this renewal due to a delay in contract negotiation between the parties,while DCMSYS continued to provide diagnostic imaging system software, maintenance and support. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this contract is not approved,CCH IT will lose access to DCMSYS’Unifier and its ability to integrate health data with disparate end devices.Relying on alternative sources would introduce risks and potential gaps in service quality, which are untenable given the critical nature of patient care. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2856 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/27/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Stanford Health Care (dba SHC Reference Laboratory), in the amount of $20,000 to provide outside clinical laboratory services at Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers for the period September 1, 2024 through August 31, 2027. (100% Hospital Enterprise Fund I) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #26-749-14 with Stanford Health Care (dba SHC Reference Laboratory) ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute Contract #26-749-14 with Stanford Health Center (dba SHC Reference Laboratory), a non-profit corporation, in the amount not to exceed $20,000 to provide outside clinical laboratory services for Contra Costa Regional Medical Center (CCRMC) and Contra Costa Health Centers for the period September 1, 2024 through August 31, 2027. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Contract will result in contractual expenditures of up to $20,000 over a 3-year period as budgeted by the department and funded 100% by Hospital Enterprise Fund I. BACKGROUND: CCRMC and Contra Costa Health Centers have an obligation to provide specialized outside clinical laboratory testing services for tests that are rarely requested and require special equipment which CCRMC does not have onsite. County contracts with outside contractors to provide these specialized services which may include, but is not limited to, the analyses in the areas of clinical chemistry, hematology, serology, microbiology, cytogenetics, immunology, endocrinology, toxicology (non-chain of custody), histology, virology, and cytology. This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities: California Government Code §§ 26227 and 31000; Health and Safety Code § 1451. Health Services Personnel approved this Contract to ensure no conflicts with labor relations. CCRMC’s Quality Management, Utilization Management and Contract Monitor Staff meet on a regular basis to ensure monitoring and performance measures in the contract are upheld. This contract is under $25,000 and exempt from solicitation requirements per Administrative Bulletin CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2856,Version:1 600.3. In July 2024, the Purchasing Services Manager executed Contract #26-749-13 with (dba SHC Reference Laboratory) in the amount not to exceed $500 to provide outside laboratory services at CCRMC and Contra Costa Health Centers for the period July 1, 2024 through August 31, 2024. Approval of Contract #26-749-14 will allow Contractor to continue to provide outside clinical laboratory services for CCRMC and Contra Costa Health Centers requiring specialized testing equipment through August 31, 2027. This Contract includes mutual indemnification to defend, save, hold harmless and indemnify both parties for any claims arising out of the performance of this Contract. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved, CCRMC and Contra Costa Health Centers will not have access to Contractor’s specialty outside laboratory testing services, which may delay services to patients. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2857 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/26/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director, or designee, to execute a contract with RDA Consulting, SPC (dba Resource Development Associates), in an amount not to exceed $216,520 to develop and conduct capacity and equity assessments to meet the California Advancing and Innovating Medi-Cal Justice Involved Initiative mandate for the period July 1, 2024 through December 31, 2025. (100% California Advancing and Innovating Medi-Cal Providing Access and Transforming Health) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Contract #76-884 with RDA Consulting, SPC (dba Resource Development Associates) ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Health Services Director,or designee,to execute on behalf of the County Contract #76-884 with RDA Consulting,SPC,(dba Resource Development Associates)a corporation,in an amount not to exceed $216,520,to provide consultation and technical assistance in developing and conducting capacity and equity assessments to meet the California Advancing and Innovating Medi-Cal (CalAIM)Justice Involved Initiative (JII) mandate, for the period from July 1, 2024 through December 31, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Contract will result in contractual service expenditures of up to $216,520 and will be funded 100% by CalAIM Providing Access and Transforming Health (PATH) revenues. BACKGROUND: Contractor will support Conta Costa Health (CCH)in developing and conducting a detention health equity and Medi-Cal re-entry services capacity assessment in order to meet CalAIM JII mandate.Contractor was selected based on their experience with the CalAIM JII existing contract with the County Probation Department. Contractor’s unique performance factors include previous CalAIM JII collaboration with CCH,knowledge of CalAIM JII requirements,data research,analysis abilities and project management skills that make them well- equipped to meet the mandated requirements of the initiative. This Contract is entered into under and subject to the following legal authorities:California Government Code §§26227 and 31000.CCH Detention Facility’s Quality Management,Utilization Management and Contract Monitor Staff meet on a regular basis to ensure monitoring and performance measures in the contract are upheld.This Contract was approved by Health Services Personnel to ensure there is no conflict with labor CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2857,Version:1 upheld.This Contract was approved by Health Services Personnel to ensure there is no conflict with labor relations.This Contractor was approved by the Public Works Department’s Purchasing Division on July 15, 2024. Approval of this new Contract #76-884 allows the Contractor to provide consultation and technical assistance services, through December 31, 2025. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this Contract is not approved,CCH Detention Facilities will not meet the requirements of the CalAIM JII mandate. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2858 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/6/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute on behalf of the Health Services Director, a purchase order with Computacenter United States Inc. in an amount not to exceed $788,815 to purchase Dell hardware and support services. (100% Hospital Enterprise Fund I) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Purchase Order with Computacenter United States Inc. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute on behalf of the Health Services Director, a purchase order with Computacenter United States Inc. in an amount not to exceed $788,815 to purchase Dell hardware and support services. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this action will result in a one-time expenditure of up to $788,815 and will be funded by Hospital Enterprise Fund I revenues. BACKGROUND: The current Contra Costa Health (CCH) information technology infrastructure is built upon Dell servers. Our infrastructure servers that currently serve Data Warehouse databases are outdated and present significant challenges in meeting the compliance standards of Epic, CCH Electronic Health Record (EHR) software, and handling the high demand for database reporting. The current servers struggle to handle the growing volume of data and the increasing number of database queries. This results in slow response times, delayed reporting, and an inability to scale future growth. Upgrading these servers is essential to ensure efficient, secure, and compliant operations. On February 14th, 2017, the Board of Supervisors approved agenda item C.51 to execute a Customer Purchase Agreement for Products and Services, a Product Schedule, and a Services Schedule with Dell Marketing L.P., in an amount not to exceed $239,250 for the purchase of data storage hardware, professional services, and support for the period of February 15, 2017 through March 31, 2018, and annually renewing thereafter. The Dell Marketing L.P. and Dell’s Customer Purchase Agreement also governs this purchase. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2858,Version:1 This purchase will leverage cooperative agreements established by the State of California for discounted pricing. This includes access to Dell Marketing L.P. products through the State of California Participating Addendum Number 7-23-70-55-01.15 and NASPO ValuePoint Master Agreement 23026. Computacenter United States Inc., as the authorized reseller under this agreement, will facilitate the sales services. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: The need to replace our outdated Epic Data Warehouse infrastructure servers is clear and urgent. Upgrading will not only ensure compliance with CCH EHR software requirements, but also enhance our ability to handle the high demand for database reporting. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2859 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/8/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute on behalf of the Health Services Department, a purchase order amendment with Abbott Laboratories to increase the payment limit by $500,000 to an amount not to exceed $2,200,000 to purchase testing reagents and kits for Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C antibody screening at the Contra Costa Public Health Laboratory with no change in the term ending December 31, 2024. (100% Hospital Enterprise Fund I) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Amendment to Purchase Order #20985 with Abbott Laboratories ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute on behalf of the Health Services Director, an amendment to purchase order #20985 with Abbott Laboratories to increase the payment limit by $500,000 to a new payment limit not to exceed $2,200,000 to purchase testing reagents and kits for HIV, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C screening at the Contra Costa Public Health Laboratory with no change to the original term of October 1, 2020 through December 31, 2024. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this action will result in an additional $500,000 in expenditures for testing reagents and kits and will be funded by the Hospital Enterprise Fund 1 revenues. BACKGROUND: Contra Costa County Public Health Laboratory currently provides HIV and Hepatitis antibody testing for all Contra Costa Health clinic patients for routine care, including Contra Costa Regional Medical Center. On November 17, 2020, the Board of Supervisors approved agenda item C.41 to execute a purchase order (#20985) with Abbott Laboratories, in the amount of $800,000 for the period from October 1, 2020 through September 30, 2022 to purchase Hepatitis testing kits and reagents. On October 4, 2022, the Board of Supervisors approved agenda item C.53 to execute an amendment to purchase order #20985 with Abbott Laboratories to increase the payment limit to a new total not to exceed $1,700,000 to purchase testing reagents for Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and COVID-19 antibody CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2859,Version:1 screening and extend the term through December 31, 2024. This purchase order amendment would allow the Public Health Laboratory to continue purchasing antibody screening test kits for the Abbott Architect instrument and continue to meet the increasing demand for HIV and Hepatitis testing kits and reagents as well as allow for additional programs to be added to the testing menu. Abbott Laboratories is the sole provider of the full menu of readily available reagents for the Abbott Architect instrument and the laboratory has used the Architect instrument, as well as an earlier version, since 2012. On August 7, 2024, the Purchasing Agent approved the continued use of Abbott Laboratories. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this action is not approved, the Contra Costa Public Health Laboratory would not be able to purchase HIV and Hepatitis antibody screening kits for patient care. Additionally, invoices would not be paid in a timely manner. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2860 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/8/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute on behalf of the Health Services Director, a purchase order amendment with Agiliti Health, Inc. to increase the payment limit by $500,000 to an amount not to exceed $2,500,000 to provide rental equipment at Contra Costa Health with no change in the term ending September 30, 2024. (100% Hospital Enterprise Fund I) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Amendment to Purchase Order with Agiliti Health, Inc. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute on behalf of the Health Services Director, an amendment to purchase order #26455 with Agiliti Health, Inc., to increase the payment limit by $500,000 to a new payment limit of $2,500,000 to provide rental equipment at Contra Costa Health (CCH), with no change to the original term of October 1, 2022 through September 30, 2024. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this action will result in an additional $500,000 in expenditures and will be funded by the Hospital Enterprise Fund I revenues. BACKGROUND: Agiliti Health, Inc. is a nationwide company that specializes in the management, maintenance, and rental of medical equipment. They partner with healthcare providers to deliver a range of services aimed at improving the efficiency, availability, and performance of medical equipment, ultimately enhancing patient care and operational efficiency. Since 2007, the County has contracted with Agiliti Health, Inc. for the rental of medical equipment and devices, such as specialty hospital beds, infusion pumps, and other medical equipment and devices. On October 11, 2022, the Board of Supervisors approved agenda item C.35 to execute a purchase order (#26455) with Agiliti Health, Inc. in the amount of $2,000,000 to provide rental equipment at Contra Costa Regional Medical Center (CCRMC) for the period of October 1, 2022, through September 30, 2024. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2860,Version:1 Agiliti Health, Inc. is a member of the Vizient Group Purchasing Organization (GPO), which means that CCRMC will now receive rebates. This will further solidify our shared dedication to delivering high-quality, cost-effective healthcare solutions. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this action is not approved, CCRMC will not have access to this vendor’s rental medical equipment and devices, which are necessary to carry out CCRMC medical operations. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2861 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:7/26/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute on behalf of the Health Services Director, a purchase order with Bluebeam, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $11,200, and Bluebeam’s General Terms and Conditions of Use for the purchase of construction blueprint software, for the period July 24, 2024 through July 23, 2025. (100% Environmental Health Fees) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Purchase Order with Bluebeam, Inc. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent or designee to execute on behalf of the Health Services Director (1) a purchase order with Bluebeam, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $11,200, and (2) Bluebeam’s General Terms and Conditions of Use for the purchase of construction blueprint software, for the period from July 24, 2024, through July 23, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this action will result in a one-time software expenditure of up to $11,200 and will be funded by Environmental Health Fees. BACKGROUND: Contra Costa Health (CCH) is currently utilizing an old version of Studio Prime Software that provides the ability to upload construction blueprints online to Bluebeam Drawings. Bluebeam is moving to a new version of this software making it necessary to upgrade to the new software version. This will allow the department the continued use of the Bluebeam web portal to review and edit blueprints submitted to it by the public electronically. CCH IT received a quote from Bluebeam, Inc. on June 27, 2023. Since then, the department has been working closely with the vendor and County Counsel to resolve discrepancy items within the vendors Terms & Conditions. These items were successfully resolved on July 24, 2024. The uninterrupted use of Bluebeam’s Studio Prime software and its software maintenance services is integral to allow the County the ability to continue to effectively review and edit customers’ construction blueprints. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2861,Version:1 The agreement limits Bluebeam’s liability under the agreement to the amount paid by the county for subscription fees in the twelve (12) months preceding any claim. Under the agreement, the County is obligated to indemnify Bluebeam Inc. from and against any claim brought by a third party against Bluebeam arising from County’s content in the Bluebeam system violating the intellectual property rights of a third party. All disputes arising out of the agreement are to be resolved through binding arbitration. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: The existing licenses are set to expire. If new licenses are not purchased the department will no longer be able to access Bluebeam’s blueprint software and lose the ability to efficiently review and edit client’s construction blueprints. This will cause delays in delivering service to clients as these blueprints will need to be reviewed and edited by hand. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2862 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/26/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute on behalf of the Health Services Director, (1) a purchase order with Progress Software Corporation in an amount not to exceed $9,496, and (2) an End User License Agreement with Progress Software Corporation for a web application to monitor services for the network and server team for the period August 8, 2024 through August 8, 2025. (100% Hospital Enterprise Fund I) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Purchase Order with Progress Software Corporation ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute on behalf of the Health Services Director, (1) a purchase order with Progress Software Corporation in an amount not to exceed $9,496, and (2) an End User License Agreement (EULA) with Progress Software Corporation for a web application to monitor services for the network and server team for the period from August 8, 2024, to August 8, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this action will result in expenditures of up to $9,496 and will be funded by Hospital Enterprise Fund I revenues. BACKGROUND: The web application is designed for the network and server teams to monitor services effectively. It continuously checks the heartbeat of network connectivity for switches, servers, applications, and other critical components. This tool is essential for the network team to ensure reliable connectivity and operational status as it alerts the network/server/data warehouse team of an application being down. Contra Costa Health (CCH) IT received a renewal request on May 31, 2024. Delays were encountered processing this request due to backlog in IT Procurement and issues receiving documentation from the vendor. IT Procurement is actively collaborating with the vendor and stakeholders to submit renewal requests at least 180 days in advance of expiration to prevent future delays. The Progress EULA obligates the County to indemnify Progress for County’s breach of the EULA or violation of applicable laws. Under the agreement Progress’ liability is limited to no more than the amount County has CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2862,Version:1 paid under the agreement in the 12 months preceding the claim. The EULA is governed by the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and the venue for resolving any claims arising out of the EULA is the courts of Massachusetts. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Failure to approve this purchase will impede CCH's Network/server/data warehouse teams to receive proactive notification of servers/applications being down and will make troubleshooting and resolution of problems a lot more difficult and slower. CCH has been utilizing WhatsUp Gold as on-premises software since 2020. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2863 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/19/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute on behalf of the Health Services Director, a purchase order with Interstate Waste Systems, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $80,667, and related agreement for the rental of a trash compactor for Contra Costa Health effective the date the agreement is signed and for five years thereafter. (100% Hospital Enterprise Fund I) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Purchase Order with Interstate Waste Systems, Inc. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute on behalf of the Health Services Director, a purchase order with Interstate Waste Systems, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $80,667, and rental agreement for a trash compactor for Contra Costa Health (CCH) effective the date the agreement is signed and for five years thereafter. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this action will result in expenditures of up to $80,667 over a five-year period and will be funded by Hospital Enterprise Fund I revenues. BACKGROUND: Interstate Waste Systems, Inc. also known as Interstate Compactor Rentals is a company that specializes in renting compactors, which are machines used to compress waste and recyclable materials into smaller, more manageable forms. These compactors are commonly used by businesses, municipalities, and other organizations to reduce the volume of waste, making it easier and more cost-effective to transport and dispose. Interstate Compactor Rentals has been providing full trash compactors and mechanical services to Contra Costa Regional Medical Center (CCRMC) and Health Centers for over five years. CCRMC would like to continue renting from Interstate Compactor Rentals. Interstate provides the main trash compactor for the hospital. Trash must be disposed of regularly to comply with Joint Commission and OSHA standards. The trash compactor is a valuable tool in hospital waste management, contributing to a safer, cleaner, and more efficient healthcare environment. This purchase will be made via sole source justification, for product and service continuity. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2863,Version:1 The agreement requires the County to indemnify, defend, and hold Interstate Compactor Rentals harmless from any and all claims. Approval of this request will enable Interstate Compactor Rental to supply a trash compactor for CCRMC, ensuring a safer, cleaner, and more efficient healthcare environment. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this purchase order is not approved, CCRMC will not comply with the Joint Commission and OHSA standards and will cause potential safety hazards, increased risk of infection, and possible penalties. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2864 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:7/19/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute on behalf of the Health Services Director, a Purchase Order with First DataBank, Inc.in an amount not to exceed $237,083, and an amendment to the License Agreement with First DataBank, Inc. to renew prescription medication software licenses for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. (100% Hospital Enterprise Fund I) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Purchase Order with First DataBank, Inc. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute on behalf of the Health Services Director, (1) a Purchase Order with First DataBank, Inc.in an amount not to exceed $237,083, and (2) the Tenth Amendment to License Agreement with First DataBank, Inc. to renew prescription medication software licenses for the period of July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this action will result in expenditures of up to $237,083 and will be funded by Hospital Enterprise Fund I revenues. BACKGROUND: Since 2011, Contra Costa Health (CCH) has utilized the First DataBank, Inc. drug ordering knowledge database (MedKnowledge) and software for physicians to quickly look-up and order drugs for patients. On November 28, 2023, Board of Supervisors approved item C.55 to execute an amendment to purchase order #23440 with First DataBank, Inc., to increase the payment limit to a new total of $652,974, with no change to the original term of July 1, 2021, through June 30, 2024, and (2) the Ninth Amendment to License Agreement with First DataBank, Inc. to procure additional prescription medication software licenses. The approval of this purchase order and Tenth Amendment is necessary to support CCH physicians in utilizing the MedKnowledge software for drug lookup and prescription ordering for patients. CCH IT received the procurement request for the renewal of First DataBank, Inc. prescription medication software license for Fiscal Year 24-2025 on April 16, 2026. Due to prolonged negotiations with the vendor, the CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2864,Version:1 submission was delayed. Procurement is actively collaborating with the vendor and stakeholders to submit renewal requests at least 180 days in advance of expiration to prevent future delays. Presently, First DataBank, Inc is the sole distributor of these software licenses and on May 22, 2024 the Purchasing Agent approved the continued use of First DataBank, Inc. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this action is not approved, CCHS physicians can risk patient lives by prescribing medication that may do more harm than good. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2865 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:7/25/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Auditor-Controller, or designee, to pay $33,600 to 340B Holdings, LLC for Sun Rx split billing subscription services for the period from August 1, 2023, through July 31, 2024, as recommended by the Heath Services Director. (100% Hospital Enterprise Fund I) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Payment to 340B Holdings, LLC for Services Rendered ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Auditor-Controller, or designee, to pay $33,600 to 340B Holdings, LLC for Sun Rx split billing subscription services for the period from August 1, 2023, through July 31, 2024, as recommended by the Heath Services Director. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this action will result in a one-time expenditure in an amount not to exceed $33,600 and will be funded by Hospital Enterprise Fund I revenues. BACKGROUND: SunRx split billing software verifies the accuracy of the price paid for each drug purchased and can audit our patient accounts against a database file developed exclusively by SunRx. This software application will incorporate split definition that will search previous invoices to see if items in the order have been previously purchased. It will inform all affected customers of HRSA’s changes and will adapt to all new regulations. CCRMC sent a cancellation request to SunRx so that the split billing subscription will not renew after July 31, 2024. The County is moving forward with a new offering and this software is no longer required. The vendor is entitled to payment for the reasonable value of its services under the equitable relief theory of quantum meruit. The theory provides that where a vendor has been asked to provide services without a valid purchase order, and the vendor does so to the benefit of the county, the vendor is entitled to recover the reasonable value of those services. The vendor has provided services at the request of the county after the original purchase order payment limit had been reached. The Department cannot pay the vendor for services rendered that exceed the purchase order limit. As such, the Department recommends that the Board authorize CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2865,Version:1 the Auditor-Controller to issue a one-time payment not to exceed $33,600 payable to 340B Holdings, LLC. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this action is not approved, the final invoice for split billing subscription through SunRx will be at risk of falling into past due status with the vendor. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2866 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/21/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Auditor-Controller, or designee, to pay an amount not to exceed $87,873 to Contra Costa Interfaith Transitional Housing, Inc. (dba Hope Solutions) for additional rapid re-housing and homeless prevention services for the period May 1, 2024 through June 30, 2024, as recommended by the Health Services Director. (100% Employment and Human Services Department Housing Disability Advocacy Program funds) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Payment for Services Provided by Contra Costa Interfaith Transitional Housing, Inc. (dba Hope Solutions) ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Auditor-Controller, to pay $87,873 to Contra Costa Interfaith Transitional Housing, Inc. (dba Hope Solutions), a non-profit corporation, for the provision of additional rapid re-housing and homeless prevention services for the period from May 1, 2024 through June 30, 2024. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this action will result in a one-time expenditure in an amount not to exceed $87,873 and will be funded 100% by Employment and Human Services Department (EHSD) Housing Disability Advocacy Program (HDAP) grant. BACKGROUND: County has been contracting with Contra Costa Interfaith Transitional Housing, Inc. (dba Hope Solutions) since July 2021 to provide homeless services for individuals who are at risk of or currently experiencing homelessness and referred by Employment and Human Services Department‘s (EHSD) Housing Disability Advocacy Program (HDAP). EHSD approves individuals who meet HDAP criteria and appear eligible to receive Social Security Income (SSI), Social Security Disability Income (SSDI), Veterans benefits, or Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI). Contractor houses up to seventy-two (72) homeless individuals referred by EHSD and assessed as having potential eligibility to any of the SSI/SSDI, veterans, or CAPI benefits. On March 22, 2022, the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #25-098 with Contra Costa Interfaith CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2866,Version:1 Transitional Housing, Inc. (dba Hope Solutions), in an amount not to exceed $2,013,806 to provide housing navigation support services to individuals who are experiencing homelessness or are at risk for homelessness for the period from July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2024. Due to a higher than expected need for re-housing subsidies for homeless residence, the Division is requesting payment be made to cover the services provided by the Contractor in good faith in the amount of $87,873. Contractor is entitled to payment for the reasonable value of their services under the equitable relief theory of quantum meruit. That theory provides that where a contractor has been asked to provide services without a valid contract, and the provider does so to the benefit of the County, the contractor is entitled to recover the reasonable value of those services. The Contractor has provided services at the request of the county after the original contract payment limit had been reached. The Department cannot pay contractor for services rendered that exceed the contract limits. As such, the Department recommends that the Board authorize the Auditor- Controller to issue a one-time payment not to exceed $87,873. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this payment is not approved, the Contractor will not be paid for services requested by County staff and provided by Contractor in good faith. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2867 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/27/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Auditor-Controller, or designee, to pay an amount not to exceed $101,674 to Psynergy Programs, Inc. for the provision of Medi-Cal Specialty Mental Health Services to adults diagnosed with serious mental illness and serious persistent mental illness for the period March 1, 2024 through June 30, 2024, as recommended by the Health Services Director. (100% Federal Medi-Cal) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Payment for Services Provided by Psynergy Programs, Inc. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Auditor-Controller,or designee,to pay $101,673.78 to Psynergy Programs, Inc.,a corporation,for the provision of Medi-Cal Specialty mental health services to adults diagnosed with Serious Mental Illness (SMI)and Serious Persistent Mental Illness (SPMI)that exceeded the contract payment limit and were provided in good faith for the period March 1, 2024 through June 30, 2024. FISCAL IMPACT: This retro payment in the amount of $101,673.78 is funded 100% by Federal Medi-Cal funds. BACKGROUND: This Contract meets the social needs of County’s population by providing Medi-Cal specialty mental health services focusing on adults diagnosed with SMI and SPMI who are stepping down from the Institutes for Mental Diseases (IMD)levels of care and transitioning back into the community.The Behavioral Health Services Division (BHSD)has been contracting with Psynergy Programs,Inc.,since July 2023 to provide Medi -Cal Specialty mental health services. On October 17,2023,the Board of Supervisors approved Contract #74-475-169 with Psynergy Programs,Inc., in an amount not to exceed $263,562,to provide Medi-Cal Specialty mental health services to adults diagnosed with SMI and SPMI for the period July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024. Due to a much higher anticipated level of Medi-Cal Specialty mental health services provided to adults diagnosed with SMI and SPMI,there are insufficient funds to cover the additional services provided by the Contractor in the amount of $101,673.78. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2867,Version:1 Therefore,the County has determined that Psynergy Programs,Inc.is entitled to payment for the reasonable value of their services under the equitable relief theory of quantum meruit.That theory provides that where a person has been asked to provide services without a valid contract,and the provider does so to the benefit of the recipient,the provider is entitled to recover the reasonable value of those services.The Contractor has provided services at the request of the County after the original contract payment limit had been reached.The Department cannot pay Contractor for services rendered that exceed the contract limits.As such,the Department recommends that the Board authorize the Auditor-Controller to issue a one-time payment not to exceed $101,673.78 to Psynergy Programs, Inc. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this request is not approved,Psynergy Programs,Inc.will not be paid for Medi-Cal Specialty mental health services provided outside of the contract payment limit rendered in good faith. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2868 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/27/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Auditor-Controller, or designee, to pay an amount not to exceed $44,618 to The Indigo Project, for the provision of consultation and technical assistance with regard to the Behavioral Healthcare Infrastructure Project for the period April 1, 2024 through May 31, 2024, as recommended by the Health Services Director. (100% Mental Health Services Act) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Payment for Services Provided by The Indigo Project ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Auditor-Controller,or designee,to pay $44,617.50 to The Indigo Project,a corporation,for the provision of consultation and technical assistance with regard to the Behavioral Healthcare Infrastructure Project that exceeded the contract payment limit and was provided in good faith for the period April 1, 2024 through May 31, 2024. FISCAL IMPACT: This retro payment in the amount of $44,617.50 is funded 100% by Mental Health Services Act funds. BACKGROUND: The Behavioral Health Services Division (BHSD)has been contracting with The Indigo Project since February 2022 to provide consultation,evaluation and technical assistance to BHSD to identify Behavioral Health infrastructure needs and gather community input to prepare for State funding. In August 2023,the County Administrator approved and the Purchasing Services Manager executed Contract #74-645-5 with The Indigo Project,in an amount not to exceed $200,000,to provide consultation and technical assistance with regard to the Behavioral Healthcare Infrastructure Project for the period May 1,2023 through May 31, 2024. Due to a much higher anticipated level of service needed to complete the Behavioral Healthcare Infrastructure Project,there are insufficient funds to cover the additional services provided by the Contractor in the amount of $44,617.50. Therefore,the County has determined that The Indigo Project is entitled to payment for the reasonable value of CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2868,Version:1 Therefore,the County has determined that The Indigo Project is entitled to payment for the reasonable value of their services under the equitable relief theory of quantum meruit.That theory provides that where a person has been asked to provide services without a valid contract,and the provider does so to the benefit of the recipient, the provider is entitled to recover the reasonable value of those services.The Contractor has provided services at the request of the county after the original contract payment limit had been reached.The Department cannot pay Contractor for services rendered that exceed the contract limits.As such,the Department recommends that the Board authorize the Auditor-Controller to issue a one-time payment not to exceed $44,617.50 to The Indigo Project. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this request is not approved,The Indigo Project will not be paid for services provided to BHSD outside of the contract payment limit rendered in good faith. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2869 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/19/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Auditor-Controller, or designee, to pay $43,220 to AGFA Healthcare Corporation for hardware and software services provided during the period April 1, 2024 through May 31, 2024, as recommended by the Heath Services Director. (100% Hospital Enterprise Fund I) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Payment for Services Provided by AGFA Healthcare Corporation ☐Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Auditor-Controller, or designee, to pay $43,220 to AGFA Healthcare Corporation for hardware and software services provided during the period from April 1, 2024, through May 31, 2024. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this action will result in expenditures of up to $43,220 and will be funded by Hospital Enterprise Fund 1 revenues. BACKGROUND: AGFA Circles of Care provides necessary service and maintenance support for the Health Centers. CCRMC & Health Centers utilize the AGFA Impax system for all diagnostic and cardiology images, the system provides high quality imaging for our patients and continuous image availability to careproviders. The maintenance services are governed by AGFA’s Service Maintenance Agreement Terms and Conditions executed on July 11, 2018. On January 9, 2024, the Board of Supervisors approved item C.40 to execute an amendment to purchase order #27920 with AGFA Healthcare Corporation, to increase the payment limit to a new total of $260,504 to renew hardware, software and maintenance services, with no change to the original term of April 1, 2023 through March 31, 2024. CCRMC sent a cancellation email request to AGFA Healthcare Corporation to terminate the service effective May 31, 2024. The April and May 2024 invoices are the last months of support received from AGFA Healthcare Corporation while the County provided written notice of termination to the vendor and transitioned CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2869,Version:1 off the platform. The County no longer requires hardware and software support for IMPAX/IDC. The vendor is entitled to payment for the reasonable value of its services under the equitable relief theory of quantum meruit. The theory provides that where a vendor has been asked to provide services without a valid purchase order, and the vendor does so to the benefit of the County, the vendor is entitled to recover the reasonable value of those services. The vendor has provided services at the request of the County after the original purchase order payment limit had been reached. The Department cannot pay the vendor for services rendered that exceed the purchase order limit. As such, the Department recommends that the Board authorize the Auditor-Controller to issue payment not to exceed $43,220 payable to AGFA Healthcare Corporation. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this action is not approved, the final invoices for hardware and software maintenance will be at risk of falling into past due status with the vendor. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2870 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/2/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:CONTINUE the emergency action originally taken by the Board of Supervisors on November 16, 1999, and most recently approved by the Board on July 9, 2024 regarding the issue of homelessness in Contra Costa County, as recommended by the Health Services Director. (No fiscal impact) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:CONTINUE EXTENSION OF EMERGENCY DECLARATION REGARDING HOMELESSNESS ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: CONTINUE the emergency action originally taken by the Board of Supervisors on November 16, 1999 regarding the issue of homelessness in Contra Costa County. FISCAL IMPACT: There is no fiscal impact for this action. BACKGROUND: On November 16, 1999, the Board of Supervisors declared a local emergency, pursuant to the provisions of Government Code Section 8630 on homelessness in Contra Costa County. Government Code Section 8630 requires that, for a body that meets weekly, the need to continue the emergency declaration be reviewed at least every 60 days until the local emergency is terminated. The Board of Supervisors last reviewed and continued the emergency declaration on July 9, 2024. With the continuing high number of homeless individuals and insufficient funding available to assist in sheltering all homeless individuals and families, the emergency situation still exists and it is, therefore, appropriate for the Board to continue the declaration of a local emergency regarding homelessness. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2870,Version:1 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2871 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/21/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:RATIFY the execution of a contract with the California Department of Public Health by the Health Services Director's designee to pay the County a fee based on client usage for the Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Assistance Program through December 31, 2025. (No County match) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Report Title:Agreement #78-062 with the California Department of Public Health ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: RATIFY the Health Services Director, or designee’s, execution of Standard Agreement #78-062 (#21-10967) with the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), to pay the County a fee based on client usage for the Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Assistance Program (PrEP-AP), for the period from January 1, 2022 through December 31, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this Agreement will allow CDPH to pay a per client fee for PrEP-AP services provided by County. No County funds are required. BACKGROUND: The California Health and Safety Code Section 121019 designates CDPH response for coordination activities related to HIV and AIDS. In order to reduce the incidents of HIV infection amount high-risk populations the PrEP-AP assist at risk individuals with PrEP-AP related medical costs and PrEP-AP related medical co-pays, deductible and drug costs not covered by client’s health issuance plan or manufacture’s assistance program for insured clients Public Health Division staff did not submit this item for appropriate approvals prior to execution. Therefore, the Division is asking that the Board of Supervisors ratify the action of the Public Health Director in signing this Agreement. Approval of this Agreement will allow the County to participate as a clinical provide in the PrEP-AP Provider Network, through December 31, 2025. The Agreement includes County’s promise to indemnify, defend and hold the State harmless for all claims and losses arising out of the County’s performance under the Agreement. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2871,Version:1 CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this contract is not approved, County will not receive the necessary funding to support the reduction in HIV infection in the community. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2840 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:9/3/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE placement of incumbent (Position #20031) to Step 4 of the Deputy County Administrator – Exempt (ADH1) salary range, with no change to the current anniversary date, effective August 16, 2024, as recommended by the County Administrator. (100% General Fund) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Monica Nino, County Administrator Report Title:Advanced Step Placement - Deputy County Administrator-Exempt (Position # 20031) ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE placement of incumbent (Position #20031) to the position of Deputy County Administrator - Exempt (ADH1) at Step 4 of the salary range, with no change to the current anniversary date, effective August 16, 2024. FISCAL IMPACT: Total annual costs of $20,128, of which $3,654 is related to the employer share of pension costs; 100% General Fund. Following the retirement of the incumbent Legislative Coordinator, this cost impact will be fully offset from cost savings related to that position. BACKGROUND: On June 13, 2024, the County Administrator’s Office launched a recruitment for the position of Senior Deputy County Administrator - Exempt to serve as the County’s Legislative Coordinator. This is following an announcement by the current incumbent of a scheduled retirement at the end of the calendar year. On July 5, 2024, the recruitment concluded with 29 applicants meeting the minimum qualifications. The County Administrator’s Office invited 10 applicants for interview and, ultimately, interviewed nine (9) applicants. One (1) applicant declined interview upon finding separate employment. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2840,Version:1 Upon completion of the interview process, it was determined that an internal candidate currently in the position of Deputy County Administrator - Exempt was best suited for appointment to the position having previous federal and state legislative experience; however, the candidate had not previously served as a County Legislative Coordinator. For that reason, the department believed the best course of action would be to offer the position to the candidate at the current job classification level of Deputy County Administrator - Exempt with a roadmap to developing the experience necessary to promote to the level of Senior Deputy County Administrator - Exempt. Due to the nature of this appointment, Section 4.10 of the Salary Regulations treats this situation as a transfer within the same job classification even though the underlying process was a competitive recruitment. This is due to the unique situation of the successful candidate being 1) an internal County employee, and 2) being in the same job classification as is being recommended for appointment even though, once appointed, the candidate would be responsible for a completely different set of job duties. Specifically, Section 4.10 of the Salary Regulations states the following: 4.10 Salary on Transfer-Same Class: An employee who is transferred from one position to another position in the same class shall be compensated at the same step in the salary range as he previously received. (Ord. 1727; prior code §2442(f); Ord. 1351; Ord. 1285; prior Ord. Code §36-4.1202) Based on the unique circumstances related to this appointment and the desire to provide a higher salary step placement to the candidate that successfully participated in an open, competitive recruitment process, the County Administrator’s Office is recommending that the incumbent of position # 20031 receive an increased step placement from Step 2 to Step 4 in the classification of Deputy County Administrator - Exempt effective August 16, 2024 with no change to the incumbent’s anniversary date of February 1, 2025. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: The successful candidate would be required to remain at the current salary step following a competitive recruitment for the critical position of Legislative Coordinator. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2841 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:7/15/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:ADOPT Position Adjustment Resolution No. 26297 to establish the classification of Equity Analyst (represented) and add two positions in the Office of Racial Equity and Social Justice. Attachments:, Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Kendra Carr & Peter Kim, Co-Directors Office of Racial Equity and Social Justice Report Title:Establish the classification of Equity Analyst and add two (2) positions in the Office of Racial Equity and Social Justice ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: ADOPT Position Adjustment Resolution No. 26297 to establish the classification of Equity Analyst (AJVG) (represented) at salary plan and grade ZA5 1020 ($7,156 - $11,101) and add two (2) positions in the Office of Racial Equity and Social Justice (ORESJ). FISCAL IMPACT: Upon approval, positions are funded entirely by Measure X allocations in the Office of Racial Equity and Social Justice FY 2024-25 budget. BACKGROUND: These Equity Analysts will be core staff for the Office of Racial Equity and Social Justice and will support and perform work of the department. These positions are on-going. Duties include oversight of countywide integration of budgetary and policy analysis with data-driven strategies. These two (2) positions, respectively, will be responsible for 1) data collection/organization/analysis and coordination of cross-department data collaboration, and 2) policy and budget research/analysis/creation through an equity lens. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If left unfilled, department priority goals and core tasks will be significantly impacted and unmet due to lack of staff capacity. These positions are critical to meeting the mandates and expectations of the Board of Supervisors, County Administrator’s Office, County Departments, community partners, and County residents. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2841,Version:1 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ C.136 POSITION ADJUSTMENT REQUEST Department No./ NO. 26297 DATE 7 /12/24 Department Office of Racial Equity and Social Jus Budget Unit No. 0136 Org No. 0136 Agency No. 09 Action Requested: Establish the classification of Equity Analyst (AJVG) at salary plan and grade ZA5 1020 ($7,156 - $11, 101 ) and add two (2) positions in the Office of Racial Equity and Social Justice. Proposed Effective Date: 8/7/2024 Classification Questionnaire attached: Yes D. No� / Cost is within Department's budget: Yes� No D Total One-Time Costs (non-salary) associated with request: $0.00 Estimated total cost adjustment (salary I benefits / one time): Total annual cost $406,006.00 Net County Cost $406,006.00 Total this FY $236,837.00 N.C.C. this FY $236,837.00 SOURCE OF FUNDING TO OFFSET ADJUSTMENT Measure X Department must initiate necessary adjustment and submit to CAO. Use additional sheet for further explanations or comments. Peter Kim and Kendra Carr (for) Department Head REVIEWED BY CAO AND RELEASED TO HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT Lara Delaney for 7/12/2024 Deputy County Administrator Date HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT RECOMMENDATIONS DATE 8/13/2024 Establish the classification of Equity Analyst (AJVG )(represented) at salary plan and grade ZA5 1020 ($7, 156 -$11,101) and add two (2) positions in the Office of Racial Equity and Social Justice (ORESJ). Amend Resolution 71/17 establishing positions and resolutions allocating classes to the Basic/ Exempt salary schedule. Effective: � Day following Board Action. 0 __ (Date) Amanda Monson 8/13/2024 (for) Director of Human Resources Date COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR RECOMMENDATION: D Approve Recommendation of Director of Human Resources D Disapprove Recommendation of Director of Human Resources D Other: ------------------ BOARD OF SUPERVISORaf.CTION: Adjustment is APPROVE�. E,l�AF'F'RO\/EB g DATE 09-10-2024 DATE (for) County Administrator Monica Nino, Clerk of the Board of Supervisors and County Administrator POSITION ADJUSTMENT ACTION TO BE COMPLETED BY HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT FOLLOWING BOARD ACTION Adjust class(es) / position(s) as follows: P300 (M347) Rev 3/15/01 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2873 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:7/23/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:ADOPT Position Adjustment Resolution No. 26327 to: Reclassify one (1) District Attorney Chief of Administrative Services (APDD) at salary plan and grade B82 1894 ($10,545.23 - $13,948.78) and its incumbent, one (1) Probation Chief of Administrative Services (APDJ) at salary plan and grade B82 1894 ($10,545.23 - $13,948.78) and its incumbent, one (1) Public Works Chief of Fiscal Services (APDF) at salary plan and grade B82 1894 ($10,545.23 - $13,948.78) and its incumbent, one (1) Sheriff Chief of Management Services - Exempt (APD2) at salary plan and grade B85 2057 ($12,016.43 - $14,606.04) and its incumbent, one (1) Fire District Chief of Administrative Services (APDE) at salary plan and grade B85 1894 ($12,225.71 - $14,860.43) and its incumbent to Chief of Administrative Services II - Exempt (APD4) at salary plan and grade B85 1018 ($13,498.79 - $14,882.41); Reclassify one (1) Chief of Administrative Services II - Exempt (APD4) at salary plan and grade B85 1018 ($13,498.79 - $14,882.41) and its incumbent to Department Human Resources Officer II - Exempt (APG2) at salary plan and grade B85 1877 ($12,233.33 - $14,869.69); Abolish the classifications of District Attorney Chief of Administrative Services (APDD) at salary plan and grade B82 1894 ($10,545.23 - $13,948.78); Probation Chief of Administrative Services (APDJ) at salary plan and grade B82 1894 ($10,545.23 - $13,948.78); Public Works Chief of Fiscal Services (APDF) at salary plan and grade B82 1894 ($10,545.23 - $13,948.78); Sheriff Chief of Management Services - Exempt (APD2) at salary plan and grade B85 2057 ($12,016.43 - $14,606.04); Fire District Chief of Administrative Services (APDE) at salary plan and grade B85 1894 ($12,225.71 - $14,860.43). Attachments:, Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass RECOMMENDATIONS: ADOPT Position Adjustment Resolution No. 26327 to: ·Reclassify one (1) District Attorney Chief of Administrative Services (APDD) at salary plan and grade B82 1894 ($10,545.23 - $13,948.78) and its incumbent; one (1) Probation Chief of Administrative Services (APDJ) at salary plan and grade B82 1894 ($10,545.23 - $13,948.78) and its incumbent; one (1) Public Works Chief of Fiscal Services (APDF) at salary plan and grade B82 1894 ($10,545.23 - $13,948.78) and its incumbent; one (1) Sheriff Chief of Management Services - Exempt (APD2) at salary plan and grade B85 2057 ($12,016.43 - $14,606.04) and its incumbent; one (1) Fire District Chief of Administrative Services (APDE) at salary plan and grade B85 1894 ($12,225.71 - $14,860.43) and its incumbent to Chief of Administrative Services II - Exempt (APD4) at salary plan and grade B85 1018 ($13,498.79 - $14,882.41). ·Reclassify one (1) Chief of Administrative Services II - Exempt (APD4) at salary plan and grade B85 1018 ($13,498.79 - $14,882.41) and its incumbent to Department Human Resources Officer II - Exempt (APG2) at salary plan and grade B85 1877 ($12,233.33 - $14,869.69). CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2873,Version:1 ·Abolish the classifications of District Attorney Chief of Administrative Services (APDD) at salary plan and grade B82 1894 ($10,545.23 - $13,948.78); Probation Chief of Administrative Services (APDJ) at salary plan and grade B82 1894 ($10,545.23 - $13,948.78); Public Works Chief of Fiscal Services (APDF) at salary plan and grade B82 1894 ($10,545.23 - $13,948.78); Sheriff Chief of Management Services - Exempt (APD2) at salary plan and grade B85 2057 ($12,016.43 - $14,606.04); Fire District Chief of Administrative Services (APDE) at salary plan and grade B85 1894 ($12,225.71 - $14,860.43). FISCAL IMPACT: The net fiscal impact is approximately $17,325 for Fiscal Year 2024/25. BACKGROUND: Starting in 2023, Human Resources and the County Administrator initiated a countywide effort to reduce and consolidate job classifications. A study of the Administrative Services Officer (ASO) classification and various departmental Chief of Administrative Services roles was conducted, and the findings demonstrated many similarities in scope of work, skill, and required experience across the departments. The results of the study yielded the creation of the new Chief of Administrative Services I - Exempt job class and retitle of the Chief of Administrative Services - Exempt to Chief of Administrative Services II - Exempt. Incumbents in the department specific Chief of Administrative Services job classes will be reclassified into the Chief of Administrative Services II - Exempt classification. The revised job description was developed to encompass the work of employees currently residing within the existing Chief of Administration roles. Benefits of the reclassification include a revised pay range that incorporates a higher top step of $178,588.93 annually. Reclassified employees will be transitioned to the rate of pay in the new range closest to their current salary. Employees who are not already at the top step will be eligible for a merit step review at their next regularly scheduled anniversary date. This change will not affect the merit review date or an employee’s job class seniority date. Both will reflect the date of their appointment into their department specific Chief of Admin job class. As an exempt classification, Chief of Administrative Services II - Exempt places the employee “on leave from the merit system.” This change will be explained to employees in a memo informing them of the reclassification and how it will affect their status. These employees will continue to be entitled to the provisions of the Management Resolution. They will also be given the opportunity to ask any questions they may have regarding the change. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If not approved,positions throughout the County will continue to be misaligned and not reflective of current scope of those employees within the role. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ POSITION ADJUSTMENT REQUEST C.137 NO. 26327 DATE 8/29/2024 Department No./ Department Multiple Departments Budget Unit No. __ Org No. __ Agency No. _ Action Requested: Approve reclass of (1) DA Chief of Administrative Services; (1) Probation Chief of Administrative Services; (1)PW Chief of Fiscal Services; (1) Sheriff Chief of Mgmt Services -Exempt; (1) Fire District Chief of Administrative Services positions to Chief of Administrative Services II -Exempt and (1) Chief of Administrative Services II -Exempt to Dept HR Officer II and abolish all dept specific classifications. Proposed Effective Date.: 10/1/2024 Classification Questionnaire attached: Yes D No fgl / Cost is within Department's budget: Yes IZI No D Total One-Time Costs (non-salary) associated with request: $0.00 Estimated total cost adjustment (salary I benefits I one time): Total annual cost $23,100 Total this FY $17,325 Net County Cost $0.00 N.C.C. this FY $0.00 SOURCE OF FUNDING TO OFFSET ADJUSTMENT The affected positions are within numerous departments. Department must initiate ne·cessary adjustment and submit to CAO. Use additional sheet for further explanations or comments. Nicole Bilich (for) Department Head REVIEWED BY CAO AND RELEASED TO HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT Chrystine Robbins (for) 9/5/2024 Deputy County Administrator Date HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT RECOMMENDATIONS DATE 6/13/2024 Approve reclass of (1) DA Chief of Administrative Services; (1) Probation Chief of Administrative Services; (1) PW Chief of Fiscal Services; (1) Sheriff Chief of Mgmt Services -Exempt; (1) Fire District Chief of Administrative Services positions to Chief of Administrative Services II -Exempt and (1) Chief of Administrative Services II -Exempt to Dept HR Officer II and abolish all dept specific classifications as outlined. Amend Resolution 71/17 establishing positions and resolutions allocating classes to the Basic/ Exempt salary schedule. Effective: D Day following Board Action. IZI 10/1 /2024(Date) Nicole Bilich 8/29/2024 (for) Director of Human Resources Date COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR RECOMMENDATION: DATE 09/05/24 IZI Approve Recommendation of Director of Human Resources D Disapprove Recommendation of Director of Human Resources Jason Chan D Other: ________________ _ (for) County Administrator BOARD OF SUPERVISORS ACTION: "-·Monica Nino, Clerk of the Board of Supervisors Adjustment is APPROVED D -1:Mi A �T TnJ:J � nd County Administrator 09-10-2024 ��/ , DATE BY _//� APPROVAL OF THIS ADJUSTMENT CONSTITUTES A PERSONNEL / ARY RESOLUTION AMENDMENT POSITION ADJUSTMENT ACTION TO BE COMPLETED BY HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT FOLLOWING BOARD ACTION Adjust class(es) / position(s) as follows: P300 (M347) Rev 3/15/01 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2842 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/9/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:ADOPT Position Adjustment Resolution No. 26326 to reclassify one (1) vacant Human Resources Analyst (AGTF) (unrepresented) position (20516) at salary plan and grade B85 1631 ($8,195.09 - $12,107.88) to one (1) Human Resources Technician (AG7B) (unrepresented) position at salary plan and grade B85 1136 ($6,316.93 - $7,678.27). The position will remain assigned to the Human Resources Department and funded by the Employment and Human Services Department. (100% EHSD) Attachments:, , Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Ann Elliott, Human Resources Director Report Title:Reclassify one (1) Human Resources Analyst position to one (1) Human Resources Technician position within the Human Resources Department, as a dedicated resource recruiting for the Employment and Human Services Department. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: ADOPT Position Adjustment Resolution No. 26326 to reclassify one (1) vacant Human Resources Analyst (AGTF) (unrepresented) position at salary plan and grade B85 1631 ($8,195.09- $12,107.88) to one (1) Human Resources Technician (AG7B) (unrepresented) position at salary plan and grade B85 1136 ($6,316.93 - $7,678.27). The position will remain assigned to the Human Resources Department and funded by the Employment and Human Services Department. FISCAL IMPACT: The net fiscal impact is an annual decrease of approximately $87,856. The position will remain funded by the Employment and Human Services Department and allocated to the Human Resources Department. BACKGROUND: Currently the Employment and Human Services Department (EHSD) funds 100% of three (3) Human CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2842,Version:1 Resources Analyst positions augmented to the Human Resources Department. These positions specifically support EHSD with all recruitment, classification, and compensation activities. EHSD and Human Resources have found that the needs of department require the support of both the Human Resources Analyst and Human Resources Technician classifications. Adjusting to a model of two (2) Human Resources Analysts and one (1) Human Resources Technician will provide more balanced coverage for the department specific tasks. These dedicated staff positions, assigned to exclusively support recruitment and human resources efforts for EHSD, are employees of the Human Resources Department and physically reside within the Central HR office. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: The Human Resources Department will not be able to provide the dedicated support needed to handle the different levels of recruitment actions for the Employment and Human Services Department. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ P300 Cost Analysis Date:1-Aug-24 Annualization Factor 12 Benefit Percentage 36.54%Based on FY 24/25 PCF Pension Percentage 21.05%Based on FY 24/25 PCF Classification Human Resources Analyst # of Pos. Total Costs Budgeted Monthly Salary 12,108$ 1 Benefit Amount 4,424$ 4,424$ Salary + Benefit 16,532$ 16,532$ Annualized Sal+ Ben Cost 198,385$ 198,385$ Effective Mo's 12 Upcoming Yr. Cost 198,385$ 198,385$ Federal Percentage 59.00% Federal Cost 117,047$ 117,047$ State Percentage 35.00% State Cost 69,435$ 69,435$ Other Funding 100%-$ County Percentage 6.00% County Cost 11,903$ 11,903$ Annual Pension Cost 41,760$ 41,760$ TOTAL ANNUAL COST (Salary+Benefits+Pension)240,145$ 240,145$ Step 1 8,195.10$ Step 2 8,604.85$ Step 3 9,035.09$ Step 4 9,486.85$ Step 5 9,961.19$ Step 6 10,459.25$ Step 7 10,982.21$ Step 8 11,531.32$ Step 9 12,107.89$ Step 10 Step 11 Step 12 Step 13 Step 14 Step 15 \\prod-netapp-ob-as-fsas.systems.dc.gdi\insite_data_prod\files\CCCA\Attachments\2a6d0a4d-427a-462b-b417-938fbe6dcee0.xlsx 9/5/2024 P300 Cost Analysis Date:1-Aug-24 Annualization Factor 12 Benefit Percentage 36.54%Based on FY 24/25 PCF Pension Percentage 21.05%Based on FY 24/25 PCF Classification Human Resources Technician # of Pos. Total Costs Budgeted Monthly Salary 7,678$ 1 Benefit Amount 2,806$ 2,806$ Salary + Benefit 10,484$ 10,484$ Annualized Sal+ Ben Cost 125,807$ 125,807$ Effective Mo's 12 Upcoming Yr. Cost 125,807$ 125,807$ Federal Percentage 59.00% Federal Cost 74,226$ 74,226$ State Percentage 35.00% State Cost 44,032$ 44,032$ Other Funding 100%-$ County Percentage 6.00% County Cost 7,548$ 7,548$ Annual Pension Cost 26,482$ 26,482$ TOTAL ANNUAL COST (Salary+Benefits+Pension)152,289$ 152,289$ Step 1 6,316.93$ Step 2 6,632.78$ Step 3 6,964.42$ Step 4 7,312.64$ Step 5 7,678.57$ Step 6 Step 7 Step 8 Step 9 Step 10 Step 11 Step 12 Step 13 Step 14 Step 15 \\prod-netapp-ob-as-fsas.systems.dc.gdi\insite_data_prod\files\CCCA\Attachments\2a6d0a4d-427a-462b-b417-938fbe6dcee0.xlsx 9/5/2024 HR Recommendations P300 #26294 Establish the following classifications:  Deputy Agricultural Commissioner & Sealer of Weights and Measures (BAHB) at salary plan and grade ZA5 1724 ($8,646.59 - $10,509.98)  Agricultural Biologist/Weights & Measures Inspector I (BAWB) at salary plan and grade QA5 1361 ($6,034.90- $7,335.46)  Agricultural Biologist/Weights & Measures Inspector II (BAVB) at salary plan and grade QA5 1440 ($6,525.91- $7,932.28) Reclassify the following positions and carryover seniority from prior class:  Reclassify three (3) positions including two (2) incumbents and one (1) vacant position from Deputy Agricultural Commissioner (BAHA)(represented) to Deputy Agricultural Commissioner & Sealer of Weights and Measures (BAHB); Reclassify one (1) position and incumbent from Deputy Sealer of Weights and Measures Inspector (BWHA)(represented) to Deputy Agricultural Commissioner & Sealer of Weights and Measures (BAHB);  Reclassify six (6) positions including five (5) incumbents and one (1) vacant position from Agricultural Biologist I (BAWA) to Agricultural Biologist/Weights & Measures Inspector I (BAWB); Reclassify two (2) positions and incumbents and one (1) vacant position from Weights/Measures Inspector I (BWWA) to Agricultural Biologist/Weights & Measures Inspector I (BAWB);  Reclassify one (1) position and incumbent from Agricultural Biologist II (BAVA)(represented) to Agricultural Biologist/Weights & Measures Inspector II (BAVB); Abolish the classifications of Deputy Agricultural Commissioner (BAHA), Deputy Sealer of Weights and Measures Inspector (BWHA), Agricultural Biologist II (BAVA), Weights/Measures Inspector II (BWVA), Agricultural Biologist I (BAWA), and Weights/Measures Inspector I (BWWA) in the Department of Agriculture. 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2844 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/9/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:ADOPT Position Adjustment Resolution No. 26312 to reallocate the salary for the Custodial Services Supervisor classification on the salary schedule in the Public Works Department. (100% Building Occupancy Charges) Attachments:, Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Monica Nino, County Administrator Report Title:Reallocate the salary for the Custodial Services Supervisor classification ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: ADOPT Position Adjustment Resolution No. 26312 to reallocate the salary for the Custodial Services Supervisor (GKHC) from salary plan and grade ZA5 1202 ($5,156.79 - $6,268.11) to a revised five step salary plan and grade ($6,295.37 - $7,652.07) in the Public Works Department and place position number 00017956 at the new step 5. FISCAL IMPACT: The annual cost impact (including benefits) will be approximately $26,000, including $3,200 in pension costs. All costs will be offset by Building Occupancy Charges. BACKGROUND: The Custodial Services Supervisor oversees custodial services staff across multiple County locations. This salary reallocation will help closer align this classification with Public Works positions performing similar supervisory functions and will more appropriately represent the responsibilities of the position. This reallocation is also necessary for the long-term reorganization of the supervisory structure for the Custodial Services Supervisor and Recycling Services Supervisor. When finalized, the Department plans to merge the functions of the Custodial Services Supervisor with those of the Recycle and Surplus Center Supervisor, creating a more flexible and equitable supervisory structure. Labor has agreed to the future merger CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2844,Version:1 of these functions in a single job class at the reallocated salary for the Custodial Services Supervisor. The Department will bring this item to the Board of Supervisors for consideration at a future date. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: There will continue to be a large disparity in pay between two comparable job classifications. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2740 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/20/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Chief Information Officer or designee to execute a contract with Aviat U.S., Inc. in an amount not to exceed $270,000 to provide equipment and installation services to establish a data connection from the Department of Information Technology to a disaster recovery site in the Port of Stockton for the period of September 1, 2024, through April 30, 2025. (100% General Fund) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Marc Shorr, Information Technology Director Report Title:Contract with Aviat, U.S. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Chief Information Officer or designee to execute a contract with Aviat U.S., Inc. in an amount not to exceed $270,000 to provide radio and microwave equipment and for installation services to establish a data connection from the Department of Information Technology to a disaster recovery site in the Port of Stockton for the period of September 1, 2024, through April 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: The cost for this contract is included in the FY 24-25 Department of Information Technology budget. 100% General Fund. BACKGROUND: The Department of Information Technology maintains and operates the County’s primary data center providing critical services to the County that must be continuously available in the event of a natural disaster including earthquakes, fire and floods. In late 2022, the County started researching possible locations that could serve as a disaster recovery site as we did not currently have a viable disaster recovery center. After considering many different factors such as a low monthly fixed cost, and guaranteed 100% uptime, the County selected Nautilus Data Technologies, Inc. which is built on a floating barge that is permanently docked at the Port of Stockton in San Joaquin County. The County now needs to create a connection to the site which is necessary for data CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2740,Version:1 transfer for systemwide back-up and restoral. The County’s broader microwave system, including all public safety communication, is comprised solely of Aviat equipment which has been configured by Aviat over the last four (4) decades. To complete the connection with the Nautilus center at the Port of Stockton, equipment will need to be installed on the existing Kregor Peak tower located between the cities of Clayton and Pittsburg. Other manufacturers do not have the equipment nor the expertise to provide the microwave equipment necessary to connect to the County’s communication system. Like goods are not compatible with the system as the Aviat equipment is propriety and does not connect with other brands of equipment. This new spur connection will become part of the overall public safety communication microwave ring which connects land-mobile radio coverage throughout Contra Costa and Alameda Counties. The Contractor will be paid based on the successful completion of set milestones. Aviat is a sole source procurement for this system and will be procured with funds from the Microwave Upgrade Project in collaboration with the County Administrator’s Office and Public Works. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this item is not approved, we will not be able to transmit data to our offsite disaster recovery location. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2741 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/26/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Chief Information Officer, or designee, to execute a contract with Unify, Inc., subject to Unify’s agreement terms, including all attachments thereto, in an amount not to exceed $360,000 to provide equipment and installation services for an upgrade to the HiPath 4000 telephone system at the Contra Costa Regional Medical Center for the term of September 1, 2024, through August 31, 2025. (100% Hospital Enterprise Fund I) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Marc Shorr, Information Technology Director Report Title:Contract with Unify, Inc. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Chief Information Officer, or designee, to execute a contract with Unify, Inc., subject to Unify’s agreement terms, including all attachments thereto, in an amount not to exceed $360,000 to provide equipment and installation services for an upgrade to the HiPath 4000 telephone system at the Contra Costa Regional Medical Center for the term of September 1, 2024, through August 31, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: The cost is funded through the Hospital Enterprise Fund I. 100% Hospital Enterprise Fund. BACKGROUND: On December 20, 2016, the Board authorized the Director of Health Services to execute a contract with Unify, Inc. to replace the outdated telephone technology and hardware with a new comprehensive HiPath 4000 telephone system. After nearly a decade, it is time to upgrade to the newest version of the HiPath 4000 system which will include new security features as well as a new OpenScape Deployment Service V10 system on two new virtual servers which will support 900 new telephones and SIP Stations to optimize managing the existing OS 4000 system. The products, software and services provided by Unify, Inc. are proprietary, and parts or services obtained from other vendors will not work on this system. At this time, it is not in the best financial interest of the County or the Health Services Department to solicit bids from other vendors to purchase an entirely new telephone system. The telephone system at the Contra Costa Regional Medical Center is functioning, however, an upgrade CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2741,Version:1 is essential due to new and enhanced security features. This contract is being made with a sole source justification. Contractor will be paid upon milestones achieved as part of the agreement. Unify’s agreement includes a limitation of liability that caps liability at the amount of fees paid under the contract in the 12 months prior to the claim arising. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Without a high functioning and efficient telephone system within the Contra Costa Regional Medical Center, the patients and staff will be at risk. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2742 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/26/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Chief Information Officer, or designee, to execute a contract with Call Center Sales Pro (CCSP) in an amount not to exceed $6,000 for the renewal of call answering services, subject to the terms of CCSP’s Master Service Agreement, for the period of September 1, 2024, through August 31, 2025. (100% User Departments) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Marc Shorr, Information Technology Director Report Title:Contract with Call Center Sales Pro. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Chief Information Officer, or designee, to execute a contract with Call Center Sales Pro (CCSP) in an amount not to exceed $6,000 for the renewal of call answering services, subject to the terms of CCSP’s Master Service Agreement, for the period of September 1, 2024, through August 31, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: The cost of this product is included in the Departments FY 24-25 budget. 100% User Departments. BACKGROUND: The Department of Information Technology Telecommunications Division staff fields calls from other County departments and employees who are reporting outages, service interruptions, or performance issues affecting the County's telecom services, including phone lines, internet connectivity, and emergency communication systems. The Telecommunications Division utilizes call answering services provided by Call Center Sales Pro in the following situations: ·Daytime Call Overflow Management: During peak hours, or when staff are unavailable due to departmental meetings, calls can be redirected to Call Center Sales Pro’s answering service, ensuring that every call is attended to promptly. ·After-Hours Call Handling: Outside of regular business hours, Call Center Sales Pro’s answering service will manage incoming calls, providing information, taking messages, or escalating critical issues CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2742,Version:1 to the appropriate on-call staff. The CCSP Master Service Agreement contains an indemnification provision from County to CCSP. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this request is not approved it will compromise the department's ability to effectively communicate with the public, other departments, and external partners, leading to a range of operational risks. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2743 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/23/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent, on behalf of the Chief Information Officer, to execute a purchase order with Deloitte, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $50,000 to provide software licenses, service, maintenance and technical support for the period of September 1, 2024 through August 31, 2029. (100% User Departments) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Marc Shorr, Information Technology Director Report Title:Purchase Order with Deloitte, Inc. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent, on behalf of the Chief Information Officer, to execute a purchase order with Deloitte, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $50,000 to provide software licenses, service, maintenance and technical support for the period of September 1, 2024, through August 31, 2029. FISCAL IMPACT: The cost is included in the Department’s FY24-25 budget and will be charged to user departments. 100% User Departments. BACKGROUND: Deloitte provides a specialized tool that integrates with the UKG Pro Workforce Management timekeeping system and is used by larger departments to assist in timekeeping input. The County is currently undergoing an upgrade of the timekeeping system and the CleverAnt software also must be upgraded to be compatible with the new timekeeping software. At its April 9, 2024, meeting, the Board approved a five-year contract with the timekeeping system, UKG Kronos Systems LLC, and this agreement is also for a five-year period. Deloitte’s customer agreement contains a limitation of liability that shall not exceed the fees paid by County under this agreement. This purchase is being made via sole source justification for product service continuity. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2743,Version:1 CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this agreement is not approved, this time-saving tool will not be available for the departmental staff that rely on it and may create undue hardship on them and could result errors in processing employee payroll. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2744 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/28/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the County Librarian, or designee, to apply for and accept East Bay Community Foundation grant funds administered by the Rodeo Municipal Advisory Council in the amount of $5,000 to continue providing additional public library service hours at the Rodeo branch for the period January 1 through June 30, 2025. (Library Fund, no County match) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Alison McKee, County Librarian Report Title:Apply for and Accept East Bay Community Foundation Grant Funds Administered by the Rodeo Municipal Advisory Council in the amount of $5,000. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Librarian, or designee, to apply for and accept a grant in the amount of $5,000 from East Bay Community Foundation, administered by the Rodeo Municipal Advisory Council, for Rodeo Library services, pursuant to the local refinery Good Neighbor Agreement for the period January 1 through June 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: No library fund match. BACKGROUND: The County currently funds 20 hours of library service at the Rodeo Library. If granted, the $5,000 from The East Bay Community Foundation, administered by the Rodeo Municipal Advisory Council, will be used to fund additional hours of library service. The proposed additional hours will provide one extra hour of Saturday service, and three extra hours of service during the week. These extended hours offer Rodeo residents additional opportunities to make use of the educational and recreational resources available at the library. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If the grant proposal is not approved, the Rodeo Library will remain open for the County funded 20 hours per week, instead of the proposed 24 hours per week. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2744,Version:1 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2747 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/8/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent to execute, on behalf of the County Librarian, a purchase order with Lansweeper, Inc., in an amount not to exceed $14,364 for the renewal of Lansweeper Pro subscriptions for computer asset tracking, for the period July 15, 2024 through July 15, 2027. (100% Library Fund) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Alison McKee, County Librarian Report Title:Purchase Order with Lansweeper Inc. for Lansweeper Pro Subscriptions through July 15, 2027. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent to execute, on behalf of the County Librarian, a purchase order including modified indemnification and limitation of liability provisions with Lansweeper Inc, subject to Lansweeper’s Terms, in an amount not to exceed $14,364 for the renewal of Lansweeper Pro subscriptions, for the period July 15, 2024, through July 15, 2027. FISCAL IMPACT: 100% Library Fund. BACKGROUND: The Library uses this software for asset tracking, troubleshooting network/computer issues and devices connected to the network. This product helps with the identification of devices on the network, tracking new and old devices and reports for asset management. Lansweeper’s Terms include an indemnification of Lansweeper for claims arising from an act or omission by the County, and a limitation of liability capping Lansweeper’s liability at the amount of fees paid per contract year. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If the Purchase Order is not approved, the Contra Costa County Library’s IT operations will not be able to function as they have been, and library services to patrons will be impacted. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2747,Version:1 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2748 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/8/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent to execute, on behalf of the County Librarian, a purchase order with Califa Group in an amount not to exceed $11,583 for the renewal of the Dow Jones Wall Street Journal subscription, for the period August 1, 2024 through July 31, 2025. (100% Library Fund) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Alison McKee, County Librarian Report Title:Purchase Order with Califa Group for Dow Jones Wall Street Journal Subscription through July 31, 2025 ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent to execute, on behalf of the County Librarian, a purchase order including modified limitation of liability with Califa Group in an amount not to exceed $11,583 for the renewal of the Dow Jones Wall Street Journal subscription, for the period August 1, 2024, through July 31, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: 100% Library Fund. BACKGROUND: The Library Department’s subscription to the Wall Street Journal (WSJ), allows library patrons to read the newspaper online and gives access to in-depth coverage of national and international news so patrons can stay informed about significant global events. As a leading financial publication, the WSJ offers expert analysis and reporting on market trends, economic developments, and corporate news, making it invaluable to library patrons. The terms and conditions include limitation of liability provisions, approved by County Counsel. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If the Purchase Order is not approved, the Contra Costa County Library will not be able to provide patrons with the subscription for the Wall Street Journal and the valuable information it provides. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2748,Version:1 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2749 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/13/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent to execute, on behalf of the County Librarian, a purchase order with EBSCO Information Services, LLC, subject to the terms of EBSCO’s License Agreement, in an amount not to exceed $91,088 for the renewal of 13 databases used by the library (Full Text Finder, Literary Reference Source eBook Subscription, Literary Reference Plus, MAS FullTEXT Ultra School Edition, MAS Reference eBook Subscription, Middle Search Plus: HOST, Middle Search Reference eBook Subscription, Newspaper Source, NoveList Plus, Novelist Select, Points of View Reference Source, Primary Search: Host, Primary Search Reference eBook Subscription) for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. (100% Library Fund) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Alison McKee, County Librarian Report Title:Purchase Order with EBSCO Information Services, LLC for 13 databases used by the Library, for the period July 1, 2024, through June 20, 2025. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent to execute, on behalf of the County Librarian, a purchase order including modified limitation of liability and indemnification language with EBSCO Information Services, LLC in an amount not to exceed $91,088 for the renewal of 13 databases used by the library (Full Text Finder, Literary Reference Source eBook Subscription, Literary Reference Plus, MAS FullTEXT Ultra School Edition, MAS Reference eBook Subscription, Middle Search Plus: HOST, Middle Search Reference eBook Subscription, Newspaper Source, NoveList Plus, Novelist Select, Points of View Reference Source, Primary Search: Host, Primary Search Reference eBook Subscription) for the period July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: 100% Library Fund. BACKGROUND: The Library Department has used and continues to use EBSCO for various online subscriptions for patron use. EBSCO is a leading provider of research content, search technologies, and delivery platforms for public libraries. The Library selected EBSCO for a database package that includes Full Text Finder, Literary Reference Source eBook Subscription, Literary Reference Plus, MAS FullTEXT, Ultra School Edition, MAS Reference eBook Subscription, Middle Search Plus: HOST, Middle Search Reference eBook Subscription, CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2749,Version:1 Newspaper Source, NoveList Plus, Novelist Select, Points of View Reference Source, Primary Search: Host, Primary Search, and Reference eBook Subscription. This package includes authoritative sources, such as journals, full-text magazines, newspapers, reference eBooks, primary documents, and other educational content appropriate for research papers, class projects and home assignments for students and lifelong learners at all levels. EBSCO’s Discovery Service utilizes a single search where researchers can find content found in all the Library’s full-text databases. ConsumerReports.org provides patrons with trusted information to help them make smart buying decisions. Terms and Conditions include limitation of liability and indemnification provisions approved by County Counsel. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If the Purchase Order is not approved, the Contra Costa County Library will not be able to provide patrons with the extensive information and search capabilities provided by these databases. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2750 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/20/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent to execute, on behalf of the County Librarian, a purchase order with Frontline Education in an amount not to exceed $10,216 for the renewal of Absence & Substitute Management subscription, for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. (100% Library Fund) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Alison McKee, County Librarian Report Title:Purchase Order with Frontline Education for Absence & Substitute Management Subscription through June 30, 2025 ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent to execute, on behalf of the County Librarian, a purchase order with Frontline Education, subject to the terms of Frontline’s Master Services Agreement, in an amount not to exceed $10,216.00 for the renewal of Absence & Substitute Management subscription, for the period July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: 100% Library Fund. BACKGROUND: The Frontline Absence & Substitute Management system is an automated substitute placement and absence management system the library uses to fill vacancies. It saves hours of manual sub-calling, while capturing rich data for better employee absence management. Frontline’s Master Services Agreement includes an indemnification from the County to Frontline, as well as a limitation of liability at the amount of fees paid in the prior 12 months. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If the Purchase Order is not approved, the Contra Costa County Library will not be able to use the automated web and phone-based substitute placement platform. The library will have to go back to manual calling of substitutes to fill vacancies. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2750,Version:1 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2751 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/20/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent to execute, on behalf of the County Librarian, a purchase order with Califa Group in an amount not to exceed $6,000 for the renewal of Quipu Group LLC’s eRenew subscription through Califa Group, for the period March 1, 2024 through February 28, 2025. (100% Library Fund) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Alison McKee, County Librarian Report Title:Purchase Order with Califa Group for Quipu Group, LLC’s eRenew subscription through February 28, 2025. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent to execute, on behalf of the County Librarian, a purchase order with Califa Group in an amount not to exceed $6,000 for the renewal of Quipu Group LLC eRenew subscription, subject to the terms of Quipu’s Hosted Services Agreement, for address and name verification for online library card renewals, for the period March 1, 2024, through February 28, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: 100% Library Fund. BACKGROUND: The Library Department has used and continues to use eCard, from Quipu Group LLC. which provides address and name verification processes for online library card renewals. Quipu’s Hosted Services Agreement includes an indemnification from the County Quipu and a limitation of liability to the amount of fees paid. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If the Purchase Order is not approved, the Contra Costa County Library will not be able to provide an easily accessible way for patrons to renew their library accounts. Patrons will need to physically come to the library branch to renew their expired cards. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2751,Version:1 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2752 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/27/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent to execute, on behalf of the County Librarian, a purchase order with EBSCO Information Services, LLC, in an amount not to exceed $37,474 for the renewal of Rosetta Stone (language learning) subscriptions, for the period September 1, 2024 through August 31, 2025. (100% Library Fund) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Alison McKee, County Librarian Report Title:Purchase Order with EBSCO for Rosetta Stone Subscriptions through August 31, 2025. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent to execute, on behalf of the County Librarian, a purchase order with EBSCO Information Services LLC in an amount not to exceed $37,474.00 for the renewal of Rosetta Stone subscriptions, subject to the terms of Rosetta Stone’s Enterprise License Agreement, for the period September 1, 2024, through August 31, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: 100% Library Fund. BACKGROUND: The Library offers patrons the use of Rosetta Stone for learning a new language. Rosetta Stone offers instruction in 20 languages, including English as a Second Language. Rosetta Stone’s structured immersion method provides an intuitive language learning approach that dramatically increases the efficiency and effectiveness of language instruction and gives the learner a continuous experience of success. The resource includes live lessons with Rosetta Stone coaches, on-demand videos of everyday scenarios to help learners improve fluency, and interactive stories for reinforcing speaking, reading, and listening skills. The product is available on computers and mobile devices. Rosetta Stone’s Enterprise License Agreement includes a limitation of liability provision that caps liability at the amount of fees paid, approved by County Counsel. There is no indemnification language. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If the Purchase Order is not approved, the Contra Costa County Library will not be able to provide patrons with CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2752,Version:1 an often requested, trusted, and popular language learning resource. Rosetta Stone’s award-winning interactive approach has been used by millions of learners around the world and offers tremendous name recognition that boosts the overall popularity and awareness of the Library and its digital resources. A purchase of Rosetta Stone will help language learners develop confidence in multilingual settings; provide patrons with opportunities to increase professional skills and expand job prospects; and promote inclusive participation and strengthen community connections. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2753 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/9/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent to execute, on behalf of the Public Defender's Office, a purchase order with Continuing Education of the Bar (CEB) in an amount of $35,620 for a subscription to the CEB digital products for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. (100% General Fund) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Ellen McDonnell, Public Defender Report Title:Purchase Order with Continuing Education of the Bar, California (CEB) ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute on behalf of the Public Defender’s Office, a purchase order with Continuing Education of the Bar, California (CEB), in the amount of $35,620 for a subscription to the CEB digital product OnLAW PRO, an online research engine, for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: 100% County General Fund BACKGROUND: The Public Defender’s Office (CCPD) seeks to renew a subscription to CEB’s OnLAW PRO, an online research engine that allows our attorneys to save time and increase efficiency by having the most current law books and online services available. This purchase order includes a service agreement, subject to CEB’s terms and conditions that contains a limitation of liability on behalf of CEB. The department is seeking approval of this purchase order now as there was a delay due to staffing transitions in the department’s administration unit. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: CCPD staff will not have the tools to provide indigent legal services as mandated. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2753,Version:1 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:1RES 2024- 303 Name: Status:Type:Consent Resolution Passed File created:In control:8/8/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:ADOPT Resolution No. 2024-303 accepting as complete the contracted work performed by Granite Rock Company for the Walnut Boulevard Bikeway Gap Closure Project, as recommended by the Public Works Director, Brentwood area. (18% State Highway Safety Improvement Program Funds, 5% Transportation Development Act Funds, 77% Discovery Bay West Mitigation Funds) Attachments:, Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally adoptedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Warren Lai, Public Works Director/Chief Engineer Report Title:Notice of Completion for the Walnut Boulevard Bikeway Gap Closure Project, Brentwood area. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: ADOPT Resolution accepting as complete the contracted work performed by Granite Rock Company for the Walnut Boulevard Bikeway Gap Closure Project,as recommended by the Public Works Director,Brentwood area. (County Project No. 0662-6R4118) (State Project No. HSIPSL-5928(172) (District III) FISCAL IMPACT: The Project was funded by State Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP)18%,Transportation Development Act (TDA) 5%, Discovery Bay West Mitigation 77%. BACKGROUND: The Public Works Director reports that said work has been inspected and complies with the approved plans, special provisions and standard specifications and recommends its acceptance as complete as of July 24, 2024. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: The contractor will not be paid, and acceptance notification will not be recorded. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:RES 2024-303,Version:1 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ Recorded at the request of: C]erk of the Board Return To: Public Works Dept THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA C.155 and for Specia] Districts, Agencies and Authorities Governed by the Board Adopted 09-10-2024 this Reso]ution on _________ by the following vote: AYE: � John Gioia, Candace Andersen, Diane Burgis, Ken Carlson, Federal D. Glover NO: � ABSENT:□ ABSTAIN:� RECUSE: w IN THE MATTER OF The Board of Supervisors RESOLVES that: Owner (sole): Contra Costa County, 255 Glacier Drive, Martinez, CA 94553 Nature of Stated Owner: fee and/or easement Project No.: 0662-6R4118 Project Name: Walnut Boulevard Bikeway Gap Closure Project Date of Work Completion: July 24, 2024 WHEREAS Resolution No. 2�1)�Description: Contra Costa County on May 14, 2024 contracted with Granite Rock Company for work generally consisting of roadway shoulder widening along an 860-foot segment of Walnut Boulevard between Marsh Creek Road and Vasco Road to provide Class II Bike lanes in the unincorporated Brentwood area. Additional improvements_ included grinding and overlaying the roadw·ay pavement section, and installing a centerline rumble strip, striping, pavement markings, and signage, all in accordance with the plans, drawings, special provisions and/or specifications prepared by or for the Public Works Director and in accordance with-the accepted bid proposal. The project was located in the Brentwood area, with the Western Surety Company, as surety, for work to be performed on the grounds of the County; and The ·Public Works Director reports that said work has been inspected and complies ·with the approved plans, special provisions and standard specifications and recommends its acceptance as complete as of July 24, 2024. 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:1RES 2024- 307 Name: Status:Type:Consent Resolution Passed File created:In control:8/20/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:ADOPT Resolution No. 2024-307 accepting as complete, the contracted work performed by Accurate Controls, Inc., for the Security Systems Upgrade at Martinez and West County Detention Facilities Project, as recommended by the Public Works Director, Martinez and Richmond areas. (No fiscal impact) Attachments:, Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally adoptedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Warren Lai, Public Works Director/Chief Engineer Report Title:Resolution of Acceptance and Notice of Completion for the Security Systems Upgrade at Martinez and West County Detention Facilities at 1000 Ward Street, Martinez and 5555 Giant Highway, Richmond Module (WH324A and WH349A). ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: ADOPT resolution accepting as complete the contracted work performed by Accurate Controls, Inc., for the Security Systems Upgrade at Martinez and West County Detention Facilities at 1000 Ward Street, Martinez and 5555 Giant Highway, Richmond. FISCAL IMPACT: No fiscal Impact associated with accepting completion of contracted work. BACKGROUND: On July 26, 2022, the Board awarded a contract in the amount of $4,319,238 to Accurate Controls, Inc. to replace the current security surveillance system at the Martinez Detention Facility (MDF) and upgrade some of the security surveillance system at the West County Detention Facility (WCDF), the security surveillance systems, which included cameras, video management software, intercoms, and door controls systems, were operating on an overly proprietary and outdated platform with reduced functionality and reliability. After further site investigations and scoping discussions, it was determined that the approved budget in the amount of $4,319,238 would be insufficient to facilitate the complete security surveillance system and technology infrastructure needs for the two facilities. As such, additional equipment was installed and the project duration was extended, an additional amount of $1443,878.82 was required raising the final budget amount to $5,763,116.82 to complete the project. With the reduced reliability there was a need to update the existing security surveillance systems and associated CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:RES 2024-307,Version:1 technology infrastructure to ensure the continued safety and security of the corrections facility, its employees, and the incarcerated population. Accurate Controls, Inc. upgrade and replaced the proprietary and obsolete systems with a comprehensive, turn-key security surveillance system. The new systems have an intuitive approach and use the latest, best in class audio-visual information technology systems that fully integrate within the existing detention facilities. The upgrade of the two existing facilities’ security surveillance systems has resulted in increased visual coverage within the housing units and on and around the facilities, improved monitoring of incarcerated population activities, and reduced frequency of self-harm, assaults, and illicit behavior. The upgraded systems have provided reliable evidence in response to allegations of misconduct, lawsuits, and other complaints, ultimately reducing the County and Sheriff’s Office annual litigation expenses. Vanir, the County's construction manager found all work to be complete and Public Works Department concurs with this determination. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Accepting a contract as complete is standard procedure and allows for proper closeout of the contract. If the contract is not accepted as complete, the period for filing stop payment notices bond claims may be extended and then Contra Costa County will incur expenses for additional contract administration. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ .. Recorded at the request of: Clerk of the Board Return To:Public Works Dept THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA and for Special Districts, Agencies and Authorities Governed by the Board Adopted this Resolution on September 10 2024 by the following vote: AYE: � NO: � ABSENT: [o-J ABSTAIN:� RECUSE:� C.156 Resolution No. 2024-307 IN THE MATTE� OF Adopting Resolution, Accepting and giving Notice of Completion of Contract with Accurate Controls, Inc. for the completion of the Martinez Detention Facility & West County Detention Facility Security System Upgrade Project No. 250-2213 & 135-2206 (District V) WHEREAS, on July 26, 2022, the County (Owner) Contracted with Accurate Controls, Inc. (General Contractor), with Hudson Insurance Co. as surety, for the construction to be performed on the Security System Upgrades, located at 1000 Ward Street, Martinez and 5555 Giant Highway, CA, and WHEREAS, the Public Works Director reports aid work has been inspected and complies with the approval plans, special provisions and standard specifications and recommends its acceptance as complete as of August 6, 2024. The board of Supervisors RESOL YES that: Owner {Sole): Contra Costa County Nature of Stated Owner: Fee/or Easement Project Number: 250-2206 and 135-2206 Project Name: Security System Upgrades Date of Work: Completion: August 6, 2024 Description: On July 26, 2022, the Board awarded a contract in the amount of $4,319,238 to Accurate Controls, Inc. to replace the current security surveillance system at the Martinez Detention Facility (MDF) and upgrade some of the security surveillance system at the West County Detention Facility (WCDF), the security surveillance systems, which included cameras, video management software, intercoms, and door controls systems, were operating on an overly proprietary and outdated platform with reduced functionality and reliability. After further site investigations and scoping discussions, it was determined that the approved budget in the amount of $4,319,238 would be insufficient to facilitate the complete security surveillance system and technology infrastructure needs for the two facilities. As such, additional equipment was installed and the 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:1RES 2024- 304 Name: Status:Type:Consent Resolution Passed File created:In control:8/21/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:ADOPT Resolution No. 2024-304 approving the Parcel Map and Subdivision Agreement for minor subdivision MS14-00012, for a project being developed by Ravinder Parmar, as recommended by the Public Works Director, Walnut Creek area. (No fiscal impact) Attachments:, , , Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally adoptedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To: Board of Supervisors From:Warren Lai, Public Works Director/Chief Engineer Report Title:Approve the Parcel Map and Subdivision Agreement for minor subdivision MS14-00012, for a project developed by Ravinder Parmar, Walnut Creek area. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: ADOPT Resolution approving the Parcel Map and Subdivision Agreement for minor subdivision MS14-00012, for a project being developed by Ravinder Parmar, as recommended by the Public Works Director, Walnut Creek area. (District IV) FISCAL IMPACT: No fiscal impact. BACKGROUND: The Public Works Department has reviewed the conditions of approval for minor subdivision MS14-00012 and has determined that all conditions for Parcel Map approval have been satisfied. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: The Parcel Map and the Subdivision Agreement will not be approved and recorded. c: Larry Gossett-Engineering Services, Kellen O’Connor-Engineering Services, Anthony DiSilvestre-Engineering Services, Randy Sanders- Design/Construction, Kimberly Rodriguez-Design/Construction, Chris Lau-Maintenance, Renee Hutchins-Records, Karen Piona-Records, Chris Halford-Mapping, Rachel Brown-Finance, Stanley Muraoka-DCD, Ravinder Parmar, Merchants Bonding Company (Mutual) CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 3 powered by Legistar™ File #:RES 2024-304,Version:1 THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA and for Special Districts, Agencies and Authorities Governed by the Board IN THE MATTER OF approving the Parcel Map and Subdivision Agreement for minor subdivision MS14- 00012, for a project being developed by Ravinder Parmar, as recommended by the Public Works Director, Walnut Creek area. (District IV) WHEREAS, the following documents were presented for Board approval this date: I.Map The Parcel Map of minor subdivision MS14-00012, property located in the Walnut Creek area, Supervisorial District IV, said map having been certified by the proper officials. II.Subdivision Agreement A Subdivision Agreement with Ravinder Parmar, principal, whereby said principal agrees to complete all improvements as required in said Subdivision Agreement within 2 years from the date of said agreement. Accompanying said Subdivision Agreement is security guaranteeing completion of said improvements as follows: A.Cash Bond Performance amount: $1,000 Auditor’s Deposit Permit No. DP895512 Date: July 19, 2024 Submitted by: Ravinder Parmar B.Surety Bond Bond Company: Merchants Bonding Company (Mutual) Bond Number: 10120292 Date: July 7, 2024 Performance Amount: $31,000 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 3 powered by Legistar™ File #:RES 2024-304,Version:1 Labor & Materials Amount: $16,000 Principal: Ravinder Parmar III.Tax Letter Letter from the County Tax Collector stating that there are no unpaid County taxes heretofore levied on the property included in said map and that the 2023-2024 tax lien has been paid in full, and the 2024- 2025 tax lien, which became a lien on the first day of January, 2024 is estimated to be $28,890 with security guaranteeing payment of said tax lien as follows: Auditor’s Deposit Permit Number: DP895760 Date: July 23, 2024 Amount: $28,890.00 Submitted by Principal: Ravinder Parmar . NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED 1.That said minor subdivision, together with the provisions for its design and improvement, is DETERMINED to be consistent with the County's general and specific plans. 2.That said Parcel Map is APPROVED and this Board does hereby accept subject to Installation and acceptance of improvements on behalf of the public any of the streets, paths, or easements shown thereon as dedicated to public use. 3.That said subdivision agreement is also APPROVED. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 3 of 3 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:1RES 2024- 308 Name: Status:Type:Consent Resolution Passed File created:In control:8/21/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:ADOPT Resolution No. 2024-308 approving and authorizing the Public Works Director, or designee, to fully close a portion of Highgate Road between Highgate Court and Sunset Drive, on October 4, 2024, from 7:00 a.m. through 5:00 p.m., for the purpose of replacement of a utility pole transformer and crossarm., Kensington area. (No fiscal impact) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally adoptedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To: Board of Supervisors From:Warren Lai, Public Works Director/Chief Engineer Report Title:Approve and Authorize to fully close a portion of Highgate Road on October 4, 2024 from 7:00 a.m. through 5:00 p.m., for the purpose of replacement of a utility pole transformer and crossarm, Kensington area. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: ADOPT Resolution approving and authorizing the Public Works Director, or designee, to fully close a portion of Highgate Road between Highgate Court and Sunset Drive, on October 4, 2024, from 7:00 a.m. through 5:00 p.m., for the purpose of replacement of a utility pole transformer and crossarm, Kensington area. (District I) FISCAL IMPACT: No fiscal impact. BACKGROUND: Pacific Gas & Electric Company (PG&E) is requesting a road closure to replace a utility pole transformer and crossarm. The construction team indicated that a road closure is necessary for the requested work to be done safely due to the narrow road. Applicant shall follow guidelines set forth by the Public Works Department. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Applicant will be unable to close the road for planned activities. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:RES 2024-308,Version:1 THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA and for Special Districts, Agencies and Authorities Governed by the Board IN THE MATTER OF Approving and Authorizing the Public Works Director, or designee, to fully close a portion of Highgate Road between Highgate Court and Sunset Drive, on October 4, 2024, from 7:00 a.m. through 5:00 p.m., for the purpose of replacement of a utility pole transformer and crossarm, Kensington area. (District I) RC24-47 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that permission is granted to Pacific Gas & Electric Company to fully close a portion of Highgate Road between Highgate Court and Sunset Drive, except for emergency traffic, local residents, US Postal Service and garbage trucks, on October 4, 2024, for the period of 7:00 a.m. through 5:00 p.m., subject to the following conditions: 1.Traffic will be detoured via roads identified in a traffic control plan, reviewed by the Public Works Department. Emergency vehicles, residents within the event area and essential services will be allowed access as required. 2.All signing to be in accordance with the California Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. 3.Pacific Gas & Electric Company shall comply with the requirements of the Ordinance Code of Contra Costa County. 4.Provide the County with a Certificate of Insurance in the amount of $1,000,000.00 for Comprehensive General Public Liability which names the County as an additional insured prior to permit issuance. 5.Obtain approval for the closure from the Kensington Police Department, and the Kensington Fire Protection District. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:1RES 2024- 305 Name: Status:Type:Consent Resolution Passed File created:In control:8/26/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:ADOPT Resolution No. 2024-305 ratifying the prior decision of the Public Works Director, or designee, to fully close a portion of Fourth Avenue South between High Street and Ironwood Drive, on September 5, 2024, from 8:00 a.m. through 4:00 p.m., for the purpose of setting up and operating a crane in the road right of way to deliver an accessory dwelling unit to the property, Pacheco area. (No fiscal impact) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally adoptedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To: Board of Supervisors From:Warren Lai, Public Works Director/Chief Engineer Report Title:Ratify the prior decision to fully close a portion of Fourth Avenue South on September 5, 2024, from 8:00 a.m. through 4:00 p.m., Pacheco area. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: ADOPT Resolution ratifying the prior decision of the Public Works Director, or designee, to fully close a portion of Fourth Avenue South between High Street and Ironwood Drive, on September 5, 2024, from 8:00 a.m. through 4:00 p.m., for the purpose of setting up and operating a crane in the road right-of-way to deliver an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) to the property, Pacheco area. (District V) FISCAL IMPACT: No fiscal impact. BACKGROUND: This item was previously approved by the Board on July 23, 2024. The applicant has provided a revised closure date due to a schedule change. The applicant has requested the road closure to park trucks and stage the placement of an ADU on the subject property. The closure will facilitate the setup and operation of a crane from the roadway to place the ADU on the property. The closure is necessary to guarantee access to the subject property and to ensure traffic safety while operating the crane. The applicant shall follow guidelines set forth by the Public Works Department. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:RES 2024-305,Version:1 Applicant will be unable to close the road for planned activities. :Larry Gossett-Engineering Services, Kellen O’Connor-Engineering Services, Bob Hendry-Engineering Services, Devon Patel- Engineering Services, Marke Smith-Engineering Services, Chris Lau-Maintenance, CHP, Sheriff- Patrol Division Commander THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA and for Special Districts, Agencies and Authorities Governed by the Board IN THE MATTER OF Ratifying the prior decision of the Public Works Director, or designee, to fully close a portion of Fourth Avenue South between High Street and Ironwood Drive, on September 5, 2024, from 8:00 a.m. through 4:00 p.m., for the purpose of setting up and operating a crane in the road right of way to deliver an accessory dwelling unit to the property, Pacheco area. (District V) RC24-48 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that permission is granted to ADORE Homes, Inc. to fully close a portion of Fourth Avenue South between High Street and Ironwood Drive, except for emergency traffic, local residents, US Postal Service and garbage trucks, on September 5, 2024, for the period of 8:00 a.m. through 4:00 p.m., subject to the following conditions: 1.Traffic will be detoured via roads identified in a traffic control plan, reviewed by the Public Works Department. Emergency vehicles, residents within the event area and essential services will be allowed access as required. 2.All signing to be in accordance with the California Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. 3.ADORE Homes, Inc. shall comply with the requirements of the Ordinance Code of Contra Costa County. 4.Provide the County with a Certificate of Insurance in the amount of $1,000,000.00 for Comprehensive General Public Liability which names the County as an additional insured prior to permit issuance. 5.Obtain approval for the closure from the Sheriff’s Department, the California Highway Patrol and the Fire District. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:1RES 2024- 306 Name: Status:Type:Consent Resolution Passed File created:In control:8/26/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:ADOPT Resolution No. 2024-306 approving and authorizing the Public Works Director, or designee, to fully close a portion of San Pablo Dam Road, between El Portal Drive and Appian Way, on September 15, 2024, from 6:00 a.m. through 7:00 p.m., for the purpose of the 29th Annual El Sobrante Stroll, El Sobrante area. (No fiscal impact) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally adoptedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To: Board of Supervisors From:Warren Lai, Public Works Director/Chief Engineer Report Title:Approve and Authorize to fully close a portion of San Pablo Dam Road on September 15, 2024, from 6:00 a.m. through 7:00 p.m., El Sobrante area. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: ADOPT Resolution approving and authorizing the Works Director, or designee, to fully close a portion of San Pablo Dam Road, between El Portal Drive and Appian Way, on September 15, 2024, from 6:00 a.m. through 7:00 p.m., for the purpose of the 29th Annual El Sobrante Stroll, El Sobrante area. (District I) FISCAL IMPACT: No fiscal impact. BACKGROUND: The El Sobrante Chamber of Commerce is requesting a road closure on San Pablo Dam Road for the 29 th Annual Street Fair and Parade. The road closure is being requested to increase pedestrian safety during the event. El Sobrante Chamber of Commerce shall follow guidelines set forth by the Public Works Department. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Applicant will be unable to close the road for planned activities. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 3 powered by Legistar™ File #:RES 2024-306,Version:1 :Larry Gossett-Engineering Services, Kellen O’Connor-Engineering Services, Bob Hendry-Engineering Services, Devon Patel- Engineering Services, Marke Smith-Engineering Services, Chris Lau-Maintenance, CHP, Sheriff- Patrol Division Commander THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA and for Special Districts, Agencies and Authorities Governed by the Board IN THE MATTER OF Approving and Authorizing the Public Works Director, or designee, to fully close a portion of San Pablo Dam Road between El Portal Drive and Appian Way, on September 15, 2024, from 6:00 a.m. through 7:00 p.m., for the purpose of the 29th Annual El Sobrante Stroll, El Sobrante area. (District I) RC24-50 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that permission is granted to the El Sobrante Chamber of Commerce to fully close San Pablo Dam Road, except for emergency traffic, local residents, US Postal Service and garbage trucks, on September 15, 2024 for the period of 6:00 a.m. through 7:00 p.m., subject to the following conditions: 1.Traffic will be detoured via roads identified in a traffic control plan, reviewed by the Public Works Department. Emergency vehicles, residents within the event area and essential services will be allowed access as required. 2.All signing to be in accordance with the California Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. 3.El Sobrante Chamber of Commerce shall comply with the requirements of the Ordinance Code of Contra Costa County. 4.Provide the County with a Certificate of Insurance in the amount of $1,000,000.00 for Comprehensive General Public Liability which names the County as an additional insured prior to permit issuance. 5.Obtain approval for the closure from the Sheriff’s Office, the California Highway Patrol and the Fire District. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 3 powered by Legistar™ File #:RES 2024-306,Version:1 6.El Sobrante Chamber of Commerce shall maintain a 20-foot wide emergency vehicle lane at all times through the entire length of the closure. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 3 of 3 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2756 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/21/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:Acting as the governing body of the Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District, APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Chief Engineer, or designee, to execute an agreement with City of Martinez, to install a stream gauge and monitoring equipment in Alhambra Creek on the Ward Street bridge crossing, and water depth sensor near the Marina Vista Avenue bridge, in Martinez, and to reimburse the District up to $30,000 for equipment costs and pay the District $2,500 annually, subject to increase, to maintain and monitor the equipment during the period from July 23, 2024, through July 31, 2042. (100% Flood Control District Funds) Attachments:, Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Warren Lai, Public Works Director/Chief Engineer Report Title:Agreement for Stream Gauge Services with City of Martinez ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: Acting as the governing body of the Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District, APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Chief Engineer,or designee,to execute an agreement with City of Martinez, to install a stream gauge and monitoring equipment in Alhambra Creek,on the Ward Street bridge crossing and water depth sensor near the Marina Vista Avenue bridge,in Martinez,and to reimburse the District up to $30,000 for equipment costs and pay the District $2,500 annually,subject to increase,to maintain and monitor the equipment during the period from July 23,2024,through July 31,2042.(District V)(Project No.:7505- 6F8156, DCD-CP# 24-17) DETERMINE if the activity qualifies for a California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)Class 3 and Class 6 Categorical Exemptions, pursuant to Article 19, Sections 15303 and 15306 of the CEQA Guidelines, and DIRECT the Director of the Department of Conservation and Development (DCD),or designee,to file a CEQA Notice of Exemption (NOE) with the County Clerk, and AUTHORIZE the Chief Engineer,or designee,to arrange for payment of a $25 fee to DCD for processing,and a $50 fee to the County Clerk for filing the NOE. FISCAL IMPACT: 100%Flood Control District funds.City will pay District for stream gauge services and reimburse actual costs CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2756,Version:1 for equipment and installation. BACKGROUND: The District monitors the collection of rain and stream gauges and precipitation recorder data,which also includes maintenance of rain and stream gauges throughout Contra Costa County.The City of Martinez (City) desires for the District to install and maintain a stream gauge at Alhambra Creek on the Ward Street bridge crossing and water depth sensor near the Marina Vista Avenue bridge in Martinez.Under the agreement,the City will reimburse the District for the cost to purchase and install the equipment,not to exceed $30,000.The City will pay the District up to $2,500 for monitoring.This amount will increase each year based on the change in the Engineering News Record (ENR)for the San Francisco Bay region.The City will reimburse the cost to remove the equipment following termination of the agreement. Under the agreement each party agrees to indemnify and defend the other party from liabilities that arise from the indemnifying party’s negligence or willful misconduct.District staff recommend that the Board approve the execution of the agreement to ensure the District can collect important rain and weather-related information. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If the agreement is not approved,the District will not be able to install and monitor the stream gauge equipment for data collecting. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ \\PW-DATA\grpdata\engsvc\ENVIRO\Client Divisions\Real Estate\License Agreement-Stream Gauge-Martinez (WO8156)\CEQA\DCD\CP#24-17 NOE-License Agreement-Martinez Stream Gauge Installation_8-1-24.docx Revised 2018 CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT Notice of Exemption To:Office of Planning and Research P.O. Box 3044, Room 113 Sacramento, CA 95812-3044 From:Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development 30 Muir Road Martinez, CA 94553 County Clerk, County of Contra Costa Project Title:License Agreement for Stream Gauge Monitoring in Martinez, Project #: WO8156, CP#: 24-17 Project Applicant:Contra Costa County Public Works Dept., 255 Glacier Drive, Martinez CA 94553 Main: (925) 313-2000, Contact: Alex Nattkemper (925) 313-2364 Project Location: Ward Street and Marina Vista Avenue bridges over Alhambra Creek, Martinez, Contra Costa County, APN: 373-193-017 and 373-270-002 Lead Agency: Department of Conservation and Development, 30 Muir Road, Martinez, CA 94553 Main: (925) 655-2705, Contact: Syd Sotoodeh (925) 655-2877 Project Description:The Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District will enter into a License Agreement with the City of Martinez to install equipment to collect and analyze stream level data on Alhambra Creek (also known as Arroyo del Hombre)to assess the creek’s hydraulic capacity. The project consists of installing a radar-based stream gauge sensor (non-water contact)and associated small equipment at the Ward Street bridge. In addition, one small in-stream water depth sensor will be installed downstream near the Marina Vista Avenue bridge to collect wintertime stream level data. The sensor will be housed in a narrow-perforated metal pipe that will be mounted to an approximately 4-foot-long steel bar driven into the stream bed in a discreet location. A second identical sensor will be installed out of the water nearby as an atmospheric pressure reference. The installation will be done by manual labor and hand tools. Work is anticipated to occur by October 2024 and take approximately one day. Temporary traffic control and tree and vegetation trimming may be necessary. The in-stream sensor will be accessed periodically, at least once a year,to retrieve the data it collects. Exempt Status: Ministerial Project (Sec. 21080[b][1]; 15268)Categorical Exemption (Sec. 15303 and 15306) Declared Emergency (Sec. 21080[b][3]; 15269[a])General Rule of Applicability (Sec. 15061[b][3]) Emergency Project (Sec. 21080[b][4]; 15269[b][c])Other Statutory Exemption (Sec. ) Reasons why project is exempt:The activity consists of installing small new equipment for stream data collection which does not result in a significant disturbance to an environmental resource pursuant to Article 19, Section 15303 and 15306 of the CEQA Statute and Guidelines. If filed by applicant: 1. Attach certified document of exemption finding. 2. Has a Notice of Exemption been filed by the public agency approving the project? Yes No Signature:Date: _____________ Title: Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development Signed by Lead Agency Signed by Applicant Aug. 8, 2024 Senior Planner \\PW-DATA\grpdata\engsvc\ENVIRO\Client Divisions\Real Estate\License Agreement-Stream Gauge-Martinez (WO8156)\CEQA\DCD\CP#24-17 NOE-License Agreement-Martinez Stream Gauge Installation_8-1-24.docx Revised 2018 AFFIDAVIT OF FILING AND POSTING I declare that on I received and posted this notice as required by California Public Resources Code Section 21152(c). Said notice will remain posted for 30 days from the filing date. Signature Title Applicant Department of Fish and Wildlife Fees Due Public Works Department De Minimis Finding - $0 255 Glacier Drive County Clerk - $50 Martinez, CA 94553 Conservation and Development - $25 Attn: Alex Nattkemper Environmental Services Division Phone: (925) 313-2364 Total Due:$75 Receipt #: Richmond AntiochConcord Oakley Hercules Danville Pittsburg Lafayette Pinole Orinda San Ramon Walnut Creek Martinez Brentwood Moraga Pleasant Hill Clayton El Cerrito San Pablo /Project Locations Contra Costa County California Figure 1 License Agreement-Stream Gauge-Martinez 010205 Miles Martinez Regional Shoreline §¨¦680 4 Carquinez Strait Regional Shoreline Howe RdFrankli n C a n y o n R d Morello AveAlhambra AveWaterfront Rd Marin a Vi sta A v e Ce n t e r A v e Pac h e c o B l v d UP Railr o a d BNSF Railr oa d Martinez A l h am b r a C r e e k License Agreement-Stream Gauge-Martinez 010.5 Miles ¯ Project Locations Figure 2 Project Locations Proposed Hobo gauge general deployment location - During winter flow periods Proposed stream gauge location. - Alhambra Ck @ Ward Street. Equipment Box Radar Sensor on bracket arm Conduit Solar Panel and cell antenna secured to box. Interpretive Panel Solar Panel and possibly cell antenna. Location is best for sun exposure. Equipment Box (other side of railing) Radar Sensor on bracket arm Interpretive Panel Equipment Box Conduit Radar Sensor on bracket arm attached to bridge railing. Interpretive Panel Solar Panel and possibly cell antenna. Location is best for sun exposure. Pole to support solar panel and antenna. Agreement for Stream Gauge Services by and between the Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District and the City of Martinez (Alhambra Creek) This Agreement for Stream Gauge Services (this “Agreement”) is made and entered into as of ______________ (the “Effective Date”), by and between the City of Martinez, a municipal corporation (“AGENCY”), and the Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District, a flood control district(“DISTRICT”), each a “Party” and, collectively, the “Parties”. RECITALS A. AGENCY requires the services of staff experienced in providing stream gauge services. B. DISTRICT has the necessary experience in providing these services and has affirmed its willingness and ability to perform such work under the terms of this Agreement. AGREEMENT NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of these recitals and mutual covenants contained herein, the Parties agree as follows: 1. Scope of Work. AGENCY hereby retains DISTRICT to perform, and DISTRICT agrees to render those services set forth in Exhibit A attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference (the “Services”), in accordance with the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement. 2. Term. The term (“Term”) of this Agreement commences on the Effective Date, and it expires July 31, 2042, unless it is sooner terminated in accordance with Section 10 (Termination). 3. License. AGENCY grants to DISTRICT, for use by DISTRICT, its officers, employees, agents, and contractors, a license to install, monitor, maintain, remove, and replace the Equipment, as defined in Exhibit A, at the Site, as defined in Exhibit A. 4. Compensation. a. Equipment. AGENCY shall reimburse DISTRICT for all costs associated with the procurement of all Equipment, as defined in Exhibit A and any labor by DISTRICT staff and DISTRICT contractors to install said Equipment, not to exceed the payment limit of Thirty Thousand Dollars ($30,000). All DISTRICT labor under this Agreement will be charged at the fully-burdened hourly rates for the classifications of the employees performing the installation. The actual cost of any DISTRICT contractor labor shall be charged to AGENCY, without markup. b. Services. In addition to reimbursement for Equipment under Section 4(a), the maximum amount payable for the Services described in Exhibit A, Section B, is Two Thousand Four Hundred dollars ($2,400) per fiscal year (July 1 to June 30). On July 1, 2025, and on each July 1 thereafter, the maximum amount payable for Services during that fiscal year will increase by the percentage change in the Engineering News Record’s (“ENR”) Construction Cost Index for the San Francisco Bay Area for the12-month period ending on the April 30th immediately preceding the July 1 when the increase takes effect. c. Invoices. Following the end of each fiscal year, DISTRICT will invoice AGENCY for all Equipment procured and Services performed by DISTRICT during that fiscal year. AGENCY will make payment within 30 days after the date an invoice is given to AGENCY. No other compensation for the Equipment or Services will be allowed except as this Agreement may be amended to provide therefor. d. AGENCY’s payment obligations under this Section 4 shall survive the termination or expiration of the Agreement. 5. Status of DISTRICT and AGENCY. DISTRICT will perform the Services as an independent contractor, free from the control and direction of AGENCY, in pursuit of DISTRICT's independent purposes, and not as an employee of AGENCY. 6. Indemnification. a. DISTRICT Indemnity. DISTRICT will hold harmless, defend, and indemnify AGENCY and its officers, agents, and employees from and against any and all claims, demands, costs, and liabilities including reasonable attorneys' fees (collectively, “Liabilities”), but only to the extent the Liabilities arise out of or are in any way connected with negligence or willful misconduct of the DISTRICT, its officers, employees, or contractors while performing Services under this Agreement. . b. Agency Indemnity. AGENCY will hold harmless, defend, and indemnify DISTRICT and its officers, agents, and employees from and against any and all Liabilities, but only to the extent the Liabilities arise out of or are in any way connected with the negligence or willful misconduct of the AGENCY, its officers, employees, or contractors with performing the AGENCY’s obligations under this Agreement. c. Survival. The obligations in this Section 6 shall survive the termination or expiration of this Agreement. 7. Insurance. Each Party shall, at its own expense, procure and maintain in full force at all times during the term of this Agreement the following insurance: a. Commercial General Liability Coverage. Commercial general liability coverage with limits of no less than Two Million Dollars ($2,000,000) aggregate limit for bodily injury, personal injury, and property damage. b. Automobile Liability Coverage. Automobile liability coverage covering all vehicles used in the performance of this Agreement for at least One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) combined single limit per occurrence for bodily injury, personal injury, and property damage. c. Compliance with State Workers' Compensation Requirements. Each Party will insure itself against liability for Workers' Compensation pursuant to the provisions of California Labor Code section 3700, et. seq. and shall at all times, upon demand, furnish proof that Workers' Compensation insurance is being maintained in full force and effect in accordance with California Labor Code. d. Other Insurance Provisions. The insurance of each Party will be in force during the term of this Agreement and will not be cancelled without thirty (30) days prior written notice to the other Party by certified mail. AGENCY or DISTRICT (as applicable), its officers, agents, and employees will be named as additional insureds on the other Party's commercial general and automobile liability policies. Each Party will provide a certificate of insurance or evidence of self-insurance to the other Party. e. Self-Insurance. Each Party, at its sole discretion, may satisfy its insurance obligations stated above by providing satisfactory evidence that it is self- insured and has sufficient financial resources to meet the insurance obligations stated herein. 8. Compliance With Laws. The Parties will comply with all applicable local, state, and federal laws and regulations, including but not limited to those related to air pollution control, and those prohibiting discrimination and harassment, and those related to the payment of prevailing wages. 9. Assignment. Neither Party may assign this Agreement or any part of it, or any monies due or to become due under it, without the prior written consent of the other Party. 10. Termination. Either Party may terminate this Agreement at any time after a discussion between the DISTRICT’s Chief Engineer, or designee, and the CITY’s City Engineer, or designee, and following 30 days’ advance written notice to the other Party. AGENCY will ’satisfy all of its financial obligations under Section 4 (Compensation) that accrue prior to the termination date. a. At the end of the Term, or if AGENCY decides to discontinue the stream gauge operation before termination, for any reason, DISTRICT shall, upon written direction from AGENCY, remove the Equipment at AGENCY’s expense within 60 days. Equipment will be provided to the AGENCY following removal, except to the extent Section 10(b) provides otherwise. The cost to remove the Equipment will be charged to AGENCY separate from costs in Section 4 (Compensation), and the AGENCY shall pay the cost to remove the Equipment within 30 days after receiving an invoice and demand for payment from the DISTRICT. The AGENCY’s obligation to pay the DISTRICT’s cost to remove the Equipment under this Section 10(a) shall survive the termination or expiration of this Agreement. b. Upon termination of this Agreement, if DISTRICT desires to take ownership of the Equipment from AGENCY, and if AGENCY agrees, DISTRICT will reimburse AGENCY for the original Equipment costs, depreciating the costs of the Equipment by 10% per year for up to ten (10) years after installation. The cost to purchase any Equipment will be paid to AGENCY within 30 days following demand for payment by AGENCY. The DISTRICT’s obligation to pay AGENCY for any purchased Equipment under this Section 10(b) shall survive the termination or expiration of this Agreement. c. DISTRICT may apply for a permit or enter into a separate agreement with AGENCY to keep purchased Equipment at Site, as defined in Exhibit A. 11. Choice of Law. This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of California. 12. Authority. The individuals executing this Agreement on behalf of the Parties each represent and warrant that they have the legal power, right and actual authority to bind their respective Party to the terms and conditions of this Agreement. 13. Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in counterparts that, together, constitute one and the same instrument. [Remainder of page left blank; signatures on next page(s).] CONTRA COSTA COUNTY FLOOD CONTROL AND WATER CONSERVATON DISTRICT: CITY OF MARTINEZ: By: ___________________ By: ___________________ Warren Lai Joe Enke Chief Engineer City Engineer APPROVED AS TO FORM: ATTEST: Thomas L. Geiger, County Counsel By: ___________________ By: ___________________ Name Name Deputy County Counsel City Clerk APPROVED AS TO FORM: By: ___________________ Name City Attorney Exhibit A A. Background The Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District (“DISTRICT”) collects and analyzes precipitation and stream level data. DISTRICT staff or its subcontractors maintain rain and stream gauge equipment throughout Contra Costa County. The City of Martinez (“AGENCY”) desires to collect and analyze stream level on Alhambra Creek (also known as Arroyo del Hombre) on the Ward Street bridge crossing in Martinez, California (“Site”). The DISTRICT and AGENCY have agreed, in a coordinated effort, to procure, install, operate, and maintain a stream gauge that will collect stream level data. Wintertime stream level data, collected at a downstream location, will also be collected using temporary depth sensors installed before and removed after the winter seasons. The purpose for the AGENCY is to assess the creek’s hydraulic capacity and the need for removing sediment and/or vegetation from the creek. B. Scope of Services 1. Task 1: Procurement of Equipment and Materials (a) DISTRICT shall purchase all necessary equipment and materials to build and install the stream gauge. Equipment and materials include, but are not limited to, the following (hereinafter referred to as “Equipment”): computerized equipment, batteries, cellular modem, radar-based water level sensors, signal wires, solar panel, cellular antenna, mast, staff gauge plates, bracket to support sensor and interpretive panel on bridge rail, equipment cabinet, two (2) HOBO sensors for wintertime stream level data collection at point downstream, and additional equipment and parts required for installation. All Equipment shall remain the property of AGENCY, except as provided in Section 10(b) of the Agreement. (b) AGENCY’s City Engineer, or designee, shall review and approve all materials to be placed, costs, and locations prior to DISTRICT proceeding with work. 2. Task 2: Installation of the Stream Gauge (a) DISTRICT shall install, or cause its subcontractor to install, Equipment at the Site, in a configuration approved in advance by the AGENCY’s City Engineer, or designee. (b) AGENCY shall provide all required permits and approvals required for Equipment installation, access, and operation of the stream gauge while the Equipment remains in place at no cost to the DISTRICT. 3. Task 3: Continued Operation and Maintenance of the Stream Gauge. DISTRICT shall perform, or cause its subcontractor to perform, continued operations and maintenance of the Equipment annually while stream data is desired by the AGENCY. 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2757 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/5/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:ACCEPT the 2024 Semi-Annual Report of Real Estate Delegation of Leases and Licenses dated January 1, 2024, through June 30, 2024, as recommended by the Public Works Director, Countywide. (100% Various Funds) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Warren Lai, Public Works Director/Chief Engineer Report Title:Accept the 2024 Semi-Annual Report of Real Estate Delegation of Leases and Licenses Dated January 1, 2024, through June 30, 2024. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: ACCEPT the 2024 Semi-Annual Report of Real Estate Delegation of Leases and Licenses dated January 1, 2024, through June 30, 2024, as recommended by the Public Works Director, to lease real property for use by the County or to obtain the use of real property for the County by license and to amend real property leases or licenses to permit improvements or alterations, or both, under certain circumstances, Countywide. FISCAL IMPACT: 100% Various County Department funds cover costs related to staff time and lease amounts. BACKGROUND: Pursuant to the Contra Costa County, Ordinance Code, Title 11, Division 1108, Chapter 1108-10.002, The Board of Supervisors authorizes the Public Works Director, or designee, to perform all acts necessary to lease or license real property for use by the County if the term does not exceed five (5) years and the rent does not exceed $7,500 per month and to amend real property leases or licenses to permit improvements or alterations, or both, under the following conditions: (1) the total cost under an amendment may not exceed $7,500; (2) an amendment may not extend the term of the lease or license; and (3) no more than two (2) amendments, not to exceed $7,500 each, may be made within a 12-month period. The Public Works Director shall submit a semi-annual report to the Board of Supervisors on each lease or license done pursuant to this section, including the interest acquired, its price, and the necessity for the lease or license, which is describe in the attached Semi-Annual Delegation of Leases and Licenses Report. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2757,Version:1 CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: The Board of Supervisors would not be informed of the leases and licenses accepted by the Public Works Director pursuant to Contra Costa County Ordinance Code. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 2024 Semi- Annual Delegation of Leases and Licenses Report January 1, 2024-June 30, 2024 Property Address City Purpose Lease Amount Term Owner 1340 Arnold Drive, Ste 110 Martinez Lease for Health Services Department - Health Services - Amendment $6,849.00 2/1/2024 - 4/30/2028 RPE Muir, LLC LEASES G:\realprop\BOARD ORDERS-STAFF REPORTS\2024\09-10-2024 Annual Report of RE Delegation of Leases and Licenses\2024 Jan-June Semi Annual Report of Delegation of Leases and Licenses *For Use by the County Only 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2758 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/8/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director, or designee, to execute a lease and to exercise subsequent renewal options with Lessor, Southport Land and Commercial Company, a California Corporation, for 3,692 square feet of office space located at 610 Court Street Martinez for County Detention Health Services for an initial term of five years with two two-year renewal options and a monthly rental rate of $6,941 in the first year with annual increases thereafter. (100% General Fund) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Warren Lai, Public Works Director/Chief Engineer Report Title:Lease at 610 Court Street Martinez ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director,or designee,to execute a lease and to exercise subsequent renewal options with Lessor,Southport Land and Commercial Company,a California Corporation for 3,692 square feet of office space located at 610 Court Street Martinez for County Detention Health Services for an initial term of five years with two two-year renewal options.The monthly rental rate in the first year is $6,940.96. FISCAL IMPACT: Lease costs are charged to HSD (100% General Fund) BACKGROUND: County Detention Health Services needs additional office space walking distance from the Martinez Detention Facility located at 1000 Ward Street Martinez.The need for additional office space is for Detention Health Administrative Staff to provide support to the clinical and administrative operations that are necessary to meet the goals of delivering quality patient care within four detention facilities.Administrative activities include contracts,budgeting,grants administration,personnel reception,and procurement.It is most cost effective to combine administrative staff with clinical administrative staff at one location.Clinical administrative staff at these operations must be near the Martinez Detention Facility because they make daily visits to the detention facility for case management and provide direct support to the Medical Director,Director of Nursing and Mental Health Chief.The daily case management visits to the detention center and being in close proximity to the detention center help to meet the Prison Law Office CalAIM mandates. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2758,Version:1 CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Not authorizing the execution of this lease and subsequent potential renewals will necessitate finding another suitable location,however,there are limited options within walking distance of the Martinez Detention Facility. Additionally,a delay in finding an acceptable location could lead to an interruption in services as staff would not have adequate office space to operate. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ LEASE Health Services Department 610 Court Street Second Floor Martinez, CA This lease is dated as of September 10th, 2024, and is between Southport Land and Commercial Company, a California Corporation (“Lessor”) and the County of Contra Costa, a political subdivision of the State of California (“County”). Recitals A. Lessor is the owner of the building located at 610 Court Street, Martinez, California (the “Building”). B. Lessor desires to lease to County and County desires to lease from Lessor a portion of the Building consisting the entire second floor and that portion of the first floor that serves as an entrance to the second floor (the “Premises”). The Premises is comprised of approximately 3,692 square feet of floor space. The first-floor lobby area that is part of the Premises is marked in yellow on the first-floor floor plan attached as Exhibit A. The parties therefore agree as follows: Agreement 1. Lease of Premises. In consideration of the rents and subject to the terms of this lease, Lessor hereby leases to County and County hereby leases from Lessor, the Premises. 2. Term. The “Term” of this lease is comprised of an Initial Term and, at County’s election, Renewal Terms, each as defined below. a. Initial Term. The “Initial Term” is five years, commencing on October 1, 2024 (the “Commencement Date”) and ending September 30, 2029. b. Renewal Terms. County has two options to renew this lease for a term of two years for each option (each, a “Renewal Term”) upon all the terms and conditions set forth in this lease. i. County will provide Lessor with written notice of its election to renew the lease 30 days prior to the end of the Term. However, if County fails to provide such notice, its right to renew the lease will not expire until fifteen working days after County’s receipt of Lessor’s written demand that County exercise or forfeit the option to renew. ii. Upon the commencement of a Renewal Term, all references to the Term of this lease will be deemed to mean the Term as extended pursuant to this Section. 3. Rent. County shall pay rent (“Rent”) to Lessor monthly in advance beginning on the Commencement Date. Rent is payable on the tenth day of each month during the Initial Term and, if applicable, the Renewal Terms, in the amounts set forth below: a. Initial Term. Period Monthly Rent October 1, 2024 – September 30, 2025 $6,940.96 October 1, 2025 – September 30, 2026 $7,149.19 October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027 $7,363.66 October 1, 2027 – September 30, 2028 $7,584.57 October 1, 2028 – September 30, 2029 $7,812.11 b. First Renewal Term. Period Monthly Rent October 1, 2029 – September 30, 2030 $8,046.47 October 1, 2030 – September 30, 2031 $8,287.87 c. Second Renewal Term. Period Monthly Rent October 1, 2031 – September 30, 2032 $8,536.51 October 1, 2032 – September 30, 2033 $8,792.60 Rent for any fractional month will be prorated and computed on a daily basis with each day’s rent equal to one-thirtieth (1/30) of the monthly Rent. 4. Tenant Improvements. Lessor, at its sole cost and expense, shall cause tenant improvements to be completed as described in Exhibit B to this lease. 5. Use. County may use the Premises for the purpose of conducting various functions of County and any other purpose permitted by law. 6. Obligation to Pay Utilities. County shall pay for and contract directly for electric service, telephone and internet data services provided to the Premises. Lessor shall pay for all water, sewer, and gas provided to the Building. 7. Janitorial Services, Refuse Collection and Carpet Cleaning. County shall contract directly for janitorial services within, and refuse collection services for, the Premises. County shall remove from the Building all refuse generated by the Premises, and take it to an off-site location. Except for one carpet cleaning at the inception of the lease (which Lessor is responsible for), County is responsible for any carpet cleaning in the Premises, using a dry-cleaning method. 8. Maintenance and Repairs. a. Lessor’s Duties: Roof, Exterior of Premises, Locks and Alarms. Lessor shall keep the roof and exterior of the Premises in good order, condition, and repair, and shall maintain the structural integrity of the Building, including the exterior doors and their fixtures, closers and hinges, exterior windows, glass and glazing, and all locks and key systems used in the Building, except the “buzz in” system for the Premises installed by the County. Lessor shall maintain the existing alarm system serving the common areas of the Building, but not any alarm system for the Premises. b. County Duties: Interior of Premises, Key and Alarm System. County shall keep and maintain the interior of the Premises in good order, condition and repair, but Lessor shall repair damage to the interior caused by its failure to maintain the exterior in good repair, including damage to the interior caused by roof leaks and/or interior and exterior wall leaks. The County may install and maintain a separate key and an alarm system, if deemed necessary by County, provided such key system can be operated with a master key and the County causes a copy of the master key to be stored in the fire department key box (known as a “Knox Box”) on the exterior of the Building. c. Building Systems. Lessor shall repair and maintain the electrical, lighting, water and plumbing systems in good order, condition and repair, except for light bulb replacement. d. Elevator. Lessor warrants the elevator is in good order, condition and repair upon commencement of the Lease. Lessor shall maintain and repair the elevator system. County understands that the elevator undergoes periodic maintenance (usually quarterly, but more often if necessary), and that the elevator is shut down during such maintenance, usually for less than one day. Lessor discloses that on at least one occasion, the elevator was shut down for several days while parts were on order, and such event could happen again. Lessor will provide notice at least 7 days in advance of scheduled maintenance. e. HVAC. Lessor shall maintain and repair the heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems. f. Exterior Lighting; Landscaping. Lessor shall maintain the exterior lighting system in good order, condition and repair. Lessor warrants that all landscaping at the Building is on City property and has been maintained by the City. g. Fire Extinguishers. Lessor shall provide required fire extinguishers to the Premises upon commencement of the Lease. Lessor shall replace fire extinguishers as needed. County is responsible for the inspection and maintenance of the fire extinguishers. h. Video Security System. Lessor warrants the existing video security system serving the sidewalk areas around the Building and the downstairs common area in the Building is in good order, condition and repair upon commencement of the Lease. County has the right to install an alternate video security system of its choice, at its sole cost and expense, as required. i. Services by Lessor. If County determines that the Premises is in need of maintenance, construction, remodeling or similar work that is beyond Lessor’s responsibilities under this Lease, at County’s request, Lessor shall perform the work at County’s expense. In performing the work, Lessor shall consult with County and use either licensed insured contractors or employees of Lessor. Lessor shall obtain County’s prior written approval of the scope, terms, and cost of any contracts. County may, by giving Lessor 30 days prior written notice, change the scope of work, terminate any or all work, or require that work be performed by a different contractor. j. Pest Control. County is responsible for any tenant caused pests within the Premises. Lessor is responsible for any pest control in the common areas of the Building. 9. Quiet Enjoyment. Provided County is in compliance with the material terms of this Lease, Lessor shall warrant and defend County in the quiet enjoyment and possession of the Premises during the Term. 10. Assignment and Sublease. County has the right to sublease the Premises or any part of the Premises at any time during the Term. County has the right to assign this Lease to any other governmental entity, and upon such assignment of the Lease by County, the County will have no further obligation under the Lease. Any assignment of the Lease to an assignee that is not a governmental entity shall require the approval of Lessor, which may be reasonably conditioned or denied. 11. Alterations; Fixtures and Signs. County may (i) make any lawful and proper minor alterations to the Premises and (ii) attach fixtures and signs (“County Fixtures”) in or upon the Premises. Any County Fixtures will remain the property of County and may be removed from the Premises by County at any time during the Term. Lessor shall permit reverse lettering to be placed on the inside glass entry door or sidelight glass to the Building entry and lobby area. County is responsible for the cost of all alterations and County Fixtures. All alterations and County Fixtures are subject to Lessor’s approval and must comply with existing code requirements. Any door lettering shall comply with all ordinances, rules and regulations of the City of Martinez. 12. Prior Possession. Prior to Commencement Date, County has the right to install fixtures, telephones, alarm systems, and other items required to prepare the Premises for County’s occupancy and to store furniture, supplies and equipment inside the Premises, provided such work and storage can be done without unduly interfering with Lessor’s completion of the tenant improvements. 13. Insurance. a. Liability Insurance. Throughout the Term, County shall maintain in full force and effect, at its sole expense, a general self-insurance program covering bodily injury (including death), personal injury, and property damage, including loss of use. County shall provide Lessor with a letter of self-insurance affirming the existence of the self-insurance program. b. Self-Insurance Exclusion. County’s self-insurance does not provide coverage for (i) areas to be maintained by Lessor under this Lease, or (ii) negligence, willful misconduct, or other intentional act, error or omission of Lessor, its officers, agents, or employees. 14. Surrender of Premises. On the last day of the Term, or sooner termination of this Lease, County shall peaceably and quietly leave and surrender to Lessor the Premises, along with appurtenances and fixtures at the Premises (except County Fixtures), all in good condition, ordinary wear and tear, damage by casualty, condemnation, acts of God and Lessor’s failure to make repairs required of Lessor excepted. County is not responsible for painting or for repairing or replacing any floor coverings in the Premises upon the expiration or earlier termination of this Lease. 15. Waste, Nuisance. County may not commit, or suffer to be committed, any waste upon the Premises, or any nuisance or other act or thing that may disturb the quiet enjoyment of any other occupant of the Building. 16. Inspection. Lessor, or its proper representative or contractor, may enter the Premises by prior appointment between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, holidays excepted, to determine that (i) the Premises is being reasonably cared for, (ii) no waste is being made and that all actions affecting the Premises are done in the manner best calculated to preserve the Premises, and (iii) County is in compliance with the terms and conditions of this Lease. Lessor may enter Premises by prior appointment between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, holidays excepted, to access the roof and vertical penetrations area for repairs and inspection. 17. Perilous Conditions. If the County’s Director of Public Works becomes aware of a perilous condition on the Premises that, in his or her opinion, substantially and significantly threatens the health and safety of County employees and/or invitees (a “Perilous Condition”), the Director of Public Works, or his or her designee, will immediately notify Lessor of the Perilous Condition and Lessor shall use best efforts to immediately eliminate the Perilous Condition. Lessor shall immediately address any condition reasonably constituting an emergency, whether Lessor learns of the condition through County or otherwise. If Lessor fails to address a Perilous Condition within twenty-four (24) hours after County’s notice or to immediately address an emergency, County may attempt to resolve the Perilous Condition or emergency. Lessor shall reimburse County for any costs incurred by County in addressing the Perilous Condition or emergency promptly upon receipt of County’s invoice. If failure of an HVAC unit should create a “Perilous Condition” hereunder, “address[ing] a Perilous Condition” shall mean that Lessor has contacted, and made an appointment with, an HVAC contractor, and is otherwise acting expeditiously in an attempt to rectify the situation. 18. Destruction. If damage occurs that causes a partial destruction of the Premises during the Term from any cause and repairs can be made within 60 days from the date of the damage under the applicable laws and regulations of government authorities, Lessor shall repair the damage promptly. Such partial destruction will not void this Lease, except that County will be entitled to a proportionate reduction in Rent while the repairs are being made. The proportionate reduction in Rent will be calculated by multiplying Rent by a fraction, the numerator of which is the number of square feet that are unusable by County and the denominator of which is the total number of square feet in the Premises. If repairs cannot be made in 60 days, County will have the option to terminate the Lease or request that Lessor make the repairs within a reasonable time, in which case, Lessor will make the repairs and Rent will be proportionately reduced as provided in the previous paragraph. This Lease will terminate in the event of the total destruction of the Premises. 19. Hazardous Material. Lessor warrants to County that Lessor does not have any knowledge of the presence of Hazardous Material (as defined below) or contamination of the Building or Premises in violation of environmental laws. Lessor shall defend, save, protect and hold County harmless from any loss arising out of the presence of any Hazardous Material on the Premises that was not brought to the Premises by or at the request of County, its agents, contractors, invitees or employees. Lessor acknowledges and agrees that County has no obligation to clean up or remediate, or contribute to the cost of cleanup or remediation, of any Hazardous Material unless such Hazardous Material is released, discharged or spilled on or about the Premises by County or any of its agents, employees, contractors, invitees or other representatives. The obligations of this Section shall survive the expiration or earlier termination of this Lease. “Hazardous Material” means any substance, material or waste, including lead-based paint, asbestos and petroleum (including crude oil or any fraction thereof), that is or becomes designated as a hazardous substance, hazardous waste, hazardous material, toxic substance, or toxic material under any federal, state or local law, regulation, or ordinance. 20. Indemnification. a. County. County shall defend, indemnify and hold Lessor harmless from County’s share of any and all claims, costs and liability for any damage, injury, or death of or to any person or the property of any person, including attorneys’ fees, caused by the willful misconduct or the negligent acts, errors, or omissions of County, its officers, agents or employees in using the Premises pursuant to this Lease, or the County’s performance under this Lease, except to the extent caused or contributed to by (i) the structural, mechanical, or other failure of buildings owned or maintained by Lessor, and/or (ii) the negligent acts, errors, or omissions of Lessor, its officers, agents, or employees. b. Lessor. Lessor shall defend, indemnify and hold County harmless from Lessor’s share of any and all claims, costs and liability for any damage, injury, or death of or to any person or the property of any person, including attorneys’ fees, caused by the willful misconduct or the negligent acts, errors or omissions of Lessor, its officers, agents, employees, with respect to the Premises, or Lessor’s performance under this Lease, or the Lessor’s performance, delivery or supervision of services at the Premises, or by the structural, mechanical or other failure of buildings owned or maintained by Lessor, except to the extent caused or contributed to by the negligent acts, errors, or omissions of County, its officers, agents, or employees. 21. Default. The occurrence of any of the following events is a default under this Lease: a. County. i. County’s failure to pay Rent within ten business days after receipt of a written notice of failure (a “Notice”) from Lessor to County; provided, however, that County will have additional time if its failure to pay Rent is due to circumstances beyond its reasonable control, including, without limitation, failure of the County’s Board of Supervisors to adopt a budget. In no event may such additional time exceed 75 days from receipt of a Notice. ii. County’s failure to comply with any other material term or provision of this Lease if the failure is not remedied within 30 days after receipt of a Notice from Lessor to County specifying the nature of the breach in reasonably sufficient detail; provided, however, if the default cannot reasonably be remedied within the 30 day period, then a default will not be deemed to occur until the occurrence of County’s failure to comply within the period of time that may be reasonably required to remedy the default, up to an aggregate of 90 days, provided County commences curing the default within 30 days and thereafter diligently proceeds to cure the default. b. Lessor. Lessor’s failure to perform any obligation under this Lease if the failure is not remedied within 30 days after receipt of a Notice from County to Lessor specifying the nature of the breach in reasonably sufficient detail; provided, however, if the breach cannot reasonably be remedied within the 30 day period, then a default will not be deemed to occur until the occurrence of Lessor’s failure to perform within the period of time that may be reasonably required to remedy the breach, up to an aggregate of 90 days, provided Lessor commences curing the breach within 30 days and thereafter diligently proceeds to cure the breach. 22. Remedies. a. Lessor. Upon the occurrence of a default by County, Lessor may, after giving County written notice of the default, and in accordance with due process of law, reenter and repossess the Premises and remove all persons and property from the Premises. b. County. Upon the occurrence of a default by Lessor, County may (i) terminate this Lease by giving written notice to Lessor and quit the Premises without further cost or obligation to County or (ii) proceed to repair or correct the failure and, at County’s option, either deduct the cost thereof from Rent due to Lessor, or invoice Lessor for the cost of repair, which invoice Lessor shall pay promptly upon receipt. 23. Notices. Any notice required or permitted under this Lease must be in writing and sent by overnight delivery service or registered or certified mail, postage prepaid and directed as follows: To Lessor: Southport Land and Commercial Co. Attn: David R. Fischer 1017 Green Lane Martinez, CA 94553 To County: Contra Costa County Public Works Department Attn: Principal Real Property Agent 255 Glacier Drive Martinez, CA 94553 Either party may at any time designate in writing a substitute address for the address set forth above and thereafter notices are to be directed to such substituted address. If sent in accordance with this Section, all notices will be deemed effective (i) the next business day, if sent by overnight courier, or (ii) three days after being deposited in the United States Postal system. 24. Limited "Force Majeure" Clause. Neither party shall be required to perform any non-monetary term, obligation, covenant or condition of this Lease (collectively the "Obligations"), if, and to the extent such performance is delayed, prevented or caused by the occurrence of an event (herein collectively an "Event") that: (i) is not reasonably foreseeable; and (ii) is not otherwise caused by, or under the control of, the party invoking this section. As to the party whose performance has been delayed or prevented, performance by such party shall nonetheless be required as soon as practical after the Event. The party whose performance has been delayed or prevented shall: (i) take reasonable steps to minimize the delay caused by the Event; (ii) substantially fulfill all non-excused Obligations hereunder; and (iii) notify, as soon as practical under the circumstances, the other party of the Event. 25. Americans with Disabilities Act. The County is hereby notified of the existence of the Americans with Disabilities Act and the California regulations implementing that Act, (herein collectively the "ADA"). California Civil Code section 1938, subd. (a), provides that "[a] commercial property owner or lessor shall state on every lease form or rental agreement executed on or after January 1, 2017, whether or not the subject premises have undergone inspection by a Certified Access Specialist (CASp)." Accordingly, Lessor makes the following disclosure: The Premises has NOT undergone inspection by a Certified Access Specialist (CASp). Civil Code section 1938, subd. (e), requires the following disclosure: “A Certified Access Specialist (CASp) can inspect the subject premises and determine whether the subject premises comply with all of the applicable construction-related accessibility standards under state law. Although state law does not require a CASp inspection of the subject premises, the commercial property owner or lessor may not prohibit the lessee or tenant from obtaining a CASp inspection of the subject premises for the occupancy or potential occupancy of the lessee or tenant, if requested by the lessee or tenant. The parties shall mutually agree on the arrangements for the time and manner of the CASp inspection, the payment of the fee for the CASp inspection, and the cost of making any repairs necessary to correct violations of construction-related accessibility standards within the premises.” 26. Retrofit Clause; Rent Abatement; Lessor Duty to Mitigate. Should the City of Martinez or any other entity with jurisdiction require any retrofit work to the Building, Lessor may require the County to temporarily vacate portions of the Premises while the retrofit work is being performed, in which event: (i) Lessor shall provide the County with at least 180 days’ advance notice of the need to relocate, (ii) rent for the Premises will be abated on a “per square foot and per day” basis for that portion of the Premises the County in not able to occupy, and (iii) Lessor will be responsible for the cost of moving the County’s fixtures and furniture within the Building. Lessor shall make reasonable efforts to minimize any inconvenience to the County, including, for example, by performing any required work in phases, such as one suite or one office at a time. If retrofit work causes the County to relocate for the remaining term of the lease or the Premises to be permanently uninhabitable, Lessor will be responsible for the cost of relocating the County to a comparable property in the general vicinity of the Building, which costs would include, but are not limited to, moving company fees, storage fees, any increase in rent, relocation of IT services, and any other costs associated with minimizing County’s service disruptions. 27. Successors and Assigns. This Lease binds and inures to the benefit of the heirs, successors, and assigns of the parties hereto. 28. Holding Over. Any holding over after the Term of this Lease is a tenancy from month to month and is subject to the terms of this Lease. 29. Time is of the Essence. In fulfilling all terms and conditions of this Lease, time is of the essence. 30. Governing Law. The laws of the State of California govern all matters arising out of this Lease. 31. Severability. In the event that any provision of this Lease is held to be invalid or unenforceable in any respect, the validity and enforceability of the remaining provisions of this Lease will not in any way be affected or impaired. [Remainder of Page Intentionally Left Blank] 32. Entire Agreement; Construction; Modification. Neither party has relied on any promise or representation not contained in this Lease. All previous conversations, negotiations, and understandings are of no further force or effect. This Lease is not to be construed as if it had been prepared by one of the parties, but rather as if both parties prepared it. This Lease may be modified only by a writing signed by both parties. The parties are executing this Lease as of the date set forth in the introductory paragraph. COUNTY OF CONTRA COSTA, a Southport Land and Commercial Company, political subdivision of the State of a California Corporation California By: _______________________ By: _______________________ Warren Lai David R. Fischer, President Director of Public Works RECOMMENDED FOR APPROVAL: By: ________________________ Alexander Friedman, Secretary By: _______________________ Jessica L. Dillingham Principal Real Property Agent By: _______________________ Jessica Castro Associate Real Property Agent APPROVED AS TO FORM THOMAS L. GEIGER, COUNTY COUNSEL By: _______________________ Kathleen M. Andrus Deputy County Counsel G:\realprop\LEASE MANAGEMENT\MARTINEZ\610 COURT ST - TXXXXX\LEASES\610 Court Street - Lease - FINAL.docx Exhibit A First Floor EXHIBIT A Exhibit B Tenant Improvements: Final furniture floor plan will be provided for reference. Telecom/ IT Data Room: 1) Install Flooring – Static Dissipative Tiles (SDT) or vinyl anti-static material. 2) Move and remove bookcases – three bookcases in the corner removed and the remaining one on the right side of the wall are to be moved next to the door for storage use. 3) Install plywood - 4 ft. (width) X 8 ft. (height) minimum size, ¾ inch thick and fire-retardant type plywood installed on the back wall of the room. 4) Install outlet on dedicated 20-amp circuit which may require a dedicated NEMA5-20 wall outlet. 5) Install busbar for subpanel with #6 ground wire with busbar and 3-inch x 6-inch minimum with mounting holes. 6) Install second vent for increased airflow and ventilation to divert air flow from adjacent offices. 7) Install a door vent for air flow to move out of the IT room. Lactation/ Wellness Room (former file storage room): 1) Remove the above head shelving, paint and cover up holes in the wall. 2) Remove one of the shelves against the far wall, paint and cover up holes in the wall. 3) Install one outlet for the miniature refrigerator. Carpet Cleaning throughout the suite. Open office #2: 1) Remove credenza, paint and cover up holes in the wall and install missing carpet underneath where the credenza was placed. 2) Install outlet along right side of the wall when entering the office from the hallway. Dimensions on the final furniture plan are 9 ft. from the entrance wall. 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2759 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/12/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director, or designee, to execute a lease with the State of California, Department of Transportation (Caltrans), to authorize Caltrans to access and use a portion of the County’s Nadeen Peak telecommunications facility through an initial ten-year term beginning October 1, 2024, for payment to the County at an initial monthly fee of $4,455, with annual increases, Crockett area. (100% General Fund) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Warren Lai, Public Works Director/Chief Engineer Report Title:Lease with State of California, Department of Transportation (Caltrans) for a portion of Nadeen Peak in Crockett, California. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director,or designee,to execute a lease with the State of California,Department of Transportation (Caltrans),to authorize Caltrans to access and use a portion of the County’s Nadeen Peak telecommunications facilities during an initial ten-year term beginning October 1,2024, for payment to the County at an initial monthly fee of $4,455,with annual increases,as recommended by the Public Works Director. FISCAL IMPACT: 100% General Fund BACKGROUND: The County entered into a long-term lease with a private landowner (Master Lease),which expires July 31, 2081,that permits the County to maintain a telecommunications facility and tower on the property off Cummings Skyway in Crockett,identified as Assessor’s Parcel No.354-300-007,commonly referred to as Nadeen Peak. The County,as sub-lessor,and Caltrans,as sub-lessee,are parties to a lease dated August 12,2003,for a CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2759,Version:1 The County,as sub-lessor,and Caltrans,as sub-lessee,are parties to a lease dated August 12,2003,for a portion of Nadeen Peak (Original Lease).On July 31,2023,the parties agreed to extend the term of the Original Lease on a month-to-month basis.The County and Caltrans wish to terminate the Original Lease and enter into a long-term lease that will have an initial term that begins on October 1,2024,and expires on September 30, 2034, with three five-year options to renew. Under the terms of the Original Lease,Caltrans constructed and installed site improvements that included a 120 -foot high,four-legged antenna tower,a 12’x 10’structure used to house Caltrans’assorted communications equipment,a fence,and associated improvements on the Property.The parties agreed that,in lieu of Caltrans paying rent during a portion of the term of the Original Lease,these site improvements would become the property of the County when they were completed. The new lease requires Caltrans to pay the County an initial monthly rent of $4,455,which will increase 3% annually.The new lease could be extended through September 30,2049.Either party may terminate the new lease upon advance written notice to the other party. The new lease allows Caltrans to maintain critical communications equipment,and it adequately compensates the County for the use of its facility.For these reasons,the Department recommends that the Board approve entering into the new lease with Caltrans. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: County and Caltrans would continue to operate within the terms of the existing month-to-month lease. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2760 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/13/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Integrated Monitored Solutions, Inc., dba Deploy Surveillance in an amount not to exceed $900,000 for surveillance camera and monitoring services for the period September 10, 2024 through September 10, 2027, Countywide. (80% Measure X, 10% Clean CA Grant, 10% Road Funds) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Warren Lai, Public Works Director/Chief Engineer Report Title:Contract with Integrated Monitored Solutions, Inc., dba Deploy Surveillance for surveillance camera and monitoring services, Countywide. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director, or designee, to execute a contract with Integrated Monitored Solutions, Inc., dba Deploy Surveillance in an amount not to exceed $900,000 for surveillance camera and monitoring services for the period September 10, 2024 through September 10, 2027, Countywide. FISCAL IMPACT: Funded by 80% Measure X, 10% Clean CA Grant, 10% Road Funds. BACKGROUND: The County faces the difficult task of addressing the numerous adverse effects of illegal dumping in unincorporated areas of the County. The County’s Illegal Dumping Initiative has developed a number of strategies to address illegal dumping, one of which is to install surveillance cameras to combat illegal dumping (Strategy #46). The County’s goal in installing surveillance cameras is to deter potential illegal dumpers before the crime is committed, alert law enforcement to illegal dumping in progress, and gather video evidence, including license plate numbers, vehicle descriptions, suspect descriptions, and the type of dumped items, which can lead to future prosecutions of suspects. This contract is to install surveillance cameras at specified locations, maintain and monitor the video feeds from the cameras, and perform related services. The County completed solicitation for surveillance camera and monitoring services on November 2, 2023 (Bid 2309-686). No statements of qualifications were received in response to the request for qualifications that was advertised on October 4, 2023. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2760,Version:1 Subsequently, Public Works Department staff explored the use of mobile surveillance units and identified four companies that provide surveillance camera and monitoring services. Of the four companies, two companies were chosen to further explore the services they provided and conducted 30-day trials with each of those companies. The two trials confirmed the abilities of each company to leverage surveillance camera technology, utilize artificial intelligence to generate alerts, and provide 24/7 monitoring of roadsides for illegal dumping activity. The mobile surveillance units proved to reduce illegal dumping activity, record video of active illegal dumping, and capture evidence leading to law enforcement action. After the trials, Integrated Monitored Solutions, Inc. dba Deploy Surveillance proved to be the best qualified to provide the services being identified and was chosen to enter into a contract. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Negative action will remove an available strategic tool in addressing the issue of illegal dumping. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2761 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/14/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director, or designee, to execute a third amendment to a lease with RPE Muir, LLC for approximately 1,912 square feet of office space located at 1350 Arnold Drive, Suites 102 and 103, in Martinez, to add three one-year options to renew, at an initial annual rent of $43,594, with annual increases thereafter, as requested by the Health Services Department. (100% Mental Health Services Act Realignment Funds) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Warren Lai, Public Works Director/Chief Engineer Report Title:Third Amendment to Lease with RPE Muir, LLC for 1350 Arnold Drive, Suites 102 and 103, Martinez ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director,or designee,to execute a third amendment to a lease with RPE Muir,LLC for approximately 1,912 square feet of office space located at 1350 Arnold Drive,Suites 102 and 103,in Martinez,to add three one-year options to renew,at an initial annual rent of $43,594,with annual increases, as requested by the Health Services Department. AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director, or designee, to exercise any options to extend the lease term. FISCAL IMPACT: 100% Mental Health Services Act (MHSA) Realignment Funds - Org 5906. BACKGROUND: Health Services Department (HSD)-Mobile Crisis Team has occupied Suite 102 since 2018 and Suite 103 since 2021. HSD plans to move the Mobile Crisis Team to the County-owned building at 1034 Oak Grove,Concord,when renovations at that site are complete.The renovations are expected to be complete by the end of the second quarter of 2025.Until this group can move into the newly renovated County building,they need to remain in the suites they currently occupy at 1350 Arnold Drive.The addition of the additional renewal terms and a termination option gives the County the flexibility it needs. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2761,Version:1 CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: The County would need to relocate this group and incur additional moving expenses. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ Third Amendment to Lease Health Services Department – Mobile Crisis Team 1350 Arnold Drive, Suites 102 and 103 Martinez, CA This third amendment is dated September 10, 2024, and is between RPE MUIR, LLC, a California limited liability company (“Lessor”) and the COUNTY OF CONTRA COSTA, a political subdivision of the State of California (“County”). Recitals A. Lessor is the owner of the building located at 1350 Arnold Drive, Martinez, California (the “Building”). Lessor and County are parties to a lease, dated August 1, 2018, under which the County is leasing a portion of the Building known as Suites 102 and 103, which together consist of approximately 1,912 square feet. B. The parties desire to amend the Lease to add additional renewal terms and to include a termination option during the third, fourth, and fifth Renewal Term. The parties therefore amend the Lease as follows: Agreement 1. All defined terms used but not defined in this third amendment have the meaning ascribed to them elsewhere in the Lease. 2. Section 2. Term is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following: Term. The “Term” of this lease is comprised of an Initial Term and, at County’s election, Renewal Terms, each as defined below. a. Initial Term. The “Initial Term” is three years, commencing on October 1, 2018 (the “Commencement Date”) and ending September 30, 2021. b. Renewal Terms. County has six options to renew this lease (each, a “Renewal Term”) upon all the terms and conditions set forth in this lease. i. The first Renewal Term, if exercised, begins on October 1, 2021, and ends on September 30, 2023. ii. The second Renewal Term, if exercised, begins on October 1, 2023, and ends on September 30, 2024. iii. The third Renewal Term, if exercised, begins on October 1, 2024, and ends on September 30, 2025. iv. The fourth Renewal Term, if exercised, begins on October 1, 2025, and ends on September 30, 2026. v. The fifth Renewal Term, if exercised, begins on October 1, 2026, and ends on September 30, 2027. vi. County will provide Lessor with written notice of its election to renew the lease 30 days prior to the end of the Term. However, if County fails to provide a 30-day notice, its right to renew the lease will not expire until 15 working days after County’s receipt of Lessor’s written demand that County exercise or forfeit the option to renew. vii. Upon the commencement of a Renewal Term, all references to the Term of this lease will be deemed to mean the Term as extended pursuant to this Section. c. Termination. During the third, fourth, or fifth Renewal Term, the County may terminate the lease with 60 days’ advance notice. 3. Section 3. Rent is amended by adding the following subsection: d. Third Renewal Term. Period Monthly Rent October 1, 2024 - September 30, 2025 $3,632.80 e. Fourth Renewal Term. Period Monthly Rent October 1, 2025 - September 30, 2026 $3,741.78 f. Fifth Renewal Term. Period Monthly Rent October 1, 2026 - September 30, 2027 $3,854.04 Rent for any fractional month will be prorated and computed on a daily basis with each days rent equal to one-thirtieth (1/30) of the monthly Rent. [Remainder of Page Intentionally Left Blank] 4. All other terms of the Lease remain unchanged. Lessor and County are causing this third amendment to be executed as of the date set forth in the introductory paragraph. COUNTY OF CONTRA COSTA, a RPE MUIR LLC, a political subdivision of the State of California Limited Liability Company California By: _______________________ By:_______________________ Warren Lai Ronald P. Elvidge Public Works Director President RECOMMENDED FOR APPROVAL: By: _______________________ Jessica L. Dillingham Principal Real Property Agent By: _______________________ Margaret Eychner Senior Real Property Agent APPROVED AS TO FORM THOMAS L. GEIGER, COUNTY COUNSEL By: _______________________ Kathleen M. Andrus Deputy County Counsel ME: WLP511 G:\Realprop\LEASE MANAGEMENT\MARTINEZ\1350 ARNOLD DR STE 102 & 103 - T00720\LEASES\2024 3rd Amendment\1350 Arnold Dr Stes 102_103 - Third Amend - V2.Docx 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2762 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/14/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director, or designee, to execute a lease between the County, as Lessee, and RPE MUIR, LLC, as Lessor, under which the County is leasing approximately 942 square feet of office space in the building located at 1330 Arnold Drive, Suite 142, Martinez, through April 30, 2027, at an initial annual rent is $20,347, with annual increases thereafter. (100% Health Services Department Realignment Funds) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Warren Lai, Public Works Director/Chief Engineer Report Title:Lease of Office Space at 1330 Arnold Drive, Suite 142, Martinez area. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director,or designee,to execute a lease between the County, as Lessee,and RPE MUIR,LLC,as Lessor,under which the County is leasing approximately 942 square feet of office space in the building located at 1330 Arnold Drive, Suite 142, Martinez, through April 30, 2027. FISCAL IMPACT: The initial annual rent is $20,347, with annual increases. 100% Health Services Department Org 5993 - Realignment BACKGROUND: The Health Services Department -Behavioral Health Housing Support Services group has increased the staffing numbers needed to provide services in the field.They have outgrown the space at 1330 Arnold Drive, Suite 140,and would like to take on this additional space at 1330 Arnold Drive,Suite 142.The program to be operated from the site supports clients in maintaining their housing by providing clients support with problem solving,managing crises,advocating for clients’needs,connecting them to services in the community,and financial coaching and management.The configuration of staff who will be using the additional suite will be clerical staff,two IMD Liaisons,RN’s who manage placement,utilization review,and discharge of clients from locked facilities,and Behavioral Health Bridge Housing (BHBH)Coordinator.The coordinator will help supervise staff and is responsible for the BHBH program development and implementation. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this lease is not approved,the Health Services Department -Behavioral Health Housing Support ServicesCONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2762,Version:1 If this lease is not approved,the Health Services Department -Behavioral Health Housing Support Services group may experience disruptions in its ability to conduct essential County business. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1 LEASE Health Services Department – Behavioral Health 1330 Arnold Drive, Suite 142, Martinez, CA 94553 This lease is dated September 10, 2024, and is between RPE MUIR, LLC, a California limited liability company (“Lessor”) and the County of Contra Costa, a political subdivision of the State of California (“County”). Recitals A. Lessor is the owner of the building located at 1330 Arnold Drive, California (the “Building”). B. Lessor desires to lease to County and County desires to lease from Lessor a portion of the Building consisting of approximately 942 square feet of floor space known as Suite 142 (the “Premises”) the location of which is shown in Exhibit A, along with the non- exclusive use of three parking stalls. The parties therefore agree as follows: Agreement 1. Lease of Premises. In consideration of the rents and subject to the terms of this lease, Lessor hereby leases to County and County hereby leases from Lessor, the Premises. 2. Term. The “Term” of this lease begins September 15, 2024 (the “Commencement Date”) and ends April 30, 2027. 3. Rent. County shall pay rent (“Rent”) to Lessor monthly in advance beginning on the Commencement Date. Rent is payable on the tenth day of each month during the Term and, if applicable, the Renewal Terms, in the amounts set forth below: Term Monthly Rent September 15, 2024 - April 30, 2025 $1,695.60 May 1, 2025 - April 30, 2026 $1,746.47 May 1, 2026 - April 30, 2027 $1,798.86 Rent for any fractional month will be prorated and computed on a daily basis with each day’s rent equal to one-thirtieth (1/30) of the monthly Rent. 2 4. Use. County may use the Premises for the purpose of conducting various functions of County and any other purpose permitted by law, provided such use is not specifically prohibited by the building rules and regulations set forth in Exhibit B - Building Rules and Regulations. 5. Obligation to Pay Utilities and Janitorial. Lessor shall pay for all gas and electricity, water, sewer, and refuse collection services provided to the Premises, provided, however, if County installs a supplemental cooling unit, then Lessor shall install a separate meter to measure the electrical consumption of such cooling unit and County will reimburse Lessor for the actual cost of the electrical consumption of such cooling unit and the cost for the meter, including installation. Lessor shall pay for all janitorial services provided to the Premises, which services are to conform to the specifications set forth in Exhibit C – Janitorial Specifications. 6. Maintenance and Repairs. a. Roof and Exterior of Premises. Lessor shall keep the roof and exterior of the Premises in good order, condition, and repair, and shall maintain the structural integrity of the Building, including the exterior doors and their fixtures, closers and hinges, exterior windows, glass and glazing, and all locks and key systems used in the Premises. b. Interior of Premises. County shall keep and maintain the interior of the Premises in good order, condition, and repair, but Lessor shall repair damage to the interior caused by its failure to maintain the exterior in good repair, including damage to the interior caused by roof leaks and/or interior and exterior wall leaks. The County may install and maintain an alarm system, if deemed necessary by County. c. Utilities. Lessor shall repair and maintain the electrical, lighting, water, and plumbing systems in good order, condition, and repair. d. HVAC. Lessor shall maintain and repair the heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems. e. Parking; Exterior Lighting; Landscaping. Lessor shall maintain the parking lot, exterior lighting system, and landscaping in good order, condition, and repair. f. Services by Lessor. If County determines that the Premises are in need of maintenance, construction, remodeling or similar work that is beyond Lessor’s responsibilities under this lease, at County’s request, Lessor shall perform the work at County’s expense. In performing the work, Lessor shall consult with County and use either licensed insured contractors or employees of Lessor. Lessor shall obtain County’s prior written approval of the scope, terms, and cost of any contracts. County may, by giving Lessor thirty (30) days prior written notice, change the scope of work, terminate any or all work, or require that work be performed by a different contractor. 3 7. Quiet Enjoyment. Provided County is in compliance with the material terms of this lease, Lessor shall warrant and defend County in the quiet enjoyment and possession of the Premises during the Term. 8. Assignment and Sublease. County has the right to assign this lease or sublease the Premises or any part of the Premises at any time during the Term. Upon the assignment of the lease by County, the County will have no further obligation under the lease. Any assignment of the Lease to an assignee shall require the approval of Lessor, which may be reasonably conditioned or denied. 9. Alterations; Fixtures and Signs. County may (i) make any lawful and proper minor alterations to the Premises and (ii) attach fixtures and signs (“County Fixtures”) in or upon the Premises. Any County Fixtures will remain the property of County and may be removed from the Premises by County at any time during the Term. County is responsible for the cost of all alterations and County Fixtures. All alterations and County Fixtures are subject to Lessor’s approval and must comply with existing code requirements. 10. Insurance. a. Liability Insurance. Throughout the Term, County shall maintain in full force and effect, at its sole expense, a general self-insurance program covering bodily injury (including death), personal injury, and property damage, including loss of use. County shall provide Lessor with a letter of self-insurance affirming the existence of the self-insurance program. b. Self-Insurance Exclusion. County’s self-insurance does not provide coverage for (i) areas to be maintained by Lessor under this lease, or (ii) negligence, willful misconduct, or other intentional act, error or omission of Lessor, its officers, agents, or employees. 11. Surrender of Premises. On the last day of the Term, or sooner termination of this lease, County shall peaceably and quietly leave and surrender to Lessor the Premises, along with appurtenances and fixtures at the Premises (except County Fixtures), all in good condition, ordinary wear and tear, damage by casualty, condemnation, acts of God and Lessor’s failure to make repairs required of Lessor excepted. County is not responsible for painting or for repairing or replacing any floor coverings in the Premises upon the expiration or earlier termination of this lease. 12. Waste, Nuisance. County may not commit, or suffer to be committed, any waste upon the Premises, or any nuisance or other act or thing that may disturb the quiet enjoyment of any other occupant of the Building. 13. Inspection. Lessor, or its proper representative or contractor, may enter the Premises by prior appointment between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, 4 holidays excepted, to determine that (i) the Premises is being reasonably cared for, (ii) no waste is being made and that all actions affecting the Premises are done in the manner best calculated to preserve the Premises, and (iii) County is in compliance with the terms and conditions of this lease. 14. Perilous Conditions. If the County’s Director of Public Works becomes aware of a perilous condition on the Premises that, in his or her opinion, substantially and significantly threatens the health and safety of County employees and/or invitees (a “Perilous Condition”), the Director of Public Works, or his or her designee, will immediately notify Lessor of the Perilous Condition and Lessor shall use best efforts to immediately eliminate the Perilous Condition. Lessor shall immediately address any condition reasonably constituting an emergency, whether Lessor learns of the condition through County or otherwise. If Lessor fails to address a Perilous Condition within twenty-four (24) hours after County’s notice or to immediately address an emergency, County may attempt to resolve the Perilous Condition or emergency. Lessor shall reimburse County for any costs incurred by County in addressing the Perilous Condition or emergency promptly upon receipt of County’s invoice. 15. Destruction. If damage occurs that causes a partial destruction of the Premises during the Term from any cause and repairs can be made within sixty days from the date of the damage under the applicable laws and regulations of government authorities, Lessor shall repair the damage promptly. Such partial destruction will not void this lease, except that County will be entitled to a proportionate reduction in Rent while the repairs are being made. The proportionate reduction in Rent will be calculated by multiplying Rent by a fraction, the numerator of which is the number of square feet that are unusable by County and the denominator of which is the total number of square feet in the Premises. If repairs cannot be made in sixty days, County will have the option to terminate the lease or request that Lessor make the repairs within a reasonable time, in which case, Lessor will make the repairs and Rent will be proportionately reduced as provided in the previous paragraph. This lease will terminate in the event of the total destruction of the Premises. 16. Hazardous Material. Lessor warrants to County that Lessor does not have any knowledge of the presence of Hazardous Material (as defined below) or contamination of the Building or Premises in violation of environmental laws. Lessor shall defend, save, protect and hold County harmless from any loss arising out of the presence of any Hazardous Material on the Premises that was not brought to the Premises by or at the request of County, its agents, contractors, invitees or employees. Lessor acknowledges and agrees that County has no obligation to clean up or remediate or contribute to the cost of cleanup or remediation, of any Hazardous Material unless such Hazardous Material is released, discharged or spilled on or about the Premises by County or any of its agents, 5 employees, contractors, invitees or other representatives. The obligations of this Section shall survive the expiration or earlier termination of this lease. “Hazardous Material” means any substance, material or waste, including lead-based paint, asbestos and petroleum (including crude oil or any fraction thereof), that is or becomes designated as a hazardous substance, hazardous waste, hazardous material, toxic substance, or toxic material under any federal, state or local law, regulation, or ordinance. 17. Indemnification. a. County. County shall defend, indemnify and hold Lessor harmless from County’s share of any and all claims, costs and liability for any damage, injury or death of or to any person or the property of any person, including attorneys’ fees, caused by the willful misconduct or the negligent acts, errors, or omissions of County, its officers, agents or employees in using the Premises pursuant to this lease, or the County’s performance under this lease, except to the extent caused or contributed to by (i) the structural, mechanical, or other failure of buildings owned or maintained by Lessor, and/or (ii) the negligent acts, errors, or omissions of Lessor, its officers, agents, or employees. b. Lessor. Lessor shall defend, indemnify and hold County harmless from Lessor’s share of any and all claims, costs and liability for any damage, injury or death of or to any person or the property of any person, including attorneys’ fees, caused by the willful misconduct or the negligent acts, errors or omissions of Lessor, its officers, agents, employees, with respect to the Premises, or Lessor’s performance under this lease, or the Lessor’s performance, delivery or supervision of services at the Premises, or by the structural, mechanical or other failure of buildings owned or maintained by Lessor, except to the extent caused or contributed to by the negligent acts, errors, or omissions of County, its officers, agents, or employees. 18. Default. The occurrence of any of the following events is a default under this lease: a. County. i. County’s failure to pay Rent within ten business days after receipt of a written notice of failure (a “Notice”) from Lessor to County; provided, however, that County will have additional time if its failure to pay Rent is due to circumstances beyond its reasonable control, including, without limitation, failure of the County’s Board of Supervisors to adopt a budget. In no event may such additional time exceed seventy-five days from receipt of a Notice. ii. County’s failure to comply with any other material term or provision of this lease if the failure is not remedied within thirty days after receipt of a Notice from Lessor to County specifying the nature of the breach in reasonably 6 sufficient detail; provided, however, if the default cannot reasonably be remedied within the thirty day period, then a default will not be deemed to occur until the occurrence of County’s failure to comply within the period of time that may be reasonably required to remedy the default, up to an aggregate of ninety days, provided County commences curing the default within thirty days and thereafter diligently proceeds to cure the default. b. Lessor. Lessor’s failure to perform any obligation under this lease if the failure is not remedied within thirty days after receipt of a Notice from County to Lessor specifying the nature of the breach in reasonably sufficient detail; provided, however, if the breach cannot reasonably be remedied within the thirty day period, then a default will not be deemed to occur until the occurrence of Lessor’s failure to perform within the period of time that may be reasonably required to remedy the breach, up to an aggregate of ninety days, provided Lessor commences curing the breach within thirty days and thereafter diligently proceeds to cure the breach. 19. Remedies. a. Lessor. Upon the occurrence of a default by County, Lessor may, after giving County written notice of the default, and in accordance with due process of law, reenter and repossess the Premises and remove all persons and property from the Premises. b. County. Upon the occurrence of a default by Lessor, County may (i) terminate this lease by giving written notice to Lessor and quit the Premises without further cost or obligation to County or (ii) proceed to repair or correct the failure and, at County’s option, either deduct the cost thereof from Rent due to Lessor, or invoice Lessor for the cost of repair, which invoice Lessor shall pay promptly upon receipt. 20. Notices. Any notice required or permitted under this lease must be in writing and sent by overnight delivery service or registered or certified mail, postage prepaid and directed as follows: To Lessor: RPE Muir, LLC. 1343 Locust Street #24 Walnut Creek, CA 94596 With a copy to: Bay Wide Properties 251 Lafayette Circle #120 Lafayette, CA 94549 To County: Contra Costa County Public Works Department Attn: Principal Real Property Agent 255 Glacier Drive Martinez, CA 94553 7 Either party may at any time designate in writing a substitute address for the address set forth above and thereafter notices are to be directed to such substituted address. If sent in accordance with this Section, all notices will be deemed effective (i) the next business day, if sent by overnight courier, or (ii) three days after being deposited in the United States Postal system. 21. Successors and Assigns. This lease binds and inures to the benefit of the heirs, successors, and assigns of the parties hereto. 22. Holding Over. Any holding over after the Term of this lease is a tenancy from month to month and is subject to the terms of this lease. 23. Time is of the Essence. In fulfilling all terms and conditions of this lease, time is of the essence. 24. Governing Law. The laws of the State of California govern all matters arising out of this lease. 25. Severability. In the event that any provision of this lease is held to be invalid or unenforceable in any respect, the validity and enforceability of the remaining provisions of this lease will not in any way be affected or impaired. 26. Real Estate Commission. In negotiating this lease, Lessor is unrepresented, and the County represents itself. Lessor recognizes and acknowledges that the County is entitled to a real estate commission when it represents itself. The County warrants to Lessor that County’s contact with Lessor in connection with this Lease has been with Lessor through Lessor’s property management. Lessor shall pay to County a real estate commission in the amount of $1,402.72 (the “County Commission”) on the Commencement Date. Lessor and County warrant that no other broker or finder can properly claim a right to a leasing commission or a finder's fee based upon contacts with the County with respect to the Building. Lessor and County shall indemnify, defend, protect and hold each other harmless from and against any loss, cost or expense, including, but not limited to, attorneys' fees and costs, or the payment of a real estate commission to any party resulting from any claim for a fee or commission by any broker or finder, in connection with the Building and this lease. [Remainder of Page Intentionally Left Blank] 8 27. Entire Agreement; Construction; Modification. Neither party has relied on any promise or representation not contained in this lease. All previous conversations, negotiations, and understandings are of no further force or effect. This lease is not to be construed as if it had been prepared by one of the parties, but rather as if both parties prepared it. This lease may be modified only by a writing signed by both parties. The parties are executing this lease on the date set forth in the introductory paragraph. COUNTY OF CONTRA COSTA, a RPE MUIR LLC political subdivision of the State of California By: _______________________ By: _______________________ Warren Lai Ronald P. Elvidge Public Works Director President RECOMMENDED FOR APPROVAL: By: _______________________ Jessica L. Dillingham Principal Real Property Agent By: _______________________ Margaret J. Eychner Senior Real Property Agent APPROVED AS TO FORM THOMAS L. GEIGER, COUNTY COUNSEL By: _______________________ Kathleen M. Andrus Deputy County Counsel WLP519 G:\realprop\LEASE MANAGEMENT\MARTINEZ\1330 ARNOLD DR STE 142 - T00___\LEASES\1330 Arnold Dr Ste 142 - Lease - V3.docx Exhibit A – page 1 EXHIBIT A Exhibit B – page 1 EXHIBIT B BUILDING RULES AND REGULATIONS CONTRA COSTA COUNTY 1330 Arnold Drive, Suite 142, Martinez, California 1. No sign, placard, picture, advertisement, name or notice shall be installed or displayed on any part of the outside or inside of the Building without the prior written consent of Lessor. Lessor shall have the right to remove, at County’s expense and without notice, any sign installed or displayed in violation of this rule. All approved signs or lettering on doors and walls shall be printed, painted, affixed or inscribed at the expense of County by a person chosen by Lessor. 2. If Lessor objects in writing to any curtains, blinds, shades, screens or hanging plants or other similar objects attached to or used in connection with any window or door of the Premises, County shall immediately discontinue such use. No awning shall be permitted on any part of the Premises. County shall not place anything against or near glass partitions or doors or windows which may appear unsightly from outside the Premises. 3. County shall not obstruct any sidewalks, halls, passages, exits, entrances, elevators, or stairways of the Building. The halls, passages, exits, entrances, elevators, and stairways are not open to the general public. Lessor shall in all cases retain the right to control and prevent access thereto of all persons whose presence in the judgment of Lessor would be prejudicial to the safety, character, reputation and interest of the Building and its Tenants/County; provided that nothing herein contained shall be construed to prevent such access to persons with whom County normally deals in the ordinary course of its business, unless such persons are engaged in illegal activities. No employee or invitee of County shall go upon the roof of the Building. 4. The directory of the Building will be provided exclusively for the display of the name and location of all tenants in the building including the County. 5. All cleaning and janitorial services for the Building and the Premises shall be provided exclusively through Lessor, and except with the written consent of Lessor, no person or persons other than those approved by Lessor shall be permitted to enter the Building for the purpose of cleaning the same. County shall not cause any unnecessary labor by carelessness or indifference to the good order and cleanliness of the Premises. Lessor shall not in any way be responsible to any County for any loss of personal property on the Premises, however occurring, or for any damage to any County’s personal property by the janitor or any other employee or any other person. 6. Lessor will furnish County, at County’s cost (unless such cost is paid from any County improvement allowance, if applicable, available to County by Lessor); with six keys to each Exhibit B – page 2 door lock in the Premises. Lessor may make a reasonable charge for any additional keys. County shall not make or have made additional keys, and County shall not alter any lock or install a new additional lock or bolt on any door of its Premises. County, upon the termination of its tenancy, shall deliver to Lessor the keys of all doors which have been furnished to County, and in the event of loss of any keys so furnished, shall pay Lessor therefor. 7. If County requires telegraphic, telephonic, burglar alarm or similar services, it shall first obtain, and comply with, Lessor’s instructions in their installation. 8. Any freight elevator shall be available for use by all Tenants in the Building, subject to such reasonable scheduling as Lessor in its discretion shall deem appropriate. No equipment, materials, furniture, packages, supplies, merchandise or other property will be received in the Building or carried in the elevators except between such hours and in such elevators as may be designated by Lessor. 9. County shall not place a load upon any floor of the Premises that exceeds the load per square foot that such floor was designed to carry and which is allowed by law. Lessor shall have the right to prescribe the weight, size and position of all equipment, materials, furniture or other property brought into the Building. Heavy objects shall, if considered necessary by Lessor, stand on such platforms as determined by Lessor to be necessary to properly distribute the weight. Business machines and mechanical equipment belonging to County, which cause noise or vibration that may be transmitted to the structure of the Building or to any space therein to such a degree as to be objectionable to Lessor or to any Tenants/County in the Building, shall be placed and maintained by County, at County’s expense, on vibration eliminators or other devices sufficient to eliminate noise or vibration. The persons employed to move such equipment in or out of the Building must be acceptable to Lessor. Lessor will not be responsible for loss of, or damage to, any such equipment or other property from any cause, and all damage done to the Building by maintaining or moving such equipment or other property shall be repaired at the expense of County. COUNTY shall notify Lessor of the names of all persons or companies to be employed or retained by County to move equipment or other articles in or out of the Building or Premises on behalf of the County (collectively, “movers”) prior to commencing any moving. County shall reasonably cooperate with Lessor to cause all such movers to maintain the following insurance in connection with the moving of equipment or other articles in or out of the Building or Premises, as the case may be (and to provide Lessor with a certificate of insurance evidencing such insurance is being maintained): (i) workers compensation insurance in such amounts as may be required by law; and (ii) commercial general liability insurance (including owned and non-owned automobile liability), on an occurrence basis, with limits of no less than $1,000,000 per occurrence. Such commercial general liability policies shall (i) name Lessor and its managing agent as additional insureds; and (ii) is primary to and non-contributory with any insurance policies carried by Lessor or such managing agent. 10. County shall not use or keep in the Premises any kerosene, gasoline or other inflammable or combustible fluid or material other than those limited quantities necessary for the operation or maintenance of office equipment. County shall not use or permit to be used in the Premises any foul or noxious gas or substance or permit or allow the Premises to be occupied or used Exhibit B – page 3 in a manner offensive or objectionable to Lessor or other occupants of the Building by reason of noise, odors or vibrations, nor shall County bring into or keep in or about the Premises any birds or animals. 11. County shall not use any method of heating or air-conditioning other than that supplied by Lessor. 12. County shall not waste electricity, water or air-conditioning and agrees to cooperate fully with Lessor to assure the most effective operation of the Building’s heating and air- conditioning and to comply with any governmental energy-saving rules, laws or regulations of which County has actual notice, and shall refrain from adjusting controls. County shall keep corridor doors closed and shall close window coverings at the end of each business day. 13. Lessor reserves the right, exercisable without notice and without liability to County, to change the name and street address of the Building. 14. Lessor reserves the right to exclude from the Building between the hours of 6 P.M. and 7 A.M. the following day, or such other hours as may be established from time to time by Lessor, and on Sundays and legal holidays, any person unless that person is known to the person or employee in charge of the Building and has a pass or is properly identified. County shall be responsible for all persons for whom it requests passes and shall be responsible for all acts of such persons. Lessor shall not be liable for damages for any error with regard to the admission to or exclusion from the Building of any person. Lessor reserves the right to prevent access to the Building in case of invasion, mob, riot, public excitement or other commotion by closing the doors or by other appropriate action. 15. County shall close and lock the doors of its Premises and entirely shut off all water faucets or other water apparatus, and electricity, gas or air outlets before County and its employees leave the Premises. County shall be responsible for any damage or injuries sustained by other Tenants/County or occupants of the Building or by Lessor for noncompliance with this rule. 16. County shall not obtain for use on the Premises food, beverage, towel, car washing or detailing or other similar services or accept barbering, bootblacking or car washing or detailing service upon the Premises, except at such hours and under such regulations as may be fixed by Lessor. 17. The toilet rooms, toilets, urinals, wash bowls and other apparatus shall not be used for any purpose other than that for which they were constructed, and no foreign substance of any kind whatsoever shall be thrown therein. The expense of any breakage, stoppage or damage resulting from the violation of this rule shall be borne by the County who, or whose employees or invitees, shall have caused it. 18. County shall not sell, or permit the sale at retail, of newspapers, magazines, periodicals, theater tickets or any other goods or merchandise to the general public in or on the Premises. County shall not make any room-to-room solicitation of business or activity other than that specifically provided for in the County’s lease. Exhibit B – page 4 19. County shall not install any radio or television antenna, loudspeaker or other device on the roof or exterior walls of the Building. County shall not interfere with radio or television broadcasting or reception from or in the Building or elsewhere. 20. County shall not mark, drive nails, screw or drill into the partitions, woodwork or plaster or in any way deface the Premises or any part thereof. Lessor reserves the right to direct electricians as to where and how telephone and telegraph wires are to be introduced to the Premises. County shall maintain their telephone, telegraph, telecommunications wires and systems. County shall not cut or bore holes for wires. County shall not affix any floor covering to the floor of the Premises in any manner except as approved by Lessor. County shall repair any damage resulting from noncompliance with this rule. 21. County shall not install, maintain, or operate upon the Premises any vending machine without the written consent of Lessor. 22. Canvassing, soliciting and distribution of handbills or any other written material, and peddling in the Building are prohibited, and each Tenant/County shall cooperate to prevent same. 23. Lessor reserves the right to exclude or expel from the Building any person who, in Lessor’s judgment, is intoxicated or under the influence of liquor or drugs or who is in violation of any of the Rules and Regulations of the Building. 24. County shall store all its trash and garbage within its Premises. County shall not place in any trash box or receptacle any material that cannot be disposed of in the ordinary and customary manner of trash and garbage disposal. All garbage disposals shall be made in accordance with the directions issued from time to time by Lessor. 25. The Premises shall not be used for the storage of merchandise held for sale to the general public, or for lodging or for manufacturing of any kind, nor shall the Premises be used for any improper, immoral or objectionable purpose. No cooking shall be done or permitted by any Tenant/County on the premises except that use by County of Underwriters’ Laboratory- approved equipment for brewing coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and similar beverages shall be permitted, provided that such equipment and use is in accordance with all applicable federal, state, county and city laws, codes, ordinances, rules and regulations. 26. County shall not use in any space or in the public halls of the Building any hand trucks except those equipped with rubber tires and side guards or such other material-handling equipment as Lessor may approve. County shall not bring vehicles or bicycles of any kind into the Building. 27. Without the written consent of Lessor, County shall not use the name of the Building in connection with or in promoting or advertising the business of County except as County’s address. Exhibit B – page 5 28. County shall comply with all safety, fire protection and evacuation procedures and regulations established by Lessor or any other governmental agency. 29. County assumes any and all responsibility for protecting its Premises from theft, robbery and pilferage, which includes keeping doors locked and other means of entry to the Premise closed. 30. The requirements of County will be attended to only upon appropriate application to the office of the Building by an authorized individual: Employees of Lessor shall not perform any work or do anything outside of their regular duties unless under specific instruction by Lessor. 31. County shall not park its vehicles in any parking areas designated by the Lessor as areas for parking by visitors to the Building. County shall not leave vehicles in the Building parking areas overnight nor park any vehicles in the Building parking areas other than automobiles, motorcycles, motor driven or non-motor driven bicycles or four wheeled trucks. County shall direct its agents, guests, affiliates, visitors, and invitees coming to the Project for conferences, training, or meetings to park in the overflow parking area designated by the Lessor (“Conference Parking”). Lessor, at Lessor’s sole discretion, shall have the right to relocate said Conference Parking. Lessor shall provide County a minimum of a twenty-four (24) hour written notice of such relocation unless such relocation is due to an emergency or other situation that Lessor was not provided ample notification of. 32. Lessor may waive any one or more of these Rules and Regulations for the benefit of County or any other Tenant, but no such waiver by Lessor shall be construed as a continuous waiver of such Rules and Regulations in favor of County or any other Tenant, nor prevent Lessor from thereafter enforcing any such Rules and Regulations against the County or any or all of the other Tenants of the Building. 33. These Rules and Regulations are in addition to and shall not be construed to in any way modify or amend, in whole or in part, the terms, covenants, agreements and conditions of any lease of premises in the Building. 34. Lessor reserves the right to make such other reasonable Rules and Regulations as, in its judgment, may from time to time be needed for safety and security, for care and cleanliness of the Building and for the preservation of good order therein. County agrees to abide by all such Rules and Regulations hereinabove stated and for any additional rules and regulations that are adopted. 35. County shall be responsible for the observance of all foregoing rules by County’s employees, agents, clients, customers, invitees and guests. Exhibit C – page 1 EXHIBIT C JANITORIAL SPECIFICATIONS CONTRA COSTA COUNTY 1330 Arnold Drive, Suite 142, Martinez, California Lessor shall cause janitorial services provided to Premises to meet or exceed the following standards: DAILY SERVICES 1. Clean all restrooms thoroughly each day, including, but not limited to, fixtures, mirrors, hardware, wash basins, partitions, doors, and tile surfaces. 2. Disinfect all toilets, urinals, and wash basins and mop floors nightly. 3. Inspect supplies in restroom dispensers daily and replace as necessary. 4. Empty and wipe out ash trays with a damp cloth. 5. Empty all trash containers throughout the premises. 6. Clean and disinfect drinking fountains. 7. Vacuum or spot-vacuum carpets as necessary around entry and heavy traffic areas. Spot- clean carpets periodically as needed. 8. Remove spots and finger marks from glass on entry doors and all interior partitions. 9. Dust counter tops, desktops, cabinets, tables, low wall partitions, window sills, and telephones. 10. Sweep uncarpeted floors nightly and spot-mop as needed. WEEKLY SERVICES 1. Vacuum all carpets thoroughly throughout the premises. 2. Dust building completely. 3. Mop all vinyl floor areas weekly and strip, wax, and buff when necessary. 4. Replace trash container liners as necessary. Exhibit C – page 2 TWICE YEARLY 1. Wash windows, window screens, and glass on both sides two times per year in May and November. 2. Clean all ventilation grills. ONCE YEARLY 1. Wash and clean all light fixtures inside and outside. SUPPLIES AND EQUIPMENT 1. Lessor shall furnish all paper supplies, such as seat covers, towels, toilet tissue, sanitary napkins, soap for sink dispensers, and trash container liners. 2. Lessor shall furnish all equipment, tools, and cleaning supplies such as carpet cleaner, disinfectant, wax, and other supplies, or chemicals required. MISCELLANEOUS 1. Lessor shall cause the janitor room to be kept neat, clean, and free of debris. 2. Lessor shall cause the janitor to lock all doors and windows, set night lights and alarm system before leaving Building at the end of the day. 3. Lessor shall keep all sidewalks broom clean and landscaping free of debris within a 12- foot distance from the perimeter of the building. 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2763 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/15/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director, or designee, to execute a new lease between the County, as lessee, and RPE MUIR, LLC, as lessor, under which the County is leasing approximately 1,531 square feet of office space in the building located at 1340 Arnold Drive, Suite 115, Martinez, through September 30, 2029, at an initial annual rent of $34,907, with annual increases thereafter. (100% Hospital Enterprise Funds) Attachments:1. Lease - 1340 Arnold Drive Suite 115 Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Warren Lai, Public Works Director/Chief Engineer Report Title:Lease of Office Space at 1340 Arnold Drive, Suite 115, Martinez area. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director, or designee, to execute a new lease between the County, as lessee, and RPE MUIR, LLC, as lessor, under which the County is leasing approximately 1,531 square feet of office space in the building located at 1340 Arnold Drive, Suite 115, Martinez, through September 30, 2029. AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director, or designee, to exercise any options to extend the lease term. FISCAL IMPACT: The annual rent in the first year is $34,907, with annual increases thereafter. 100% Health Services Department Org 6651 - Enterprise Fund1. BACKGROUND: Several staff from the Materials Management group are working out of 50 Douglas and others are scattered throughout the Contra Costa Regional Medical Center (CCRMC). Staff from this group assigned to work in the G Ward at CCRMC need a stable office location to conduct essential County business. Between this lease and a second, concurrent lease at 1330 Arnold Drive., Suite 249, the Materials Management group will have a stable office location. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this lease is not approved, the Health Services Department - Materials Management group may experience CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 10/3/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ C.168 File #:24-2763,Version:1 disruptions in its ability to conduct essential County business. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 10/3/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1 LEASE Health Services Department – Materials Management 1340 Arnold Drive, Suite 115 Martinez, CA 94553 This lease is dated September 10, 2024, and is between RPE MUIR, LLC, a California limited liability company (“Lessor”) and the County of Contra Costa, a political subdivision of the State of California (“County”). Recitals A. Lessor is the owner of the building located at 1340 Arnold Drive, California (the “Building”). B. Lessor desires to lease to County and County desires to lease from Lessor a portion of the Building consisting of approximately 1,531 square feet of floor space known as Suite 115 (the “Premises”), along with the non-exclusive use of 4 parking stalls. The parties therefore agree as follows: Agreement 1. Lease of Premises. In consideration of the rents and subject to the terms of this lease, Lessor hereby leases to County and County hereby leases from Lessor, the Premises. 2. Term. The “Term” of this lease is comprised of an Initial Term and, at County’s election, Renewal Terms, each as defined below. a. Initial Term. The “Initial Term” is approximately five years, beginning on the later to occur of (i) September 15, 2024, and (ii) the date the Tenant Improvements, as defined below, are completed (the “Commencement Date”) and ending September 30, 2029. b. Renewal Terms. County has two options to renew this lease for a term of two years for each option (each, a “Renewal Term”) upon all the terms and conditions set forth in this lease. i. County will provide Lessor with written notice of its election to renew the lease thirty days prior to the end of the Term. However, if County fails to provide such notice, its right to renew the lease will not expire until fifteen working days after County’s receipt of Lessor’s written demand that County exercise or forfeit the option to renew. 2 ii. Upon the commencement of a Renewal Term, all references to the Term of this lease will be deemed to mean the Term as extended pursuant to this Section. 3. Rent. County shall pay rent (“Rent”) to Lessor monthly in advance beginning on the Commencement Date. Rent is payable on the tenth day of each month during the Initial Term and, if applicable, the Renewal Terms, in the amounts set forth below: Initial Term Monthly Rent Commencement Date – September 30, 2025 $2,908.90 October 1, 2025 - September 30, 2026 $2,996.17 October 1, 2026 - September 30, 2027 $3,086.05 October 1, 2027 - September 30, 2028 $3,178.63 October 1, 2028 - September 30, 2029 $3,273.99 First Renewal Term Monthly Rent October 1, 2029 - September 30, 2030 $3,372.21 October 1, 2030 - September 30, 2031 $3,473.38 Second Renewal Term Monthly Rent October 1, 2031 - September 30, 2032 $3,577.58 October 1, 2032 - September 30, 2033 $3,684.91 Rent for any fractional month will be prorated and computed on a daily basis with each day’s rent equal to one-thirtieth (1/30) of the monthly Rent. 4. Tenant Improvements. Prior to the Commencement Date, Lessor shall cause the following improvements to be made to the Premises (together, the “Tenant Improvements”): a. Install new cabinets and solid-surface countertops in the Break Room in color and style to be agreed to by the County. b. Remove dishwasher in Break Room. c. Install carpet squares in all offices in colors and patterns to be agreed to by the County. d. Create data closet in location depicted on Exhibit A. e. Remove existing door between suites or lock in a way that is 100% secure. 3 f. Replace blinds throughout the Premises with building standard white blinds if they have not already been replaced. When the Tenant Improvements are complete, Lessor shall tender delivery to County by delivering a “Completion Notice” in substantial conformity with Exhibit B; provided, however, if the Tenant Improvements are not completed and the Premises delivered to County by October 1, 2024, County may terminate this lease. 5. Use. County may use the Premises for the purpose of conducting various functions of County and any other purpose permitted by law, provided such use is not specifically prohibited by the building rules and regulations set forth in Exhibit C - Building Rules and Regulations. 6. Obligation to Pay Utilities and Janitorial. Lessor shall pay for all gas and electricity, water, sewer, and refuse collection services provided to the Premises, provided, however, if County installs a supplemental cooling unit, then Lessor shall install a separate meter to measure the electrical consumption of such cooling unit and County will reimburse Lessor for the actual cost of the electrical consumption of such cooling unit and the cost for the meter, including installation. Lessor shall pay for all janitorial services provided to the Premises, which services are to conform to the specifications set forth in Exhibit D – Janitorial Specifications. 7. Maintenance and Repairs. a. Roof and Exterior of Premises. Lessor shall keep the roof and exterior of the Premises in good order, condition, and repair, and shall maintain the structural integrity of the Building, including the exterior doors and their fixtures, closers and hinges, exterior windows, glass and glazing, and all locks and key systems used in the Premises. b. Interior of Premises. County shall keep and maintain the interior of the Premises in good order, condition, and repair, but Lessor shall repair damage to the interior caused by its failure to maintain the exterior in good repair, including damage to the interior caused by roof leaks and/or interior and exterior wall leaks. The County may install and maintain an alarm system, if deemed necessary by County. c. Utilities. Lessor shall repair and maintain the electrical, lighting, water, and plumbing systems in good order, condition, and repair. d. HVAC. Lessor shall maintain and repair the heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems. e. Parking; Exterior Lighting; Landscaping. Lessor shall maintain the parking lot, exterior lighting system, and landscaping in good order, condition, and repair. 4 f. Services by Lessor. If County determines that the Premises are in need of maintenance, construction, remodeling or similar work that is beyond Lessor’s responsibilities under this lease, at County’s request, Lessor shall perform the work at County’s expense. In performing the work, Lessor shall consult with County and use either licensed insured contractors or employees of Lessor. Lessor shall obtain County’s prior written approval of the scope, terms, and cost of any contracts. County may, by giving Lessor thirty (30) days prior written notice, change the scope of work, terminate any or all work, or require that work be performed by a different contractor. 8. Quiet Enjoyment. Provided County is in compliance with the material terms of this lease, Lessor shall warrant and defend County in the quiet enjoyment and possession of the Premises during the Term. 9. Assignment and Sublease. County has the right to assign this lease or sublease the Premises or any part of the Premises at any time during the Term. Upon the assignment of the lease by County, the County will have no further obligation under the lease. Any assignment of the Lease to an assignee shall require the approval of Lessor, which may be reasonably conditioned or denied. 10. Alterations; Fixtures and Signs. County may (i) make any lawful and proper minor alterations to the Premises and (ii) attach fixtures and signs (“County Fixtures”) in or upon the Premises. Any County Fixtures will remain the property of County and may be removed from the Premises by County at any time during the Term. County is responsible for the cost of all alterations and County Fixtures. All alterations and County Fixtures are subject to Lessor’s approval and must comply with existing code requirements. 11. Insurance. a. Liability Insurance. Throughout the Term, County shall maintain in full force and effect, at its sole expense, a general self-insurance program covering bodily injury (including death), personal injury, and property damage, including loss of use. County shall provide Lessor with a letter of self-insurance affirming the existence of the self-insurance program. b. Self-Insurance Exclusion. County’s self-insurance does not provide coverage for (i) areas to be maintained by Lessor under this lease, or (ii) negligence, willful misconduct, or other intentional act, error or omission of Lessor, its officers, agents, or employees. 12. Surrender of Premises. On the last day of the Term, or sooner termination of this lease, County shall peaceably and quietly leave and surrender to Lessor the Premises, along with appurtenances and fixtures at the Premises (except County Fixtures), all in good condition, ordinary wear and tear, damage by casualty, condemnation, acts of God and Lessor’s failure to make repairs required of Lessor excepted. County is not responsible 5 for painting or for repairing or replacing any floor coverings in the Premises upon the expiration or earlier termination of this lease. 13. Waste, Nuisance. County may not commit, or suffer to be committed, any waste upon the Premises, or any nuisance or other act or thing that may disturb the quiet enjoyment of any other occupant of the Building. 14. Inspection. Lessor, or its proper representative or contractor, may enter the Premises by prior appointment between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, holidays excepted, to determine that (i) the Premises is being reasonably cared for, (ii) no waste is being made and that all actions affecting the Premises are done in the manner best calculated to preserve the Premises, and (iii) County is in compliance with the terms and conditions of this lease. 15. Perilous Conditions. If the County’s Director of Public Works becomes aware of a perilous condition on the Premises that, in his or her opinion, substantially and significantly threatens the health and safety of County employees and/or invitees (a “Perilous Condition”), the Director of Public Works, or his or her designee, will immediately notify Lessor of the Perilous Condition and Lessor shall use best efforts to immediately eliminate the Perilous Condition. Lessor shall immediately address any condition reasonably constituting an emergency, whether Lessor learns of the condition through County or otherwise. If Lessor fails to address a Perilous Condition within twenty-four (24) hours after County’s notice or to immediately address an emergency, County may attempt to resolve the Perilous Condition or emergency. Lessor shall reimburse County for any costs incurred by County in addressing the Perilous Condition or emergency promptly upon receipt of County’s invoice. 16. Destruction. If damage occurs that causes a partial destruction of the Premises during the Term from any cause and repairs can be made within sixty days from the date of the damage under the applicable laws and regulations of government authorities, Lessor shall repair the damage promptly. Such partial destruction will not void this lease, except that County will be entitled to a proportionate reduction in Rent while the repairs are being made. The proportionate reduction in Rent will be calculated by multiplying Rent by a fraction, the numerator of which is the number of square feet that are unusable by County and the denominator of which is the total number of square feet in the Premises. If repairs cannot be made in sixty days, County will have the option to terminate the lease or request that Lessor make the repairs within a reasonable time, in which case, Lessor will make the repairs and Rent will be proportionately reduced as provided in the previous paragraph. This lease will terminate in the event of the total destruction of the Premises. 6 17. Hazardous Material. Lessor warrants to County that Lessor does not have any knowledge of the presence of Hazardous Material (as defined below) or contamination of the Building or Premises in violation of environmental laws. Lessor shall defend, save, protect and hold County harmless from any loss arising out of the presence of any Hazardous Material on the Premises that was not brought to the Premises by or at the request of County, its agents, contractors, invitees or employees. Lessor acknowledges and agrees that County has no obligation to clean up or remediate or contribute to the cost of cleanup or remediation, of any Hazardous Material unless such Hazardous Material is released, discharged or spilled on or about the Premises by County or any of its agents, employees, contractors, invitees or other representatives. The obligations of this Section shall survive the expiration or earlier termination of this lease. “Hazardous Material” means any substance, material or waste, including lead-based paint, asbestos and petroleum (including crude oil or any fraction thereof), that is or becomes designated as a hazardous substance, hazardous waste, hazardous material, toxic substance, or toxic material under any federal, state or local law, regulation, or ordinance. 18. Indemnification. a. County. County shall defend, indemnify and hold Lessor harmless from County’s share of any and all claims, costs and liability for any damage, injury or death of or to any person or the property of any person, including attorneys’ fees, caused by the willful misconduct or the negligent acts, errors, or omissions of County, its officers, agents or employees in using the Premises pursuant to this lease, or the County’s performance under this lease, except to the extent caused or contributed to by (i) the structural, mechanical, or other failure of buildings owned or maintained by Lessor, and/or (ii) the negligent acts, errors, or omissions of Lessor, its officers, agents, or employees. b. Lessor. Lessor shall defend, indemnify and hold County harmless from Lessor’s share of any and all claims, costs and liability for any damage, injury or death of or to any person or the property of any person, including attorneys’ fees, caused by the willful misconduct or the negligent acts, errors or omissions of Lessor, its officers, agents, employees, with respect to the Premises, or Lessor’s performance under this lease, or the Lessor’s performance, delivery or supervision of services at the Premises, or by the structural, mechanical or other failure of buildings owned or maintained by Lessor, except to the extent caused or contributed to by the negligent acts, errors, or omissions of County, its officers, agents, or employees. 19. Default. The occurrence of any of the following events is a default under this lease: 7 a. County. i. County’s failure to pay Rent within ten business days after receipt of a written notice of failure (a “Notice”) from Lessor to County; provided, however, that County will have additional time if its failure to pay Rent is due to circumstances beyond its reasonable control, including, without limitation, failure of the County’s Board of Supervisors to adopt a budget. In no event may such additional time exceed seventy-five days from receipt of a Notice. ii. County’s failure to comply with any other material term or provision of this lease if the failure is not remedied within thirty days after receipt of a Notice from Lessor to County specifying the nature of the breach in reasonably sufficient detail; provided, however, if the default cannot reasonably be remedied within the thirty day period, then a default will not be deemed to occur until the occurrence of County’s failure to comply within the period of time that may be reasonably required to remedy the default, up to an aggregate of ninety days, provided County commences curing the default within thirty days and thereafter diligently proceeds to cure the default. b. Lessor. Lessor’s failure to perform any obligation under this lease if the failure is not remedied within thirty days after receipt of a Notice from County to Lessor specifying the nature of the breach in reasonably sufficient detail; provided, however, if the breach cannot reasonably be remedied within the thirty day period, then a default will not be deemed to occur until the occurrence of Lessor’s failure to perform within the period of time that may be reasonably required to remedy the breach, up to an aggregate of ninety days, provided Lessor commences curing the breach within thirty days and thereafter diligently proceeds to cure the breach. 20. Remedies. a. Lessor. Upon the occurrence of a default by County, Lessor may, after giving County written notice of the default, and in accordance with due process of law, reenter and repossess the Premises and remove all persons and property from the Premises. b. County. Upon the occurrence of a default by Lessor, County may (i) terminate this lease by giving written notice to Lessor and quit the Premises without further cost or obligation to County or (ii) proceed to repair or correct the failure and, at County’s option, either deduct the cost thereof from Rent due to Lessor, or invoice Lessor for the cost of repair, which invoice Lessor shall pay promptly upon receipt. 21. Notices. Any notice required or permitted under this lease must be in writing and sent by overnight delivery service or registered or certified mail, postage prepaid and directed as follows: 8 To Lessor: RPE Muir, LLC. 1343 Locust Street #24 Walnut Creek, CA 94596 With a copy to: Bay Wide Properties 251 Lafayette Circle #120 Lafayette, CA 94549 To County: Contra Costa County Public Works Department Attn: Principal Real Property Agent 255 Glacier Drive Martinez, CA 94553 Either party may at any time designate in writing a substitute address for the address set forth above and thereafter notices are to be directed to such substituted address. If sent in accordance with this Section, all notices will be deemed effective (i) the next business day, if sent by overnight courier, or (ii) three days after being deposited in the United States Postal system. 22. Successors and Assigns. This lease binds and inures to the benefit of the heirs, successors, and assigns of the parties hereto. 23. Holding Over. Any holding over after the Term of this lease is a tenancy from month to month and is subject to the terms of this lease. 24. Time is of the Essence. In fulfilling all terms and conditions of this lease, time is of the essence. 25. Governing Law. The laws of the State of California govern all matters arising out of this lease. 26. Severability. In the event that any provision of this lease is held to be invalid or unenforceable in any respect, the validity and enforceability of the remaining provisions of this lease will not in any way be affected or impaired. 27. Real Estate Commission. In negotiating this lease, Lessor is unrepresented, and the County represents itself. Lessor recognizes and acknowledges that the County is entitled to a real estate commission when it represents itself. The County warrants to Lessor that County’s contact with Lessor in connection with this Lease has been with Lessor through Lessor’s property management. Lessor shall pay to County a real estate commission in the amount of $4,633.12 (the “County Commission”) on the Commencement Date. 9 Lessor and County warrant that no other broker or finder can properly claim a right to a leasing commission or a finder's fee based upon contacts with the County with respect to the Building. Lessor and County shall indemnify, defend, protect and hold each other harmless from and against any loss, cost or expense, including, but not limited to, attorneys' fees and costs, or the payment of a real estate commission to any party resulting from any claim for a fee or commission by any broker or finder, in connection with the Building and this lease. [Remainder of Page Intentionally Left Blank] 10 28. Entire Agreement; Construction; Modification. Neither party has relied on any promise or representation not contained in this lease. All previous conversations, negotiations, and understandings are of no further force or effect. This lease is not to be construed as if it had been prepared by one of the parties, but rather as if both parties prepared it. This lease may be modified only by a writing signed by both parties. The parties are executing this lease on the date set forth in the introductory paragraph. COUNTY OF CONTRA COSTA, a RPE MUIR LLC political subdivision of the State of California By: _______________________ By: _______________________ Warren Lai Ronald P. Elvidge Public Works Director President RECOMMENDED FOR APPROVAL: By: _______________________ Jessica L. Dillingham Principal Real Property Agent By: _______________________ Margaret J. Eychner Senior Real Property Agent APPROVED AS TO FORM THOMAS L. GEIGER, COUNTY COUNSEL By: _______________________ Kathleen M. Andrus Deputy County Counsel WLP503 G:\realprop\LEASE MANAGEMENT\MARTINEZ\1340 ARNOLD DR STE 115 - T00___\LEASES\1340 Arnold Dr Ste 115 - Lease - V2.docx Exhibit A – page 1 EXHIBIT A Exhibit B – page 1 EXHIBIT B FORM OF COMPLETION NOTICE To: Contra Costa County From: RPE MUIR, LLC Date: Re: Completion Notice This notice is provided in compliance with Section 4 of that certain Lease dated _____________ between RPE MUIR, LLC, and Contra Costa County (the “Lease”). All terms not otherwise defined herein have the meaning ascribed to them in the Lease. Tender by Lessor Lessor hereby represents that it has completed construction of the Tenant Improvements in substantial conformity to Section 4. Lessor hereby tenders the Premises for delivery to Tenant. RPE MUIR, LLC By: _____________________ Its: _____________________ Certification by Contra Costa County The undersigned, a duly authorized representative of Contra Costa County, hereby represents that the County has caused the Tenant Improvements to be inspected and has determined them to be in substantial conformity with the Final Plans. Contra Costa County By: _____________________ Date: _________________ Its: _____________________ Exhibit C – page 1 EXHIBIT C BUILDING RULES AND REGULATIONS CONTRA COSTA COUNTY 1340 Arnold Drive, Suite 115, Martinez, California 1. No sign, placard, picture, advertisement, name or notice shall be installed or displayed on any part of the outside or inside of the Building without the prior written consent of Lessor. Lessor shall have the right to remove, at County’s expense and without notice, any sign installed or displayed in violation of this rule. All approved signs or lettering on doors and walls shall be printed, painted, affixed or inscribed at the expense of County by a person chosen by Lessor. 2. If Lessor objects in writing to any curtains, blinds, shades, screens or hanging plants or other similar objects attached to or used in connection with any window or door of the Premises, County shall immediately discontinue such use. No awning shall be permitted on any part of the Premises. County shall not place anything against or near glass partitions or doors or windows which may appear unsightly from outside the Premises. 3. County shall not obstruct any sidewalks, halls, passages, exits, entrances, elevators, or stairways of the Building. The halls, passages, exits, entrances, elevators, and stairways are not open to the general public. Lessor shall in all cases retain the right to control and prevent access thereto of all persons whose presence in the judgment of Lessor would be prejudicial to the safety, character, reputation and interest of the Building and its Tenants/County; provided that nothing herein contained shall be construed to prevent such access to persons with whom County normally deals in the ordinary course of its business, unless such persons are engaged in illegal activities. No employee or invitee of County shall go upon the roof of the Building. 4. The directory of the Building will be provided exclusively for the display of the name and location of all tenants in the building including the County. 5. All cleaning and janitorial services for the Building and the Premises shall be provided exclusively through Lessor, and except with the written consent of Lessor, no person or persons other than those approved by Lessor shall be permitted to enter the Building for the purpose of cleaning the same. County shall not cause any unnecessary labor by carelessness or indifference to the good order and cleanliness of the Premises. Lessor shall not in any way be responsible to any County for any loss of personal property on the Premises, however occurring, or for any damage to any County’s personal property by the janitor or any other employee or any other person. 6. Lessor will furnish County, at County’s cost (unless such cost is paid from any County improvement allowance, if applicable, available to County by Lessor); with six keys to each Exhibit C – page 2 door lock in the Premises. Lessor may make a reasonable charge for any additional keys. County shall not make or have made additional keys, and County shall not alter any lock or install a new additional lock or bolt on any door of its Premises. County, upon the termination of its tenancy, shall deliver to Lessor the keys of all doors which have been furnished to County, and in the event of loss of any keys so furnished, shall pay Lessor therefor. 7. If County requires telegraphic, telephonic, burglar alarm or similar services, it shall first obtain, and comply with, Lessor’s instructions in their installation. 8. Any freight elevator shall be available for use by all Tenants in the Building, subject to such reasonable scheduling as Lessor in its discretion shall deem appropriate. No equipment, materials, furniture, packages, supplies, merchandise or other property will be received in the Building or carried in the elevators except between such hours and in such elevators as may be designated by Lessor. 9. County shall not place a load upon any floor of the Premises that exceeds the load per square foot that such floor was designed to carry and which is allowed by law. Lessor shall have the right to prescribe the weight, size and position of all equipment, materials, furniture or other property brought into the Building. Heavy objects shall, if considered necessary by Lessor, stand on such platforms as determined by Lessor to be necessary to properly distribute the weight. Business machines and mechanical equipment belonging to County, which cause noise or vibration that may be transmitted to the structure of the Building or to any space therein to such a degree as to be objectionable to Lessor or to any Tenants/County in the Building, shall be placed and maintained by County, at County’s expense, on vibration eliminators or other devices sufficient to eliminate noise or vibration. The persons employed to move such equipment in or out of the Building must be acceptable to Lessor. Lessor will not be responsible for loss of, or damage to, any such equipment or other property from any cause, and all damage done to the Building by maintaining or moving such equipment or other property shall be repaired at the expense of County. COUNTY shall notify Lessor of the names of all persons or companies to be employed or retained by County to move equipment or other articles in or out of the Building or Premises on behalf of the County (collectively, “movers”) prior to commencing any moving. County shall reasonably cooperate with Lessor to cause all such movers to maintain the following insurance in connection with the moving of equipment or other articles in or out of the Building or Premises, as the case may be (and to provide Lessor with a certificate of insurance evidencing such insurance is being maintained): (i) workers compensation insurance in such amounts as may be required by law; and (ii) commercial general liability insurance (including owned and non-owned automobile liability), on an occurrence basis, with limits of no less than $1,000,000 per occurrence. Such commercial general liability policies shall (i) name Lessor and its managing agent as additional insureds; and (ii) is primary to and non-contributory with any insurance policies carried by Lessor or such managing agent. 10. County shall not use or keep in the Premises any kerosene, gasoline or other inflammable or combustible fluid or material other than those limited quantities necessary for the operation or maintenance of office equipment. County shall not use or permit to be used in the Premises any foul or noxious gas or substance or permit or allow the Premises to be occupied or used Exhibit C – page 3 in a manner offensive or objectionable to Lessor or other occupants of the Building by reason of noise, odors or vibrations, nor shall County bring into or keep in or about the Premises any birds or animals. 11. County shall not use any method of heating or air-conditioning other than that supplied by Lessor. 12. County shall not waste electricity, water or air-conditioning and agrees to cooperate fully with Lessor to assure the most effective operation of the Building’s heating and air- conditioning and to comply with any governmental energy-saving rules, laws or regulations of which County has actual notice, and shall refrain from adjusting controls. County shall keep corridor doors closed and shall close window coverings at the end of each business day. 13. Lessor reserves the right, exercisable without notice and without liability to County, to change the name and street address of the Building. 14. Lessor reserves the right to exclude from the Building between the hours of 6 P.M. and 7 A.M. the following day, or such other hours as may be established from time to time by Lessor, and on Sundays and legal holidays, any person unless that person is known to the person or employee in charge of the Building and has a pass or is properly identified. County shall be responsible for all persons for whom it requests passes and shall be responsible for all acts of such persons. Lessor shall not be liable for damages for any error with regard to the admission to or exclusion from the Building of any person. Lessor reserves the right to prevent access to the Building in case of invasion, mob, riot, public excitement or other commotion by closing the doors or by other appropriate action. 15. County shall close and lock the doors of its Premises and entirely shut off all water faucets or other water apparatus, and electricity, gas or air outlets before County and its employees leave the Premises. County shall be responsible for any damage or injuries sustained by other Tenants/County or occupants of the Building or by Lessor for noncompliance with this rule. 16. County shall not obtain for use on the Premises food, beverage, towel, car washing or detailing or other similar services or accept barbering, bootblacking or car washing or detailing service upon the Premises, except at such hours and under such regulations as may be fixed by Lessor. 17. The toilet rooms, toilets, urinals, wash bowls and other apparatus shall not be used for any purpose other than that for which they were constructed, and no foreign substance of any kind whatsoever shall be thrown therein. The expense of any breakage, stoppage or damage resulting from the violation of this rule shall be borne by the County who, or whose employees or invitees, shall have caused it. 18. County shall not sell, or permit the sale at retail, of newspapers, magazines, periodicals, theater tickets or any other goods or merchandise to the general public in or on the Premises. County shall not make any room-to-room solicitation of business or activity other than that specifically provided for in the County’s lease. Exhibit C – page 4 19. County shall not install any radio or television antenna, loudspeaker or other device on the roof or exterior walls of the Building. County shall not interfere with radio or television broadcasting or reception from or in the Building or elsewhere. 20. County shall not mark, drive nails, screw or drill into the partitions, woodwork or plaster or in any way deface the Premises or any part thereof. Lessor reserves the right to direct electricians as to where and how telephone and telegraph wires are to be introduced to the Premises. County shall maintain their telephone, telegraph, telecommunications wires and systems. County shall not cut or bore holes for wires. County shall not affix any floor covering to the floor of the Premises in any manner except as approved by Lessor. County shall repair any damage resulting from noncompliance with this rule. 21. County shall not install, maintain, or operate upon the Premises any vending machine without the written consent of Lessor. 22. Canvassing, soliciting and distribution of handbills or any other written material, and peddling in the Building are prohibited, and each Tenant/County shall cooperate to prevent same. 23. Lessor reserves the right to exclude or expel from the Building any person who, in Lessor’s judgment, is intoxicated or under the influence of liquor or drugs or who is in violation of any of the Rules and Regulations of the Building. 24. County shall store all its trash and garbage within its Premises. County shall not place in any trash box or receptacle any material that cannot be disposed of in the ordinary and customary manner of trash and garbage disposal. All garbage disposals shall be made in accordance with the directions issued from time to time by Lessor. 25. The Premises shall not be used for the storage of merchandise held for sale to the general public, or for lodging or for manufacturing of any kind, nor shall the Premises be used for any improper, immoral or objectionable purpose. No cooking shall be done or permitted by any Tenant/County on the premises except that use by County of Underwriters’ Laboratory- approved equipment for brewing coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and similar beverages shall be permitted, provided that such equipment and use is in accordance with all applicable federal, state, county and city laws, codes, ordinances, rules and regulations. 26. County shall not use in any space or in the public halls of the Building any hand trucks except those equipped with rubber tires and side guards or such other material-handling equipment as Lessor may approve. County shall not bring vehicles or bicycles of any kind into the Building. 27. Without the written consent of Lessor, County shall not use the name of the Building in connection with or in promoting or advertising the business of County except as County’s address. Exhibit C – page 5 28. County shall comply with all safety, fire protection and evacuation procedures and regulations established by Lessor or any other governmental agency. 29. County assumes any and all responsibility for protecting its Premises from theft, robbery and pilferage, which includes keeping doors locked and other means of entry to the Premise closed. 30. The requirements of County will be attended to only upon appropriate application to the office of the Building by an authorized individual: Employees of Lessor shall not perform any work or do anything outside of their regular duties unless under specific instruction by Lessor. 31. County shall not park its vehicles in any parking areas designated by the Lessor as areas for parking by visitors to the Building. County shall not leave vehicles in the Building parking areas overnight nor park any vehicles in the Building parking areas other than automobiles, motorcycles, motor driven or non-motor driven bicycles or four wheeled trucks. County shall direct its agents, guests, affiliates, visitors, and invitees coming to the Project for conferences, training, or meetings to park in the overflow parking area designated by the Lessor (“Conference Parking”). Lessor, at Lessor’s sole discretion, shall have the right to relocate said Conference Parking. Lessor shall provide County a minimum of a twenty-four (24) hour written notice of such relocation unless such relocation is due to an emergency or other situation that Lessor was not provided ample notification of. 32. Lessor may waive any one or more of these Rules and Regulations for the benefit of County or any other Tenant, but no such waiver by Lessor shall be construed as a continuous waiver of such Rules and Regulations in favor of County or any other Tenant, nor prevent Lessor from thereafter enforcing any such Rules and Regulations against the County or any or all of the other Tenants of the Building. 33. These Rules and Regulations are in addition to and shall not be construed to in any way modify or amend, in whole or in part, the terms, covenants, agreements and conditions of any lease of premises in the Building. 34. Lessor reserves the right to make such other reasonable Rules and Regulations as, in its judgment, may from time to time be needed for safety and security, for care and cleanliness of the Building and for the preservation of good order therein. County agrees to abide by all such Rules and Regulations hereinabove stated and for any additional rules and regulations that are adopted. 35. County shall be responsible for the observance of all foregoing rules by County’s employees, agents, clients, customers, invitees and guests. Exhibit D – page 1 EXHIBIT D JANITORIAL SPECIFICATIONS CONTRA COSTA COUNTY 1340 Arnold Drive, Suite 115, Martinez, California Lessor shall cause janitorial services provided to Premises to meet or exceed the following standards: DAILY SERVICES 1. Clean all restrooms thoroughly each day, including, but not limited to, fixtures, mirrors, hardware, wash basins, partitions, doors, and tile surfaces. 2. Disinfect all toilets, urinals, and wash basins and mop floors nightly. 3. Inspect supplies in restroom dispensers daily and replace as necessary. 4. Empty and wipe out ash trays with a damp cloth. 5. Empty all trash containers throughout the premises. 6. Clean and disinfect drinking fountains. 7. Vacuum or spot-vacuum carpets as necessary around entry and heavy traffic areas. Spot- clean carpets periodically as needed. 8. Remove spots and finger marks from glass on entry doors and all interior partitions. 9. Dust counter tops, desktops, cabinets, tables, low wall partitions, window sills, and telephones. 10. Sweep uncarpeted floors nightly and spot-mop as needed. WEEKLY SERVICES 1. Vacuum all carpets thoroughly throughout the premises. 2. Dust building completely. 3. Mop all vinyl floor areas weekly and strip, wax, and buff when necessary. 4. Replace trash container liners as necessary. Exhibit D – page 2 TWICE YEARLY 1. Wash windows, window screens, and glass on both sides two times per year in May and November. 2. Clean all ventilation grills. ONCE YEARLY 1. Wash and clean all light fixtures inside and outside. SUPPLIES AND EQUIPMENT 1. Lessor shall furnish all paper supplies, such as seat covers, towels, toilet tissue, sanitary napkins, soap for sink dispensers, and trash container liners. 2. Lessor shall furnish all equipment, tools, and cleaning supplies such as carpet cleaner, disinfectant, wax, and other supplies, or chemicals required. MISCELLANEOUS 1. Lessor shall cause the janitor room to be kept neat, clean, and free of debris. 2. Lessor shall cause the janitor to lock all doors and windows, set night lights and alarm system before leaving Building at the end of the day. 3. Lessor shall keep all sidewalks broom clean and landscaping free of debris within a 12- foot distance from the perimeter of the building. 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2764 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/15/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director, or designee, to execute a new lease between the County, as lessee, and RPE MUIR, LLC, as lessor, under which the County is leasing a total of approximately 1,332 square feet of office space in the building located at 1330 Arnold Drive, Suite 249, Martinez, through September 30, 2029, at an initial annual rent of $30,370, with annual increases thereafter. (100% Hospital Enterprise Funds) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Warren Lai, Public Works Director/Chief Engineer Report Title:Lease of Office Space at 1330 Arnold Drive, Suite 249, Martinez. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director,or designee,to execute a new lease between the County,as lessee,and RPE MUIR,LLC,as lessor,under which the County is leasing approximately 1,332 square feet of office space in the building located at 1330 Arnold Drive,Suite 249,Martinez,through September 30, 2029. AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director, or designee, to exercise any options to extend the lease term. FISCAL IMPACT: The annual rent in the first year is $30,370,with annual increases thereafter.100%Health Services Department Org 6651 - Enterprise Fund I BACKGROUND: Several staff from the Materials Management group are working out of 50 Douglas and others are scattered throughout the Contra Costa Regional Medical Center (CCRMC).Staff from this group assigned to work in the G Ward at CCRMC need a stable office location to conduct essential County business.Between this lease and a second,concurrent lease at 1340 Arnold Drive,Suite 115,the Materials Management group will have a stable office location. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If this lease is not approved,the Health Services Department -Materials Management group may experience CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2764,Version:1 disruptions in its ability to conduct essential County business. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1 LEASE Health Services Department – Materials Management 1340 Arnold Drive, Suite 115 Martinez, CA 94553 This lease is dated September 10, 2024, and is between RPE MUIR, LLC, a California limited liability company (“Lessor”) and the County of Contra Costa, a political subdivision of the State of California (“County”). Recitals A. Lessor is the owner of the building located at 1340 Arnold Drive, California (the “Building”). B. Lessor desires to lease to County and County desires to lease from Lessor a portion of the Building consisting of approximately 1,531 square feet of floor space known as Suite 115 (the “Premises”), along with the non-exclusive use of 4 parking stalls. The parties therefore agree as follows: Agreement 1. Lease of Premises. In consideration of the rents and subject to the terms of this lease, Lessor hereby leases to County and County hereby leases from Lessor, the Premises. 2. Term. The “Term” of this lease is comprised of an Initial Term and, at County’s election, Renewal Terms, each as defined below. a. Initial Term. The “Initial Term” is approximately five years, beginning on the later to occur of (i) September 15, 2024, and (ii) the date the Tenant Improvements, as defined below, are completed (the “Commencement Date”) and ending September 30, 2029. b. Renewal Terms. County has two options to renew this lease for a term of two years for each option (each, a “Renewal Term”) upon all the terms and conditions set forth in this lease. i. County will provide Lessor with written notice of its election to renew the lease thirty days prior to the end of the Term. However, if County fails to provide such notice, its right to renew the lease will not expire until fifteen working days after County’s receipt of Lessor’s written demand that County exercise or forfeit the option to renew. 2 ii. Upon the commencement of a Renewal Term, all references to the Term of this lease will be deemed to mean the Term as extended pursuant to this Section. 3. Rent. County shall pay rent (“Rent”) to Lessor monthly in advance beginning on the Commencement Date. Rent is payable on the tenth day of each month during the Initial Term and, if applicable, the Renewal Terms, in the amounts set forth below: Initial Term Monthly Rent Commencement Date – September 30, 2025 $2,908.90 October 1, 2025 - September 30, 2026 $2,996.17 October 1, 2026 - September 30, 2027 $3,086.05 October 1, 2027 - September 30, 2028 $3,178.63 October 1, 2028 - September 30, 2029 $3,273.99 First Renewal Term Monthly Rent October 1, 2029 - September 30, 2030 $3,372.21 October 1, 2030 - September 30, 2031 $3,473.38 Second Renewal Term Monthly Rent October 1, 2031 - September 30, 2032 $3,577.58 October 1, 2032 - September 30, 2033 $3,684.91 Rent for any fractional month will be prorated and computed on a daily basis with each day’s rent equal to one-thirtieth (1/30) of the monthly Rent. 4. Tenant Improvements. Prior to the Commencement Date, Lessor shall cause the following improvements to be made to the Premises (together, the “Tenant Improvements”): a. Install new cabinets and solid-surface countertops in the Break Room in color and style to be agreed to by the County. b. Remove dishwasher in Break Room. c. Install carpet squares in all offices in colors and patterns to be agreed to by the County. d. Create data closet in location depicted on Exhibit A. e. Remove existing door between suites or lock in a way that is 100% secure. 3 f. Replace blinds throughout the Premises with building standard white blinds if they have not already been replaced. When the Tenant Improvements are complete, Lessor shall tender delivery to County by delivering a “Completion Notice” in substantial conformity with Exhibit B; provided, however, if the Tenant Improvements are not completed and the Premises delivered to County by October 1, 2024, County may terminate this lease. 5. Use. County may use the Premises for the purpose of conducting various functions of County and any other purpose permitted by law, provided such use is not specifically prohibited by the building rules and regulations set forth in Exhibit C - Building Rules and Regulations. 6. Obligation to Pay Utilities and Janitorial. Lessor shall pay for all gas and electricity, water, sewer, and refuse collection services provided to the Premises, provided, however, if County installs a supplemental cooling unit, then Lessor shall install a separate meter to measure the electrical consumption of such cooling unit and County will reimburse Lessor for the actual cost of the electrical consumption of such cooling unit and the cost for the meter, including installation. Lessor shall pay for all janitorial services provided to the Premises, which services are to conform to the specifications set forth in Exhibit D – Janitorial Specifications. 7. Maintenance and Repairs. a. Roof and Exterior of Premises. Lessor shall keep the roof and exterior of the Premises in good order, condition, and repair, and shall maintain the structural integrity of the Building, including the exterior doors and their fixtures, closers and hinges, exterior windows, glass and glazing, and all locks and key systems used in the Premises. b. Interior of Premises. County shall keep and maintain the interior of the Premises in good order, condition, and repair, but Lessor shall repair damage to the interior caused by its failure to maintain the exterior in good repair, including damage to the interior caused by roof leaks and/or interior and exterior wall leaks. The County may install and maintain an alarm system, if deemed necessary by County. c. Utilities. Lessor shall repair and maintain the electrical, lighting, water, and plumbing systems in good order, condition, and repair. d. HVAC. Lessor shall maintain and repair the heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems. e. Parking; Exterior Lighting; Landscaping. Lessor shall maintain the parking lot, exterior lighting system, and landscaping in good order, condition, and repair. 4 f. Services by Lessor. If County determines that the Premises are in need of maintenance, construction, remodeling or similar work that is beyond Lessor’s responsibilities under this lease, at County’s request, Lessor shall perform the work at County’s expense. In performing the work, Lessor shall consult with County and use either licensed insured contractors or employees of Lessor. Lessor shall obtain County’s prior written approval of the scope, terms, and cost of any contracts. County may, by giving Lessor thirty (30) days prior written notice, change the scope of work, terminate any or all work, or require that work be performed by a different contractor. 8. Quiet Enjoyment. Provided County is in compliance with the material terms of this lease, Lessor shall warrant and defend County in the quiet enjoyment and possession of the Premises during the Term. 9. Assignment and Sublease. County has the right to assign this lease or sublease the Premises or any part of the Premises at any time during the Term. Upon the assignment of the lease by County, the County will have no further obligation under the lease. Any assignment of the Lease to an assignee shall require the approval of Lessor, which may be reasonably conditioned or denied. 10. Alterations; Fixtures and Signs. County may (i) make any lawful and proper minor alterations to the Premises and (ii) attach fixtures and signs (“County Fixtures”) in or upon the Premises. Any County Fixtures will remain the property of County and may be removed from the Premises by County at any time during the Term. County is responsible for the cost of all alterations and County Fixtures. All alterations and County Fixtures are subject to Lessor’s approval and must comply with existing code requirements. 11. Insurance. a. Liability Insurance. Throughout the Term, County shall maintain in full force and effect, at its sole expense, a general self-insurance program covering bodily injury (including death), personal injury, and property damage, including loss of use. County shall provide Lessor with a letter of self-insurance affirming the existence of the self-insurance program. b. Self-Insurance Exclusion. County’s self-insurance does not provide coverage for (i) areas to be maintained by Lessor under this lease, or (ii) negligence, willful misconduct, or other intentional act, error or omission of Lessor, its officers, agents, or employees. 12. Surrender of Premises. On the last day of the Term, or sooner termination of this lease, County shall peaceably and quietly leave and surrender to Lessor the Premises, along with appurtenances and fixtures at the Premises (except County Fixtures), all in good condition, ordinary wear and tear, damage by casualty, condemnation, acts of God and Lessor’s failure to make repairs required of Lessor excepted. County is not responsible 5 for painting or for repairing or replacing any floor coverings in the Premises upon the expiration or earlier termination of this lease. 13. Waste, Nuisance. County may not commit, or suffer to be committed, any waste upon the Premises, or any nuisance or other act or thing that may disturb the quiet enjoyment of any other occupant of the Building. 14. Inspection. Lessor, or its proper representative or contractor, may enter the Premises by prior appointment between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, holidays excepted, to determine that (i) the Premises is being reasonably cared for, (ii) no waste is being made and that all actions affecting the Premises are done in the manner best calculated to preserve the Premises, and (iii) County is in compliance with the terms and conditions of this lease. 15. Perilous Conditions. If the County’s Director of Public Works becomes aware of a perilous condition on the Premises that, in his or her opinion, substantially and significantly threatens the health and safety of County employees and/or invitees (a “Perilous Condition”), the Director of Public Works, or his or her designee, will immediately notify Lessor of the Perilous Condition and Lessor shall use best efforts to immediately eliminate the Perilous Condition. Lessor shall immediately address any condition reasonably constituting an emergency, whether Lessor learns of the condition through County or otherwise. If Lessor fails to address a Perilous Condition within twenty-four (24) hours after County’s notice or to immediately address an emergency, County may attempt to resolve the Perilous Condition or emergency. Lessor shall reimburse County for any costs incurred by County in addressing the Perilous Condition or emergency promptly upon receipt of County’s invoice. 16. Destruction. If damage occurs that causes a partial destruction of the Premises during the Term from any cause and repairs can be made within sixty days from the date of the damage under the applicable laws and regulations of government authorities, Lessor shall repair the damage promptly. Such partial destruction will not void this lease, except that County will be entitled to a proportionate reduction in Rent while the repairs are being made. The proportionate reduction in Rent will be calculated by multiplying Rent by a fraction, the numerator of which is the number of square feet that are unusable by County and the denominator of which is the total number of square feet in the Premises. If repairs cannot be made in sixty days, County will have the option to terminate the lease or request that Lessor make the repairs within a reasonable time, in which case, Lessor will make the repairs and Rent will be proportionately reduced as provided in the previous paragraph. This lease will terminate in the event of the total destruction of the Premises. 6 17. Hazardous Material. Lessor warrants to County that Lessor does not have any knowledge of the presence of Hazardous Material (as defined below) or contamination of the Building or Premises in violation of environmental laws. Lessor shall defend, save, protect and hold County harmless from any loss arising out of the presence of any Hazardous Material on the Premises that was not brought to the Premises by or at the request of County, its agents, contractors, invitees or employees. Lessor acknowledges and agrees that County has no obligation to clean up or remediate or contribute to the cost of cleanup or remediation, of any Hazardous Material unless such Hazardous Material is released, discharged or spilled on or about the Premises by County or any of its agents, employees, contractors, invitees or other representatives. The obligations of this Section shall survive the expiration or earlier termination of this lease. “Hazardous Material” means any substance, material or waste, including lead-based paint, asbestos and petroleum (including crude oil or any fraction thereof), that is or becomes designated as a hazardous substance, hazardous waste, hazardous material, toxic substance, or toxic material under any federal, state or local law, regulation, or ordinance. 18. Indemnification. a. County. County shall defend, indemnify and hold Lessor harmless from County’s share of any and all claims, costs and liability for any damage, injury or death of or to any person or the property of any person, including attorneys’ fees, caused by the willful misconduct or the negligent acts, errors, or omissions of County, its officers, agents or employees in using the Premises pursuant to this lease, or the County’s performance under this lease, except to the extent caused or contributed to by (i) the structural, mechanical, or other failure of buildings owned or maintained by Lessor, and/or (ii) the negligent acts, errors, or omissions of Lessor, its officers, agents, or employees. b. Lessor. Lessor shall defend, indemnify and hold County harmless from Lessor’s share of any and all claims, costs and liability for any damage, injury or death of or to any person or the property of any person, including attorneys’ fees, caused by the willful misconduct or the negligent acts, errors or omissions of Lessor, its officers, agents, employees, with respect to the Premises, or Lessor’s performance under this lease, or the Lessor’s performance, delivery or supervision of services at the Premises, or by the structural, mechanical or other failure of buildings owned or maintained by Lessor, except to the extent caused or contributed to by the negligent acts, errors, or omissions of County, its officers, agents, or employees. 19. Default. The occurrence of any of the following events is a default under this lease: 7 a. County. i. County’s failure to pay Rent within ten business days after receipt of a written notice of failure (a “Notice”) from Lessor to County; provided, however, that County will have additional time if its failure to pay Rent is due to circumstances beyond its reasonable control, including, without limitation, failure of the County’s Board of Supervisors to adopt a budget. In no event may such additional time exceed seventy-five days from receipt of a Notice. ii. County’s failure to comply with any other material term or provision of this lease if the failure is not remedied within thirty days after receipt of a Notice from Lessor to County specifying the nature of the breach in reasonably sufficient detail; provided, however, if the default cannot reasonably be remedied within the thirty day period, then a default will not be deemed to occur until the occurrence of County’s failure to comply within the period of time that may be reasonably required to remedy the default, up to an aggregate of ninety days, provided County commences curing the default within thirty days and thereafter diligently proceeds to cure the default. b. Lessor. Lessor’s failure to perform any obligation under this lease if the failure is not remedied within thirty days after receipt of a Notice from County to Lessor specifying the nature of the breach in reasonably sufficient detail; provided, however, if the breach cannot reasonably be remedied within the thirty day period, then a default will not be deemed to occur until the occurrence of Lessor’s failure to perform within the period of time that may be reasonably required to remedy the breach, up to an aggregate of ninety days, provided Lessor commences curing the breach within thirty days and thereafter diligently proceeds to cure the breach. 20. Remedies. a. Lessor. Upon the occurrence of a default by County, Lessor may, after giving County written notice of the default, and in accordance with due process of law, reenter and repossess the Premises and remove all persons and property from the Premises. b. County. Upon the occurrence of a default by Lessor, County may (i) terminate this lease by giving written notice to Lessor and quit the Premises without further cost or obligation to County or (ii) proceed to repair or correct the failure and, at County’s option, either deduct the cost thereof from Rent due to Lessor, or invoice Lessor for the cost of repair, which invoice Lessor shall pay promptly upon receipt. 21. Notices. Any notice required or permitted under this lease must be in writing and sent by overnight delivery service or registered or certified mail, postage prepaid and directed as follows: 8 To Lessor: RPE Muir, LLC. 1343 Locust Street #24 Walnut Creek, CA 94596 With a copy to: Bay Wide Properties 251 Lafayette Circle #120 Lafayette, CA 94549 To County: Contra Costa County Public Works Department Attn: Principal Real Property Agent 255 Glacier Drive Martinez, CA 94553 Either party may at any time designate in writing a substitute address for the address set forth above and thereafter notices are to be directed to such substituted address. If sent in accordance with this Section, all notices will be deemed effective (i) the next business day, if sent by overnight courier, or (ii) three days after being deposited in the United States Postal system. 22. Successors and Assigns. This lease binds and inures to the benefit of the heirs, successors, and assigns of the parties hereto. 23. Holding Over. Any holding over after the Term of this lease is a tenancy from month to month and is subject to the terms of this lease. 24. Time is of the Essence. In fulfilling all terms and conditions of this lease, time is of the essence. 25. Governing Law. The laws of the State of California govern all matters arising out of this lease. 26. Severability. In the event that any provision of this lease is held to be invalid or unenforceable in any respect, the validity and enforceability of the remaining provisions of this lease will not in any way be affected or impaired. 27. Real Estate Commission. In negotiating this lease, Lessor is unrepresented, and the County represents itself. Lessor recognizes and acknowledges that the County is entitled to a real estate commission when it represents itself. The County warrants to Lessor that County’s contact with Lessor in connection with this Lease has been with Lessor through Lessor’s property management. Lessor shall pay to County a real estate commission in the amount of $4,633.12 (the “County Commission”) on the Commencement Date. 9 Lessor and County warrant that no other broker or finder can properly claim a right to a leasing commission or a finder's fee based upon contacts with the County with respect to the Building. Lessor and County shall indemnify, defend, protect and hold each other harmless from and against any loss, cost or expense, including, but not limited to, attorneys' fees and costs, or the payment of a real estate commission to any party resulting from any claim for a fee or commission by any broker or finder, in connection with the Building and this lease. [Remainder of Page Intentionally Left Blank] 10 28. Entire Agreement; Construction; Modification. Neither party has relied on any promise or representation not contained in this lease. All previous conversations, negotiations, and understandings are of no further force or effect. This lease is not to be construed as if it had been prepared by one of the parties, but rather as if both parties prepared it. This lease may be modified only by a writing signed by both parties. The parties are executing this lease on the date set forth in the introductory paragraph. COUNTY OF CONTRA COSTA, a RPE MUIR LLC political subdivision of the State of California By: _______________________ By: _______________________ Warren Lai Ronald P. Elvidge Public Works Director President RECOMMENDED FOR APPROVAL: By: _______________________ Jessica L. Dillingham Principal Real Property Agent By: _______________________ Margaret J. Eychner Senior Real Property Agent APPROVED AS TO FORM THOMAS L. GEIGER, COUNTY COUNSEL By: _______________________ Kathleen M. Andrus Deputy County Counsel WLP503 G:\realprop\LEASE MANAGEMENT\MARTINEZ\1340 ARNOLD DR STE 115 - T00___\LEASES\1340 Arnold Dr Ste 115 - Lease - V2.docx Exhibit A – page 1 EXHIBIT A Exhibit B – page 1 EXHIBIT B FORM OF COMPLETION NOTICE To: Contra Costa County From: RPE MUIR, LLC Date: Re: Completion Notice This notice is provided in compliance with Section 4 of that certain Lease dated _____________ between RPE MUIR, LLC, and Contra Costa County (the “Lease”). All terms not otherwise defined herein have the meaning ascribed to them in the Lease. Tender by Lessor Lessor hereby represents that it has completed construction of the Tenant Improvements in substantial conformity to Section 4. Lessor hereby tenders the Premises for delivery to Tenant. RPE MUIR, LLC By: _____________________ Its: _____________________ Certification by Contra Costa County The undersigned, a duly authorized representative of Contra Costa County, hereby represents that the County has caused the Tenant Improvements to be inspected and has determined them to be in substantial conformity with the Final Plans. Contra Costa County By: _____________________ Date: _________________ Its: _____________________ Exhibit C – page 1 EXHIBIT C BUILDING RULES AND REGULATIONS CONTRA COSTA COUNTY 1340 Arnold Drive, Suite 115, Martinez, California 1. No sign, placard, picture, advertisement, name or notice shall be installed or displayed on any part of the outside or inside of the Building without the prior written consent of Lessor. Lessor shall have the right to remove, at County’s expense and without notice, any sign installed or displayed in violation of this rule. All approved signs or lettering on doors and walls shall be printed, painted, affixed or inscribed at the expense of County by a person chosen by Lessor. 2. If Lessor objects in writing to any curtains, blinds, shades, screens or hanging plants or other similar objects attached to or used in connection with any window or door of the Premises, County shall immediately discontinue such use. No awning shall be permitted on any part of the Premises. County shall not place anything against or near glass partitions or doors or windows which may appear unsightly from outside the Premises. 3. County shall not obstruct any sidewalks, halls, passages, exits, entrances, elevators, or stairways of the Building. The halls, passages, exits, entrances, elevators, and stairways are not open to the general public. Lessor shall in all cases retain the right to control and prevent access thereto of all persons whose presence in the judgment of Lessor would be prejudicial to the safety, character, reputation and interest of the Building and its Tenants/County; provided that nothing herein contained shall be construed to prevent such access to persons with whom County normally deals in the ordinary course of its business, unless such persons are engaged in illegal activities. No employee or invitee of County shall go upon the roof of the Building. 4. The directory of the Building will be provided exclusively for the display of the name and location of all tenants in the building including the County. 5. All cleaning and janitorial services for the Building and the Premises shall be provided exclusively through Lessor, and except with the written consent of Lessor, no person or persons other than those approved by Lessor shall be permitted to enter the Building for the purpose of cleaning the same. County shall not cause any unnecessary labor by carelessness or indifference to the good order and cleanliness of the Premises. Lessor shall not in any way be responsible to any County for any loss of personal property on the Premises, however occurring, or for any damage to any County’s personal property by the janitor or any other employee or any other person. 6. Lessor will furnish County, at County’s cost (unless such cost is paid from any County improvement allowance, if applicable, available to County by Lessor); with six keys to each Exhibit C – page 2 door lock in the Premises. Lessor may make a reasonable charge for any additional keys. County shall not make or have made additional keys, and County shall not alter any lock or install a new additional lock or bolt on any door of its Premises. County, upon the termination of its tenancy, shall deliver to Lessor the keys of all doors which have been furnished to County, and in the event of loss of any keys so furnished, shall pay Lessor therefor. 7. If County requires telegraphic, telephonic, burglar alarm or similar services, it shall first obtain, and comply with, Lessor’s instructions in their installation. 8. Any freight elevator shall be available for use by all Tenants in the Building, subject to such reasonable scheduling as Lessor in its discretion shall deem appropriate. No equipment, materials, furniture, packages, supplies, merchandise or other property will be received in the Building or carried in the elevators except between such hours and in such elevators as may be designated by Lessor. 9. County shall not place a load upon any floor of the Premises that exceeds the load per square foot that such floor was designed to carry and which is allowed by law. Lessor shall have the right to prescribe the weight, size and position of all equipment, materials, furniture or other property brought into the Building. Heavy objects shall, if considered necessary by Lessor, stand on such platforms as determined by Lessor to be necessary to properly distribute the weight. Business machines and mechanical equipment belonging to County, which cause noise or vibration that may be transmitted to the structure of the Building or to any space therein to such a degree as to be objectionable to Lessor or to any Tenants/County in the Building, shall be placed and maintained by County, at County’s expense, on vibration eliminators or other devices sufficient to eliminate noise or vibration. The persons employed to move such equipment in or out of the Building must be acceptable to Lessor. Lessor will not be responsible for loss of, or damage to, any such equipment or other property from any cause, and all damage done to the Building by maintaining or moving such equipment or other property shall be repaired at the expense of County. COUNTY shall notify Lessor of the names of all persons or companies to be employed or retained by County to move equipment or other articles in or out of the Building or Premises on behalf of the County (collectively, “movers”) prior to commencing any moving. County shall reasonably cooperate with Lessor to cause all such movers to maintain the following insurance in connection with the moving of equipment or other articles in or out of the Building or Premises, as the case may be (and to provide Lessor with a certificate of insurance evidencing such insurance is being maintained): (i) workers compensation insurance in such amounts as may be required by law; and (ii) commercial general liability insurance (including owned and non-owned automobile liability), on an occurrence basis, with limits of no less than $1,000,000 per occurrence. Such commercial general liability policies shall (i) name Lessor and its managing agent as additional insureds; and (ii) is primary to and non-contributory with any insurance policies carried by Lessor or such managing agent. 10. County shall not use or keep in the Premises any kerosene, gasoline or other inflammable or combustible fluid or material other than those limited quantities necessary for the operation or maintenance of office equipment. County shall not use or permit to be used in the Premises any foul or noxious gas or substance or permit or allow the Premises to be occupied or used Exhibit C – page 3 in a manner offensive or objectionable to Lessor or other occupants of the Building by reason of noise, odors or vibrations, nor shall County bring into or keep in or about the Premises any birds or animals. 11. County shall not use any method of heating or air-conditioning other than that supplied by Lessor. 12. County shall not waste electricity, water or air-conditioning and agrees to cooperate fully with Lessor to assure the most effective operation of the Building’s heating and air- conditioning and to comply with any governmental energy-saving rules, laws or regulations of which County has actual notice, and shall refrain from adjusting controls. County shall keep corridor doors closed and shall close window coverings at the end of each business day. 13. Lessor reserves the right, exercisable without notice and without liability to County, to change the name and street address of the Building. 14. Lessor reserves the right to exclude from the Building between the hours of 6 P.M. and 7 A.M. the following day, or such other hours as may be established from time to time by Lessor, and on Sundays and legal holidays, any person unless that person is known to the person or employee in charge of the Building and has a pass or is properly identified. County shall be responsible for all persons for whom it requests passes and shall be responsible for all acts of such persons. Lessor shall not be liable for damages for any error with regard to the admission to or exclusion from the Building of any person. Lessor reserves the right to prevent access to the Building in case of invasion, mob, riot, public excitement or other commotion by closing the doors or by other appropriate action. 15. County shall close and lock the doors of its Premises and entirely shut off all water faucets or other water apparatus, and electricity, gas or air outlets before County and its employees leave the Premises. County shall be responsible for any damage or injuries sustained by other Tenants/County or occupants of the Building or by Lessor for noncompliance with this rule. 16. County shall not obtain for use on the Premises food, beverage, towel, car washing or detailing or other similar services or accept barbering, bootblacking or car washing or detailing service upon the Premises, except at such hours and under such regulations as may be fixed by Lessor. 17. The toilet rooms, toilets, urinals, wash bowls and other apparatus shall not be used for any purpose other than that for which they were constructed, and no foreign substance of any kind whatsoever shall be thrown therein. The expense of any breakage, stoppage or damage resulting from the violation of this rule shall be borne by the County who, or whose employees or invitees, shall have caused it. 18. County shall not sell, or permit the sale at retail, of newspapers, magazines, periodicals, theater tickets or any other goods or merchandise to the general public in or on the Premises. County shall not make any room-to-room solicitation of business or activity other than that specifically provided for in the County’s lease. Exhibit C – page 4 19. County shall not install any radio or television antenna, loudspeaker or other device on the roof or exterior walls of the Building. County shall not interfere with radio or television broadcasting or reception from or in the Building or elsewhere. 20. County shall not mark, drive nails, screw or drill into the partitions, woodwork or plaster or in any way deface the Premises or any part thereof. Lessor reserves the right to direct electricians as to where and how telephone and telegraph wires are to be introduced to the Premises. County shall maintain their telephone, telegraph, telecommunications wires and systems. County shall not cut or bore holes for wires. County shall not affix any floor covering to the floor of the Premises in any manner except as approved by Lessor. County shall repair any damage resulting from noncompliance with this rule. 21. County shall not install, maintain, or operate upon the Premises any vending machine without the written consent of Lessor. 22. Canvassing, soliciting and distribution of handbills or any other written material, and peddling in the Building are prohibited, and each Tenant/County shall cooperate to prevent same. 23. Lessor reserves the right to exclude or expel from the Building any person who, in Lessor’s judgment, is intoxicated or under the influence of liquor or drugs or who is in violation of any of the Rules and Regulations of the Building. 24. County shall store all its trash and garbage within its Premises. County shall not place in any trash box or receptacle any material that cannot be disposed of in the ordinary and customary manner of trash and garbage disposal. All garbage disposals shall be made in accordance with the directions issued from time to time by Lessor. 25. The Premises shall not be used for the storage of merchandise held for sale to the general public, or for lodging or for manufacturing of any kind, nor shall the Premises be used for any improper, immoral or objectionable purpose. No cooking shall be done or permitted by any Tenant/County on the premises except that use by County of Underwriters’ Laboratory- approved equipment for brewing coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and similar beverages shall be permitted, provided that such equipment and use is in accordance with all applicable federal, state, county and city laws, codes, ordinances, rules and regulations. 26. County shall not use in any space or in the public halls of the Building any hand trucks except those equipped with rubber tires and side guards or such other material-handling equipment as Lessor may approve. County shall not bring vehicles or bicycles of any kind into the Building. 27. Without the written consent of Lessor, County shall not use the name of the Building in connection with or in promoting or advertising the business of County except as County’s address. Exhibit C – page 5 28. County shall comply with all safety, fire protection and evacuation procedures and regulations established by Lessor or any other governmental agency. 29. County assumes any and all responsibility for protecting its Premises from theft, robbery and pilferage, which includes keeping doors locked and other means of entry to the Premise closed. 30. The requirements of County will be attended to only upon appropriate application to the office of the Building by an authorized individual: Employees of Lessor shall not perform any work or do anything outside of their regular duties unless under specific instruction by Lessor. 31. County shall not park its vehicles in any parking areas designated by the Lessor as areas for parking by visitors to the Building. County shall not leave vehicles in the Building parking areas overnight nor park any vehicles in the Building parking areas other than automobiles, motorcycles, motor driven or non-motor driven bicycles or four wheeled trucks. County shall direct its agents, guests, affiliates, visitors, and invitees coming to the Project for conferences, training, or meetings to park in the overflow parking area designated by the Lessor (“Conference Parking”). Lessor, at Lessor’s sole discretion, shall have the right to relocate said Conference Parking. Lessor shall provide County a minimum of a twenty-four (24) hour written notice of such relocation unless such relocation is due to an emergency or other situation that Lessor was not provided ample notification of. 32. Lessor may waive any one or more of these Rules and Regulations for the benefit of County or any other Tenant, but no such waiver by Lessor shall be construed as a continuous waiver of such Rules and Regulations in favor of County or any other Tenant, nor prevent Lessor from thereafter enforcing any such Rules and Regulations against the County or any or all of the other Tenants of the Building. 33. These Rules and Regulations are in addition to and shall not be construed to in any way modify or amend, in whole or in part, the terms, covenants, agreements and conditions of any lease of premises in the Building. 34. Lessor reserves the right to make such other reasonable Rules and Regulations as, in its judgment, may from time to time be needed for safety and security, for care and cleanliness of the Building and for the preservation of good order therein. County agrees to abide by all such Rules and Regulations hereinabove stated and for any additional rules and regulations that are adopted. 35. County shall be responsible for the observance of all foregoing rules by County’s employees, agents, clients, customers, invitees and guests. Exhibit D – page 1 EXHIBIT D JANITORIAL SPECIFICATIONS CONTRA COSTA COUNTY 1340 Arnold Drive, Suite 115, Martinez, California Lessor shall cause janitorial services provided to Premises to meet or exceed the following standards: DAILY SERVICES 1. Clean all restrooms thoroughly each day, including, but not limited to, fixtures, mirrors, hardware, wash basins, partitions, doors, and tile surfaces. 2. Disinfect all toilets, urinals, and wash basins and mop floors nightly. 3. Inspect supplies in restroom dispensers daily and replace as necessary. 4. Empty and wipe out ash trays with a damp cloth. 5. Empty all trash containers throughout the premises. 6. Clean and disinfect drinking fountains. 7. Vacuum or spot-vacuum carpets as necessary around entry and heavy traffic areas. Spot- clean carpets periodically as needed. 8. Remove spots and finger marks from glass on entry doors and all interior partitions. 9. Dust counter tops, desktops, cabinets, tables, low wall partitions, window sills, and telephones. 10. Sweep uncarpeted floors nightly and spot-mop as needed. WEEKLY SERVICES 1. Vacuum all carpets thoroughly throughout the premises. 2. Dust building completely. 3. Mop all vinyl floor areas weekly and strip, wax, and buff when necessary. 4. Replace trash container liners as necessary. Exhibit D – page 2 TWICE YEARLY 1. Wash windows, window screens, and glass on both sides two times per year in May and November. 2. Clean all ventilation grills. ONCE YEARLY 1. Wash and clean all light fixtures inside and outside. SUPPLIES AND EQUIPMENT 1. Lessor shall furnish all paper supplies, such as seat covers, towels, toilet tissue, sanitary napkins, soap for sink dispensers, and trash container liners. 2. Lessor shall furnish all equipment, tools, and cleaning supplies such as carpet cleaner, disinfectant, wax, and other supplies, or chemicals required. MISCELLANEOUS 1. Lessor shall cause the janitor room to be kept neat, clean, and free of debris. 2. Lessor shall cause the janitor to lock all doors and windows, set night lights and alarm system before leaving Building at the end of the day. 3. Lessor shall keep all sidewalks broom clean and landscaping free of debris within a 12- foot distance from the perimeter of the building. 1 LEASE Health Services Department – Materials Management 1330 Arnold Drive, Suite 249 Martinez, CA 94553 This lease is dated September 10, 2024, and is between RPE MUIR, LLC, a California limited liability company (“Lessor”) and the County of Contra Costa, a political subdivision of the State of California (“County”). Recitals A. Lessor is the owner of the building located at 1330 Arnold Drive, California (the “Building”). B. Lessor desires to lease to County and County desires to lease from Lessor a portion of the Building consisting of approximately 1,332 square feet of floor space known as Suite 249 (the “Premises”), along with the non-exclusive use of 3.3 parking stalls. The parties therefore agree as follows: Agreement 1. Lease of Premises. In consideration of the rents and subject to the terms of this lease, Lessor hereby leases to County and County hereby leases from Lessor, the Premises. 2. Term. The “Term” of this lease is comprised of an Initial Term and, at County’s election, Renewal Terms, each as defined below. a. Initial Term. The “Initial Term” is approximately five years beginning on the later to occur of (i) September 15, 2024, and (ii) the date the Tenant Improvements, as defined below, are completed (the “Commencement Date”) and ending September 30, 2029. b. Renewal Terms. County has two options to renew this lease for a term of two years for each option (each, a “Renewal Term”) upon all the terms and conditions set forth in this lease. i. County will provide Lessor with written notice of its election to renew the lease thirty days prior to the end of the Term. However, if County fails to provide such notice, its right to renew the lease will not expire until fifteen working days after County’s receipt of Lessor’s written demand that County exercise or forfeit the option to renew. 2 ii. Upon the commencement of a Renewal Term, all references to the Term of this lease will be deemed to mean the Term as extended pursuant to this Section. 3. Rent. County shall pay rent (“Rent”) to Lessor monthly in advance beginning on the Commencement Date. Rent is payable on the tenth day of each month during the Initial Term and, if applicable, the Renewal Terms, in the amounts set forth below: Initial Term Monthly Rent Commencement Date – September 30, 2025 $2,530.80 October 1, 2025 - September 30, 2026 $2,606.72 October 1, 2026 - September 30, 2027 $2,684.93 October 1, 2027 - September 30, 2028 $2,765.47 October 1, 2028 - September 30, 2029 $2,848.44 First Renewal Term Monthly Rent October 1, 2029 - September 30, 2030 $2,933.89 October 1, 2030 - September 30, 2031 $3,021.91 Second Renewal Term Monthly Rent October 1, 2031 - September 30, 2032 $3,112.56 October 1, 2032 - September 30, 2033 $3,205.94 Rent for any fractional month will be prorated and computed on a daily basis with each day’s rent equal to one-thirtieth (1/30) of the monthly Rent. 4. Tenant Improvements. Prior to the Commencement Date, Lessor shall cause the following improvements to be made to the Premises (together, the “Tenant Improvements”): a. Install new carpet squares throughout the Premises in colors and patterns agreed to by the County. b. Touch up paint throughout the Premises. c. Replace blinds throughout the Premises with building standard white blinds if they have not already been replaced. When the Tenant Improvements are complete, Lessor shall tender delivery to County by delivering a “Completion Notice” in substantial conformity with Exhibit A; provided, 3 however, if the Tenant Improvements are not completed and the Premises delivered to County by October 1, 2024, County may terminate this lease. 5. Use. County may use the Premises for the purpose of conducting various functions of County and any other purpose permitted by law, provided such use is not specifically prohibited by the building rules and regulations set forth in Exhibit B - Building Rules and Regulations. 6. Obligation to Pay Utilities and Janitorial. Lessor shall pay for all gas and electricity, water, sewer, and refuse collection services provided to the Premises, provided, however, if County installs a supplemental cooling unit, then Lessor shall install a separate meter to measure the electrical consumption of such cooling unit and County will reimburse Lessor for the actual cost of the electrical consumption of such cooling unit and the cost for the meter, including installation. Lessor shall pay for all janitorial services provided to the Premises, which services are to conform to the specifications set forth in Exhibit C – Janitorial Specifications. 7. Maintenance and Repairs. a. Roof and Exterior of Premises. Lessor shall keep the roof and exterior of the Premises in good order, condition, and repair, and shall maintain the structural integrity of the Building, including the exterior doors and their fixtures, closers and hinges, exterior windows, glass and glazing, and all locks and key systems used in the Premises. b. Interior of Premises. County shall keep and maintain the interior of the Premises in good order, condition, and repair, but Lessor shall repair damage to the interior caused by its failure to maintain the exterior in good repair, including damage to the interior caused by roof leaks and/or interior and exterior wall leaks. The County may install and maintain an alarm system, if deemed necessary by County. c. Utilities. Lessor shall repair and maintain the electrical, lighting, water, and plumbing systems in good order, condition, and repair. d. HVAC. Lessor shall maintain and repair the heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems. e. Parking; Exterior Lighting; Landscaping. Lessor shall maintain the parking lot, exterior lighting system, and landscaping in good order, condition, and repair. f. Services by Lessor. If County determines that the Premises are in need of maintenance, construction, remodeling or similar work that is beyond Lessor’s responsibilities under this lease, at County’s request, Lessor shall perform the work at County’s expense. In performing the work, Lessor shall consult with County and use either licensed insured contractors or employees of Lessor. Lessor shall obtain County’s prior written approval of the scope, terms, and cost of any contracts. 4 County may, by giving Lessor thirty (30) days prior written notice, change the scope of work, terminate any or all work, or require that work be performed by a different contractor. 8. Quiet Enjoyment. Provided County is in compliance with the material terms of this lease, Lessor shall warrant and defend County in the quiet enjoyment and possession of the Premises during the Term. 9. Assignment and Sublease. County has the right to assign this lease or sublease the Premises or any part of the Premises at any time during the Term. Upon the assignment of the lease by County, the County will have no further obligation under the lease. Any assignment of the Lease to an assignee shall require the approval of Lessor, which may be reasonably conditioned or denied. 10. Alterations; Fixtures and Signs. County may (i) make any lawful and proper minor alterations to the Premises and (ii) attach fixtures and signs (“County Fixtures”) in or upon the Premises. Any County Fixtures will remain the property of County and may be removed from the Premises by County at any time during the Term. County is responsible for the cost of all alterations and County Fixtures. All alterations and County Fixtures are subject to Lessor’s approval and must comply with existing code requirements. 11. Insurance. a. Liability Insurance. Throughout the Term, County shall maintain in full force and effect, at its sole expense, a general self-insurance program covering bodily injury (including death), personal injury, and property damage, including loss of use. County shall provide Lessor with a letter of self-insurance affirming the existence of the self-insurance program. b. Self-Insurance Exclusion. County’s self-insurance does not provide coverage for (i) areas to be maintained by Lessor under this lease, or (ii) negligence, willful misconduct, or other intentional act, error or omission of Lessor, its officers, agents, or employees. 12. Surrender of Premises. On the last day of the Term, or sooner termination of this lease, County shall peaceably and quietly leave and surrender to Lessor the Premises, along with appurtenances and fixtures at the Premises (except County Fixtures), all in good condition, ordinary wear and tear, damage by casualty, condemnation, acts of God and Lessor’s failure to make repairs required of Lessor excepted. County is not responsible for painting or for repairing or replacing any floor coverings in the Premises upon the expiration or earlier termination of this lease. 13. Waste, Nuisance. County may not commit, or suffer to be committed, any waste upon the Premises, or any nuisance or other act or thing that may disturb the quiet enjoyment of any other occupant of the Building. 5 14. Inspection. Lessor, or its proper representative or contractor, may enter the Premises by prior appointment between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, holidays excepted, to determine that (i) the Premises is being reasonably cared for, (ii) no waste is being made and that all actions affecting the Premises are done in the manner best calculated to preserve the Premises, and (iii) County is in compliance with the terms and conditions of this lease. 15. Perilous Conditions. If the County’s Director of Public Works becomes aware of a perilous condition on the Premises that, in his or her opinion, substantially and significantly threatens the health and safety of County employees and/or invitees (a “Perilous Condition”), the Director of Public Works, or his or her designee, will immediately notify Lessor of the Perilous Condition and Lessor shall use best efforts to immediately eliminate the Perilous Condition. Lessor shall immediately address any condition reasonably constituting an emergency, whether Lessor learns of the condition through County or otherwise. If Lessor fails to address a Perilous Condition within twenty-four (24) hours after County’s notice or to immediately address an emergency, County may attempt to resolve the Perilous Condition or emergency. Lessor shall reimburse County for any costs incurred by County in addressing the Perilous Condition or emergency promptly upon receipt of County’s invoice. 16. Destruction. If damage occurs that causes a partial destruction of the Premises during the Term from any cause and repairs can be made within sixty days from the date of the damage under the applicable laws and regulations of government authorities, Lessor shall repair the damage promptly. Such partial destruction will not void this lease, except that County will be entitled to a proportionate reduction in Rent while the repairs are being made. The proportionate reduction in Rent will be calculated by multiplying Rent by a fraction, the numerator of which is the number of square feet that are unusable by County and the denominator of which is the total number of square feet in the Premises. If repairs cannot be made in sixty days, County will have the option to terminate the lease or request that Lessor make the repairs within a reasonable time, in which case, Lessor will make the repairs and Rent will be proportionately reduced as provided in the previous paragraph. This lease will terminate in the event of the total destruction of the Premises. 17. Hazardous Material. Lessor warrants to County that Lessor does not have any knowledge of the presence of Hazardous Material (as defined below) or contamination of the Building or Premises in violation of environmental laws. Lessor shall defend, save, protect and hold County harmless from any loss arising out of the presence of any Hazardous Material on the Premises that was not brought to the Premises by or at the request of County, its agents, contractors, invitees or employees. Lessor acknowledges 6 and agrees that County has no obligation to clean up or remediate or contribute to the cost of cleanup or remediation, of any Hazardous Material unless such Hazardous Material is released, discharged or spilled on or about the Premises by County or any of its agents, employees, contractors, invitees or other representatives. The obligations of this Section shall survive the expiration or earlier termination of this lease. “Hazardous Material” means any substance, material or waste, including lead based paint, asbestos and petroleum (including crude oil or any fraction thereof), that is or becomes designated as a hazardous substance, hazardous waste, hazardous material, toxic substance, or toxic material under any federal, state or local law, regulation, or ordinance. 18. Indemnification. a. County. County shall defend, indemnify and hold Lessor harmless from County’s share of any and all claims, costs and liability for any damage, injury or death of or to any person or the property of any person, including attorneys’ fees, caused by the willful misconduct or the negligent acts, errors, or omissions of County, its officers, agents or employees in using the Premises pursuant to this lease, or the County’s performance under this lease, except to the extent caused or contributed to by (i) the structural, mechanical, or other failure of buildings owned or maintained by Lessor, and/or (ii) the negligent acts, errors, or omissions of Lessor, its officers, agents, or employees. b. Lessor. Lessor shall defend, indemnify and hold County harmless from Lessor’s share of any and all claims, costs and liability for any damage, injury or death of or to any person or the property of any person, including attorneys’ fees, caused by the willful misconduct or the negligent acts, errors or omissions of Lessor, its officers, agents, employees, with respect to the Premises, or Lessor’s performance under this lease, or the Lessor’s performance, delivery or supervision of services at the Premises, or by the structural, mechanical or other failure of buildings owned or maintained by Lessor, except to the extent caused or contributed to by the negligent acts, errors, or omissions of County, its officers, agents, or employees. 19. Default. The occurrence of any of the following events is a default under this lease: a. County. i. County’s failure to pay Rent within ten business days after receipt of a written notice of failure (a “Notice”) from Lessor to County; provided, however, that County will have additional time if its failure to pay Rent is due to circumstances beyond its reasonable control, including, without limitation, failure of the County’s Board of Supervisors to adopt a budget. In no event may such additional time exceed seventy-five days from receipt of a Notice. 7 ii. County’s failure to comply with any other material term or provision of this lease if the failure is not remedied within thirty days after receipt of a Notice from Lessor to County specifying the nature of the breach in reasonably sufficient detail; provided, however, if the default cannot reasonably be remedied within the thirty day period, then a default will not be deemed to occur until the occurrence of County’s failure to comply within the period of time that may be reasonably required to remedy the default, up to an aggregate of ninety days, provided County commences curing the default within thirty days and thereafter diligently proceeds to cure the default. b. Lessor. Lessor’s failure to perform any obligation under this lease if the failure is not remedied within thirty days after receipt of a Notice from County to Lessor specifying the nature of the breach in reasonably sufficient detail; provided, however, if the breach cannot reasonably be remedied within the thirty day period, then a default will not be deemed to occur until the occurrence of Lessor’s failure to perform within the period of time that may be reasonably required to remedy the breach, up to an aggregate of ninety days, provided Lessor commences curing the breach within thirty days and thereafter diligently proceeds to cure the breach. 20. Remedies. a. Lessor. Upon the occurrence of a default by County, Lessor may, after giving County written notice of the default, and in accordance with due process of law, reenter and repossess the Premises and remove all persons and property from the Premises. b. County. Upon the occurrence of a default by Lessor, County may (i) terminate this lease by giving written notice to Lessor and quit the Premises without further cost or obligation to County or (ii) proceed to repair or correct the failure and, at County’s option, either deduct the cost thereof from Rent due to Lessor, or invoice Lessor for the cost of repair, which invoice Lessor shall pay promptly upon receipt. 21. Notices. Any notice required or permitted under this lease must be in writing and sent by overnight delivery service or registered or certified mail, postage prepaid and directed as follows: To Lessor: RPE Muir, LLC. 1343 Locust Street #24 Walnut Creek, CA 94596 With a copy to: Bay Wide Properties 251 Lafayette Circle #120 Lafayette, CA 94549 8 To County: Contra Costa County Public Works Department Attn: Principal Real Property Agent 255 Glacier Drive Martinez, CA 94553 Either party may at any time designate in writing a substitute address for the address set forth above and thereafter notices are to be directed to such substituted address. If sent in accordance with this Section, all notices will be deemed effective (i) the next business day, if sent by overnight courier, or (ii) three days after being deposited in the United States Postal system. 22. Successors and Assigns. This lease binds and inures to the benefit of the heirs, successors, and assigns of the parties hereto. 23. Holding Over. Any holding over after the Term of this lease is a tenancy from month to month and is subject to the terms of this lease. 24. Time is of the Essence. In fulfilling all terms and conditions of this lease, time is of the essence. 25. Governing Law. The laws of the State of California govern all matters arising out of this lease. 26. Severability. In the event that any provision of this lease is held to be invalid or unenforceable in any respect, the validity and enforceability of the remaining provisions of this lease will not in any way be affected or impaired. [Remainder of Page Intentionally Left Blank] 9 27. Entire Agreement; Construction; Modification. Neither party has relied on any promise or representation not contained in this lease. All previous conversations, negotiations, and understandings are of no further force or effect. This lease is not to be construed as if it had been prepared by one of the parties, but rather as if both parties prepared it. This lease may be modified only by a writing signed by both parties. The parties are executing this lease on the date set forth in the introductory paragraph. COUNTY OF CONTRA COSTA, a RPE MUIR LLC political subdivision of the State of California By: _______________________ By: _______________________ Warren Lai Ronald P. Elvidge Public Works Director President RECOMMENDED FOR APPROVAL: By: _______________________ Jessica L. Dillingham Principal Real Property Agent By: _______________________ Margaret J. Eychner Senior Real Property Agent APPROVED AS TO FORM THOMAS L. GEIGER, COUNTY COUNSEL By: _______________________ Kathleen M. Andrus Deputy County Counsel WLP503 G:\realprop\LEASE MANAGEMENT\MARTINEZ\1330 ARNOLD DR STE 249 -T00701\LEASES\1330 Arnold Dr, Ste 249 - HSD 2024 Lease\1330 Arnold Dr, Ste 249 - Lease - V2.docx Exhibit A – page 1 EXHIBIT A FORM OF COMPLETION NOTICE To: Contra Costa County From: RPE MUIR, LLC Date: Re: Completion Notice This notice is provided in compliance with Section 4 of that certain Lease dated _____________ between RPE MUIR, LLC, and Contra Costa County (the “Lease”). All terms not otherwise defined herein have the meaning ascribed to them in the Lease. Tender by Lessor Lessor hereby represents that it has completed construction of the Tenant Improvements in substantial conformity to Section 4. Lessor hereby tenders the Premises for delivery to Tenant. RPE MUIR, LLC By: _____________________ Its: _____________________ Certification by Contra Costa County The undersigned, a duly authorized representative of Contra Costa County, hereby represents that the County has caused the Tenant Improvements to be inspected and has determined them to be in substantial conformity with the Final Plans. Contra Costa County By: _____________________ Date: _________________ Its: _____________________ Exhibit B – page 1 EXHIBIT B BUILDING RULES AND REGULATIONS CONTRA COSTA COUNTY 1330 Arnold Drive, Suite 249, Martinez, California 1. No sign, placard, picture, advertisement, name or notice shall be installed or displayed on any part of the outside or inside of the Building without the prior written consent of Lessor. Lessor shall have the right to remove, at County’s expense and without notice, any sign installed or displayed in violation of this rule. All approved signs or lettering on doors and walls shall be printed, painted, affixed or inscribed at the expense of County by a person chosen by Lessor. 2. If Lessor objects in writing to any curtains, blinds, shades, screens or hanging plants or other similar objects attached to or used in connection with any window or door of the Premises, County shall immediately discontinue such use. No awning shall be permitted on any part of the Premises. County shall not place anything against or near glass partitions or doors or windows which may appear unsightly from outside the Premises. 3. County shall not obstruct any sidewalks, halls, passages, exits, entrances, elevators, or stairways of the Building. The halls, passages, exits, entrances, elevators, and stairways are not open to the general public. Lessor shall in all cases retain the right to control and prevent access thereto of all persons whose presence in the judgment of Lessor would be prejudicial to the safety, character, reputation and interest of the Building and its Tenants/County; provided that nothing herein contained shall be construed to prevent such access to persons with whom County normally deals in the ordinary course of its business, unless such persons are engaged in illegal activities. No employee or invitee of County shall go upon the roof of the Building. 4. The directory of the Building will be provided exclusively for the display of the name and location of all tenants in the building including the County. 5. All cleaning and janitorial services for the Building and the Premises shall be provided exclusively through Lessor, and except with the written consent of Lessor, no person or persons other than those approved by Lessor shall be permitted to enter the Building for the purpose of cleaning the same. County shall not cause any unnecessary labor by carelessness or indifference to the good order and cleanliness of the Premises. Lessor shall not in any way be responsible to any County for any loss of personal property on the Premises, however occurring, or for any damage to any County’s personal property by the janitor or any other employee or any other person. 6. Lessor will furnish County, at County’s cost (unless such cost is paid from any County improvement allowance, if applicable, available to County by Lessor); with six keys to each Exhibit B – page 2 door lock in the Premises. Lessor may make a reasonable charge for any additional keys. County shall not make or have made additional keys, and County shall not alter any lock or install a new additional lock or bolt on any door of its Premises. County, upon the termination of its tenancy, shall deliver to Lessor the keys of all doors which have been furnished to County, and in the event of loss of any keys so furnished, shall pay Lessor therefor. 7. If County requires telegraphic, telephonic, burglar alarm or similar services, it shall first obtain, and comply with, Lessor’s instructions in their installation. 8. Any freight elevator shall be available for use by all Tenants in the Building, subject to such reasonable scheduling as Lessor in its discretion shall deem appropriate. No equipment, materials, furniture, packages, supplies, merchandise or other property will be received in the Building or carried in the elevators except between such hours and in such elevators as may be designated by Lessor. 9. County shall not place a load upon any floor of the Premises that exceeds the load per square foot that such floor was designed to carry and which is allowed by law. Lessor shall have the right to prescribe the weight, size and position of all equipment, materials, furniture or other property brought into the Building. Heavy objects shall, if considered necessary by Lessor, stand on such platforms as determined by Lessor to be necessary to properly distribute the weight. Business machines and mechanical equipment belonging to County, which cause noise or vibration that may be transmitted to the structure of the Building or to any space therein to such a degree as to be objectionable to Lessor or to any Tenants/County in the Building, shall be placed and maintained by County, at County’s expense, on vibration eliminators or other devices sufficient to eliminate noise or vibration. The persons employed to move such equipment in or out of the Building must be acceptable to Lessor. Lessor will not be responsible for loss of, or damage to, any such equipment or other property from any cause, and all damage done to the Building by maintaining or moving such equipment or other property shall be repaired at the expense of County. COUNTY shall notify Lessor of the names of all persons or companies to be employed or retained by County to move equipment or other articles in or out of the Building or Premises on behalf of the County (collectively, “movers”) prior to commencing any moving. County shall reasonably cooperate with Lessor to cause all such movers to maintain the following insurance in connection with the moving of equipment or other articles in or out of the Building or Premises, as the case may be (and to provide Lessor with a certificate of insurance evidencing such insurance is being maintained): (i) workers compensation insurance in such amounts as may be required by law; and (ii) commercial general liability insurance (including owned and non-owned automobile liability), on an occurrence basis, with limits of no less than $1,000,000 per occurrence. Such commercial general liability policies shall (i) name Lessor and its managing agent as additional insureds; and (ii) is primary to and non-contributory with any insurance policies carried by Lessor or such managing agent. 10. County shall not use or keep in the Premises any kerosene, gasoline or other inflammable or combustible fluid or material other than those limited quantities necessary for the operation or maintenance of office equipment. County shall not use or permit to be used in the Premises any foul or noxious gas or substance or permit or allow the Premises to be occupied or used Exhibit B – page 3 in a manner offensive or objectionable to Lessor or other occupants of the Building by reason of noise, odors or vibrations, nor shall County bring into or keep in or about the Premises any birds or animals. 11. County shall not use any method of heating or air-conditioning other than that supplied by Lessor. 12. County shall not waste electricity, water or air-conditioning and agrees to cooperate fully with Lessor to assure the most effective operation of the Building’s heating and air- conditioning and to comply with any governmental energy-saving rules, laws or regulations of which County has actual notice, and shall refrain from adjusting controls. County shall keep corridor doors closed and shall close window coverings at the end of each business day. 13. Lessor reserves the right, exercisable without notice and without liability to County, to change the name and street address of the Building. 14. Lessor reserves the right to exclude from the Building between the hours of 6 P.M. and 7 A.M. the following day, or such other hours as may be established from time to time by Lessor, and on Sundays and legal holidays, any person unless that person is known to the person or employee in charge of the Building and has a pass or is properly identified. County shall be responsible for all persons for whom it requests passes and shall be responsible for all acts of such persons. Lessor shall not be liable for damages for any error with regard to the admission to or exclusion from the Building of any person. Lessor reserves the right to prevent access to the Building in case of invasion, mob, riot, public excitement or other commotion by closing the doors or by other appropriate action. 15. County shall close and lock the doors of its Premises and entirely shut off all water faucets or other water apparatus, and electricity, gas or air outlets before County and its employees leave the Premises. County shall be responsible for any damage or injuries sustained by other Tenants/County or occupants of the Building or by Lessor for noncompliance with this rule. 16. County shall not obtain for use on the Premises food, beverage, towel, car washing or detailing or other similar services or accept barbering, bootblacking or car washing or detailing service upon the Premises, except at such hours and under such regulations as may be fixed by Lessor. 17. The toilet rooms, toilets, urinals, wash bowls and other apparatus shall not be used for any purpose other than that for which they were constructed, and no foreign substance of any kind whatsoever shall be thrown therein. The expense of any breakage, stoppage or damage resulting from the violation of this rule shall be borne by the County who, or whose employees or invitees, shall have caused it. 18. County shall not sell, or permit the sale at retail, of newspapers, magazines, periodicals, theater tickets or any other goods or merchandise to the general public in or on the Premises. County shall not make any room-to-room solicitation of business or activity other than that specifically provided for in the County’s lease. Exhibit B – page 4 19. County shall not install any radio or television antenna, loudspeaker or other device on the roof or exterior walls of the Building. County shall not interfere with radio or television broadcasting or reception from or in the Building or elsewhere. 20. County shall not mark, drive nails, screw or drill into the partitions, woodwork or plaster or in any way deface the Premises or any part thereof. Lessor reserves the right to direct electricians as to where and how telephone and telegraph wires are to be introduced to the Premises. County shall maintain their telephone, telegraph, telecommunications wires and systems. County shall not cut or bore holes for wires. County shall not affix any floor covering to the floor of the Premises in any manner except as approved by Lessor. County shall repair any damage resulting from noncompliance with this rule. 21. County shall not install, maintain, or operate upon the Premises any vending machine without the written consent of Lessor. 22. Canvassing, soliciting and distribution of handbills or any other written material, and peddling in the Building are prohibited, and each Tenant/County shall cooperate to prevent same. 23. Lessor reserves the right to exclude or expel from the Building any person who, in Lessor’s judgment, is intoxicated or under the influence of liquor or drugs or who is in violation of any of the Rules and Regulations of the Building. 24. County shall store all its trash and garbage within its Premises. County shall not place in any trash box or receptacle any material that cannot be disposed of in the ordinary and customary manner of trash and garbage disposal. All garbage disposals shall be made in accordance with the directions issued from time to time by Lessor. 25. The Premises shall not be used for the storage of merchandise held for sale to the general public, or for lodging or for manufacturing of any kind, nor shall the Premises be used for any improper, immoral or objectionable purpose. No cooking shall be done or permitted by any Tenant/County on the premises except that use by County of Underwriters’ Laboratory- approved equipment for brewing coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and similar beverages shall be permitted, provided that such equipment and use is in accordance with all applicable federal, state, county and city laws, codes, ordinances, rules and regulations. 26. County shall not use in any space or in the public halls of the Building any hand trucks except those equipped with rubber tires and side guards or such other material-handling equipment as Lessor may approve. County shall not bring vehicles or bicycles of any kind into the Building. 27. Without the written consent of Lessor, County shall not use the name of the Building in connection with or in promoting or advertising the business of County except as County’s address. Exhibit B – page 5 28. County shall comply with all safety, fire protection and evacuation procedures and regulations established by Lessor or any other governmental agency. 29. County assumes any and all responsibility for protecting its Premises from theft, robbery and pilferage, which includes keeping doors locked and other means of entry to the Premise closed. 30. The requirements of County will be attended to only upon appropriate application to the office of the Building by an authorized individual: Employees of Lessor shall not perform any work or do anything outside of their regular duties unless under specific instruction by Lessor. 31. County shall not park its vehicles in any parking areas designated by the Lessor as areas for parking by visitors to the Building. County shall not leave vehicles in the Building parking areas overnight nor park any vehicles in the Building parking areas other than automobiles, motorcycles, motor driven or non-motor driven bicycles or four wheeled trucks. County shall direct its agents, guests, affiliates, visitors, and invitees coming to the Project for conferences, training, or meetings to park in the overflow parking area designated by the Lessor (“Conference Parking”). Lessor, at Lessor’s sole discretion, shall have the right to relocate said Conference Parking. Lessor shall provide County a minimum of a twenty-four (24) hour written notice of such relocation unless such relocation is due to an emergency or other situation that Lessor was not provided ample notification of. 32. Lessor may waive any one or more of these Rules and Regulations for the benefit of County or any other Tenant, but no such waiver by Lessor shall be construed as a continuous waiver of such Rules and Regulations in favor of County or any other Tenant, nor prevent Lessor from thereafter enforcing any such Rules and Regulations against the County or any or all of the other Tenants of the Building. 33. These Rules and Regulations are in addition to and shall not be construed to in any way modify or amend, in whole or in part, the terms, covenants, agreements and conditions of any lease of premises in the Building. 34. Lessor reserves the right to make such other reasonable Rules and Regulations as, in its judgment, may from time to time be needed for safety and security, for care and cleanliness of the Building and for the preservation of good order therein. County agrees to abide by all such Rules and Regulations hereinabove stated and for any additional rules and regulations that are adopted. 35. County shall be responsible for the observance of all foregoing rules by County’s employees, agents, clients, customers, invitees and guests. Exhibit C – page 1 EXHIBIT C JANITORIAL SPECIFICATIONS CONTRA COSTA COUNTY 1330 Arnold Drive, Suite 249, Martinez, California Lessor shall cause janitorial services provided to Premises to meet or exceed the following standards: DAILY SERVICES 1. Clean all restrooms thoroughly each day, including, but not limited to, fixtures, mirrors, hardware, wash basins, partitions, doors, and tile surfaces. 2. Disinfect all toilets, urinals, and wash basins and mop floors nightly. 3. Inspect supplies in restroom dispensers daily and replace as necessary. 4. Empty and wipe out ash trays with a damp cloth. 5. Empty all trash containers throughout the premises. 6. Clean and disinfect drinking fountains. 7. Vacuum or spot-vacuum carpets as necessary around entry and heavy traffic areas. Spot- clean carpets periodically as needed. 8. Remove spots and finger marks from glass on entry doors and all interior partitions. 9. Dust counter tops, desktops, cabinets, tables, low wall partitions, window sills, and telephones. 10. Sweep uncarpeted floors nightly and spot-mop as needed. WEEKLY SERVICES 1. Vacuum all carpets thoroughly throughout the premises. 2. Dust building completely. 3. Mop all vinyl floor areas weekly and strip, wax, and buff when necessary. 4. Replace trash container liners as necessary. Exhibit C – page 2 TWICE YEARLY 1. Wash windows, window screens, and glass on both sides two times per year in May and November. 2. Clean all ventilation grills. ONCE YEARLY 1. Wash and clean all light fixtures inside and outside. SUPPLIES AND EQUIPMENT 1. Lessor shall furnish all paper supplies, such as seat covers, towels, toilet tissue, sanitary napkins, soap for sink dispensers, and trash container liners. 2. Lessor shall furnish all equipment, tools, and cleaning supplies such as carpet cleaner, disinfectant, wax, and other supplies, or chemicals required. MISCELLANEOUS 1. Lessor shall cause the janitor room to be kept neat, clean, and free of debris. 2. Lessor shall cause the janitor to lock all doors and windows, set night lights and alarm system before leaving Building at the end of the day. 3. Lessor shall keep all sidewalks broom clean and landscaping free of debris within a 12- foot distance from the perimeter of the building. 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2765 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/16/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director, or designee, to execute a contract amendment with Consor North America, Inc., effective June 4, 2024, to increase the payment limit by $155,712 to a new payment limit of $762,000 and to extend the term through June 30, 2025, for construction management services for the Danville Boulevard-Orchard Court Improvements Project, Alamo area. (66% Highway Safety Improvement Program Grant Funds, 33% Measure J Funds, and 1% Local Road Funds) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Warren Lai, Public Works Director/Chief Engineer Report Title:Amendment to Consulting Services Agreement with Consor North America, Inc., Alamo area. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director,or designee,to execute a Consulting Services Agreement (contract)amendment with Consor North America,Inc.,effective June 4,2024,to increase the payment limit by $155,712.00 to a new payment limit of $762,000.00 for construction management services for the Danville Boulevard-Orchard Court Improvements Project,and to extend the term from June 30,2024,to June 30,2025,Alamo area.(County Project No.:0662-6R4128),(Federal Project No.:HSIPL-5928(140)) (District II) FISCAL IMPACT: This project,including this Consulting Services Agreement,will be funded by 66%Highway Safety Improvement Program Grant Funds, 33% Measure J Funds, and 1% Local Road Funds. BACKGROUND: The project will construct complete street improvements at the Danville Boulevard/Orchard Court intersection in Alamo.The project will include a roundabout curb extension,curb ramps,and entry medians at the roundabout to reduce vehicle speeds and improve pedestrian crossings.Sidewalks will be reconstructed through the corridor along with curb extensions and curb ramps in order to meet ADA requirements and accommodate existing mature trees in the sidewalk.The project includes a slurry seal,restriping of the roadway,and lane reconfiguration,as well as storm drain modifications,landscaping,stormwater treatment areas,signage,utility adjustments, and relocation of existing roadside features. Quincy Engineering,Inc.(Quincy)was selected to provide construction management services for the Project CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2765,Version:1 Quincy Engineering,Inc.(Quincy)was selected to provide construction management services for the Project after completing a request for proposal solicitation and technical proposal process.Construction management services for the Project includes full time inspection,quality assurance materials testing,quality assurance surveying,extensive coordination with project stakeholders,and in-field decision making to ensure the Project is built per plans and specifications and meets County and Caltrans Standards.Construction management services also include recording daily activity and equipment on-site and maintaining required project documentation.Public Works has successfully negotiated with Quincy to provide construction management services. On July 12,2022,the Board of Supervisors approved an initial contract with Quincy in the amount of $606,288.00 for construction management services for the Public Works Department.The term of this agreement expires June 30, 2024. In May of 2019,Quincy was acquired by,and became a wholly owned subsidiary of Consor North America, Inc.(Consor).On or about October 3,2022,Quincy was merged into Consor,upon which Quincy shall cease and Consor will assume the obligations under Quincy’s active contracts. This Amendment No.2 will increase the payment limit and extend the contract term which is necessary for continuation of construction management services. Government Code Section 31000 and 4525 authorizes the County to contract for services including the type of construction management that Consor North America, Inc. provides. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Without Board of Supervisors’approval,this Consulting Services Agreement will not be in effect.A delay in construction of the Project will occur,ultimately delaying the completion of the Project.Project delay may also result in substantial additional project costs and jeopardize the funding. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2766 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/20/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director, or designee, to execute Contract Change Order No. 15 with Granite Rock Company in an amount not to exceed $675,000, for the Marsh Creek Road Bridges Replacement Project, Brentwood area. (75% Highway Bridge Program Funds, 24% Local Road Funds, 1% East County Area of Benefit Funds) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Warren Lai, Public Works Director/Chief Engineer Report Title:APPROVE Contract Change Order No. 15 for the Marsh Creek Road Bridges Replacement Project, Brentwood area. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director, or designee, to execute Contract Change Order No. 15 with Granite Rock Company effective September 10, 2024, in an amount not to exceed $675,000.00, Brentwood area. (Project No. 0662-6R4083) (District III) FISCAL IMPACT: The Project is being funded by 75% Highway Bridge Program Funds, 24% Local Road Funds, 1% East County Area of Benefit Funds. BACKGROUND: Contract Change Order No. 15 is necessary to pay the contractor, Granite Rock Company, for additional striping. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: The lack of approval would prevent successful completion of this contract and prevent payment for the additional work performed by the contractor. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2766,Version:1 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2767 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/21/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director, or designee, to execute contract amendment with ECS Imaging, Inc., effective September 10, 2024, to increase the payment limit by $216,622 to a new payment limit of $511,817 and extend the termination date to September 29, 2026 for additional software licenses, support and project management associated with the implementation of Laserfiche, an electronic records content management system. (100% Various Road, Flood Control, and Special District Funds) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Warren Lai, Public Works Director/Chief Engineer Report Title:Contract Amendment No. 2 with ECS Imaging, Inc., Countywide ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director,or designee,to execute contract amendment with ECS Imaging,Inc.,effective September 10,2024,to increase the payment limit by $216,622 to a new payment limit of $511,817 and extend the termination date from September 29,2024 to September 29,2026 for additional software licenses,support and project management associated with the implementation of Laserfiche, an electronic records content management system. FISCAL IMPACT: Laserfiche licensing and project management is funded by various Road,Flood Control,and Special Districts funds. BACKGROUND: ECS Imaging,Inc.built the Laserfiche system that the Public Works Department uses for electronic records management.ECS Imaging,Inc.also provides on-call project management services which includes working with Public Works divisions to set up work flows in Laserfiche to more efficiently store electronic records. On September 21,2021,this Board approved the current contract with ECS Imaging,Inc.,for additional Laserfiche licensing, on-call project management support, and annual licensing renewal and support. On August 1,2023,this Board approved contract amendment no.1 with ECs Imaging,Inc.to increase the payment limit by $62,195 for additional software licenses and project management support associated with Laserfiche implementation. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2767,Version:1 The Public Works Department requires amendment no.2 with ECS Imaging to add $216,622 to the payment limit for additional project management hours,additional licenses,and extend the term an additional two years for licensing renewal and support. Government Code Section 31000 authorizes the County to contract for services including the services that ECS Imaging, Inc. provides. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Without approval of the contract, Public Works will not be able to complete Laserfiche implementation and provide software and support for the existing system. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2768 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/21/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director, or designee, to execute a contract amendment with Battalion One Fire Protection, Inc., effective June 30, 2024, to increase the hourly rates and extend the term through June 30, 2026, with no change to the payment limit, for on-call fire sprinkler certification and repair services at various County sites and facilities, Countywide. (No fiscal impact) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Warren Lai, Public Works Director/Chief Engineer Report Title:Amendment No.1 with Battalion One Fire Protection,Inc.,a California Corporation, Countywide. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director,or designee,to execute a contract amendment with Battalion One Fire Protection,Inc.,effective June 30,2024,to increase the hourly rates and extend the term through June 30,2026,with no change to the payment limit,for on-call fire sprinkler certification and repair services at various County sites and facilities, Countywide. FISCAL IMPACT: Facilities Maintenance Budget. (No fiscal impact) BACKGROUND: The Public Works Department,Facilities Services is responsible for maintaining,repairing,and certifying fire sprinkler systems at various County facilities to ensure County systems are in compliance.Battalion One Fire Protection,Inc.,provides a full scope of fire sprinkler repair and certification services,including but not limited to inspections,fire sprinkler systems,fire alarm detection and repairs,24-hour emergency service,UL Certifications, fire extinguishers, and system monitoring. Government Code Section 31000 authorizes the County to contract for special services for building security CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2768,Version:1 Government Code Section 31000 authorizes the County to contract for special services for building security matters.The Request for Proposal was originally bid on Bidsync #2012-456.The Public Works Department conducted a thorough evaluation and Battalion One Fire Protection,Inc.,was one of three vendors awarded for this contract. The Public Works Department originally awarded a three (3)year contract with a total contract limit of $2,500,000.The contract term was July 1,2021,through June 30,2024.Facilities Services is requesting Amendment No.1 with Battalion One Fire Protection,Inc.to be approved,extending the term from June 30, 2024, to June 30, 2026, for on-call fire sprinkler certification and repair services. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Without the approval of this Contract Amendment No.1,fire sprinkler certification and repair services with Battalion One Fire Protection, Inc. will discontinue, and future projects will not be completed. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2769 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/21/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director, or designee, to execute a contract amendment with Diablo Boiler & Steam Inc., effective May 3, 2024, to increase the payment limit by $500,000 to a new payment limit of $1,250,000, increase the hourly rates, and extend the term through January 31, 2027, for on-call boiler maintenance and repair services at various County sites and facilities, Countywide. (100% General Fund) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Warren Lai, Public Works Director/Chief Engineer Report Title:Amendment No. 2 with Diablo Boiler & Steam Inc., a California Corporation, Countywide. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director,or designee,to execute a contract amendment with Diablo Boiler &Steam Inc.,effective May 3,2024,to increase the payment limit by $500,000 to a new payment limit of $1,250,000,increase the hourly rates,and extend the term through January 31,2027,for on- call boiler maintenance and repair services at various County sites and facilities, Countywide. FISCAL IMPACT: Facilities Maintenance Budget. (100% General Fund) BACKGROUND: The Public Works Department,Facilities Services is responsible for maintenance and repairs to all hot water, boiler furnace,and heat pump systems,which provide hot water and heating to County buildings.Scheduling this maintenance is done by Facilities Services, but the actual maintenance is performed by outside vendors. Government Code Section 25358 authorizes the County to contract for maintenance and upkeep of County facilities.Originally bid on BidSync #2107-497,Diablo Boiler &Steam Inc.,was one of two contractors awarded for this contract.The Public Works Department awarded a three (3)year contract with the term February 1,2022 through January 31,2025.The total contract amount awarded was $750,000.Amendment No. 1 was approved,effective May 1,2023,and increased hourly rates according to the SF-Oakland-Hayward Consumer Price Index. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2769,Version:1 Facilities Services is requesting Amendment No.2 with Diablo Boiler &Steam Inc.to be approved,adding additional funds to the payment limit,increasing the hourly rates,and extending the term from January 31, 2025, to January 31, 2027, for on-call boiler maintenance and repair services. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Without the approval of this Contract Amendment No.2,boiler maintenance and repair services with Diablo Boiler & Steam Inc. will discontinue, and future projects will not be completed. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2770 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/13/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute, on behalf of the County, a Participating Addendum with OFS Brands, Inc., in an amount not to exceed $800,000, for the distribution of various furniture, design and installation services for use by all County Departments, during the period of September 10, 2024 through April 30, 2025, under the terms of the Master Contract awarded by the Region 4 Education Service Center. (100% User Departments) Attachments:, , Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Warren Lai, Public Works Director/Chief Engineer Report Title:Participating Addendum with OFS Brands, Inc., through the Distributor, Be. Workplace Design ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent,or designee,to execute,on behalf of the County,a Participating Addendum with OFS Brands,Inc.,in an amount not to exceed $800,000,for the distribution of various furniture,design and installation services for use by all County Departments,during the period of September 10,2024 through April 30,2025,under the terms of the Master Contract awarded by the Region 4 Education Service Center, and distributed through Be. Workplace Design. (100% User Departments) FISCAL IMPACT: Product and service costs paid by County Departments. (100% User Departments) BACKGROUND: Contra Costa Purchasing Services is requesting approval of a Participating Addendum for various furniture purchases,design and installation services through one of OFS Brands,Inc.,Distributors:Be.Workplace Design.Orders will be unique to each County Department.Products are guaranteed through the mast contract awarded by the Region 4 Education Service Center,OMNIA Cooperative Program.Approval of the addendum between Contra Costa County and OFS Brands,Inc.,allows the County to obtain guaranteed pricing available through the OMNIA Partners contract.The purchase will support all County Departments with a variety of Systems and Freestanding Furniture,Seating/Chairs,Filing Systems,Technology Support Systems,Library, Cafeteria and Science Lab Furniture,Audio/Video Furniture,Art Instructional Furniture,Auditorium/Theater Fixed Seating,Office and Technical Education Furniture and Modular Walls,which offer discounts of 47%to 65%off published price lists.This will allow the County the option to choose furniture from more than one source,promote competition among the providers,and is ultimately designed to offer County Departments a variety of product choices and providers. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2770,Version:1 CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Without approval of an alternate furniture source,the County would have limited options,no competition among the providers, and ultimately pay more by not taking advantage of cooperative purchasing discounts. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ Region 4 Education Service Center (ESC) Contract # R191813 for Furniture, Installation and Related Services with OFS Brands, Inc. Effective: May 1, 2020 The following documents comprise the executed contract between the Region 4 Education Service Center and the OFS Brands, Inc. effective May 1, 2020: I. Vendor Contract and Signature Form II. Supplier’s Response to the RFP, incorporated by reference CONTRACT 1 APPENDIX A CONTRACT This Contract (“Contract”) is made as of __________, 2020 by and between (“Contractor”) and Region 4 Education Service Center (“Region 4 ESC”) for the purchase of Furniture, Installation, and Related Services (“the products and services”). RECITALS WHEREAS, Region 4 ESC issued Request for Proposals Number RFP #19-18 for Furniture, Installation, and Related Services (“RFP”), to which Contractor provided a response (“Proposal”); and WHEREAS, Region 4 ESC selected Contractor’s Proposal and wishes to engage Contractor in providing the services/materials described in the RFP and Proposal; WHEREAS, both parties agree and understand the following pages will constitute the Contract between the Contractor and Region 4 ESC, having its principal place of business at 7145 West Tidwell Road, Houston, TX 77092. WHEREAS, Contractor included, in writing, any required exceptions or deviations from these terms, conditions, and specifications; and it is further understood that, if agreed to by Region 4 ESC, said exceptions or deviations are incorporated into the Contract. WHEREAS, this Contract consists of the provisions set forth below, including provisions of all attachments referenced herein. In the event of a conflict between the provisions set forth below and those contained in any attachment, the provisions set forth below shall control. WHEREAS, the Contract will provide that any state and local governmental entities, public and private primary, secondary and higher education entities, non-profit entities, and agencies for the public benefit (“Public Agencies”) may purchase products and services at prices indicated in the Contract upon the Public Agency’s registration with OMNIA Partners. 1)Term of agreement. The term of the Contract is for a period of three (3) years unless terminated, canceled or extended as otherwise provided herein. Region 4 ESC shall have the right to renew the Contract for two (2) additional one-year periods or portions thereof. Region 4 ESC shall review the Contract prior to the renewal date and notify the Contractor of Region 4 ESC’s intent renew the Contract. Contractor may elect not to renew by providing three hundred sixty-five days’ (365) notice to Region 4 ESC. Notwithstanding the expiration of the initial term or any subsequent term or all renewal options, Region 4 ESC and Contractor may mutually agree to extend the term of this Agreement. Contractor acknowledges and understands Region 4 ESC is under no obligation whatsoever to extend the term of this Agreement. 2) Scope: Contractor shall perform all duties, responsibilities and obligations, set forth in this agreement, and described in the RFP, incorporated herein by reference as though fully set forth herein. CONTRACT 2 3) Form of Contract. The form of Contract shall be the RFP, the Offeror’s proposal and Best and Final Offer(s). 4) Order of Precedence. In the event of a conflict in the provisions of the Contract as accepted by Region 4 ESC, the following order of precedence shall prevail: i. This Contract ii. Offeror’s Best and Final Offer iii. Offeror’s proposal iv. RFP and any addenda 5) Commencement of Work. The Contractor is cautioned not to commence any billable work or provide any material or service under this Contract until Contractor receives a purchase order for such work or is otherwise directed to do so in writing by Region 4 ESC. 6) Entire Agreement (Parol evidence). The Contract, as specified above, represents the final written expression of agreement. All agreements are contained herein and no other agreements or representations that materially alter it are acceptable. 7) Assignment of Contract. No assignment of Contract may be made without the prior written approval of Region 4 ESC. Contractor is required to notify Region 4 ESC when any material change in operations is made (i.e. bankruptcy, change of ownership, merger, etc.). 8) Novation. If Contractor sells or transfers all assets or the entire portion of the assets used to perform this Contract, a successor in interest must guarantee to perform all obligations under this Contract. Region 4 ESC reserves the right to accept or reject any new party. A change of name agreement will not change the contractual obligations of Contractor. 9) Contract Alterations. No alterations to the terms of this Contract shall be valid or binding unless authorized and signed by Region 4 ESC. 10) Adding Authorized Distributors/Dealers. Contractor is prohibited from authorizing additional distributors or dealers, other than those identified at the time of submitting their proposal, to sell under the Contract without notification and prior written approval from Region 4 ESC. Contractor must notify Region 4 ESC each time it wishes to add an authorized distributor or dealer. Purchase orders and payment can only be made to the Contractor unless otherwise approved by Region 4 ESC. Pricing provided to members by added distributors or dealers must also be less than or equal to the Contractor’s pricing. 11) TERMINATION OF CONTRACT a) Cancellation for Non-Performance or Contractor Deficiency. Region 4 ESC may terminate the Contract if purchase volume is determined to be low volume in any 12-month period. Region 4 ESC reserves the right to cancel the whole or any part of this Contract due to failure by Contractor to carry out any obligation, term or condition of the contract. Region 4 ESC may issue a written deficiency notice to Contractor for acting or failing to act in any of the following: i. Providing material that does not meet the specifications of the Contract; ii. Providing work or material was not awarded under the Contract; iii. Failing to adequately perform the services set forth in the scope of work and specifications; CONTRACT 3 iv. Failing to complete required work or furnish required materials within a reasonable amount of time; v. Failing to make progress in performance of the Contract or giving Region 4 ESC reason to believe Contractor will not or cannot perform the requirements of the Contract; or vi. Performing work or providing services under the Contract prior to receiving an authorized purchase order. Upon receipt of a written deficiency notice, Contractor shall have ten (10) days to provide a satisfactory response to Region 4 ESC. Failure to adequately address all issues of concern may result in Contract cancellation. Upon cancellation under this paragraph, all goods, materials, work, documents, data and reports prepared by Contractor under the Contract shall immediately become the property of Region 4 ESC. b) Termination for Cause. If, for any reason, Contractor fails to fulfill its obligation in a timely manner, or Contractor violates any of the covenants, agreements, or stipulations of this Contract Region 4 ESC reserves the right to terminate the Contract immediately and pursue all other applicable remedies afforded by law. Such termination shall be effective by delivery of notice, to the Contractor, specifying the effective date of termination. In such event, all documents, data, studies, surveys, drawings, maps, models and reports prepared by Contractor will become the property of the Region 4 ESC. If such event does occur, Contractor will be entitled to receive just and equitable compensation for the satisfactory work completed on such documents. c) Delivery/Service Failures. Failure to deliver goods or services within the time specified, or within a reasonable time period as interpreted by the purchasing agent or failure to make replacements or corrections of rejected articles/services when so requested shall constitute grounds for the Contract to be terminated. In the event Region 4 ESC must purchase in an open market, Contractor agrees to reimburse Region 4 ESC, within a reasonable time period, for all expenses incurred. i) Additional Delivery/Installation Charges: Contractor may enter into additional negotiations with a purchasing agency for additional delivery or installation charges based on onerous conditions. Additional delivery and/or installation charges may only be charged if mutually agreed upon by the purchasing agency and Contractor and can only be charged on a per individual project basis. d) Force Majeure. If by reason of Force Majeure, either party hereto shall be rendered unable wholly or in part to carry out its obligations under this Agreement then such party shall give notice and full particulars of Force Majeure in writing to the other party within a reasonable time after occurrence of the event or cause relied upon, and the obligation of the party giving such notice, so far as it is affected by such Force Majeure, shall be suspended during the continuance of the inability then claimed, except as hereinafter provided, but for no longer period, and such party shall endeavor to remove or overcome such inability with all reasonable dispatch. The term Force Majeure as employed herein, shall mean acts of God, strikes, lockouts, or other industrial disturbances, act of public enemy, orders of any kind of government of the United States or the State of Texas or any civil or military authority; insurrections; riots; epidemics; landslides; lighting; earthquake; fires; hurricanes; storms; floods; washouts; droughts; arrests; restraint of government and people; civil disturbances; explosions, breakage or accidents to machinery, pipelines or canals, or other causes not reasonably within the control of the party claiming such inability. It is understood and agreed that the settlement of strikes and lockouts shall be entirely within the discretion of the party having the difficulty, and that the above requirement that any Force Majeure shall be remedied with all reasonable dispatch shall not require the settlement of strikes and lockouts by acceding to the demands of the opposing party or parties when such settlement is unfavorable in the judgment of the party having the difficulty. CONTRACT 4 e) Standard Cancellation. Region 4 ESC may cancel this Contract in whole or in part by providing written notice. The cancellation will take effect 30 business days after the other party receives the notice of cancellation. After the 30th business day all work will cease following completion of final purchase order. 12) Licenses. Contractor shall maintain in current status all federal, state and local licenses, bonds and permits required for the operation of the business conducted by Contractor. Contractor shall remain fully informed of and in compliance with all ordinances and regulations pertaining to the lawful provision of services under the Contract. Region 4 ESC reserves the right to stop work and/or cancel the Contract if Contractor’s license(s) expire, lapse, are suspended or terminated. 13) Survival Clause. All applicable software license agreements, warranties or service agreements that are entered into between Contractor and Region 4 ESC under the terms and conditions of the Contract shall survive the expiration or termination of the Contract. All Purchase Orders issued and accepted by Contractor shall survive expiration or termination of the Contract. 14) Delivery. Conforming product shall be shipped within 7 days of receipt of Purchase Order. If delivery is not or cannot be made within this time period, the Contractor must receive authorization for the delayed delivery. The order may be canceled if the estimated shipping time is not acceptable. All deliveries shall be freight prepaid, F.O.B. Destination and shall be included in all pricing offered unless otherwise clearly stated in writing. 15) Inspection & Acceptance. If defective or incorrect material is delivered, Region 4 ESC may make the determination to return the material to the Contractor at no cost to Region 4 ESC. The Contractor agrees to pay all shipping costs for the return shipment. Contractor shall be responsible for arranging the return of the defective or incorrect material. 16) Payments. Payment shall be made after satisfactory performance, in accordance with all provisions thereof, and upon receipt of a properly completed invoice. 17) Price Adjustments. Should it become necessary or proper during the term of this Contract to make any change in design or any alterations that will increase price, Region 4 ESC must be notified immediately. Price increases must be approved by Region 4 ESC and no payment for additional materials or services, beyond the amount stipulated in the Contract shall be paid without prior approval. All price increases must be supported by manufacturer documentation, or a formal cost justification letter. Contractor must honor previous prices for thirty (30) days after approval and written notification from Region 4 ESC. It is the Contractor’s responsibility to keep all pricing up to date and on file with Region 4 ESC. All price changes must be provided to Region 4 ESC, using the same format as was provided and accepted in the Contractor’s proposal. Price reductions may be offered at any time during Contract. Special, time-limited reductions are permissible under the following conditions: 1) reduction is available to all users equally; 2) reduction is for a specific period, normally not less than thirty (30) days; and 3) original price is not exceeded after the time-limit. Contractor shall offer Region 4 ESC any published price reduction during the Contract term. 18) Audit Rights. Contractor shall, at its sole expense, maintain appropriate due diligence of all purchases made by Region 4 ESC and any entity that utilizes this Contract. Region 4 ESC reserves the right to audit the accounting for a period of three (3) years from the time such CONTRACT 5 purchases are made. This audit right shall survive termination of this Agreement for a period of one (1) year from the effective date of termination. Region 4 ESC shall have the authority to conduct random audits of Contractor’s pricing at Region 4 ESC's sole cost and expense. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event that Region 4 ESC is made aware of any pricing being offered that is materially inconsistent with the pricing under this agreement, Region 4 ESC shall have the ability to conduct an extensive audit of Contractor’s pricing at Contractor’s sole cost and expense. Region 4 ESC may conduct the audit internally or may engage a third- party auditing firm. In the event of an audit, the requested materials shall be provided in the format and at the location designated by Region 4 ESC. 19) Discontinued Products. If a product or model is discontinued by the manufacturer, Contractor may substitute a new product or model if the replacement product meets or exceeds the specifications and performance of the discontinued model and if the discount is the same or greater than the discontinued model. 20) New Products/Services. New products and/or services that meet the scope of work may be added to the Contract. Pricing shall be equivalent to the percentage discount for other products. Contractor may replace or add product lines if the line is replacing or supplementing products, is equal or superior to the original products, is discounted similarly or greater than the original discount, and if the products meet the requirements of the Contract. No products and/or services may be added to avoid competitive procurement requirements. Region 4 ESC may require additions to be submitted with documentation from Members demonstrating an interest in, or a potential requirement for, the new product or service. Region 4 ESC may reject any additions without cause. 21) Options. Optional equipment for products under Contract may be added to the Contract at the time they become available under the following conditions: 1) the option is priced at a discount similar to other options; 2) the option is an enhancement to the unit that improves performance or reliability. 22) Warranty Conditions. All supplies, equipment and services shall include manufacturer's minimum standard warranty and one (1) year labor warranty unless otherwise agreed to in writing. 23) Site Cleanup. Contractor shall clean up and remove all debris and rubbish resulting from their work as required or directed. Upon completion of the work, the premises shall be left in good repair and an orderly, neat, clean, safe and unobstructed condition. 24) Site Preparation. Contractor shall not begin a project for which the site has not been prepared, unless Contractor does the preparation work at no cost, or until Region 4 ESC includes the cost of site preparation in a purchase order. Site preparation includes, but is not limited to: moving furniture, installing wiring for networks or power, and similar pre-installation requirements. 25) Registered Sex Offender Restrictions. For work to be performed at schools, Contractor agrees no employee or employee of a subcontractor who has been adjudicated to be a registered sex offender will perform work at any time when students are or are reasonably expected to be present. Contractor agrees a violation of this condition shall be considered a material breach and may result in the cancellation of the purchase order at Region 4 ESC’s discretion. Contractor must identify any additional costs associated with compliance of this CONTRACT 6 term. If no costs are specified, compliance with this term will be provided at no additional charge. 26) Safety measures. Contractor shall take all reasonable precautions for the safety of employees on the worksite and shall erect and properly maintain all necessary safeguards for protection of workers and the public. Contractor shall post warning signs against all hazards created by its operation and work in progress. Proper precautions shall be taken pursuant to state law and standard practices to protect workers, general public and existing structures from injury or damage. 27) Smoking. Persons working under the Contract shall adhere to local smoking policies. Smoking will only be permitted in posted areas or off premises. 28) Stored materials. Upon prior written agreement between the Contractor and Region 4 ESC, payment may be made for materials not incorporated in the work but delivered and suitably stored at the site or some other location, for installation at a later date. An inventory of the stored materials must be provided to Region 4 ESC prior to payment. Such materials must be stored and protected in a secure location and be insured for their full value by the Contractor against loss and damage. Contractor agrees to provide proof of coverage and additionally insured upon request. Additionally, if stored offsite, the materials must also be clearly identified as property of Region 4 ESC and be separated from other materials. Region 4 ESC must be allowed reasonable opportunity to inspect and take inventory of stored materials, on or offsite, as necessary. Until final acceptance by Region 4 ESC, it shall be the Contractor's responsibility to protect all materials and equipment. Contractor warrants and guarantees that title for all work, materials and equipment shall pass to Region 4 ESC upon final acceptance. 29) Funding Out Clause. A Contract for the acquisition, including lease, of real or personal property is a commitment of Region 4 ESC’s current revenue only. Region 4 ESC retains the right to terminate the Contract at the expiration of each budget period during the term of the Contract and is conditioned on a best effort attempt by Region 4 ESC to obtain appropriate funds for payment of the contract. 30) Indemnity. Contractor shall protect, indemnify, and hold harmless both Region 4 ESC and its administrators, employees and agents against all claims, damages, losses and expenses arising out of or resulting from the actions of the Contractor, Contractor employees or subcontractors in the preparation of the solicitation and the later execution of the Contract. Any litigation involving either Region 4 ESC, its administrators and employees and agents will be in Harris County, Texas. 31) Marketing. Contractor agrees to allow Region 4 ESC to use their name and logo within website, marketing materials and advertisement. Any use of Region 4 ESC name and logo or any form of publicity, inclusive of press releases, regarding this Contract by Contractor must have prior approval from Region 4 ESC. 32) Certificates of Insurance. Certificates of insurance shall be delivered to the Region 4 ESC prior to commencement of work. The Contractor shall give Region 4 ESC a minimum of ten (10) days’ notice prior to any modifications or cancellation of policies. The Contractor shall require all subcontractors performing any work to maintain coverage as specified. 33) Legal Obligations. It is Contractor’s responsibility to be aware of and comply with all local, state, and federal laws governing the sale of products/services and shall comply with all laws CONTRACT 7 while fulfilling the Contract. Applicable laws and regulation must be followed even if not specifically identified herein. 34) Tariff Surcharges: Contractor has the option to charge a surcharge, as an additional line item, if approved by the purchasing agency. All surcharges must be based on a percentage of total order and must be approved by Region 4 prior to use. Appendix B TERMS & CONDITIONS ACCEPTANCE FORM Signature on the Offer and Contract Signature form certifies complete acceptance of the terms and conditions in this solicitation and draft Contract except as noted below with proposed substitute language (additional pages may be attached, if necessary). The provisions of the RFP cannot be modified without the express written approval of Region 4 ESC. If a proposal is returned with modifications to the draft Contract provisions that are not expressly approved in writing by Region 4 ESC, the Contract provisions contained in the RFP shall prevail. Check one of the following responses:  Offeror takes no exceptions to the terms and conditions of the RFP and draft Contract. (Note: If none are listed below, it is understood that no exceptions/deviations are taken.)  Offeror takes the following exceptions to the RFP and draft Contract. All exceptions must be clearly explained, reference the corresponding term to which Offeror is taking exception and clearly state any proposed modified language, proposed additional terms to the RFP and draft Contract must be included: (Note: Unacceptable exceptions may remove Offeror’s proposal from consideration for award. Region 4 ESC shall be the sole judge on the acceptance of exceptions and modifications and the decision shall be final. If an offer is made with modifications to the contract provisions that are not expressly approved in writing, the contract provisions contained in the RFP shall prevail.) Section/Page Term, Condition, or Specification Exception/Proposed Modification Accepted (For Region 4 ESC’s use) 128 of 369 noted by OMNIA Partners Acceptable by Region4 OFS table of contents in response to Region 4 Education Service Center Furniture and Related Services Solicitation Number 1-18 Page Item Description 1-2 Table of Contents 3-4 Cover Letter 5-126 RFP Copy OFS Response within RFP including Addendum to specific areas will be featured in BLUE font. 127 Tab 1 Appendix A (Signed Offer and Contract Signature Fom) 128 1A Appendix B (Terms and Conditions acceptance Form) Tab 2 Products and Pricing including: Electronically only 1.Current Price Lists 129-133 2.Products/Services/Pricing 134-137 3.Proposed Pricing 138-165 4.OFS Product Scope 166-169 5.Warranty, Terms, and Conditions 170 6.Returns and Restocking Policy Tab 3 Performace Capability 171-204 3A 1.Appendix D Exhibit A OFS Response 205-213 3B 2.Performance Capability narrative Various Omnia documents (Appendix D) Including 214-219 3.Example admin agreement not yet signed (Exhibit B) 220-224 4.Examples of MICPA, PPAC and Reporting Template 225-230 5.Experian report 231-235 6.OFS Master rep listing 236 7.OFS Master rep listing by regional hierarchy 237 8.OFS sales safety program response 238-256 9.Omnia Partners documents (Appendix D) 257-267 10.HUB Zone certificates 268-282 11.Existing 468 Omnia Dealers 283-325 12.OFS Brands Inc Authrozied Dealers 326-340 Tab 4 Qualifications, Experience and References 341 Tab 5 Value Add Tab 6 Additional Required Documents (Appendix C) 342-343 a.DOC #1 Acknowledgement and Acceptance of Region 4 ESC's Open Records Policy 344 b.DOC #2 Antitrust Certification Statements (Tex. Government Code §2155.005) 345 c.DOC #3 Implementation of House Bill 1295 Certificate of Interested Parties (Form 1295) 346 d.DOC #4 Texas Government Code 2270 Verification Form 347-363 e.DOC #5 Special Conditions 364 f.DOC #6 Questionnaire 365-366 g.Diversity Program 367-368 h.DOC #7 For applicable construction/ reconstruction/renovation and related services, a bid guarantee is required not less than five percent (5%) of the total bid. Surety shall provide a copy of the Power of Attorney authorizing the Executing Agent the authority to execute the bid bond documents and bind the Surety to the bid bond conditions. The bid bond shall have a corporate Surety that is licensed to conduct business in Texas and authorized to underwrite bonds in the amount of the bid bond. 369 i.Signed receipt of Addendum 1 acknowledgment 7145 West Tidwell Road ~ Houston, Texas 77092 (713)-462-7708 www.esc4.net NOTICE TO OFFEROR Solicitation Number 19-18 Request for Proposal (“RFP”) by Region 4 Education Service Center (“ESC”) for Furniture, Installation, and Related Services SUBMITTAL DEADLINE: Wednesday, December 11, 2019, 2:00 PM CENTRAL TIME Questions regarding this RFP must be submitted in writing to Crystal Wallace, Business Operations Specialist, at questions@esc4.net no later than December 2, 2019. All questions and answers will be posted to https://www.esc4.net/services/purchasing/region-4-omnia-solicitations. Offerors are responsible for viewing the website to review all questions and answers prior to submitting proposals. Oral communications concerning this RFP shall not be binding and shall in no way excuse an Offeror of the obligations set forth in this proposal. Proposals must be sealed, prominently marked with the RFP solicitation number, RFP title, RFP opening time/date and name of Offeror. Submissions must be received by the Region 4 ESC office at: 7145 West Tidwell Road, Houston, TX 77092 no later than 2:00 p.m. central time. Proposals received prior to the submittal deadline will be time-stamped upon receipt and kept secure and unopened. At the submittal deadline, Region 4 ESC will collect all proposals received before the deadline in the room designated for the proposal opening. Proposals will be opened and recorded publicly. Any proposal received later than the specified time, whether delivered in person, courier or mailed, will not be considered. Late proposals will be returned to sender unopened. NON-MANDATORY PRE-PROPOSAL CONFERENCE Offerors are strongly encouraged, but not required to participate in a pre-proposal conference with the Business Operations Specialist, which will be held on Thursday, November 21, 2019 at 10:00 am in the Region 4 ESC offices located at 7145 West Tidwell Road, Houston Texas 77092. To attend the conference, potential Offeror must notify Crystal Wallace, Business Operations Specialist, at cwallace@esc4.net, by Friday, November 15, 2019. Offeror’s who are unable to attend in person but would like to call in must also send an email to request call in instructions. The purpose of this conference is to clarify the contents of this RFP in order to prevent any misunderstanding of Region 4 ESC’s position. Any doubt as to the requirements of this RFP or any apparent omission or discrepancy should be presented to Region 4 ESC at this conference. Region 4 ESC will then determine the appropriate action necessary, if any, and may issue a written addendum to the RFP. Oral statements or instructions will not constitute an addendum to this RFP. Publication Date: Thursday, November 7, 2019 5 of 369 I. SCOPE OF WORK Region 4 Education Service Center (“Region 4 ESC”) requests proposals from qualified suppliers with the intent to enter into a Contract for Furniture, Installation, and Related Services. Region 4 ESC is seeking a provider that has the depth, breadth and quality of resources necessary to complete all phases of the Contract. Awarded Offeror(s) shall deliver products and services under the terms of this agreement. While this solicitation specifically covers Furniture, Installation, and Related Services, each awarded Offeror may offer their complete product and service offering, or balance of line. Region 4 ESC reserves the right to accept or reject any or all balance of line items offered. Region 4 ESC is an education service center established by the Texas Legislature in 1967 to assist school districts and charter schools in improving efficiencies. Region 4 ESC directly serves a seven-county area comprised of 48 public school districts and 39 open-enrollment charter schools, representing more than 1.2 million students, 99,000 educators and 1,500 campuses. Through cooperative contracts Region 4 ESC extends the opportunity to operate more efficiently and economically to agencies nationwide through OMNIA Partners (see below). The Contract is based on the need to provide the economic benefits of volume purchasing and reduction in administrative costs through cooperative purchasing to schools and other members. Although the awarded Offeror(s) may restrict sales to certain public units (for example, state agencies or local government units), any proposal that prohibits sales from being made to public school districts may not be considered. Sales without restriction are preferred. These types of contracts are commonly referred to as being “piggybackable.” NATIONAL CONTRACT Region 4 Education Service Center, as the Principal Procurement Agency, defined in Appendix D, has partnered with OMNIA Partners to make the resultant contract (also known as the “Master Agreement” in materials distributed by OMNIA Partners) from this solicitation available to other public agencies nationally, including state and local governmental entities, public and private primary, secondary and higher education entities, non-profit entities, and agencies for the public benefit (“Public Agencies”), through OMNIA Partners’ cooperative purchasing program. Region 4 ESC is acting as the contracting agency for any other Public Agency that elects to utilize the resulting Master Agreement. Use of the Master Agreement by any Public Agency is preceded by their registration with OMNIA Partners (a “Participating Public Agency”). Appendix D contains additional information about OMNIA Partners and the cooperative purchasing agreement. OMNIA Partners is the largest and most experienced purchasing organization for public and private sector procurement. Through the economies of scale created by OMNIA Partners public sector subsidiaries, National IPA and U.S. Communities, our participants now have access to more competitively solicited and publicly awarded cooperative agreements. The lead agency contracting process continues to be the foundation on which we are founded. OMNIA Partners is proud to offer more value and resources to state and local government, higher education, K-12 education and non-profits. OMNIA Partners provides shared services and supply chain optimization to government, education and the private sector. As a channel partner with Vizient (formally, Novation), OMNIA Partners leverages over $100 billion in annual supply spend to command the best prices for products and services. With corporate, pricing and sales commitments from the 6 of 369 Offeror, OMNIA Partners provides marketing and administrative support for the Offeror that directly promotes the Offeror’s products and services to Participating Public Agencies though multiple channels, each designed to promote specific products and services to Public Agencies on a national basis. Public Agencies benefit from pricing based on aggregate spend and the convenience of a contract that has already been advertised and publicly competed. The Offeror benefits from a contract that allows Participating Public Agencies to directly purchase goods and services without the Offeror’s need to respond to additional competitive solicitations. As such, the Offeror must be able to accommodate a nationwide demand for services and to fulfill obligations as a nationwide Offeror and respond to the OMNIA Partners documents (Appendix D). While no minimum volume is guaranteed to the Contractor, the estimated annual volume of Furniture, Installation, and Related Services purchased under the Master Agreement through OMNIA Partners is approximately $275 million. This projection is based on the current annual volumes among Region 4 ESC, other Participating Public Agencies anticipated to utilize the resulting Master Agreement to be made available to them through OMNIA Partners, and volume growth into other Public Agencies through a coordinated marketing approach between the Contractor and OMNIA Partners. Customer Support Contractor shall provide timely and accurate technical advice and sales support to Region 4 ESC staff and Participating Agencies. Contractor shall respond to such requests within one (1) working day after receipt of the request. SCOPE OF GOODS AND SERVICES It is the intention of Region 4 ESC to establish a contract with Offeror(s) for a complete and comprehensive line of Furniture and Installation Services. Offerors are encouraged to propose their complete catalog of products and services including, but not limited to, the following categories:  Systems Furniture: A complete and comprehensive catalog of all systems furniture, lines, and accessories available from the Company;  Freestanding Furniture: A complete and comprehensive catalog of all case goods, furniture, (including folding and mobile) desks, tables, and accessories not limited to pre-school items available from the Company;  Seating/Chairs: A complete and comprehensive catalog of office and classroom chairs, tandem seating and other general seating not limited to pre-school items available from the Company;  Soft Seating: A complete and comprehensive catalog selection of soft seating for areas such as commons, libraries, waiting areas and open learning spaces. Products include, but are not limited to, lounge seating, modular linear seating, tables, and accessories.  Filing Systems, Storage and Equipment: A complete and comprehensive catalog of filing systems including vertical and lateral files, freestanding file cabinets, bookcases, and equipment and accessories available from the Company; 7 of 369  Technology Support Furniture: A complete and comprehensive catalog selection of technology support furniture to support technology-based learning environments.  Library Furniture: A complete and comprehensive catalog selection of library furniture including shelving.  Science Laboratory Furniture: A complete and comprehensive catalog selection of science laboratory furniture.  Cafeteria Furniture: A complete and comprehensive catalog selection of cafeteria furniture.  Early Childhood Furniture: A complete and comprehensive catalog selection of early childhood furniture.  Audio/Visual Furniture: A complete and comprehensive catalog selection of audio/visual furniture.  Art Instructional Furniture: A complete and comprehensive catalog selection of art instructional furniture.  Educational Office Furniture: A complete and comprehensive catalog selection of educational office furniture.  Career/Technical Education Furniture: A complete and comprehensive catalog selection of career/technical education furniture.  Auditorium/Theater Fixed Seating: A complete and comprehensive catalog selection of auditorium/theater fixed seating and related furniture.  Modular Walls: A complete and comprehensive catalog selection of modular wall systems.  Related Products, Support Services and Solutions: Related office interior products and design, “Quick Ship”, design and layout, fabric and color design services, installation, systems furniture reconfiguration, assessment tools, professional development, furniture leasing, asset management services, storage, buyback programs, furniture refurb and any other related products and services or solutions offered by the Company. Although this section reflects the needs and requirements of Region 4 ESC, OMNIA Partners Participating Agencies may have different requirements. The awarded vendor will have the ability to offer their comprehensive program, as it pertains to Furniture, Installation, or Related Services, nationally. Furniture, Installation, or Related Services may include products and services associated with items which OMNIA Partners Participating Agencies may elect to use. OMNIA Partners Participants will sign a supplemental or usage agreement with the awarded vendor substantially based on the terms and conditions of the Region 4 ESC contract. Participants may elect to negotiate certain terms to conform to their purchasing and contracting requirements. 8 of 369 II. CALENDAR OF EVENTS (ALL DATES ARE TENTATIVE AND SUBJECT TO CHANGE): Event Issue RFP Pre-proposal Conference Deadline for questions via email Issue Addenda (if required) Proposal Due Date Approval from Region 4 ESC Contract Effective Date Date November 7, 2019 November 21, 2019 December 2, 2019 December 4, 2019 December 11, 2019 February 25, 2020 March 1, 2020 9 of 369 III. INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS 1. Key Definitions Contract: The legal agreement executed between Region 4 ESC and the awarded Offeror. A draft of the Contract is provided as Appendix A. Contractor: Any provider or seller of goods or services who, as a result of the competitive solicitation process, is awarded a Contract by Region 4 ESC. Days: calendar days Offeror: A supplier submitting a proposal in response to a solicitation. 2. Inquiries and Discrepancies: Questions regarding this solicitation must be submitted in writing to Crystal Wallace, Business Operations Specialist, at questions@esc4.net no later than Monday, December 2, 2019. All questions and answers will be posted to https://www.esc4.net/services/purchasing/region-4-omnia-solicitations. Offerors are responsible for viewing the website to review all questions and answers prior to submitting proposals. Oral communications concerning this RFP shall not be binding and shall in no way excuse an Offeror of the obligations set forth in this proposal. 3. Restricted and Prohibited Communications with Region 4 ESC: During the period between the date Region 4 ESC issues this RFP and the selection of the Contractor by Region 4 ESC, if any, Offerors shall restrict all contact with Region 4 ESC and direct all questions regarding this RFP, including questions regarding terms and conditions, only to the individual identified above in section “Inquiries and Discrepancies” in the specified manner. Do not contact members of the Board of Directors, other employees of Region 4 ESC or any of Region 4 ESC’s agents or administrators. Contact with any of these prohibited individuals after issuance of this RFP and before selection is made, may result in disqualification of the Offeror. The communications prohibition shall terminate when the Contract is recommended by the administration, considered by the Board of Directors at a noticed public meeting, and the Contract has been awarded. In the event the Board of Directors refers the recommendation back to staff for reconsideration, the communications prohibition shall continue. Additionally, during the time period between the award of the Contract by the Board of Directors and the execution of the Contract, Offerors shall not engage in any prohibited communications as described in this section. Prohibited communications includes direct contact, discussion, or promotion of any Offeror’s response with any member of Region 4 ESC’s Board of Directors or employees except for communications with Region 4 ESC’s designated representative as set forth in this RFP and only in the course of inquiries, briefings, interviews, or presentations. This prohibition is intended to create a level playing field for all potential Offerors, assure that decisions are made in public, and to protect the integrity of the RFP process. Except as provided in the above stated exceptions, the following communications regarding this RFP are prohibited: • Communications between a potential Offeror, Offeror, their lobbyist or consultant and any member of Region 4 ESC’s Board of Directors; • Communications between any Region 4 ESC Director and any member of a selection or evaluation committee; and • Communications between any Region 4 ESC Director and administrator or employee. The communications prohibition shall not apply to the following: 10 of 369 • Communications with Region 4 ESC’s purchasing staff specifically named and authorized to conduct and receive such communications under this RFP or upon the request of Region 4 ESC, with Region 4 ESC’s legal counsel; and • Presentations made to the Board of Directors during any duly noticed public meeting. Nothing contained herein shall prohibit any person or entity from publicly addressing Region 4 ESC’s Board of Directors during any duly noticed public meeting, in accordance with applicable Board policies, on a matter other than this RFP or in connection with a presentation requested by Region 4 ESC’s representatives. 4. Current products: Proposals shall be for new materials and equipment in current production and marketed to the general public, education and government agencies at the time the proposal is submitted. 5. Proposal Format: Proposals must contain two (2) bound and signed original copies of the solicitation, and two (2) electronic copies on flash drives shall be provided. Offeror must also submit two (2) electronic proposals free of propriety information to be posted, if awarded a Contract. Only sealed responses will be accepted. Faxed or electronically transmitted responses will not be accepted. Sealed responses may be submitted on any or all items, unless stated otherwise. Responses must be provided in a three-ring binder or report cover using 8.5 x 11 paper clearly identified with the name of the Offeror’s company and the solicitation name and number on both the outside front cover and vertical spine. Tabs should be used to separate the proposal into sections. The following items identified must be included behind the tabs listed below. Each section should contain both the section of the RFP referenced and the Offeror’s response to that section. Offerors failing to organize in the manner listed may be considered non-responsive and may not be evaluated. 6. Binder Tabs: Tab 1 – Draft Contract and Offer and Contract Signature Form (Appendix A) a. Terms and Conditions Acceptance Form (Appendix B) Tab 2 – Products/Pricing Tab 3 – Performance Capability a. OMNIA Partners documents (Appendix D) Tab 4 – Qualification and Experience a. References Tab 5 – Value Add Tab 6 – Additional Required Documents (Appendix C) 11 of 369 a. Acknowledgment and Acceptance of Region 4 ESC’s Open Records Policy (Appendix C, Doc #1) b. Antitrust Certification Statement (Tex. Government Code § 2155.005) (Appendix C, Doc #2) c. Implementation of House Bill 1295 Certificate of Interested Parties (Form 1295) (Appendix C, Doc #3) d. Texas Government Code 2270 Verification Form (Appendix C, Doc #4) e. Any additional agreements Offeror will require Participating Agencies to sign 7. Additional Agreements: If an Offeror requires additional agreements, a copy of the proposed agreement must be included with the proposal. 8. Open Records Policy: Proposals submitted in response to this RFP become a matter of public record subject to release after Contracts are executed. If an Offeror believes its response, or parts of its response, may be exempt from disclosure, the Offeror must specify page-by-page and line-by-line the parts of the response, which it believes, are exempt. In addition, the Offeror must specify which exception(s) are applicable and provide detailed reasons to substantiate the exception(s). Offeror must provide this information on the “Acknowledgement and Acceptance of Region 4 ESC’s Open Records Policy” (Appendix C, Doc #1). Any unmarked information will be considered public information and released, if requested under the Public Information Act. Price is not confidential and will not be withheld. The determination of whether information is confidential and not subject to disclosure is the duty of the Office of Attorney General (OAG). Region 4 ESC must provide the OAG sufficient information to render an opinion and therefore, vague and general claims to confidentiality by the Offeror are not acceptable. Region 4 ESC must comply with the opinions of the OAG. Region 4 ESC assumes no responsibility for asserting legal arguments on behalf of any Offeror or Contractor. Offeror is advised to consult with their legal counsel concerning disclosure issues resulting from this procurement process and to take precautions to safeguard trade secrets and other proprietary information. After completion of award, these documents will be available for public inspection. 9. Disclosures: By signing the Offer and Contract Signature Form, Offeror affirms: a) Offeror has not given, offered to give, nor intends to give at any time hereafter any economic opportunity, future employment, gift, loan, gratuity, special discount, trip, favor or service to a public servant in connection with this proposal and any subsequent Contract. Offerors must include a complete description of any and all relationships that might be considered a conflict of interest in doing business with Region 4 ESC. b) To the best of Offeror’s knowledge, the proposal has been arrived at independently, and is submitted without collusion with anyone to obtain information or gain any favoritism that would in any way limit competition or give an unfair advantage over other Offerors or potential Offerors in the award of a Contract resulting from this RFP. c) Offeror is not currently delinquent in the payment of any franchise taxes. 12 of 369 d) The individual signing the submittal is an authorized agent for the Offeror and has the authority to bind the Offeror to the Contract. 10. Waiver: By submitting a proposal, Offeror expressly agrees to waive any claim it has or may have against Region 4 ESC, its directors, officers, its trustees, or agents arising out of or in connection with (1) the administration, evaluation, recommendation of any proposal; (2) any requirements under the solicitation, proposal package, or related documents; (3) the rejection of any proposal or any part of any proposal; and/or (4) the award of a Contract, if any. Region 4 ESC shall not be responsible or liable for any costs incurred by Offerors or the successful Offeror in connection with responding to the RFP, preparing for oral presentations, preparing and submitting a proposal, entering or negotiating the terms of a Contract, or any other expenses incurred by an Offeror. The Offeror is wholly responsible for any such costs and expenses and shall not be reimbursed in any manner by Region 4 ESC. 11. Conditions of Submitting Proposal: Submission of a proposal confers no right on an Offeror to an award or Contract. Region 4 ESC, in its sole discretion and for any reason or no reason, reserves the rights to reject any or all proposals, accept only a part of any proposal, accept the proposal deemed most advantageous to Region 4 ESC, and waive any technicalities. The issuance of this RFP does not obligate Region 4 ESC to make an award or negotiate or execute a Contract. Prior to submission due date and time, Region 4 ESC reserves the right to amend the terms and provisions of the RFP, extend the deadline for submission of proposals, or withdraw the RFP entirely for any reason solely at Region 4 ESC’s discretion. A proposal may be rejected if it fails to meet any requirement of this RFP. 12. Mailing of Proposals: All proposals submitted in response to the solicitation must be clearly identified as listed below with the solicitation number, title, name and address of the company responding. All packages must be clearly identified as listed below, sealed and delivered to the Region 4 ESC office no later than the submittal deadline assigned for this solicitation. From_____________________________________________________ Company__________________________________________________ Address___________________________________________________ City, State, Zip _____________________________________________ Solicitation Name and Number ___________Due Date and Time______ 13. Amendment of Proposal: A proposal may be amended prior to the time of opening by submitting a sealed letter to the location indicated on the front page of this solicitation. 14. Withdrawal of Proposals: Withdrawal of proposals prior to the opening date will be permitted by a written letter or electronic mail from the Offeror. Telephonic or oral withdrawals shall not be considered. After the opening date consideration may be given in cases where Offeror advises that it made a clerical error that is substantially lower than it intended. In such case, Offeror must provide written notice of their desire to withdraw, along with supporting documents, within 3 business days of receiving the acceptance letter or of being requested by Region 4 ESC for clarification of the proposal, whichever is later. Any Contract entered into prior to Region 4 ESC receiving notice must be honored. No Offeror should assume their 13 of 369 withdrawal request has been accepted unless, and until, they receive written acknowledgment and acceptance of their proposal withdrawal. 15. Offer and Acceptance Period: In order to allow for an adequate evaluation, Region 4 ESC requires a proposal in response to this RFP to be valid and irrevocable for one-hundred twenty (120) days after the proposal due date and time. 16. Non-Responsive Proposals: All proposals will be reviewed for responsiveness to the material requirements of the solicitation. A proposal that is not materially responsive shall not be eligible for further consideration for award of the Contract, and the Offeror shall receive notice of the non-award of its proposal. 17. Discussions: Region 4 ESC reserves the right to conduct discussion with Offerors for the purpose of eliminating minor irregularities, informalities, or apparent clerical mistakes in the proposal in order to clarify a proposal and assure full understanding of, and responsiveness to, the RFP requirements. 18. Negotiations: In the event Region 4 ESC decides to conduct negotiations, exclusive or concurrent negotiations may be conducted with Offerors reasonably susceptible for award. During the course of negotiations, no Offeror’s proposal, including pricing, shall be revealed to any other Offeror or to any other person who is not involved with the evaluation process. Exclusive or concurrent negotiations shall not constitute a Contract award, nor shall it confer any property rights to the successful Offeror. In the event Region 4 ESC deems negotiations are not progressing, Region 4 ESC may formally terminate these negotiations and may enter into subsequent exclusive or concurrent negotiations with the next most qualified Offeror(s). 19. Best and Final Offer: Region 4 ESC, in its sole discretion, may request Offerors reasonably susceptible for award to submit a Best and Final Offer. Offerors must submit their Best and Final Offers in writing. If an Offeror does not respond to the request for a Best and Final Offer, that Offeror’s most recent prior submission will be considered its Best and Final Offer. 20. Specifications: When a solicitation contains a specification that states no substitutions, no deviation from this requirement will be permitted. Offeror must comply with the true intent of the specifications and drawings and not take advantage of any unintentional error or omission. In cases where no type and kind of product is specified, specifications have been developed to indicate minimal standards as to the usage, materials, and contents based on the needs of the members. References to manufacturer’s specifications (“Design Guides”), when used by Region 4 ESC, are to be considered informative to give the Offeror information as to the general style, type and kind requested. Responses proposing goods, materials or equipment regularly produced by a reputable manufacturer shall be evaluated by Region 4 ESC which will, in its sole discretion, determine whether such proposed goods, materials or equipment are substantially equivalent to the Design Guides, considering quality, workmanship, economy of operation, and suitability for the purpose intended. Offerors should include all documentation required to evaluate whether or not their proposed goods, materials or equipment are substantially equivalent to the Design Guides. 21. Quality of Materials or Services: Offeror shall state the brand name and number of the materials being provided. If none is indicated, it is understood that the Offeror is proposing the exact brand name and number specified or mentioned in the solicitation. However, unless specifically stated otherwise, comparable substitutions will be permitted in cases where the material is equal to that specified, considering quality, workmanship, economy of operation and suitability for the purpose intended. 14 of 369 22. Samples: Upon request, samples shall be furnished, free of cost, within seven (7) days after receiving notice of such request. By submitting the proposal Offeror certifies that all materials conform to all applicable requirements of this solicitation and of those required by law. Offeror agrees to bear the costs for laboratory testing, if results show the sample does not comply with solicitation requirements. Submissions may no longer be considered for failing to submit samples as requested. 23. Formation of Contract: A response to this solicitation is an offer to contract with Region 4 ESC based upon the terms, conditions, scope of work, and specifications contained in this request. A solicitation does not become a Contract until it is awarded by Region 4 ESC. A Contract is formed when Region 4 ESC’s board signs the Offer and Contract Signature Form. The signed Offer and Contract Signature Form provided with the RFP response eliminates the need for a formal signing process. 24. Multiple Awards: Region 4 ESC reserves the right to award Contract(s) to multiple Offerors. The decision to award multiple Contracts, award only one Contract, or to make no awards rests solely with Region 4 ESC. 25. Non-Exclusive: Any Contract resulting from this solicitation shall be awarded with the understanding and agreement it is for the sole convenience and benefit of Region 4 ESC. Region 4 ESC reserves the right to obtain like goods and services from other sources. 26. Protest Procedure: Any protest of an award or proposed award must be filed in writing within ten (10) days from the date of the official award notification and must be received by 5:00 pm Central Time. No protest shall lie for a claim that the selected Offeror is not a responsible Offeror. Protests shall be filed with Robert Zingelmann, Chief Financial Officer, Finance and Operations Services, and sent to the Region 4 ESC office at: 7145 West Tidwell Road, Houston, TX 77092. Protests shall include the following: a) Name, address and telephone number of protester; b) Original signature of protester or its representative; c) Identification of the solicitation by RFP number; d) Detailed statement of legal and factual grounds including copies of relevant documents; and e) the form of relief requested. Any protest review and action shall be considered final with no further formalities being considered. 15 of 369 IV.EVALUATION PROCESS AND CRITERIA 1.A committee will review and evaluate all responses and make a recommendation for award of Contract(s). The recommendation for Contract awards will be based on the predetermined criteria factors outlined in this section, where each factor is assigned a point value based on its importance. In evaluating the responses, the following predetermined criteria is considered: a)Products/Pricing (40 Points) b)Performance Capability (30 Points) c)Qualification and Experience (20 Points) d)Value Add (10 Points) 2.Offeror’s proposal should, at a minimum, include the following for Region 4 ESC’s evaluation: a) Products/Services/Pricing i.Offerors shall provide pricing based on a discount from a manufacturer’s price list or catalog, or fixed price, or a combination of both with indefinite quantities. Prices listed will be used to establish the extent of a manufacturer’s product lines, services, warranties, etc. that are available from Offeror and the pricing per item. Multiple percentage discounts are acceptable if, where different percentage discounts apply, those different percentages are specified. Additional pricing and/or discounts may be included. Products and services proposed are to be priced separately with all ineligible items identified. Offerors may elect to limit their proposals to any category or categories. ii.Include an electronic copy of the catalog from which discount, or fixed price, is calculated. Electronic price lists must contain the following: (if applicable) •Manufacturer part # •Offeror’s Part # (if different from manufacturer part #) •Description •Manufacturers Suggested List Price and Net Price •Net price to Region 4 ESC (including freight) Media submitted for price list must include the Offerors’ company name, name of the solicitation, and date on a Flash Drive (i.e. Pin or Jump Drives). iii.Is pricing available for all products and services? i.Please provide pricing for services based on a range, from minimum price per hour to maximum price per hour, with a not to exceed on the maximum price per hour charge. iv.Describe any shipping charges. i.Describe delivery charges along with definitions for: 1.Dock Delivery 2.Inside Delivery 3.Deliver and Install v.Provide pricing for warranties on all products and services. vi.Describe any return and restocking fees. 16 of 369 vii.Describe any additional discounts or rebates available. Additional discounts or rebates may be offered for large quantity orders, single ship to location, growth, annual spend, guaranteed quantity, etc. viii.Describe how customers verify they are receiving Contract pricing. ix.Describe payment methods offered. x.Propose the frequency of updates to the Offeror’s pricing structure. Describe any proposed indices to guide price adjustments. If offering a catalog contract with discounts by category, while changes in individual pricing may change, the category discounts should not change over the term of the Contract. xi.Describe how future product introductions will be priced and align with Contract pricing proposed. xii.Provide any additional information relevant to this section. Not to Exceed Pricing. Region 4 ESC requests pricing be submitted as not to exceed pricing. Unlike fixed pricing, the Contractor can adjust submitted pricing lower if needed but, cannot exceed original pricing submitted. Contractor must allow for lower pricing to be available for similar product and service purchases. Cost plus pricing as a primary pricing structure is not acceptable. b)Performance Capability i.Include a detailed response to Appendix D, Exhibit A, OMNIA Partners Response for National Cooperative Contract. Responses should highlight experience, demonstrate a strong national presence, describe how Offeror will educate its national sales force about the Contract, describe how products and services will be distributed nationwide, include a plan for marketing the products and services nationwide, and describe how volume will be tracked and reported to OMNIA Partners. ii.The successful Offeror will be required to sign Appendix D, Exhibit B, OMNIA Partners Administration Agreement prior to Contract award. Offerors should have any reviews required to sign the document prior to submitting a response. Offeror’s response should include any proposed exceptions to OMNIA Partners Administration Agreement on Appendix B, Terms and Conditions Acceptance Form. iii.Include completed Appendix D, Exhibits F. Federal Funds Certifications and G. New Jersey Business Compliance. See Tab 3 document 2 Performance Capability for detailed answers to the following: iv.Describe how Offeror responds to emergency orders. Via a 12 day Quickship Program v.What is Offeror’s average Fill Rate? 98-99% vi.What is Offeror’s average on time delivery rate? Describe Offeror’s history of meeting the shipping and delivery timelines. 99% vii.Describe Offeror’s return and restocking policy. All returns require prior authorization and may incur a 25% restocking fee plus freight costs. Tab 3 document 2 offers additional details. viii.Describe Offeror’s ability to meet service and warranty needs. See Tab 3 item 2 ix.Describe Offeror’s customer service/problem resolution process. Include hours of operation, number of services, etc.17 of 369 x.Describe Offeror’s invoicing process. Include payment terms and acceptable methods of payments. Offerors shall describe any associated fees pertaining to credit cards/p-cards. xi.Describe Offeror’s contract implementation/customer transition plan. xii.Describe the financial condition of Offeror. xiii.Provide a website link in order to review website ease of use, availability, and capabilities related to ordering, returns and reporting. Describe the website’s capabilities and functionality. xiv.Describe the Offeror’s safety record. xv.Provide any additional information relevant to this section. c)Qualification and Experience i.Provide a brief history of the Offeror, including year it was established and corporate office location. ii.Describe Offeror’s reputation in the marketplace. iii.Describe Offeror’s reputation of products and services in the marketplace. iv.Describe the experience and qualification of key employees. v.Describe Offeror’s experience working with the government sector. vi.Describe past litigation, bankruptcy, reorganization, state investigations of entity or current officers and directors. vii.Provide a minimum of 10 customer references relating to the products and services within this RFP. Include entity name, contact name and title, contact phone and email, city, state, years serviced, description of services and annual volume. viii.Provide any additional information relevant to this section. ci)Value Add i.Provide any additional information related to products and services Offeror proposes to enhance and add value to the Contract. cii)Competitive Range: It may be necessary to establish a competitive range. Factors from the predetermined criteria will be used to make this determination. Responses not in the competitive range will not receive further award consideration. Region 4 ESC may determine establishing a competitive range is not necessary. ciii)Past Performance: An Offeror’s past performance and actions are relevant in determining whether or not the Offeror is likely to provide quality goods and services; the administrative aspects of performance; the Offeror’s history of reasonable and cooperative behavior and commitment to customer satisfaction; and generally, the Offeror’s businesslike concern for the interests of the customer may be taken into consideration when evaluating proposals, although not specifically mentioned in the RFP. civ)Additional Investigations: Region 4 ESC reserves the right to make such additional investigations as it deems necessary to establish the capability of any Offeror. 18 of 369 APPENDIX A DRAFT CONTRACT This Contract (“Contract”) is made as of __________, 2020 by and between (“Contractor”) and Region 4 Education Service Center (“Region 4 ESC”) for the purchase of ___________________________________________(“the products and services”). RECITALS WHEREAS, Region 4 ESC issued Request for Proposals Number R______ for _______ (“RFP”), to which Contractor provided a response (“Proposal”); and WHEREAS, Region 4 ESC selected Contractor’s Proposal and wishes to engage Contractor in providing the services/materials described in the RFP and Proposal; WHEREAS, both parties agree and understand the following pages will constitute the Contract between the Contractor and Region 4 ESC, having its principal place of business at 7145 West Tidwell Road, Houston, TX 77092. WHEREAS, Contractor included, in writing, any required exceptions or deviations from these terms, conditions, and specifications; and it is further understood that, if agreed to by Region 4 ESC, said exceptions or deviations are incorporated into the Contract. WHEREAS, this Contract consists of the provisions set forth below, including provisions of all attachments referenced herein. In the event of a conflict between the provisions set forth below and those contained in any attachment, the provisions set forth below shall control. WHEREAS, the Contract will provide that any state and local governmental entities, public and private primary, secondary and higher education entities, non-profit entities, and agencies for the public benefit (“Public Agencies”) may purchase products and services at prices indicated in the Contract upon the Public Agency’s registration with OMNIA Partners. 1)Term of agreement. The term of the Contract is for a period of three (3) years unless terminated, canceled or extended as otherwise provided herein. Region 4 ESC shall have the right to renew the Contract for two (2) additional one-year periods or portions thereof. Region 4 ESC shall review the Contract prior to the renewal date and notify the Contractor of Region 4 ESC’s intent renew the Contract. Contractor may elect not to renew by providing three hundred sixty-five days’ (365) notice to Region 4 ESC. Notwithstanding the expiration of the initial term or any subsequent term or all renewal options, Region 4 ESC and Contractor may mutually agree to extend the term of this Agreement. Contractor acknowledges and understands Region 4 ESC is under no obligation whatsoever to extend the term of this Agreement. 2) Scope: Contractor shall perform all duties, responsibilities and obligations, set forth in this agreement, and described in the RFP, incorporated herein by reference as though fully set forth herein. 19 of 369 3) Form of Contract. The form of Contract shall be the RFP, the Offeror’s proposal and Best and Final Offer(s). 4) Order of Precedence. In the event of a conflict in the provisions of the Contract as accepted by Region 4 ESC, the following order of precedence shall prevail: i. This Contract ii. Offeror’s Best and Final Offer iii. Offeror’s proposal iv. RFP and any addenda 5) Commencement of Work. The Contractor is cautioned not to commence any billable work or provide any material or service under this Contract until Contractor receives a purchase order for such work or is otherwise directed to do so in writing by Region 4 ESC. 6) Entire Agreement (Parol evidence). The Contract, as specified above, represents the final written expression of agreement. All agreements are contained herein and no other agreements or representations that materially alter it are acceptable. 7) Assignment of Contract. No assignment of Contract may be made without the prior written approval of Region 4 ESC. Contractor is required to notify Region 4 ESC when any material change in operations is made (i.e. bankruptcy, change of ownership, merger, etc.). 8) Novation. If Contractor sells or transfers all assets or the entire portion of the assets used to perform this Contract, a successor in interest must guarantee to perform all obligations under this Contract. Region 4 ESC reserves the right to accept or reject any new party. A change of name agreement will not change the contractual obligations of Contractor. 9) Contract Alterations. No alterations to the terms of this Contract shall be valid or binding unless authorized and signed by Region 4 ESC. 10) Adding Authorized Distributors/Dealers. Contractor is prohibited from authorizing additional distributors or dealers, other than those identified at the time of submitting their proposal, to sell under the Contract without notification and prior written approval from Region 4 ESC. Contractor must notify Region 4 ESC each time it wishes to add an authorized distributor or dealer. Purchase orders and payment can only be made to the Contractor unless otherwise approved by Region 4 ESC. Pricing provided to members by added distributors or dealers must also be less than or equal to the Contractor’s pricing. 11) TERMINATION OF CONTRACT a) Cancellation for Non-Performance or Contractor Deficiency. Region 4 ESC may terminate the Contract if purchase volume is determined to be low volume in any 12-month period. Region 4 ESC reserves the right to cancel the whole or any part of this Contract due to failure by Contractor to carry out any obligation, term or condition of the contract. Region 4 ESC may issue a written deficiency notice to Contractor for acting or failing to act in any of the following: i. Providing material that does not meet the specifications of the Contract; ii. Providing work or material was not awarded under the Contract; iii. Failing to adequately perform the services set forth in the scope of work and specifications; 20 of 369 iv. Failing to complete required work or furnish required materials within a reasonable amount of time; v. Failing to make progress in performance of the Contract or giving Region 4 ESC reason to believe Contractor will not or cannot perform the requirements of the Contract; or vi. Performing work or providing services under the Contract prior to receiving an authorized purchase order. Upon receipt of a written deficiency notice, Contractor shall have ten (10) days to provide a satisfactory response to Region 4 ESC. Failure to adequately address all issues of concern may result in Contract cancellation. Upon cancellation under this paragraph, all goods, materials, work, documents, data and reports prepared by Contractor under the Contract shall immediately become the property of Region 4 ESC. b) Termination for Cause. If, for any reason, Contractor fails to fulfill its obligation in a timely manner, or Contractor violates any of the covenants, agreements, or stipulations of this Contract Region 4 ESC reserves the right to terminate the Contract immediately and pursue all other applicable remedies afforded by law. Such termination shall be effective by delivery of notice, to the Contractor, specifying the effective date of termination. In such event, all documents, data, studies, surveys, drawings, maps, models and reports prepared by Contractor will become the property of the Region 4 ESC. If such event does occur, Contractor will be entitled to receive just and equitable compensation for the satisfactory work completed on such documents. c) Delivery/Service Failures. Failure to deliver goods or services within the time specified, or within a reasonable time period as interpreted by the purchasing agent or failure to make replacements or corrections of rejected articles/services when so requested shall constitute grounds for the Contract to be terminated. In the event Region 4 ESC must purchase in an open market, Contractor agrees to reimburse Region 4 ESC, within a reasonable time period, for all expenses incurred. i) Additional Delivery/Installation Charges: Contractor may enter into additional negotiations with a purchasing agency for additional delivery or installation charges based on onerous conditions. Additional delivery and/or installation charges may only be charged if mutually agreed upon by the purchasing agency and Contractor and can only be charged on a per individual project basis. d) Force Majeure. If by reason of Force Majeure, either party hereto shall be rendered unable wholly or in part to carry out its obligations under this Agreement then such party shall give notice and full particulars of Force Majeure in writing to the other party within a reasonable time after occurrence of the event or cause relied upon, and the obligation of the party giving such notice, so far as it is affected by such Force Majeure, shall be suspended during the continuance of the inability then claimed, except as hereinafter provided, but for no longer period, and such party shall endeavor to remove or overcome such inability with all reasonable dispatch. The term Force Majeure as employed herein, shall mean acts of God, strikes, lockouts, or other industrial disturbances, act of public enemy, orders of any kind of government of the United States or the State of Texas or any civil or military authority; insurrections; riots; epidemics; landslides; lighting; earthquake; fires; hurricanes; storms; floods; washouts; droughts; arrests; restraint of government and people; civil disturbances; explosions, breakage or accidents to machinery, pipelines or canals, or other causes not reasonably within the control of the party claiming such inability. It is understood and agreed that the settlement of strikes and lockouts shall be entirely within the discretion of the party having the difficulty, and that the above requirement that any Force Majeure shall be remedied with all reasonable dispatch shall not require the settlement of strikes and lockouts by acceding to the demands of the opposing party or parties when such settlement is unfavorable in the judgment of the party having the difficulty. 21 of 369 e)Standard Cancellation. Region 4 ESC may cancel this Contract in whole or in part by providing written notice. The cancellation will take effect 30 business days after the other party receives the notice of cancellation. After the 30th business day all work will cease following completion of final purchase order. 12)Licenses. Contractor shall maintain in current status all federal, state and local licenses, bonds and permits required for the operation of the business conducted by Contractor. Contractor shall remain fully informed of and in compliance with all ordinances and regulations pertaining to the lawful provision of services under the Contract. Region 4 ESC reserves the right to stop work and/or cancel the Contract if Contractor’s license(s) expire, lapse, are suspended or terminated. 13)Survival Clause. All applicable software license agreements, warranties or service agreements that are entered into between Contractor and Region 4 ESC under the terms and conditions of the Contract shall survive the expiration or termination of the Contract. All Purchase Orders issued and accepted by Contractor shall survive expiration or termination of the Contract. 14)Delivery. Conforming product shall be shipped within 7 days of receipt of Purchase Order. If delivery is not or cannot be made within this time period, the Contractor must receive authorization for the delayed delivery. The order may be canceled if the estimated shipping time is not acceptable. All deliveries shall be freight prepaid, F.O.B. Destination and shall be included in all pricing offered unless otherwise clearly stated in writing. 15)Inspection & Acceptance. If defective or incorrect material is delivered, Region 4 ESC may make the determination to return the material to the Contractor at no cost to Region 4 ESC. The Contractor agrees to pay all shipping costs for the return shipment. Contractor shall be responsible for arranging the return of the defective or incorrect material. 16)Payments. Payment shall be made after satisfactory performance, in accordance with all provisions thereof, and upon receipt of a properly completed invoice. 17)Price Adjustments. Should it become necessary or proper during the term of this Contract to make any change in design or any alterations that will increase price, Region 4 ESC must be notified immediately. Price increases must be approved by Region 4 ESC and no payment for additional materials or services, beyond the amount stipulated in the Contract shall be paid without prior approval. All price increases must be supported by manufacturer documentation, or a formal cost justification letter. Contractor must honor previous prices for thirty (30) days after approval and written notification from Region 4 ESC. It is the Contractor’s responsibility to keep all pricing up to date and on file with Region 4 ESC. All price changes must be provided to Region 4 ESC, using the same format as was provided and accepted in the Contractor’s proposal. Price reductions may be offered at any time during Contract. Special, time-limited reductions are permissible under the following conditions: 1) reduction is available to all users equally; 2) reduction is for a specific period, normally not less than thirty (30) days; and 3) original price is not exceeded after the time-limit. Contractor shall offer Region 4 ESC any published price reduction during the Contract term. 18)Audit Rights. Contractor shall, at its sole expense, maintain appropriate due diligence of all purchases made by Region 4 ESC and any entity that utilizes this Contract. Region 4 ESC reserves the right to audit the accounting for a period of three (3) years from the time such 22 of 369 purchases are made. This audit right shall survive termination of this Agreement for a period of one (1) year from the effective date of termination. Region 4 ESC shall have the authority to conduct random audits of Contractor’s pricing at Region 4 ESC's sole cost and expense. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event that Region 4 ESC is made aware of any pricing being offered that is materially inconsistent with the pricing under this agreement, Region 4 ESC shall have the ability to conduct an extensive audit of Contractor’s pricing at Contractor’s sole cost and expense. Region 4 ESC may conduct the audit internally or may engage a third- party auditing firm. In the event of an audit, the requested materials shall be provided in the format and at the location designated by Region 4 ESC. 19) Discontinued Products. If a product or model is discontinued by the manufacturer, Contractor may substitute a new product or model if the replacement product meets or exceeds the specifications and performance of the discontinued model and if the discount is the same or greater than the discontinued model. 20) New Products/Services. New products and/or services that meet the scope of work may be added to the Contract. Pricing shall be equivalent to the percentage discount for other products. Contractor may replace or add product lines if the line is replacing or supplementing products, is equal or superior to the original products, is discounted similarly or greater than the original discount, and if the products meet the requirements of the Contract. No products and/or services may be added to avoid competitive procurement requirements. Region 4 ESC may require additions to be submitted with documentation from Members demonstrating an interest in, or a potential requirement for, the new product or service. Region 4 ESC may reject any additions without cause. 21) Options. Optional equipment for products under Contract may be added to the Contract at the time they become available under the following conditions: 1) the option is priced at a discount similar to other options; 2) the option is an enhancement to the unit that improves performance or reliability. 22) Warranty Conditions. All supplies, equipment and services shall include manufacturer's minimum standard warranty and one (1) year labor warranty unless otherwise agreed to in writing. 23) Site Cleanup. Contractor shall clean up and remove all debris and rubbish resulting from their work as required or directed. Upon completion of the work, the premises shall be left in good repair and an orderly, neat, clean, safe and unobstructed condition. 24) Site Preparation. Contractor shall not begin a project for which the site has not been prepared, unless Contractor does the preparation work at no cost, or until Region 4 ESC includes the cost of site preparation in a purchase order. Site preparation includes, but is not limited to: moving furniture, installing wiring for networks or power, and similar pre-installation requirements. 25) Registered Sex Offender Restrictions. For work to be performed at schools, Contractor agrees no employee or employee of a subcontractor who has been adjudicated to be a registered sex offender will perform work at any time when students are or are reasonably expected to be present. Contractor agrees a violation of this condition shall be considered a material breach and may result in the cancellation of the purchase order at Region 4 ESC’s discretion. Contractor must identify any additional costs associated with compliance of this 23 of 369 term. If no costs are specified, compliance with this term will be provided at no additional charge. 26) Safety measures. Contractor shall take all reasonable precautions for the safety of employees on the worksite and shall erect and properly maintain all necessary safeguards for protection of workers and the public. Contractor shall post warning signs against all hazards created by its operation and work in progress. Proper precautions shall be taken pursuant to state law and standard practices to protect workers, general public and existing structures from injury or damage. 27) Smoking. Persons working under the Contract shall adhere to local smoking policies. Smoking will only be permitted in posted areas or off premises. 28) Stored materials. Upon prior written agreement between the Contractor and Region 4 ESC, payment may be made for materials not incorporated in the work but delivered and suitably stored at the site or some other location, for installation at a later date. An inventory of the stored materials must be provided to Region 4 ESC prior to payment. Such materials must be stored and protected in a secure location and be insured for their full value by the Contractor against loss and damage. Contractor agrees to provide proof of coverage and additionally insured upon request. Additionally, if stored offsite, the materials must also be clearly identified as property of Region 4 ESC and be separated from other materials. Region 4 ESC must be allowed reasonable opportunity to inspect and take inventory of stored materials, on or offsite, as necessary. Until final acceptance by Region 4 ESC, it shall be the Contractor's responsibility to protect all materials and equipment. Contractor warrants and guarantees that title for all work, materials and equipment shall pass to Region 4 ESC upon final acceptance. 29) Funding Out Clause. A Contract for the acquisition, including lease, of real or personal property is a commitment of Region 4 ESC’s current revenue only. Region 4 ESC retains the right to terminate the Contract at the expiration of each budget period during the term of the Contract and is conditioned on a best effort attempt by Region 4 ESC to obtain appropriate funds for payment of the contract. 30) Indemnity. Contractor shall protect, indemnify, and hold harmless both Region 4 ESC and its administrators, employees and agents against all claims, damages, losses and expenses arising out of or resulting from the actions of the Contractor, Contractor employees or subcontractors in the preparation of the solicitation and the later execution of the Contract. Any litigation involving either Region 4 ESC, its administrators and employees and agents will be in Harris County, Texas. 31) Marketing. Contractor agrees to allow Region 4 ESC to use their name and logo within website, marketing materials and advertisement. Any use of Region 4 ESC name and logo or any form of publicity, inclusive of press releases, regarding this Contract by Contractor must have prior approval from Region 4 ESC. 32) Certificates of Insurance. Certificates of insurance shall be delivered to the Region 4 ESC prior to commencement of work. The Contractor shall give Region 4 ESC a minimum of ten (10) days’ notice prior to any modifications or cancellation of policies. The Contractor shall require all subcontractors performing any work to maintain coverage as specified. 33) Legal Obligations. It is Contractor’s responsibility to be aware of and comply with all local, state, and federal laws governing the sale of products/services and shall comply with all laws 24 of 369 while fulfilling the Contract. Applicable laws and regulation must be followed even if not specifically identified herein. 34)Tariff Surcharges: Contractor has the option to charge a surcharge, as an additional line item, if approved by the purchasing agency. All surcharges must be based on a percentage of total order and must be approved by Region 4 prior to use. 25 of 369 OFFER AND CONTRACT SIGNATURE FORM The undersigned hereby offers and, if awarded, agrees to furnish goods and/or services in strict compliance with the terms, specifications and conditions at the prices proposed within response unless noted in writing. Company Name Address City/State/Zip Telephone No. Email Address Printed Name Title Authorized signature Accepted by Region 4 ESC: Contract No. ______________ Initial Contract Term to Region 4 ESC Authorized Board Member Date Print Name Region 4 ESC Authorized Board Member Date Print Name 26 of 369 Appendix B TERMS & CONDITIONS ACCEPTANCE FORM Signature on the Offer and Contract Signature form certifies complete acceptance of the terms and conditions in this solicitation and draft Contract except as noted below with proposed substitute language (additional pages may be attached, if necessary). The provisions of the RFP cannot be modified without the express written approval of Region 4 ESC. If a proposal is returned with modifications to the draft Contract provisions that are not expressly approved in writing by Region 4 ESC, the Contract provisions contained in the RFP shall prevail. Check one of the following responses:  Offeror takes no exceptions to the terms and conditions of the RFP and draft Contract. (Note: If none are listed below, it is understood that no exceptions/deviations are taken.)  Offeror takes the following exceptions to the RFP and draft Contract. All exceptions must be clearly explained, reference the corresponding term to which Offeror is taking exception and clearly state any proposed modified language, proposed additional terms to the RFP and draft Contract must be included: (Note: Unacceptable exceptions may remove Offeror’s proposal from consideration for award. Region 4 ESC shall be the sole judge on the acceptance of exceptions and modifications and the decision shall be final. If an offer is made with modifications to the contract provisions that are not expressly approved in writing, the contract provisions contained in the RFP shall prevail.) Section/Page Term, Condition, or Specification Exception/Proposed Modification Accepted (For Region 4 ESC’s use) 27 of 369 Appendix C ADDITIONAL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS DOC #1 Acknowledgment and Acceptance of Region 4 ESC’s Open Records Policy DOC #2 Antitrust Certification Statements (Tex. Government Code § 2155.005) DOC #3 Implementation of House Bill 1295 Certificate of Interested Parties (Form 1295) DOC #4 Texas Government Code 2270 Verification Form 28 of 369 Appendix C, Doc #1 ACKNOWLEDGMENT AND ACCEPTANCE OF REGION 4 ESC’s OPEN RECORDS POLICY OPEN RECORDS POLICY All proposals, information and documents submitted are subject to the Public Information Act requirements governed by the State of Texas once a Contract(s) is executed. If an Offeror believes its response, or parts of its response, may be exempted from disclosure, the Offeror must specify page-by-page and line-by-line the parts of the response, which it believes, are exempt and include detailed reasons to substantiate the exemption. Price is not confidential and will not be withheld. Any unmarked information will be considered public information and released, if requested under the Public Information Act. The determination of whether information is confidential and not subject to disclosure is the duty of the Office of Attorney General (OAG). Region 4 ESC must provide the OAG sufficient information to render an opinion and therefore, vague and general claims to confidentiality by the Offeror are not acceptable. Region 4 ESC must comply with the opinions of the OAG. Region 4 ESC assumes no responsibility for asserting legal arguments on behalf of any Offeror. Offeror is advised to consult with their legal counsel concerning disclosure issues resulting from this procurement process and to take precautions to safeguard trade secrets and other proprietary information. Signature below certifies complete acceptance of Region 4 ESC’s Open Records Policy, except as noted below (additional pages may be attached, if necessary). Check one of the following responses to the Acknowledgment and Acceptance of Region 4 ESC’s Open Records Policy below:  We acknowledge Region 4 ESC’s Open Records Policy and declare that no information submitted with this proposal, or any part of our proposal, is exempt from disclosure under the Public Information Act.  We declare the following information to be a trade secret or proprietary and exempt from disclosure under the Public Information Act. (Note: Offeror must specify page-by-page and line-by-line the parts of the response, which it believes, are exempt. In addition, Offeror must include detailed reasons to substantiate the exemption(s). Price is not confident and will not be withheld. All information believed to be a trade secret or proprietary must be listed. It is further understood that failure to identify such information, in strict accordance with the instructions, will result in that information being considered public information and released, if requested under the Public Information Act.) Date Authorized Signature & Title 29 of 369 Appendix C, Doc #2 ANTITRUST CERTIFICATION STATEMENTS (Tex. Government Code § 2155.005) Attorney General Form I affirm under penalty of perjury of the laws of the State of Texas that: 1.I am duly authorized to execute this Contract on my own behalf or on behalf of the company, corporation, firm, partnership or individual (Company) listed below; 2.In connection with this proposal, neither I nor any representative of the Company has violated any provision of the Texas Free Enterprise and Antitrust Act, Tex. Bus. & Comm. Code Chapter 15; 3.In connection with this proposal, neither I nor any representative of the Company has violated any federal antitrust law; and 4.Neither I nor any representative of the Company has directly or indirectly communicated any of the contents of this proposal to a competitor of the Company or any other company, corporation, firm, partnership or individual engaged in the same line of business as the Company. Company Contact Signature Printed Name Address Position with Company Official Authorizing Proposal Signature Phone Printed Name Fax Position with Company 30 of 369 Appendix C, DOC # 3 Implementation of House Bill 1295 Certificate of Interested Parties (Form 1295): In 2015, the Texas Legislature adopted House Bill 1295, which added section 2252.908 of the Government Code. The law states that a governmental entity or state agency may not enter into certain contracts with a business entity unless the business entity submits a disclosure of interested parties to the governmental entity or state agency at the time the business entity submits the signed contract to the governmental entity or state agency. The law applies only to a contract of a governmental entity or state agency that either (1) requires an action or vote by the governing body of the entity or agency before the contract may be signed or (2) has a value of at least $1 million. The disclosure requirement applies to a contract entered into on or after January 1, 2016. The Texas Ethics Commission was required to adopt rules necessary to implement that law, prescribe the disclosure of interested parties form, and post a copy of the form on the commission’s website. The commission adopted the Certificate of Interested Parties form (Form 1295) on October 5, 2015. The commission also adopted new rules (Chapter 46) on November 30, 2015, to implement the law. The commission does not have any additional authority to enforce or interpret House Bill 1295. Filing Process: Staring on January 1, 2016, the commission made available on its website a new filing application that must be used to file Form 1295. A business entity must use the application to enter the required information on Form 1295 and print a copy of the completed form, which will include a certification of filing that will contain a unique certification number. An authorized agent of the business entity must sign the printed copy of the form. The completed Form 1295 with the certification of filing must be filed with the governmental body or state agency with which the business entity is entering into the contract. The governmental entity or state agency must notify the commission, using the commission’s filing application, of the receipt of the filed Form 1295 with the certification of filing not later than the 30th day after the date the contract binds all parties to the contract. This process is known as acknowledging the certificate. The commission will post the acknowledged Form 1295 to its website within seven business days after receiving notice from the governmental entity or state agency. The posted acknowledged form does not contain the declaration of signature information provided by the business. A certificate will stay in the pending state until it is acknowledged by the governmental agency. Only acknowledged certificates are posted to the commission’s website. Electronic Filing Application: https://www.ethics.state.tx.us/whatsnew/elf info form1295.htm Frequently Asked Questions: https://www.ethics.state.tx.us/resources/FAQs/FAQ Form1295.php Changes to Form 1295: https://www.ethics.state.tx.us/data/filinginfo/1295Changes.pdf 31 of 369 Appendix C, DOC # 4 Texas Government Code 2270 Verification Form House Bill 89 (85R Legislative Session), which adds Chapter 2270 to the Texas Government Code, provides that a governmental entity may not enter into a contract with a company without verification that the contracting vendor does not and will not boycott Israel during the term of the contract. Furthermore, Senate Bill 252 (85R Legislative Session), which amends Chapter 2252 of the Texas Government Code to add Subchapter F, prohibits contracting with a company engaged in business with Iran, Sudan or a foreign terrorist organization identified on a list prepared by the Texas Comptroller. I, ___________________________________________________, as an authorized representative of _____________________________________________________________, a contractor engaged by Insert Name of Company Region 4 Education Service Center, 7145 West Tidwell Road, Houston, TX 77092, verify by this writing that the above-named company affirms that it (1) does not boycott Israel; and (2) will not boycott Israel during the term of this contract, or any contract with the above-named Texas governmental entity in the future. Also, our company is not listed on and we do not do business with companies that are on the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts list of Designated Foreign Terrorists Organizations found at https://comptroller.texas.gov/purchasing/docs/foreign-terrorist.pdf. I further affirm that if our company's position on this issue is reversed and this affirmation is no longer valid, that the above-named Texas governmental entity will be notified in writing within one (1) business day and we understand that our company's failure to affirm and comply with the requirements of Texas Government Code 2270 et seq. shall be grounds for immediate contract termination without penalty to the above-named Texas governmental entity. I swear and affirm that the above is true and correct. ______________________________________________ ________________ Signature of Named Authorized Company Representative Date 32 of 369 Appendix D REQUIREMENTS FOR NATIONAL COOPERATIVE CONTRACT TO BE ADMINISTERED BY OMNIA PARTNERS, PUBLIC SECTOR The following documents are used in evaluating and administering national cooperative contracts and are included for Supplier’s review and response. Exhibit A – RESPONSE FOR NATIONAL COOPERATIVE CONTRACT Exhibit B – ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENT, EXAMPLE Exhibit C – MASTER INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATIVE PURCHASING AGREEMENT, EXAMPLE Exhibit D – PRINCIPAL PROCUREMENT AGENCY CERTIFICATE, EXAMPLE Exhibit E – CONTRACT SALES REPORTING TEMPLATE Exhibit F – FEDERAL FUNDS CERTIFICATIONS Exhibit G – NEW JERSEY BUSINESS COMPLIANCE Exhibit H – ADVERTISING COMPLIANCE REQUIREMENT 33 of 369 EXHIBIT A RESPONSE FOR NATIONAL COOPERATIVE CONTRACT 1.0 Scope of National Cooperative Contract Capitalized terms not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings given to them in the Master Agreement or in the Administration Agreement between Supplier and OMNIA Partners, Public Sector. 1.1 Requirement Region 4 ESC, (hereinafter defined and referred to as “Principal Procurement Agency”), on behalf of itself and the National Intergovernmental Purchasing Alliance Company, a Delaware corporation d/b/a OMNIA Partners, Public Sector (“OMNIA Partners, Public Sector”), is requesting proposals for Furniture, Installation, and Related Services. The intent of this Request for Proposal is any contract between Principal Procurement Agency and Supplier resulting from this Request for Proposal (“Master Agreement”) be made available to other public agencies nationally, including state and local governmental entities, public and private primary, secondary and higher education entities, non-profit entities, and agencies for the public benefit (“Public Agencies”), through OMNIA Partners, Public Sector’s cooperative purchasing program. The Principal Procurement Agency has executed a Principal Procurement Agency Certificate with OMNIA Partners, Public Sector, an example of which is included as Exhibit D, and has agreed to pursue the Master Agreement. Use of the Master Agreement by any Public Agency is preceded by their registration with OMNIA Partners, Public Sector as a Participating Public Agency in OMNIA Partners, Public Sector’s cooperative purchasing program. Registration with OMNIA Partners, Public Sector as a Participating Public Agency is accomplished by Public Agencies entering into a Master Intergovernmental Cooperative Purchasing Agreement, an example of which is attached as Exhibit C, and by using the Master Agreement, any such Participating Public Agency agrees that it is registered with OMNIA Partners, Public Sector, whether pursuant to the terms of the Master Intergovernmental Purchasing Cooperative Agreement or as otherwise agreed to. The terms and pricing established in the resulting Master Agreement between the Supplier and the Principal Procurement Agency will be the same as that available to Participating Public Agencies through OMNIA Partners, Public Sector. All transactions, purchase orders, invoices, payments etc., will occur directly between the Supplier and each Participating Public Agency individually, and neither OMNIA Partners, Public Sector, any Principal Procurement Agency nor any Participating Public Agency, including their respective agents, directors, employees or representatives, shall be liable to Supplier for any acts, liabilities, damages, etc., 34 of 369 incurred by any other Participating Public Agency. Supplier is responsible for knowing the tax laws in each state. This Exhibit A defines the expectations for qualifying Suppliers based on OMNIA Partners, Public Sector’s requirements to market the resulting Master Agreement nationally to Public Agencies. Each section in this Exhibit A refers to the capabilities, requirements, obligations, and prohibitions of competing Suppliers on a national level in order to serve Participating Public Agencies through OMNIA Partners, Public Sector. These requirements are incorporated into and are considered an integral part of this RFP. OMNIA Partners, Public Sector reserves the right to determine whether or not to make the Master Agreement awarded by the Principal Procurement Agency available to Participating Public Agencies, in its sole and absolute discretion, and any party submitting a response to this RFP acknowledges that any award by the Principal Procurement Agency does not obligate OMNIA Partners, Public Sector to make the Master Agreement available to Participating Procurement Agencies. 1.2 Marketing, Sales and Administrative Support During the term of the Master Agreement OMNIA Partners, Public Sector intends to provide marketing, sales, partnership development and administrative support for Supplier pursuant to this section that directly promotes the Supplier’s products and services to Participating Public Agencies through multiple channels, each designed to promote specific products and services to Public Agencies on a national basis. OMNIA Partners will assign the Supplier a Director of Partner Development who will serve as the main point of contact for the Supplier and will be responsible for managing the overall relationship between the Supplier and OMNIA Partners. The Director of Partner Development will work with the Supplier to develop a comprehensive strategy to promote the Master Agreement and will connect the Supplier with appropriate stakeholders within OMNIA Partners including, Sales, Marketing, Contracting, Training, and Operations & Support. The OMNIA Partners, Public Sector marketing team will work in conjunction with Supplier to promote the Master Agreement to both existing Participating Public Agencies and prospective Public Agencies through channels that may include: A.Marketing collateral (print, electronic, email, presentations) B.Website C.Trade shows/conferences/meetings D.Advertising E. Social Media The OMNIA Partners, Public Sector sales teams will work in conjunction with Supplier to promote the Master Agreement to both existing Participating Public Agencies and prospective Public Agencies through initiatives that may include: A.Individual sales calls B.Joint sales calls 35 of 369 C.Communications/customer service D.Training sessions for Public Agency teams E.Training sessions for Supplier teams The OMNIA Partners, Public Sector contracting teams will work in conjunction with Supplier to promote the Master Agreement to both existing Participating Public Agencies and prospective Public Agencies through: A.Serving as the subject matter expert for questions regarding joint powers authority and state statutes and regulations for cooperative purchasing B.Training sessions for Public Agency teams C.Training sessions for Supplier teams D.Regular business reviews to monitor program success E.General contract administration Suppliers are required to pay an administrative fee of three percent (3%) of the greater of the Contract Sales under the Master Agreement and Guaranteed Contract Sales under this Request for Proposal. Supplier will be required to execute the OMNIA Partners, Public Sector Administration Agreement (Exhibit B). 1.3 Estimated Volume The dollar volume purchased under the Master Agreement is estimated to be approximately $275 million annually. While no minimum volume is guaranteed to Supplier, the estimated annual volume is projected based on the current annual volumes among the Principal Procurement Agency, other Participating Public Agencies that are anticipated to utilize the resulting Master Agreement to be made available to them through OMNIA Partners, Public Sector, and volume growth into other Public Agencies through a coordinated marketing approach between Supplier and OMNIA Partners, Public Sector. 1.4 Award Basis The basis of any contract award resulting from this RFP made by Principal Procurement Agency will, at OMNIA Partners, Public Sector’s option, be the basis of award on a national level through OMNIA Partners, Public Sector. If multiple Suppliers are awarded by Principal Procurement Agency under the Master Agreement, those same Suppliers will be required to extend the Master Agreement to Participating Public Agencies through OMNIA Partners, Public Sector. Utilization of the Master Agreement by Participating Public Agencies will be at the discretion of the individual Participating Public Agency. Certain terms of the Master Agreement specifically applicable to the Principal Procurement Agency (e.g. governing law) are subject to modification for each Participating Public Agency as Supplier, such Participating Public Agency and OMNIA Partners, Public Sector shall agree without being in conflict with the Master Agreement. Participating Agencies may request to enter into a separate supplemental agreement to further define the level of service requirements over and above the minimum defined in the Master Agreement (i.e. invoice requirements, order requirements, specialized delivery, diversity requirements such as minority and woman owned businesses, historically underutilized business, governing law, etc.). It shall be the responsibility of the Supplier to comply, when 36 of 369 applicable, with the prevailing wage legislation in effect in the jurisdiction of the Participating Agency. It shall further be the responsibility of the Supplier to monitor the prevailing wage rates as established by the appropriate department of labor for any increase in rates during the term of the Master Agreement and adjust wage rates accordingly. Any supplemental agreement developed as a result of the Master Agreement is exclusively between the Participating Agency and the Supplier (Contract Sales are reported to OMNIA Partners, Public Sector). All purchase orders issued and accepted by the Supplier may survive expiration or termination of the Master Agreement. Participating Agencies’ purchase orders may exceed the term of the Master Agreement if the purchase order is issued prior to the expiration of the Master Agreement. Supplier is responsible for reporting all sales and paying the applicable administrative fee for sales that use the Master Agreement as the basis for the purchase order, even though Master Agreement may have expired. 1.5 Objectives of Cooperative Program This RFP is intended to achieve the following objectives regarding availability through OMNIA Partners, Public Sector’s cooperative program: A.Provide a comprehensive competitively solicited and awarded national agreement offering the Products covered by this solicitation to Participating Public Agencies; B.Establish the Master Agreement as the Supplier’s primary go to market strategy to Public Agencies nationwide; C.Achieve cost savings for Supplier and Public Agencies through a single solicitation process that will reduce the Supplier’s need to respond to multiple solicitations and Public Agencies need to conduct their own solicitation process; D.Combine the aggregate purchasing volumes of Participating Public Agencies to achieve cost effective pricing. 2.0 REPRESENTATIONS AND COVENANTS As a condition to Supplier entering into the Master Agreement, which would be available to all Public Agencies, Supplier must make certain representations, warranties and covenants to both the Principal Procurement Agency and OMNIA Partners, Public Sector designed to ensure the success of the Master Agreement for all Participating Public Agencies as well as the Supplier. 2.1 Corporate Commitment Supplier commits that (1) the Master Agreement has received all necessary corporate authorizations and support of the Supplier’s executive management, (2) the Master 37 of 369 Agreement is Supplier's primary “go to market” strategy for Public Agencies, (3) the Master Agreement will be promoted to all Public Agencies, including any existing customers, and Supplier will transition existing customers, upon their request, to the Master Agreement, and (4) that the Supplier has read and agrees to the terms and conditions of the Administration Agreement with OMNIA Partners, Public Sector and will execute such agreement concurrent with and as a condition of its execution of the Master Agreement with the Principal Procurement Agency. Supplier will identify an executive corporate sponsor and a separate national account manager within the RFP response that will be responsible for the overall management of the Master Agreement. 2.2 Pricing Commitment Supplier commits the not-to-exceed pricing provided under the Master Agreement pricing is its lowest available (net to buyer) to Public Agencies nationwide and further commits that if a Participating Public Agency is eligible for lower pricing through a national, state, regional or local or cooperative contract, the Supplier will match such lower pricing to that Participating Public Agency under the Master Agreement. 2.3 Sales Commitment Supplier commits to aggressively market the Master Agreement as its go to market strategy in this defined sector and that its sales force will be trained, engaged and committed to offering the Master Agreement to Public Agencies through OMNIA Partners, Public Sector nationwide. Supplier commits that all Master Agreement sales will be accurately and timely reported to OMNIA Partners, Public Sector in accordance with the OMNIA Partners, Public Sector Administration Agreement. Supplier also commits its sales force will be compensated, including sales incentives, for sales to Public Agencies under the Master Agreement in a consistent or better manner compared to sales to Public Agencies if the Supplier were not awarded the Master Agreement. 3.0 SUPPLIER RESPONSE Supplier must supply the following information in order for the Principal Procurement Agency to determine Supplier’s qualifications to extend the resulting Master Agreement to Participating Public Agencies through OMNIA Partners, Public Sector. 3.1 Company A.Brief history and description of Supplier. B.Total number and location of sales persons employed by Supplier. C.Number and location of support centers (if applicable) and location of corporate office. D.Annual sales for the three previous fiscal years. E.Submit FEIN and Dunn & Bradstreet report. F.Describe any green or environmental initiatives or policies. 38 of 369 G.Describe any diversity programs or partners supplier does business with and how Participating Agencies may use diverse partners through the Master Agreement. Indicate how, if at all, pricing changes when using the diversity program. H.Describe any historically underutilized business certifications supplier holds and the certifying agency. This may include business enterprises such as minority and women owned, small or disadvantaged, disable veterans, etc. I.Describe how supplier differentiates itself from its competitors. J.Describe any present or past litigation, bankruptcy or reorganization involving supplier. K.Felony Conviction Notice: Indicate if the supplier a.is a publicly held corporation and this reporting requirement is not applicable; b.is not owned or operated by anyone who has been convicted of a felony; or c.is owned or operated by and individual(s) who has been convicted of a felony and provide the names and convictions. L.Describe any debarment or suspension actions taken against supplier 3.2 Distribution, Logistics A.Describe the full line of products and services offered by supplier. B.Describe how supplier proposes to distribute the products/service nationwide. Include any states where products and services will not be offered under the Master Agreement, including U.S. Territories and Outlying Areas. C.Describe how Participating Agencies are ensure they will receive the Master Agreement pricing; include all distribution channels such as direct ordering, retail or in-store locations, through distributors, etc. Describe how Participating Agencies verify and audit pricing to ensure its compliance with the Master Agreement. D.Identify all other companies that will be involved in processing, handling or shipping the products/service to the end user. E.Provide the number, size and location of Supplier’s distribution facilities, warehouses and retail network as applicable. 3.3 Marketing and Sales A.Provide a detailed ninety-day plan beginning from award date of the Master Agreement describing the strategy to immediately implement the Master Agreement as supplier’s primary go to market strategy for Public Agencies to supplier’s teams nationwide, to include, but not limited to: i.Executive leadership endorsement and sponsorship of the award as the public sector go-to-market strategy within first 10 days 39 of 369 ii.Training and education of Supplier’s national sales force with participation from the Supplier’s executive leadership, along with the OMNIA Partners, Public Sector team within first 90 days B.Provide a detailed ninety-day plan beginning from award date of the Master Agreement describing the strategy to market the Master Agreement to current Participating Public Agencies, existing Public Agency customers of Supplier, as well as to prospective Public Agencies nationwide immediately upon award, to include, but not limited to: i.Creation and distribution of a co-branded press release to trade publications ii.Announcement, Master Agreement details and contact information published on the Supplier’s website within first 90 days iii.Design, publication and distribution of co-branded marketing materials within first 90 days iv.Commitment to attendance and participation with OMNIA Partners, Public Sector at national (i.e. NIGP Annual Forum, NPI Conference, etc.), regional (i.e. Regional NIGP Chapter Meetings, Regional Cooperative Summits, etc.) and supplier-specific trade shows, conferences and meetings throughout the term of the Master Agreement v.Commitment to attend, exhibit and participate at the NIGP Annual Forum in an area reserved by OMNIA Partners, Public Sector for partner suppliers. Booth space will be purchased and staffed by Supplier. In addition, Supplier commits to provide reasonable assistance to the overall promotion and marketing efforts for the NIGP Annual Forum, as directed by OMNIA Partners, Public Sector. vi.Design and publication of national and regional advertising in trade publications throughout the term of the Master Agreement vii.Ongoing marketing and promotion of the Master Agreement throughout its term (case studies, collateral pieces, presentations, promotions, etc.) viii.Dedicated OMNIA Partners, Public Sector internet web-based homepage on Supplier’s website with: •OMNIA Partners, Public Sector standard logo; •Copy of original Request for Proposal; •Copy of Master Agreement and amendments between Principal Procurement Agency and Supplier; •Summary of Products and pricing; •Marketing Materials •Electronic link to OMNIA Partners, Public Sector’s website including the online registration page; •A dedicated toll-free number and email address for OMNIA Partners, Public Sector 40 of 369 C.Describe how Supplier will transition any existing Public Agency customers’ accounts to the Master Agreement available nationally through OMNIA Partners, Public Sector. Include a list of current cooperative contracts (regional and national) Supplier holds and describe how the Master Agreement will be positioned among the other cooperative agreements. D.Acknowledge Supplier agrees to provide its logo(s) to OMNIA Partners, Public Sector and agrees to provide permission for reproduction of such logo in marketing communications and promotions. Acknowledge that use of OMNIA Partners, Public Sector logo will require permission for reproduction, as well. E.Confirm Supplier will be proactive in direct sales of Supplier’s goods and services to Public Agencies nationwide and the timely follow up to leads established by OMNIA Partners, Public Sector. All sales materials are to use the OMNIA Partners, Public Sector logo. At a minimum, the Supplier’s sales initiatives should communicate: i.Master Agreement was competitively solicited and publicly awarded by a Principal Procurement Agency ii.Best government pricing iii.No cost to participate iv.Non-exclusive F.Confirm Supplier will train its national sales force on the Master Agreement. At a minimum, sales training should include: i.Key features of Master Agreement ii.Working knowledge of the solicitation process iii.Awareness of the range of Public Agencies that can utilize the Master Agreement through OMNIA Partners, Public Sector iv.Knowledge of benefits of the use of cooperative contracts G.Provide the name, title, email and phone number for the person(s), who will be responsible for: i.Executive Support ii.Marketing iii.Sales iv.Sales Support v.Financial Reporting vi.Accounts Payable vii.Contracts H.Describe in detail how Supplier’s national sales force is structured, including contact information for the highest-level executive in charge of the sales team. 41 of 369 I.Explain in detail how the sales teams will work with the OMNIA Partners, Public Sector team to implement, grow and service the national program. I.Explain in detail how Supplier will manage the overall national program throughout the term of the Master Agreement, including ongoing coordination of marketing and sales efforts, timely new Participating Public Agency account set-up, timely contract administration, etc. J.State the amount of Supplier’s Public Agency sales for the previous fiscal year. Provide a list of Supplier’s top 10 Public Agency customers, the total purchases for each for the previous fiscal year along with a key contact for each. K.Describe Supplier’s information systems capabilities and limitations regarding order management through receipt of payment, including description of multiple platforms that may be used for any of these functions. M.Provide the Contract Sales (as defined in Section 10 of the OMNIA Partners, Public Sector Administration Agreement) that Supplier will guarantee each year under the Master Agreement for the initial three years of the Master Agreement (“Guaranteed Contract Sales”). $_______.00 in year one $_______.00 in year two $_______.00 in year three To the extent Supplier guarantees minimum Contract Sales, the administration fee shall be calculated based on the greater of the actual Contract Sales and the Guaranteed Contract Sales. M.Even though it is anticipated many Public Agencies will be able to utilize the Master Agreement without further formal solicitation, there may be circumstances where Public Agencies will issue their own solicitations. The following options are available when responding to a solicitation for Products covered under the Master Agreement. i.Respond with Master Agreement pricing (Contract Sales reported to OMNIA Partners, Public Sector). ii.If competitive conditions require pricing lower than the standard Master Agreement not-to-exceed pricing, Supplier may respond with lower pricing through the Master Agreement. If Supplier is awarded the contract, the sales are reported as Contract Sales to OMNIA Partners, Public Sector under the Master Agreement. iii.Respond with pricing higher than Master Agreement only in the unlikely event that the Public Agency refuses to utilize Master Agreement (Contract Sales are not reported to OMNIA Partners, Public Sector). iv.If alternative or multiple proposals are permitted, respond with pricing higher than Master Agreement, and include Master Agreement as the alternate or additional proposal. Detail Supplier’s strategies under these options when responding to a solicitation. 42 of 369 EXHIBIT B ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENT, EXAMPLE ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENT THIS ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENT (this “Agreement”) is made this ___ day of ______ 20___, between National Intergovernmental Purchasing Alliance Company, a Delaware corporation d/b/a OMNIA Partners, Public Sector (“OMNIA Partners, Public Sector”), and ________________ (“Supplier”). RECITALS WHEREAS, the ___________________ (the “Principal Procurement Agency”) has entered into a Master Agreement effective _________________, Agreement No_______, by and between the Principal Procurement Agency and Supplier, (as may be amended from time to time in accordance with the terms thereof, the “Master Agreement”), as attached hereto as Exhibit A and incorporated herein by reference as though fully set forth herein, for the purchase of _____________________ (the “Product”); WHEREAS, said Master Agreement provides that any or all public agencies, including state and local governmental entities, public and private primary, secondary and higher education entities, non-profit entities, and agencies for the public benefit (collectively, “Public Agencies”), that register (either via registration on the OMNIA Partners, Public Sector website or execution of a Master Intergovernmental Cooperative Purchasing Agreement, attached hereto as Exhibit B) (each, hereinafter referred to as a “Participating Public Agency”) may purchase Product at prices stated in the Master Agreement; WHEREAS, Participating Public Agencies may access the Master Agreement which is offered through OMNIA Partners, Public Sector to Public Agencies; WHEREAS, OMNIA Partners, Public Sector serves as the contract administrator of the Master Agreement on behalf of Principal Procurement Agency; WHEREAS, Principal Procurement Agency desires OMNIA Partners, Public Sector to proceed with administration of the Master Agreement; and WHEREAS, OMNIA Partners, Public Sector and Supplier desire to enter into this Agreement to make available the Master Agreement to Participating Public Agencies and to set forth certain terms and conditions governing the relationship between OMNIA Partners, Public Sector and Supplier. NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the payments to be made hereunder and the mutual covenants contained in this Agreement, OMNIA Partners, Public Sector and Supplier hereby agree as follows: DEFINITIONS 1.Capitalized terms used in this Agreement and not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings given to them in the Master Agreement. 43 of 369 TERMS AND CONDITIONS 2.The Master Agreement and the terms and conditions contained therein shall apply to this Agreement except as expressly changed or modified by this Agreement. Supplier acknowledges and agrees that the covenants and agreements of Supplier set forth in the solicitation and Supplier’s response thereto resulting in the Master Agreement are incorporated herein and are an integral part hereof. 3.OMNIA Partners, Public Sector shall be afforded all of the rights, privileges and indemnifications afforded to Principal Procurement Agency by or from Supplier under the Master Agreement, and such rights, privileges and indemnifications shall accrue and apply with equal effect to OMNIA Partners, Public Sector, its agents, employees, directors, and representatives under this Agreement including, but not limited to, Supplier’s obligation to obtain appropriate insurance. 4.OMNIA Partners, Public Sector shall perform all of its duties, responsibilities and obligations as contract administrator of the Master Agreement on behalf of Principal Procurement Agency as set forth herein, and Supplier hereby acknowledges and agrees that all duties, responsibilities and obligations will be undertaken by OMNIA Partners, Public Sector solely in its capacity as the contract administrator under the Master Agreement. 5.With respect to any purchases by Principal Procurement Agency or any Participating Public Agency pursuant to the Master Agreement, OMNIA Partners, Public Sector shall not be: (i) construed as a dealer, re-marketer, representative, partner or agent of any type of the Supplier, Principal Procurement Agency or any Participating Public Agency; (ii) obligated, liable or responsible for any order for Product made by Principal Procurement Agency or any Participating Public Agency or any employee thereof under the Master Agreement or for any payment required to be made with respect to such order for Product; and (iii) obligated, liable or responsible for any failure by Principal Procurement Agency or any Participating Public Agency to comply with procedures or requirements of applicable law or the Master Agreement or to obtain the due authorization and approval necessary to purchase under the Master Agreement. OMNIA Partners, Public Sector makes no representation or guaranty with respect to any minimum purchases by Principal Procurement Agency or any Participating Public Agency or any employee thereof under this Agreement or the Master Agreement. 6.OMNIA Partners, Public Sector shall not be responsible for Supplier’s performance under the Master Agreement, and Supplier shall hold OMNIA Partners, Public Sector harmless from any liability that may arise from the acts or omissions of Supplier in connection with the Master Agreement. 7.WITHOUT LIMITING THE GENERALITY OF THE FOREGOING, OMNIA PARTNERS, PUBLIC SECTOR EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ALL EXPRESS OR IMPLIED REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES REGARDING OMNIA PARTNERS, PUBLIC SECTOR’S PERFORMANCE AS A CONTRACT ADMINISTRATOR OF THE MASTER AGREEMENT. OMNIA PARTNERS, PUBLIC SECTOR SHALL NOT BE LIABLE IN ANY WAY FOR ANY SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, EXEMPLARY, PUNITIVE, OR RELIANCE DAMAGES, EVEN IF OMNIA PARTNERS, PUBLIC SECTOR IS ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. TERM OF AGREEMENT; TERMINATION 8.This Agreement shall be in effect so long as the Master Agreement remains in effect, provided, however, that the provisions of Sections 3 – 8 and 12 – 23, hereof and the 44 of 369 indemnifications afforded by the Supplier to OMNIA Partners, Public Sector in the Master Agreement, to the extent such provisions survive any expiration or termination of the Master Agreement, shall survive the expiration or termination of this Agreement. 9.Supplier’s failure to maintain its covenants and commitments contained in this Agreement or any action of the Supplier which gives rise to a right by Principal Procurement Agency to terminate the Master Agreement shall constitute a material breach of this Agreement. If such breach is not cured within thirty (30) days of written notice to Supplier, in addition to any and all remedies available at law or equity, OMNIA Partners, Public Sector shall have the right to terminate this Agreement, at OMNIA Partners, Public Sector’s sole discretion. Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, this Agreement shall terminate on the date of the termination or expiration of the Master Agreement. NATIONAL PROMOTION 10.OMNIA Partners, Public Sector and Supplier shall publicize and promote the availability of the Master Agreement’s products and services to Public Agencies and such agencies’ employees. Supplier shall require each Public Agency to register its participation in the OMNIA Partners, Public Sector program by either registering on the OMNIA Partners, Public Sector website (www.omniapartners.com/publicsector), or executing a Master Intergovernmental Cooperative Purchasing Agreement prior to processing the Participating Public Agency’s first sales order. Upon request, Supplier shall make available to interested Public Agencies a copy of the Master Agreement and such price lists or quotes as may be necessary for such Public Agencies to evaluate potential purchases. 11.Supplier shall provide such marketing and administrative support as set forth in the solicitation resulting in the Master Agreement, including assisting in development of marketing materials as reasonably requested by Principal Procurement Agency and OMNIA Partners, Public Sector. Supplier shall be responsible for obtaining permission or license of use and payment of any license fees for all content and images Supplier provides to OMNIA Partners, Public Sector or posts on the OMNIA Partners, Public Sector website. Supplier shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless OMNIA Partners, Public Sector for use of all such content and images including copyright infringement claims. Supplier and OMNIA Partners, Public Sector each hereby grant to the other party a limited, revocable, non-transferable, non-sublicensable right to use such party’s logo (each, the “Logo”) solely for use in marketing the Master Agreement. Each party shall provide the other party with the standard terms of use of such party’s Logo, and such party shall comply with such terms in all material respects. Both parties shall obtain approval from the other party prior to use of such party’s Logo. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the parties understand and agree that except as provided herein neither party shall have any right, title or interest in the other party’s Logo. Upon termination of this Agreement, each party shall immediately cease use of the other party’s Logo. ADMINISTRATIVE FEE, REPORTING & PAYMENT 12.An “Administrative Fee” shall be defined and due to OMNIA Partners, Public Sector from Supplier in the amount of three percent (3%) (“Administrative Fee Percentage”) multiplied by the total purchase amount paid to Supplier, less refunds, credits on returns, rebates and discounts, for the sale of products and/or services to Principal Procurement Agency and Participating Public Agencies pursuant to the Master Agreement (as amended from time to time and including any renewal thereof) (“Contract Sales”). From time to time the parties may mutually agree in writing to a lower Administrative Fee Percentage for a specifically identified Participating Public Agency’s Contract Sales. 45 of 369 13.Supplier shall provide OMNIA Partners, Public Sector with an electronic accounting report monthly, in the format prescribed by OMNIA Partners, Public Sector, summarizing all Contract Sales for each calendar month. The Contract Sales reporting format is provided as Exhibit C (“Contract Sales Report”), attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference. Contract Sales Reports for each calendar month shall be provided by Supplier to OMNIA Partners, Public Sector by the 10 day of the following month. Failure to provide a Contract Sales Report within the time and manner specified herein shall constitute a material breach of this Agreement and if not cured within thirty (30) days of written notice to Supplier shall be deemed a cause for termination of the Master Agreement, at Principal Procurement Agency’s sole discretion, and/or this Agreement, at OMNIA Partners, Public Sector’s sole discretion. 14.Administrative Fee payments are to be paid by Supplier to OMNIA Partners, Public Sector at the frequency and on the due date stated in Section 13, above, for Supplier’s submission of corresponding Contract Sales Reports. Administrative Fee payments are to be made via Automated Clearing House (ACH) to the OMNIA Partners, Public Sector designated financial institution identified in Exhibit D. Failure to provide a payment of the Administrative Fee within the time and manner specified herein shall constitute a material breach of this Agreement and if not cured within thirty (30) days of written notice to Supplier shall be deemed a cause for termination of the Master Agreement, at Principal Procurement Agency’s sole discretion, and/or this Agreement, at OMNIA Partners, Public Sector’s sole discretion. All Administrative Fees not paid when due shall bear interest at a rate equal to the lesser of one and one-half percent (1 1/2%) per month or the maximum rate permitted by law until paid in full. 15.Supplier shall maintain an accounting of all purchases made by Participating Public Agencies under the Master Agreement. OMNIA Partners, Public Sector, or its designee, in OMNIA Partners, Public Sector’s sole discretion, reserves the right to compare Participating Public Agency records with Contract Sales Reports submitted by Supplier for a period of four (4) years from the date OMNIA Partners, Public Sector receives such report. In addition, OMNIA Partners, Public Sector may engage a third party to conduct an independent audit of Supplier’s monthly reports. In the event of such an audit, Supplier shall provide all materials reasonably requested relating to such audit by OMNIA Partners, Public Sector at the location designated by OMNIA Partners, Public Sector. In the event an underreporting of Contract Sales and a resulting underpayment of Administrative Fees is revealed, OMNIA Partners, Public Sector will notify the Supplier in writing. Supplier will have thirty (30) days from the date of such notice to resolve the discrepancy to OMNIA Partners, Public Sector’s reasonable satisfaction, including payment of any Administrative Fees due and owing, together with interest thereon in accordance with Section 13, and reimbursement of OMNIA Partners, Public Sector’s costs and expenses related to such audit. GENERAL PROVISIONS 16.This Agreement, the Master Agreement and the exhibits referenced herein supersede any and all other agreements, either oral or in writing, between the parties hereto with respect to the subject matter hereto and no other agreement, statement, or promise relating to the subject matter of this Agreement which is not contained or incorporated herein shall be valid or binding. In the event of any conflict between the provisions of this Agreement and the Master Agreement, as between OMNIA Partners, Public Sector and Supplier, the provisions of this Agreement shall prevail. 17.If any action at law or in equity is brought to enforce or interpret the provisions of this Agreement or to recover any Administrative Fee and accrued interest, the prevailing party shall be entitled to reasonable attorney’s fees and costs in addition to any other relief to which it may be entitled. 18.This Agreement and OMNIA Partners, Public Sector’s rights and obligations hereunder may be assigned at OMNIA Partners, Public Sector’s sole discretion to an affiliate of OMNIA Partners, Public Sector, any purchaser of any or all or substantially all of the assets of 46 of 369 OMNIA Partners, Public Sector, or the successor entity as a result of a merger, reorganization, consolidation, conversion or change of control, whether by operation of law or otherwise. Supplier may not assign its obligations hereunder without the prior written consent of OMNIA Partners, Public Sector. 19.All written communications given hereunder shall be delivered by first-class mail, postage prepaid, or overnight delivery on receipt to the addresses as set forth below. A.OMNIA Partners, Public Sector: OMNIA Partners, Public Sector Attn: President 840 Crescent Centre Drive Suite 600 Franklin, TN 37067 B.Supplier: ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ 20.If any provision of this Agreement shall be deemed to be, or shall in fact be, illegal, inoperative or unenforceable, the same shall not affect any other provision or provisions herein contained or render the same invalid, inoperative or unenforceable to any extent whatever, and this Agreement will be construed by limiting or invalidating such provision to the minimum extent necessary to make such provision valid, legal and enforceable. 21.This Agreement may not be amended, changed, modified, or altered without the prior written consent of the parties hereto, and no provision of this Agreement may be discharged or waived, except by a writing signed by the parties. A waiver of any particular provision will not be deemed a waiver of any other provision, nor will a waiver given on one occasion be deemed to apply to any other occasion. 22.This Agreement shall inure to the benefit of and shall be binding upon OMNIA Partners, Public Sector, the Supplier and any respective successor and assign thereto; subject, however, to the limitations contained herein. 23.This Agreement will be construed under and governed by the laws of the State of Delaware, excluding its conflicts of law provisions and any action arising out of or related to this Agreement shall be commenced solely and exclusively in the state or federal courts in Williamson County Tennessee. 24.This Agreement may be executed in counterparts, each of which is an original but all of which, together, shall constitute but one and the same instrument. The exchange of copies of this Agreement and of signature pages by facsimile, or by .pdf or similar electronic transmission, will constitute effective execution and delivery of this Agreement as to the parties and may be used in lieu of the original Agreement for all purposes. Signatures of the parties transmitted by facsimile, or by .pdf or similar electronic transmission, will be deemed to be their original signatures for any purpose whatsoever. 47 of 369 [INSERT SUPPLIER ENTITY NAME] NATIONAL INTERGOVERNMENTAL PURCHASING ALLIANCE COMPANY, A DELAWARE CORPORATION D/B/A OMNIA PARTNERS, PUBLIC SECTOR Signature Signature Sarah Vavra Name Name Sr. Vice President, Public Sector Contracting Title Title Date Date 48 of 369 EXHIBIT C MASTER INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATIVE PURCHASING AGREEMENT, EXAMPLE MASTER INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATIVE PURCHASING AGREEMENT This Master Intergovernmental Cooperative Purchasing Agreement (this “Agreement”) is entered into by and between those certain government agencies that execute a Principal Procurement Agency Certificate (“Principal Procurement Agencies”) with National Intergovernmental Purchasing Alliance Company, a Delaware corporation d/b/a OMNIA Partners, Public Sector and/or Communities Program Management, LLC, a California limited liability company d/b/a U.S. Communities (collectively, “OMNIA Partners, Public Sector”) to be appended and made a part hereof and such other public agencies (“Participating Public Agencies”) who register to participate in the cooperative purchasing programs administered by OMNIA Partners, Public Sector and its affiliates and subsidiaries (collectively, the “OMNIA Partners Parties”) by either registering on the OMNIA Partners, Public Sector website (www.omniapartners.com/publicsector or any successor website), or by executing a copy of this Agreement. RECITALS WHEREAS, after a competitive solicitation and selection process by Principal Procurement Agencies, in compliance with their own policies, procedures, rules and regulations, a number of suppliers have entered into “Master Agreements” (herein so called) to provide a variety of goods, products and services (“Products”) to the applicable Principal Procurement Agency and the Participating Public Agencies; WHEREAS, Master Agreements are made available by Principal Procurement Agencies through the OMNIA Partners Parties and provide that Participating Public Agencies may purchase Products on the same terms, conditions and pricing as the Principal Procurement Agency, subject to any applicable federal and/or local purchasing ordinances and the laws of the State of purchase; and WHEREAS, in addition to Master Agreements, the OMNIA Partners Parties may from time to time offer Participating Public Agencies the opportunity to acquire Products through other group purchasing agreements. NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises contained in this Agreement, and of the mutual benefits to result, the parties hereby agree as follows: 1.Each party will facilitate the cooperative procurement of Products. 2. The Participating Public Agencies shall procure Products in accordance with and subject to the relevant federal, state and local statutes, ordinances, rules and regulations that govern Participating Public Agency’s procurement practices. The Participating Public Agencies hereby acknowledge and agree that it is the intent of the parties that all provisions of this Agreement and that Principal Procurement Agencies’ participation in the program described herein comply with all applicable laws, including but not limited to the requirements of 42 C.F.R. § 1001.952(h), as may be amended from time to time. The Participating Public Agencies further acknowledge and agree that they are solely responsible for their compliance with all applicable “safe harbor” regulations, including but not limited to any and all obligations to fully and accurately report discounts and incentives. 49 of 369 3.The Participating Public Agency represents and warrants that the Participating Public Agency is not a hospital or other healthcare provider and is not purchasing Products on behalf of a hospital or healthcare provider. 4.The cooperative use of Master Agreements shall be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Master Agreements, except as modification of those terms and conditions is otherwise required by applicable federal, state or local law, policies or procedures. 5.The Principal Procurement Agencies will make available, upon reasonable request, Master Agreement information which may assist in improving the procurement of Products by the Participating Public Agencies. 6.The Participating Public Agency agrees the OMNIA Partners Parties may provide access to group purchasing organization (“GPO”) agreements directly or indirectly by enrolling the Participating Public Agency in another GPO’s purchasing program provided the purchase of Products through the OMNIA Partners Parties or any other GPO shall be at the Participating Public Agency’s sole discretion. 7.The Participating Public Agencies (each a “Procuring Party”) that procure Products through any Master Agreement or GPO Product supply agreement (each a “GPO Contract”) will make timely payments to the distributor, manufacturer or other vendor (collectively, “Supplier”) for Products received in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Master Agreement or GPO Contract, as applicable. Payment for Products and inspections and acceptance of Products ordered by the Procuring Party shall be the exclusive obligation of such Procuring Party. Disputes between Procuring Party and any Supplier shall be resolved in accordance with the law and venue rules of the State of purchase unless otherwise agreed to by the Procuring Party and Supplier. 8.The Procuring Party shall not use this Agreement as a method for obtaining additional concessions or reduced prices for purchase of similar products or services outside of the Master Agreement. Master Agreements may be structured with not-to-exceed pricing, in which cases the Supplier may offer the Procuring Party and the Procuring Party may accept lower pricing or additional concessions for purchase of Products through a Master Agreement. 9.The Procuring Party shall be responsible for the ordering of Products under this Agreement. A non-procuring party shall not be liable in any fashion for any violation by a Procuring Party, and, to the extent permitted by applicable law, the Procuring Party shall hold non-procuring party harmless from any liability that may arise from the acts or omissions of the Procuring Party. 10.WITHOUT LIMITING THE GENERALITY OF THE FOREGOING, THE OMNIA PARTNERS PARTIES EXPRESSLY DISCLAIM ALL EXPRESS OR IMPLIED REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES REGARDING ANY PRODUCT, MASTER AGREEMENT AND GPO CONTRACT. THE OMNIA PARTNERS PARTIES SHALL NOT BE LIABLE IN ANY WAY FOR ANY SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, EXEMPLARY, PUNITIVE, OR RELIANCE DAMAGES, EVEN IF THE OMNIA PARTNERS PARTIES ARE ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. FURTHER, THE PROCURING PARTY ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES 50 of 369 THAT THE OMNIA PARTNERS PARTIES SHALL HAVE NO LIABILITY FOR ANY ACT OR OMISSION BY A SUPPLIER OR OTHER PARTY UNDER A MASTER AGREEMENT OR GPO CONTRACT. 11.This Agreement shall remain in effect until termination by either party giving thirty (30) days’ written notice to the other party. The provisions of Paragraphs 6 - 10 hereof shall survive any such termination. 12.This Agreement shall take effect upon (i) execution of the Principal Procurement Agency Certificate, or (ii) registration on the OMNIA Partners, Public Sector website or the execution of this Agreement by a Participating Public Agency, as applicable. NATIONAL INTERGOVERNMENTAL PURCHASING ALLIANCE COMPANY, A DELAWARE CORPORATION D/B/A OMNIA PARTNERS, PUBLIC SECTOR AND/OR COMMUNITIES PROGRAM MANAGEMENT, LLC, A CALIFORNIA LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY D/B/A U.S. COMMUNITIES Authorized Signature Signature Sarah E. Vavra Name Name Sr. Vice President, Public Sector Contracting Title and Agency Name Title Date Date 51 of 369 EXHIBIT D PRINCIPAL PROCUREMENT AGENCY CERTIFICATE, EXAMPLE PRINCIPAL PROCUREMENT AGENCY CERTIFICATE In its capacity as a Principal Procurement Agency (as defined below) for National Intergovernmental Purchasing Alliance Company, a Delaware corporation d/b/a OMNIA Partners, Public Sector (“OMNIA Partners, Public Sector”), [NAME OF PPA] agrees to pursue Master Agreements for Products as specified in the attached Exhibits to this Principal Procurement Agency Certificate. I hereby acknowledge, in my capacity as _____________ of and on behalf of [NAME OF PPA] (“Principal Procurement Agency”), that I have read and hereby agree to the general terms and conditions set forth in the attached Master Intergovernmental Cooperative Purchasing Agreement regulating the use of the Master Agreements and purchase of Products that from time to time are made available by Principal Procurement Agencies to Participating Public Agencies nationwide through OMNIA Partners, Public Sector. I understand that the purchase of one or more Products under the provisions of the Master Intergovernmental Cooperative Purchasing Agreement is at the sole and complete discretion of the Participating Public Agency. Authorized Signature, [PRINCIPAL PROCUREMENT AGENCY] Signature Name Title Date 52 of 369 EXHIBIT E CONTRACT SALES REPORTING TEMPLATE 53 of 369 EXHIBIT F FEDERAL FUNDS CERTIFICATIONS FEDERAL CERTIFICATIONS ADDENDUM FOR AGREEMENT FUNDED BY U.S. FEDERAL GRANT TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: Participating Agencies may elect to use federal funds to purchase under the Master Agreement. This form should be completed and returned. DEFINITIONS Contract means a legal instrument by which a non–Federal entity purchases property or services needed to carry out the project or program under a Federal award. The term as used in this part does not include a legal instrument, even if the non–Federal entity considers it a contract, when the substance of the transaction meets the definition of a Federal award or subaward Contractor means an entity that receives a contract as defined in Contract. Cooperative agreement means a legal instrument of financial assistance between a Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity and a non–Federal entity that, consistent with 31 U.S.C. 6302–6305: (a) Is used to enter into a relationship the principal purpose of which is to transfer anything of value from the Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity to the non–Federal entity to carry out a public purpose authorized by a law of the United States (see 31 U.S.C. 6101(3)); and not to acquire property or services for the Federal government or pass-through entity's direct benefit or use; (b) Is distinguished from a grant in that it provides for substantial involvement between the Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity and the non–Federal entity in carrying out the activity contemplated by the Federal award. (c) The term does not include: (1) A cooperative research and development agreement as defined in 15 U.S.C. 3710a; or (2) An agreement that provides only: (i) Direct United States Government cash assistance to an individual; (ii) A subsidy; (iii) A loan; (iv) A loan guarantee; or (v) Insurance. Federal awarding agency means the Federal agency that provides a Federal award directly to a non–Federal entity Federal award has the meaning, depending on the context, in either paragraph (a) or (b) of this section: (a)(1) The Federal financial assistance that a non–Federal entity receives directly from a Federal awarding agency or indirectly from a pass-through entity, as described in § 200.101 Applicability; or (2) The cost-reimbursement contract under the Federal Acquisition Regulations that a non–Federal entity receives directly from a Federal awarding agency or indirectly from a pass-through entity, as described in § 200.101 Applicability. (b) The instrument setting forth the terms and conditions. The instrument is the grant agreement, cooperative agreement, other agreement for assistance covered in paragraph (b) of § 200.40 Federal financial assistance, or the cost- reimbursement contract awarded under the Federal Acquisition Regulations. (c) Federal award does not include other contracts that a Federal agency uses to buy goods or services from a contractor or a contract to operate Federal government owned, contractor operated facilities (GOCOs). (d) See also definitions of Federal financial assistance, grant agreement, and cooperative agreement. Non–Federal entity means a state, local government, Indian tribe, institution of higher education (IHE), or nonprofit organization that carries out a Federal award as a recipient or subrecipient. Nonprofit organization means any corporation, trust, association, cooperative, or other organization, not including IHEs, that: (a) Is operated primarily for scientific, educational, service, charitable, or similar purposes in the public interest; (b) Is not organized primarily for profit; and 54 of 369 (c) Uses net proceeds to maintain, improve, or expand the operations of the organization. Obligations means, when used in connection with a non–Federal entity's utilization of funds under a Federal award, orders placed for property and services, contracts and subawards made, and similar transactions during a given period that require payment by the non–Federal entity during the same or a future period. Pass-through entity means a non–Federal entity that provides a subaward to a subrecipient to carry out part of a Federal program. Recipient means a non–Federal entity that receives a Federal award directly from a Federal awarding agency to carry out an activity under a Federal program. The term recipient does not include subrecipients. Simplified acquisition threshold means the dollar amount below which a non–Federal entity may purchase property or services using small purchase methods. Non–Federal entities adopt small purchase procedures in order to expedite the purchase of items costing less than the simplified acquisition threshold. The simplified acquisition threshold is set by the Federal Acquisition Regulation at 48 CFR Subpart 2.1 (Definitions) and in accordance with 41 U.S.C. 1908. As of the publication of this part, the simplified acquisition threshold is $150,000, but this threshold is periodically adjusted for inflation. (Also see definition of § 200.67 Micro-purchase.) Subaward means an award provided by a pass-through entity to a subrecipient for the subrecipient to carry out part of a Federal award received by the pass-through entity. It does not include payments to a contractor or payments to an individual that is a beneficiary of a Federal program. A subaward may be provided through any form of legal agreement, including an agreement that the pass-through entity considers a contract. Subrecipient means a non–Federal entity that receives a subaward from a pass-through entity to carry out part of a Federal program; but does not include an individual that is a beneficiary of such program. A subrecipient may also be a recipient of other Federal awards directly from a Federal awarding agency. Termination means the ending of a Federal award, in whole or in part at any time prior to the planned end of period of performance. The following certifications and provisions may be required and apply when Participating Agency expends federal funds for any purchase resulting from this procurement process. Pursuant to 2 C.F.R. § 200.326, all contracts, including small purchases, awarded by the Participating Agency and the Participating Agency’s subcontractors shall contain the procurement provisions of Appendix II to Part 200, as applicable. APPENDIX II TO 2 CFR PART 2 00 (A) Contracts for more than the simplified acquisition threshold currently set at $150,000, which is the inflation adjusted amount determined by the Civilian Agency Acquisition Council and the Defense Acquisition Regulations Council (Councils) as authorized by 41 U.S.C. 1908, must address administrative, contractual, or legal remedies in instances where contractors violate or breach contract terms, and provide for such sanctions and penalties as appropriate. Pursuant to Federal Rule (A) above, when a Participating Agency expends federal funds, the Participating Agency reserves all rights and privileges under the applicable laws and regulations with respect to this procurement in the event of breach of contract by either party. Does offeror agree? YES Initials of Authorized Representative of offeror (B)Termination for cause and for convenience by the grantee or subgrantee including the manner by which it will beeffected and the basis for settlement. (All contracts in excess of $10,000) Pursuant to Federal Rule (B) above, when a Participating Agency expends federal funds, the Participating Agency reserves the right to immediately terminate any agreement in excess of $10,000 resulting from this procurement process in the event of a breach or default of the agreement by Offeror as detailed in the terms of the contract. Does offeror agree? YES Initials of Authorized Representative of offeror (C)Equal Employment Opportunity. Except as otherwise provided under 41 CFR Part 60, all contracts that meet thedefinition of “federally assisted construction contract” in 41 CFR Part 60-1.3 must include the equal opportunity clause provided under 41 CFR 60-1.4(b), in accordance with Executive Order 11246, “Equal Employment Opportunity” (30 55 of 369 CFR 12319, 12935, 3 CFR Part, 1964-1965 Comp., p. 339), as amended by Executive Order 11375, “Amending Executive Order 11246 Relating to Equal Employment Opportunity,” and implementing regulations at 41 CFR part 60, “Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs, Equal Employment Opportunity, Department of Labor.” Pursuant to Federal Rule (C) above, when a Participating Agency expends federal funds on any federally assisted construction contract, the equal opportunity clause is incorporated by reference herein. Does offeror agree to abide by the above? YES Initials of Authorized Representative of offeror (D)Davis-Bacon Act, as amended (40 U.S.C. 3141-3148). When required by Federal program legislation, all primeconstruction contracts in excess of $2,000 awarded by non-Federal entities must include a provision for compliance with the Davis-Bacon Act (40 U.S.C. 3141-3144, and 3146-3148) as supplemented by Department of Labor regulations(29 CFR Part 5, “Labor Standards Provisions Applicable to Contracts Covering Federally Financed and Assisted Construction”). In accordance with the statute, contractors must be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanicsat a rate not less than the prevailing wages specified in a wage determination made by the Secretary of Labor. In addition, contractors must be required to pay wages not less than once a week. The non-Federal entity must place a copy of the current prevailing wage determination issued by the Department of Labor in each solicitation. The decisionto award a contract or subcontract must be conditioned upon the acceptance of the wage determination. The non - Federal entity must report all suspected or reported violations to the Federal awarding agency. The contracts must also include a provision for compliance with the Copeland “Anti-Kickback” Act (40 U.S.C. 3145), as supplemented by Department of Labor regulations (29 CFR Part 3, “Contractors and Subcontractors on Public Building or Public Work Financed in Whole or in Part by Loans or Grants from the United States”). The Act provides that each contractor orsubrecipient must be prohibited from inducing, by any means, any person employed in the construction, completion, or repair of public work, to give up any part of the compensation to which he or she is otherwise entitled. The non -Federal entity must report all suspected or reported violations to the Federal awarding agency. Pursuant to Federal Rule (D) above, when a Participating Agency expends federal funds during the term of an award for all contracts and subgrants for construction or repair, offeror will be in compliance with all applicable Davis-Bacon Act provisions. Does offeror agree? YES Initials of Authorized Representative of offeror (E)Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act (40 U.S.C. 3701-3708). Where applicable, all contracts awarded bythe non-Federal entity in excess of $100,000 that involve the employment of mechanics or laborers must include aprovision for compliance with 40 U.S.C. 3702 and 3704, as supplemented by Department of Labor regulations (29 CFR Part 5). Under 40 U.S.C. 3702 of the Act, each contractor must be required to compute the wages of every mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work week of 40 hours. Work in excess of the standard work week is permissibleprovided that the worker is compensated at a rate of not less than one and a half times the basic rate of pay for all hours worked in excess of 40 hours in the work week. The requirements of 40 U.S.C. 3704 are applicable to constructionwork and provide that no laborer or mechanic must be required to work in surroundings or under working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous or dangerous. These requirements do not apply to the purchases of supplies or materials or articles ordinarily available on the open market, or contracts for transportation or transmission ofintelligence. Pursuant to Federal Rule (E) above, when a Participating Agency expends federal funds, offeror certifies that offeror will be in compliance with all applicable provisions of the Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act during the term of an award for all contracts by Participating Agency resulting from this procurement process. Does offeror agree? YES Initials of Authorized Representative of offeror (F)Rights to Inventions Made Under a Contract or Agreement. If the Federal award meets the definition of “fundingagreement” under 37 CFR §401.2 (a) and the recipient or subrecipient wishes to enter into a contract with a smallbusiness firm or nonprofit organization regarding the substitution of parties, assignment or performance of experimental, developmental, or research work under that “funding agreement,” the recipient or subrecipient mustcomply with the requirements of 37 CFR Part 401, “Rights to Inventions Made by Nonprofit Organizations and SmallBusiness Firms Under Government Grants, Contracts and Cooperative Agreements,” and any implementing regulations issued by the awarding agency. Pursuant to Federal Rule (F) above, when federal funds are expended by Participating Agency, the offeror certifies that during the term of an award for all contracts by Participating Agency resulting from this procurement process, the offeror agrees to comply with all applicable requirements as referenced in Federal Rule (F) above. Does offeror agree? YES Initials of Authorized Representative of offeror 56 of 369 (G)Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7401-7671q.) and the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1251-1387), asamended—Contracts and subgrants of amounts in excess of $150,000 must contain a provision that requires the non - Federal award to agree to comply with all applicable standards, orders or regulations issued pursuant to the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7401-7671q) and the Federal Water Pollution Control Act as amended (33 U.S.C. 1251- 1387). Violations must be reported to the Federal awarding agency and the Regional Office of the Environmental Protection Agency(EPA) Pursuant to Federal Rule (G) above, when federal funds are expended by Participating Agency, the offeror certifies that during the term of an award for all contracts by Participating Agency member resulting from this procurement process, the offeror agrees to comply with all applicable requirements as referenced in Federal Rule (G) above. Does offeror agree? YES Initials of Authorized Representative of offeror (H) Debarment and Suspension (Executive Orders 12549 and 12689)—A contract award (see 2 CFR 180.220) must not be made to parties listed on the government wide exclusions in the System for Award Management (SAM), in accordancewith the Executive Office of the President Office of Management and Budget (OMB) guidelines at 2 CFR 180 that implement Executive Orders 12549 (3 CFR part 1986 Comp., p. 189) and 12689 (3 CFR part 1989 Comp., p. 235), “Debarment and Suspension.” SAM Exclusions contains the names of parties debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded by agencies, as well as parties declared ineligible under statutory or regulatory authority other than ExecutiveOrder 12549. Pursuant to Federal Rule (H) above, when federal funds are expended by Participating Agency, the offeror certifies that during the term of an award for all contracts by Participating Agency resulting from this procurement process, the offeror certifies that neither it nor its principals is presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible, or voluntarily excluded from participation by any federal department or agency. If at any time during the term of an award the offeror or its principals becomes debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible, or voluntarily excluded from participation by any federal department or agency, the offeror will notify the Participating Agency. Does offeror agree? YES Initials of Authorized Representative of offeror (I)Byrd Anti-Lobbying Amendment (31 U.S.C. 1352)—Contractors that apply or bid for an award exceeding $100,000must file the required certification. Each tier certifies to the tier above that it will not and has not used Federalappropriated funds to pay any person or organization for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, a member of Congress, officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a member of Congress in connection with obtaining any Federal contract, grant or any other award covered by 31 U.S.C. 1352. Each tier mustalso disclose any lobbying with non-Federal funds that takes place in connection with obtaining any Federal award. Such disclosures are forwarded from tier to tier up to the non-Federal award. Pursuant to Federal Rule (I) above, when federal funds are expended by Participating Agency, the offeror certifies that during the term and after the awarded term of an award for all contracts by Participating Agency resulting from this procurement process, the offeror certifies that it is in compliance with all applicable provisions of the Byrd Anti-Lobbying Amendment (31 U.S.C. 1352). The undersigned further certifies that: (1)No Federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid for on behalf of the undersigned, to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection with the awarding of a Federal contract, the making of a Federal grant, the making of a Federal loan, the entering into a cooperative agreement, and the extension, continuation, renewal, amendment, or modification of a Federal contract, grant, loan, or cooperative agreement. (2)If any funds other than Federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection with this Federal grant or cooperative agreement, the undersigned shall complete and submit Standard Form-LLL, “Disclosure Form to Report Lobbying”, in accordance with its instructions. (3)The undersigned shall require that the language of this certification be included in the award documents for all covered sub-awards exceeding $100,000 in Federal funds at all appropriate tiers and that all subrecipients shall certify and disclose accordingly. Does offeror agree? YES Initials of Authorized Representative of offeror RECORD RETENTION REQUIREMENTS FOR CONTRACTS INVOLVING FEDERAL FUNDS When federal funds are expended by Participating Agency for any contract resulting from this procurement process, offeror certifies that it will comply with the record retention requirements detailed in 2 CFR § 200.333. The offeror further certifies that 57 of 369 offeror will retain all records as required by 2 CFR § 200.333 for a period of three years after grantees or subgrantees submit final expenditure reports or quarterly or annual financial reports, as applicable, and all other pending matters are closed. Does offeror agree? YES Initials of Authorized Representative of offeror CERTIFICATION OF COMPLIANCE WITH THE ENERGY POLICY AND CONSERVATION ACT When Participating Agency expends federal funds for any contract resulting from this procurement process, offeror certifies that it will comply with the mandatory standards and policies relating to energy efficiency which are contained in the state energy conservation plan issued in compliance with the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (42 U.S.C. 6321 et seq.; 49 C.F.R. Part 18). Does offeror agree? YES Initials of Authorized Representative of offeror CERTIFICATION OF COMPLIANCE WITH BUY AMERICA PROVISIONS To the extent purchases are made with Federal Highway Administration, Federal Railroad Administration, or Federal Transit Administration funds, offeror certifies that its products comply with all applicable provisions of the Buy America Act and agrees to provide such certification or applicable waiver with respect to specific products to any Participating Agency upon request. Purchases made in accordance with the Buy America Act must still follow the applicable procurement rules calling for free and open competition. Does offeror agree? YES Initials of Authorized Representative of offeror CERTIFICATION OF ACCESS TO RECORDS – 2 C.F.R. § 200.336 Offeror agrees that the Inspector General of the Agency or any of their duly authorized representatives shall have access to any documents, papers, or other records of offeror that are pertinent to offeror’s discharge of its obligations under the Contract for the purpose of making audits, examinations, excerpts, and transcriptions. The right also includes timely and reasonable access to offeror’s personnel for the purpose of interview and discussion relating to such documents. Does offeror agree? YES Initials of Authorized Representative of offeror CERTIFICATION OF APPLICABILITY TO SUBCONTRACTORS Offeror agrees that all contracts it awards pursuant to the Contract shall be bound by the foregoing terms and conditions. Does offeror agree? YES Initials of Authorized Representative of offeror Offeror agrees to comply with all federal, state, and local laws, rules, regulations and ordinances, as applicable. It is further acknowledged that offeror certifies compliance with all provisions, laws, acts, regulations, etc. as specifically noted above. Offeror’s Name: ____________________________________________________________________________________________ Address, City, State, and Zip Code: _____________________________________________________________________________ Phone Number:___________________________________ Fax Number: ______________________________________ Printed Name and Title of Authorized Representative:______________________________________________________________________ Email Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________________ Signature of Authorized Representative: ____________________________________Date: _____________________________ 58 of 369 EXHIBIT G NEW JERSEY BUSINESS COMPLIANCE NEW JERSEY BUSINESS COMPLIANCE Suppliers intending to do business in the State of New Jersey must comply with policies and procedures required under New Jersey statues. All offerors submitting proposals must complete the following forms specific to the State of New Jersey. Completed forms should be submitted with the offeror’s response to the RFP. Failure to complete the New Jersey packet will impact OMNIA Partners, Public Sector’s ability to promote the Master Agreement in the State of New Jersey. DOC #1 Ownership Disclosure Form DOC #2 Non-Collusion Affidavit DOC #3 Affirmative Action Affidavit DOC #4 Political Contribution Disclosure Form DOC #5 Stockholder Disclosure Certification DOC #6 Certification of Non-Involvement in Prohibited Activities in Iran DOC #7 New Jersey Business Registration Certificate New Jersey suppliers are required to comply with the following New Jersey statutes when applicable: •all anti-discrimination laws, including those contained in N.J.S.A. 10:2-1 through N.J.S.A. 10:2-14, N.J.S.A. 10:5-1, and N.J.S.A. 10:5-31 through 10:5-38; •Prevailing Wage Act, N.J.S.A. 34:11-56.26, for all contracts within the contemplation of the Act; •Public Works Contractor Registration Act, N.J.S.A. 34:11-56.26; and •Bid and Performance Security, as required by the applicable municipal or state statutes. 59 of 369 DOC #1 OWNERSHIP DISCLOSURE FORM (N.J.S. 52:25-24.2) Pursuant to the requirements of P.L. 1999, Chapter 440 effective April 17, 2000 (Local Public Contracts Law), the offeror shall complete the form attached to these specifications listing the persons owning 10 percent (10%) or more of the firm presenting the proposal. Company Name: Street: City, State, Zip Code: Complete as appropriate: I _______________________________________, certify that I am the sole owner of ____________________________________, that there are no partners and the business is not incorporated, and the provisions of N.J.S. 52:25-24.2 do not apply. OR: I _______________________________________, a partner in___________________________, do hereby certify that the following is a list of all individual partners who own a 10% or greater interest therein. I further certify that if one (1) or more of the partners is itself a corporation or partnership, there is also set forth the names and addresses of the stockholders holding 10% or more of that corporation’s stock or the individual partners owning 10% or greater interest in that partnership. OR: I _______________________________________, an authorized representative of ______________________, a corporation, do hereby certify that the following is a list of the names and addresses of all stockholders in the corporation who own 10% or more of its stock of any class. I further certify that if one (1) or more of such stockholders is itself a corporation or partnership, that there is also set forth the names and addresses of the stockholders holding 10% or more of the corporation’s stock or the individual partners owning a 10% or greater interest in that partnership. (Note: If there are no partners or stockholders owning 10% or more interest, indicate none.) Name Address Interest I further certify that the statements and information contained herein, are complete and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief. Date Authorized Signature and Title 60 of 369 DOC #2 NON-COLLUSION AFFIDAVIT Company Name: ________________________________________ Street: ________________________________________________ City, State, Zip Code:____________________________________ State of ________________________________________________ County of ______________________________________________ I, of the_______________________________________________ Name City in the County of ____________________________, State of _______________________________ of full age, being duly sworn according to law on my oath depose and say that: I am the _________________________of the firm of _____________________________________ Title Company Name the Offeror making the Proposal for the goods, services or public work specified under the attached proposal, and that I executed the said proposal with full authority to do so; that said Offeror has not directly or indirectly entered into any agreement, participated in any collusion, or otherwise taken any action in restraint of free, competitive bidding in connection with the above proposal, and that all statements contained in said proposal and in this affidavit are true and correct, and made with full knowledge that relies upon the truth of the statements contained in said proposal and in the statements contained in this affidavit in awarding the contract for the said goods, services or public work. I further warrant that no person or selling agency has been employed or retained to solicit or secure such contract upon an agreement or understanding for a commission, percentage, brokerage or contingent fee, except bona fide employees or bona fide established commercial or selling agencies maintained by Company Name Authorized Signature & Title Subscribed and sworn before me this ______ day of ______________, 20____ __________________________________________ Notary Public of ______________________ My commission expires ______________ , 20____ SEAL DOC #3 61 of 369 AFF IRMATIVE ACTION AFFIDAVIT (P.L. 1975, C.127) Company Name: Street: City, State, Zip Code: Proposal Certification: Indicate below company’s compliance with New Jersey Affirmative Action regulations. Company’s proposal will be accepted even if company is not in compliance at this time. No contract and/or purchase order may be issued, however, until all Affirmative Action requirements are met. Required Affirmative Action Evidence: Procurement, Professional & Service Contracts (Exhibit A) Vendors must submit with proposal: 1.A photo copy of their Federal Letter of Affirmative Action Plan Approval OR 2.A photo copy of their Certificate of Employee Information Report OR 3.A complete Affirmative Action Employee Information Report (AA302) __________ Public Work – Over $50,000 Total Project Cost: A.No approved Federal or New Jersey Affirmative Action Plan. We will complete Report Form AA201-A upon receipt from the B.Approved Federal or New Jersey Plan – certificate enclosed I further certify that the statements and information contained herein, are complete and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief. ____________________ _________________________________ Date Authorized Signature and Title 62 of 369 DOC #3, continued P.L. 1995, c. 127 (N.J.A.C. 17:27) MANDATORY AFFIRMATIVE ACTION LANGUAGE PROCUREMENT, PROFESSIONAL AND SERVICE CONTRACTS During the performance of this contract, the contractor agrees as follows: The contractor or subcontractor, where applicable, will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of age, race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, sex, affectional or sexual orientation. The contractor will take affirmative action to ensure that such applicants are recruited and employed, and that employees are treated during employment, without regard to their age, race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, sex, affectional or sexual orientation. Such action shall include, but not be limited to the following: employment, upgrading, demotion, or transfer; recruitment or recruitment advertising; layoff or termination; rates of pay or other forms of compensation; and selection for training, including apprenticeship. The contractor agrees to post in conspicuous places, available to employees and applicants for employment, notices to be provided by the Public Agency Compliance Officer setting forth provisions of this non-discrimination clause. The contractor or subcontractor, where applicable will, in all solicitations or advertisement for employees placed by or on behalf of the contractor, state that all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, sex, affectional or sexual orientation. The contractor or subcontractor, where applicable, will send to each labor union or representative of workers with which it has a collective bargaining agreement or other contract or understanding, a notice, to be provided by the agency contracting officer advising the labor union or workers' representative of the contractor's commitments under this act and shall post copies of the notice in conspicuous places available to employees and applicants for employment. The contractor or subcontractor, where applicable, agrees to comply with any regulations promulgated by the Treasurer pursuant to P.L. 1975, c. 127, as amended and supplemented from time to time and the Americans with Disabilities Act. The contractor or subcontractor agrees to attempt in good faith to employ minority and female workers trade consistent with the applicable county employment goal prescribed by N.J.A.C. 17:27-5.2 promulgated by the Treasurer pursuant to P.L. 1975, C.127, as amended and supplemented from time to time or in accordance with a binding determination of the applicable county employment goals determined by the Affirmative Action Office pursuant to N.J.A.C. 17:27-5.2 promulgated by the Treasurer pursuant to P.L. 1975, C.127, as amended and supplemented from time to time. The contractor or subcontractor agrees to inform in writing appropriate recruitment agencies in the area, including employment agencies, placement bureaus, colleges, universities, labor unions, that it does not discriminate on the basis of age, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, sex, affectional or sexual orientation, and that it will discontinue the use of any recruitment agency which engages in direct or indirect discriminatory practices. The contractor or subcontractor agrees to revise any of it testing procedures, if necessary, to assure that all personnel testing conforms with the principles of job-related testing, as established by the statutes and court decisions of the state of New Jersey and as established by applicable Federal law and applicable Federal court decisions. The contractor or subcontractor agrees to review all procedures relating to transfer, upgrading, downgrading and lay-off to ensure that all such actions are taken without regard to age, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, sex, affectional or sexual orientation, and conform with the applicable employment goals, consistent with the statutes and court decisions of the State of New Jersey, and applicable Federal law and applicable Federal court decisions. The contractor and its subcontractors shall furnish such reports or other documents to the Affirmative Action Office as may be requested by the office from time to time in order to carry out the purposes of these 63 of 369 regulations, and public agencies shall furnish such information as may be requested by the Affirmative Action Office for conducting a compliance investigation pursuant to Subchapter 10 of the Administrative Code (NJAC 17:27). ________________________________________________ Signature of Procurement Agent 64 of 369 DOC #4 C. 271 POLITICAL CONTRIBUTION DISCLOSURE FORM Public Agency Instructions This page provides guidance to public agencies entering into contracts with business entities that are required to file Political Contribution Disclosure forms with the agency. It is not intended to be provided to contractors. What follows are instructions on the use of form local units can provide to contractors that are required to disclose political contributions pursuant to N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.26 (P.L. 2005, c. 271, s.2). Additional information on the process is available in Local Finance Notice 2006-1 (http://www.nj.gov/dca/divisions/dlgs/resources/lfns 2006.html). Please refer back to these instructions for the appropriate links, as the Local Finance Notices include links that are no longer operational. 1.The disclosure is required for all contracts in excess of $17,500 that are not awarded pursuant to a “fair and open” process (N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.7). 2.Due to the potential length of some contractor submissions, the public agency should consider allowing data to be submitted in electronic form (i.e., spreadsheet, pdf file, etc.). Submissions must be kept with the contract documents or in an appropriate computer file and be available for public access. The form is worded to accept this alternate submission. The text should be amended if electronic submission will not be allowed. 3.The submission must be received from the contractor and on file at least 10 days prior to award of the contract. Resolutions of award should reflect that the disclosure has been received and is on file. 4.The contractor must disclose contributions made to candidate and party committees covering a wide range of public agencies, including all public agencies that have elected officials in the county of the public agency, state legislative positions, and various state entities. The Division of Local Government Services recommends that contractors be provided a list of the affected agencies. This will assist contractors in determining the campaign and political committees of the officials and candidates affected by the disclosure. a.The Division has prepared model disclosure forms for each county. They can be downloaded from the “County PCD Forms” link on the Pay-to-Play web site at http://www nj.gov/dca/divisions/dlgs/programs/lpcl html#12. They will be updated from time-to-time as necessary. b.A public agency using these forms should edit them to properly reflect the correct legislative district(s). As the forms are county-based, they list all legislative districts in each county. Districts that do not represent the public agency should be removed from the lists. c.Some contractors may find it easier to provide a single list that covers all contributions, regardless of the county. These submissions are appropriate and should be accepted. d.The form may be used “as-is”, subject to edits as described herein. e.The “Contractor Instructions” sheet is intended to be provided with the form. It is recommended that the Instructions and the form be printed on the same piece of paper. The form notes that the Instructions are printed on the back of the form; where that is not the case, the text should be edited accordingly. f.The form is a Word document and can be edited to meet local needs, and posted for download on web sites, used as an e-mail attachment, or provided as a printed document. 5.It is recommended that the contractor also complete a “Stockholder Disclosure Certification.” This will assist the local unit in its obligation to ensure that contractor did not make any prohibited contributions to the committees listed on the Business Entity Disclosure Certification in the 12 months prior to the contract (See Local Finance Notice 2006-7 for additional information on this obligation at http://www.nj.gov/dca/divisions/dlgs/resources/lfns 2006.html). A sample Certification form is part of this package and the instruction to complete it is included in the Contractor Instructions. NOTE: This section is not applicable to Boards of Education. 65 of 369 DOC #4, continued C.271 POLITICAL CONTRIBUTION DISCLOSURE FORM Contractor Instructions Business entities (contractors) receiving contracts from a public agency that are NOT awarded pursuant to a “fair and open” process (defined at N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.7) are subject to the provisions of P.L. 2005, c. 271, s.2 (N.J.S.A. 19:44A- 20.26). This law provides that 10 days prior to the award of such a contract, the contractor shall disclose contributions to: •any State, county, or municipal committee of a political party •any legislative leadership committee* •any continuing political committee (a k.a., political action committee) •any candidate committee of a candidate for, or holder of, an elective office: o of the public entity awarding the contract o of that county in which that public entity is located o of another public entity within that county o or of a legislative district in which that public entity is located or, when the public entity is a county, of any legislative district which includes all or part of the county The disclosure must list reportable contributions to any of the committees that exceed $300 per election cycle that were made during the 12 months prior to award of the contract. See N.J.S.A. 19:44A-8 and 19:44A-16 for more details on reportable contributions. N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.26 itemizes the parties from whom contributions must be disclosed when a business entity is not a natural person. This includes the following: •individuals with an “interest” ownership or control of more than 10% of the profits or assets of a business entity or 10% of the stock in the case of a business entity that is a corporation for profit •all principals, partners, officers, or directors of the business entity or their spouses •any subsidiaries directly or indirectly controlled by the business entity •IRS Code Section 527 New Jersey based organizations, directly or indirectly controlled by the business entity and filing as continuing political committees, (PACs). When the business entity is a natural person, “a contribution by that person’s spouse or child, residing therewith, shall be deemed to be a contribution by the business entity.” [N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.26(b)] The contributor must be listed on the disclosure. Any business entity that fails to comply with the disclosure provisions shall be subject to a fine imposed by ELEC in an amount to be determined by the Commission which may be based upon the amount that the business entity failed to report. The enclosed list of agencies is provided to assist the contractor in identifying those public agencies whose elected official and/or candidate campaign committees are affected by the disclosure requirement. It is the contractor’s responsibility to identify the specific committees to which contributions may have been made and need to be disclosed. The disclosed information may exceed the minimum requirement. The enclosed form, a content-consistent facsimile, or an electronic data file containing the required details (along with a signed cover sheet) may be used as the contractor’s submission and is disclosable to the public under the Open Public Records Act. The contractor must also complete the attached Stockholder Disclosure Certification. This will assist the agency in meeting its obligations under the law. NOTE: This section does not apply to Board of Education contracts. 66 of 369 *N.J.S.A. 19:44A-3(s): “The term "legislative leadership committee" means a committee established, authorized to be established, or designated by the President of the Senate, the Minority Leader of the Senate, the Speaker of the General Assembly or the Minority Leader of the General Assembly pursuant to section 16 of P.L.1993, c.65 (C.19:44A-10.1) for the purpose of receiving contributions and making expenditures.” 67 of 369 DOC #4, continued C. 271 POLITICAL CONTRIBUTION DISCLOSURE FORM Required Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.26 This form or its permitted facsimile must be submitted to the local unit no later than 10 days prior to the award of the contract. Part I – Vendor Information Vendor Name: Address: City: State: Zip: The undersigned being authorized to certify, hereby certifies that the submission provided herein represents compliance with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.26 and as represented by the Instructions accompanying this form. _______________________ _______________________ ________________________ Signature Printed Name Title Part II – Contribution Disclosure Disclosure requirement: Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.26 this disclosure must include all reportable political contributions (more than $300 per election cycle) over the 12 months prior to submission to the committees of the government entities listed on the form provided by the local unit.  Check here if disclosure is provided in electronic form Contributor Name Recipient Name Date Dollar Amount $ 68 of 369  Check here if the information is continued on subsequent page(s) 69 of 369 DOC #4, continued List of Agencies with Elected Officials Required for Political Contribution Disclosure N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.26 County Name: State: Governor, and Legislative Leadership Committees Legislative District #s: State Senator and two members of the General Assembly per district. County: Freeholders County Clerk Sheriff {County Executive} Surrogate Municipalities (Mayor and members of governing body, regardless of title): USERS SHOULD CREATE THEIR OWN FORM, OR DOWNLOAD FROM THE PAY TO PLAY SECTION OF THE DLGS WEBSITE A COUNTY- BASED, CUSTOMIZABLE FORM. 70 of 369 DOC #5 STOCKHOLDER DISCLOSURE CERTIFICATION Name of Business:  I certify that the list below contains the names and home addresses of all stockholders holding 10% or more of the issued and outstanding stock of the undersigned. OR  I certify that no one stockholder owns 10% or more of the issued and outstanding stock of the undersigned. Check the box that represents the type of business organization: Partnership Corporation Sole Proprietorship Limited Partnership Limited Liability Corporation Limited Liability Partnership Subchapter S Corporation Sign and notarize the form below, and, if necessary, complete the stockholder list below. Stockholders: Name: Name: Home Address: Home Address: Name: Name: Home Address: Home Address: Name: Name: Home Address: Home Address: Subscribed and sworn before me this ___ day of ___________, 2__. (Notary Public) My Commission expires: _________________________________ (Affiant) ________________________________ (Print name & title of affiant) (Corporate Seal) 71 of 369 DOC #6 Certification of Non-Involvement in Prohibited Activities in Iran Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 52:32-58, Offerors must certify that neither the Offeror, nor any of its parents, subsidiaries, and/or affiliates (as defined in N.J.S.A. 52:32 – 56(e) (3)), is listed on the Department of the Treasury’s List of Persons or Entities Engaging in Prohibited Investment Activities in Iran and that neither is involved in any of the investment activities set forth in N.J.S.A. 52:32 – 56(f). Offerors wishing to do business in New Jersey through this contract must fill out the Certification of Non-Involvement in Prohibited Activities in Iran here: http://www.state.nj.us/humanservices/dfd/info/standard/fdc/disclosure investmentact.pdf. Offerors should submit the above form completed with their proposal. 72 of 369 DOC #7 NEW JERSEY BUSINESS REGISTRATION CERTIFICATE (N.J.S.A. 52:32-44) Offerors wishing to do business in New Jersey must submit their State Division of Revenue issued Business Registration Certificate with their proposal here. Failure to do so will disqualify the Offeror from offering products or services in New Jersey through any resulting contract. http://www.state.nj.us/treasury/revenue/forms/njreg.pdf 73 of 369 EXHIBIT H ADVERTISING COMPLIANCE REQUIREMENT Pursuant to certain state notice provisions, including but not limited to Oregon Revised Statutes Chapter 279A.220, the following public agencies and political subdivisions of the referenced public agencies are eligible to register with OMNIA Partners, Public Sector and access the Master Agreement contract award made pursuant to this solicitation, and are hereby given notice of the foregoing request for proposals for purposes of complying with the procedural requirements of said statutes: Nationwide: State of Alabama State of Hawaii State of Massachusetts State of New Mexico State of South Dakota State of Alaska State of Idaho State of Michigan State of New York State of Tennessee State of Arizona State of Illinois State of Minnesota State of North Carolina State of Texas State of Arkansas State of Indiana State of Mississippi State of North Dakota State of Utah State of California State of Iowa State of Missouri State of Ohio State of Vermont State of Colorado State of Kansas State of Montana State of Oklahoma State of Virginia State of Connecticut State of Kentucky State of Nebraska State of Oregon State of Washington State of Delaware State of Louisiana State of Nevada State of Pennsylvania State of West Virginia State of Florida State of Maine State of New Hampshire State of Rhode Island State of Wisconsin State of Georgia State of Maryland State of New Jersey State of South Carolina State of Wyoming District of Columbia Lists of political subdivisions and local governments in the above referenced states / districts may be found at http://www.usa.gov/Agencies/State and Territories.shtml and https://www.usa.gov/local-governments. Certain Public Agencies and Political Subdivisions: 74 of 369 CITIES, TOWNS, VILLAGES AND BOROUGHS INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO: BAKER CITY GOLF COURSE, OR CITY OF ADAIR VILLAGE, OR CITY OF ASHLAND, OR CITY OF AUMSVILLE, OR CITY OF AURORA, OR CITY OF BAKER, OR CITY OF BATON ROUGE, LA CITY OF BEAVERTON, OR CITY OF BEND, OR CITY OF BOARDMAN, OR CITY OF BONANAZA, OR CITY OF BOSSIER CITY, LA CITY OF BROOKINGS, OR CITY OF BURNS, OR CITY OF CANBY, OR CITY OF CANYONVILLE, OR CITY OF CLATSKANIE, OR CITY OF COBURG, OR CITY OF CONDON, OR CITY OF COQUILLE, OR CITY OF CORVALLI, OR CITY OF CORVALLIS PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT, OR CITY OF COTTAGE GROVE, OR CITY OF DONALD, OR CITY OF EUGENE, OR CITY OF FOREST GROVE, OR CITY OF GOLD HILL, OR CITY OF GRANTS PASS, OR CITY OF GRESHAM, OR CITY OF HILLSBORO, OR CITY OF INDEPENDENCE, OR CITY AND COUNTY OF HONOLULU, HI CITY OF KENNER, LA CITY OF LA GRANDE, OR CITY OF LAFAYETTE, LA CITY OF LAKE CHARLES, OR CITY OF LEBANON, OR CITY OF MCMINNVILLE, OR CITY OF MEDFORD, OR CITY OF METAIRIE, LA CITY OF MILL CITY, OR CITY OF MILWAUKIE, OR CITY OF MONROE, LA CITY OF MOSIER, OR CITY OF NEW ORLEANS, LA CITY OF NORTH PLAINS, OR CITY OF OREGON CITY, OR CITY OF PILOT ROCK, OR CITY OF PORTLAND, OR CITY OF POWERS, OR CITY OF PRINEVILLE, OR CITY OF REDMOND, OR CITY OF REEDSPORT, OR CITY OF RIDDLE, OR CITY OF ROGUE RIVER, OR CITY OF ROSEBURG, OR CITY OF SALEM, OR CITY OF SANDY, OR CITY OF SCAPPOOSE, OR CITY OF SHADY COVE, OR CITY OF SHERWOOD, OR CITY OF SHREVEPORT, LA CITY OF SILVERTON, OR CITY OF SPRINGFIELD, OR CITY OF ST. HELENS, OR CITY OF ST. PAUL, OR 75 of 369 CITY OF SULPHUR, LA CITY OF TIGARD, OR CITY OF TROUTDALE, OR CITY OF TUALATIN, OR CITY OF WALKER, LA CITY OF WARRENTON, OR CITY OF WEST LINN, OR CITY OF WILSONVILLE, OR CITY OF WINSTON, OR CITY OF WOODBURN, OR LEAGUE OF OREGON CITES THE CITY OF HAPPY VALLEY OREGON ALPINE, UT ALTA, UT ALTAMONT, UT ALTON, UT AMALGA, UT AMERICAN FORK CITY, UT ANNABELLA, UT ANTIMONY, UT APPLE VALLEY, UT AURORA, UT BALLARD, UT BEAR RIVER CITY, UT BEAVER, UT BICKNELL, UT BIG WATER, UT BLANDING, UT BLUFFDALE, UT BOULDER, UT CITY OF BOUNTIFUL, UT BRIAN HEAD, UT BRIGHAM CITY CORPORATION, UT BRYCE CANYON CITY, UT CANNONVILLE, UT CASTLE DALE, UT CASTLE VALLEY, UT CITY OF CEDAR CITY, UT CEDAR FORT, UT CITY OF CEDAR HILLS, UT CENTERFIELD, UT CENTERVILLE CITY CORPORATION, UT CENTRAL VALLEY, UT CHARLESTON, UT CIRCLEVILLE, UT CLARKSTON, UT CLAWSON, UT CLEARFIELD, UT CLEVELAND, UT CLINTON CITY CORPORATION, UT COALVILLE, UT CORINNE, UT CORNISH, UT COTTONWOOD HEIGHTS, UT DANIEL, UT DELTA, UT DEWEYVILLE, UT DRAPER CITY, UT DUCHESNE, UT EAGLE MOUNTAIN, UT EAST CARBON, UT ELK RIDGE, UT ELMO, UT ELSINORE, UT ELWOOD, UT 76 of 369 EMERY, UT ENOCH, UT ENTERPRISE, UT EPHRAIM, UT ESCALANTE, UT EUREKA, UT FAIRFIELD, UT FAIRVIEW, UT FARMINGTON, UT FARR WEST, UT FAYETTE, UT FERRON, UT FIELDING, UT FILLMORE, UT FOUNTAIN GREEN, UT FRANCIS, UT FRUIT HEIGHTS, UT GARDEN CITY, UT GARLAND, UT GENOLA, UT GLENDALE, UT GLENWOOD, UT GOSHEN, UT GRANTSVILLE, UT GREEN RIVER, UT GUNNISON, UT HANKSVILLE, UT HARRISVILLE, UT HATCH, UT HEBER CITY CORPORATION, UT HELPER, UT HENEFER, UT HENRIEVILLE, UT HERRIMAN, UT HIDEOUT, UT HIGHLAND, UT HILDALE, UT HINCKLEY, UT HOLDEN, UT HOLLADAY, UT HONEYVILLE, UT HOOPER, UT HOWELL, UT HUNTINGTON, UT HUNTSVILLE, UT CITY OF HURRICANE, UT HYDE PARK, UT HYRUM, UT INDEPENDENCE, UT IVINS, UT JOSEPH, UT JUNCTION, UT KAMAS, UT KANAB, UT KANARRAVILLE, UT KANOSH, UT KAYSVILLE, UT KINGSTON, UT KOOSHAREM, UT LAKETOWN, UT LA VERKIN, UT LAYTON, UT LEAMINGTON, UT LEEDS, UT LEHI CITY CORPORATION, UT 77 of 369 LEVAN, UT LEWISTON, UT LINDON, UT LOA, UT LOGAN CITY, UT LYMAN, UT LYNNDYL, UT MANILA, UT MANTI, UT MANTUA, UT MAPLETON, UT MARRIOTT-SLATERVILLE, UT MARYSVALE, UT MAYFIELD, UT MEADOW, UT MENDON, UT MIDVALE CITY INC., UT MIDWAY, UT MILFORD, UT MILLVILLE, UT MINERSVILLE, UT MOAB, UT MONA, UT MONROE, UT CITY OF MONTICELLO, UT MORGAN, UT MORONI, UT MOUNT PLEASANT, UT MURRAY CITY CORPORATION, UT MYTON, UT NAPLES, UT NEPHI, UT NEW HARMONY, UT NEWTON, UT NIBLEY, UT NORTH LOGAN, UT NORTH OGDEN, UT NORTH SALT LAKE CITY, UT OAK CITY, UT OAKLEY, UT OGDEN CITY CORPORATION, UT OPHIR, UT ORANGEVILLE, UT ORDERVILLE, UT OREM, UT PANGUITCH, UT PARADISE, UT PARAGONAH, UT PARK CITY, UT PAROWAN, UT PAYSON, UT PERRY, UT PLAIN CITY, UT PLEASANT GROVE CITY, UT PLEASANT VIEW, UT PLYMOUTH, UT PORTAGE, UT PRICE, UT PROVIDENCE, UT PROVO, UT RANDOLPH, UT REDMOND, UT RICHFIELD, UT RICHMOND, UT RIVERDALE, UT 78 of 369 RIVER HEIGHTS, UT RIVERTON CITY, UT ROCKVILLE, UT ROCKY RIDGE, UT ROOSEVELT CITY CORPORATION, UT ROY, UT RUSH VALLEY, UT CITY OF ST. GEORGE, UT SALEM, UT SALINA, UT SALT LAKE CITY CORPORATION, UT SANDY, UT SANTA CLARA, UT SANTAQUIN, UT SARATOGA SPRINGS, UT SCIPIO, UT SCOFIELD, UT SIGURD, UT SMITHFIELD, UT SNOWVILLE, UT CITY OF SOUTH JORDAN, UT SOUTH OGDEN, UT CITY OF SOUTH SALT LAKE, UT SOUTH WEBER, UT SPANISH FORK, UT SPRING CITY, UT SPRINGDALE, UT SPRINGVILLE, UT STERLING, UT STOCKTON, UT SUNNYSIDE, UT SUNSET CITY CORP, UT SYRACUSE, UT TABIONA, UT CITY OF TAYLORSVILLE, UT TOOELE CITY CORPORATION, UT TOQUERVILLE, UT TORREY, UT TREMONTON CITY, UT TRENTON, UT TROPIC, UT UINTAH, UT VERNAL CITY, UT VERNON, UT VINEYARD, UT VIRGIN, UT WALES, UT WALLSBURG, UT WASHINGTON CITY, UT WASHINGTON TERRACE, UT WELLINGTON, UT WELLSVILLE, UT WENDOVER, UT WEST BOUNTIFUL, UT WEST HAVEN, UT WEST JORDAN, UT WEST POINT, UT WEST VALLEY CITY, UT WILLARD, UT WOODLAND HILLS, UT WOODRUFF, UT WOODS CROSS, UT COUNTIES AND PARISHES INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO: ASCENSION PARISH, LA 79 of 369 ASCENSION PARISH, LA, CLEAR OF COURT CADDO PARISH, LA CALCASIEU PARISH, LA CALCASIEU PARISH SHERIFF’S OFFICE, LA CITY AND COUNTY OF HONOLULU, HI CLACKAMAS COUNTY, OR CLACKAMAS COUNTY DEPT OF TRANSPORTATION, OR CLATSOP COUNTY, OR COLUMBIA COUNTY, OR COOS COUNTY, OR COOS COUNTY HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT, OR COUNTY OF HAWAII, OR CROOK COUNTY, OR CROOK COUNTY ROAD DEPARTMENT, OR CURRY COUNTY, OR DESCHUTES COUNTY, OR DOUGLAS COUNTY, OR EAST BATON ROUGE PARISH, LA GILLIAM COUNTY, OR GRANT COUNTY, OR HARNEY COUNTY, OR HARNEY COUNTY SHERIFFS OFFICE, OR HAWAII COUNTY, HI HOOD RIVER COUNTY, OR JACKSON COUNTY, OR JEFFERSON COUNTY, OR JEFFERSON PARISH, LA JOSEPHINE COUNTY GOVERNMENT, OR LAFAYETTE CONSOLIDATED GOVERNMENT, LA LAFAYETTE PARISH, LA LAFAYETTE PARISH CONVENTION & VISITORS COMMISSION LAFOURCHE PARISH, LA KAUAI COUNTY, HI KLAMATH COUNTY, OR LAKE COUNTY, OR LANE COUNTY, OR LINCOLN COUNTY, OR LINN COUNTY, OR LIVINGSTON PARISH, LA MALHEUR COUNTY, OR MAUI COUNTY, HI MARION COUNTY, SALEM, OR MORROW COUNTY, OR MULTNOMAH COUNTY, OR MULTNOMAH COUNTY BUSINESS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES, OR MULTNOMAH COUNTY SHERIFFS OFFICE, OR MULTNOMAH LAW LIBRARY, OR ORLEANS PARISH, LA PLAQUEMINES PARISH, LA POLK COUNTY, OR RAPIDES PARISH, LA SAINT CHARLES PARISH, LA SAINT CHARLES PARISH PUBLIC SCHOOLS, LA SAINT LANDRY PARISH, LA SAINT TAMMANY PARISH, LA SHERMAN COUNTY, OR TERREBONNE PARISH, LA TILLAMOOK COUNTY, OR TILLAMOOK COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE, OR TILLAMOOK COUNTY GENERAL HOSPITAL, OR UMATILLA COUNTY, OR UNION COUNTY, OR WALLOWA COUNTY, OR WASCO COUNTY, OR WASHINGTON COUNTY, OR 80 of 369 WEST BATON ROUGE PARISH, LA WHEELER COUNTY, OR YAMHILL COUNTY, OR COUNTY OF BOX ELDER, UT COUNTY OF CACHE, UT COUNTY OF RICH, UT COUNTY OF WEBER, UT COUNTY OF MORGAN, UT COUNTY OF DAVIS, UT COUNTY OF SUMMIT, UT COUNTY OF DAGGETT, UT COUNTY OF SALT LAKE, UT COUNTY OF TOOELE, UT COUNTY OF UTAH, UT COUNTY OF WASATCH, UT COUNTY OF DUCHESNE, UT COUNTY OF UINTAH, UT COUNTY OF CARBON, UT COUNTY OF SANPETE, UT COUNTY OF JUAB, UT COUNTY OF MILLARD, UT COUNTY OF SEVIER, UT COUNTY OF EMERY, UT COUNTY OF GRAND, UT COUNTY OF BEVER, UT COUNTY OF PIUTE, UT COUNTY OF WAYNE, UT COUNTY OF SAN JUAN, UT COUNTY OF GARFIELD, UT COUNTY OF KANE, UT COUNTY OF IRON, UT COUNTY OF WASHINGTON, UT OTHER AGENCIES INCLUDING ASSOCIATIONS, BOARDS, DISTRICTS, COMMISSIONS, COUNCILS, PUBLIC CORPORATIONS, PUBLIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITIES, RESERVATIONS AND UTILITIES INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO: ADAIR R.F.P.D., OR ADEL WATER IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, OR ADRIAN R.F.P.D., OR AGNESS COMMUNITY LIBRARY, OR AGNESS-ILLAHE R.F.P.D., OR AGRICULTURE EDUCATION SERVICE EXTENSION DISTRICT, OR ALDER CREEK-BARLOW WATER DISTRICT NO. 29, OR ALFALFA FIRE DISTRICT, OR ALSEA R.F.P.D., OR ALSEA RIVIERA WATER IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, OR AMITY FIRE DISTRICT, OR ANTELOPE MEADOWS SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR APPLE ROGUE DISTRICT IMPROVEMENT COMPANY, OR APPLEGATE VALLEY R.F.P.D. #9, OR ARCH CAPE DOMESTIC WATER SUPPLY DISTRICT, OR ARCH CAPE SANITARY DISTRICT, OR ARNOLD IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR ASH CREEK WATER CONTROL DISTRICT, OR ATHENA CEMETERY MAINTENANCE DISTRICT, OR AUMSVILLE R.F.P.D., OR AURORA R.F.P.D., OR AZALEA R.F.P.D., OR BADGER IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, OR BAILEY-SPENCER R.F.P.D., OR BAKER COUNTY LIBRARY DISTRICT, OR BAKER R.F.P.D., OR BAKER RIVERTON ROAD DISTRICT, OR BAKER VALLEY IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR BAKER VALLEY S.W.C.D., OR 81 of 369 BAKER VALLEY VECTOR CONTROL DISTRICT, OR BANDON CRANBERRY WATER CONTROL DISTRICT, OR BANDON R.F.P.D., OR BANKS FIRE DISTRICT, OR BANKS FIRE DISTRICT #13, OR BAR L RANCH ROAD DISTRICT, OR BARLOW WATER IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, OR BASIN AMBULANCE SERVICE DISTRICT, OR BASIN TRANSIT SERVICE TRANSPORTATION DISTRICT, OR BATON ROUGE WATER COMPANY BAY AREA HEALTH DISTRICT, OR BAYSHORE SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR BEAR VALLEY SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR BEAVER CREEK WATER CONTROL DISTRICT, OR BEAVER DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENT COMPANY, INC., OR BEAVER SLOUGH DRAINAGE DISTRICT, OR BEAVER SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR BEAVER WATER DISTRICT, OR BELLE MER S.I.G.L. TRACTS SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR BEND METRO PARK AND RECREATION DISTRICT BENTON S.W.C.D., OR BERNDT SUBDIVISION W ATER IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, OR BEVERLY BEACH WATER DISTRICT, OR BIENVILLE PARISH FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT 6, LA BIG BEND IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR BIGGS SERVICE DISTRICT, OR BLACK BUTTE RANCH DEPARTMENT OF POLICE SERVICES, OR BLACK BUTTE RANCH R.F.P.D., OR BLACK MOUNTAIN WATER DISTRICT, OR BLODGETT-SUMMIT R.F.P.D., OR BLUE MOUNTAIN HOSPITAL DISTRICT, OR BLUE MOUNTAIN TRANSLATOR DISTRICT, OR BLUE RIVER PARK & RECREATION DISTRICT, OR BLUE RIVER WATER DISTRICT, OR BLY R.F.P.D., OR BLY VECTOR CONTROL DISTRICT, OR BLY WATER AND SANITARY DISTRICT, OR BOARDMAN CEMETERY MAINTENANCE DISTRICT, OR BOARDMAN PARK AND RECREATION DISTRICT BOARDMAN R.F.P.D., OR BONANZA BIG SPRINGS PARK & RECREATION DISTRICT, OR BONANZA MEMORIAL PARK CEMETERY DISTRICT, OR BONANZA R.F.P.D., OR BONANZA-LANGELL VALLEY VECTOR CONTROL DISTRICT, OR BORING WATER DISTRICT #24, OR BOULDER CREEK RETREAT SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR BRIDGE R.F.P.D., OR BROOKS COMMUNITY SERVICE DISTRICT, OR BROWNSVILLE R.F.P.D., OR BUELL-RED PRAIRIE WATER DISTRICT, OR BUNKER HILL R.F.P.D. #1, OR BUNKER HILL SANITARY DISTRICT, OR BURLINGTON WATER DISTRICT, OR BURNT RIVER IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR BURNT RIVER S.W.C.D., OR CALAPOOIA R.F.P.D., OR CAMAS VALLEY R.F.P.D., OR CAMELLIA PARK SANITARY DISTRICT, OR CAMMANN ROAD DISTRICT, OR CAMP SHERMAN ROAD DISTRICT, OR CANBY AREA TRANSIT, OR CANBY R.F.P.D. #62, OR CANBY UTILITY BOARD, OR CANNON BEACH R.F.P.D., OR CANYONVILLE SOUTH UMPQUA FIRE DISTRICT, OR 82 of 369 CAPE FERRELO R.F.P.D., OR CAPE FOULWEATHER SANITARY DISTRICT, OR CARLSON PRIMROSE SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR CARMEL BEACH WATER DISTRICT, OR CASCADE VIEW ESTATES TRACT 2, OR CEDAR CREST SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR CEDAR TRAILS SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR CEDAR VALLEY - NORTH BANK R.F.P.D., OR CENTRAL CASCADES FIRE AND EMS, OR CENTRAL CITY ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY CORP, LA CENTRAL LINCOLN P.U.D., OR CENTRAL OREGON COAST FIRE & RESCUE DISTRICT, OR CENTRAL OREGON INTERGOVERNMENTAL COUNCIL CENTRAL OREGON IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR CHAPARRAL WATER CONTROL DISTRICT, OR CHARLESTON FIRE DISTRICT, OR CHARLESTON SANITARY DISTRICT, OR CHARLOTTE ANN WATER DISTRICT, OR CHEHALEM PARK & RECREATION DISTRICT, OR CHEHALEM PARK AND RECREATION DISTRICT CHEMULT R.F.P.D., OR CHENOWITH WATER P.U.D., OR CHERRIOTS, OR CHETCO COMMUNITY PUBLIC LIBRARY DISTRICT, OR CHILOQUIN VECTOR CONTROL DISTRICT, OR CHILOQUIN-AGENCY LAKE R.F.P.D., OR CHINOOK DRIVE SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR CHR DISTRICT IMPROVEMENT COMPANY, OR CHRISTMAS VALLEY DOMESTIC WATER DISTRICT, OR CHRISTMAS VALLEY PARK & RECREATION DISTRICT, OR CHRISTMAS VALLEY R.F.P.D., OR CITY OF BOGALUSA SCHOOL BOARD, LA CLACKAMAS COUNTY FIRE DISTRICT #1, OR CLACKAMAS COUNTY SERVICE DISTRICT #1, OR CLACKAMAS COUNTY VECTOR CONTROL DISTRICT, OR CLACKAMAS RIVER WATER CLACKAMAS RIVER WATER, OR CLACKAMAS S.W.C.D., OR CLATSKANIE DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENT COMPANY, OR CLATSKANIE LIBRARY DISTRICT, OR CLATSKANIE P.U.D., OR CLATSKANIE PARK & RECREATION DISTRICT, OR CLATSKANIE PEOPLE'S UTILITY DISTRICT CLATSKANIE R.F.P.D., OR CLATSOP CARE CENTER HEALTH DISTRICT, OR CLATSOP COUNTY S.W.C.D., OR CLATSOP DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENT COMPANY #15, INC., OR CLEAN WATER SERVICES CLEAN WATER SERVICES, OR CLOVERDALE R.F.P.D., OR CLOVERDALE SANITARY DISTRICT, OR CLOVERDALE WATER DISTRICT, OR COALEDO DRAINAGE DISTRICT, OR COBURG FIRE DISTRICT, OR COLESTIN RURAL FIRE DISTRICT, OR COLTON R.F.P.D., OR COLTON WATER DISTRICT #11, OR COLUMBIA 911 COMMUNICATIONS DISTRICT, OR COLUMBIA COUNTY 4-H & EXTENSION SERVICE DISTRICT, OR COLUMBIA DRAINAGE VECTOR CONTROL, OR COLUMBIA IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, OR COLUMBIA R.F.P.D., OR COLUMBIA RIVER FIRE & RESCUE, OR COLUMBIA RIVER PUD, OR COLUMBIA S.W.C.D., OR 83 of 369 COLUMBIA S.W.C.D., OR CONFEDERATED TRIBES OF THE UMATILLA INDIAN RESERVATION COOS COUNTY AIRPORT DISTRICT, OR COOS COUNTY AIRPORT DISTRICT, OR COOS COUNTY AREA TRANSIT SERVICE DISTRICT, OR COOS COUNTY AREA TRANSIT SERVICE DISTRICT, OR COOS FOREST PROTECTIVE ASSOCIATION COOS S.W.C.D., OR COQUILLE R.F.P.D., OR COQUILLE VALLEY HOSPITAL DISTRICT, OR CORBETT WATER DISTRICT, OR CORNELIUS R.F.P.D., OR CORP RANCH ROAD WATER IMPROVEMENT, OR CORVALLIS R.F.P.D., OR COUNTRY CLUB ESTATES SPECIAL WATER DISTRICT, OR COUNTRY CLUB WATER DISTRICT, OR COUNTRY ESTATES ROAD DISTRICT, OR COVE CEMETERY MAINTENANCE DISTRICT, OR COVE ORCHARD SEWER SERVICE DISTRICT, OR COVE R.F.P.D., OR CRESCENT R.F.P.D., OR CRESCENT SANITARY DISTRICT, OR CRESCENT WATER SUPPLY AND IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, OR CROOK COUNTY AGRICULTURE EXTENSION SERVICE DISTRICT, OR CROOK COUNTY CEMETERY DISTRICT, OR CROOK COUNTY FIRE AND RESCUE, OR CROOK COUNTY PARKS & RECREATION DISTRICT, OR CROOK COUNTY S.W.C.D., OR CROOK COUNTY VECTOR CONTROL DISTRICT, OR CROOKED RIVER RANCH R.F.P.D., OR CROOKED RIVER RANCH SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR CRYSTAL SPRINGS WATER DISTRICT, OR CURRY COUNTY 4-H & EXTENSION SERVICE DISTRICT, OR CURRY COUNTY PUBLIC TRANSIT SERVICE DISTRICT, OR CURRY COUNTY S.W.C.D., OR CURRY HEALTH DISTRICT, OR CURRY PUBLIC LIBRARY DISTRICT, OR DALLAS CEMETERY DISTRICT #4, OR DARLEY DRIVE SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR DAVID CROCKETT STEAM FIRE COMPANY #1, LA DAYS CREEK R.F.P.D., OR DAYTON FIRE DISTRICT, OR DEAN MINARD WATER DISTRICT, OR DEE IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR DEER ISLAND DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENT COMPANY, OR DELL BROGAN CEMETERY MAINTENANCE DISTRICT, OR DEPOE BAY R.F.P.D., OR DESCHUTES COUNTY 911 SERVICE DISTRICT, OR DESCHUTES COUNTY R.F.P.D. #2, OR DESCHUTES PUBLIC LIBRARY DISTRICT, OR DESCHUTES S.W.C.D., OR DESCHUTES VALLEY WATER DISTRICT, OR DEVILS LAKE WATER IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, OR DEXTER R.F.P.D., OR DEXTER SANITARY DISTRICT, OR DORA-SITKUM R.F.P.D., OR DOUGLAS COUNTY FIRE DISTRICT #2, OR DOUGLAS S.W.C.D., OR DRAKES CROSSING R.F.P.D., OR DRRH SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT #6, OR DRY GULCH DITCH DISTRICT IMPROVEMENT COMPANY, OR DUFUR RECREATION DISTRICT, OR DUMBECK LANE DOMESTIC WATER SUPPLY, OR DUNDEE R.F.P.D., OR DURKEE COMMUNITY BUILDING PRESERVATION DISTRICT, OR 84 of 369 EAGLE POINT IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR EAGLE VALLEY CEMETERY MAINTENANCE DISTRICT, OR EAGLE VALLEY R.F.P.D., OR EAGLE VALLEY S.W.C.D., OR EAST FORK IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR EAST MULTNOMAH S.W.C.D., OR EAST SALEM SERVICE DISTRICT, OR EAST UMATILLA CHEMICAL CONTROL DISTRICT, OR EAST UMATILLA COUNTY AMBULANCE AREA HEALTH DISTRICT, OR EAST UMATILLA COUNTY R.F.P.D., OR EAST VALLEY WATER DISTRICT, OR ELGIN COMMUNITY PARKS & RECREATION DISTRICT, OR ELGIN HEALTH DISTRICT, OR ELGIN R.F.P.D., OR ELKTON ESTATES PHASE II SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR ELKTON R.F.P.D., OR EMERALD P.U.D., OR ENTERPRISE IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR ESTACADA CEMETERY MAINTENANCE DISTRICT, OR ESTACADA R.F.P.D. #69, OR EUGENE R.F.P.D. # 1, OR EUGENE WATER AND ELECTRIC BOARD EVANS VALLEY FIRE DISTRICT #6, OR FAIR OAKS R.F.P.D., OR FAIRVIEW R.F.P.D., OR FAIRVIEW WATER DISTRICT, OR FALCON HEIGHTS WATER AND SEWER, OR FALCON-COVE BEACH WATER DISTRICT, OR FALL RIVER ESTATES SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR FARGO INTERCHANGE SERVICE DISTRICT, OR FARMERS IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR FAT ELK DRAINAGE DISTRICT, OR FERN RIDGE PUBLIC LIBRARY DISTRICT, OR FERN VALLEY ESTATES IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, OR FOR FAR ROAD DISTRICT, OR FOREST GROVE R.F.P.D., OR FOREST VIEW SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR FORT ROCK-SILVER LAKE S.W.C.D., OR FOUR RIVERS VECTOR CONTROL DISTRICT, OR FOX CEMETERY MAINTENANCE DISTRICT, OR GARDINER R.F.P.D., OR GARDINER SANITARY DISTRICT, OR GARIBALDI R.F.P.D., OR GASTON R.F.P.D., OR GATES R.F.P.D., OR GEARHART R.F.P.D., OR GILLIAM S.W.C.D., OR GLENDALE AMBULANCE DISTRICT, OR GLENDALE R.F.P.D., OR GLENEDEN BEACH SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR GLENEDEN SANITARY DISTRICT, OR GLENWOOD WATER DISTRICT, OR GLIDE - IDLEYLD SANITARY DISTRICT, OR GLIDE R.F.P.D., OR GOLD BEACH - WEDDERBURN R.F.P.D., OR GOLD HILL IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR GOLDFINCH ROAD DISTRICT, OR GOSHEN R.F.P.D., OR GOVERNMENT CAMP ROAD DISTRICT, OR GOVERNMENT CAMP SANITARY DISTRICT, OR GRAND PRAIRIE WATER CONTROL DISTRICT, OR GRAND RONDE SANITARY DISTRICT, OR GRANT COUNTY TRANSPORTATION DISTRICT, OR GRANT S.W.C.D., OR GRANTS PASS IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR 85 of 369 GREATER BOWEN VALLEY R.F.P.D., OR GREATER ST. HELENS PARK & RECREATION DISTRICT, OR GREATER TOLEDO POOL RECREATION DISTRICT, OR GREEN KNOLLS SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR GREEN SANITARY DISTRICT, OR GREENACRES R.F.P.D., OR GREENBERRY IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR GREENSPRINGS RURAL FIRE DISTRICT, OR HAHLEN ROAD SPECIAL DISTRICT, OR HAINES CEMETERY MAINTENANCE DISTRICT, OR HAINES FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT, OR HALSEY-SHEDD R.F.P.D., OR HAMLET R.F.P.D., OR HARBOR R.F.P.D., OR HARBOR SANITARY DISTRICT, OR HARBOR WATER P.U.D., OR HARNEY COUNTY HEALTH DISTRICT, OR HARNEY S.W.C.D., OR HARPER SOUTH SIDE IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR HARRISBURG FIRE AND RESCUE, OR HAUSER R.F.P.D., OR HAZELDELL RURAL FIRE DISTRICT, OR HEBO JOINT WATER-SANITARY AUTHORITY, OR HECETA WATER P.U.D., OR HELIX CEMETERY MAINTENANCE DISTRICT #4, OR HELIX PARK & RECREATION DISTRICT, OR HELIX R.F.P.D. #7-411, OR HEPPNER CEMETERY MAINTENANCE DISTRICT, OR HEPPNER R.F.P.D., OR HEPPNER WATER CONTROL DISTRICT, OR HEREFORD COMMUNITY HALL RECREATION DISTRICT, OR HERMISTON CEMETERY DISTRICT, OR HERMISTON IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR HIDDEN VALLEY MOBILE ESTATES IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, OR HIGH DESERT PARK & RECREATION DISTRICT, OR HIGHLAND SUBDIVISION WATER DISTRICT, OR HONOLULU INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT HOOD RIVER COUNTY LIBRARY DISTRICT, OR HOOD RIVER COUNTY TRANSPORTATION DISTRICT, OR HOOD RIVER S.W.C.D., OR HOOD RIVER VALLEY PARKS & RECREATION DISTRICT, OR HOODLAND FIRE DISTRICT #74 HOODLAND FIRE DISTRICT #74, OR HORSEFLY IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR HOSKINS-KINGS VALLEY R.F.P.D., OR HOUSING AUTHORITY OF PORTLAND HUBBARD R.F.P.D., OR HUDSON BAY DISTRICT IMPROVEMENT COMPANY, OR I N (KAY) YOUNG DITCH DISTRICT IMPROVEMENT COMPANY, OR ICE FOUNTAIN WATER DISTRICT, OR IDAHO POINT SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR IDANHA-DETROIT RURAL FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT, OR ILLINOIS VALLEY FIRE DISTRICT ILLINOIS VALLEY R.F.P.D., OR ILLINOIS VALLEY S.W.C.D., OR IMBLER R.F.P.D., OR INTERLACHEN WATER P.U.D., OR IONE LIBRARY DISTRICT, OR IONE R.F.P.D. #6-604, OR IRONSIDE CEMETERY MAINTENANCE DISTRICT, OR IRONSIDE RURAL ROAD DISTRICT #5, OR IRRIGON PARK & RECREATION DISTRICT, OR IRRIGON R.F.P.D., OR ISLAND CITY AREA SANITATION DISTRICT, OR ISLAND CITY CEMETERY MAINTENANCE DISTRICT, OR 86 of 369 JACK PINE VILLAGE SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR JACKSON COUNTY FIRE DISTRICT #3, OR JACKSON COUNTY FIRE DISTRICT #4, OR JACKSON COUNTY FIRE DISTRICT #5, OR JACKSON COUNTY LIBRARY DISTRICT, OR JACKSON COUNTY VECTOR CONTROL DISTRICT, OR JACKSON S.W.C.D., OR JASPER KNOLLS WATER DISTRICT, OR JEFFERSON COUNTY EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICE DISTRICT, OR JEFFERSON COUNTY FIRE DISTRICT #1, OR JEFFERSON COUNTY LIBRARY DISTRICT, OR JEFFERSON COUNTY S.W .C.D., OR JEFFERSON PARK & RECREATION DISTRICT, OR JEFFERSON R.F.P.D., OR JOB'S DRAINAGE DISTRICT, OR JOHN DAY WATER DISTRICT, OR JOHN DAY-CANYON CITY PARKS & RECREATION DISTRICT, OR JOHN DAY-FERNHILL R.F.P.D. #5-108, OR JORDAN VALLEY CEMETERY DISTRICT, OR JORDAN VALLEY IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR JOSEPHINE COMMUNITY LIBRARY DISTRICT, OR JOSEPHINE COUNTY 4-H & EXTENSION SERVICE DISTRICT, OR JOSEPHINE COUNTY 911 AGENCY, OR JUNCTION CITY R.F.P.D., OR JUNCTION CITY WATER CONTROL DISTRICT, OR JUNIPER BUTTE ROAD DISTRICT, OR JUNIPER CANYON WATER CONTROL DISTRICT, OR JUNIPER FLAT DISTRICT IMPROVEMENT COMPANY, OR JUNIPER FLAT R.F.P.D., OR JUNO NONPROFIT WATER IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, OR KEATING R.F.P.D., OR KEATING S.W.C.D., OR KEIZER R.F.P.D., OR KELLOGG RURAL FIRE DISTRICT, OR KENO IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR KENO PINES ROAD DISTRICT, OR KENO R.F.P.D., OR KENT WATER DISTRICT, OR KERBY WATER DISTRICT, OR K-GB-LB WATER DISTRICT, OR KILCHIS WATER DISTRICT, OR KLAMATH 9-1-1 COMMUNICATIONS DISTRICT, OR KLAMATH BASIN IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, OR KLAMATH COUNTY DRAINAGE SERVICE DISTRICT, OR KLAMATH COUNTY EXTENSION SERVICE DISTRICT, OR KLAMATH COUNTY FIRE DISTRICT #1, OR KLAMATH COUNTY FIRE DISTRICT #3, OR KLAMATH COUNTY FIRE DISTRICT #4, OR KLAMATH COUNTY FIRE DISTRICT #5, OR KLAMATH COUNTY LIBRARY SERVICE DISTRICT, OR KLAMATH COUNTY PREDATORY ANIMAL CONTROL DISTRICT, OR KLAMATH DRAINAGE DISTRICT, OR KLAMATH FALLS FOREST ESTATES SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT UNIT #2, OR KLAMATH INTEROPERABILITY RADIO GROUP, OR KLAMATH IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR KLAMATH RIVER ACRES SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR KLAMATH S.W.C.D., OR KLAMATH VECTOR CONTROL DISTRICT, OR KNAPPA-SVENSEN-BURNSIDE R.F.P.D., OR LA GRANDE CEMETERY MAINTENANCE DISTRICT, OR LA GRANDE R.F.P.D., OR LA PINE PARK & RECREATION DISTRICT, OR LA PINE R.F.P.D., OR LABISH VILLAGE SEWAGE & DRAINAGE, OR LACOMB IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR 87 of 369 LAFAYETTE AIRPORT COMMISSION, LA LAFOURCHE PARISH HEALTH UNIT – DHH-OPH REGION 3 LAIDLAW WATER DISTRICT, OR LAKE CHINOOK FIRE & RESCUE, OR LAKE COUNTY 4-H & EXTENSION SERVICE DISTRICT, OR LAKE COUNTY LIBRARY DISTRICT, OR LAKE CREEK R.F.P.D. - JACKSON, OR LAKE CREEK R.F.P.D. - LANE COUNTY, OR LAKE DISTRICT HOSPITAL, OR LAKE GROVE R.F.P.D. NO. 57, OR LAKE GROVE WATER DISTRICT, OR LAKE LABISH WATER CONTROL DISTRICT, OR LAKE POINT SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR LAKESIDE R.F.P.D. #4, OR LAKESIDE WATER DISTRICT, OR LAKEVIEW R.F.P.D., OR LAKEVIEW S.W.C.D., OR LAMONTAI IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, OR LANE FIRE AUTHORITY, OR LANE LIBRARY DISTRICT, OR LANE TRANSIT DISTRICT, OR LANGELL VALLEY IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR LANGLOIS PUBLIC LIBRARY, OR LANGLOIS R.F.P.D., OR LANGLOIS WATER DISTRICT, OR LAZY RIVER SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR LEBANON AQUATIC DISTRICT, OR LEBANON R.F.P.D., OR LEWIS & CLARK R.F.P.D., OR LINCOLN COUNTY LIBRARY DISTRICT, OR LINCOLN S.W.C.D., OR LINN COUNTY EMERGENCY TELEPHONE AGENCY, OR LINN S.W.C.D., OR LITTLE MUDDY CREEK W ATER CONTROL, OR LITTLE NESTUCCA DRAINAGE DISTRICT, OR LITTLE SWITZERLAND SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR LONE PINE IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR LONG PRAIRIE WATER DISTRICT, OR LOOKINGGLASS OLALLA WATER CONTROL DISTRICT, OR LOOKINGGLASS RURAL FIRE DISTRICT, OR LORANE R.F.P.D., OR LOST & BOULDER DITCH IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, OR LOST CREEK PARK SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR LOUISIANA PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION, LA LOUISIANA WATER WORKS LOWELL R.F.P.D., OR LOWER MCKAY CREEK R.F.P.D., OR LOWER MCKAY CREEK WATER CONTROL DISTRICT, OR LOWER POWDER RIVER IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR LOWER SILETZ WATER DISTRICT, OR LOWER UMPQUA HOSPITAL DISTRICT, OR LOWER UMPQUA PARK & RECREATION DISTRICT, OR LOWER VALLEY WATER IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, OR LUCE LONG DITCH DISTRICT IMPROVEMENT CO., OR LUSTED WATER DISTRICT, OR LYONS R.F.P.D., OR LYONS-MEHAMA WATER DISTRICT, OR MADRAS AQUATIC CENTER DISTRICT, OR MAKAI SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR MALHEUR COUNTY S.W.C.D., OR MALHEUR COUNTY VECTOR CONTROL DISTRICT, OR MALHEUR DISTRICT IMPROVEMENT COMPANY, OR MALHEUR DRAINAGE DISTRICT, OR MALHEUR MEMORIAL HEALTH DISTRICT, OR MALIN COMMUNITY CEMETERY MAINTENANCE DISTRICT, OR 88 of 369 MALIN COMMUNITY PARK & RECREATION DISTRICT, OR MALIN IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR MALIN R.F.P.D., OR MAPLETON FIRE DEPARTMENT, OR MAPLETON WATER DISTRICT, OR MARCOLA WATER DISTRICT, OR MARION COUNTY EXTENSION & 4H SERVICE DISTRICT, OR MARION COUNTY FIRE DISTRICT #1, OR MARION JACK IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, OR MARION S.W.C.D., OR MARY'S RIVER ESTATES ROAD DISTRICT, OR MCDONALD FOREST ESTATES SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR MCKAY ACRES IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, OR MCKAY DAM R.F.P.D. # 7-410, OR MCKENZIE FIRE & RESCUE, OR MCKENZIE PALISADES WATER SUPPLY CORPORATION, OR MCMINNVILLE R.F.P.D., OR MCNULTY WATER P.U.D., OR MEADOWS DRAINAGE DISTRICT, OR MEDFORD IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR MEDFORD R.F.P.D. #2, OR MEDFORD WATER COMMISSION MEDICAL SPRINGS R.F.P.D., OR MELHEUR COUNTY JAIL, OR MERLIN COMMUNITY PARK DISTRICT, OR MERRILL CEMETERY MAINTENANCE DISTRICT, OR MERRILL PARK DISTRICT, OR MERRILL R.F.P.D., OR METRO REGIONAL GOVERNMENT METRO REGIONAL PARKS METROPOLITAN EXPOSITION RECREATION COMMISSION METROPOLITAN SERVICE DISTRICT (METRO) MID COUNTY CEMETERY MAINTENANCE DISTRICT, OR MID-COLUMBIA FIRE AND RESCUE, OR MIDDLE FORK IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR MIDLAND COMMUNITY PARK, OR MIDLAND DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, OR MILES CROSSING SANITARY SEWER DISTRICT, OR MILL CITY R.F.P.D. #2-303, OR MILL FOUR DRAINAGE DISTRICT, OR MILLICOMA RIVER PARK & RECREATION DISTRICT, OR MILLINGTON R.F.P.D. #5, OR MILO VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT, OR MILTON-FREEWATER AMBULANCE SERVICE AREA HEALTH DISTRICT, OR MILTON-FREEWATER WATER CONTROL DISTRICT, OR MIROCO SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR MIST-BIRKENFELD R.F.P.D., OR MODOC POINT IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR MODOC POINT SANITARY DISTRICT, OR MOHAWK VALLEY R.F.P.D., OR MOLALLA AQUATIC DISTRICT, OR MOLALLA R.F.P.D. #73, OR MONITOR R.F.P.D., OR MONROE R.F.P.D., OR MONUMENT CEMETERY MAINTENANCE DISTRICT, OR MONUMENT S.W.C.D., OR MOOREA DRIVE SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR MORO R.F.P.D., OR MORROW COUNTY HEALTH DISTRICT, OR MORROW COUNTY UNIFIED RECREATION DISTRICT, OR MORROW S.W.C.D., OR MOSIER FIRE DISTRICT, OR MOUNTAIN DRIVE SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR MT. ANGEL R.F.P.D., OR MT. HOOD IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR 89 of 369 MT. LAKI CEMETERY DISTRICT, OR MT. VERNON R.F.P.D., OR MULINO WATER DISTRICT #1, OR MULTNOMAH COUNTY DRAINAGE DISTRICT #1, OR MULTNOMAH COUNTY R.F.P.D. #10, OR MULTNOMAH COUNTY R.F.P.D. #14, OR MULTNOMAH EDUCATION SERVICE DISTRICT MYRTLE CREEK R.F.P.D., OR NEAH-KAH-NIE WATER DISTRICT, OR NEDONNA R.F.P.D., OR NEHALEM BAY FIRE AND RESCUE, OR NEHALEM BAY HEALTH DISTRICT, OR NEHALEM BAY WASTEWATER AGENCY, OR NESIKA BEACH-OPHIR WATER DISTRICT, OR NESKOWIN REGIONAL SANITARY AUTHORITY, OR NESKOWIN REGIONAL WATER DISTRICT, OR NESTUCCA R.F.P.D., OR NETARTS WATER DISTRICT, OR NETARTS-OCEANSIDE R.F.P.D., OR NETARTS-OCEANSIDE SANITARY DISTRICT, OR NEW BRIDGE WATER SUPPLY DISTRICT, OR NEW CARLTON FIRE DISTRICT, OR NEW ORLEANS REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY, LA NEW PINE CREEK R.F.P.D., OR NEWBERG R.F.P.D., OR NEWBERRY ESTATES SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR NEWPORT R.F.P.D., OR NEWT YOUNG DITCH DISTRICT IMPROVEMENT COMPANY, OR NORTH ALBANY R.F.P.D., OR NORTH BAY R.F.P.D. #9, OR NORTH CLACKAMAS PARKS & RECREATION DISTRICT, OR NORTH COUNTY RECREATION DISTRICT, OR NORTH DOUGLAS COUNTY FIRE & EMS, OR NORTH DOUGLAS PARK & RECREATION DISTRICT, OR NORTH GILLIAM COUNTY HEALTH DISTRICT, OR NORTH GILLIAM COUNTY R.F.P.D., OR NORTH LAKE HEALTH DISTRICT, OR NORTH LEBANON WATER CONTROL DISTRICT, OR NORTH LINCOLN FIRE & RESCUE DISTRICT #1, OR NORTH LINCOLN HEALTH DISTRICT, OR NORTH MORROW VECTOR CONTROL DISTRICT, OR NORTH SHERMAN COUNTY R.F.P.D, OR NORTH UNIT IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR NORTHEAST OREGON HOUSING AUTHORITY, OR NORTHEAST WHEELER COUNTY HEALTH DISTRICT, OR NORTHERN WASCO COUNTY P.U.D., OR NORTHERN WASCO COUNTY PARK & RECREATION DISTRICT, OR NYE DITCH USERS DISTRICT IMPROVEMENT, OR NYSSA ROAD ASSESSMENT DISTRICT #2, OR NYSSA RURAL FIRE DISTRICT, OR NYSSA-ARCADIA DRAINAGE DISTRICT, OR OAK LODGE WATER SERVICES, OR OAKLAND R.F.P.D., OR OAKVILLE COMMUNITY CENTER, OR OCEANSIDE WATER DISTRICT, OR OCHOCO IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR OCHOCO WEST WATER AND SANITARY AUTHORITY, OR ODELL SANITARY DISTRICT, OR OLD OWYHEE DITCH IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, OR OLNEY-WALLUSKI FIRE & RESCUE DISTRICT, OR ONTARIO LIBRARY DISTRICT, OR ONTARIO R.F.P.D., OR OPHIR R.F.P.D., OR OREGON COAST COMMUNITY ACTION OREGON HOUSING AND COMMUNITY SERVICES 90 of 369 OREGON INTERNATIONAL PORT OF COOS BAY, OR OREGON LEGISLATIVE ADMINISTRATION OREGON OUTBACK R.F.P.D., OR OREGON POINT, OR OREGON TRAIL LIBRARY DISTRICT, OR OTTER ROCK WATER DISTRICT, OR OWW UNIT #2 SANITARY DISTRICT, OR OWYHEE CEMETERY MAINTENANCE DISTRICT, OR OWYHEE IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR PACIFIC CITY JOINT WATER-SANITARY AUTHORITY, OR PACIFIC COMMUNITIES HEALTH DISTRICT, OR PACIFIC RIVIERA #3 SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR PALATINE HILL WATER DISTRICT, OR PALMER CREEK WATER DISTRICT IMPROVEMENT COMPANY, OR PANORAMIC ACCESS SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR PANTHER CREEK ROAD DISTRICT, OR PANTHER CREEK WATER DISTRICT, OR PARKDALE R.F.P.D., OR PARKDALE SANITARY DISTRICT, OR PENINSULA DRAINAGE DISTRICT #1, OR PENINSULA DRAINAGE DISTRICT #2, OR PHILOMATH FIRE AND RESCUE, OR PILOT ROCK CEMETERY MAINTENANCE DISTRICT #5, OR PILOT ROCK PARK & RECREATION DISTRICT, OR PILOT ROCK R.F.P.D., OR PINE EAGLE HEALTH DISTRICT, OR PINE FLAT DISTRICT IMPROVEMENT COMPANY, OR PINE GROVE IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR PINE GROVE WATER DISTRICT-KLAMATH FALLS, OR PINE GROVE WATER DISTRICT-MAUPIN, OR PINE VALLEY CEMETERY DISTRICT, OR PINE VALLEY R.F.P.D., OR PINEWOOD COUNTRY ESTATES SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR PIONEER DISTRICT IMPROVEMENT COMPANY, OR PISTOL RIVER CEMETERY MAINTENANCE DISTRICT, OR PISTOL RIVER FIRE DISTRICT, OR PLEASANT HILL R.F.P.D., OR PLEASANT HOME WATER DISTRICT, OR POCAHONTAS MINING AND IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR POE VALLEY IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, OR POE VALLEY PARK & RECREATION DISTRICT, OR POE VALLEY VECTOR CONTROL DISTRICT, OR POLK COUNTY FIRE DISTRICT #1, OR POLK S.W.C.D., OR POMPADOUR WATER IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, OR PONDEROSA PINES EAST SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR PORT OF ALSEA, OR PORT OF ARLINGTON, OR PORT OF ASTORIA, OR PORT OF BANDON, OR PORT OF BRANDON, OR PORT OF BROOKINGS HARBOR, OR PORT OF CASCADE LOCKS, OR PORT OF COQUILLE RIVER, OR PORT OF GARIBALDI, OR PORT OF GOLD BEACH, OR PORT OF HOOD RIVER, OR PORT OF MORGAN CITY, LA PORT OF MORROW, OR PORT OF NEHALEM, OR PORT OF NEWPORT, OR PORT OF PORT ORFORD, OR PORT OF PORTLAND, OR PORT OF SIUSLAW, OR PORT OF ST. HELENS, OR 91 of 369 PORT OF THE DALLES, OR PORT OF TILLAMOOK BAY, OR PORT OF TOLEDO, OR PORT OF UMATILLA, OR PORT OF UMPQUA, OR PORT ORFORD CEMETERY MAINTENANCE DISTRICT, OR PORT ORFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY DISTRICT, OR PORT ORFORD R.F.P.D., OR PORTLAND DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION, OR PORTLAND FIRE AND RESCUE PORTLAND HOUSING CENTER, OR POWDER R.F.P.D., OR POWDER RIVER R.F.P.D., OR POWDER VALLEY WATER CONTROL DISTRICT, OR POWERS HEALTH DISTRICT, OR PRAIRIE CEMETERY MAINTENANCE DISTRICT, OR PRINEVILLE LAKE ACRES SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT #1, OR PROSPECT R.F.P.D., OR QUAIL VALLEY PARK IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, OR QUEENER IRRIGATION IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, OR RAINBOW WATER DISTRICT, OR RAINIER CEMETERY DISTRICT, OR RAINIER DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENT COMPANY, OR RALEIGH WATER DISTRICT, OR REDMOND AREA PARK & RECREATION DISTRICT, OR REDMOND FIRE AND RESCUE, OR RIDDLE FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT, OR RIDGEWOOD DISTRICT IMPROVEMENT COMPANY, OR RIDGEWOOD ROAD DISTRICT, OR RIETH SANITARY DISTRICT, OR RIETH WATER DISTRICT, OR RIMROCK WEST IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, OR RINK CREEK WATER DISTRICT, OR RIVER BEND ESTATES SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR RIVER FOREST ACRES SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR RIVER MEADOWS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, OR RIVER PINES ESTATES SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR RIVER ROAD PARK & RECREATION DISTRICT, OR RIVER ROAD WATER DISTRICT, OR RIVERBEND RIVERBANK WATER IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, OR RIVERDALE R.F.P.D. 11-JT, OR RIVERGROVE WATER DISTRICT, OR RIVERSIDE MISSION WATER CONTROL DISTRICT, OR RIVERSIDE R.F.P.D. #7-406, OR RIVERSIDE WATER DISTRICT, OR ROBERTS CREEK WATER DISTRICT, OR ROCK CREEK DISTRICT IMPROVEMENT, OR ROCK CREEK WATER DISTRICT, OR ROCKWOOD WATER P.U.D., OR ROCKY POINT FIRE & EMS, OR ROGUE RIVER R.F.P.D., OR ROGUE RIVER VALLEY IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR ROGUE VALLEY SEWER SERVICES, OR ROGUE VALLEY SEWER, OR ROGUE VALLEY TRANSPORTATION DISTRICT, OR ROSEBURG URBAN SANITARY AUTHORITY, OR ROSEWOOD ESTATES ROAD DISTRICT, OR ROW RIVER VALLEY WATER DISTRICT, OR RURAL ROAD ASSESSMENT DISTRICT #3, OR RURAL ROAD ASSESSMENT DISTRICT #4, OR SAINT LANDRY PARISH TOURIST COMMISSION SAINT MARY PARISH REC DISTRICT 2 SAINT MARY PARISH REC DISTRICT 3 SAINT TAMMANY FIRE DISTRICT 4, LA SALEM AREA MASS TRANSIT DISTRICT, OR 92 of 369 SALEM MASS TRANSIT DISTRICT SALEM SUBURBAN R.F.P.D., OR SALISHAN SANITARY DISTRICT, OR SALMON RIVER PARK SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR SALMON RIVER PARK WATER IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, OR SALMONBERRY TRAIL INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGENCY, OR SANDPIPER VILLAGE SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR SANDY DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENT COMPANY, OR SANDY R.F.P.D. #72, OR SANTA CLARA R.F.P.D., OR SANTA CLARA WATER DISTRICT, OR SANTIAM WATER CONTROL DISTRICT, OR SAUVIE ISLAND DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENT COMPANY, OR SAUVIE ISLAND VOLUNTEER FIRE DISTRICT #30J, OR SCAPPOOSE DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENT COMPANY, OR SCAPPOOSE PUBLIC LIBRARY DISTRICT, OR SCAPPOOSE R.F.P.D., OR SCIO R.F.P.D., OR SCOTTSBURG R.F.P.D., OR SEAL ROCK R.F.P.D., OR SEAL ROCK WATER DISTRICT, OR SEWERAGE AND WATER BOARD OF NEW ORLEANS, LA SHANGRI-LA WATER DISTRICT, OR SHASTA VIEW IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR SHELLEY ROAD CREST ACRES WATER DISTRICT, OR SHERIDAN FIRE DISTRICT, OR SHERMAN COUNTY HEALTH DISTRICT, OR SHERMAN COUNTY S.W.C.D., OR SHORELINE SANITARY DISTRICT, OR SILETZ KEYS SANITARY DISTRICT, OR SILETZ R.F.P.D., OR SILVER FALLS LIBRARY DISTRICT, OR SILVER LAKE IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR SILVER LAKE R.F.P.D., OR SILVER SANDS SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR SILVERTON R.F.P.D. NO. 2, OR SISTERS PARKS & RECREATION DISTRICT, OR SISTERS-CAMP SHERMAN R.F.P.D., OR SIUSLAW PUBLIC LIBRARY DISTRICT, OR SIUSLAW S.W.C.D., OR SIUSLAW VALLEY FIRE AND RESCUE, OR SIXES R.F.P.D., OR SKIPANON WATER CONTROL DISTRICT, OR SKYLINE VIEW DISTRICT IMPROVEMENT COMPANY, OR SLEEPY HOLLOW WATER DISTRICT, OR SMITH DITCH DISTRICT IMPROVEMENT COMPANY, OR SOUTH CLACKAMAS TRANSPORTATION DISTRICT, OR SOUTH COUNTY HEALTH DISTRICT, OR SOUTH FORK WATER BOARD, OR SOUTH GILLIAM COUNTY CEMETERY DISTRICT, OR SOUTH GILLIAM COUNTY HEALTH DISTRICT, OR SOUTH GILLIAM COUNTY R.F.P.D. VI-301, OR SOUTH LAFOURCHE LEVEE DISTRICT, LA SOUTH LANE COUNTY FIRE & RESCUE, OR SOUTH SANTIAM RIVER WATER CONTROL DISTRICT, OR SOUTH SHERMAN FIRE DISTRICT, OR SOUTH SUBURBAN SANITARY DISTRICT, OR SOUTH WASCO PARK & RECREATION DISTRICT, OR SOUTHERN COOS HEALTH DISTRICT, OR SOUTHERN CURRY CEMETERY MAINTENANCE DISTRICT, OR SOUTHVIEW IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, OR SOUTHWEST LINCOLN COUNTY WATER DISTRICT, OR SOUTHWESTERN POLK COUNTY R.F.P.D., OR SOUTHWOOD PARK WATER DISTRICT, OR SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT #1, OR 93 of 369 SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT #8, OR SPRING RIVER SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR SPRINGFIELD UTILITY BOARD, OR ST. PAUL R.F.P.D., OR STANFIELD CEMETERY DISTRICT #6, OR STANFIELD IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR STARR CREEK ROAD DISTRICT, OR STARWOOD SANITARY DISTRICT, OR STAYTON FIRE DISTRICT, OR SUBLIMITY FIRE DISTRICT, OR SUBURBAN EAST SALEM WATER DISTRICT, OR SUBURBAN LIGHTING DISTRICT, OR SUCCOR CREEK DISTRICT IMPROVEMENT COMPANY, OR SUMMER LAKE IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR SUMMERVILLE CEMETERY MAINTENANCE DISTRICT, OR SUMNER R.F.P.D., OR SUN MOUNTAIN SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR SUNDOWN SANITATION DISTRICT, OR SUNFOREST ESTATES SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR SUNNYSIDE IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR SUNRISE WATER AUTHORITY, OR SUNRIVER SERVICE DISTRICT, OR SUNSET EMPIRE PARK & RECREATION DISTRICT, OR SUNSET EMPIRE TRANSPORTATION DISTRICT, OR SURFLAND ROAD DISTRICT, OR SUTHERLIN VALLEY RECREATION DISTRICT, OR SUTHERLIN WATER CONTROL DISTRICT, OR SWALLEY IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR SWEET HOME CEMETERY MAINTENANCE DISTRICT, OR SWEET HOME FIRE & AMBULANCE DISTRICT, OR SWISSHOME-DEADWOOD R.F.P.D., OR TABLE ROCK DISTRICT IMPROVEMENT COMPANY, OR TALENT IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR TANGENT R.F.P.D., OR TENMILE R.F.P.D., OR TERREBONNE DOMESTIC WATER DISTRICT, OR THE DALLES IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR THOMAS CREEK-WESTSIDE R.F.P.D., OR THREE RIVERS RANCH ROAD DISTRICT, OR THREE SISTERS IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR TIGARD TUALATIN AQUATIC DISTRICT, OR TIGARD WATER DISTRICT, OR TILLAMOOK BAY FLOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, OR TILLAMOOK COUNTY EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS DISTRICT, OR TILLAMOOK COUNTY S.W .C.D., OR TILLAMOOK COUNTY TRANSPORTATION DISTRICT, OR TILLAMOOK FIRE DISTRICT, OR TILLAMOOK P.U.D., OR TILLER R.F.P.D., OR TOBIN DITCH DISTRICT IMPROVEMENT COMPANY, OR TOLEDO R.F.P.D., OR TONE WATER DISTRICT, OR TOOLEY WATER DISTRICT, OR TRASK DRAINAGE DISTRICT, OR TRI CITY R.F.P.D. #4, OR TRI-CITY WATER & SANITARY AUTHORITY, OR TRI-COUNTY METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION DISTRICT OF OREGON TRIMET, OR TUALATIN HILLS PARK & RECREATION DISTRICT TUALATIN HILLS PARK & RECREATION DISTRICT, OR TUALATIN S.W.C.D., OR TUALATIN VALLEY FIRE & RESCUE TUALATIN VALLEY FIRE & RESCUE, OR TUALATIN VALLEY IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR TUALATIN VALLEY WATER DISTRICT 94 of 369 TUALATIN VALLEY WATER DISTRICT, OR TUMALO IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR TURNER FIRE DISTRICT, OR TWIN ROCKS SANITARY DISTRICT, OR TWO RIVERS NORTH SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR TWO RIVERS S.W.C.D., OR TWO RIVERS SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR TYGH VALLEY R.F.P.D., OR TYGH VALLEY WATER DISTRICT, OR UMATILLA COUNTY FIRE DISTRICT #1, OR UMATILLA COUNTY S.W.C.D., OR UMATILLA COUNTY SPECIAL LIBRARY DISTRICT, OR UMATILLA HOSPITAL DISTRICT, OR UMATILLA R.F.P.D. #7-405, OR UMATILLA-MORROW RADIO AND DATA DISTRICT, OR UMPQUA S.W.C.D., OR UNION CEMETERY MAINTENANCE DISTRICT, OR UNION COUNTY SOLID W ASTE DISPOSAL DISTRICT, OR UNION COUNTY VECTOR CONTROL DISTRICT, OR UNION GAP SANITARY DISTRICT, OR UNION GAP WATER DISTRICT, OR UNION HEALTH DISTRICT, OR UNION R.F.P.D., OR UNION S.W.C.D., OR UNITY COMMUNITY PARK & RECREATION DISTRICT, OR UPPER CLEVELAND RAPIDS ROAD DISTRICT, OR UPPER MCKENZIE R.F.P.D., OR UPPER WILLAMETTE S.W .C.D., OR VALE OREGON IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR VALE RURAL FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT, OR VALLEY ACRES SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR VALLEY VIEW CEMETERY MAINTENANCE DISTRICT, OR VALLEY VIEW WATER DISTRICT, OR VANDEVERT ACRES SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR VERNONIA R.F.P.D., OR VINEYARD MOUNTAIN PARK & RECREATION DISTRICT, OR VINEYARD MOUNTAIN SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR WALLA WALLA RIVER IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR WALLOWA COUNTY HEALTH CARE DISTRICT, OR WALLOWA LAKE COUNTY SERVICE DISTRICT, OR WALLOWA LAKE IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR WALLOWA LAKE R.F.P.D., OR WALLOWA S.W.C.D., OR WALLOWA VALLEY IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT #1, OR WAMIC R.F.P.D., OR WAMIC WATER & SANITARY AUTHORITY, OR WARMSPRINGS IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR WASCO COUNTY S.W.C.D., OR WATER ENVIRONMENT SERVICES, OR WATER WONDERLAND IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, OR WATERBURY & ALLEN DITCH IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, OR WATSECO-BARVIEW WATER DISTRICT, OR WAUNA WATER DISTRICT, OR WEDDERBURN SANITARY DISTRICT, OR WEST EAGLE VALLEY WATER CONTROL DISTRICT, OR WEST EXTENSION IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR WEST LABISH DRAINAGE & WATER CONTROL IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, OR WEST MULTNOMAH S.W.C.D., OR WEST SIDE R.F.P.D., OR WEST SLOPE WATER DISTRICT, OR WEST UMATILLA MOSQUITO CONTROL DISTRICT, OR WEST VALLEY FIRE DISTRICT, OR WESTERN HEIGHTS SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR WESTERN LANE AMBULANCE DISTRICT, OR WESTLAND IRRIGATION DISTRICT, OR 95 of 369 WESTON ATHENA MEMORIAL HALL PARK & RECREATION DISTRICT, OR WESTON CEMETERY DISTRICT #2, OR WESTPORT FIRE AND RESCUE, OR WESTRIDGE WATER SUPPLY CORPORATION, OR WESTWOOD HILLS ROAD DISTRICT, OR WESTWOOD VILLAGE ROAD DISTRICT, OR WHEELER S.W.C.D., OR WHITE RIVER HEALTH DISTRICT, OR WIARD MEMORIAL PARK DISTRICT, OR WICKIUP WATER DISTRICT, OR WILLAKENZIE R.F.P.D., OR WILLAMALANE PARK & RECREATION DISTRICT, OR WILLAMALANE PARK AND RECREATION DISTRICT WILLAMETTE HUMANE SOCIETY WILLAMETTE RIVER WATER COALITION, OR WILLIAMS R.F.P.D., OR WILLOW CREEK PARK DISTRICT, OR WILLOW DALE WATER DISTRICT, OR WILSON RIVER WATER DISTRICT, OR WINCHESTER BAY R.F.P.D., OR WINCHESTER BAY SANITARY DISTRICT, OR WINCHUCK R.F.P.D., OR WINSTON-DILLARD R.F.P.D., OR WINSTON-DILLARD WATER DISTRICT, OR WOLF CREEK R.F.P.D., OR WOOD RIVER DISTRICT IMPROVEMENT COMPANY, OR WOODBURN R.F.P.D. NO. 6, OR WOODLAND PARK SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT, OR WOODS ROAD DISTRICT, OR WRIGHT CREEK ROAD WATER IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, OR WY'EAST FIRE DISTRICT, OR YACHATS R.F.P.D., OR YAMHILL COUNTY TRANSIT AREA, OR YAMHILL FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT, OR YAMHILL SWCD, OR YONCALLA PARK & RECREATION DISTRICT, OR YOUNGS RIVER-LEWIS & CLARK WATER DISTRICT, OR ZUMWALT R.F.P.D., OR K-12 INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO: ACADIA PARISH SCHOOL BOARD BEAVERTON SCHOOL DISTRICT BEND-LA PINE SCHOOL DISTRICT BOGALUSA HIGH SCHOOL, LA BOSSIER PARISH SCHOOL BOARD BROOKING HARBOR SCHOOL DISTRICT CADDO PARISH SCHOOL DISTRICT CALCASIEU PARISH SCHOOL DISTRICT CANBY SCHOOL DISTRICT CANYONVILLE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY CASCADE SCHOOL DISTRICT CASCADES ACADEMY OF CENTRAL OREGON CENTENNIAL SCHOOL DISTRICT CENTRAL CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL CENTRAL POINT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO.6 CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT 13J COOS BAY SCHOOL DISTRICT NO.9 CORVALLIS SCHOOL DISTRICT 509J COUNTY OF YAMHILL SCHOOL DISTRICT 29 CULVER SCHOOL DISTRICT DALLAS SCHOOL DISTRICT NO.2 DAVID DOUGLAS SCHOOL DISTRICT DAYTON SCHOOL DISTRICT NO.8 DE LA SALLE N CATHOLIC HS 96 of 369 DESCHUTES COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT NO.6 DOUGLAS EDUCATIONAL DISTRICT SERVICE DUFUR SCHOOL DISTRICT NO.29 EAST BATON ROUGE PARISH SCHOOL DISTRICT ESTACADA SCHOOL DISTRICT NO.10B FOREST GROVE SCHOOL DISTRICT GEORGE MIDDLE SCHOOL GLADSTONE SCHOOL DISTRICT GRANTS PASS SCHOOL DISTRICT 7 GREATER ALBANY PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT GRESHAM BARLOW JOINT SCHOOL DISTRICT HEAD START OF LANE COUNTY HIGH DESERT EDUCATION SERVICE DISTRICT HILLSBORO SCHOOL DISTRICT HOOD RIVER COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT JACKSON CO SCHOOL DIST NO.9 JEFFERSON COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT 509-J JEFFERSON PARISH SCHOOL DISTRICT JEFFERSON SCHOOL DISTRICT JUNCTION CITY SCHOOLS, OR KLAMATH COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT KLAMATH FALLS CITY SCHOOLS LAFAYETTE PARISH SCHOOL DISTRICT LAKE OSWEGO SCHOOL DISTRICT 7J LANE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT 4J LINCOLN COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT LINN CO. SCHOOL DIST. 95C LIVINGSTON PARISH SCHOOL DISTRICT LOST RIVER JR/SR HIGH SCHOOL LOWELL SCHOOL DISTRICT NO.71 MARION COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT MARION COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT 103 MARIST HIGH SCHOOL, OR MCMINNVILLE SCHOOL DISTRICT NOAO MEDFORD SCHOOL DISTRICT 549C MITCH CHARTER SCHOOL MONROE SCHOOL DISTRICT NO.1J MORROW COUNTY SCHOOL DIST, OR MULTNOMAH EDUCATION SERVICE DISTRICT MULTISENSORY LEARNING ACADEMY MYRTLE PINT SCHOOL DISTRICT 41 NEAH-KAH-NIE DISTRICT NO.56 NEWBERG PUBLIC SCHOOLS NESTUCCA VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT NO.101 NOBEL LEARNING COMMUNITIES NORTH BEND SCHOOL DISTRICT 13 NORTH CLACKAMAS SCHOOL DISTRICT NORTH DOUGLAS SCHOOL DISTRICT NORTH WASCO CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT 21 NORTHWEST REGIONAL EDUCATION SERVICE DISTRICT ONTARIO MIDDLE SCHOOL OREGON TRAIL SCHOOL DISTRICT NOA6 ORLEANS PARISH SCHOOL DISTRICT PHOENIX-TALENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NOA PLEASANT HILL SCHOOL DISTRICT PORTLAND JEWISH ACADEMY PORTLAND PUBLIC SCHOOLS RAPIDES PARISH SCHOOL DISTRICT REDMOND SCHOOL DISTRICT REYNOLDS SCHOOL DISTRICT ROGUE RIVER SCHOOL DISTRICT ROSEBURG PUBLIC SCHOOLS SCAPPOOSE SCHOOL DISTRICT 1J SAINT TAMMANY PARISH SCHOOL BOARD, LA SEASIDE SCHOOL DISTRICT 10 97 of 369 SHERWOOD SCHOOL DISTRICT 88J SILVER FALLS SCHOOL DISTRICT 4J SOUTH LANE SCHOOL DISTRICT 45J3 SOUTHERN OREGON EDUCATION SERVICE DISTRICT SPRINGFIELD PUBLIC SCHOOLS SUTHERLIN SCHOOL DISTRICT SW EET HOME SCHOOL DISTRICT NO.55 TERREBONNE PARISH SCHOOL DISTRICT THE CATLIN GABEL SCHOOL TIGARD-TUALATIN SCHOOL DISTRICT UMATILLA MORROW ESD WEST LINN WILSONVILLE SCHOOL DISTRICT WILLAMETTE EDUCATION SERVICE DISTRICT WOODBURN SCHOOL DISTRICT YONCALLA SCHOOL DISTRICT ACADEMY FOR MATH ENGINEERING & SCIENCE (AMES), UT ALIANZA ACADEMY, UT ALPINE DISTRICT, UT AMERICAN LEADERSHIP ACADEMY, UT AMERICAN PREPARATORY ACADEMY, UT BAER CANYON HIGH SCHOOL FOR SPORTS & MEDICAL SCIENCES, UT BEAR RIVER CHARTER SCHOOL, UT BEAVER SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT BEEHIVE SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY ACADEMY (BSTA) , UT BOX ELDER SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT CBA CENTER, UT CACHE SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT CANYON RIM ACADEMY, UT CANYONS DISTRICT, UT CARBON SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT CHANNING HALL, UT CHARTER SCHOOL LEWIS ACADEMY, UT CITY ACADEMY, UT DAGGETT SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT DAVINCI ACADEMY, UT DAVIS DISTRICT, UT DUAL IMMERSION ACADEMY, UT DUCHESNE SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT EARLY LIGHT ACADEMY AT DAYBREAK, UT EAST HOLLYWOOD HIGH, UT EDITH BOWEN LABORATORY SCHOOL, UT EMERSON ALCOTT ACADEMY, UT EMERY SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT ENTHEOS ACADEMY, UT EXCELSIOR ACADEMY, UT FAST FORWARD HIGH, UT FREEDOM ACADEMY, UT GARFIELD SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT GATEWAY PREPARATORY ACADEMY, UT GEORGE WASHINGTON ACADEMY, UT GOOD FOUNDATION ACADEMY, UT GRAND SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT GRANITE DISTRICT, UT GUADALUPE SCHOOL, UT HAWTHORN ACADEMY, UT INTECH COLLEGIATE HIGH SCHOOL, UT IRON SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT ITINERIS EARLY COLLEGE HIGH, UT JOHN HANCOCK CHARTER SCHOOL, UT JORDAN DISTRICT, UT JUAB SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT KANE SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT KARL G MAESER PREPARATORY ACADEMY, UT LAKEVIEW ACADEMY, UT LEGACY PREPARATORY ACADEMY, UT 98 of 369 LIBERTY ACADEMY, UT LINCOLN ACADEMY, UT LOGAN SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT MARIA MONTESSORI ACADEMY, UT MERIT COLLEGE PREPARATORY ACADEMY, UT MILLARD SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT MOAB CHARTER SCHOOL, UT MONTICELLO ACADEMY, UT MORGAN SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT MOUNTAINVILLE ACADEMY, UT MURRAY SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT NAVIGATOR POINTE ACADEMY, UT NEBO SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT NO UT ACAD FOR MATH ENGINEERING & SCIENCE (NUAMES), UT NOAH WEBSTER ACADEMY, UT NORTH DAVIS PREPARATORY ACADEMY, UT NORTH SANPETE SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT NORTH STAR ACADEMY, UT NORTH SUMMIT SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT ODYSSEY CHARTER SCHOOL, UT OGDEN PREPARATORY ACADEMY, UT OGDEN SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT OPEN CLASSROOM, UT OPEN HIGH SCHOOL OF UTAH, UT OQUIRRH MOUNTAIN CHARTER SCHOOL, UT PARADIGM HIGH SCHOOL, UT PARK CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT PINNACLE CANYON ACADEMY, UT PIUTE SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT PROVIDENCE HALL, UT PROVO SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT QUAIL RUN PRIMARY SCHOOL, UT QUEST ACADEMY, UT RANCHES ACADEMY, UT REAGAN ACADEMY, UT RENAISSANCE ACADEMY, UT RICH SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT ROCKWELL CHARTER HIGH SCHOOL, UT SALT LAKE ARTS ACADEMY, UT SALT LAKE CENTER FOR SCIENCE EDUCATION, UT SALT LAKE SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT SALT LAKE SCHOOL FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, UT SAN JUAN SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT SEVIER SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT SOLDIER HOLLOW CHARTER SCHOOL, UT SOUTH SANPETE SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT SOUTH SUMMIT SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT SPECTRUM ACADEMY, UT SUCCESS ACADEMY, UT SUCCESS SCHOOL, UT SUMMIT ACADEMY, UT SUMMIT ACADEMY HIGH SCHOOL, UT SYRACUSE ARTS ACADEMY, UT THOMAS EDISON - NORTH, UT TIMPANOGOS ACADEMY, UT TINTIC SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT TOOELE SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT TUACAHN HIGH SCHOOL FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, UT UINTAH RIVER HIGH, UT UINTAH SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT UTAH CONNECTIONS ACADEMY, UT UTAH COUNTY ACADEMY OF SCIENCE, UT UTAH ELECTRONIC HIGH SCHOOL, UT UTAH SCHOOLS FOR DEAF & BLIND, UT UTAH STATE OFFICE OF EDUCATION, UT 99 of 369 UTAH VIRTUAL ACADEMY, UT VENTURE ACADEMY, UT VISTA AT ENTRADA SCHOOL OF PERFORMING ARTS AND TECHNOLOGY, UT WALDEN SCHOOL OF LIBERAL ARTS, UT WASATCH PEAK ACADEMY, UT WASATCH SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT WASHINGTON SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT WAYNE SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT WEBER SCHOOL DISTRICT, UT WEILENMANN SCHOOL OF DISCOVERY, UT HIGHER EDUCATION ARGOSY UNIVERSITY BATON ROUGE COMMUNITY COLLEGE, LA BIRTHINGWAY COLLEGE OF MIDWIFERY BLUE MOUNTAIN COMMUNITY COLLEGE BRIGHAM YOUNG UNIVERSITY - HAWAII CENTRAL OREGON COMMUNITY COLLEGE CENTENARY COLLEGE OF LOUISIANA CHEMEKETA COMMUNITY COLLEGE CLACKAMAS COMMUNITY COLLEGE COLLEGE OF THE MARSHALL ISLANDS COLUMBIA GORGE COMMUNITY COLLEGE CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY GEORGE FOX UNIVERSITY KLAMATH COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT LANE COMMUNITY COLLEGE LEWIS AND CLARK COLLEGE LINFIELD COLLEGE LINN-BENTON COMMUNITY COLLEGE LOUISIANA COLLEGE, LA LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY HEALTH SERVICES MARYLHURST UNIVERSITY MT. HOOD COMMUNITY COLLEGE MULTNOMAH BIBLE COLLEGE NATIONAL COLLEGE OF NATURAL MEDICINE NORTHWEST CHRISTIAN COLLEGE OREGON HEALTH AND SCIENCE UNIVERSITY OREGON INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY OREGON UNIVERSITY SYSTEM PACIFIC UNIVERSITY PIONEER PACIFIC COLLEGE PORTLAND COMMUNITY COLLEGE PORTLAND STATE UNIVERSITY REED COLLEGE RESEARCH CORPORATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII ROGUE COMMUNITY COLLEGE SOUTHEASTERN LOUISIANA UNIVERSITY SOUTHERN OREGON UNIVERSITY (OREGON UNIVERSITY SYSTEM) SOUTHWESTERN OREGON COMMUNITY COLLEGE TULANE UNIVERSITY TILLAMOOK BAY COMMUNITY COLLEGE UMPQUA COMMUNITY COLLEGE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII BOARD OF REGENTS UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII-HONOLULU COMMUNITY COLLEGE UNIVERSITY OF OREGON-GRADUATE SCHOOL UNIVERSITY OF PORTLAND UNIVERSITY OF NEW ORLEANS WESTERN OREGON UNIVERSITY WESTERN STATES CHIROPRACTIC COLLEGE WILLAMETTE UNIVERSITY XAVIER UNIVERSITY UTAH SYSTEM OF HIGHER EDUCATION, UT 100 of 369 UNIVERSITY OF UTAH, UT UTAH STATE UNIVERSITY, UT WEBER STATE UNIVERSITY, UT SOUTHERN UTAH UNIVERSITY, UT SNOW COLLEGE, UT DIXIE STATE COLLEGE, UT COLLEGE OF EASTERN UTAH, UT UTAH VALLEY UNIVERSITY, UT SALT LAKE COMMUNITY COLLEGE, UT UTAH COLLEGE OF APPLIED TECHNOLOGY, UT STATE AGENCIES ADMIN. SERVICES OFFICE BOARD OF MEDICAL EXAMINERS HAWAII CHILD SUPPORT ENFORCEMENT AGENCY HAWAII DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION HAWAII HEALTH SYSTEMS CORPORATION OFFICE OF MEDICAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS OFFICE OF THE STATE TREASURER OREGON BOARD OF ARCHITECTS OREGON CHILD DEVELOPMENT COALITION OREGON DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION OREGON DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY OREGON DEPT OF TRANSPORTATION OREGON DEPT. OF EDUCATION OREGON LOTTERY OREGON OFFICE OF ENERGY OREGON STATE BOARD OF NURSING OREGON STATE DEPT OF CORRECTIONS OREGON STATE POLICE OREGON TOURISM COMMISSION OREGON TRAVEL INFORMATION COUNCIL SANTIAM CANYON COMMUNICATION CENTER SEIU LOCAL 503, OPEU SOH- JUDICIARY CONTRACTS AND PURCH STATE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE, STATE OF HAWAII STATE OF HAWAII STATE OF HAWAII, DEPT. OF EDUCATION STATE OF LOUISIANA STATE OF LOUISIANA DEPT. OF EDUCATION STATE OF LOUISIANA, 26 JUDICIAL DISTRICT ATTORNEY STATE OF UTAH 101 of 369 7145 West Tidwell Road ~ Houston, Texas 77092 (713)-462-7708 .www.esc4.net NOTICE TO OFFEROR ADDENDUM NO. 1 Solicitation Number 19-18 Request for Proposal (“RFP”) by Region 4 Education Service Center (“ESC”) for Furniture, Installation, and Related Services This Addendum No. 1 amends the Request for Proposals (RFP) for Furniture, Installation, and Related Services 19-18 (“Addendum”). To the extent of any discrepancy between the original RFP and this Addendum, this Addendum shall prevail. Region 4 Education Service Center (“Region 4 ESC”) requests proposals from qualified suppliers with the intent to enter into a Contract for Furniture, Installation, and Related Services. Addendum No. 1 is hereby issued as follows: CLARIFICATIONS: 1.The changes being made to this RFP are being made to add Appendix C Documents #5- 7 in order to fulfill FEMA requirements. While it is not expected that the services outlined in this RFP would be utilized in a disaster recovery or emergency situation, Region 4 ESC is including language should it be needed. CHANGES TO THE RFP: 1.Remove Appendix C, Additional Required Documents, and replace with the version attached to this Addendum No. 2. This is the Appendix C that should be used for this solicitation and submitted as part of the Offeror’s proposal. 102 of 369 Appendix C ADDITIONAL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS DOC #1 Acknowledgment and Acceptance of Region 4 ESC’s Open Records Policy DOC #2 Antitrust Certification Statements (Tex. Government Code § 2155.005) DOC #3 Implementation of House Bill 1295 Certificate of Interested Parties (Form 1295) DOC #4 Texas Government Code 2270 Verification Form DOC #5 Special Conditions DOC #6 Questionnaire DOC #7 For applicable construction/reconstruction/renovation and related services, a bid guarantee is required not less than five percent (5%) of the total bid. Surety shall provide a copy of the Power of Attorney authorizing the Executing Agent the authority to execute the bid bond documents and bind the Surety to the bid bond conditions. The bid bond shall have a corporate Surety that is licensed to conduct business in Texas and authorized to underwrite bonds in the amount of the bid bond. 103 of 369 Appendix C, Doc #1 ACKNOWLEDGMENT AND ACCEPTANCE OF REGION 4 ESC’s OPEN RECORDS POLICY OPEN RECORDS POLICY All proposals, information and documents submitted are subject to the Public Information Act requirements governed by the State of Texas once a Contract(s) is executed. If an Offeror believes its response, or parts of its response, may be exempted from disclosure, the Offeror must specify page-by-page and line-by-line the parts of the response, which it believes, are exempt and include detailed reasons to substantiate the exemption. Price is not confidential and will not be withheld. Any unmarked information will be considered public information and released, if requested under the Public Information Act. The determination of whether information is confidential and not subject to disclosure is the duty of the Office of Attorney General (OAG). Region 4 ESC must provide the OAG sufficient information to render an opinion and therefore, vague and general claims to confidentiality by the Offeror are not acceptable. Region 4 ESC must comply with the opinions of the OAG. Region 4 ESC assumes no responsibility for asserting legal arguments on behalf of any Offeror. Offeror is advised to consult with their legal counsel concerning disclosure issues resulting from this procurement process and to take precautions to safeguard trade secrets and other proprietary information. Signature below certifies complete acceptance of Region 4 ESC’s Open Records Policy, except as noted below (additional pages may be attached, if necessary). Check one of the following responses to the Acknowledgment and Acceptance of Region 4 ESC’s Open Records Policy below:  We acknowledge Region 4 ESC’s Open Records Policy and declare that no information submitted with this proposal, or any part of our proposal, is exempt from disclosure under the Public Information Act.  We declare the following information to be a trade secret or proprietary and exempt from disclosure under the Public Information Act. (Note: Offeror must specify page-by-page and line-by-line the parts of the response, which it believes, are exempt. In addition, Offeror must include detailed reasons to substantiate the exemption(s). Price is not confident and will not be withheld. All information believed to be a trade secret or proprietary must be listed. It is further understood that failure to identify such information, in strict accordance with the instructions, will result in that information being considered public information and released, if requested under the Public Information Act.) Date Authorized Signature & Title 104 of 369 Appendix C, Doc #2 ANTITRUST CERTIFICATION STATEMENTS (Tex. Government Code § 2155.005) Attorney General Form I affirm under penalty of perjury of the laws of the State of Texas that: 1. I am duly authorized to execute this Contract on my own behalf or on behalf of the company, corporation, firm, partnership or individual (Company) listed below; 2. In connection with this proposal, neither I nor any representative of the Company has violated any provision of the Texas Free Enterprise and Antitrust Act, Tex. Bus. & Comm. Code Chapter 15; 3. In connection with this proposal, neither I nor any representative of the Company has violated any federal antitrust law; and 4. Neither I nor any representative of the Company has directly or indirectly communicated any of the contents of this proposal to a competitor of the Company or any other company, corporation, firm, partnership or individual engaged in the same line of business as the Company. Company Contact Signature Printed Name Address Position with Company Official Authorizing Proposal Signature Phone Printed Name Fax Position with Company 105 of 369 Appendix C, DOC # 3 Implementation of House Bill 1295 Certificate of Interested Parties (Form 1295): In 2015, the Texas Legislature adopted House Bill 1295, which added section 2252.908 of the Government Code. The law states that a governmental entity or state agency may not enter into certain contracts with a business entity unless the business entity submits a disclosure of interested parties to the governmental entity or state agency at the time the business entity submits the signed contract to the governmental entity or state agency. The law applies only to a contract of a governmental entity or state agency that either (1) requires an action or vote by the governing body of the entity or agency before the contract may be signed or (2) has a value of at least $1 million. The disclosure requirement applies to a contract entered into on or after January 1, 2016. The Texas Ethics Commission was required to adopt rules necessary to implement that law, prescribe the disclosure of interested parties form, and post a copy of the form on the commission’s website. The commission adopted the Certificate of Interested Parties form (Form 1295) on October 5, 2015. The commission also adopted new rules (Chapter 46) on November 30, 2015, to implement the law. The commission does not have any additional authority to enforce or interpret House Bill 1295. Filing Process: Staring on January 1, 2016, the commission made available on its website a new filing application that must be used to file Form 1295. A business entity must use the application to enter the required information on Form 1295 and print a copy of the completed form, which will include a certification of filing that will contain a unique certification number. An authorized agent of the business entity must sign the printed copy of the form. The completed Form 1295 with the certification of filing must be filed with the governmental body or state agency with which the business entity is entering into the contract. The governmental entity or state agency must notify the commission, using the commission’s filing application, of the receipt of the filed Form 1295 with the certification of filing not later than the 30th day after the date the contract binds all parties to the contract. This process is known as acknowledging the certificate. The commission will post the acknowledged Form 1295 to its website within seven business days after receiving notice from the governmental entity or state agency. The posted acknowledged form does not contain the declaration of signature information provided by the business. A certificate will stay in the pending state until it is acknowledged by the governmental agency. Only acknowledged certificates are posted to the commission’s website. Electronic Filing Application: https://www.ethics.state.tx.us/whatsnew/elf info form1295.htm Frequently Asked Questions: https://www.ethics.state.tx.us/resources/FAQs/FAQ Form1295.php Changes to Form 1295: https://www.ethics.state.tx.us/data/filinginfo/1295Changes.pdf 106 of 369 Appendix C, DOC # 4 Texas Government Code 2270 Verification Form House Bill 89 (85R Legislative Session), which adds Chapter 2270 to the Texas Government Code, provides that a governmental entity may not enter into a contract with a company without verification that the contracting vendor does not and will not boycott Israel during the term of the contract. Furthermore, Senate Bill 252 (85R Legislative Session), which amends Chapter 2252 of the Texas Government Code to add Subchapter F, prohibits contracting with a company engaged in business with Iran, Sudan or a foreign terrorist organization identified on a list prepared by the Texas Comptroller. I, ___________________________________________________, as an authorized representative of _____________________________________________________________, a contractor engaged by Insert Name of Company Region 4 Education Service Center, 7145 West Tidwell Road, Houston, TX 77092, verify by this writing that the above-named company affirms that it (1) does not boycott Israel; and (2) will not boycott Israel during the term of this contract, or any contract with the above-named Texas governmental entity in the future. Also, our company is not listed on and we do not do business with companies that are on the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts list of Designated Foreign Terrorists Organizations found at https://comptroller.texas.gov/purchasing/docs/foreign-terrorist.pdf. I further affirm that if our company's position on this issue is reversed and this affirmation is no longer valid, that the above-named Texas governmental entity will be notified in writing within one (1) business day and we understand that our company's failure to affirm and comply with the requirements of Texas Government Code 2270 et seq. shall be grounds for immediate contract termination without penalty to the above-named Texas governmental entity. I swear and affirm that the above is true and correct. ______________________________________________ ________________ Signature of Named Authorized Company Representative Date 107 of 369 Appendix C, DOC # 5 SPECIAL CONDITIONS Awarded Offerors may need to respond to events and losses where products and services are needed for the immediate and initial response to emergency situations such as, but not limited to, water damage, fire damage, vandalism cleanup, biohazard cleanup, sewage decontamination, deodorization, and/or wind damage during a disaster or emergency situation. By submitting a proposal, the Offeror is accepted these Special Conditions required by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Conflicts of Interest No employee, officer, or agent may participate in the selection, award, or administration of a contract supported by a FEMA award if he or she has a real or apparent conflict of interest. Such a conflict would arise when the employee, officer, or agent, any member of his or her immediate family, his or her partner, or an organization which employs or is about to employ any of these parties, has a financial or other interest in or a tangible personal benefit from a firm considered for award. 2 C.F.R. § 200.318(c)(1); See also Standard Form 424D, ¶ 7; Standard Form 424B, ¶ 3. i. FEMA considers a “financial interest” to be the potential for gain or loss to the employee, officer, or agent, any member of his or her immediate family, his or her partner, or an organization which employs or is about to employ any of these parties as a result of the particular procurement. The prohibited financial interest may arise from ownership of certain financial instruments or investments such as stock, bonds, or real estate, or from a salary, indebtedness, job offer, or similar interest that might be affected by the particular procurement. ii. FEMA considers an “apparent” conflict of interest to exist where an actual conflict does not exist, but where a reasonable person with knowledge of the relevant facts would question the impartiality of the employee, officer, or agent participating in the procurement. c. Gifts. The officers, employees, and agents of Region 4 ESC nor the Participating Public Agency (“NFE”) must neither solicit nor accept gratuities, favors, or anything of monetary value from contractors or parties to subcontracts. However, NFE’s may set standards for situations in which the financial interest is de minimus, not substantial, or the gift is an unsolicited item of nominal value. 2 C.F.R. § 200.318(c)(1). d. Violations. The NFE’s written standards of conduct must provide for disciplinary actions to be applied for violations of such standards by officers, employees, or agents of the NFE. 2 C.F.R. § 200.318(c)(1). For example, the penalty for a NFE’s employee may be dismissal, and the penalty for a contractor might be the termination of the contract. Contractor Integrity A contractor must have a satisfactory record of integrity and business ethics. Contractors that are debarred or suspended as described in Chapter III, ¶ 6.d must be rejected and cannot receive contract awards at any level. 108 of 369 Public Policy A contractor must comply with the public policies of the Federal Government and state, local government, or tribal government. This includes, among other things, past and current compliance with the: a. Equal opportunity and nondiscrimination laws b. Five affirmative steps described at 2 C.F.R. § 200.321(b) for all subcontracting under contracts supported by FEMA financial assistance; and FEMA Procurement Guidance June 21, 2016 Page IV- 7 c. Applicable prevailing wage laws, regulations, and executive orders Affirmative Steps For any subcontracting opportunities, Contractor must take the following Affirmative steps: 1. Placing qualified small and minority businesses and women's business enterprises on solicitation lists; 2. Assuring that small and minority businesses, and women's business enterprises are solicited whenever they are potential sources; 3. Dividing total requirements, when economically feasible, into smaller tasks or quantities to permit maximum participation by small and minority businesses, and women's business enterprises; 4. Establishing delivery schedules, where the requirement permits, which encourage participation by small and minority businesses, and women's business enterprises; and 5. Using the services and assistance, as appropriate, of such organizations as the Small Business Administration and the Minority Business Development Agency of the Department of Commerce; Bid Guarantee For proposals that are to include construction/reconstruction/renovation and related services, bids must be accompanied by Certified or Cashier's Check or an approved Bid Bond in the amount of not less than five percent (5%) of the total bid. Surety shall provide a copy of the Power of Attorney authorizing the Executing Agent the authority to execute the bid bond documents and bind the Surety to the bid bond conditions. The bid bond shall have a corporate Surety that is licensed to conduct business in the state of the lead agency and authorized to underwrite bonds in the amount of the bid bond. Prevailing Wage Requirements When applicable, the awarded Contractor(s) and any and all subcontractor(s) agree to comply with all laws regarding prevailing wage rates including the Davis-Bacon Act, applicable to this solicitation and/or Participating Public Agencies. The Participating Public Agency shall notify the Contractor of the applicable pricing/prevailing wage rates and must apply any local wage rates requested. The Contractor and any subcontractor(s) shall comply with the prevailing wage rates set by the Participating Public Agency. 109 of 369 Alternative Pricing for Federal Funding When applicable, such as when products and services are used in response to an emergency or disaster recovery situation in which federal funding may be used, pricing may not include cost plus a percentage of cost or pricing based on time and materials. If time and materials is necessary in an applicable federal funding situation, a ceiling price that the contract exceeds at its own risk will be needed. In addition, Offeror is subject to and must comply with all federal requirements applicable to the funding including, but not limited, the to the 2 C.F.R. § 200.326 and 2 C.F.R. Part 200, Appendix II, Required Contract Clauses. Federal Requirements If products and services are issued in response to an emergency or disaster recovery the items below, located in this Special Conditions section of the Federal Funds Certifications, are activated and required when federal funding may be utilized. 2 C.F.R. § 200.326 and 2 C.F.R. Part 200, Appendix II, Required Contract Clauses 1. Termination for Convenience: The right to terminate this Contract for the convenience of Region 4 ESC is retained by Region 4 ESC. In the event of a termination for convenience by Region 4 ESC, Region 4 ESC shall, at least ten (10) calendar days in advance, deliver written notice of the termination for convenience to Contractor. Upon Contractor’s receipt of such written notice, Contractor immediately shall cease the performance of the Work and shall take reasonable and appropriate action to secure and protect the Work then in place. Contractor shall then be paid by Region 4 ESC, in accordance with the terms and provisions of the Contract Documents, an amount not to exceed the actual labor costs incurred, the actual cost of all materials installed and the actual cost of all materials stored at the project site or away from the project site, as approved in writing by Region 4 ESC but not yet paid for and which cannot be returned, and actual, reasonable and documented demobilization costs, if any, paid by Contractor and approved by Region 4 ESC in connection with the Scope of Work in place which is completed as of the date of termination by Region 4 ESC and that is in conformance with the Contract Documents, less all amounts previously paid for the Work. No amount ever shall be owed or paid to Contractor for lost or anticipated profits on any part of the Scope of Work not performed or for consequential damages of any kind. 2. Equal Employment Opportunity: Region 4 ESC highly encourages Contractors to implement Affirmative Action practices in their employment programs. This means Contractor should not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, political belief or affiliation, age, disability or genetic information. During the performance of this contract, the contractor agrees as follows: (1) The contractor will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin. The contractor will take affirmative action to ensure that applicants are employed, and that employees are treated during employment, without regard to their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin. Such action shall include, but not be limited to the following: 110 of 369 Employment, upgrading, demotion, or transfer, recruitment or recruitment advertising; layoff or termination; rates of pay or other forms of compensation; and selection for training, including apprenticeship. The contractor agrees to post in conspicuous places, available to employees and applicants for employment, notices to be provided by the contracting officer setting forth the provisions of this nondiscrimination clause. (2) The contractor will, in all solicitations or advertisements for employees placed by or on behalf of the contractor, state that all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin. (3) The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because such employee or applicant has inquired about, discussed, or disclosed the compensation of the employee or applicant or another employee or applicant. This provision shall not apply to instances in which an employee who has access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of such employee's essential job functions discloses the compensation of such other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to such information, unless such disclosure is in response to a formal complaint or charge, in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or is consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. (4) The contractor will send to each labor union or representative of workers with which it has a collective bargaining agreement or other contract or understanding, a notice to be provided by the agency contracting officer, advising the labor union or workers' representative of the contractor's commitments under section 202 of Executive Order 11246 of September 24, 1965, and shall post copies of the notice in conspicuous places available to employees and applicants for employment. (5) The contractor will comply with all provisions of Executive Order 11246 of September 24, 1965, and of the rules, regulations, and relevant orders of the Secretary of Labor. (6) The contractor will furnish all information and reports required by Executive Order 11246 of September 24, 1965, and by the rules, regulations, and orders of the Secretary of Labor, or pursuant thereto, and will permit access to his books, records, and accounts by the contracting agency and the Secretary of Labor for purposes of investigation to ascertain compliance with such rules, regulations, and orders. (7) In the event of the contractor's non-compliance with the nondiscrimination clauses of this contract or with any of such rules, regulations, or orders, this contract may be canceled, terminated or suspended in whole or in part and the contractor may be declared ineligible for further Government contracts in accordance with procedures authorized in Executive Order 11246 of September 24, 1965, and such other sanctions may be imposed and remedies invoked as provided in Executive Order 11246 of September 24, 1965, or by rule, regulation, or order of the Secretary of Labor, or as otherwise provided by law. (8) The contractor will include the provisions of paragraphs (1) through (8) in every subcontract or purchase order unless exempted by rules, regulations, or orders of the Secretary of Labor issued pursuant to section 204 of Executive Order 11246 of September 24, 1965, so that such provisions will be binding upon each subcontractor or vendor. The contractor will take such action with respect to any subcontract or purchase order as may be directed by the Secretary of Labor as a means of enforcing such provisions including sanctions for noncompliance: Provided, however, that in the event the contractor becomes involved in, or is threatened with, litigation with a subcontractor or vendor as a result of such direction, the 111 of 369 contractor may request the United States to enter into such litigation to protect the interests of the United States. 3. “During the performance of this contract, the contractor agrees as follows: (1) The contractor will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. The contractor will take affirmative action to ensure that applicants are employed, and that employees are treated during employment without regard to their race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Such action shall include, but not be limited to the following: Employment, upgrading, demotion, or transfer; recruitment or recruitment advertising; layoff or termination; rates of pay or other forms of compensation; and selection for training, including apprenticeship. The contractor agrees to post in conspicuous places, available to employees and applicants for employment, notices to be provided setting forth the provisions of this nondiscrimination clause. (2) The contractor will, in all solicitations or advertisements for employees placed by or on behalf of the contractor, state that all qualified applicants will receive considerations for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. (3) The contractor will send to each labor union or representative of workers with which he has a collective bargaining agreement or other contract or understanding, a notice to be provided advising the said labor union or workers' representatives of the contractor's commitments under this section, and shall post copies of the notice in conspicuous places available to employees and applicants for employment. (4) The contractor will comply with all provisions of Executive Order 11246 of September 24, 1965, and of the rules, regulations, and relevant orders of the Secretary of Labor. (5) The contractor will furnish all information and reports required by Executive Order 11246 of September 24, 1965, and by rules, regulations, and orders of the Secretary of Labor, or pursuant thereto, and will permit access to his books, records, and accounts by the administering agency and the Secretary of Labor for purposes of investigation to ascertain compliance with such rules, regulations, and orders. (6) In the event of the contractor's noncompliance with the nondiscrimination clauses of this contract or with any of the said rules, regulations, or orders, this contract may be canceled, terminated, or suspended in whole or in part and the contractor may be declared ineligible for further Government contracts or federally assisted construction contracts in accordance with procedures authorized in Executive Order 11246 of September 24, 1965, and such other sanctions as may be imposed and remedies invoked as provided in Executive Order 11246 of September 24, 1965, or by rule, regulation, or order of the Secretary of Labor, or as otherwise provided by law. 112 of 369 (7) The contractor will include the portion of the sentence immediately preceding paragraph (1) and the provisions of paragraphs (1) through (7) in every subcontract or purchase order unless exempted by rules, regulations, or orders of the Secretary of Labor issued pursuant to section 204 of Executive Order 11246 of September 24, 1965, so that such provisions will be binding upon each subcontractor or vendor. The contractor will take such action with respect to any subcontract or purchase order as the administering agency may direct as a means of enforcing such provisions, including sanctions for noncompliance: Provided, however, That in the event a contractor becomes involved in, or is threatened with, litigation with a subcontractor or vendor as a result of such direction by the administering agency the contractor may request the United States to enter into such litigation to protect the interests of the United States.” 4. Davis Bacon Act and Copeland Anti-Kickback Act. a. Applicability of Davis-Bacon Act. The Davis-Bacon Act only applies to the emergency Management Preparedness Grant Program, Homeland Security Grant Program, Nonprofit Security Grant Program, Tribal Homeland Security Grant Program, Port Security Grant Program, and Transit Security Grant Program. It does not apply to other FEMA grant and cooperative agreement programs, including the Public Assistance Program. b. All prime construction contracts in excess of $2,000 awarded by non-Federal entities must include a provision for compliance with the Davis-Bacon Act (40 U.S.C. §§ 3141-3144 and 3146-3148) as supplemented by Department of Labor regulations at 29 C.F.R. Part 5 (Labor Standards Provisions Applicable to Contracts Covering Federally Financed and Assisted Construction)). See 2 C.F.R. Part 200, Appendix II, ¶ D. c. In accordance with the statute, contractors must be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the prevailing wages specified in a wage determination made by the Secretary of Labor. In addition, contractors must be required to pay wages not less than once a week. d. The non-Federal entity must place a copy of the current prevailing wage determination issued by the Department of Labor in each solicitation. The decision to award a contract or subcontract must be conditioned upon the acceptance of the wage determination. The non-Federal entity must report all suspected or reported violations to the Federal awarding agency. e. In contracts subject to the Davis-Bacon Act, the contracts must also include a provision for compliance with the Copeland “Anti-Kickback” Act (40 U.S.C. § 3145), as supplemented by Department of Labor regulations at 29 C.F.R. Part 3 (Contractors and Subcontractors on Public Building or Public Work Financed in Whole or in Part by Loans or Grants from the United States). The Copeland Anti- Kickback Act provides that each contractor or subrecipient must be prohibited from inducing, by any means, any person employed in the construction, completion, or repair of public work, to give up any part of the 113 of 369 compensation to which he or she is otherwise entitled. The non-Federal entity must report all suspected or reported violations to FEMA. f. The regulation at 29 C.F.R. § 5.5(a) does provide the required contract clause that applies to compliance with both the Davis-Bacon and Copeland Acts. However, as discussed in the previous subsection, the Davis-Bacon Act does not apply to Public Assistance recipients and subrecipients. In situations where the Davis-Bacon Act does not apply, neither does the Copeland “Anti-Kickback Act.” However, for purposes of grant programs where both clauses do apply, FEMA requires the following contract clause: “Compliance with the Copeland “Anti-Kickback” Act. (1) Contractor. The contractor shall comply with 18 U.S.C. § 874, 40U.S.C. § 3145, and the requirements of 29 C.F.R. pt. 3 as may be applicable, which are incorporated by reference into this contract. (2) Subcontracts. The contractor or subcontractor shall insert in any subcontracts the clause above and such other clauses as the FEMA may by appropriate instructions require, and also a clause requiring the subcontractors to include these clauses in any lower tier subcontracts. The prime contractor shall be responsible for the compliance by any subcontractor or lower tier subcontractor with all of these contract clauses (3) Breach. A breach of the contract clauses above may be grounds for termination of the contract, and for debarment as a contractor and subcontractor as provided in 29 C.F.R. § 5.12.” 5. Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act. a. Applicability: This requirement applies to all FEMA grant and cooperative agreement programs. b. Where applicable (see 40 U.S.C. § 3701), all contracts awarded by the non- Federal entity in excess of $100,000 that involve the employment of mechanics or laborers must include a provision for compliance with 40 U.S.C. §§ 3702 and 3704, as supplemented by Department of Labor regulations at 29 C.F.R. Part 5. See 2 C.F.R. Part 200, Appendix II, ¶ E. c. Under 40 U.S.C. § 3702, each contractor must be required to compute the wages of every mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work week of 40 hours. Work in excess of the standard work week is permissible provided that the worker is compensated at a rate of not less than one and a half times the basic rate of pay for all hours worked in excess of 40 hours in the work week. d. The requirements of 40 U.S.C. § 3704 are applicable to construction work and provide that no laborer or mechanic must be required to work in surroundings or under working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous or dangerous. These requirements do not apply to the purchases of supplies or materials or 114 of 369 articles ordinarily available on the open market, or contracts for transportation or transmission of intelligence. e. The regulation at 29 C.F.R. § 5.5(b) provides the required contract clause concerning compliance with the Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act: “Compliance with the Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act. (1) Overtime requirements. No contractor or subcontractor contracting for any part of the contract work which may require or involve the employment of laborers or mechanics shall require or permit any such laborer or mechanic in any workweek in which he or she is employed on such work to work in excess of forty hours in such workweek unless such laborer or mechanic receives compensation at a rate not less than one and one-half times the basic rate of pay for all hours worked in excess of forty hours in such workweek. (2) Violation; liability for unpaid wages; liquidated damages. In the event of any violation of the clause set forth in paragraph (1) of this section the contractor and any subcontractor responsible therefor shall be liable for the unpaid wages. In addition, such contractor and subcontractor shall be liable to the United States (in the case of work done under contract for the District of Columbia or a territory, to such District or to such territory), for liquidated damages. Such liquidated damages shall be computed with respect to each individual laborer or mechanic, including watchmen and guards, employed in violation of the clause set forth in paragraph (1) of this section, in the sum of $10 for each calendar day on which such individual was required or permitted to work in excess of the standard workweek of forty hours without payment of the overtime wages required by the clause set forth in paragraph (1) of this section. (3) Withholding for unpaid wages and liquidated damages. The (write in the name of the Federal agency or the loan or grant recipient) shall upon its own action or upon written request of an authorized representative of the Department of Labor withhold or cause to be withheld, from any moneys payable on account of work performed by the contractor or subcontractor under any such contract or any other Federal contract with the same prime contractor, or any other federally- assisted contract subject to the Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act, which is held by the same prime contractor, such sums as may be determined to be necessary to satisfy any liabilities of such contractor or subcontractor for unpaid wages and liquidated damages as provided in the clause set forth in paragraph (2) of this section. (4) Subcontracts. The contractor or subcontractor shall insert in any subcontracts the clauses set forth in paragraph (1) through (4) of this section and also a clause requiring the subcontractors to include these clauses in any lower tier subcontracts. The prime contractor shall be responsible for compliance by any subcontractor or lower tier 115 of 369 subcontractor with the clauses set forth in paragraphs (1) through (4) of this section.” 6. Rights to Inventions Made Under a Contract or Agreement. a. Stafford Act Disaster Grants. This requirement does not apply to the Public Assistance, Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, Fire Management Assistance Grant Program, Crisis Counseling Assistance and Training Grant Program, Disaster Case Management Grant Program, and Federal Assistance to Individuals and Households – Other Needs Assistance Grant Program, as FEMA awards under these programs do not meet the definition of “funding agreement.” b. If the FEMA award meets the definition of “funding agreement” under 37 C.F.R. § 401.2(a) and the non-Federal entity wishes to enter into a contract with a small business firm or nonprofit organization regarding the substitution of parties, assignment or performance of experimental, developmental, or research work under that “funding agreement,” the non- Federal entity must comply with the requirements of 37 C.F.R. Part 401 (Rights to Inventions Made by Nonprofit Organizations and Small Business Firms Under Government Grants, Contracts and Cooperative Agreements), and any implementing regulations issued by FEMA. See 2 C.F.R. Part 200, Appendix II, ¶ F. c. The regulation at 37 C.F.R. § 401.2(a) currently defines “funding agreement” as any contract, grant, or cooperative agreement entered into between any Federal agency, other than the Tennessee Valley Authority, and any contractor for the performance of experimental, developmental, or research work funded in whole or in part by the Federal government. This term also includes any assignment, substitution of parties, or subcontract of any type entered into for the performance of experimental, developmental, or research work under a funding agreement as defined in the first sentence of this paragraph. 7. Clean Air Act and the Federal Water Pollution Control Act. Contracts of amounts in excess of $150,000 must contain a provision that requires the contractor to agree to comply with all applicable standards, orders, or regulations issued pursuant to the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C.§§ 7401-7671q) and the Federal Water Pollution Control Act as amended (33 U.S.C. §§ 1251-1387). Violations must be reported to FEMA and the Regional Office of the Environmental Protection Agency. See 2 C.F.R. Part 200, Appendix II, ¶ G. a. The following provides a sample contract clause concerning compliance for contracts of amounts in excess of $150,000: “Clean Air Act (1) The contractor agrees to comply with all applicable standards, orders or regulations issued pursuant to the Clean Air Act, as amended, 42 U.S.C.§ 7401 et seq. (2) The contractor agrees to report each violation to the (name of the state agency or local or Indian tribal government) and understands and agrees that the (name of the state agency or local or Indian tribal 116 of 369 government) will, in turn, report each violation as required to assure notification to the (name of recipient), Federal Emergency Management Agency, and the appropriate Environmental Protection Agency Regional Office. (3) The contractor agrees to include these requirements in each subcontract exceeding $150,000 financed in whole or in part with Federal assistance provided by FEMA. Federal Water Pollution Control Act (1) The contractor agrees to comply with all applicable standards, orders or regulations issued pursuant to the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, as amended, 33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq. (2) The contractor agrees to report each violation to the (name of the state agency or local or Indian tribal government) and understands and agrees that the (name of the state agency or local or Indian tribal government) will, in turn, report each violation as required to assure notification to the (name of recipient), Federal Emergency Management Agency, and the appropriate Environmental Protection Agency Regional Office. (3) The contractor agrees to include these requirements in each subcontract exceeding $150,000 financed in whole or in part with Federal assistance provided by FEMA.” 8. Debarment and Suspension. a. Applicability: This requirement applies to all FEMA grant and cooperative agreement programs. b. Non-federal entities and contractors are subject to the debarment and suspension regulations implementing Executive Order 12549, Debarment and Suspension (1986) and Executive Order 12689, Debarment and Suspension (1989) at 2 C.F.R. Part 180 and the Department of Homeland Security’s regulations at 2 C.F.R. Part 3000 (Non procurement Debarment and Suspension). c. These regulations restrict awards, subawards, and contracts with certain parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal assistance programs and activities. See 2 C.F.R. Part 200, Appendix II, ¶ H; and Procurement Guidance for Recipients and Subrecipients Under 2 C.F.R. Part 200 (Uniform Rules): Supplement to the Public Assistance Procurement Disaster Assistance Team (PDAT) Field Manual Chapter IV, ¶ 6.d, and Appendix C, ¶ 2 [hereinafter PDAT Supplement]. A contract award must not be made to parties listed in the SAM Exclusions. SAM Exclusions is the list maintained by the General Services Administration that contains the names of parties debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded by 117 of 369 agencies, as well as parties declared ineligible under statutory or regulatory authority other than Executive Order 12549. SAM exclusions can be accessed at www.sam.gov. See 2 C.F.R. § 180.530; PDAT Supplement, Chapter IV, ¶ 6.d and Appendix C, ¶ 2. d. In general, an “excluded” party cannot receive a Federal grant award or a contract within the meaning of a “covered transaction,” to include subawards and subcontracts. This includes parties that receive Federal funding indirectly, such as contractors to recipients and subrecipients. The key to the exclusion is whether there is a “covered transaction,” which is any non-procurement transaction (unless excepted) at either a “primary” or “secondary” tier. Although “covered transactions” do not include contracts awarded by the Federal Government for purposes of the non-procurement common rule and DHS’s implementing regulations, it does include some contracts awarded by recipients and subrecipient. e. Specifically, a covered transaction includes the following contracts for goods or services: (1) The contract is awarded by a recipient or subrecipient in the amount of at least $25,000. (2) The contract requires the approval of FEMA, regardless of amount. (3) The contract is for federally required audit services. (4) A subcontract is also a covered transaction if it is awarded by the contractor of a recipient or subrecipient and requires either the approval of FEMA or is in excess of $25,000. d. The following provides a debarment and suspension clause. It incorporates an optional method of verifying that contractors are not excluded or disqualified: “Suspension and Debarment (1) This contract is a covered transaction for purposes of 2 C.F.R. pt. 180 and 2 C.F.R. pt. 3000. As such the contractor is required to verify that none of the contractor, its principals (defined at 2 C.F.R. § 180.995), or its affiliates (defined at 2 C.F.R. § 180.905) are excluded (defined at 2 C.F.R.§ 180.940) or disqualified (defined at 2 C.F.R. § 180.935). (2) The contractor must comply with 2 C.F.R. pt. 180, subpart C and 2 C.F.R. pt. 3000, subpart C and must include a requirement to comply with these regulations in any lower tier covered transaction it enters into. (3) This certification is a material representation of fact relied upon by (insert name of subrecipient). If it is later determined that the contractor did not comply with 2 C.F.R. pt. 180, subpart C and 2 C.F.R. pt. 3000, subpart C, in addition to remedies available to (name of state agency serving as recipient and name of subrecipient), the Federal 118 of 369 Government may pursue available remedies, including but not limited to suspension and/or debarment. (4) The bidder or proposer agrees to comply with the requirements of 2 C.F.R. pt. 180, subpart C and 2 C.F.R. pt. 3000, subpart C while this offer is valid and throughout the period of any contract that may arise from this offer. The bidder or proposer further agrees to include a provision requiring such compliance in its lower tier covered transactions.” 9. Byrd Anti-Lobbying Amendment. a. Applicability: This requirement applies to all FEMA grant and cooperative agreement programs. b. Contractors that apply or bid for an award of $100,000 or more must file the required certification. See 2 C.F.R. Part 200, Appendix II, ¶ I; 44 C.F.R. Part 18; PDAT Supplement, Chapter IV, 6.c; Appendix C, ¶ 4. c. Each tier certifies to the tier above that it will not and has not used Federal appropriated funds to pay any person or organization for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, a member of Congress, officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a member of Congress in connection with obtaining any Federal contract, grant or any other award covered by 31 U.S.C. § 1352. Each tier must also disclose any lobbying with non-Federal funds that takes place in connection with obtaining any Federal award. Such disclosures are forwarded from tier to tier up to the non-Federal award. See PDAT Supplement, Chapter IV, ¶ 6.c and Appendix C, ¶ 4. d. The following provides a Byrd Anti-Lobbying contract clause: “Byrd Anti-Lobbying Amendment, 31 U.S.C. § 1352 (as amended) Contractors who apply or bid for an award of $100,000 or more shall file the required certification. Each tier certifies to the tier above that it will not and has not used Federal appropriated funds to pay any person or organization for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, a member of Congress, officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a member of Congress in connection with obtaining any Federal contract, grant, or any other award covered by 31 U.S.C. § 1352. Each tier shall also disclose any lobbying with non-Federal funds that takes place in connection with obtaining any Federal award. Such disclosures are forwarded from tier to tier up to the recipient.” APPENDIX A, 44 C.F.R. PART 18 – CERTIFICATION REGARDING LOBBYING Certification for Contracts, Grants, Loans, and Cooperative Agreements (To be submitted with each bid or offer exceeding $100,000) The undersigned [Contractor] certifies, to the best of his or her knowledge, that: 119 of 369 1. No Federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid, by or on behalf of the undersigned, to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of an agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection with the awarding of any Federal contract, the making of any Federal grant, the making of any Federal loan, the entering into of any cooperative agreement, and the extension, continuation, renewal, amendment, or modification of any Federal contract, grant, loan, or cooperative agreement. 2. If any funds other than Federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection with this Federal contract, grant, loan, or cooperative agreement, the undersigned shall complete and submit Standard Form- LLL, “Disclosure Form to Report Lobbying,” in accordance with its instructions. 3. The undersigned shall require that the language of this certification be included in the award documents for all subawards at all tiers (including subcontracts, subgrants, and contracts under grants, loans, and cooperative agreements) and that all subrecipients shall certify and disclose accordingly. This certification is a material representation of fact upon which reliance was placed when this transaction was made or entered into. Submission of this certification is a prerequisite for making or entering into this transaction imposed by 31, U.S.C. § 1352 (as amended by the Lobbying Disclosure Act of 1995). Any person who fails to file the required certification shall be subject to a civil penalty of not less than $10,000 and not more than $100,000 for each such failure. The Contractor, , certifies or affirms the truthfulness and accuracy of each statement of its certification and disclosure, if any. In addition, the Contractor understands and agrees that the provisions of 31 U.S.C. § 3801 et seq., apply to this certification and disclosure, if any. Signature of Contractor’s Authorized Official Name and Title of Contractor’s Authorized Official Date” 120 of 369 10. Procurement of Recovered Materials. a. Applicability: This requirement applies to all FEMA grant and cooperative agreement programs. b. A non-Federal entity that is a state agency or agency of a political subdivision of a state and its contractors must comply with Section 6002 of the Solid Waste Disposal Act, Pub. L. No. 89-272 (1965) (codified as amended by the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act at 42 U.S.C. § 6962). See 2 C.F.R. Part 200, Appendix II, ¶ J; 2 C.F.R. § 200.322; PDAT Supplement, Chapter V, ¶ 7. c. The requirements of Section 6002 include procuring only items designated in guidelines of the EPA at 40 C.F.R. Part 247 that contain the highest percentage of recovered materials practicable, consistent with maintaining a satisfactory level of competition, where the purchase price of the item exceeds $10,000 or the value of the quantity acquired by the preceding fiscal year exceeded $10,000; procuring solid waste management services in a manner that maximizes energy and resource recovery; and establishing an affirmative procurement program for procurement of recovered materials identified in the EPA guidelines. d. The following provides the clause that a state agency or agency of a political subdivision of a state and its contractors can include in contracts meeting the above contract thresholds: “(1) In the performance of this contract, the Contractor shall make maximum use of products containing recovered materials that are EPA- designated items unless the product cannot be acquired— (i) Competitively within a timeframe providing for compliance with the contract performance schedule; (ii) Meeting contract performance requirements; or (iii) At a reasonable price. (2) Information about this requirement, along with the list of EPA- designate items, is available at EPA’s Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines web site, https://www.epa.gov/smm/comprehensive- procurement-guideline-cpg -program.” 11. Additional FEMA Requirements. a. The Uniform Rules authorize FEMA to require additional provisions for non- Federal entity contracts. FEMA, pursuant to this authority, requires or recommends the following: b. Changes. To be eligible for FEMA assistance under the non-Federal entity’s FEMA grant or cooperative 121 of 369 agreement, the cost of the change, modification, change order, or constructive change must be allowable, allocable, within the scope of its grant or cooperative agreement, and reasonable for the completion of project scope. FEMA recommends, therefore, that a non-Federal entity include a changes clause in its contract that describes how, if at all, changes can be made by either party to alter the method, price, or schedule of the work without breaching the contract. The language of the clause may differ depending on the nature of the contract and the end-item procured. c. Access to Records. All non-Federal entities must place into their contracts a provision that all contractors and their successors, transferees, assignees, and subcontractors acknowledge and agree to comply with applicable provisions governing Department and FEMA access to records, accounts, documents, information, facilities, and staff. See DHS Standard Terms and Conditions, v 3.0, ¶ XXVI (2013). d. The following provides a contract clause regarding access to records: “Access to Records. The following access to records requirements apply to this contract: (1) The contractor agrees to provide (insert name of state agency or local or Indian tribal government), (insert name of recipient), the FEMA Administrator, the Comptroller General of the United States, or any of their authorized representatives access to any books, documents, papers, and records of the Contractor which are directly pertinent to this contract for the purposes of making audits, examinations, excerpts, and transcriptions. (2) The Contractor agrees to permit any of the foregoing parties to reproduce by any means whatsoever or to copy excerpts and transcriptions as reasonably needed. (3) The contractor agrees to provide the FEMA Administrator or his authorized representatives access to construction or other work sites pertaining to the work being completed under the contract.” 12. DHS Seal, Logo, and Flags. a. All non-Federal entities must place in their contracts a provision that a contractor shall not use the DHS seal(s), logos, crests, or reproductions of flags or likenesses of DHS agency officials without specific FEMA pre-approval. See DHS Standard Terms and Conditions, v 3.0, ¶ XXV (2013). b. The following provides a contract clause regarding DHS Seal, Logo, and Flags: “The contractor shall not use the DHS seal(s), logos, crests, or reproductions of flags or likenesses of DHS agency officials without specific FEMA pre- approval.” 122 of 369 13. Compliance with Federal Law, Regulations, and Executive Orders. a. All non-Federal entities must place into their contracts an acknowledgement that FEMA financial assistance will be used to fund the contract along with the requirement that the contractor will comply with all applicable federal law, regulations, executive orders, and FEMA policies, procedures, and directives. b. The following provides a contract clause regarding Compliance with Federal Law, Regulations, and Executive Orders: “This is an acknowledgement that FEMA financial assistance will be used to fund the contract only. The contractor will comply will all applicable federal law, regulations, executive orders, FEMA policies, procedures, and directives.” 14. No Obligation by Federal Government. a. The non-Federal entity must include a provision in its contract that states that the Federal Government is not a party to the contract and is not subject to any obligations or liabilities to the non-Federal entity, contractor, or any other party pertaining to any matter resulting from the contract. b. The following provides a contract clause regarding no obligation by the Federal Government: “The Federal Government is not a party to this contract and is not subject to any obligations or liabilities to the non-Federal entity, contractor, or any other party pertaining to any matter resulting from the contract.” 15. Program Fraud and False or Fraudulent Statements or Related Acts. a. The non-Federal entity must include a provision in its contract that the contractor acknowledges that 31 U.S.C. Chap. 38 (Administrative Remedies for False Claims and Statements) applies to its actions pertaining to the contract. b. The following provides a contract clause regarding Fraud and False or Fraudulent or Related Acts: “The contractor acknowledges that 31 U.S.C. Chap. 38 (Administrative Remedies for False Claims and Statements) applies to the contractor’s actions pertaining to this contract.” Additional contract clauses per 2 C.F.R. § 200.325 For applicable construction/reconstruction/renovation and related services: A payment and performance bond are both required for 100 percent of the contract price. A “performance bond” is one executed in connection with a contract to secure fulfillment of all the contractor’s obligations under such contract. A “payment bond” is one executed in connection with a contract to assure payment as required by law of all persons supplying labor and material in the execution of the work provided in the contract. 123 of 369 Offeror agrees to comply with all terms and conditions outlined in the Special Conditions section of this solicitation. Offeror’s Name: ____________________________________________________________________________________________ Address, City, State, and Zip Code: _____________________________________________________________________________ Phone Number:___________________________ _Fax Number: ______________________________________ Printed Name and Title of Authorized Representative:_____________________________________________________________ Email Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________________ Signature of Authorized Representative: ____________________________________Date: ________________________________ 124 of 369 Appendix C, DOC # 6 QUESTIONNAIRE Please provide responses to the following questions that address your company’s operations, organization, structure and processes for providing products and services. 1. Diversity Programs • Do you currently have a diversity program or any diversity partners that you do business with? Yes No (If the answer is yes, attach a statement detailing the structure of your program, along with a list of your diversity alliances and a copy of their certifications.) 2. Diverse Vendor Certification Participation Region 4 ESC encourages the use of under-utilized businesses (HUB), minority and women business enterprises (MWBE), and small and/or disadvantages business enterprises (SBE) both as prime and subcontractors. Offerors shall indicate below whether or not they and/or any of their subcontractors (and if so which) hold certification in any of the classified areas and include proof of such certification with their response. a. Minority Women Business Enterprise Respondent certifies that this firm is an MWBE Yes No List certifying agency: _______________________________________________ b. Small Business Enterprise (SBE) or Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Respondent certifies that this firm is a SBE or DBE Yes No List certifying agency: _______________________________________________ c. Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUB) Respondent certifies that this firm is a HUB Yes No List certifying agency: _______________________________________________ d. Historically Underutilized Business Zone Enterprise (HUBZone) Respondent certifies that this firm is a HUBZone Yes No List certifying agency: _______________________________________________ e. Other Respondent certifies that this firm is a recognized diversity Yes No certificate holder List certifying agency: _______________________________________________ 3. Has Offeror made and is Offeror committed to continuing to take all affirmative steps set forth in 2 CFR 200.321 as it relates to the scope of work outlined in this solicitation? Yes No 125 of 369 RECEIPT OF ADDENDUM NO. 1 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Offeror shall acknowledge this addendum by signing below and include in their proposal response. Company Name ______________________________________ Contact Person _______________________________________ Signature ____________________________________________ Date ________________________________________________ Crystal Wallace Region 4 Education Service Center Business Operations Specialist 126 of 369 Products Services Pricing Point by Point Response 2a) Products/Services/Pricing i. Offerors shall provide pricing based on a discount from a manufacturer’s price list or catalog, or fixed price, or a combination of both with indefinite quantities. Prices listed will be used to establish the extent of a manufacturer’s product lines, services, warranties, etc. that are available from Offeror and the pricing per item. Multiple percentage discounts are acceptable if, where different percentage discounts apply, those different percentages are specified. Additional pricing and/or discounts may be included. Products and services proposed are to be priced separately with all ineligible items identified. Offerors may elect to limit their proposals to any category or categories. Response: OFS is offering pricing based on a discount from mfg price lists. please refer to the Proposed Pricing Document In Tab 2 ii. Include an electronic copy of the catalog from which discount, or fixed price, is calculated. Electronic price lists must contain the following: (if applicable) • Manufacturer part # • Offeror’s Part # (if different from manufacturer part #) • Description • Manufacturers Suggested List Price and Net Price • Net price to Region 4 ESC (including freight) Media submitted for price list must include the Offerors’ company name, name of the solicitation, and date on a Flash Drive (i.e. Pin or Jump Drives). Response: please refer to the Current Price Lists folder in electronic version of Tab 2 Which includes all requested information except for net price which must be calculated based on pricing tier using discount chart ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 129 of 369 Products Services Pricing iii. Is pricing available for all products and services? Yes i. Please provide pricing for services based on a range, from minimum price per hour to maximum price per hour, with a not to exceed on the maximum price per hour charge. Response: Pricing for services is featured in the Proposed Pricing Document. All OFS products are included as are Dealer Services. The price per hour listed reflects a Minimum and Maximum price per hour. OFS would suggest converting to a maximum only price with market conditions dictating minimum rates. iv. Describe any shipping charges. i. Describe delivery charges along with definitions for: 1. Dock Delivery 2. Inside Delivery 3. Deliver and Install Response: All products are shipped FOB Destination Prepaid and Allowed. Dock, Inside Delivery and Delivered and Installed are included in the Proposed Pricing Document but are also described here: Drop Ship: All deliveries shall be delivered to the site. End-User / buyer is responsible for unloading, unboxing and assembly. Dealers may receive and unload products at dealer or client dock but labor to do so or double handling is not included in “drop ship” price. Delivery/Installation: Includes receiving of the product including the filing of any freight claims at client or dealer facility, delivery to site, installation and punch list completion during normal business hours and conditions. This service requires access to dock and elevator with free and clear access to space via furniture dolly. Electricity, heat and air conditioning, and floor and wall protection if required are to be provided by the client at no charge or negotiated with the dealer. All services include freight via tractor-trailer to sites accessible dock during normal business hours. Any services ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 130 of 369 Products Services Pricing requiring double handing, additional trips, or “hand carry” will be quoted per project. When using discounts that include services beyond “drop ship” a service fee may apply to projects below $5000 list or beyond 50 miles from the authorized dealer. Any work requiring the installation of data/telecommunications or a licensed electrician is the responsibility of the client. Inside Delivery: This option is available as a negotiable item. It is a service provided by a dealer who prepares a quote using drop ship product discounts and a per-hour labor rate to provide the inside delivery service after confirming the suitability of the end-users facility dock to receive shipments direct. It may be necessary for the shipment to go to a warehouse and be delivered to site. v. Provide pricing for warranties on all products and services. Response: OFS includes our standard warranty at no additional charge. vi. Describe any return and restocking fees. Response: Please refer to the document titled OFS Return and Restocking policy found in tab 2 vii. Describe any additional discounts or rebates available. Additional discounts or rebates may be offered for large quantity orders, single ship to location, growth, annual spend, guaranteed quantity, etc. Response: OFS will offer additional discounts for large quantities in the form of Tiered pricing. See Tier 2 pricing on the Proposed Pricing document found in Tab 2. Additionally, OFS may agree to offer unique agreements offering additional incentives. viii. Describe how customers verify they are receiving Contract pricing. Response: All orders are viewed by our Contracts Manager to ensure contract compliance. Prior to submitting an order, ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 131 of 369 Products Services Pricing customers may send their quotes or inquiries to a dedicated email address that will be established: omnia@ofs.com ix. Describe payment methods offered. Response: OFS will offer Net 30 days payment terms via check, credit card, or ACH direct deposit x. Propose the frequency of updates to the Offeror’s pricing structure. Describe any proposed indices to guide price adjustments. If offering a catalog contract with discounts by category, while changes in individual pricing may change, the category discounts should not change over the term of the Contract. Response: OFS plans to maintain the discount structure found in the initial contract. Price requests align with our commercial price catalog updates which are generally changed once per year. xi. Describe how future product introductions will be priced and align with Contract pricing proposed. Response: New product introductions will be automatically included at the existing discount if the product is part of an existing product line. If a new product line is launched, OFS will present the product and proposed discount structure to Region 4 ESC for consideration. In all cases during our previous term, new products and product lines were added at the same discounts as found in the contract. xii. Provide any additional information relevant to this section. The pricing structure enclosed mirrors our existing Region 4 contract which has been refined to provide the greatest flexibility for our customers and dealers. Customers are pleased with the simple pricing found regardless of the product line and in many cases, volume discounts have been offered based on market conditions. ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 132 of 369 Products Services Pricing Not to Exceed Pricing. Region 4 ESC requests pricing be submitted as not to exceed pricing. Unlike fixed pricing, the Contractor can adjust submitted pricing lower if needed but, cannot exceed original pricing submitted. Contractor must allow for lower pricing to be available for similar product and service purchases. Cost plus pricing as a primary pricing structure is not acceptable. Response: OFS proposed discounts reflect Not to Exceed (ceiling) prices. OFS may, if market conditions exist, adjust pricing lower. ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 133 of 369 Proposed Pricing The OFS Proposed Pricing for Region 4 ESC OFS proposes pricing based on a discount from the price list OFS DOES NOT limit our proposal to certain categories With the exception of adding a minimum rate for services, the following structure has been utilized successfully in our existing Region 4 ESC contract and is being proposed again. Price Schedule Brands/ Product Line List price volume per order Client discount % DROP SHIPPED Available as OFS or dealer invoiced Client discount % Non-union Delivered & Installed Available as Dealer invoice only Client discount % Union/prevailing wage Delivered & Installed Available as Dealer invoice only OFS / Carolina: Brands may be combined to reach the next tier. Excluding Open Plan $1-$100,000 58% 51% 47% $100,001+ 60% 53% 49% Open Plan (from Open Plan price list) $1-$67,500 62% 55% 51% $67,501+ 65% 58% 54% Inside Delivery: Negotiable ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 134 of 369 Proposed Pricing Additional Services rates: Minimum and Maximum per person per hour shown below: Non-Union Union/ Prevailing Wage Design $35-$76.50 $45-$76.50 Installation/ Reconfiguration $35-$63.00 $45-$163.00 Reconfiguration $35-$63.00 $45-$163.00 Project Mgmt $35-$76.50 $45-$163.00 Asset Mgmt $35-$76.50 $45-$163.00 Refurbishment $35-$66.50 $45-$163.00 Storage per square foot $1.50 Notes: ●OFS Invoiced means orders are addressed to and invoiced by OFS. ●Dealer Invoiced means orders are addressed to and invoiced by an Authorized Dealer. ●Discounts taken from current list price at time of order entry ●Small order fee does not apply ●Terms: Net 30 ●Freight: FOB Destination Drop Ship: All deliveries shall be delivered to the site. End-User / buyer is responsible for unloading, unboxing and assembly. Dealers may receive and unload products at dealer or client dock but labor to do so or double handling is not included in “drop ship” price. ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 135 of 369 Proposed Pricing Delivery/Installation: Includes receiving of product including filing of any freight claims at client or dealer facility, delivery to site, installation and punch list completion during normal business hours and conditions. This service requires access to dock and elevator with free and clear access to space via furniture dolly. Electricity, heat and air conditioning, and floor and wall protection if required are to be provided by the client at no charge or negotiated with dealer. All services include freight via tractor-trailer to sites accessible dock during normal business hours. Any services requiring double handing, additional trips, or “hand carry” will be quoted per project. When using discounts that include services beyond “drop ship” a service fee may apply to projects below $5000 list or beyond 50 miles from the authorized dealer. Any work requiring the installation of data/telecommunications or a licensed electrician is the responsibility of the client. Inside Delivery: This option is available as a negotiable item. It is a service provided by a dealer who prepares a quote using drop ship product discounts and a per-hour labor rate to provide the inside delivery service after confirming the suitability of the end-users facility dock to receive shipments direct. It may be necessary for the shipment to go to a warehouse and be delivered to site. Order Instructions: ●Customer purchase order whether addressed to OFS or to an authorized dealer shall include the Region 4 ESC contract number ●Delivered and Installed pricing option only available when billing through a dealer The benefits of the OFS pricing model: ●A simple formula regardless of product type, style or brand with the only exception of open-plan aka systems furniture. ●We’ve even included Quickship at no extra charge ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 136 of 369 Proposed Pricing ●Ability to combine various products to achieve tier 2 discounts. We don’t ask that you work with a myriad of product types with various discounts. In fact, we let you combine all product types except open plan to help get to tier 2 pricing faster. ●Flexible order processing. Unlike some suppliers, we don’t require that the orders be addressed to OFS. We let the agency decide whether to buy from their local dealer partner or OFS. ●We don’t penalize you if we aren’t the total solution for your project. You get our best price without any commitments other than volume. Simple. ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 137 of 369 OFS Product Scope Products and Services OFS offers an array of products that align with the RFP furniture categories: RFP Category OFS / Carolina Solutions Systems Furniture Systems, Open Plan and Accessories available Freestanding Furniture Casegoods, Space-defining, folding and mobile tables, mobile desks, height-adjustable, reception, storage Seating/Chairs Seating for office and classroom, tandem seating, and general use including healthcare applications, high task, stacking, nesting Soft Seating Common areas, libraries, waiting areas, open learning spaces including lounge, modular linear seating, tables, healthcare, pediatric, behavioral health, private/acoustical and accessories including electrical and lighting Filing Systems, Storage and Equipment Lateral files, storage cabinets, bookcases, equipment and accessories including planters, coat racks, pegboard storage Technology Support Furniture Tables, storage, power modules (freestanding and desk/table mount), keyboard arms, monitor arms including Tambien products Library Furniture Wood shelving, tables, carrols, librarian desking Science Laboratory Tables, stools, storage ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 138 of 369 OFS Product Scope Furniture Cafeteria Furniture Tables, seating Early Childhood Furniture Boost seating Audio/Visual Furniture Podiums, Tables Art Instructional Furniture Tables, storage Educational Office Furniture Faculty and administrative desks and seating, teachers lecterns and tables, classroom tables and seating, collaborative seating, lockers Career/Technical Education Furniture Reception desks and seating, faculty, and administrative desks and seating, teachers lecterns and tables, classroom tables and seating, collaborative seating, lockers Auditorium/Theater Fixed Seating Ganged style and jury base seating Modular Walls Obeya space division system, Staks modular workstation walls Related Products, Support Services, and Solutions QuickShip solutions, Tambient smart lighting, planters, coat stands The images below will illustrate most of our offerings for your categories by product name and image. The full collection may be found at ofs.com and clicking “browse products”. Additionally, we will be happy to submit brochures for the full scope if desired. ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 139 of 369 OFS Product Scope Systems Furniture / Open Plan: Space Defining Obeya: ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 140 of 369 OFS Product Scope Freestanding Furniture: ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 141 of 369 OFS Product Scope Including folding, mobile tables and adjustable tables from Applause: ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 142 of 369 OFS Product Scope Seating / Chairs: ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 143 of 369 OFS Product Scope ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 144 of 369 OFS Product Scope Pre-School: Folding/Hanging Maren ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 146 of 369 OFS Product Scope Soft Seating: ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 147 of 369 OFS Product Scope Filing Systems, Storage and Equipment: Each freestanding desk collection contains individual storage units and cabinets in addition to what is shown below. ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 148 of 369 OFS Product Scope Including Mile Marker lockers, Slate storage, Rowen bookcases, Pulse storage cabinets, bookcases, and mobile pedestals and Pind wall storage Technology Support Furniture: ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 149 of 369 OFS Product Scope Library Furniture: We make traditional bookcases, and tables with privacy, but the library has become a collaborative or cafe space as well! Shown here: Classic bookcases, LeanTo seating, Eleven tables, Heidi stools and tables and Bistro table with Boost child-sized chair. ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 150 of 369 OFS Product Scope Science Laboratory Furniture: ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 151 of 369 OFS Product Scope Cafeteria Furniture: Early Childhood Furniture: ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 152 of 369 OFS Product Scope Audio/Visual Furniture: ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 153 of 369 OFS Product Scope Art Instructional Furniture: Educational Office Furniture: ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 154 of 369 OFS Product Scope Career/Technical Education Furniture: ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 155 of 369 OFS Product Scope Auditorium/Theater Fixed Seating: OFS offers ganged seating and chairs that may have jury bases as shown below in this installation: Jury base: ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 156 of 369 OFS Product Scope Ganged seating:Multiple seating: Modular Walls: ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 157 of 369 OFS Product Scope ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 158 of 369 OFS Product Scope Healthcare: Reclilners, waiting, mother/baby furniture, physician’s office, patient rooms, exam rooms, treatment areas, and clinic and behavioral health solutions ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 160 of 369 OFS Product Scope Play OFS offers an exciting range of furniture for play including Riff table tennis, picnic tables & Shuffleboard ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 161 of 369 OFS Product Scope Unique Product Capabilities: The custom wood, laminate and Corian capabilities of Mile Marker modular cabinetry and casework enable us to provide countertops and cabinets for a number of applications including dormitory kitchen/breakrooms. Mile Marker can also be used to build shelving, bookcases, and reception desks. The option rich solutions offered by Mile Marker allow each application to be customized for specific needs. Unlike millwork, Mile Marker ships fully assembled, offering simple installation. Components can be easily moved and reconfigured, should needs change. Mile Marker components are engineered to disassemble and reattach. While conventional contractor millwork is guaranteed for 1 year, Mile Marker comes with a limited lifetime warranty. Another benefit is delivery in 6-8 weeks. A full support team is available from specification through installation. A chart is enclosed that outlines the benefits of Miler Marker versus traditional millwork. Mile Marker lockers are available in wood or laminate and can be customized for athletics or general student use. Mile Marker cabinetry solutions were the choice for the Union County Human Services Building. A few of their solutions are shown here: ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 162 of 369 OFS Product Scope Mike Marker custom lockers were the choice of the National Football League’s Buffalo Bills for their remodeled locker room at Ralph Wilson Stadium during the summer of 2014 and Louisana State University’s athletic facility in 2019. ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 163 of 369 OFS Product Scope OFS offers a 10-day Quickship program found in a downloadable catalog: ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 164 of 369 OFS Product Scope OFS offers the following services : Available directly from OFS Available through dealers Custom typicals Interior design services Quickship products Layout services Layout services Fabric and color design services Installation Installation Professional development through Continuing Education programs Systems furniture reconfiguration Furniture leasing Asset management tools Asset management tools / buyback programs Assessment tools Standards program development storage Furniture refurbishment ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 165 of 369 OFS Return & Restocking Policy RETURN OF MERCHANDISE OFS or Carolina will not accept returned merchandise without a signed Return Authorization (RA) issued by our Customer Service Department. All returned merchandise must be properly packaged and cartoned to prevent further damage. Carton must be clearly marked with identifying RA number so that proper credit can be issued. We will consider issuing RAs for the following reasons: • Manufacturing defect (must be inspected by an OFS or Carolina Sales Representative) • OFS or Carolina order processing error • Shipping error • Duplicate shipments • Mismarked cartons All merchandise must be returned within thirty (30) days of the date of the RA to receive credit. Freight damage, signs of usage, missing parts, etc. will be adjusted on the amount of credit to be issued. ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 170 of 369 Tab 3 Appendix D Exhibit A OFS Response OFS Brands Inc. Response to Appendix D, Exhibit A item 3.0 Supplier Response: Experience Strong National Presence Education of Sales Force Distribution Nationwide Marketing Plan Volume tracking Differentiators 3.1 Company A. Brief history and description of Supplier. OFS Brands Inc. is a family owned, community-driven company providing socially responsible furniture and logistics solutions in office, healthcare, education, government, and home office markets across the world. Established in 1937 in Huntingburg, Indiana, OFS has grown into a global leader while staying true to its local roots and core values of sustainability and craftsmanship. Desks, Tables and Seating have been core product lines from the beginning. Over the years, we expanded our product lines to include healthcare, dining, education, and all facets of furniture for work including open plan, modular cabinetry, tables and accessories. OFS is considered a rapidly growing mid-market furniture manufacturer providing great design at an affordable price. ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 171 of 369 Tab 3 Appendix D Exhibit A OFS Response Many of the largest furniture companies grew during the cubicle boom of the 1980’s and 90’s and are still known by many as “workstation” manufacturers today. OFS began as a primarily wood casegood company and through innovation and acquisition of the Carolina, Loewenstein and Highmark companies became a mid-market leader in the seating, workplace, healthcare and education markets. In 2007 we had 500 employees and have grown to include approximately 1850 today. To better illustrate our strong national presence in the market we are happy to share a few notable activities and investments. We continue to invest in our manufacturing facilities throughout the U.S. including Indiana, North Carolina, California, and Kentucky. Our showrooms are strategically located across the U.S. including New York, Washington DC, Chicago, Atlanta, Dallas, and Los Angeles. We invest in events and conference such as EdSpaces to ensure our connection with the K-12 Education market and are members and sponsors of SCUP and AUID to ensure our relationship to the College and University Planners and University Interior Designers across the United States and Canada. Our most recent market investment is our continued and significant investment as Presenting Sponsor for the 2nd year in a row of Healthcare Design Expo & Conference (HCD), held each November. We are an award winning destination for contract furniture industry professionals and customers during our significant Neocon presence with a large 11th floor permanent showroom and offices in the Chicago Merchandise Mart. OFS invests and is recognized as a leader in MyResourceLIbrary - a resource for specifiers as well as CET Designer, a tool that helps dealers and specifiers in the industry. We invest nationally in regional and local chapter events such as NIGP chapters (CAPPO, FAPPO, IPPA etc) as well as OMNIA ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 172 of 369 Tab 3 Appendix D Exhibit A OFS Response OFS does not subscribe to D&B. See attached Experian Report F. Describe any green or environmental initiatives or policies. INDOOR AIR QUALITY It has been shown that American spend approximately 90% of our time indoors and our indoor air is 2 to 5 times more polluted than the air outside. These statistics alone are enough for OFS to commit to providing the lowest emitting interior furniture products possible. All of OFS furniture products have achieved SCS Indoor Advantage and SCS Indoor Advantage Gold Certifications. Indoor Advantage Gold certification is SCS Global Services’ highest level of indoor air quality performance for furniture. The certification assures that furniture products support a healthy indoor environment by meeting strict chemical emission limits for volatile organic compounds (VOCs). To be certified, products must be tested by independent labs for compliance with the ANSI/BIFMA X7.1, and either ANSI/BIFMA e.3 or CDPH/EHLB Standard Method V1-1 for VOC emissions of concerns. A complete list of certified products and our product certificates can be found on SCS Global Services website: (http://www.scsglobalservice.com/certified-green-products-guid e) BIFMA level CERTIFICATION The BIFMA e3 Sustainability Standard, which provides the foundation for the level certification, is the multi-attribute, sustainability standard and third party certification program for the furniture industry. For more information on the level certification program and to view our certifications please visit levelcertified.org. ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 174 of 369 Tab 3 Appendix D Exhibit A OFS Response FSC® COC CERTIFICATION To promote and support our commitment to responsible forest management OFS offers all casegoods and tables as FSC® COC Certified (Forest Stewardship Council®). The FSC Standards represent the world’s strongest system for guiding forest management toward sustainable outcomes. Fscus.org FSC certified products are manufactured with material that comes from managed forests that are traceable from the time the logs are cut to the time the final project is installed and are recorded by way of COC or chain of custody claim on all invoices. The demand for certified forest products has grown significantly in recent years. OFS’s goal to act as a responsible steward of the environment encouraged us to pursue our FSC Chain of Custody (COC) certification back in 2007. This enabled us to procure and process wood fiber based materials that are certified under the most recognized global certification standard for responsibly harvested and/or recovered wood material. This provides our customer (Dealer, A&D community and end-users) the added reassurance that they have purchased furniture that meets the strict requirements of the FSC COC Standard. FSC certification is optional on many, but not all, OFS product lines. Please contact OFS Customer Service for information in regards to which of our product lines are available as FSC certified, and what the necessary procedures are for ordering FSC certified products from OFS. OFS FSC license code is FSC-C004808. USGBC & LEED OFS is an active member of the U.S. Green Building Council. The USGBC is the nation’s foremost coalition of leaders working to transform the way buildings and communities are designed, built and operated, enabling an environmentally and socially responsible, healthy, and prosperous environment that improves the quality of life. As a member of the USGBC, OFS promotes the development of the LEED green building certification program. ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 175 of 369 Tab 3 Appendix D Exhibit A OFS Response We offer products that contribute to LEED Certified projects and have committed to LEED certification of multiple OFS locations throughout the country. EPA SmartWay partnership: In 2004, Styline Logistics became the first company in Indiana to join the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s SmartWay Transport Partnership. The partnership is a voluntary program with the U.S. EPA that shows how shippers and carriers can gain economic benefits while mitigating their environmental impact. To meet the SmartWay challenge to eliminate unnecessary truck engine idling, Styline Logistics employed many different policies, procedures and technologies that included auxiliary power units (APU’s), reduced maximum speeds, automatic engine shutdown, automatic tire inflation systems, bio-and low-sulfur diesel fuels and new incentive programs. Since our partnership began in 2004 we have reduced our Carbon Dioxide [CO2] emissions by nearly 18,000 metric tons (32%), our particulate matter emissions by 3,000 metric tons (58%) and NOx gases by 113 tons (82%). This is yet another story in the long line of success the partners have achieved to live and prosper in a clean environment, while enjoying and preserving our natural resources. Product design & development: OFS collaborates with interior and industrial designers to develop innovative furniture that exceeds the functionality requirements of the user while minimizing the amount of materials required for production. This Design for the Environment approach greatly reduces the amount of material required to produce our furniture products, while also incorporating some of the core principles of green building design. Considering functionality, aesthetics and environmental performance into each product design we are ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 176 of 369 Tab 3 Appendix D Exhibit A OFS Response able to satisfy customer demand while offering products that meet strict 3rd party environmental certifications. WELL: In July of 2017, the OFS corporate office in Huntingburg was officially registered for the WELL Building Standard®. This marked a long road to a wellness-focused workspace, and the company began the journey with the help of the International WELL Building Institute™. The WELL Building Standard (WELL) is the premier building standard to focus on enhancing people’s health and wellness through the built environment. WELL is a performance-based system for measuring, certifying, and monitoring features within the certification standard. OFS has several associates who are WELL certified and OFS offers WELL CEU’s for our clients, conference, and partners. We offer this education as a commitment to further educating it’s partners with current and relevant industry education, supporting our continued investment in not just creating products that promote environments that focus on human centered design, but education on the innovative trends that support that commitment. G. Describe any diversity programs or partners supplier does business with and how Participating Agencies may use diverse partners through the Master Agreement. Indicate how, if at all, pricing changes when using the diversity program. OFS relies on our dealer diversity partners to provide services. We plan to offer this partnership through OMNIA Partners. While OFS manufactures the products, the dealers serve as our subcontractor to provide an array of services including ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 177 of 369 Tab 3 Appendix D Exhibit A OFS Response installation, design, reconfiguration, asset inventory management, project management, reupholstery and storage. Our dealer diversity partners nationally are all categorized as small businesses by the SBA. OFS actively searches for the best partners in the marketplace and support those dealers who may be minority, women-owned, or located in HUB zones. We do not require that those dealers seek certification but do our best to identify those who may be eligible and encourage them to register with public agencies. OFS will identify any such designations in our list of authorized contract dealers provided to OMNIA Partners. It should be noted that the services offered through these dealers will be available to all members at the same price as offered by OFS. Public agencies occasionally choose to contract with minority businesses to serve as project managers or purchasing agents on their behalf. This most often occurs with General Contractors and Design Build projects. We support those initiatives. With the agencies authorization we will allow those partners to access the cooperative contract on their behalf and will extend the same pricing structure. A sample of our most active OMNIA minority dealer partners follows: ●Innovative Commercial Environments, CA SDB/SWBE ●Saxton, IA W/SBE ●J Tyler, Houston TX W ●Navajo Office Products, Amarillo TX HUB/M ●Spaces Inc, Memphis TN WBE/WOB/SBE ●SKG, Austin TX HUB/WBENC ●Workplace Resource, TX W ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 178 of 369 Tab 3 Appendix D Exhibit A OFS Response ●Business Interiors, Irving TX WBE ●Office Solutions BI, CA SWBE/Minority ●Austin Business Furniture, TX HUB/W ●GL Seaman, TX HUB/W ●Enriching Spaces, OH WMBE ●Williams Interior Designs, OH WMBE H. Describe any historically underutilized business certifications supplier holds and the certifying agency. This may include business enterprises such as minority and women owned, small or disadvantaged, disable veterans, etc. Many of our dealers across the U.S. hold HUB certifications. See document titled “Texas HUB zone dealers” in Tab 3 to find the 8 Texas HUB zone dealers as one state’s example. Some of those dealers are also women owned, veteran owned etc. Please refer to the authorized OMNIA dealer list found in tab 3 where we have captured, where easily available, the additional designations these dealers may hold. Of those listed, the following have extensive sales of OFS/Carolina through our existing Region 4 ESC, OMNIA contract ●Innovative Commercial Environments, CA SDB/SWBE ●Saxton, IA W/SBE ●J Tyler, Houston TX W ●Navajo Office Products, Amarillo TX HUB/M ●Spaces Inc, Memphis TN WBE/WOB/SBE ●SKG, Austin TX HUB/WBENC ●Workplace Resource, TX W ●Business Interiors, Irving TX WBE ●Office Solutions BI, CA SWBE/Minority ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 179 of 369 Tab 3 Appendix D Exhibit A OFS Response ●Austin Business Furniture, TX HUB/W I. Describe how supplier differentiates itself from its competitors. Privately, family owned: As a privately owned, family owned business, we support the needs of our customers and not quarterly results, as we have since our founding. Our conversations with our customers are about partnership, not quarterly spend estimates. Our president Hank Menke and his four children are all actively engaged in the business including sales & marketing, finance, product development, operations and logistics which results in a high level of commitment for our customers. Each of them have worked in furniture dealerships giving them invaluable experience. With a lean management structure our customers will not get lost through layers of management. Distribution Network: Unlike most of our largest competitors, OFS does not limit our dealers to one or two per market. We have a large and diverse dealer network in every market. In many cases we have 20 dealers in a given state. This allows us to: ●Extend coverage to rural areas ●Add or remove dealers based on performance ●Meet the preferences of our customers ●Add dealers to support local small or minority business goals Styline Logistics, a division of OFS Brands Inc. is the only furniture manufacturer that uses its own fleet of trucks and ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 180 of 369 Tab 3 Appendix D Exhibit A OFS Response company employed drivers to deliver products to our customers. Styline Logistics has a fleet of 200 trucks and 400 trailers. Products are delivered on our trucks, regardless of order size. We are the only company in our industry that does not contract delivery of product to customers. The benefit is that clients receive goods free of freight damage. In 2018, we delivered 99.9 percent of our products without any damage. Additionally, our Customer Service Department contacts the customer prior to shipment and arranges a delivery appointment. Our trucks are equipped with GPS and our dispatch center in High Point, NC monitors their position throughout the day to ensure that the deliveries are made at the scheduled time. Healthcare solutions: The Carolina brand is one of the strongest brands and largest suppliers of healthcare related furniture and related services in the country. Our diverse range of products includes patient room furniture, waiting room, administrative, lobby, reception, executive, training and conference solutions featuring materials and features designed especially with Healthcare standards in mind. Additionally, we offer products for unique Health Care areas such as behavioral health, pediatric, and modular millwork (mentioned below) which is used primarily in the patient room and nurse stations areas. Modular millwork: OFS offers unique customer capabilities to provide modular cabinetry and casework for our customers with Carolina Mile Marker products. The custom laminate, wood, and Corian capabilities of Mile Marker modular cabinetry and casework enable us to provide athletic and student lockers, countertops and cabinets for office, dormitory, kitchen/break rooms, and healthcare clinic environments. The benefit is that Mile Marker is delivered in 6 weeks, unlike conventional millwork. Another advantage is that Mile Marker ships fully assembled, offering simple installation and components that can be easily moved and reconfigured. A full support team is ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 181 of 369 Tab 3 Appendix D Exhibit A OFS Response available from specification through installation. The option rich solutions offered by Mile Marker allow each application to be customized for specific needs. While conventional contractor millwork is guaranteed for 1 year, Mile Marker comes with a limited lifetime warranty. Product durability - Test Lab Operations: OFS operates its own in-house testing lab. This test lab is A2LA accredited (Test Certificate No. 3337.01). The accreditation assures our customers that our test equipment is accurate and we are following all required procedures. Having an in-house testing lab has many benefits including the ability to quickly test new product developments or different aspects of a given furniture unit. This ensures us that a unit will meet specific requirements before the product design in completely finished. This ability alone can potentially save hundreds of hours of design and engineering time and facilitates new product introductions. J. Describe any present or past litigation, bankruptcy or reorganization involving supplier. OFS is not involved in any current or past litigation, bankruptcy, or reorganization. K. Felony Conviction Notice: Indicate if the supplier a. is a publicly held corporation and this reporting requirement is not applicable; b. OFS is not owned or operated by anyone who has been convicted of a felony; c. is owned or operated by and individual(s) who has been convicted of a felony and provide the names and convictions. ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 182 of 369 Tab 3 Appendix D Exhibit A OFS Response L. Describe any debarment or suspension actions taken against supplier OFS is not owned or operated by anyone who has been convicted of a felony. 3.2 Distribution, Logistics A. Describe the full line of products and services offered by supplier. Products: OFS has a full scope of products in the office, education, healthcare, government, and nonprofit sectors. To illustrate the variety of products offered within OFS and Carolina we’ve assembled the following list of categories and the number of collections per area. Seating:82 collections Tables:32 collections Casegoods:17 collections Modular Casework:1 robust collection Open Plan:6 collections Space Defining:1 collection Accessories:28 collections Architectural:1 collection Healthcare seating:77 collections Healthcare tables 26 collections Healthcare casegoods 7 collections Healthcare pillows, equipment rails and chair dollies ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 183 of 369 Tab 3 Appendix D Exhibit A OFS Response Services: At OFS we firmly believe in listening to our clients and aligning ourselves with the best partners in a market. When it is determined to be in the best interest of the client, we offer “direct purchases” between the customer and OFS. For select projects, OFS may directly offer: ●Standards program development ●Product specification ●Delivery ●Installation ●Project management services ●Custom product and service solutions In the majority of cases, our customers are serviced directly by our large dealer network. OFS is primarily an “open” line meaning we have more than one dealer in a market in order to have the flexibility to align our distribution to best meet the needs of our clients. This allows clients to choose a dealer partner that is aligned with their values and goals. The majority of our public agency and education clients use OFS held contracts such as our OMNIA contract yet work directly with our local dealer network with guidance and support from our contract team, local OFS representative and OFS showrooms. In most cases, the dealer partner invoices the agency directly in order to track diversity and local spend metrics but also to streamline communication. Services provided by our dealers include: ●Design ●Product specification ●Delivery ●Installation ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 184 of 369 Tab 3 Appendix D Exhibit A OFS Response ●Project management services ●Storage ●Asset / inventory management ●Furniture end of life strategies ●Reupholstery Logistics: Owning our logistics network allows us to take responsibility for every step along the way. We operate a fleet of 400 trailers to ensure a flawless delivery process with no hassles on your end. We have less than .002% damage rate and our online tracking system guarantees an exact delivery time, so you have everything you need when you need it. B. Describe how the supplier proposes to distribute the products/service nationwide. Include any states where products and services will not be offered under the Master Agreement, including U.S. Territories and Outlying Areas. OFS Brands Inc. currently holds a Region 4 ESC Contract #R142213 through OMNIA Partners. OFS proposes to utilize our existing national network of OFS representatives and small business dealers to actively promote the OMNIA Partners Contract to the Continental United States as well as Alaska, Hawaii and U.S. Territories and Outlying Areas. C. Describe how Participating Agencies are ensured they will receive the Master Agreement pricing; include all distribution ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 185 of 369 Tab 3 Appendix D Exhibit A OFS Response channels such as direct ordering, retail or in-store locations, through distributors, etc. Describe how Participating Agencies verify and audit pricing to ensure their compliance with the Master Agreement. Our dealers and representatives must go through a certification process by attending a Government Ethics webinar conducted by our law firm, Crowell and Moring. Additional criteria include requiring the dealer principal to sign a dealer participation agreement indicating that the dealer understands the commitments and pricing found in our master agreement. The OFS representatives, leadership team, and dealers will be required to attend OMNIA Partners contract training upon award of the contract and will participate in the OFS annual dealer performance review. We will require the OFS representatives to regularly engage with the OMNIA Partners Regional Program Manager in sales calls to public agencies. In addition to the sales responsibility, dealers will provide all services under the contract as the FOS subcontractor. As mentioned earlier, services include design, installation, reconfiguration, project management, asset management, reupholstery, and storage. Dealers must submit all orders to OFS Contracts for verification of contract pricing. Additional dealer functions include checking acknowledgments, coordinating delivery with the customer and performing installation services. A copy of the agency purchase order must accompany the dealer order. The customer has the option of issuing the order directly to OFS or placing an order with the local small business dealer. ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 186 of 369 Tab 3 Appendix D Exhibit A OFS Response As a final step, customers and dealers can receive immediate answers and attention by emailing omnia@ofs.com D. Identify all other companies that will be involved in processing, handling or shipping the products/service to the end user. OFS has hundreds of dealers who have participated in our OMNIA contract. Please see attached list of OFS Authorized OMNIA dealers as well as a list of OFS dealers. The difference is that the OFS Authorized dealers have received training prior to sales activities to ensure they are aware of the contractual commitments and obligations. However, additional dealers are added monthly or as allowed and accepted by Region 4 ESC. Dealers are each able to process orders and to provide all additional services including receiving product and providing delivery and installation services. In addition to our hundreds of dealer partners, Styline Logistics has always provided quality transportation and logistical services for all the furniture manufacturing divisions of our company. We have years of experience in providing specialized handling for various types of furniture, from seating to systems and everything in between. E. Provide the number, size and location of Supplier’s distribution facilities, warehouses and retail network as applicable. OFS operates under approximately 1,948,132 sq. ft. of manufacturing space within 17 different manufacturing, warehousing, and transportation facilities. Out of those 17 facilities, 13 are manufacturing facilities. We currently operate 4 as raw materials or supply factories. These 4 plants provide the cut veneer, dimensional lumber, and cut core material used in ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 187 of 369 Tab 3 Appendix D Exhibit A OFS Response the production of our products. One facility is an intermediate supply plant that receives multiple raw materials from our other supply plants and vendors, conducts veneer/laminate layup and edge banding operations, machine components and ultimately supplies ready to assemble components to our finished goods facilities. The 9 remaining manufacturing facilities currently operating are finished product plants. Generally, these plants specialize in specific product types or categories due to different requirements for consolidation, material types, machine capabilities, capacity, employee expertise, etc. 3.3 Marketing and Sales A. Provide a detailed ninety-day plan beginning from award date of the Master Agreement describing the strategy to immediately implement the Master Agreement as supplier’s primary go to market strategy for Public Agencies to supplier’s teams nationwide, to include, but not limited to: i. Executive leadership endorsement and sponsorship of the award as the public sector go-to-market strategy within first 10 days ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 188 of 369 Tab 3 Appendix D Exhibit A OFS Response ii. Training and education of Supplier’s national sales force with participation from the Supplier’s executive leadership, along with the OMNIA Partners, Public Sector team within first 90 days ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 189 of 369 Tab 3 Appendix D Exhibit A OFS Response All training will be under the direction of OFS National Accounts Director, Anna McClelland. Training will be offered periodically to keep new dealers updated. The content of the training will include Government 101 to ensure that dealers understand the essentials of working with public agencies from the players to the policies. Training will also include contract details, features, requirements, compliance, product categories/applications, and pricing scenarios. Additionally, all dealers will have a list of people they can contact with questions as they arise regarding these or other topics. OFS intends to engage OMNIA employees into all training options. B. Provide a detailed ninety-day plan beginning from award date of the Master Agreement describing the strategy to market the Master Agreement to current Participating Public Agencies, existing Public Agency customers of Supplier, as well as to prospective Public Agencies nationwide immediately upon award, to include, but not limited to: i. Creation and distribution of a co-branded press release to trade publications (OFS will comply) ii. Announcement, Master Agreement details and contact information published on the Supplier’s website within first 90 days (OFS will comply) iii. Design, publication and distribution of co-branded marketing materials within first 90 days (OFS will comply) iv. Commitment to attendance and participation with OMNIA Partners, Public Sector at national (i.e. NIGP Annual Forum, NPI Conference, etc.), regional (i.e. Regional NIGP Chapter Meetings, ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 190 of 369 Tab 3 Appendix D Exhibit A OFS Response Regional Cooperative Summits, etc.) and supplier-specific trade shows, conferences and meetings throughout the term of the Master Agreement (OFS will comply) v. Commitment to attend, exhibit and participate at the NIGP Annual Forum in an area reserved by OMNIA Partners, Public Sector for partner suppliers. Booth space will be purchased and staffed by Supplier. In addition, Supplier commits to provide reasonable assistance to the overall promotion and marketing efforts for the NIGP Annual Forum, as directed by OMNIA Partners, Public Sector. vi. Design and publication of national and regional advertising in trade publications throughout the term of the Master Agreement vii. Ongoing marketing and promotion of the Master Agreement throughout its term (case studies, collateral pieces, presentations, promotions, etc.) (OFS will comply and has already secured booth) viii. Dedicated OMNIA Partners, Public Sector internet web-based homepage on Supplier’s website with: • OMNIA Partners, Public Sector standard logo; • Copy of original Request for Proposal; • Copy of Master Agreement and amendments between Principal Procurement Agency and Supplier; • Summary of Products and pricing; • Marketing Materials • Electronic link to OMNIA Partners, Public Sector’s website including the online registration page; • A dedicated toll-free number and email address for OMNIA Partners, Public Sector (OFS will comply, a page is already established at www.ofs.com/contracts) Press Release Upon notice of award, a meeting will be scheduled with all stakeholders including OMNIA, Region 4 ESC, and the OFS team to discuss and develop final public-facing ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 191 of 369 Tab 3 Appendix D Exhibit A OFS Response documentation, validate a marketing plan and an interaction cadence. During the first 15 days, we will work with our OMNIA Partners to develop a transition plan from our existing contract to the new contract. Within the first 30 days, the various department heads of customer service, order entry, marketing, and information technology will meet to discuss implementation and transition to the new contract including the commitments made around marketing. These meetings will also include reporting and administrative fee processing. During the first 60 days, we will develop co-branded materials including an overview flier, client-facing contract, dealer facing contract details, FAQ, and web page in coordination with the OMNIA Partners marketing team. We will use their logo and approved verbiage in a social media blast as well. Within the first 60 days, we will review our trade show/engagement calendar and will meet with OMNIA to align our goals. OFS has already committed to participate at NIGP Annual Forum and CAPPO. Each year as a supplier we have and plan to continue to participate in NIGP Annual Forum with a presence in the OMNIA space and as an engaged supplier partner. OFS also participates in NIGP chapter events, NAEP events, OMNIA summits and other vendor shows, conferences and opportunities. We are open to other trade shows or events that Region 4 ESC and OMNIA recommend. OFS participation is at our own expense. OFS is willing to participate in trade advertising throughout the term of the Master Agreement to promote OFS OMNIA Partners ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 192 of 369 Tab 3 Appendix D Exhibit A OFS Response contract. We would rely on OMNIA Partners to let us know periodicals are most effective at reaching their members. We have and will continue to provide case studies, collateral pieces, and presentations as necessary to promote this contract. OFS has and will continue to maintain a dedicated OMNIA Partners internet web-based homepage at ofs.com (https://ofs.com/resources/contracts/OMNIA-partners-public-sec tor-national-ipa) which features the OMNIA Partners logo, contract due diligence documents including original RFP and all contract documents, a client packet which is a summary of products and pricing, any related marketing materials, and a link to the OMNIA Partners’ website. Additionally, the page features dedicated contact information for both OFS and OMNIA Partners. This site will be updated within the first 90 days and prior to dealer and representative webinars. A dedicated email address OMNIA@OFS.com will be established. OFS toll-free number is 800-521-5381. C. Describe how Supplier will transition any existing Public Agency customers’ accounts to the Master Agreement available nationally through OMNIA Partners, Public Sector. Include a list of current cooperative contracts (regional and national) Supplier holds and describe how the Master Agreement will be positioned among the other cooperative agreements. We are eager to market the agreement to our existing customers, most of which are familiar with our current OMNIA Partners contract and are awaiting a new OFS/OMNIA contract. OFS will transition any existing customer to OMNIA as long as they are eligible. ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 193 of 369 Tab 3 Appendix D Exhibit A OFS Response OFS holds the following contracts: ●GSA ●OMNIA Partners, Public Sector (Region 4 ESC) ●Alabama ●Arkansas ●Connecticut ●Fairfax Co. ●Florida ●Georgia ●MHEC ●Mississippi ●New Jersey ●New Mexico ●New York ●North Carolina ●Pennsylvania ●South Carolina ●South Dakota ●Wisconsin ●Healthtrust ●Premier ●Vizient How will the contract be positioned among other contracts? At OFS all contracts are managed by the Specialty Markets division under the leadership of Anna McClelland. It is a policy and a practice to lead with the OMNIA contract to all eligible members and to share the following benefits with eligible customers : ●Best pricing available (no other contract offers better pricing) ●All products and brands (many contracts restrict our offering) ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 194 of 369 Tab 3 Appendix D Exhibit A OFS Response ●Access to hundreds of dealers (other contracts restrict the number of dealers) ●Ability to issue one purchase order (allowing our dealers to place orders means the agencies can purchase OFS and other brands on a single purchase order when addressed to a dealer) D. Acknowledge Supplier agrees to provide its logo(s) to OMNIA Partners, Public Sector and agrees to provide permission for reproduction of such logo in marketing communications and promotions. Acknowledge that use of OMNIA Partners, Public Sector logo will require permission for reproduction, as well. OFS Brands Inc. will provide OMNIA Partners with our company logo upon request and approves the reproduction of such logo in marketing communications and promotions. OFS Brands Inc. will not use the OMNIA Partners logo without prior permission, as stated. E. Confirm Supplier will be proactive in direct sales of Supplier’s goods and services to Public Agencies nationwide and the timely follow up to leads established by OMNIA Partners, Public Sector. All sales materials are to use the OMNIA Partners, Public Sector logo. At a minimum, the Supplier’s sales initiatives should communicate: i. Master Agreement was competitively solicited and publicly awarded by a Principal Procurement Agency ii. Best government pricing iii. No cost to participate iv. Non-exclusive OFS Brands Inc. agrees. We will be proactive in direct sales of Company’s Products and Services to Public Agencies nationwide and the timely follow up to leads established by OMNIA Partners. We also agree with the minimum initiatives as described. ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 195 of 369 Tab 3 Appendix D Exhibit A OFS Response F. Confirm Supplier will train its national sales force on the Master Agreement. At a minimum, sales training should include: i. Key features of Master Agreement ii. Working knowledge of the solicitation process iii. Awareness of the range of Public Agencies that can utilize the Master Agreement through OMNIA Partners, Public Sector iv. Knowledge of benefits of the use of cooperative contracts OFS confirms and agrees to all of the above. As previously described, all training will be under the direction of OFS National Accounts Director, Anna McClelland. This training will take place via webinar and will be offered within the first 90 days and again periodically to keep sales forces and new dealers updated. As required, training will include: i. Key features of Master Agreement ii. Working knowledge of the solicitation process iii. Awareness of the range of Public Agencies that can utilize the Master Agreement through OMNIA Partners iv. Knowledge of benefits of the use of cooperative contracts G. Provide the name, title, email and phone number for the person(s), who will be responsible for: i. Executive Support Ryan Menke Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing Ph: 812-630-4774 rmenke@ofs.com ii. Marketing Nick Blessinger VP of Marketing PH: 812-746-9115 nblessinger@ofs.com iii. Sales ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 196 of 369 Tab 3 Appendix D Exhibit A OFS Response Anna McClelland National Accounts Director, Public Agency and Higher Education Ph: 704-771-9003 amcclelland@ofs.com iv. Sales Support Martha Schwindt Government Contracts Manager Ph: 866-637-9328 x7257 mschwindt@ofs.com v. Financial Reporting Dawn Wibbeler Contract Coordinator Ph: 866-637-9328 x7211 dwibbeler@ofs.com vi. Accounts Payable Rachael Kluesner Assistant Controller Ph: 866-637-9328 x7374 rkluesner@ofs.com vii. Contracts Anna McClelland National Accounts Director, Public Agency and Higher Education Ph: 704-771-9003 amcclelland@ofs.com & Andrea Whitworth Ph: 866-637-9328 x8129 awhitworth@ofs.com ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 197 of 369 Tab 3 Appendix D Exhibit A OFS Response H. Describe in detail how Supplier’s national sales force is structured, including contact information for the highest-level executive in charge of the sales team. The OFS CEO and President is Hank Menke. The OFS national sales force is led by Ryan Menke, SVP Sales, and Marketing. Reporting to Ryan are various leaders including Anna McClelland, incoming Vice President Specialty Markets. Currently, National Accounts Director for Public Agency and Higher Education. Ryan and Anna work closely with five Regional Vice Presidents responsible for U.S. sales. See attached “OFS Brands Master Listing by Regional Hierarchy” for an outline of our sales force structure nationally. Ryan Menke, SVP Sales & Marketing is the highest level executive in charge of the sales team. His contact information is: Ph: 812-630-4774 rmenke@ofs.com I. Explain in detail how the sales teams will work with the OMNIA Partners, Public Sector team to implement, grow and service the national program. The initial steps will include a reintroduction of the two sales organizations which will include integrating the municipal, K-12, and higher education teams into the OFS sales teams. ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 198 of 369 Tab 3 Appendix D Exhibit A OFS Response We welcome suggestions but at a minimum, the following will occur: ●Each sales representative and dealer will participate in training to aid in implementing the new contract ●We will use the OMNIA Connect and the OMNIA managers to access membership information and use it to identify opportunities in an effort to grow sales ●At a minimum monthly contact between Anna McClelland and at least one OMNIA regional manager to understand and share trends, legislation, challenges, and opportunities ●In an effort to grow sales there will be quarterly meetings between local OFS teams and OMNIA regional manager to design and align training, marketing, and sales activities, both to clients and to our dealer network ●We invite the OMNIA Partners team to visit OFS showrooms at least yearly to learn about our latest designs and innovations so that they can speak to our value proposition when meeting directly with clients ●To further grow and service the national program the sales force will offer frequent feedback regarding challenges and opportunities in their market. In response, through contract administration, direct work with the OMNIA regional directors, and the two marketing departments OFS will adapt the program as needed to increase acceptance and use of the program, meet the needs of public agencies, bring value to those agencies, and grow sales. The growth and servicing of the contract will be validated during monthly meetings between Anna McClelland and Vanessa Perutelli. J. Explain in detail how Supplier will manage the overall national program throughout the term of the Master Agreement, including ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 199 of 369 Tab 3 Appendix D Exhibit A OFS Response ongoing coordination of marketing and sales efforts, timely new Participating Public Agency account set-up, timely contract administration, etc. The primary contact between OFS and OMNIA Partners will be Anna McClelland. She will continue to set a rhythm of communication not only with the OMNIA leadership team but with our Director of Partner Development and the regional leaders of OMNIA. The management of the program will also include: ●The reintroduction of the two sales organizations regional teams including integrating the OMNIA municipal, K-12, and higher education teams into the OFS sales teams. ●Anna will schedule monthly communication with the Director of Partner Development to align our areas of focus ●Monthly contact with OMNIA marketing to coordinate trade show/summit activities as well as brainstorming new marketing materials and promotions ●Use of OMNIA Connect to measure success ●At a minimum, monthly contact between Anna McClelland and at least one OMNIA regional manager to understand and share trends, legislation, challenges, and opportunities ●Anna will work with the national sales force to add or update dealers to the authorized dealer list ●We will continue to support new client inquiries and registrations through a dedicated OMNIA Partners email address ●Martha Schwindt will continue to submit timely reporting and payment of administration fees ●Anna will continue to be responsible for all facets of contract administration K. State the amount of Supplier’s Public Agency sales for the previous fiscal year. Provide a list of Supplier’s top 10 Public Agency ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 200 of 369 Tab 3 Appendix D Exhibit A OFS Response customers, the total purchases for each for the previous fiscal year along with a key contact for each. ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 201 of 369 Tab 3 Appendix D Exhibit A OFS Response L. Describe Supplier’s information systems capabilities and limitations regarding order management through receipt of payment, including description of multiple platforms that may be used for any of these functions. We have implemented automation software for Accounts Payable. Esker on Demand is utilized by AP to process invoices automatically into our operating system “Oracle” as well as offering an electronic workflow for invoice approvals. Emailing invoices to ap@ofs.com will allow the invoices to automatically transfer to Esker and AP can then forward them to each department for approval. Esker provides a mobile app that can be used for invoice approvals. M. Provide the Contract Sales (as defined in Section 10 of the OMNIA Partners, Public Sector Administration Agreement) that Supplier will guarantee each year under the Master Agreement for the initial three years of the Master Agreement (“Guaranteed Contract Sales”). $___0____.00 in year one $___0____.00 in year two $___0____.00 in year three ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 202 of 369 Tab 3 Appendix D Exhibit A OFS Response To the extent Supplier guarantees minimum Contract Sales, the administration fee shall be calculated based on the greater of the actual Contract Sales and the Guaranteed Contract Sales. N. Even though it is anticipated many Public Agencies will be able to utilize the Master Agreement without further formal solicitation, there may be circumstances where Public Agencies will issue their own solicitations. The following options are available when responding to a solicitation for Products covered under the Master Agreement. i. Respond with Master Agreement pricing (Contract Sales reported to OMNIA Partners, Public Sector). ii. If competitive conditions require pricing lower than the standard Master Agreement not-to-exceed pricing, Supplier may respond with lower pricing through the Master Agreement. If Supplier is awarded the contract, the sales are reported as Contract Sales to OMNIA Partners, Public Sector under the Master Agreement. iii. Respond with pricing higher than Master Agreement only in the unlikely event that the Public Agency refuses to utilize Master Agreement (Contract Sales are not reported to OMNIA Partners, Public Sector). iv. If alternative or multiple proposals are permitted, respond with pricing higher than Master Agreement, and include Master Agreement as the alternate or additional proposal. ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 203 of 369 Tab 3 Appendix D Exhibit A OFS Response OFS agrees with the strategies outlined above for all OMNIA Partners members. ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 204 of 369 IV. Evaluation Process and Criteria / 2.) (Question in bold, OFS response not bold) b) Performance Capability i. Include a detailed response to Appendix D, Exhibit A, OMNIA Partners Response for National Cooperative Contract. Responses should highlight experience, demonstrate a strong national presence, describe how Offeror will educate its national sales force about the Contract, describe how products and services will be distributed nationwide, include a plan for marketing the products and services nationwide, and describe how volume will be tracked and reported to OMNIA Partners. See Tab 3 Item 1: Appendix D Exhibit A OFS Response ii. The successful Offeror will be required to sign Appendix D, Exhibit B, OMNIA Partners Administration Agreement prior to Contract award. Offerors should have any reviews required to sign the document prior to submitting a response. Offeror’s response should include any proposed exceptions to OMNIA Partners Administration Agreement on Appendix B, Terms and Conditions Acceptance Form. See Tab 1, Acceptance Form iii. Include completed Appendix D, Exhibits F. Federal Funds Certifications and G. New Jersey Business Compliance. See Tab 3.a OMNIA Partners documents for copies of forms. iv. Describe how Offeror responds to emergency orders. OFS offers a Quickship program that features a comprehensive scope of products delivered to the customer within 12-14 days. A ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 205 of 369 IV. Evaluation Process and Criteria / 2.) dedicated price list and a display of the products can be found at https://ofs.com/products/quickship v. What is Offeror’s average Fill Rate? 98%-99% vi. What is Offeror’s average on time delivery rate? Describe Offeror’s history of meeting the shipping and delivery timelines. 99% consistently year over year. Owning our own logistics company and fleet of trucks provides us with greater control than many suppliers. vii. Describe Offeror’s return and restocking policy. All returns require prior authorization and may incur a 25% restocking fee plus freight costs. The following details our policy as found in our price list. OFS will not accept returned merchandise without a signed Return Authorization (RA) issued by our customer service department. All returned merchandise must be properly packaged and cartoned to prevent further damage. Carton must be clearly marked with identifying RA number so that proper credit can be issued. OFS will consider issuing RA’s for the following reasons: ●Manufacturing defect (must be inspected by OFS sales representative) ●OFS order processing error ●Shipping error ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 206 of 369 IV. Evaluation Process and Criteria / 2.) ●Duplicate shipments ●Mismarked cartons All merchandise must be returned within thirty (30) days of the date of the RA to receive credit. Freight damage, signs of usage, missing parts, etc. will be adjusted on the amount of credit to be issued. The customer is responsible for all freight charges to return products. viii. Describe Offeror’s ability to meet service and warranty needs. In order to provide the fastest response possible, we support our dealer network to provide warranty assistance. We have a computerized process for dealers or representatives to complete Field Issue Requests (FIR) so that parts and labor can be approved quickly. For large or complex installations, OFS will dispatch someone from our Construction Services division to ensure that the local dealer is comfortable and familiar with new product installation methods. A copy of our Warranty Terms and Conditions is enclosed. We are proposing a 1 year labor warranty and our commercial warranties. ix. Describe Offeror’s customer service/problem resolution process. Include hours of operation, number of services, etc. Locations for customer service are in Huntingburg IN and High Point NC. The hours of operation are 8:00 am to 5:00 pm EST, Monday - Friday. The local OFS representative and contract administrators will be the first point of contact for contracted clients’ issues and concerns. At this level, we will determine whether the issue is one of sales or contract communication or if it is a ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 207 of 369 IV. Evaluation Process and Criteria / 2.) factory/customer service topic. OFS has a comprehensive sales administration organization. This is overseen by an SVP of Sales Administration whose responsibility includes the following: ●Order entry ●Order conditioning and scheduling ●Customer Service ●Shipping and Logistics ●Post-installation services ●Issue resolution ●Warranty fulfillment As a prerequisite to gaining access to distribute OFS products, we ensure that our distribution network can offer services that include but are not limited to: Design Services: Space planning, installation plans, furniture migration, strategies, and reconfiguration of existing furniture, assistance with furniture selection, interior office design, and computerized installation drawings. Project Management Services: Beginning from the planning stage, through all stages to final delivery, walkthrough, and any punch list completion. Delivery and Installation Services: Includes all aspects from uncartoning and inspection to assembly, set up, placement, installation, and warranty services, along with repairs when needed. Reconfiguration of existing products is available as well. Storage is available in certain markets. Delivery: Owning our logistics company, Styline Logistics, allows us to take responsibility for every step along the way. We operate a fleet of 400 trailers to ensure a flawless delivery process with no hassles on your end. We have less than .002% ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 208 of 369 IV. Evaluation Process and Criteria / 2.) damage rate and our online tracking system guarantees an exact delivery time so you have everything you need when you need it. x. Describe Offeror’s invoicing process. Include payment terms and acceptable methods of payments. Offerors shall describe any associated fees pertaining to credit cards/p-cards. OFS or it’s authorized dealer invoices the customer upon product shipment. Services are invoiced upon completion. Payment terms are Net 30 days. We also accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express. All methods of payments are subject to a 2% processing fee or the State’s Lawful Amount for the total invoice when paying online, fax, or over the phone. Discounts are not allowed if paid by credit card. xi. Describe Offeror’s contract implementation/customer transition plan. OFS is in our 5th year of our first national cooperative contract which was awarded by Region 4 ESC and made available through TCPN - which was acquired by OMNIA Partners. Customers have already transitioned to our OMNIA contract and it is known that it is our primary method for selling to public agencies. OFS leadership has been and remains committed to a national contract. Our dedication lies in the fact that it is our only national public agency cooperative contract. Our employees and sales force will be awaiting the announcement of our new award and it’s term within the first 10 days of signing the contract. Our Digital First campaign means that we strategically use social media to make our partners and clients aware of breaking developments including what will be the equivalent of a press release announcing the contract and our commitment to it. ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 209 of 369 IV. Evaluation Process and Criteria / 2.) xii. Describe the financial condition of Offeror. OFS is a 4th generation family-owned company. Recently OFS announced plans to invest $1 million in its manufacturing facility in Leitchfield, KY creating an additional 105 jobs in the process. This expansion will nearly double its previous operation output, allowing OFS to produce new products to meet customer demand for ergonomic seating - also known as performance seating. The $1 million renovations will include a new production line and general improvements to the original facility. OFS operates over 1.5 million square feet of manufacturing space, employs 1,850 employees, and owns a subsidiary, Bryan Ashley. OFS is the tenth-largest contract furniture in the FDMC 300. OFS annually completes a full scope audit and has received an unqualified audit opinion each year including 2018. Our audits are conducted by one of the 10th largest national audit firms. OFS Brands Inc. sales for the year ended 2018 exceeded $400 million dollars and the company maintains a net worth in excess of $100 million. We appreciate your understanding that we are a privately held corporation and that we have a desire to maintain confidentiality with regard to our financial statements. We will be more than happy to further discuss our investments and strength in person. xiii. Provide a website link in order to review website ease of use, availability, and capabilities related to ordering, returns and reporting. Describe the website’s capabilities and functionality. www.ofs.com All of the OFS Brands catalogs and price lists for both the OFS ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 210 of 369 IV. Evaluation Process and Criteria / 2.) and Carolina brands are available at our website: ww.ofsbrands.com. We have established customized electronic catalogs with the corporate standards for several national accounts and are eager to build a custom site for any Region 4/OMNIA user. The main page features our corporate phone number and email address that feeds directly to customer service who can field and/or facilitate orders, returns and reporting. Additionally there is a “contacts” link https://ofs.com/contact-us that allows customers to make any type of inquiry and also directs customers to a representative or showroom near them. xiv. Describe the Offeror’s safety record. MISSION STATEMENT: OFS is committed to providing the best possible work environment for all employees. Safety is a vital part of our business and everyday lifestyle, and our MISSION is to promote Safety in everything that we do as we strive for continuous improvement and total elimination of workplace injuries. OFS complies with all Occupational Health, Safety, and Environmental Regulations. Our goal is to develop and utilize the most practical technologies, operations, procedures, controls and policies to provide a safe environment for our employees and our community. Total employee participation is the key to achieving a World Class Safety Health and Wellness Environment. To accomplish this, OFS will provide the support, training and tools needed to achieve this goal. SAFETY GOALS: ●Establish an employee Injury Illness Prevention Plan (IIPP) to eliminate hazards, reduce risks, and maintain an accident free environment. ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 211 of 369 IV. Evaluation Process and Criteria / 2.) ●Assist in physical improvements and ergonomic design of production processes ●Provide Safety Education and Training to Support a World Class Safety Program OFS strives to work in partnership with OSHA to provide a safe work environment for our associates. To accomplish this essential Written Programs have been developed and reviewed by OSHA Representatives during VPP (Voluntary Protection Program) site inspections at Plant #5 in Indiana who was awarded the VPP STAR Status in 2007 and OSHA consultations and audits at SHARP Locations 4,6,9 and 23. OFS HOLDINGS and its Styline Affiliates employed 1850 employees in 2018 with 3,850,305 hours and closed with a Corporate OSHA Rating of 3.24%, with 62 OSHA Recordable Accidents collectively. 2018 Transportation Long Distance Fleet drove just over 17.3 million miles and is expected to meet or exceed that milestone by the end of 2019. ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 212 of 369 IV. Evaluation Process and Criteria / 2.) xv. Provide any additional information relevant to this section. When we call our company a family business, we mean it in multiple senses. Yes, the company was founded by the same family who leads our company today, but it goes beyond that. Some of us are related by blood, but all of us are united as a family by a vision for what we can be together. Our philosophy can be summed up in a quote from our Owner “What you make people feel is as important as what you make” ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 213 of 369 EXHIBIT B ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENT, EXAMPLE ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENT THIS ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENT (this “Agreement”) is made this ___ day of ______ 20___, between National Intergovernmental Purchasing Alliance Company, a Delaware corporation d/b/a OMNIA Partners, Public Sector (“OMNIA Partners, Public Sector”), and ________________ (“Supplier”). RECITALS WHEREAS, the ___________________ (the “Principal Procurement Agency”) has entered into a Master Agreement effective _________________, Agreement No_______, by and between the Principal Procurement Agency and Supplier, (as may be amended from time to time in accordance with the terms thereof, the “Master Agreement”), as attached hereto as Exhibit A and incorporated herein by reference as though fully set forth herein, for the purchase of _____________________ (the “Product”); WHEREAS, said Master Agreement provides that any or all public agencies, including state and local governmental entities, public and private primary, secondary and higher education entities, non-profit entities, and agencies for the public benefit (collectively, “Public Agencies”), that register (either via registration on the OMNIA Partners, Public Sector website or execution of a Master Intergovernmental Cooperative Purchasing Agreement, attached hereto as Exhibit B) (each, hereinafter referred to as a “Participating Public Agency”) may purchase Product at prices stated in the Master Agreement; WHEREAS, Participating Public Agencies may access the Master Agreement which is offered through OMNIA Partners, Public Sector to Public Agencies; WHEREAS, OMNIA Partners, Public Sector serves as the contract administrator of the Master Agreement on behalf of Principal Procurement Agency; WHEREAS, Principal Procurement Agency desires OMNIA Partners, Public Sector to proceed with administration of the Master Agreement; and WHEREAS, OMNIA Partners, Public Sector and Supplier desire to enter into this Agreement to make available the Master Agreement to Participating Public Agencies and to set forth certain terms and conditions governing the relationship between OMNIA Partners, Public Sector and Supplier. NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the payments to be made hereunder and the mutual covenants contained in this Agreement, OMNIA Partners, Public Sector and Supplier hereby agree as follows: DEFINITIONS 1. Capitalized terms used in this Agreement and not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings given to them in the Master Agreement. 214 of 369 TERMS AND CONDITIONS 2. The Master Agreement and the terms and conditions contained therein shall apply to this Agreement except as expressly changed or modified by this Agreement. Supplier acknowledges and agrees that the covenants and agreements of Supplier set forth in the solicitation and Supplier’s response thereto resulting in the Master Agreement are incorporated herein and are an integral part hereof. 3. OMNIA Partners, Public Sector shall be afforded all of the rights, privileges and indemnifications afforded to Principal Procurement Agency by or from Supplier under the Master Agreement, and such rights, privileges and indemnifications shall accrue and apply with equal effect to OMNIA Partners, Public Sector, its agents, employees, directors, and representatives under this Agreement including, but not limited to, Supplier’s obligation to obtain appropriate insurance. 4. OMNIA Partners, Public Sector shall perform all of its duties, responsibilities and obligations as contract administrator of the Master Agreement on behalf of Principal Procurement Agency as set forth herein, and Supplier hereby acknowledges and agrees that all duties, responsibilities and obligations will be undertaken by OMNIA Partners, Public Sector solely in its capacity as the contract administrator under the Master Agreement. 5. With respect to any purchases by Principal Procurement Agency or any Participating Public Agency pursuant to the Master Agreement, OMNIA Partners, Public Sector shall not be: (i) construed as a dealer, re-marketer, representative, partner or agent of any type of the Supplier, Principal Procurement Agency or any Participating Public Agency; (ii) obligated, liable or responsible for any order for Product made by Principal Procurement Agency or any Participating Public Agency or any employee thereof under the Master Agreement or for any payment required to be made with respect to such order for Product; and (iii) obligated, liable or responsible for any failure by Principal Procurement Agency or any Participating Public Agency to comply with procedures or requirements of applicable law or the Master Agreement or to obtain the due authorization and approval necessary to purchase under the Master Agreement. OMNIA Partners, Public Sector makes no representation or guaranty with respect to any minimum purchases by Principal Procurement Agency or any Participating Public Agency or any employee thereof under this Agreement or the Master Agreement. 6. OMNIA Partners, Public Sector shall not be responsible for Supplier’s performance under the Master Agreement, and Supplier shall hold OMNIA Partners, Public Sector harmless from any liability that may arise from the acts or omissions of Supplier in connection with the Master Agreement. 7. WITHOUT LIMITING THE GENERALITY OF THE FOREGOING, OMNIA PARTNERS, PUBLIC SECTOR EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ALL EXPRESS OR IMPLIED REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES REGARDING OMNIA PARTNERS, PUBLIC SECTOR’S PERFORMANCE AS A CONTRACT ADMINISTRATOR OF THE MASTER AGREEMENT. OMNIA PARTNERS, PUBLIC SECTOR SHALL NOT BE LIABLE IN ANY WAY FOR ANY SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, EXEMPLARY, PUNITIVE, OR RELIANCE DAMAGES, EVEN IF OMNIA PARTNERS, PUBLIC SECTOR IS ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. TERM OF AGREEMENT; TERMINATION 8. This Agreement shall be in effect so long as the Master Agreement remains in effect, provided, however, that the provisions of Sections 3 – 8 and 12 – 23, hereof and the 215 of 369 indemnifications afforded by the Supplier to OMNIA Partners, Public Sector in the Master Agreement, to the extent such provisions survive any expiration or termination of the Master Agreement, shall survive the expiration or termination of this Agreement. 9. Supplier’s failure to maintain its covenants and commitments contained in this Agreement or any action of the Supplier which gives rise to a right by Principal Procurement Agency to terminate the Master Agreement shall constitute a material breach of this Agreement. If such breach is not cured within thirty (30) days of written notice to Supplier, in addition to any and all remedies available at law or equity, OMNIA Partners, Public Sector shall have the right to terminate this Agreement, at OMNIA Partners, Public Sector’s sole discretion. Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, this Agreement shall terminate on the date of the termination or expiration of the Master Agreement. NATIONAL PROMOTION 10. OMNIA Partners, Public Sector and Supplier shall publicize and promote the availability of the Master Agreement’s products and services to Public Agencies and such agencies’ employees. Supplier shall require each Public Agency to register its participation in the OMNIA Partners, Public Sector program by either registering on the OMNIA Partners, Public Sector website (www.omniapartners.com/publicsector), or executing a Master Intergovernmental Cooperative Purchasing Agreement prior to processing the Participating Public Agency’s first sales order. Upon request, Supplier shall make available to interested Public Agencies a copy of the Master Agreement and such price lists or quotes as may be necessary for such Public Agencies to evaluate potential purchases. 11. Supplier shall provide such marketing and administrative support as set forth in the solicitation resulting in the Master Agreement, including assisting in development of marketing materials as reasonably requested by Principal Procurement Agency and OMNIA Partners, Public Sector. Supplier shall be responsible for obtaining permission or license of use and payment of any license fees for all content and images Supplier provides to OMNIA Partners, Public Sector or posts on the OMNIA Partners, Public Sector website. Supplier shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless OMNIA Partners, Public Sector for use of all such content and images including copyright infringement claims. Supplier and OMNIA Partners, Public Sector each hereby grant to the other party a limited, revocable, non-transferable, non-sublicensable right to use such party’s logo (each, the “Logo”) solely for use in marketing the Master Agreement. Each party shall provide the other party with the standard terms of use of such party’s Logo, and such party shall comply with such terms in all material respects. Both parties shall obtain approval from the other party prior to use of such party’s Logo. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the parties understand and agree that except as provided herein neither party shall have any right, title or interest in the other party’s Logo. Upon termination of this Agreement, each party shall immediately cease use of the other party’s Logo. ADMINISTRATIVE FEE, REPORTING & PAYMENT 12. An “Administrative Fee” shall be defined and due to OMNIA Partners, Public Sector from Supplier in the amount of three percent (3%) (“Administrative Fee Percentage”) multiplied by the total purchase amount paid to Supplier, less refunds, credits on returns, rebates and discounts, for the sale of products and/or services to Principal Procurement Agency and Participating Public Agencies pursuant to the Master Agreement (as amended from time to time and including any renewal thereof) (“Contract Sales”). From time to time the parties may mutually agree in writing to a lower Administrative Fee Percentage for a specifically identified Participating Public Agency’s Contract Sales. 216 of 369 13. Supplier shall provide OMNIA Partners, Public Sector with an electronic accounting report monthly, in the format prescribed by OMNIA Partners, Public Sector, summarizing all Contract Sales for each calendar month. The Contract Sales reporting format is provided as Exhibit C (“Contract Sales Report”), attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference. Contract Sales Reports for each calendar month shall be provided by Supplier to OMNIA Partners, Public Sector by the 10 day of the following month. Failure to provide a Contract Sales Report within the time and manner specified herein shall constitute a material breach of this Agreement and if not cured within thirty (30) days of written notice to Supplier shall be deemed a cause for termination of the Master Agreement, at Principal Procurement Agency’s sole discretion, and/or this Agreement, at OMNIA Partners, Public Sector’s sole discretion. 14. Administrative Fee payments are to be paid by Supplier to OMNIA Partners, Public Sector at the frequency and on the due date stated in Section 13, above, for Supplier’s submission of corresponding Contract Sales Reports. Administrative Fee payments are to be made via Automated Clearing House (ACH) to the OMNIA Partners, Public Sector designated financial institution identified in Exhibit D. Failure to provide a payment of the Administrative Fee within the time and manner specified herein shall constitute a material breach of this Agreement and if not cured within thirty (30) days of written notice to Supplier shall be deemed a cause for termination of the Master Agreement, at Principal Procurement Agency’s sole discretion, and/or this Agreement, at OMNIA Partners, Public Sector’s sole discretion. All Administrative Fees not paid when due shall bear interest at a rate equal to the lesser of one and one-half percent (1 1/2%) per month or the maximum rate permitted by law until paid in full. 15. Supplier shall maintain an accounting of all purchases made by Participating Public Agencies under the Master Agreement. OMNIA Partners, Public Sector, or its designee, in OMNIA Partners, Public Sector’s sole discretion, reserves the right to compare Participating Public Agency records with Contract Sales Reports submitted by Supplier for a period of four (4) years from the date OMNIA Partners, Public Sector receives such report. In addition, OMNIA Partners, Public Sector may engage a third party to conduct an independent audit of Supplier’s monthly reports. In the event of such an audit, Supplier shall provide all materials reasonably requested relating to such audit by OMNIA Partners, Public Sector at the location designated by OMNIA Partners, Public Sector. In the event an underreporting of Contract Sales and a resulting underpayment of Administrative Fees is revealed, OMNIA Partners, Public Sector will notify the Supplier in writing. Supplier will have thirty (30) days from the date of such notice to resolve the discrepancy to OMNIA Partners, Public Sector’s reasonable satisfaction, including payment of any Administrative Fees due and owing, together with interest thereon in accordance with Section 13, and reimbursement of OMNIA Partners, Public Sector’s costs and expenses related to such audit. GENERAL PROVISIONS 16. This Agreement, the Master Agreement and the exhibits referenced herein supersede any and all other agreements, either oral or in writing, between the parties hereto with respect to the subject matter hereto and no other agreement, statement, or promise relating to the subject matter of this Agreement which is not contained or incorporated herein shall be valid or binding. In the event of any conflict between the provisions of this Agreement and the Master Agreement, as between OMNIA Partners, Public Sector and Supplier, the provisions of this Agreement shall prevail. 17. If any action at law or in equity is brought to enforce or interpret the provisions of this Agreement or to recover any Administrative Fee and accrued interest, the prevailing party shall be entitled to reasonable attorney’s fees and costs in addition to any other relief to which it may be entitled. 18. This Agreement and OMNIA Partners, Public Sector’s rights and obligations hereunder may be assigned at OMNIA Partners, Public Sector’s sole discretion to an affiliate of OMNIA Partners, Public Sector, any purchaser of any or all or substantially all of the assets of 217 of 369 OMNIA Partners, Public Sector, or the successor entity as a result of a merger, reorganization, consolidation, conversion or change of control, whether by operation of law or otherwise. Supplier may not assign its obligations hereunder without the prior written consent of OMNIA Partners, Public Sector. 19. All written communications given hereunder shall be delivered by first-class mail, postage prepaid, or overnight delivery on receipt to the addresses as set forth below. A. OMNIA Partners, Public Sector: OMNIA Partners, Public Sector Attn: President 840 Crescent Centre Drive Suite 600 Franklin, TN 37067 B. Supplier: ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ 20. If any provision of this Agreement shall be deemed to be, or shall in fact be, illegal, inoperative or unenforceable, the same shall not affect any other provision or provisions herein contained or render the same invalid, inoperative or unenforceable to any extent whatever, and this Agreement will be construed by limiting or invalidating such provision to the minimum extent necessary to make such provision valid, legal and enforceable. 21. This Agreement may not be amended, changed, modified, or altered without the prior written consent of the parties hereto, and no provision of this Agreement may be discharged or waived, except by a writing signed by the parties. A waiver of any particular provision will not be deemed a waiver of any other provision, nor will a waiver given on one occasion be deemed to apply to any other occasion. 22. This Agreement shall inure to the benefit of and shall be binding upon OMNIA Partners, Public Sector, the Supplier and any respective successor and assign thereto; subject, however, to the limitations contained herein. 23. This Agreement will be construed under and governed by the laws of the State of Delaware, excluding its conflicts of law provisions and any action arising out of or related to this Agreement shall be commenced solely and exclusively in the state or federal courts in Williamson County Tennessee. 24. This Agreement may be executed in counterparts, each of which is an original but all of which, together, shall constitute but one and the same instrument. The exchange of copies of this Agreement and of signature pages by facsimile, or by .pdf or similar electronic transmission, will constitute effective execution and delivery of this Agreement as to the parties and may be used in lieu of the original Agreement for all purposes. Signatures of the parties transmitted by facsimile, or by .pdf or similar electronic transmission, will be deemed to be their original signatures for any purpose whatsoever. 218 of 369 [INSERT SUPPLIER ENTITY NAME] NATIONAL INTERGOVERNMENTAL PURCHASING ALLIANCE COMPANY, A DELAWARE CORPORATION D/B/A OMNIA PARTNERS, PUBLIC SECTOR Signature Signature Sarah Vavra Name Name Sr. Vice President, Public Sector Contracting Title Title Date Date 219 of 369 EXHIBIT C MASTER INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATIVE PURCHASING AGREEMENT, EXAMPLE MASTER INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATIVE PURCHASING AGREEMENT This Master Intergovernmental Cooperative Purchasing Agreement (this “Agreement”) is entered into by and between those certain government agencies that execute a Principal Procurement Agency Certificate (“Principal Procurement Agencies”) with National Intergovernmental Purchasing Alliance Company, a Delaware corporation d/b/a OMNIA Partners, Public Sector and/or Communities Program Management, LLC, a California limited liability company d/b/a U.S. Communities (collectively, “OMNIA Partners, Public Sector”) to be appended and made a part hereof and such other public agencies (“Participating Public Agencies”) who register to participate in the cooperative purchasing programs administered by OMNIA Partners, Public Sector and its affiliates and subsidiaries (collectively, the “OMNIA Partners Parties”) by either registering on the OMNIA Partners, Public Sector website (www.omniapartners.com/publicsector or any successor website), or by executing a copy of this Agreement. RECITALS WHEREAS, after a competitive solicitation and selection process by Principal Procurement Agencies, in compliance with their own policies, procedures, rules and regulations, a number of suppliers have entered into “Master Agreements” (herein so called) to provide a variety of goods, products and services (“Products”) to the applicable Principal Procurement Agency and the Participating Public Agencies; WHEREAS, Master Agreements are made available by Principal Procurement Agencies through the OMNIA Partners Parties and provide that Participating Public Agencies may purchase Products on the same terms, conditions and pricing as the Principal Procurement Agency, subject to any applicable federal and/or local purchasing ordinances and the laws of the State of purchase; and WHEREAS, in addition to Master Agreements, the OMNIA Partners Parties may from time to time offer Participating Public Agencies the opportunity to acquire Products through other group purchasing agreements. NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises contained in this Agreement, and of the mutual benefits to result, the parties hereby agree as follows: 1.Each party will facilitate the cooperative procurement of Products. 2. The Participating Public Agencies shall procure Products in accordance with and subject to the relevant federal, state and local statutes, ordinances, rules and regulations that govern Participating Public Agency’s procurement practices. The Participating Public Agencies hereby acknowledge and agree that it is the intent of the parties that all provisions of this Agreement and that Principal Procurement Agencies’ participation in the program described herein comply with all applicable laws, including but not limited to the requirements of 42 C.F.R. § 1001.952(h), as may be amended from time to time. The Participating Public Agencies further acknowledge and agree that they are solely responsible for their compliance with all applicable “safe harbor” regulations, including but not limited to any and all obligations to fully and accurately report discounts and incentives. 220 of 369 3.The Participating Public Agency represents and warrants that the Participating Public Agency is not a hospital or other healthcare provider and is not purchasing Products on behalf of a hospital or healthcare provider. 4.The cooperative use of Master Agreements shall be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Master Agreements, except as modification of those terms and conditions is otherwise required by applicable federal, state or local law, policies or procedures. 5.The Principal Procurement Agencies will make available, upon reasonable request, Master Agreement information which may assist in improving the procurement of Products by the Participating Public Agencies. 6.The Participating Public Agency agrees the OMNIA Partners Parties may provide access to group purchasing organization (“GPO”) agreements directly or indirectly by enrolling the Participating Public Agency in another GPO’s purchasing program provided the purchase of Products through the OMNIA Partners Parties or any other GPO shall be at the Participating Public Agency’s sole discretion. 7.The Participating Public Agencies (each a “Procuring Party”) that procure Products through any Master Agreement or GPO Product supply agreement (each a “GPO Contract”) will make timely payments to the distributor, manufacturer or other vendor (collectively, “Supplier”) for Products received in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Master Agreement or GPO Contract, as applicable. Payment for Products and inspections and acceptance of Products ordered by the Procuring Party shall be the exclusive obligation of such Procuring Party. Disputes between Procuring Party and any Supplier shall be resolved in accordance with the law and venue rules of the State of purchase unless otherwise agreed to by the Procuring Party and Supplier. 8.The Procuring Party shall not use this Agreement as a method for obtaining additional concessions or reduced prices for purchase of similar products or services outside of the Master Agreement. Master Agreements may be structured with not-to-exceed pricing, in which cases the Supplier may offer the Procuring Party and the Procuring Party may accept lower pricing or additional concessions for purchase of Products through a Master Agreement. 9.The Procuring Party shall be responsible for the ordering of Products under this Agreement. A non-procuring party shall not be liable in any fashion for any violation by a Procuring Party, and, to the extent permitted by applicable law, the Procuring Party shall hold non-procuring party harmless from any liability that may arise from the acts or omissions of the Procuring Party. 10.WITHOUT LIMITING THE GENERALITY OF THE FOREGOING, THE OMNIA PARTNERS PARTIES EXPRESSLY DISCLAIM ALL EXPRESS OR IMPLIED REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES REGARDING ANY PRODUCT, MASTER AGREEMENT AND GPO CONTRACT. THE OMNIA PARTNERS PARTIES SHALL NOT BE LIABLE IN ANY WAY FOR ANY SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, EXEMPLARY, PUNITIVE, OR RELIANCE DAMAGES, EVEN IF THE OMNIA PARTNERS PARTIES ARE ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. FURTHER, THE PROCURING PARTY ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES 221 of 369 THAT THE OMNIA PARTNERS PARTIES SHALL HAVE NO LIABILITY FOR ANY ACT OR OMISSION BY A SUPPLIER OR OTHER PARTY UNDER A MASTER AGREEMENT OR GPO CONTRACT. 11.This Agreement shall remain in effect until termination by either party giving thirty (30) days’ written notice to the other party. The provisions of Paragraphs 6 - 10 hereof shall survive any such termination. 12.This Agreement shall take effect upon (i) execution of the Principal Procurement Agency Certificate, or (ii) registration on the OMNIA Partners, Public Sector website or the execution of this Agreement by a Participating Public Agency, as applicable. NATIONAL INTERGOVERNMENTAL PURCHASING ALLIANCE COMPANY, A DELAWARE CORPORATION D/B/A OMNIA PARTNERS, PUBLIC SECTOR AND/OR COMMUNITIES PROGRAM MANAGEMENT, LLC, A CALIFORNIA LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY D/B/A U.S. COMMUNITIES Authorized Signature Signature Sarah E. Vavra Name Name Sr. Vice President, Public Sector Contracting Title and Agency Name Title Date Date 222 of 369 EXHIBIT D PRINCIPAL PROCUREMENT AGENCY CERTIFICATE, EXAMPLE PRINCIPAL PROCUREMENT AGENCY CERTIFICATE In its capacity as a Principal Procurement Agency (as defined below) for National Intergovernmental Purchasing Alliance Company, a Delaware corporation d/b/a OMNIA Partners, Public Sector (“OMNIA Partners, Public Sector”), [NAME OF PPA] agrees to pursue Master Agreements for Products as specified in the attached Exhibits to this Principal Procurement Agency Certificate. I hereby acknowledge, in my capacity as _____________ of and on behalf of [NAME OF PPA] (“Principal Procurement Agency”), that I have read and hereby agree to the general terms and conditions set forth in the attached Master Intergovernmental Cooperative Purchasing Agreement regulating the use of the Master Agreements and purchase of Products that from time to time are made available by Principal Procurement Agencies to Participating Public Agencies nationwide through OMNIA Partners, Public Sector. I understand that the purchase of one or more Products under the provisions of the Master Intergovernmental Cooperative Purchasing Agreement is at the sole and complete discretion of the Participating Public Agency. Authorized Signature, [PRINCIPAL PROCUREMENT AGENCY] Signature Name Title Date 223 of 369 EXHIBIT E CONTRACT SALES REPORTING TEMPLATE 224 of 369 OFS Brands Inc. - Master Rep ListStCentralILKSKSIAMOMIKSNEMOKSTXTXTXTXTXTXTXTXTXTXCOCOUTCOCOCOCOWestCAWAORWAWAWAORWACACACACAEstherHahnMavenSan FranciscoCarlosRodriguezMavenSan FranciscoAnnieGraebbnerVPISeattleStaceyMyersMavenSan FranciscoJanelLevadouxMavenSan FranciscoMarvinMessallVPISeattleTrinaAdamsVPISeattleErinWaltonVPIPortlandMikeMcFarlaneVPISeattleDanaWoodVPIPortlandJessMcFarlaneVPISeattleHaley Koci Source Four Design DenverAlan Duff Duff Associates COLORADO DenverScottDavisRegional Vice President Los AngelesLisaHaleSource FourSalt Lake CityMollyWaggonerSource Four DesignDenverRyanGraySource Four (Operations)DenverAllisonOkonElle Sorority, LLC TEXASGarlandJeffRileySource FourDenverLindsayThornburgSource FourDenverLoriLaFranceMDI‐ Showroom ManagerHoustonLinnaYoonMDI ‐ Design LeaderHoustonAlinaPerezMDI ‐ DesignerHoustonAllysonMaxeyMDI ‐ A & D / Distribution SalesAustinLaurenSnowdenMDI ‐ A & D / Distribution SalesSan AntonioNatashaNavaMDI ‐ DesignerHoustonMikeDenneyMDI Sales and DistributionHoustonMargotMannMDI ‐ Sales / A & DHoustonLindseyCraigMDI ‐ Sales / A & DHoustonTiffanyArensDick Messerschmidt Inc.KearneyTiffanyRushingDick Messerschmidt Inc.Saint LouisMike, Ron and RalphCowanCowan Industries KS MO NE OK IA Overland ParkPhillisHallDick Messerschmidt Inc.O'FallonJody Kirkpatrick Dick Messerschmidt Inc.CantonBeverlyRehkopDick Messerschmidt Inc.Prairie VillageFirst NameLast NameTitleCityDougShapiroRegional Vice President EdwardsvilleDickMesserschmidtDick Messerschmidt Inc.Overland ParkCameronMesserschmidtDick Messerschmidt Inc.OlatheKimBuskeDick Messerschmidt Inc.Marion231 of 369 CACAAZAZAZAZNEILMAMAMAMAMAMAMAMAMAMAMANY.NY.NY.NY.NYNJMIMIMIOHOHOHOHOHOHINPAPAPAPAPAPAPAJason Federok KMA & Associates Inc. (PA)PittsburghSusanCardoneKMA & Associates Inc. (PA)PittsburghEmilyMocilanKMA & Associates Inc. (PA)PittsburghToddIrwinKMA & Associates Inc. (PA)PittsburghDenaKnoxKMA & Associates Inc. (PA)PittsburghMattMurrayThe Murray GroupJasperTimByceKMA & Associates Inc. (PA)PittsburghAliciaCondieKMA & Associates Inc. (PA)PittsburghBrittanySullivanThe Davis GroupColumbusChadDavisThe Davis GroupColumbusMeredithHulseThe Davis GroupColumbusDirkTurnerThe Davis GroupBellbrookRuthBrownThe Davis Group ‐ DesignColumbusNatalieDavisDavis Corporate SolutionsSalineMikeLeachDavis Corporate SolutionsGrand RapidsCherylDavisThe Davis GroupColumbusSarahBauerBoyle Group, TheBuffaloMannyTehraniBest Marketing NYWeehawkenAdamDavisDavis Corporate SolutionsSalineLisaBoyleBoyle Group, TheBallston SpaFionaBoyleBoyle Group, TheSaratoga SpringsJillJonesBoyle Group, TheBallston SpaKelseyO'ConnorContract Sources, Ltd.BostonKarenWhittyKW Hospitality Furnishings LLC CT ME S EastonJohnBoyleBoyle Group, TheSaratoga SpringsCaitlinPryorContract Sources, Ltd. DesignBostonKristinChiancaContract Sources, Ltd.BostonAshleyWilliamsContract Sources, Ltd.BostonBetsyDaubneyContract Sources, Ltd.BostonJillianBiroliniContract Sources, Ltd. DesignBostonFallynDorbrusinContract Sources, Ltd.BostonTomCaterinoContract Sources, Ltd.BostonJanineBernabeiContract Sources, Ltd.BostonTonyDeleoContract Sources, Ltd.BostonLizTobinFull Circle, IncTempeAndyNeugartenAndy Neugarten Arizona, N Mexico an ScottsdaleMattMcCormickRegional Sales Director ChicagoTiffanySamsTTS Hospitality N CAl San Fran, SacrTiburonLindseyShepherdFull Circle, Inc.TempeSteffanieMurphyFull Circle, Inc.TempeSarahReyesMavenSan Francisco232 of 369 SEGAALALGAFLNCNCNCNCNCNCMSMSLATNTNFirst NameStScottCAEricaCAJeffCAHillarieCADougCAAmyCAKevinCABrandonCAMeganCALannaCADougILRobinTXVickyTXKaitlinTXKathyTXKatTXGeriTXGregILBenMNMattILLorettaNJD ‐ New JerseyShamseyDistrict Sales Mgr ‐ NJBerkeley HeightsD ‐ OselandOselandDistrict Sales Manager ‐ Illinois (excl Chica TeutopolisD ‐ MN ND SDWagnerDistrict Sales Manager MN| ND | SDMinneapolisD ‐ Northeast McCormick Regional VP ‐ NortheastChicagoD ‐ Dallas / RuckerMcBrayerResource Market ManagerDallasD ‐ Dallas / RuckerBleyProject ManagerDallasD ‐ Dallas / Rucker HealthcareHieronymusDistrict Sales Manager / Healthcare Specia DallasD ‐ CentralRuckerRegional Sales DirectorDallasD ‐ Dallas / RuckerKlasingDistrict Sales ManagerDallasD ‐ Dallas / RuckerSnowDesign Sales ManagerDallasD ‐ SoCal HousePlanteA & D Market ManagerLos AngelesD ‐ SoCal HouseNarducciProduct Application Specialist Southern C Los AngelesD ‐ CentralShapiroIIDA Regional V P ‐ Central USEdwardsvilleD ‐ SoCal HouseCasalDistrict Sales Manager S CaliforniaLos AngelesD ‐ SoCal HouseBretonDistrict Sales ManagerLos AngelesD ‐ SoCal HousePhillipsSeating SpecialistHuntington BeachD ‐ SoCal HousePlostDistrict Sales Manager ‐ S CaliforniaLos AngelesD ‐ SoCal HouseMartorellDistrict Sales Manager ‐ San DiegoLos AngelesD ‐ SoCal House HealthcareDorseyHealthcare Specialist S CaliforniaMission ViejoTerritoryLast NameTitleCityD ‐ Regional VPDavisRegional Vice President Los AngelesD ‐ SoCal HouseSalinasResource Market Manager S. California Los AngelesJesseAtkinsonThe Wise Choice Louisana and Missis New OrleansGregLunaLuna ‐ Facility Design Marketing Group ColliervilleKatieEscovedoLuna ‐ Facility Design Marketing Group ColliervilleTeresaTeacheyTeresa Teachey Assoc North and Sout SouthportMichaelBoykinDark Grey LTDNatchezKellyJoynerDark Grey LTDMadisonJohnSkipperJack Fetner Associates, Inc.CharlotteJeffRansonJack Fetner Associates, Inc.High PointBethanyLuthyJack Fetner Associates, Inc.High PointMarleneDennisD&G Sales AssociatesTampaJackFetnerJack Fetner Associates, Inc.High PointArdenGurneyJack Fetner Associates, Inc.High PointAndyAndersonTag Rep GroupBirminghamJacquelynMoorTag Rep GroupBirminghamJohnnyArnoldArnold Hospitality GA and ALDunwoodyJoePaceRegional Sales Director ‐ S Cumming233 of 369 StaceyILDennieILGregILCharILAmandaILMarkILLisaNYChrisNYVanessaNYRobinNYKevinNYCourtneyNYLauraWIMaryNJSusanPACristinaPAHeatherPAJoeGAScottGAJohnGAPennyGALisaGAWesleyGALeighGAAmyGAMaxwellGAChristinaFLRaquelFLMariaFLMeaganFLMichelleFLAliTNAllisonTNYonnaDCSonyaDCNatalieVAPriscillaFLMichelleDCClareDCMaryDCKariDCD‐ DC HouseHussainResource Market Manager DCWashingtonD‐ DC HouseWeklukA&D Market ManagerWashingtonD ‐ DC HouseWhyteProject Specification Analyst / DC & NY FLPinellas ParkD ‐ DC HouseMenseckProduct Application SpecialistWashingtonD ‐ DC HouseVon HerbulisProduct Application SpecialistWashingtonD ‐ Nash TN HealthcareRuffAssociate IIDA, EDAC / National Accounts DFranklinD ‐ DC HouseBoyceDistrict Sales Mgr DCWashingtonD ‐ DC HouseAquinoDistrict Sales Mgr DCWashingtonD ‐FL HouseJohnsonDistrict Sales Manager ‐ S. FloridaWest Palm BeachD‐ FL House HealthcareLockardHealthcare Specialist ‐ FloridaRiverviewD‐ E TN HouseOxleyDistrict Sales Manager Nashville E TN GallatinD ‐FL HouseBraccoDistrict Sales Manager ‐ OrlandoLeesburgD ‐FL HouseAyresDistrict Sales Manager ‐ TampaTampaD ‐FL HouseVanDemanDistrict Sales Manager ‐ S. FloridaMiamiD ‐ GA HouseQuattrochiResource Market Manager ‐ GA Showroo mAtlantaD ‐ GA HousePrestProduct Application SpecialistAtlantaD ‐ GA HouseSmerkaSeating SpecialistAtlantaD ‐ GA HouseHeritageDistrict Sales Manager SE GA & Jacksonvill SavannahD ‐ GA House HealthcareHoffmannHealthcare Specialist ‐ GAAltantaD ‐ GA HouseEdmondsDistrict Sales Manager ‐ GAAtlantaD ‐ SoutheastPaceRegional VP ‐ SoutheastAtlantaD ‐ GA HouseHallDistrict Sales Manager (no territory)AtlantaD ‐ GA HouseShannonDistrict Sales Manager GAAtlantaD ‐ Philly HouseMarckDistrict Sales Manager ‐ Southeastern PA Pocono Lake PreserveD‐Philly HouseLopezSeating Specialist PhillyPhiladelphiaD ‐ Philly House HealthcareShoopEDAC / Healthcare Specialist / Eastern PA, SouLimerickD ‐ NY HouseHarrisonProduct Application SpecialistNew YorkD ‐ WI HouseBushDistrict Sales Manager ‐ WisconsinPleasant PrairieD ‐ Philly HousePedleyDistrict Sales Manager Eastern Pennsylvania, SHaddonfieldD‐ NY HousePerryProduct Application SpecialistNew YorkD ‐ NY HouseDysonResource Market Manager ‐ NYCNew YorkD ‐ NY HouseRitchieDistrict Sales Manager ‐ NYCNew YorkD ‐ Chicago HouseHernandezSr. Project Manager ‐ ChicagoChicagoD ‐ NY HouseSayreDistrict Sales Manager ‐ NY Metro Area New YorkD ‐ NY HouseMandleDistrict Sales Manager ‐ NYCNew YorkD ‐ Chicago HouseFordonDistrict Sales Manager ChicagoChicagoD ‐ Chicago House HealthcareRheaultHealthcare Specialist ‐ ChicagoChicagoD ‐ Chicago HouseTriboResource Market Manager ‐ ChicagoChicagoD ‐ Chicago HouseHarloeDistrict Sales Manager ‐ ChicagoChicagoD ‐ Chicago HouseLongArea Sales Mgr ‐ ChicagoChicagoD ‐ DC HouseThomasNational Accounts Director ‐ Healthcare Leesburg 234 of 369 CraigDCCydneeDCAnnaSCEdwardMNElizabethTNJimNCSherryNCChrisDCJohnINMelissaCAMarthaINDavidTXMorganINDGrayWashingtonDHuttonDirector of International SalesSpringDCasonWorkplace Innovation StrategistHuntingburgDBueningDirector of National AcctsHuntingburgD ‐ GSA ‐ WestSteelDirector of Federal AcctsLos AngelesDSchwindtGov Contracts MgrHuntingburgD ‐VaughtModular Casework DesignerBrentwoodD Global AccountsAielloVice President Global Acc CharlotteDMason BrownSr. Program StrategistSalisburyD‐ DC HouseAlvarezDC Healthcare SpecialistWashingtonD ‐ SLEDMcClellandNational Accounts Director ‐ PublicLake WylieD ‐ HealthcarePisarskiNational Accts Director HealthcareBurnsvilleD‐ DC HouseDavisDistrict Sales ManagerWashington235 of 369 OFS Brands Master Rep Listing by Regional Hierarchy SVP Sales + Marketing Ryan Menke VP Global Accts RVP - West RVP - Central RVP - Great Lakes RVP - Southeast RVP - Northeast Jim Aiello Scott Davis Doug Shapiro Matt McCormick Joe Pace Adam Bedell Dir Corp Accts Director of Program Sales So Cal MO, IA, NE, KS Western PA Florida New England John Buening Anna McClelland So Cal Direct Team DMI KMA Florida Direct Team Contract Sources Nat Accts Dir - FED Nat Accts Dir - GPO No Cal North TX Ohio Carolinas Greater NYC Melissa S [Team Lead]Edward Pisarski Maven Dallas Direct Team Davis Group Fetner Assoc NYC Direct Team Dir International Sales Nat Accts Dir - Heathtrust WA, OR, ID South TX IN/KY Georgia Upstate NY David Hutton Allison Ruff VPI MDI Murray Group Georgia Direct Team Boyle Group Sr Program Strategist AZ, NV CO, UT, NM WI Alabama Philly Sherry Mason Brown Full Circle Source Four Laura Bush [Direct]TAG Philly Direct Team Workplace Innovation Strategist MN/Dakotas TN Morgan Cason Ben Wagner [Direct]Ali Oxley [Direct] Chicago AR/OK Chicago Direct Team Luna Assoc So IL LA/MS Greg Oseland [Direct]MBI DC/VA DC Direct Team 236 of 369 MISSION STATEMENT: OFS is committed to providing the best possible work environment for all employees. Safety is a vital part of our business and everyday lifestyle, and our MISSION is to promote Safety in everything that we do as we strive for continuous improvement and total elimination of workplace injuries. OFS complies with all Occupational Health, Safety, and Environmental Regulations. Our goal is to develop and utilize the most practical technologies, operations, procedures, controls, and policies to provide a safe environment for our employees and our community. Total employee participation is the key to achieving a World Class Safety Health and Wellness Environment. To accomplish this, OFS will provide the support, training, and tools needed to achieve this goal. SAFETY GOALS: ◆Establish an employee Injury Illness Prevention Plan (IIPP) to eliminate hazards, reduce risks, and maintain an accident-free environment. ◆Assist in physical improvements and ergonomic design of production processes ◆Provide Safety Education and Training to Support a World-Class Safety Program OFS strives to work in partnership with OSHA to provide a safe work environment for our associates. To accomplish these essential Written Programs have been developed and reviewed by OSHA Representatives during VPP (Voluntary Protection Program) site inspections at Plant #5 in Indiana who was awarded the VPP STAR Status in 2007 and OSHA consultations and audits at SHARP Locations 4,6,9 and 23. OFS HOLDINGS and its Styline Affiliates employed 1850 employees in 2018 with 3,850,305 hours and closed with a Corporate OSHA Rating of 3.24%, with 62 OSHA Recordable Accidents collectively. 2018 Transportation Long Distance Fleet drove just over 17.3 million miles and is expected to meet or exceed that milestone by the end of 2019. 237 of 369 258 of 369 261 of 369 263 of 369 BKM Total Office Of Texas, LLCNAICS: 423210, 337212, 811420UNSPSC: 56101700, 72153606, 72153613Certification Number: WOSB191323Expiration Date: July 31, 2020267 of 369 Dealer NameDealer City Dealer StateCOMPETITIVE EDGE OFC SYSTEMS INC JUNEAU AKALABAMA CONTRACT SALES INC AUBURN ALBusiness InteriorsHuntsville ALBusiness InteriorsBIRMINGHAM ALFacilities Resource Group Spanish Fort ALINNERSPAICE ARCHITECTURAL INTERIOR BIRMINGHAM ALINNERSPAICE ARCHITECTURAL INTERIOR Huntsville ALINNERSPAICE ARCHITECTURAL INTERIOR Mobile ALInspired Business Furniture Mobile ALKyle Office SupplyTuscaloosa ALKyser OfficeMontgomery ALOFFICE ENVIRONMENTS INC BIRMINGHAM ALOFFICE ENVIRONMENTS INC Huntsville ALSpur PlantationMontgomery ALColemans Office & School Products Conway AREVO BUSINESS ENVIRONMENTS LITTLE ROCK ARINNERPLAN OFFICE INTERIORSNORTH LITTLE ROCK ARINNOVATIVE BUSINESS FURNITURE INC SPRINGDALE ARLA HARPES OFFICE FURNITURE INC LITTLE ROCK ARCORPORATE INTERIOR SYSTEMS INC PHOENIX AZCORPORATE INTERIOR SYSTEMS INC TUCSON AZFACILITEQ-PHOENIX TEMPE AZFORWARD TILTSCOTTSDALE AZGOODMANS - 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Evaluation Process and Criteria c) Qualification and Experience i. Provide a brief history of the Offeror, including year it was established and corporate office location. OFS Brands is headquartered at 1204 East Sixth Street, Huntingburg IN 47542. OFS is a family-owned, community-driven company providing socially responsible furniture and logistics solutions in office, education, government, healthcare and home office markets across the world. Established in 1937 in Huntingburg Indiana, OFS Brands has grown into a global leader while staying true to its local roots and core values of sustainability and craftsmanship. Desks, Tables, and Seating have been core product lines from the beginning. Over the years, we expanded our product lines to include healthcare, soft seating, dining, education, and all facets of furniture for work including open plan and related filing, storage and equipment storage, tables, and accessories. ii. Describe Offeror’s reputation in the marketplace. OFS is considered a rapidly growing mid-market furniture manufacturer providing great design at an affordable price. Many of the largest furniture companies grew during the cubicle boom of the 1980’s and 90’s and are still known by many as “workstation” manufacturers today. OFS began as a primarily wood casegood company and through innovation and acquisition of the Carolina, Loewenstein and Highmark companies became a mid-market leader in workplace, government, healthcare and education markets. Our peers and customers know us as a humble, customer focused organization. It is known that our owner Hank Menke moves mountains to ensure that we are able to be the best that we can be. Hank arrives early every day to walk the plant floors to connect with employees and our business. But Hank has also invested financially ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 326 of 369 IV. Evaluation Process and Criteria including investing in purchasing companies that complement and enhance our existing brands and contribute to our humble and welcoming culture. Hank understood that we couldn’t and shouldn’t rely on commercial freight carriers and therefore Stylne Logistics was born. We are one of only 2 suppliers that we know of that aren’t reliant on outside trucking companies. Hank was also innovative in solid surface manufacturing. While others source their solid surfaces we invested in solid surface fabrication to reduce lead times and cost. We continue to invest in our manufacturing facilities throughout the U.S. including Indiana, North Carolina, California, and Kentucky. Our showrooms are strategically located across the U.S. including New York, Washington DC, Chicago, Atlanta, Dallas and Los Angeles. Through investment in staff and training, we understand the process, legislation, issues, and trends that affect public agency policies, budgets, and initiatives. We understand our clients not only by listening to them individually but also collectively by participating in engagement opportunities such as: National Cooperative Procurement Partners - founding sponsor NIGP conferences and meetings across the U.S. NAEP conferences (educational procurement) EdMarket and EdSpaces (education industry) AUID (university interior design) SCUP (society for college and university planners) Healthcare Design (conference and expo) - key sponsor APPA (Association of Physical Plant Administrators) State agency forums and conferences. iii. Describe Offeror’s reputation of products and services in the marketplace. ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 327 of 369 IV. Evaluation Process and Criteria From its inception, OFS has focused on the needs of the customer and specifying designer. From something as simple as changing the arm detail of a sofa or adding technology, to creating a true signature piece, our reputation for creating a completely custom look continues to provide customers with a broad spectrum of product solutions. In many cases, those solutions go on to become standard products. Our highly competitive supply chain turns great ideas into great products and allows us to produce them efficiently with minimal additional cost. The latest example of this was a custom application for a large university athletics department. The custom solutions we provided made news nationally as a gold standard of facilities. One way to gauge reputation is through industry visibility and commitment to various vertical markets. One way is through Sponsorship: OFS and Carolina were Presenting Sponsor in 2019 and 2018 Healthcare Design Expo & Conference (HCD). HCD is the premier event for the healthcare interiors industry. As Presenting Sponsor, Carolina provides considerable financial support for industry events during the show while benefiting from an ideal platform for promoting its brand. “We are excited to have Carolina and OFS Brands return as the 2019 HCD Presenting Sponsor,” says Vice President and Group Show Director Kevin Gaffney. “Their expertise has clearly been demonstrated and attendees at this year’s show in New Orleans will be able to see this firsthand.” “With this significant investment, it’s obvious that Carolina sees the value in this show,” adds Mark Lind, associate show director, Healthcare, Emerald Expositions. “Carolina is interested in the growth of this industry, and their continued commitment reflects that optimism.” Devoted to increasing knowledge of how design directly impacts the safety, operations, clinical outcomes, and financial success of healthcare facilities, HCD brings together industry leaders for continuing education and networking opportunities. OFS is a yearly sponsor of the Society of College and University Planners and the Association of University Interior Designers and as an ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 328 of 369 IV. Evaluation Process and Criteria exhibitor and conference attendee at EdSpaces where we are recognized as a supporter and contributor to education environments. We participate yearly at NIGP national and local events as an exhibitor and conference attendee. We are highly visible through other organizations for Senior Living and Education. Another indicator of product reputation is through Awards: NeoCon: Each year the design industry has recognized OFS and Carolina with top honors during NeoCon, North America’s largest design exhibition and conference for commercial interiors. In 2019 Obeya, Kasura, and LeanTo all from OFS won Gold in their respective categories and then Obeya went on to win “Best in Competition” across the entire NeoCon event. Past winners include: 2018 winners included: OFS Bistro guest seating, Roo occasional tables, Zonal ergonomic task seating, Heya lounge furniture, and Pind for office accessories. 2017 winners included: Coact lounge, Elani seating, Heya Silver award for collaborative seating, Hug Silver for healthcare patient seating, Saven healthcare rocker, Wyre tables won Silver in occasional tables, Staks open plan. HIP Awards by Interior Design Magazine: 2019: Carolina won for Lasata recliners. 2017: Saven rocker, Staks open plan, Wyre tables, Coact seating, and Heya seating in the categories of Health & Wellness, Workplace Systems, Workplace Occasional Tables, Workplace High Back Seating, Workplace Hubs. Interior Design Best of Year Awards: 2017 Elani won Healthcare Furniture, Boost won Education Furniture, Heya won Contract/Pods, and Harpin won for Seating in Contract/Conference Presented by Healthcare Design magazine in partnership with The Center for Health Design, the Nightingale Awards recognize the contribution to the healthcare built environment through product design and innovation that contributes to health. In 2019 OFS won for the Reservoir table and in 2018 won silver with the Lasata patient recliner. In 2017 the Saven rocker won for innovation. ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 329 of 369 IV. Evaluation Process and Criteria The OFS/Carolina reputation for service has resulted in securing and maintaining national and significant relationships with corporations and health systems that recognize the nimble nature of our organization. OFS has proven that we can provide customized service solutions including: Establishing an in-house project services team and unique dealer network and product program to directly handle all capital projects for a major healthcare client. For a corporate client, we developed a unique program of stocking and delivering not only our products, but everything this customer needs to fulfil a retail location in a turn-key method Developing over the course of two years a customer solution for a major university athletic department that garnered national recognition and praise. OFS recently surveyed customers with a national presence and from that was consistent praise for our dealer network and the flexibility it offers them in each market. Our customers want the choice of dealers that OFS provides. iv. Describe the experience and qualification of key employees. Ryan Menke Senior Vice President Sales & Marketing University of Evansville, BA Marketing: Ph: 812-630-4774 RMenke@ofs.com Experience/Qualifications: Experienced leader with a multi-disciplinary background ranging from Senior Vice President Supply Chain to Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing. Ryan is one of 4 children of owner Hank Menke, each holding a position within the organization. ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 330 of 369 IV. Evaluation Process and Criteria Ryan works closely with Anna McClelland to establish policies to ensure that the OMNIA contract is a company priority. Ryan began his career at a furniture dealership and is proud that much of his success came from working with public agencies. Ryan resides in Huntingburg Indiana. Anna McClelland National Accounts Director, Specialty Markets Attended University of South Carolina Ph: 704-771-9003 Amcclelland@ofs.com Experience/Qualifications: Anna has been a furniture professional for over 30 years and is a resident of South Carolina . Anna has been with OFS Brands Inc. since 2015 and is responsible for all specialty markets including public agencies and healthcare contracts (approx. 34) supporting those nationwide. Anna is not only responsible for oversight of the contracts but also for developing and implementing the associated strategies including the policy and commitment to lead with our OMNIA Partners contract. Work includes supporting the sales organization nationally and working directly with certain clients and the Architectural and Design community. Anna was previously with Knoll Inc. (furniture mfg.) for 18 years responsible for winning and managing their US Communities contract during the last 5 years and worked as a senior sales representative for 13 years prior. During her time in a sales capacity, Anna's emphasis included public agency, federal, and commercial markets. Prior to working for a furniture manufacturer, Anna spent 9 years with a furniture dealership in Charlotte NC in a sales and project management capacity. Anna’s experience includes continuing education through engagement with procurement professionals and conference participation, including NIGP chapters and public education engagement through SCUP, NAEP and as a contributor to NCPP (National Coalition for Public Procurement) organization. Personal experience and success with public agencies include Mecklenburg County, Union County, Gaston County, State of Georgia, City of Houston, ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 331 of 369 IV. Evaluation Process and Criteria Los Angeles County, Fairfax County, City of Seattle, King County, and others. Martha Schwindt Government Contracts Manager Ph: 866-637-9328 ext 7257 MSchwindt@ofs.com Experience/Qualifications: OFS Brands, Inc. July 2003 – Present Martha is responsible for the compliance of all Federal, State, and Group Purchasing contracts, and for the maintenance of records pertaining to the contracts. Martha serves as the point of contact for all internal staff and outside sales personnel for matters relating to contract terms and conditions. She is responsible for tracking and reporting of contract sales, including reporting of sales and payment of Administrative Fees for OMNIA Partners. Additionally, Martha assists Customer Service Account Managers and Order Entry staff in correct processing of contract orders and management of service issues. She also is engaged in assisting Accounts Receivables Dept. in resolution of billing issues. Rory Laurent Manager, State Contracts Education: Attended East Los Angeles College Ph: 866-637-9328 ext 4224 RLaurent@ofs.com Experience/Qualifications: With 14 years of industry experience, Rory is responsible for maintaining state, regional, higher education and direct client contracts for OFS. Rory monitors contract compliance and reporting and is engaged with the Specialty Markets Team and our District Sales Managers on select client relationships. Rory submits responses electronically to State Purchasing organizations for new and renewal contracts and is responsible for updating our website for contract information and maintaining updates on the site. Rory resides in Huntington Beach CA. ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 332 of 369 IV. Evaluation Process and Criteria Andrea Whitworth Group Purchasing Organization Administrator Education: High Point University Ph: 866-637-9328 ext 8129 AWhitworth@ofs.com Experience/Qualifications: With over 8 years of industry experience, Andrea is part of the Specialty Markets team responsible for maintaining healthcare and direct client contracts for OFS/Carolina. Responsibilities include managing our trade show (NIGP) presence and participating in National Cooperative Purchasing Partners activities. With the award of a Region 4 contract Andrea will share in contract responsibility to help ensure that agencies are receiving the correct discounts, that reporting is timely, and that customer needs are being met. v. Describe Offeror’s experience working with the government sector. OFS is a very active participant in the Federal market and has held a GSA Schedule Contract since 1998 and the Navy FISC BPA since 2006. In 2010, the US Army awarded its largest contract ever for wood case goods to OFS Brands to accommodate relocating war fighters and civilians under BRAC and more recently has been a significant supplier to the Veterans Association and the International Monetary Fund. OFS has held a Region 4 contract since 2015 with significant growth each year. Several agencies have adopted the OFS Region 4 contract as their own. OFS Brands has been a long time contractor to several states and currently holds state contracts in AL, AR, CT, FL,GA, MS, NJ, NM, NY, NC, PA, SC, SD and WI. OFS holds regional contracts with MHEC, University of KY,and Fairfax County, County of Los Angeles and is a top supplier to the State of GA members. ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 333 of 369 IV. Evaluation Process and Criteria Sales to public agencies during the past 12 months total approximately $35,000,000 with major project experience with counties and cities. vi. Describe past litigation, bankruptcy, reorganization, state investigations of entity or current officers and directors. OFS is not involved in any current or past litigation, bankruptcy, or reorganization. vii. Provide a minimum of 10 customer references relating to the products and services within this RFP. Include entity name, contact name and title, contact phone and email, city, state, years serviced, description of services and annual volume. 1.State of Georgia Contact: Dr. Carl Hall Title: Supplies category manager Phone: 404-657-4254 Email: Carl.Hall@doas.ga.gov City, State: Atlanta, GA Years Serviced: approx. 10 Description of services: Furniture and related Annual Volume: $5,500,000 2.State of Florida Contact: Thomas Bower, FCCM Title: Contract Manager Phone: 850-488-6904 Email: Thomas.Bower@dms.myflorida.com City, State: Tallahassee, FL Years Serviced: approx. 10 Description of services: Furniture and related Annual Volume: $1,200,000 3.State of North Carolina Contact: Grant Braley ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 334 of 369 IV. Evaluation Process and Criteria Title: Category Manager Phone: 919-807-4519 Email: Grant.Braley@doa.nc.gov City, State: Raleigh, NC Years Serviced: approx. 20 Description of services: Furniture and related Annual Volume: $1,200,000 4.State of Alabama Contact: Brittany Snyder Title: Contract Manager Phone: 334-242-4667 Email: brittany.snyder@purchasing.alabama.gov City, State: Montgomery, AL Years Serviced: approx. 12 Description of services: Furniture and related Annual Volume: $1,500,000 5.State of New Jersey Contact: Anna Marie Miller Title: Procurement Specialist Phone:609-292-8974 Email: AnnaMarie.Miller@treas.nj.gov City, State: Trenton, NJ Years Serviced: approx. 11 Description of services: Furniture and related Annual Volume: $1,300,000 6.TCSG - Technical College System of GA Contact: Sherri Winters Title: Regional Program Manager Phone: 470- 303-5994 Email: SWinters@tcsg.edu City, State: Atlanta GA Years Serviced: 20+ years Description of services: Furniture for many campuses Annual Volume: >$619,000 7.Union County ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 335 of 369 IV. Evaluation Process and Criteria Contact: Bryan A. Wentz Title: Facility Project Manager Phone: 704-296-4255 Email: Tony.Wentz@unioncountync.gov City, State: Monroe NC Years Serviced: 2016-2019 Description of services: Furniture for HHS bldg. Annual Volume: $87,000 8.York County SC Contact: Bryant Cook Title: Purchasing Manager Phone: 803-684-8512 Email: bryant.cook@yorkcountygov.com City, State: York, SC Years Serviced: 2018-2020 Description of services: Furniture for several bldg. Annual Volume: >$500,000 9.State of Pennsylvania Contact: Lisa Vega Title: Commodity Specialist Phone: 717-346-4290 Email: LVEGA@pa.gov City, State: Harrisburg, PA Years Serviced: 2017-2020 Description of services: Furniture and services Annual Volume: $756,000 10.Louisiana State University Contact: Stephen Walczak Title: Senior Strategic Sourcing Analyst Phone: 225-578-2303 Email: SWalczak@lsu.edu City, State: Baton Rouge, LA Years Serviced: 2019-2020 Description of services: Athletics Bldg. Annual Volume: >$300,000 ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 336 of 369 IV. Evaluation Process and Criteria 11.County of Los Angeles Contact: Eric Carlos Title: Purchasing and Contract Analyst Phone: 323-267-2331 Email: ecarlos@isdlacounty.gov City, State: Los Angeles, CA Years Serviced: 2017-2020 Description of services: Various Annual Volume: >$1,000,000 viii. Provide any additional information relevant to this section. Environmental Initiatives INDOOR AIR QUALITY It has been shown that Americans spend approximately 90% of our time indoors and our indoor air is 2 to 5 times more polluted than the air outside. These statistics alone are enough for OFS to commit to providing the lowest emitting interiors furniture products possible. All of OFS furniture products have achieved SCS Indoor Advantage and SCS Indoor Advantage Gold Certifications. Indoor Advantage Gold is SCS Global Services’ highest level of indoor air quality performance for furniture. The certification assures that furniture products support a healthy indoor environment by meeting strict chemical emission limits for volatile organic compounds (VOCs). To be certified, products must be tested by independent labs for compliance with the ANSI/BIFMA X7.1, and either ANSI/BIFMA e.3 or CDPH/EHLB Standard Method V1-1 for VOC emissions of concerns. A complete list of certified products and our product certificates can be found on SCS Global Services website: (http://www.scsglobalservice.com/certification certified-green-products-guide) ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 337 of 369 IV. Evaluation Process and Criteria BIFMA level CERTIFICATION The BIFMA e3 Sustainability Standard, which provides the foundation for the level certification, is the multi-attribute, sustainability standard and third party certification program for the furniture industry. For more information on the level certification program and to view our certifications please visit levelcertified.org. FSC® COC CERTIFICATION To promote and support our commitment to responsible forest management OFS offers all casegoods and tables as FSC® COC Certified (Forest Stewardship Council®). The FSC Standards represent the world’s strongest system for guiding forest management toward sustainable outcomes. Fscus.org FSC certified products are manufactured with material that comes from managed forests that are traceable from the time the logs are cut to the time the final project is installed and are recorded by way of COC or chain of custody claim on all invoices. The demand for certified forest products has grown significantly in recent years. OFS’s goal to act as a responsible steward of the environment encouraged us to pursue our FSC Chain of Custody (COC) certification back in 2007. This enabled us to procure and process wood fiber based materials that are certified under the most recognized global certification standard for responsibly harvested and/or recovered wood material. This provides our customer (Dealer, A&D community and end-users) the added reassurance that they have purchased furniture that meets the strict requirements of the FSC COC Standard. FSC certification is optional on many, but not all, OFS product lines. Please contact OFS Customer Service for information in regards to which of our product lines are available as FSC certified, and what the necessary procedures are for ordering FSC certified products from OFS. OFS FSC license code is FSC-C004808. ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 338 of 369 IV. Evaluation Process and Criteria USGBC & LEED OFS is an active member of the U.S. Green Building Council. The USGBC is the nation’s foremost coalition of leaders working to transform the way buildings and communities are designed, built and operated, enabling an environmentally and socially responsible, healthy, and prosperous environment that improves the quality of life. As a member of the USGBC, OFS promotes the development of the LEED green building certification program. We offer products that contribute to LEED Certified projects and have committed to LEED certification of multiple OFS locations throughout the country. EPA SmartWay partnership: In 2004, Styline Logistics became the first company in Indiana to join the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s SmartWay Transport Partnership. The partnership is a voluntary program with the U.S. EPA that shows how shippers and carriers can gain economic benefits while mitigating their environmental impact. To meet the SmartWay challenge to eliminate unnecessary truck engine idling, Styline Logistics employed many different policies, procedures and technologies that included auxiliary power units (APU’s), reduced maximum speeds, automatic engine shutdown, automatic tire inflation systems, bio-and low-sulfur diesel fuels and new incentive programs. Since our partnership began in 2004 we have reduced our Carbon Dioxide [CO2] emissions by nearly 18,000 metric tons (32%), our particulate matter emissions by 3,000 metric tons (58%) and NOx gases by 113 tons (82%). This is yet another story in the long line of success the partners have achieved to live and prosper in a clean environment, while enjoying and preserving our natural resources. Product design & development: OFS collaborates with interior and industrial designers to develop innovative furniture that exceeds the ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 339 of 369 IV. Evaluation Process and Criteria functionality requirements of the user while minimizing the amount of materials required for production. This Design for the Environment approach greatly reduces the amount of material required to produce our furniture products, while also incorporating some of the core principles of green building design. Considering functionality, aesthetics and environmental performance into each product design we are able to satisfy customer demand while offering products that meet strict 3rd party environmental certifications. WELL: In July of 2017, the OFS corporate office in Huntingburg was officially registered for the WELL Building Standard®. This marked a long road to a wellness-focused workspace, and the company began the journey with the help of the International WELL Building Institute™. The WELL Building Standard (WELL) is the premier building standard to focus on enhancing people’s health and wellness through the built environment. WELL is a performance-based system for measuring, certifying, and monitoring features within the certification standard. OFS has several associates who are WELL certified and OFS offers WELL CEU’s for our clients, conference, and partners. We offer this education as a commitment to further educating it’s partners with current and relevant industry education, supporting our continued investment in not just creating products that promote environments that focus on human centered design, but education on the innovative trends that support that commitment. ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 340 of 369 Value Add d) Value Add i. Provide any additional information related to products and services Offeror proposes to enhance and add value to the Contract. Related products offered by OFS Quickship solutions Tambient smart lighting Mile Marker custom cabinetry Healthcare products Behavioral health solutions Product for Play Support services and solutions offered by OFS Available directly from OFS Available through dealers Custom typicals Interior design services Quickship products Layout services Layout services Fabric and color design services Installation Assessment/ Programming tools Professional development through Continuing Education programs Systems furniture reconfiguration Furniture leasing Asset management tools Asset management tools / buyback programs Installation and Project Management Standards program development storage Project Management Furniture refurbishment ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 341 of 369 Opens Record Policy OFS believes the following sections are exempt from disclosure: Tab Page #Line #Reason for exemption 3 173 19-22 Tab 3 Appendix D, Exhibit A Response Item D: OFS is a private company and Requests Annual sales not be disclosed 3 201 4 Same document. 15,17,19,Section 3.3 Marketing and Sales 21,23,25 Item K. Annual sales and top 10 agency 27,29,31,33 purchases. OFS requests that annual 202 1 and sales to top agencies not be disclosed. 3 202 27 Same document. OFS requests that Guaranteed Sales not be disclosed ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 Appendix C, DOC # 6 QUESTIONNAIRE Please provide responses to the following questions that address your company’s operations, organization, structure and processes for providing products and services. 1. Diversity Programs • Do you currently have a diversity program or any diversity partners that you do business with? Yes No (If the answer is yes, attach a statement detailing the structure of your program, along with a list of your diversity alliances and a copy of their certifications.) 2. Diverse Vendor Certification Participation Region 4 ESC encourages the use of under-utilized businesses (HUB), minority and women business enterprises (MWBE), and small and/or disadvantages business enterprises (SBE) both as prime and subcontractors. Offerors shall indicate below whether or not they and/or any of their subcontractors (and if so which) hold certification in any of the classified areas and include proof of such certification with their response. a. Minority Women Business Enterprise Respondent certifies that this firm is an MWBE Yes No List certifying agency: _______________________________________________ b. Small Business Enterprise (SBE) or Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Respondent certifies that this firm is a SBE or DBE Yes No List certifying agency: _______________________________________________ c. Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUB) Respondent certifies that this firm is a HUB Yes No List certifying agency: _______________________________________________ d. Historically Underutilized Business Zone Enterprise (HUBZone) Respondent certifies that this firm is a HUBZone Yes No List certifying agency: _______________________________________________ e. Other Respondent certifies that this firm is a recognized diversity Yes No certificate holder List certifying agency: _______________________________________________ 3. Has Offeror made and is Offeror committed to continuing to take all affirmative steps set forth in 2 CFR 200.321 as it relates to the scope of work outlined in this solicitation? Yes No 364 of 369 Diversity Program Diversity Programs OFS Brands relies on our dealer diversity partners to provide services. We plan to offer this partnership through OMNIA. While OFS Brands manufactures the products, the dealers serve as our subcontractor to provide an array of services including installation, design, reconfiguration, asset inventory management, reupholstery, and storage. Our dealer diversity partners nationally are all categorized as small businesses by the SBA. OFS Brands has 16 dealers that are certified as Texas Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUB). The certificates were verified through https://mycpa.cpa.state.tx.us/tpasscmblsearch/tpasscmblsearch.do which is the site of Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts and the desk of Glenn Hegar with signatures from Paul Gibson and Laura Cagle-Hinojosa. Additional certifications were provided by the South Central Texas Regional Certification Agency. 1. Workplace Resource LLC 2. Texas Wilson Office Furniture 3. Nelson Interiors LLC 4. Office Source LTD- Austin 5. Office Source LTD- San Antonio 6. Facility Interiors Inc. 7. Shelton- Keller Group Inc. 8. Total Office Solutions 9. G.L. Seaman & Company 10. Navajo Office Products LLC 11. Ables-Land Inc. 12. BKM Total Office of Texas LLC 13. Built for Dreams Inc. (listed at State web site as HUB, certificate not received) 14. Austin Business Furniture 15. Kay Davis Associates LLC 16. Intelligent Interiors Inc. ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 365 of 369 Diversity Program Please note that the services accessible through our partnership will be offered to OMNIA at the same pricing available from OFS Brands. ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 366 of 369 Appendix C ADDITIONAL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS DOC #1 Acknowledgment and Acceptance of Region 4 ESC’s Open Records Policy DOC #2 Antitrust Certification Statements (Tex. Government Code § 2155.005) DOC #3 Implementation of House Bill 1295 Certificate of Interested Parties (Form 1295) DOC #4 Texas Government Code 2270 Verification Form DOC #5 Special Conditions DOC #6 Questionnaire DOC #7 For applicable construction/reconstruction/renovation and related services, a bid guarantee is required not less than five percent (5%) of the total bid. Surety shall provide a copy of the Power of Attorney authorizing the Executing Agent the authority to execute the bid bond documents and bind the Surety to the bid bond conditions. The bid bond shall have a corporate Surety that is licensed to conduct business in Texas and authorized to underwrite bonds in the amount of the bid bond. 367 of 369 Addendum 2. Appendix C. Document 7 DOC #7 For applicable construction/reconstruction/renovation and related services, a bid guarantee is required not less than five percent (5%) of the total bid. Surety shall provide a copy of the Power of Attorney authorizing the Executing Agent the authority to execute the bid bond documents and bind the Surety to the bid bond conditions. The bid bond shall have a corporate Surety that is licensed to conduct business in Texas and authorized to underwrite bonds in the amount of the bid bond. OFS response to this RFP does not include construction/reconstruction/renovation and therefore a bond is not included. ofs.com 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 800.521.5381 368 of 369 October 30, 2023 Mr. Ryan Menke rmenke@ofs.com Senior Vice President, Sales & Marketing OFS Brands Inc. 1204 East Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 Re: Renewal Award of Contract #R191813 Dear Mr. Menke: Per official action taken by the Board of Directors of Region 4 Education Service Center on October 24, 2023, Region 4 ESC is pleased to announce that OFS Brands Inc. has been awarded an annual contract renewal for the following, based on the sealed proposal submitted to Region 4 on December 11, 2019, and subsequent performance thereafter: Contract Furniture, Installation and Related Services The contract will expire on April 30, 2025, completing the fifth year of a five-year term contract. The contract is available through OMNIA Partners, Public Sector. Your designated OMNIA Partners, Public Sector contact is Christine Dorantes, at (615) 431-8182 or christine.dorantes@omniapartners.com. The partnership between OFS Brands Inc., Region 4 and OMNIA Partners, Public Sector can be of great help to participating agencies. Please provide copies of this letter to your sales representative(s) to assist in their daily course of business. Sincerely, Robert Zingelmann Chief Financial Officer, Finance and Operations Services DocuSign Envelope ID: 2F78B12A-5C1F-4417-9A50-1FE85538887E PARTICIPATING ADDENDUM for Office Furniture, Related Products and Services under OMNIA Purchasing Cooperative Program Page 1 of 5 Participating Entity: CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Contractor: OFS Brands, Inc. This Agreement (“Agreement”) is made and entered into as of September 10, 2024 (“Effective Date”), by and between Contra Costa County, a political subdivision of the State of California (“County”), and OFS Brands, Inc., an Indiana corporation (“Contractor”), whose principal place of business registered with the California Secretary of State is 1204 E. Sixth Street, Huntingburg, IN 47542. The County and the Contractor are sometimes referred to herein together as the “Parties,” and each as a “Party.” Recitals Whereas, the Contractor offers office furnishings and related products and services under Contract # R191813, dated May 1, 2020, by and between the Contractor and Region 4 Education Service Center, a Texas public agency (the “Master Contract”), a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit A and incorporated herein. The Master Contract was awarded after a competitive solicitation process. The Master Contract is made available to public agencies nationally by OMNIA Public Purchasing Alliance (“OMNIA”). Whereas, the County has determined that entering into a Participating Addendum with Contractor under the OMNIA program provides a benefit to the County, but that certain terms in the Master Contract must be modified to satisfy legal requirements that apply to the County as a California public agency. Agreement NOW, THEREFORE, for good and valuable consideration the receipt and adequacy of which are hereby acknowledged, the Contractor and the County agree as follows: 1. Term. The term of this Agreement begins on the Effective Date, and it expires on April 30, 2025. If the term of the Master Contract is extended, the County and the Contractor may agree to extend this Agreement by up to the same amount of time. Any extension of the term of this Agreement is subject to the prior approval of the County’s Board of Supervisors, its governing body. If the Master Contract is terminated prior to the expiration of the term of this Agreement, the Contractor shall continue to perform under this Agreement until the term of this Agreement expires. 2. Payment Limit. The County’s total payments to the Contractor under this Agreement shall not exceed $800,000 (“Payment Limit”). Nothing in this Agreement obligates the County to make any purchases, or any particular volume of purchases, under this Agreement. 3. Changes to Master Contract. For the purposes of this Agreement, the terms of the Master Contract are incorporated in, and made a part of, this Agreement, except to the extent the terms of the Master Contract are modified by this Agreement, as follows: PARTICIPATING ADDENDUM for Office Furniture, Related Products and Services under OMNIA Purchasing Cooperative Program Page 2 of 5 a. Each reference to “Region 4 Education Service Center” and “Region 4 ESC” in the Master Contract is deleted and replaced with “Contra Costa County” and “County,” respectively. b. The following is added to Section 10 of the Master Contract: “The Contractor, and each distributor or dealer acting at the Contractor’s direction and performing for the County pursuant to this Contract, shall be registered with the California Secretary of State to do business in the State of California, and shall have a designated agent for service of process within that state. The Contractor shall be solely responsible for ensuring a distributor or dealer acting on its behalf provides goods and performs services purchased by the County in accordance with the requirements of this Contract. The Contractor shall be solely responsible for ensuring that it and each distributor or dealer acting at the Contractor’s direction comply with all applicable requirements of California law while performing services under this Contract, which may include but are not limited to the payment of prevailing wages when required under California law.” c. The term “State of Texas” in Section 11(d) (Force Majeure) of the Master Contract is deleted and replaced with “State of California.” d. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in Section 18 (Audit Rights) of the Master Contract, the County’s audit rights under that section shall survive for a period of three (3) years following the date on which this Agreement terminates or expires. e. The last sentence in Section 30 (Indemnity) of the Master Contract is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following: “Any litigation involving the County, its officers, employees, or representatives shall be filed in a state or federal court in the State of California with jurisdiction over the parties and over the subject matter of the litigation. The Contractor’s obligations under this section shall survive the termination or expiration of this Contract.” f. The following is added to Section 32 (Certificates of Insurance) of the Master Contract: “All insurers shall be admitted to issue policies of insurance in the State of California, and each certificate of insurance required to be provided to the County under the Contract shall name “Contra Costa County, its officers, employees, and representatives” as additional insureds. Either (i) all policies of insurance shall cover claims arising from acts or omissions of subcontractors or authorized dealers performing on the Contractor’s behalf, or (ii) the Contractor shall require subcontractors or authorized dealers to satisfy the insurance requirements of this Contract, including naming the above additional insureds on the subcontractor’s or authorized dealer’s certificates of insurance.” g. The following is added as new Section 35 (Public Records) to the Master Contract: PARTICIPATING ADDENDUM for Office Furniture, Related Products and Services under OMNIA Purchasing Cooperative Program Page 3 of 5 “35) Public Records. The County is a California public agency that is required to comply with the California Public Records Act (Cal. Gov. Code, § 6250, et seq.) and the County’s Better Government Ordinance (Contra Costa County Ordinance Code, Division 25), discovery requests, subpoenas, and court orders. Notwithstanding anything to the Contrary in this Contract, this Contract, and all materials produced for or provided to the County under this Contract, will be disclosed upon request if the County determines the materials constitute disclosable public records under the California Public Records Act or under the Better Government Ordinance, or if the County determines the materials are responsive to a discovery request, subpoena, or court order.” 4. Governing Law. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in the Master Contract, this Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of California, without regard to conflict of law principles. Any litigation to enforce or interpret this Agreement shall be filed and prosecuted in a state or federal court in California where venue is proper, and which has jurisdiction over the parties and over the subject matter of the litigation. 5. No Joint Venture. At all times during the term of this Agreement, neither party will function as or represent it to be the other party or its agent, and no officer, employee or agent of one party shall hold himself or herself out to be an officer, employee or agent of the other party. This Agreement does not create any rights or obligations between the parties other than those expressly set forth herein, and nothing in this Agreement shall be construed as conferring any rights upon any third parties or any other party other than the County and Contractor. 6. Amendment. This Agreement may be amended or modified at any time by mutual agreement of the parties in writing. 7. Termination. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in the Master Contract, either the County or the Contractor may terminate this Agreement at any time upon sixty (60) days written notice to the other party at the other party’s address specified in Section 9 (Notices). 8. Performance. Contractor affirms that there are no encumbrances or obstacles, which will prohibit its performance pursuant to the terms of this Agreement. Contractor shall be solely responsible for guaranteeing any of its dealers, distributors, or subcontractors perform in accordance with the requirements of this Agreement. If the County issues any purchase orders to acquire goods or services under this Agreement, to the extent that there is any conflict between the terms of the purchase order and a term in this Agreement, the terms of this Agreement shall govern and prevail over the conflicting term in the purchase order. 9. Notices. Notices to the parties shall be provided to: PARTICIPATING ADDENDUM for Office Furniture, Related Products and Services under OMNIA Purchasing Cooperative Program Page 4 of 5 Contractor OFS Brands, Inc. 1204 E. Sixth Street Huntingburg, IN 47542 Contact: Jim Huebner Telephone: 866-637-9328 x7320 Email: JHuebner@ofs.com Anna McClelland, VP Telephone: 704-771-9003 Email: amcclelland@ofs.com OMNIA Robert Zingelman Telephone: 615-431-8182 Email: Christine.dorantes@omniapartners.com County: Contra Costa County-Purchasing Services 40 Muir Road, 2nd floor Martinez, CA 94553 Telephone: 925-957-2495 Contact: Cynthia Shehorn, Procurement Services Manager Email: cindy.shehorn@pw.cccounty.us All notices shall be in writing and personally delivered, delivered by overnight carrier with delivery charges for next day deliver prepaid by the sending party, or sent by First Class U.S. Mail, with postage prepared by the sending party. A courtesy copy of a notice may be given by email, but giving a courtesy copy of a notice by email does not relieve the sending party of its obligation to give notice to the receiving party in the manner required by this section. A notice given in accordance with this section shall be deemed received by the receiving party on (a) the same day, if personally delivered, (b) the next business day if timely deposited with an overnight carrier and with delivery charges prepaid to ensure next day delivery, and (c) on the fifth day after mailing if mailed by First Class U.S. Mail with postage prepaid. 10. Successors and Assigns; Assignment. This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties and their successors and assigns. This Agreement may not be assigned by either party without the express written permission of the other party, which shall be within that party’s sole discretion to provide. PARTICIPATING ADDENDUM for Office Furniture, Related Products and Services under OMNIA Purchasing Cooperative Program Page 5 of 5 IN WITNESS, WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement as of the Effective Date. Participating Entity: Contra Costa County Contractor: OFS Brands, Inc. Signature: Signature: Name: Cynthia Shehorn Name: Title: Procurement Services Manager Title: Signature: Name: Title: Approved as to form: Thomas L. Geiger, County Counsel By: __________________________ Assistant County Counsel Attachments: Exhibit A – Master Contract with October 30, 2023 Renewal Letter 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2771 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/27/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent to execute, on behalf of the Public Works Department, a Terms of Use Agreement and a purchase order with DLT Solutions LLC, in an amount not to exceed $77,681 for subscription services for Autodesk, civil engineering design and documentation software, for the period from September 19, 2024 to September 18, 2025 (100% Roads, Flood Control, and Special District Funds) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Warren Lai, Public Works Director/Chief Engineer Report Title:Purchase Order for DLT Solutions LLC for Autodesk Subscription ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent to execute,on behalf of the Public Works Department,a Terms of Use Agreement and a purchase order with DLT Solutions LLC,in an amount not to exceed $77,681 for subscription services for Autodesk for the period from September 19, 2024 to September 18, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: 100% Roads, Flood Control, and Special District Funds BACKGROUND: The Public Works Department uses the Autodesk subscription services including AutoCAD for design and delivery of Public Works projects. This software allows for Autodesk Civil 3D software is a civil engineering, surveying design and documentation software. Civil 3D aids in the improvement of project delivery, the maintenance of more consistent data and processes, and the quick response to project changes. Additionally, users can use specialized tools and customizable design standards to speed up time-consuming operations including intersection, roundabout, and corridor design, parcel layout, pipelines, and grading The DLT Solutions LLC Terms of Use include Limitations on Liability language which require Board approval. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If the purchase order is not approved the Public Works Department will not be able to complete capital improvement projects,surveying of right-of-way and research,design and construction projects and oversite of CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2771,Version:1 improvement projects,surveying of right-of-way and research,design and construction projects and oversite of the consultants that the County uses. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 2/6/24, 11:50 AM Terms of Use | General Terms | Autodesk https://www.autodesk.com/company/terms-of-use/en/general-terms 1/24 Terms of Use Effective Date: May 26, 2023 General Terms These Terms apply to your account with Autodesk and to our Offerings and constitute a binding contract between us. PLEASE NOTE THAT SECTION 17.4 (AUTODESK PARTY, GOVERNING LAW, DISPUTE RESOLUTION) BELOW CONTAINS MANDATORY ARBITRATION AND CLASS ACTION WAIVER PROVISIONS THAT MAY GOVERN ANY RESOLUTION OF DISPUTES BETWEEN YOU AND AUTODESK. PLEASE READ THESE TERMS (INCLUDING SECTION 17.4) CAREFULLY. 1. Acceptance By accepting these General Terms during your account registration or subscription process, or by accessing or using our Offerings, you confirm your acceptance of these General Terms and other applicable Terms and your agreement to be a party to this binding contract. If you do not agree to these Terms, you must not access or use our Offerings. You agree to these Terms on behalf of the company or other legal entity for which you are acting (for example, as an employee or contractor) or, if there is no company or legal entity, on behalf of yourself as an individual (in either case, “You”). You represent and warrant that you have the right and authority (as well as the capacity—for example, you are of sufficient legal age) to act on behalf of and bind such entity (if any) and yourself. Additional capitalized terms are defined in these Terms, including in Section 18 (Definitions) below. 2. Special Terms 2/6/24, 11:50 AM Terms of Use | General Terms | Autodesk https://www.autodesk.com/company/terms-of-use/en/general-terms 2/24 Some Offerings may be subject to special terms set forth in the or in the Documentation for the Offerings (“Special Terms”). You agree to the Special Terms, if any, for an Offering that You subscribe to, access, or use. 3. Return for Refund For a limited period, if You (a) object to any of these Terms, (b) object to any Autodesk terms of purchase or auto-renewal applicable to the purchase or renewal, or (c) are dissatisfied (for any reason) with the Offering to which You subscribed, You may return the Offering and may qualify for a refund under the . 4. Your Account You are responsible for anyone who obtains, accesses, or uses Offerings through You or Your account (including Your Authorized Users) and their compliance with these Terms as though each of them is You. In certain cases, Your Authorized Users may be required to set up individual accounts or agree to applicable terms in order to obtain, access, or use Offerings, but You remain responsible. You also agree to secure and not share user IDs or passwords (except with authorized account administrators). If You suspect unauthorized use of Your account, please contact . 5. You Own Your Work You will retain Your ownership rights to files, designs, models, data sets, images, documents or similar material created by You (or Your Authorized Users) and submitted or uploaded to an Offering by You (or Your Authorized Users). 6. Privacy Autodesk is committed to protecting Your privacy and letting You know what Autodesk will do with Your personal data. Autodesk’s sets forth how Autodesk may collect, use, store and process personal data of or relating to You, and how You may request access to or deletion of Your personal data. Special Terms (https://www.autodesk.com/company/terms-of-use/en/special-terms) Autodesk Return Policy (https://www.autodesk.com/customer/help?guid=GUID- 0D758126-DBBC-4489-8DBF-924977E9DC94#refund-policy) https://www.autodesk.com/trust/contact-us (https://www.autodesk.com/trust/contact-us) Privacy Statement (https://www.autodesk.com/company/legal-notices- trademarks/privacy-statement) 2/6/24, 11:50 AM Terms of Use | General Terms | Autodesk https://www.autodesk.com/company/terms-of-use/en/general-terms 3/24 Autodesk offers a Data Processing Addendum, available on our , which sets forth Autodesk’s obligations as a processor for personal data under the General Data Protection Regulation. 7. Offering Term Each subscription to an Offering is for a fixed, limited time period (the “Offering Term”). The length of the Offering Term will be indicated in the Offering Identification. Certain subscriptions may renew automatically. If you would like to cancel any automatic renewal, please see . 8. Offerings 8.1 Rights to Offerings For any Offering consisting of Software or a Cloud Service that Autodesk makes available or provides to You, and subject to compliance with these Terms and all payment obligations, including any taxes and other fees, Autodesk grants to You a non-exclusive right to use the Offering (and permit Your Authorized Users to use the Offering) solely (a) during the Offering Term, (b) in accordance with any applicable Special Terms, and (c) within the scope of Your subscription, including the permitted number, Offering Type, Territory and other attributes specified for the type and level that You selected when subscribing for the Offering. If Your Offering Identification does not specify those attributes, the Offering will have the attributes of a Trial Version. Except as expressly authorized by these Terms, or as otherwise expressly permitted in writing by Autodesk, You will not: (i) reproduce, modify, adapt, translate, port, or create derivative works of all or any portion of any Offering, except as expressly permitted by applicable law notwithstanding a contractual prohibition to the contrary, or (ii) sublicense, transfer, distribute, transmit, sell, lease, rent, loan, or otherwise make available all or any portion or functionality of any Offering to a third party (whether on a service bureau basis or otherwise). Any Software (including any Update or Upgrade) that Autodesk makes available or delivers to You is licensed for a limited subscription period, not sold. You may make one archival copy of the Software You subscribed to solely for Your backup and archival purposes for the duration of the Offering Term. 8.2 Access to Software and Cloud Services Subject to compliance with these Terms, Autodesk will, during the Offering Term, make Offerings available to You through Your account or other electronic means. Autodesk will not be liable for any losses or other liability incurred by You or others due to sending Your account information to an incorrect address. You may be required to log into Your account or provide Autodesk additional information to activate, access, or use an Offering. Some Offerings may cause Your computers or other devices to automatically connect to the internet (intermittently or on a regular basis)—for example, to validate the proper use of Your subscription, provide You with access to services (including third-party services), or download and install Updates or Upgrades, all without further notice to You. You and Your Trust Center (https://www.autodesk.com/trust/privacy) Cancelling Automatic Renewal for Subscriptions (https://www.autodesk.com/support/account/manage/billing/cancel) 2/6/24, 11:50 AM Terms of Use | General Terms | Autodesk https://www.autodesk.com/company/terms-of-use/en/general-terms 4/24 Authorized Users agree to such connection and to validation of Your subscription and to the automatic downloading and installation of Updates and Upgrades. You may not be able to adjust Your Update or Upgrade settings for certain Offerings, including those for which automatic Updates or Upgrades are required for operation or security of the Offering. During the Offering Term, Autodesk may make available or deliver Updates or Upgrades to Software. You will promptly install any mandatory Updates. 8.3 Autodesk APIs In connection with an Offering, you may have access to standard application programming interfaces, software development kits, tools, libraries, scripts, sample source code and similar developer material (collectively, “APIs”). Unless otherwise specified in the applicable Special Terms (including Documentation), You may use the APIs only (a) for the Offering for which you have a subscription and for which the APIs are provided, (b) during the Offering Term, (c) in accordance with the Special Terms (including Documentation) specific to the APIs, and (d) to develop applications, services, modules, or components solely for Your internal business use. 8.4 Use of Third-Party Material and Services Autodesk may provide You with content, designs, models, data sets, project information, documents, libraries, audio, links, data, applications and other software, services, or other material of a third party (collectively, “Third-Party Material/Services”) in connection with Offerings. Any Third-Party Material/Services may be governed by different terms found in or with such Third-Party Material/Services (for example, in the “About Box,” a .txt file, or accompanying license terms), on a registration page of a third party, or in the Special Terms (including Documentation) for the Offering for which the Third-Party Materials/Services are provided (collectively, “Third-Party Terms”). If there are no Third-Party Terms, Your use will be (a) subject to the same terms as the Offering for which You received the Third-Party Material/Services, (b) solely in connection with Your use of such Offering, and (c) limited to the Offering Term. You take sole responsibility for determining, obtaining and complying with all Third-Party Terms. Autodesk will have no responsibility for, and makes no representations or warranties regarding, (i) any Third-Party Material/Services or Your use of Third- Party Material/Services, and (ii) any Third-Party Terms or Your compliance with such Third-Party Terms. 8.5 Use of Your Content In order for You to access or use certain Offerings, or for Autodesk to provide You with certain services, You may wish to upload or otherwise share Your Content. Autodesk personnel will not use Your Content except (a) at Your request, or with Your consent; (b) in connection with providing and improving Offerings (including maintaining, securing, updating, or otherwise modifying Offerings); or (c) in connection with legal obligations, enforcement, investigations, or proceedings. Autodesk may block or remove Your Content for any reason, including non-compliance with these Terms. When You provide or make accessible Your Content, You authorize Autodesk and its designees to use, reproduce, modify, distribute and make available Your Content in connection with providing You with Offerings and the other activities contemplated by these Terms. You are responsible for ensuring that (i) Your Content and its use with any Offering comply with all applicable laws and regulations and these Terms, (ii) Your Content will not infringe or misappropriate any intellectual property or proprietary rights of any person, and (iii) You secure backup copies of Your Content at all times. You acknowledge that online services may suffer disruptions or outages, and You may not be able to retrieve Your Content as a result. () 2/6/24, 11:50 AM Terms of Use | General Terms | Autodesk https://www.autodesk.com/company/terms-of-use/en/general-terms 5/24 You will indemnify and hold harmless (and, at Autodesk’s request, defend) Autodesk against any and all losses, liabilities, expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees) suffered or incurred by Autodesk by reason of any claim, suit or proceeding arising out of or relating to (1) Your Content; (2) Your (including Your Authorized Users’) use of Offerings, including any Output or other results produced by such use; and (3) Your (including Your Authorized Users’) breach of these Terms (including any Additional Agreement, Special Terms, or other applicable terms). 8.6 Collaboration and Sharing of Your Content Some Offerings permit You to collaborate with others, including sharing or publishing Your Content. If You choose to share or publish Your Content, others may be able to use, sell, reproduce, modify, distribute, make available, display, transmit and communicate Your Content, and suspending or terminating access will not delete or inhibit access to any of Your Content that was earlier shared or published. If You do not want others to have any such access or any of those rights, do not use the sharing, publishing, or other collaboration features of the Offerings and set Your permissions accordingly. Keep in mind that forums and galleries may be public, and submissions are generally public. An Offering may feature links to Third-Party Material/Services. Such links are provided as a convenience to You. Autodesk does not monitor or control what such third parties will do with Your Content. You are responsible for ensuring the appropriate level of access to Your Content by any third party. If You authorize any of Your Content to be shared with any third party, Autodesk may make Your Content available to such third party; Autodesk will, however, have no responsibility or liability for the actions of such third party. 9. Trial Versions Autodesk may make available or deliver Offerings (or features of an Offering) described as “not for resale,” “free,” “evaluation,” “trial,” “pre-release,” “beta,” or another similar designation (collectively, “Trial Versions”). Except as expressly set forth in the Documentation for the Trial Version or applicable Special Terms, (a) you may access or use the Trial Version only for a period of 30 days from download or receipt, (b) Your use will be limited to non-commercial evaluation purposes, (c) the use of a Trial Version will be only by You as an individual or, if You are an entity, by one named employee, and (d) the Trial Version may only be used within the Territory where You acquired the Offering. Notwithstanding any other provisions in these Terms, (i) Autodesk makes no commitments with respect to Trial Versions, including any commitment to continue any Trial Version or to convert any Trial Version into an Offering; (ii) Autodesk constantly conducts research to improve our Offerings and makes no commitment that such research will be commercially released in an Offering; and (iii) Trial Versions may contain code that is not fully tested, including errors and faults that may cause total data loss or system failure. Subscriptions to Trial Versions do not include subscription Benefits, and Autodesk reserves the right, without any further notice, to end any Trial Versions at any time. 10. Feedback If You provide Autodesk with ideas for improvement, suggestions, or other feedback (collectively, “Feedback”), You hereby grant to Autodesk a non-exclusive, transferable, irrevocable, worldwide, 2/6/24, 11:50 AM Terms of Use | General Terms | Autodesk https://www.autodesk.com/company/terms-of-use/en/general-terms 6/24 royalty-free license (with rights to sublicense) to make, use, sell, offer to sell, reproduce, modify, distribute, make available, publicly display and perform, disclose and otherwise exploit the Feedback and any Offerings using the Feedback. 11. Limitations on Use 11.1 Offerings are tools The Offerings are tools and are intended only to assist You with Your design, analysis, simulation, estimation, testing and other activities and are not a substitute for Your professional judgment or Your own independent design, analysis, simulation, estimation, testing, or other activities, including, for example, those with respect to product stress, safety and utility. You acknowledge that the Offerings may not have been designed or tested for Your specific use, and the Offerings and Output may not achieve the results You desire within Your constraints. It is Your responsibility to (a) determine whether the use of an Offering is appropriate for Your purposes, (b) determine the appropriate use for the Offerings, and (c) select the Offerings and other computer programs and materials, in each case to help achieve Your intended results or Output. You acknowledge that as between You and Autodesk, You are solely responsible for (i) Your (including Your Authorized Users’) use of the Offerings and any results produced by the Offerings, including any Output, and (ii) establishing the adequacy of independent procedures for testing the reliability, safety, accuracy, completeness, compliance with applicable legal requirements and industry standards, and other characteristics of any Output, including insights, recommendations, and all items designed with the assistance of the Offerings. Autodesk will not be responsible or liable in any manner whatsoever for the results obtained through use of the Offerings, including any Output. 11.2 Offerings Not Designed for Sensitive Personal Data The data storage functionality associated with Offerings is NOT suitable for the storage of Social Security numbers, credit or debit card numbers, financial account numbers, driver’s license numbers, medical information, or health insurance information; data about personal characteristics or other personal data, such as race or ethnic origin, religion or philosophical beliefs, political affiliation or opinions, genetic or biometric data, sexual orientation, or trade union membership; or other information that may expose, or pose a risk of harm to, an individual if improperly disclosed or used (collectively, “Sensitive Personal Data”). Except as expressly required by Autodesk (for example, a credit card number used to purchase a subscription), You will not upload or otherwise make available to Autodesk any Sensitive Personal Data, including any files containing Sensitive Personal Data, in connection with Your use of any Offering. 11.3 Acceptable Use of Offerings You will access and use (and permit access to and use of) Offerings only in compliance with the and all applicable laws. 12. Confidentiality Acceptable Use Policy (https://www.autodesk.com/company/terms-of-use/en/acceptable-use) 2/6/24, 11:50 AM Terms of Use | General Terms | Autodesk https://www.autodesk.com/company/terms-of-use/en/general-terms 7/24 You or Autodesk (as the “Disclosing Party ”) may disclose or make available Confidential Information to the other party (as the “Receiving Party ”) in connection with these Terms. The Receiving Party will use the same degree of care as to the Disclosing Party ’s Confidential Information that it uses to protect its own confidential information of like kind (but in no event less than reasonable care) and will (a) use the Confidential Information of the Disclosing Party only in connection with Offerings, and (b) except as otherwise authorized by the Disclosing Party in writing, limit access to the Confidential Information of the Disclosing Party to those of its employees, consultants, contractors, service providers, professional advisors and other individuals who need such access for purposes related to Offerings and who are subject to confidentiality obligations with the Receiving Party no less stringent than those in these Terms. The Receiving Party may disclose Confidential Information of the Disclosing Party if it is compelled by law to do so. The Receiving Party will give the Disclosing Party prior notice of such compelled disclosure (to the extent legally permitted) and take reasonable steps to limit such disclosure. Autodesk may also disclose Your Confidential Information to comply with any governmental or regulatory body request (including subpoenas or court orders), as part of a legal proceeding involving Autodesk, or at Your request. If disclosure is made at Your request, You may be responsible for the costs of compiling and providing access to Your Confidential Information. 13. Autodesk Proprietary Rights You acknowledge and agree that Autodesk and its licensors and suppliers will have ownership of and all rights with respect to (a) the Offerings, Documentation, APIs, and other information or material made available to You by Autodesk, including any copies of the foregoing, (b) any materials or other information based on, derived from, or otherwise using any of the foregoing (including Metrics), and (c) all rights under trade secrets, copyrights, trademarks, patents, and any other intellectual property or proprietary rights relating to any of the foregoing. The structure and organization, the underlying algorithms and other internals, the protocols, data structures and other externals, and the source code of the Offerings and the APIs constitute proprietary and confidential information of Autodesk, and You will not disclose such information to third parties, or use such information for any purpose other than as required for ordinary-course access to and use of the Offerings as set forth in these Terms, without Autodesk’s prior written consent. You will not access or attempt to access the Offerings by any means other than the interface Autodesk provides or authorizes. You will not engage in any decompiling, disassembling, or other reverse engineering, or otherwise attempt to discover, learn, or study the structure or organization, underlying algorithms or other internals, protocols, data structures or other externals, or the source code of the Offerings or APIs, except as expressly permitted under applicable law notwithstanding a contractual prohibition to the contrary. Autodesk may make available or provide access to other confidential and proprietary information (either marked as such or understood to be such under the circumstances) to enable Your access or use of the Offerings, and any such information will be deemed to be Autodesk Confidential Information. You have only the rights expressly granted to You under these Terms (including the Special Terms). All rights not expressly granted are reserved by Autodesk and its licensors and suppliers; Autodesk and its licensors and suppliers expressly disclaim (and You agree not to assert) any other rights. You will not take any action, or authorize, encourage, or assist any third party to take any action, inconsistent with this Section 13. 2/6/24, 11:50 AM Terms of Use | General Terms | Autodesk https://www.autodesk.com/company/terms-of-use/en/general-terms 8/24 14. Limited Warranty, Disclaimers, Limitations on Liability 14.1 Limited Warranty Autodesk warrants that, for any paid subscription, as of the date on which the subscribed-for Offering is made available to You and for 90 days thereafter or, if the Offering Term is shorter, such shorter period (“Warranty Period”), the Offering will provide the general features and functions described in the end-user Documentation for the Offering. Autodesk’s entire obligation and liability, and Your sole and exclusive remedy, for Autodesk’s breach of this warranty will be for Autodesk, at its option, (a) to attempt reasonably to remedy the breach or (b) to refund the amounts received for the affected subscription and terminate such subscription. You will bring any warranty claim for any Offering within its applicable Warranty Period, and any warranty claims You bring after such Warranty Period will be excluded. 14.2 Disclaimers EXCEPT FOR THE EXPRESS LIMITED WARRANTY SET FORTH IN SECTION 14.1 (LIMITED WARRANTY) ABOVE, AND ANY EXPRESS WARRANTIES SET FORTH AS SUCH IN ANY ADDITIONAL AGREEMENT OR SPECIAL TERMS, TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, (a) THE OFFERINGS (INCLUDING ANY RELATED SOFTWARE, CLOUD SERVICE, DOCUMENTATION, APIS, OR OTHER MATERIALS) ARE PROVIDED “AS IS,” “WITH ALL FAULTS,” AND WITHOUT WARRANTY OR CONDITION OF ANY KIND AND (b) AUTODESK AND ITS LICENSORS AND SUPPLIERS MAKE, AND YOU RECEIVE, NO WARRANTIES, REPRESENTATIONS, CONDITIONS, OR COMMITMENTS OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, ORAL OR WRITTEN, WITH RESPECT TO ANY OF THE OFFERINGS OR ANY OUTPUT, INCLUDING ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY, SATISFACTORY QUALITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, TITLE AND NON-INFRINGEMENT, OR QUIET ENJOYMENT, ANY WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS IMPLIED BY STATUTE, OR ANY WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS BASED ON A COURSE OF DEALING, USAGE OF TRADE OR INDUSTRY STANDARDS. Any statements by Autodesk or its third- party agents, representatives, or service providers about the Offerings (including any statements about their functionality or performance) or Output, or other communications with You (including any insights, recommendations, guidance, assessments, projections, estimates or opinions), that are not contained in these Terms (including any Additional Agreement or Special Terms) are for information purposes only and do not constitute a warranty, representation, condition, or other commitment. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, Autodesk and its licensors and suppliers do not warrant or otherwise commit that (i) the Offerings or Output, or Your access thereto or use thereof, will be available, uninterrupted, timely, error-free, secure, accurate, reliable, or complete, (ii) the Offerings will meet any particular performance, availability or service-level criteria, (iii) Your Content will not be lost or damaged, or (iv) errors or defects will be corrected or any particular support requests will be resolved to meet Your needs or expectations. Also, for clarity, (1) any reference to “unlimited” access, use, storage, or otherwise with respect to an Offering is subject to the technical limitations of the Offering, and (2) some Offerings or functionality may not be available in all locations (including the Territory) or languages. 14.3 Limitations on Liability NEITHER AUTODESK NOR ANY OF ITS LICENSORS OR SUPPLIERS WILL HAVE ANY LIABILITY (DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY) FOR ANY INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES; LOSS OF PROFITS OR REVENUE; BUSINESS INTERRUPTION OR LOSS OF USE; COST OF PROCUREMENT OF SUBSTITUTE GOODS OR SERVICES OR OTHER COVER; FAILURE OF, OR DEFECTS IN, THE OUTPUT; LOSS, CORRUPTION, OR DELETION OF (OR FAILURE TO DELETE) DATA OR 2/6/24, 11:50 AM Terms of Use | General Terms | Autodesk https://www.autodesk.com/company/terms-of-use/en/general-terms 9/24 YOUR CONTENT; OR DAMAGES RESULTING FROM FORCE MAJEURE. THE AGGREGATE LIABILITY OF AUTODESK AND ITS LICENSORS AND SUPPLIERS WITH RESPECT TO ANY OFFERING OR OUTPUT THEREOF WILL IN NO EVENT EXCEED THE GREATER OF (a) THE AMOUNT PAID OR PAYABLE BY YOU FOR THE OFFERING IN THE ONE-YEAR PERIOD BEFORE THE EVENTS OR CIRCUMSTANCES GIVING RISE TO THE LIABILITY FIRST OCCURRED, OR (b) US$1000. YOU ACKNOWLEDGE AND AGREE THAT THE DISCLAIMERS AND LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY IN THESE TERMS CONSTITUTE AN ESSENTIAL ELEMENT OF THE BARGAIN BETWEEN YOU AND AUTODESK, AND THAT AUTODESK WOULD NOT HAVE PROVIDED THE OFFERINGS TO YOU WITHOUT YOUR AGREEMENT TO EACH OF THESE TERMS. THE LIMITATIONS ON LIABILITY IN THESE TERMS WILL APPLY TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW TO ANY DAMAGES OR OTHER LIABILITY, HOWEVER CAUSED AND REGARDLESS OF THE THEORY OF LIABILITY, WHETHER BASED ON CONTRACT, TORT (INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE AND STRICT LIABILITY), INDEMNIFICATION, RECOURSE, STATUTE, OR OTHERWISE, AND EVEN IF AUTODESK HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF THE LIABILITY OR THE LIABILITY IS OTHERWISE FORESEEABLE, AND REGARDLESS OF WHETHER THE LIMITED REMEDIES IN THESE TERMS FAIL OF THEIR ESSENTIAL PURPOSE. NOTHING IN THESE TERMS RESTRICTS OR EXCLUDES AUTODESK’S LIABILITY FOR (i) DEATH OR PERSONAL INJURY CAUSED BY AUTODESK’S WILLFUL MISCONDUCT OR GROSS NEGLIGENCE, OR (ii) YOUR DAMAGES OR LOSSES CAUSED BY AUTODESK’S FRAUD. ALSO, AUTODESK DOES NOT SEEK TO LIMIT YOUR WARRANTIES, YOUR OTHER RIGHTS AND REMEDIES, OR THE LIABILITY OF AUTODESK FOR DAMAGES OR LOSSES TO THE EXTENT THE LIMITS ARE NOT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW (SUCH AS STATUTORY WARRANTIES, CONDITIONS, REMEDIES, OR LIABILITIES THAT CANNOT BE EXCLUDED BY APPLICABLE LAW). THESE TERMS GIVE YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, AND YOU MAY ALSO HAVE OTHER LEGAL RIGHTS, WHICH VARY FROM JURISDICTION TO JURISDICTION, INCLUDING LEGAL RIGHTS DESCRIBED IN SECTION 19 (COUNTRY/JURISDICTION-SPECIFIC TERMS) BELOW. 15. Indemnity Subject to these Terms, Autodesk will defend You against any claim brought against You by a third party alleging that any Covered Offering infringes such third party ’s patent, copyright, trademark, or trade secret rights (“IP Claim”), and Autodesk will pay damages finally awarded against You (or any settlement amount agreed to in writing by Autodesk) as a result of the IP Claim, provided You (a) promptly notify Autodesk of the IP Claim, (b) give Autodesk sole control of the defense and settlement of the IP Claim, and (c) promptly provide Autodesk with any assistance and cooperation requested by Autodesk in connection with the defense and settlement. These defense and payment obligations do not apply if (i) the IP Claim arises from, or is based on, the use or combination of the Covered Offering with any software, hardware, data, material, or service not provided by Autodesk, (ii) the IP Claim covers any method or process not fully embodied in the Covered Offering, (iii) there is available an Update or Upgrade that avoids the infringement alleged in the IP Claim, or (iv) You have been in breach of these Terms. If Autodesk receives information about an infringement claim related to any Offering, Autodesk may, in its discretion, (1) modify or replace the Offering, (2) obtain a license for Your continued use of the Offering, and/or (3) terminate Your subscription for the Offering and refund any prepaid fees covering the remainder of the Offering Term of the terminated subscription. This Section 15 states Autodesk’s sole obligations and Your exclusive remedy for any infringement of any third-party intellectual property rights. 2/6/24, 11:50 AM Terms of Use | General Terms | Autodesk https://www.autodesk.com/company/terms-of-use/en/general-terms 10/24 16. Term, Termination, Suspension These Terms become effective on the first date accepted in accordance with Section 1 (Acceptance) above and continue in effect indefinitely unless terminated in accordance with the provisions of these Terms, including this Section 16. 16.1 Your Right to Terminate You may terminate Your subscriptions and these Terms if Autodesk is in material breach of these Terms and fails to cure such breach within 30 days after written notice of the breach. 16.2 Autodesk’s Right to Terminate or Suspend a Subscription or Account Autodesk may terminate (or disable or suspend Your access to and use of) any or all of Your subscriptions or other Offerings, or terminate these Terms and Your account, if (a) You have no current paid subscriptions; (b) You have failed to timely pay any amounts (including fees and taxes) owing to Autodesk; (c) You (including any of Your Authorized Users) are otherwise in material breach of these Terms and fail to cure such breach within 30 days after written notice of the breach; or (d) You become subject to bankruptcy or insolvency proceedings, become insolvent, make an arrangement with or affecting Your creditors (including an assignment for the benefit of creditor) or commence a process of liquidation. These Terms will automatically terminate without further notice or action by Autodesk if You go into liquidation. Autodesk may also immediately disable or suspend Your access to and use of Offerings and Your Content if Autodesk believes in good faith that Your (or Your Authorized Users’) conduct or failure to act, or Your Content, may (i) pose a security risk, constitute illegal activity, or otherwise adversely impact Offerings, systems, or other users, (ii) constitute or enable tampering with, removing, disabling or otherwise limiting the effectiveness of any technical protections, or (iii) subject Autodesk, or its suppliers, resellers, distributors, users, or any similar third parties, to liability. 16.3 Effect of Termination of Subscription Upon expiration or termination of a subscription or other Offering for any reason, Your rights with respect to that Offering, including any related Software license, Cloud Service access, and Benefits, will end. At that time, You will stop all access to and use of the Offering and uninstall any and all copies of materials related to such Offering (including any related Software, Documentation, APIs, or other material from Autodesk). In addition, at Autodesk’s request, You will destroy any such copies or return them to Autodesk or the party from which You acquired the Offering. You will retain proof that You returned or destroyed all such copies. In connection with the expiration or termination of a subscription, (a) as a convenience to You for some Cloud Services, Autodesk may provide You with a brief period (for example, 30 days) in which You may retrieve Your Content after expiration or termination of the Cloud Services, if You are in compliance with these Terms and pay the applicable fees, if any (for example, Autodesk’s then-current professional services fees for any assistance Autodesk provides), and (b) otherwise, Autodesk may delete, without notice, any or all of Your Content, including backup and other copies thereof. 16.4 Effect of Termination of Terms or Account Upon any termination of these Terms for any reason, (a) Your account and Your subscriptions and other Offerings, including those of Your Authorized Users, will immediately terminate, and (b) the effects described above with respect to expiration or termination of a subscription or other Offering will apply to all subscriptions and other Offerings attached to Your account. Your payment obligations, Your responsibility for anyone who obtains, accesses, or uses Offerings through You or Your account 2/6/24, 11:50 AM Terms of Use | General Terms | Autodesk https://www.autodesk.com/company/terms-of-use/en/general-terms 11/24 (including Your Authorized Users) (including the responsibility described in Section 4 (Your Account)), and the following sections of these General Terms will survive termination for any reason: Section 5 (You Own Your Work); Section 8.3 (Autodesk APIs); Section 8.4 (Use of Third-Party Material and Services); Section 8.5 (Use of Your Content); Section 8.6 (Collaboration and Sharing of Your Content); Section 10 (Feedback); Section 11 (Limitations on Use); Section 12 (Confidentiality); Section 13 (Autodesk Proprietary Rights); Section 14.2 (Disclaimers); Section 14.3 (Limitations on Liability); Section 16.3 (Effect of Termination of Subscription); this Section 16.4; Section 17 (Miscellaneous), including Section 17.4 (Autodesk Party, Governing Law, Dispute Resolution); Section 18 (Definitions); and Section 19 (Country/Jurisdiction-Specific Terms). 17. Miscellaneous 17.1 Changes to the Offerings Autodesk reserves the right from time to time to (a) modify, discontinue, or substitute an Offering (including any Benefits, features, functionality, or supporting services related to the Offering), or (b) add or modify license keys, authorizations or other means of controlling or measuring access to or use of the Offerings. Autodesk will endeavor to notify You of any major changes to an Offering in the applicable release notes or other Documentation for the Offering. 17.2 Changes to Terms To the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, Autodesk reserves the right from time to time to (and You acknowledge that Autodesk may) modify these Terms. Autodesk will endeavor to notify You of any changes to these Terms (“Terms Modification Notice”), including by posting to this site. It is your responsibility to regularly check this site for updates, including Terms Modification Notices. Except as otherwise expressly set forth in these Terms, if any modification to the Terms has a material adverse effect on You and You do not agree to the modification, You may reject the modification by notifying Autodesk of the rejection within 30 days of the Terms Modification Notice. If You reject a modification under these circumstances, (a) Your access to and use of any Offerings affected by the modification will continue to be governed by the terms in effect immediately before the modification (except to the extent the modification was made for security, privacy, or legal compliance reasons, in which case the modification will be effective immediately) until the earlier of (i) the end of the applicable Offering Term, or (ii) 180 days after the Terms Modification Notice; and (b) Your rights to such Offerings, including any related subscription Benefits, will then terminate. In the event of such a termination by You, Autodesk (or the party from whom You purchased Your subscription) will refund the prorated portion of any prepaid fees applicable to the remaining Offering Term of Your subscription for the affected Offerings after the effective date of termination. In any event, if any subscription is renewed or extended, it will be under the then-current Terms. Notices by You or Autodesk will be provided as set forth below, except that You may also provide Your notice of rejection via email (within the 30-day period described above) to the following email address , or in any other manner specified in the Terms Modification Notice. Notwithstanding the forgoing, if the Special Terms, Offering Types and Benefits, or other policies include different terms or procedures for modification thereof, modification may, at Autodesk’s option, be handled as described therein. You acknowledge that Your commitments with respect to the Offerings and subscription Benefits are not contingent on delivery of future features or functionality (or oral or written statements about Terms.Modification.Rejection@autodesk.com (mailto:Terms.Modification.Rejection@autodesk.com) 2/6/24, 11:50 AM Terms of Use | General Terms | Autodesk https://www.autodesk.com/company/terms-of-use/en/general-terms 12/24 future features or functionality). 17.3 Language of Terms, Interpretation The English language version of these Terms will be the version used when interpreting or construing these Terms, and any notices or other communications in connection with these Terms will be provided in the English language. Any reference in these Terms to “days” are to calendar days unless otherwise specified. The words “including” and “for example” or “e.g.,” and words of similar import, are not limiting or exclusive and will be deemed followed by “without limitation,” whether or not such language is included. Section and other headings are for ease of reference only and are not to be used to interpret the meaning of any provision. Any rights and remedies provided for in these Terms are cumulative and are in addition to, and not in lieu of, any other rights and remedies available under applicable law. 17.4 Autodesk Party, Governing Law, Dispute Resolution (a) General Depending on where Your principal place of business is (or, if You are an individual, where You are resident), these Terms are between You and the Autodesk Party set out below. The governing law for these Terms, including any rights, obligations and claims of the parties, will be as specified below. Similarly, any dispute or claim arising out of or relating to these Terms, including the breach, performance, termination, enforcement, interpretation, or validity of these Terms (and whether under contract, tort, including strict liability, competition law, or otherwise), and including the determination of the scope or applicability of the dispute resolution provisions of these Terms, will be finally determined under the law, in the location and by the dispute resolution process specified below (except as may be specified in Section 19 (Country/Jurisdiction-Specific Terms) below. Your principal place of business (or, if You are an individual, the place of Your residency) References to “Autodesk Party ” means the following Autodesk entity: Governing law is:Exclusive jurisdiction/forum for dispute resolution: United States and Canada Autodesk, Inc., a Delaware corporation (i) State of California, and (ii) to the extent controlling, federal laws of the United States Arbitration administered by ADR Services, Inc. (“ADR Services”), pursuant to Section 17.4(b) below and (to the extent not inconsistent with such section) in accordance with the arbitration rules of ADR Services as in effect when the notice of arbitration is submitted. The seat of the 2/6/24, 11:50 AM Terms of Use | General Terms | Autodesk https://www.autodesk.com/company/terms-of-use/en/general-terms 13/24 arbitration will be San Francisco. Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau Autodesk, Inc., a Delaware corporation Singapore Arbitration administered by the Singapore International Arbitration Centre (“SIAC”) in accordance with the Arbitration Rules of the SIAC as in effect when the notice of arbitration is submitted. The seat of the arbitration will be Singapore. Asia, Oceania, and the Asia- Pacific region, other than Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau Autodesk, Inc., a Delaware corporation Singapore Courts of Singapore Europe, the Middle East, and Africa Autodesk Ireland Operations Unlimited Company, an Irish company Ireland Courts of Ireland Worldwide (unless in a country or region described above), including Mexico, South America, Central America, Caribbean region, Autodesk, Inc., a Delaware corporation (i) State of California, and (ii) to the extent controlling, federal laws of the United States (i) United States District Court for the Northern District of California in San Francisco, or (ii) courts of the State of California, County of San Francisco. 2/6/24, 11:50 AM Terms of Use | General Terms | Autodesk https://www.autodesk.com/company/terms-of-use/en/general-terms 14/24 and Antarctica (b) Binding Arbitration and Dispute Resolution for United States and Canada If Your principal place of business (or, if You are an individual, Your residence) is in the United States or Canada, the following informal dispute resolution and binding arbitration provisions apply to You: (i) Informal Dispute Resolution and Binding Arbitration Autodesk seeks to resolve any claim or dispute (“Claim”) informally. If You or Autodesk have a Claim arising out of or relating to an Offering or these Terms, You and Autodesk will first seek to resolve the Claim informally by providing notice of the Claim in the manner described below for Notices and cooperating with the other party to try to address the matter amicably. If the Claim is not resolved through informal dispute resolution within 30 days after receipt of the notice of a Claim, either party may proceed with formal dispute resolution. You and Autodesk agree to binding individual arbitration of any Claim arising out of or relating to an Offering or these Terms and waive any right to go to court and have a trial in front of a judge or jury. The United States Federal Arbitration Act, including its procedural provisions, and not state law, governs the interpretation and enforcement of this dispute-resolution provision. Arbitration will be conducted by ADR Services pursuant to its rules and as set forth in this Section 17.4. To commence arbitration, a party must send a written demand for arbitration that describes the Claim and request for relief with the details required by the ADR Services rules (“Demand”). Any Demand from You to Autodesk must be sent to Autodesk, Inc., The Landmark @ One Market, Suite 400, San Francisco, California 94105 USA, Attention: Chief Legal Officer. Any Demand from Autodesk to You must be sent to the address You provided during the informal dispute-resolution process described above or, if no address was provided, sent as described in Section 17.11 (Notices) below. (ii) Fees for Binding Arbitration Payment of all arbitrator fees will be governed by the ADR Services rules, except to the extent that any fees (including attorneys’ fees) and costs paid by either party are reallocated upon order of the arbitrator following a determination that (1) You or Autodesk breached any of the provisions of this Section 17.4, (2) the substance of Your or Autodesk’s Claim or the relief sought by You or Autodesk was frivolous or brought for an improper purpose, or (3) reallocation is otherwise permitted under applicable law. If Autodesk brings a Claim against You, Autodesk will pay all ADR Services fees associated with the Claim. If You bring a Claim against Autodesk, You and Autodesk will split those fees evenly. Further, if the arbitrator determines that You are unable to pay any part of those ADR Services fees, Autodesk will pay them for You. (iii) Mass Filings If You bring a Claim against Autodesk that is similar to the Claims of at least 24 other customers or users, or if You and at least 24 other customers or users with Claims against Autodesk are represented by the same lawyers or by lawyers who are coordinating with each other (in either case, a “Mass Filing”), you and Autodesk agree to the following protocol: ADR Services will randomly assign sequential numbers to each of the Claims included in a Mass Filing, after which the Claims numbered 1-10 will be designated the “Initial Test Cases” and will proceed to arbitration. The filing fees will be paid only for the Initial Test Cases; for all other Claims, the filing fees (together with any arbitrator consideration of the other Claims) will be held in abeyance, and neither 2/6/24, 11:50 AM Terms of Use | General Terms | Autodesk https://www.autodesk.com/company/terms-of-use/en/general-terms 15/24 You nor Autodesk will be required to pay any such filing fees. The arbitrator will render a final award for the Initial Test Cases within 180 days after the initial pre-hearing conference, unless such period is extended by the arbitrator. Thereafter, the results of the Initial Test Cases will be given to a mediator, and such mediator and the parties will have 90 days from the mediator ’s appointment (the “Mediation Period”) to agree on a resolution or substantive methodology for resolving the remaining Claims. If the parties are unable to resolve the remaining Claims during the Mediation Period, either party may choose to opt out of the binding arbitration process and proceed in court with the remaining Claims. Notice of any opt-out must be provided in writing within 60 days after the close of the Mediation Period. Absent notice of an opt-out, the remaining Claims will be arbitrated individually in the order determined by the sequential numbers assigned to the Claims in the Mass Filing. Filing fees for each Claim will be due upon commencement of the arbitration of such Claim. (iv) Determination of Arbitrability, Enforcement of Rights The arbitrator will have the right to determine the arbitrability of any Claim. Notwithstanding the foregoing arbitration provision, each party may enforce its, or its licensors’, patent, copyright, or trademark rights in any court of competent jurisdiction. (c) Waiver of Class or Consolidated Actions All Claims arising out of, or relating to, an Offering or these Terms must be arbitrated or litigated on an individual basis and not on a class basis. Claims of more than one customer or user cannot be arbitrated or litigated jointly or consolidated with those of any other customer or user. (d) Injunctive and Other Equitable Relief Notwithstanding any other provisions of these Terms, if a Claim is subject to resolution in the specified court or courts under Section 17.4(a) (General) above, Autodesk may apply for injunctive relief and other equitable remedies (or their equivalent) in any jurisdiction or forum, including any available court. If a Claim is subject to arbitration, either party may apply to a court of competent jurisdiction for interim measures necessary to preserve the parties’ rights, including pre-arbitration attachments or injunctions, and any such request will not be deemed incompatible with, or a waiver of, the agreement to arbitrate. 17.5 Force Majeure Neither party will be responsible or have any liability for any delay or failure to perform to the extent due to unforeseen circumstances or causes beyond its reasonable control, including acts of God, earthquake, fire, pandemic, flood, sanctions, embargoes, strikes, lockouts or other labor disturbances, civil unrest, unavailability or delay of suppliers or licensors, riots, terrorist or other malicious or criminal acts, war, failure or interruption of the internet or third party internet connections or infrastructure, power failures, acts or orders of civil and government authorities and severe weather (“Force Majeure”). The affected party will give the other party prompt written notice (when possible) of the failure to perform and use its reasonable efforts to limit the resulting delay in its performance. 17.6 Export When You obtain, access or use an Offering, You will comply with the export control and international trade laws and regulations of the United States and of any other country whose laws apply to You or Your Content. You will not access or use any Offering from within a U.S. sanctioned location or if You appear on any U.S. government restricted parties list. You will obtain U.S. government and any other required authorization before You obtain, access or use, or allow any person or entity to obtain, access 2/6/24, 11:50 AM Terms of Use | General Terms | Autodesk https://www.autodesk.com/company/terms-of-use/en/general-terms 16/24 or use, any Offering for a U.S.-restricted end use. Restricted end uses include work on nuclear, chemical or biological weapons or on missile systems capable of delivering them. You may not upload or otherwise provide Autodesk with any content or materials (including Your Content) that constitute classified information or that are subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) or its foreign counterparts. You may not upload or otherwise provide Autodesk with any content or materials that cannot legally be transferred from Your location to the United States or from the United States to Your location. You are solely responsible for compliance with all export control requirements applicable to Your Content and You may not use any Offering to make Your Content or any other content or materials available to any country, entity or other party that cannot legally receive them under U.S. and other applicable law. Autodesk reserves the right to suspend or terminate Your Offerings for failure to comply with requests for additional export control related assurances or if Autodesk determines in its sole discretion that sanctions and/or export control related laws and regulations restrict the provision of products, services and/or other financial benefit. 17.7 Government This Section 17.7 applies if You are a United States federal or other Governmental Entity. The Offerings are “commercial computer software” as defined at 48 C.F.R. § 2.101 and 48 C.F.R. § 252.227-7014(a)(1) and as the term is used in 48 C.F.R. §§ 12.212 and 227.7202, and, where services, are “commercial services” as defined in 48 C.F.R. § 2.101. The Offerings and related Documentation are provided to You and your Authorized Users, for use by You or on Your behalf, subject to these Terms and with only those rights as are granted to all other Autodesk customers and their Authorized Users pursuant to these Terms. These Terms apply to Governmental Entity customers and Authorized Users except to the limited extent You are prohibited by the laws of Your jurisdiction from accepting any provisions of these Terms. If and to the extent any provision of these Terms is so prohibited, such provision will be deemed modified only to the extent reasonably necessary to conform to applicable law but to give maximum effect to the provision as written. 17.8 Verification of Compliance Autodesk reserves the right to verify Your compliance with these Terms and may, at its discretion, do so by providing you with a report regarding Your noncompliant use of Offerings and/or by conducting a remote or on-site audit (any such action, a “Verification”). If a remote or on-site audit is required, Autodesk or its representative will provide You electronic written notification. You must use an Autodesk-approved tool to gather information from all devices accessing Your Offerings and obtain any necessary access and consent from Your Authorized Users. Within 15 calendar days of audit notification, You must submit Your audit results to the notifying party. Audit results must include machine IDs, serial numbers, Autodesk IDs, NT/Windows username, device ID and other information relating to Your Offerings. If, through a Verification, Autodesk determines You are in violation of these Terms, You must immediately purchase new Offerings at least equal to the total of the value of the identified noncompliance and Autodesk’s reasonable costs to complete the Verification. Failure to comply with this Section 17.8 is a material breach of these Terms. Autodesk reserves the right to suspend and/or terminate Your access to Offerings as set forth in Section 16.2 (Autodesk’s Right to Terminate or Suspend a Subscription or Account) above, as well as to seek any other remedies available at law or in equity as set forth in Section 17.4 (Autodesk Party, Governing Law, Dispute Resolution) above. 17.9 Assignment 2/6/24, 11:50 AM Terms of Use | General Terms | Autodesk https://www.autodesk.com/company/terms-of-use/en/general-terms 17/24 You may not assign or otherwise transfer these Terms or Your rights or obligations under these Terms (whether by operation of law or otherwise) without Autodesk’s prior written consent, and Autodesk may terminate these Terms (including Your rights under these Terms) if You are acquired by, or come to be controlled by, any other person or entity (whether by acquisition of shares, merger, or other transaction) without such written consent of Autodesk. Autodesk may assign or otherwise transfer these Terms (without Your consent or notice to You) as part of a reorganization, merger, sale of assets or other transaction that involves all or a portion of the Offerings or related business. 17.10 Severability If and to the extent any provision of these Terms is held unenforceable under applicable law, (a) such provision will be deemed modified to the extent reasonably necessary to conform to applicable law but to give maximum effect to the intent of the parties set forth in these Terms, and (b) such provision will be ineffective only as to the jurisdiction in which it is held unenforceable without affecting enforceability in any other jurisdiction. 17.11 Notices Any notices by You to Autodesk will be sent by postal mail or delivery service to Autodesk, Inc., The Landmark @ One Market, Ste. 400, San Francisco, CA 94105 USA, Attention: Chief Legal Officer. Such notices will be effective when received by Autodesk. Except as otherwise expressly stated in these Terms (including any Additional Agreement or Special Terms), any notices by Autodesk to You will be provided (a) by email to the registered email address associated with Your account, (b) by posting to Your account, (c) by posting within an Offering (for example, through an in-Offering notification function or sign-in notification), (d) by postal mail or delivery service to the address associated with Your account, or (e) in any other manner deemed reasonable by Autodesk that involves specific notification to You. Notices from Autodesk to You will, (i) in the case of notices by email, be effective one day after being sent and (ii) in the case of other notices, five days after being posted or sent. You hereby agree to service of process being effected on You by registered mail sent to the address set forth on Your Customer Information Form (or, if no Customer Information Form has been provided, Your last address known by Autodesk) if so permitted by applicable law. 17.12 Entire Agreement, No Waiver These Terms, including any Additional Agreement and any Special Terms (which are incorporated by reference in these Terms), constitute the entire agreement between You and Autodesk (and merge and supersede any prior or contemporaneous agreements, discussions, communications, representations, warranties, advertising or understandings) with respect to the subject matter hereof. Any access to or use of an Offering is expressly conditioned on the application of these Terms, and any other terms are expressly rejected. If there is any conflict between these General Terms and any Special Terms, the Special Terms will control in relation to their subject matter. If there is any conflict between these General Terms or the Special Terms and the Additional Agreement, the Additional Agreement will control in relation to its subject matter to the extent set forth in the Additional Agreement. Failure to enforce or exercise any provision of these Terms is not a waiver of such provision, unless such waiver is specified in writing and signed by the party against which the waiver is asserted. 17.13 DMCA 2/6/24, 11:50 AM Terms of Use | General Terms | Autodesk https://www.autodesk.com/company/terms-of-use/en/general-terms 18/24 The Digital Millennium Copyright Act of 1998 (the “DMCA”) provides recourse for copyright owners who believe that material appearing on the internet infringes their rights under U.S. copyright law. If You believe in good faith that materials made available by or through Autodesk infringe Your copyright, You (or Your agent) may send Autodesk a notice requesting that Autodesk remove the material or block access to it. If You believe in good faith that someone has wrongly filed a notice of copyright infringement against You, the DMCA permits You to send Autodesk a counter-notice. Notices and counter-notices are required to meet the then-current statutory requirements imposed by the DMCA. See for details. Notices and counter- notices should be sent to: Copyright Agent Autodesk, Inc. The Landmark @ One Market, Ste. 400 San Francisco, CA 94105 USA E-mail: Tel: +1 (415) 507.5000 Fax: + 1 (415) 507.6128 Autodesk suggests that You consult Your legal advisor before filing a notice or counter-notice. 18. Definitions “Additional Agreement” means any agreement signed directly with an Autodesk entity that expressly supplements or amends the Terms (for example, an enterprise business agreement). “Authorized Users” or “Your Authorized Users” means (a) You (if You are an individual) and (b) identified individuals (such as Your individual employees, consultants and contractors and other individuals accessing and using an Offering) for whom You have acquired a subscription to an Offering. If an Offering allows You to designate Authorized Users for such Offering, You will be responsible for providing notice to, and obtaining agreement from, any such Authorized Users regarding the application of these Terms to their access to and use of such Offering prior to their access and use. “Autodesk” means Autodesk, Inc., a Delaware (United States) corporation, together with its subsidiaries and other affiliates. “Autodesk Party” means the particular Autodesk entity identified in Section 17.4 (Autodesk Party, Governing Law, Dispute Resolution) above. “Benefits” means any benefits made available to You or Your Authorized Users by Autodesk. Benefits are typically based on the type or level of Offering for which You subscribe. Benefits may include access to Updates and Upgrades, rights to previous versions, additional Software or Cloud Services, pre-release versions, APIs, global use rights, technical support, training, webinars, forums, events, galleries, newsletters and usage data. Benefits may also include account benefits such as single sign- on and management of Your profile, security settings, linked accounts and preferences. http://www.copyright.gov/ (http://www.copyright.gov/) copyright.agent@autodesk.com (mailto:copyright.agent@autodesk.com) 2/6/24, 11:50 AM Terms of Use | General Terms | Autodesk https://www.autodesk.com/company/terms-of-use/en/general-terms 19/24 “Cloud Service” means a web- or cloud-based service made available by Autodesk, whether or not provided as part of a subscription and whether or not provided for a fee. Cloud Services may include software as a service (SaaS) and remote storage or processing of data. “Confidential Information” means information not generally known to the public that is (a) made available or disclosed by a Disclosing Party to a Receiving Party in writing and (b) designated by the Disclosing Party in writing as Confidential. Nonetheless, Confidential Information does not include (i) any information that (1) becomes generally known to the public without breach of any obligation owed to the Disclosing Party; (2) was known to the Receiving Party before receipt from the Disclosing Party without breach of any obligation (and without a duty of confidentiality) owed to the Disclosing Party; (3) is received from a third party without breach of any obligation (and without a duty of confidentiality) owed to the Disclosing Party; or (4) was independently developed by the Receiving Party; ii) any of Your Content that You send to, or allow to be accessed by, a third party through an Offering; or (iii) any Feedback. Autodesk Confidential Information in any event includes the non-public aspects of (A) any Offerings and any related product plans, technology and other technical information (including APIs and any elements of Your Development using, disclosing or based on use of the APIs) and (B) business negotiations. “Covered Offering” means any Offering for which you have paid Autodesk a subscription fee of more than US$100 in the previous 12 months, excluding any Offering that has been modified by You or at your direction, and excluding any Third-Party Material/Services. “Customer Information Form” means a form completed by or on behalf of You and submitted to Autodesk (or to a reseller, distributor, or other third party), directly or indirectly, in connection with Your account, a subscription or other Offering. “Documentation” means the then-current end-user documentation (including online, printed, or other documentation) and any technical or legal requirements for an Offering. “Governmental Entity” means any nation or government, including the United States federal government, any state, municipality, or other political subdivision thereof, and any entity, body, agency, commission, department, board, bureau, or judicial body pertaining to government, and any employee or official thereof. “Metrics” means data and other information regarding access to and use of any Offerings (including Your access and use). Metrics includes information regarding usage of features, functions, storage and indexes and information regarding usage, volume, type, storage and processing of Your Content (but not Your Content itself). If Metrics includes any personal data, treatment of such personal data will be pursuant to the . “Offerings” means Software, Cloud Services, and Benefits provided by Autodesk, and any subscriptions for such items. “Offering Identification” means one or more designations by Autodesk that set forth (as applicable) the name of an Offering; the Offering Type; and the permitted number, Territory, and length of Your subscription. The Offering Identification may be (a) provided in a written confirmation or other notice issued to You by Autodesk, posted to Your account, transmitted via email, or otherwise made available to You; (b) located in the Offering or on or with any Autodesk packaging; or (c) obtained from Autodesk on request. Offering Identification does not include any designation, confirmation, packaging or other document provided by a reseller, distributor, or other third party. Privacy Statement (https://www.autodesk.com/company/legal-notices- trademarks/privacy-statement) 2/6/24, 11:50 AM Terms of Use | General Terms | Autodesk https://www.autodesk.com/company/terms-of-use/en/general-terms 20/24 “Offering Type” means the license type specified by Autodesk for a subscription (for example, single- user, multi-user, or Flex). Offering Types are set forth on . “Output” means all results, work product, designs, prototypes or other items created or generated by or through any use of any Offering, including any products, parts or services based on or using such results, work product, designs, prototypes, or other items. “Software” means any software or similar materials, including any modules, components, features and functions, made available by Autodesk, whether or not provided as part of a subscription and whether or not provided for a fee. Software includes Updates and Upgrades. “Terms” (including “these Terms”) means these General Terms and the other terms referenced in these General Terms, including the Special Terms and Additional Agreement (if any), together with any other applicable terms. “Territory” means the country or jurisdiction where You acquired Your subscription. Autodesk may indicate the applicable Territory in an Offering Identification. For additional information regarding the definition of Territory see Section 19 (Country/Jurisdiction-Specific Terms) below. “Updates” means security fixes, hot fixes, patches and other updates (including new features, new functions and other modifications released between Upgrades). “Upgrades” means new versions of Offerings, or add-ons to or additional products associated with Offerings, as determined by Autodesk. “Your Content” means (a) any files, designs, models, data sets, images, documents, or similar material submitted or uploaded to any Offering by You (or Your Authorized Users) and (b) Your specific output generated from the use of any Offering based on Your own raw data or information. 19. Country/Jurisdiction-Specific Terms Notwithstanding the other provisions of these Terms, if Your principal place of business is in (or, if You are an individual, You are a resident of) a country or jurisdiction identified below, the terms set forth below for such country or jurisdiction will apply to You: 19.1 United Kingdom; Member States of the European Union and European Economic Area (a) If You acquired Your subscription in a Member State of the European Union or the European Free Trade Association, the applicable “Territory ” for such subscription is all the countries of the European Union and the European Free Trade Association. (b) If Your principal place of business is in (or, if You are an individual, You are resident of) a Member State of the European Union or the European Economic Area and there are any court proceedings in a Member State between You and a third party relating to the use of an Offering, (i) You will inform Autodesk promptly in writing of such court proceedings, and (ii) You will not serve Autodesk with a third party notice regarding such proceedings unless Autodesk requests in writing that You do so. (c) Nothing in these Terms will exclude or restrict (i) Autodesk’s liability for death or personal injury caused by Autodesk’s negligence or willful misconduct, (ii) other damages caused to You by Autodesk’s fraud, willful misconduct or gross negligence, (iii) if applicable, Autodesk’s strict liability Offering Types and Benefits (https://www.autodesk.com/company/terms-of-use/en/offering-types-and-benefits) 2/6/24, 11:50 AM Terms of Use | General Terms | Autodesk https://www.autodesk.com/company/terms-of-use/en/general-terms 21/24 for defects of products under applicable statutory law of a Member State of the European Union or the European Economic Area (e.g., the German Product Liability Act), or (iv) any other liability that cannot be excluded or restricted under applicable law. (d) The following provisions apply if You are contracting with Autodesk Ireland Operations Unlimited Company (“Autodesk Ireland”) as a consumer and are a resident of either the United Kingdom or a country that is a Member State of the European Union or the European Economic Area. These provisions will control in case of a conflict with other provisions of these Terms. (i) Governing Law and Jurisdiction. If you are a consumer resident of the United Kingdom, these Terms are governed by English law. If you are a consumer resident of a country that is a Member State of the European Union or European Economic Area, these Terms are governed by Irish law. Nothing in these Terms will deprive You of the protections granted to You by the law of the country where you reside that cannot be derogated from by contract pursuant to the law of such country. Autodesk Ireland may bring a claim with respect to an Offering against You only in the courts of the country where You reside, and You have the right to bring a claim with respect to an Offering against Autodesk Ireland either in the courts of Ireland or in the courts of the country where You reside. In any case, You and Autodesk Ireland have the right to bring a counterclaim in the court in which, in accordance with this provision, the original claim is pending. (ii) Assignment. If Autodesk assigns or otherwise transfers these Terms, Autodesk will notify you of such transfer in advance and ensure that such transfer does not prejudice Your rights under these Terms. You may terminate these Terms (including any subscriptions hereunder) within thirty (30) days of receipt of such notice of transfer, and, if a resident of the United Kingdom, receive a refund for the prorated portion of any prepaid fees applicable to the remaining Offering Term of Your affected subscriptions. If You wish to assign or otherwise transfer these Terms (and your rights and obligations under these Terms) to another entity, You must deliver written notice to Autodesk requesting consent to such transfer. Autodesk’s consent to such transfer is subject to (1) Your demonstration that the transferee will comply with these Terms, (2) Your agreement to remain responsible for the transferee’s compliance, (3) Your agreement to no longer access or use any Offerings subject to these Terms, and (4) any other conditions deemed reasonable by Autodesk. (iii) Changes to Terms. If Autodesk modifies any of these Terms (whether needed to comply with applicable law or regulation, or for justified commercial, technical, security or operational reasons), Autodesk will provide reasonable notice of such modifications to You in advance of their effective date. (1) If You are a consumer resident of a Member State of the European Union or the European Economic Area, You may reject any such modifications (except those required by law or regulation) by providing notice of rejection via email (within 30 days of the effective date) to the following email address , or in any other manner, specified in the notice of modification. If you do not provide notice of rejection within such time period, You are deemed to have consented to any noticed modifications, unless Your explicit consent is required under the laws applying to You. (2) If You are a consumer resident of the United Kingdom and do not agree with such modifications, You may terminate these Terms before the noticed effective date and receive a refund for the prorated portion of any prepaid fees applicable to the remaining Offering Term of Your affected subscriptions. Terms.Modification.Rejection@autodesk.com (mailto:Terms.Modification.Rejection@autodesk.com) 2/6/24, 11:50 AM Terms of Use | General Terms | Autodesk https://www.autodesk.com/company/terms-of-use/en/general-terms 22/24 (iv) Changes to Offerings. You acknowledge that Autodesk may change (including suspend or withdraw) Offerings to which You have subscribed from time to time, including when needed to comply with applicable law or regulation, for justified commercial, technical, security, or operational reasons, or to make any improvements to Your access to and use of the Offerings. For existing subscriptions, any such changes will be made without additional cost to You, and Autodesk will provide reasonable advanced notice of any such changes, in a clear and comprehensible manner, where required under applicable law. If You do not agree with such changes, You may terminate your subscription to the changed Offering within 30 days of the later of (1) Your receipt of the notice of Offering change or (2) the effective date of the change, and You will receive a pro-rata refund for the unused Offering Term. (v) Liability of Autodesk. Notwithstanding Section 14.3 (Limitations on Liability) above and Section 17.12 (Entire Agreement, No Waiver) above, such sections will not exclude Autodesk’s liability to You for: (1) misrepresentations in voluntary statements about an Offering made by Autodesk to You that You rely on in purchasing the Offering; (2) failure to provide pre-contract information regarding an Offering that Autodesk is required by the law of the country where You reside to provide to You before purchasing the Offering; (3) if applicable, Autodesk’s breach of implied terms that cannot be excluded or restricted under English law (including implied terms relating to satisfactory quality of, fitness for a particular purpose of, conformance to pre-contractual information relating to, or Autodesk’s right to supply, digital content); or (4) if applicable, consequential or indirect losses that cannot be excluded or restricted under English law. (vi) Statutory Warranties. You may have statutory warranty rights under the law applying to You that cannot be excluded or restricted by agreement between You and Autodesk in advance. Such warranty rights will remain unaffected by these Terms. Autodesk offers or makes no further implied or statutory warranties or conditions regarding the Offerings, and explicitly disclaims all implied warranties and conditions to the maximum extent permitted by applicable law. (vii) Consumer Right of Withdrawal. Under applicable law, consumer residents of a Member State of the European Union or the European Economic Area have a statutory right to withdraw from their subscription to an Offering within 14 days of its purchase. How this right may apply is explained in . Please note that Your more favorable rights of return for refund that Autodesk voluntarily grants You under Section 3 (Return for Refund) above are not affected by this statutory right of withdrawal. (e) Contact Us. You may contact Autodesk Ireland by calling +353 1 571 8800, emailing , or writing to Autodesk Ireland Operations Unlimited Company, 1 Windmill Lane, 2nd Floor, Dublin, Ireland D02 F206. (f) In addition, notwithstanding any limitations on Territory in these Terms, these Terms do not limit cross-border access or use (such as access or use in one Member State of the European Union of Offerings purchased in another Member State of the European Union) that is expressly authorized by applicable law. 19.2 Australia These Terms form a contract between You and the Autodesk Party set out in Section 17.4 (Autodesk Party, Governing Law, Dispute Resolution) above which governs Your access to, and use of, Offerings. However, You may have Additional Agreements with local Autodesk affiliates, subsidiaries, or their Consumer Right of Withdrawal Information (https://damassets.autodesk.net/content/dam/autodesk/www/company/terms-of-use/EU-and-EEA- Consumer-Right.pdf) Autodesk.Ireland.Inquiries@autodesk.com (mailto:Autodesk.Ireland.Inquiries@autodesk.com) 2/6/24, 11:50 AM Terms of Use | General Terms | Autodesk https://www.autodesk.com/company/terms-of-use/en/general-terms 23/24 resellers, distributors, or similar third parties for the purchase of those Offering(s). The following provisions apply to such purchases by Australian consumers: (a) The warranty provided in Section 14.1 (Limited Warranty) above is provided by Autodesk Australia Pty Ltd, or the Autodesk subsidiary or affiliate indicated on your quote, invoice or Offering Identification. Please use the address and contact details set out on your quote, invoice or other Offering Identification, or contact Autodesk Australia Pty Ltd at Level 17, 1 Denison Street, North Sydney, NSW 2060, Australia (phone: (02) 9844 8000; email: ), to make a claim under the warranty provided in Section 14 (Limited Warranty) above. Please have details of Your Offering, serial number, place of purchase, details of the defect and Your return contact details prior to contacting us. The warranty provided in Section 14 (Limited Warranty) above is in addition to other rights and remedies you have at law. (b) Our goods and services come with guarantees that cannot be excluded under the Australian Consumer Law. For major failures with the service, you are entitled: (i) to cancel your service contract with us; and (ii) to a refund for the unused portion, or to compensation for its reduced value. (c) You are also entitled to choose a refund or replacement for major failures with goods. If a failure with the goods or a service does not amount to a major failure, you are entitled to have the failure rectified in a reasonable time. If this is not done, you are entitled to a refund for the goods and to cancel the contract for the service and obtain a refund of any unused portion. You are also entitled to be compensated for any other reasonably foreseeable loss or damage from a failure in the goods or service. (d) Autodesk will not be responsible for user error and may refer any such issues to a supporting reseller, distributor or similar third party, if any. You may be required to return the Offering to the address we provide to You at the time, at Your own cost. (e) DESPITE ANYTHING ELSE IN THESE TERMS, IF ANY OFFERING IS SUBJECT TO THE MANDATORY WARRANTIES OR GUARANTEES OF THE COMPETITION AND CONSUMER ACT (CTH) OR OTHER APPLICABLE LAW IN AUSTRALIA (THE “LAW”), AND SUCH LAW PERMITS AUTODESK TO LIMIT ITS LIABILITY FOR BREACH OF THESE WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS, THEN AUTODESK’S LIABILITY FOR BREACH OF ANY SUCH WARRANTY OR GUARANTEE WILL BE LIMITED, AT AUTODESK’S OPTION, TO THE REPAIR, REPLACEMENT OR REPERFORMANCE (OR THE COST OF DOING SO) OF THE RELEVANT OFFERING. 19.3 Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau If You acquired Your subscription in mainland China, the “Territory ” for such subscription is Mainland China. Likewise, if You acquired Your subscription in Hong Kong, the “Territory ” for such subscription is Hong Kong; and if You acquired Your subscription in Macau, the “Territory ” for such subscription is Macau. 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All rights reserved (/company/terms-of- use/en/general-terms) Deutsch (/company/terms-of- use/de/general-terms) Español (/company/terms-of- use/es/general-terms) Français (/company/terms-of- use/fr/general-terms) Italiano (/company/terms-of- use/it/general-terms) Portugues (/company/terms-of- use/br/general-terms) Čeština (/company/terms-of- use/cs/general-terms) Polski (/company/terms-of- use/pl/general-terms) 日本語 (/company/terms-of- use/jp/general-terms) 한국어 (/company/terms-of- use/kr/general-terms) 简体中文 (/company/terms-of- use/cn/general-terms) 繁體中文 (/company/terms-of- use/cn2/general-terms) 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2772 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/26/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute, on behalf of the County, a Participating Addendum with Exemplis, LLC., in an amount not to exceed $800,000, for the distribution of various furniture, design and installation services for use by all County Departments, during the period of September 10, 2024 through April 30, 2025, under the terms of the Master Contract awarded by the Region 4 Education Service Center. (100% User Departments) Attachments:, , , Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Warren Lai, Public Works Director/Chief Engineer Report Title:Participating Addendum with Exemplis, LLC., through the Distributor, Be. Workplace Design ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent,or designee,to execute,on behalf of the County,a Participating Addendum with Exemplis,LLC.,in an amount not to exceed $800,000,for the distribution of various furniture,design and installation services for use by all County Departments,during the period of September 10,2024 through April 30,2025,under the terms of the Master Contract awarded by the Region 4 Education Service Center, and distributed through Be. Workplace Design. FISCAL IMPACT: Product and service costs paid by County Departments. (100% User Departments) BACKGROUND: Contra Costa Purchasing Services is requesting approval of a Participating Addendum for various furniture purchases,design and installation services through one of Exemplis,LLC.,Distributors:Be.Workplace Design. Orders will be unique to each County Department.Products are guaranteed through the master contract awarded by the Region 4 Education Service Center,OMNIA Cooperative Program.Approval of the addendum between Contra Costa County and Exemplis,LLC.,allows the County to obtain guaranteed pricing available through the OMNIA Partners contract.The purchase will support all County Departments with a variety of Freestanding Furniture,Seating/Chairs,Soft Seating,Filing Systems,Technology Support Systems,Library, Cafeteria,Educational Office Furniture,Career/Technical Education Furniture,and Related Products,Support Services,which offer discounts over 58%off published price lists.This will allow the County the option to choose furniture from more than one source,promote competition among the providers,and is ultimately CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2772,Version:1 designed to offer County Departments a variety of product choices and providers. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Without approval of an alternate furniture source,the County would have limited options,no competition among the providers, and ultimately pay more by not taking advantage of cooperative purchasing discounts. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ October 28, 2022 Mr. Patrick Sommerfield dcairo@exemplis.com Vice President, Finance Exemplis LLC 6415 Katella Avenue Cypress, CA Re: Renewal Award of Contract #R191803 Dear Mr. Sommerfield: Per official action taken by the Board of Directors of Region 4 Education Service Center on October 25, 2022, Region 4 ESC is pleased to announce that Exemplis LLC has been awarded an annual contract renewal for the following, based on the sealed proposal submitted to Region 4 on December 11, 2019, and subsequent performance thereafter: Contract Furniture, Installation and Related Services The contract will expire on April 30, 2024, completing the fourth year of a five-year term contract. The contract is available through OMNIA Partners, Public Sector. Your designated OMNIA Partners, Public Sector contact is Christine Dorantes, at (615) 431-8182 or christine.dorantes@omniapartners.com. The partnership between Exemplis LLC, Region 4 and OMNIA Partners, Public Sector can be of great help to participating agencies. Please provide copies of this letter to your sales representative(s) to assist in their daily course of business. Sincerely, Robert Zingelmann Chief Financial Officer, Finance and Operations Services DocuSign Envelope ID: 4B5736F7-3D48-4CB8-8200-DCA3E77E5FE0 October 26, 2023 Mr. Patrick Sommerfield dcairo@exemplis.com Vice President, Finance Exemplis LLC 6415 Katella Avenue Cypress, CA Re: Renewal Award of Contract #R191803 Dear Mr. Sommerfield: Per official action taken by the Board of Directors of Region 4 Education Service Center on October 24, 2023, Region 4 ESC is pleased to announce that Exemplis LLC has been awarded an annual contract renewal for the following, based on the sealed proposal submitted to Region 4 on December 11, 2019, and subsequent performance thereafter: Contract Furniture, Installation and Related Services The contract will expire on April 30, 2025, completing the fifth year of a five-year term contract. The contract is available through OMNIA Partners, Public Sector. Your designated OMNIA Partners, Public Sector contact is Christine Dorantes, at (615) 431-8182 or christine.dorantes@omniapartners.com. The partnership between Exemplis LLC, Region 4 and OMNIA Partners, Public Sector can be of great help to participating agencies. Please provide copies of this letter to your sales representative(s) to assist in their daily course of business. Sincerely, Robert Zingelmann Chief Financial Officer, Finance and Operations Services DocuSign Envelope ID: 81108D99-4067-4AAA-9008-50A989A9A393 Region 4 Education Service Center (ESC) Contract # R191803 for Furniture, Installation and Related Services with Exemplis LLC Effective: May 1, 2020 The following documents comprise the executed contract between the Region 4 Education Service Center and Exemplis LLC effective May 1, 2020: I. Vendor Contract and Signature Form II. Supplier’s Response to the RFP, incorporated by reference CONTRACT 1 APPENDIX A CONTRACT This Contract (“Contract”) is made as of __________, 2020 by and between (“Contractor”) and Region 4 Education Service Center (“Region 4 ESC”) for the purchase of Furniture, Installation, and Related Services (“the products and services”). RECITALS WHEREAS, Region 4 ESC issued Request for Proposals Number RFP #19-18 for Furniture, Installation, and Related Services (“RFP”), to which Contractor provided a response (“Proposal”); and WHEREAS, Region 4 ESC selected Contractor’s Proposal and wishes to engage Contractor in providing the services/materials described in the RFP and Proposal; WHEREAS, both parties agree and understand the following pages will constitute the Contract between the Contractor and Region 4 ESC, having its principal place of business at 7145 West Tidwell Road, Houston, TX 77092. WHEREAS, Contractor included, in writing, any required exceptions or deviations from these terms, conditions, and specifications; and it is further understood that, if agreed to by Region 4 ESC, said exceptions or deviations are incorporated into the Contract. WHEREAS, this Contract consists of the provisions set forth below, including provisions of all attachments referenced herein. In the event of a conflict between the provisions set forth below and those contained in any attachment, the provisions set forth below shall control. WHEREAS, the Contract will provide that any state and local governmental entities, public and private primary, secondary and higher education entities, non-profit entities, and agencies for the public benefit (“Public Agencies”) may purchase products and services at prices indicated in the Contract upon the Public Agency’s registration with OMNIA Partners. 1)Term of agreement. The term of the Contract is for a period of three (3) years unless terminated, canceled or extended as otherwise provided herein. Region 4 ESC shall have the right to renew the Contract for two (2) additional one-year periods or portions thereof. Region 4 ESC shall review the Contract prior to the renewal date and notify the Contractor of Region 4 ESC’s intent renew the Contract. Contractor may elect not to renew by providing three hundred sixty-five days’ (365) notice to Region 4 ESC. Notwithstanding the expiration of the initial term or any subsequent term or all renewal options, Region 4 ESC and Contractor may mutually agree to extend the term of this Agreement. Contractor acknowledges and understands Region 4 ESC is under no obligation whatsoever to extend the term of this Agreement. 2) Scope: Contractor shall perform all duties, responsibilities and obligations, set forth in this agreement, and described in the RFP, incorporated herein by reference as though fully set forth herein. April 28 Exemplis LLC CONTRACT 2 3) Form of Contract. The form of Contract shall be the RFP, the Offeror’s proposal and Best and Final Offer(s). 4)Order of Precedence. In the event of a conflict in the provisions of the Contract as accepted by Region 4 ESC, the following order of precedence shall prevail: i.This Contract ii.Offeror’s Best and Final Offer iii.Offeror’s proposal iv.RFP and any addenda 5)Commencement of Work. The Contractor is cautioned not to commence any billable work or provide any material or service under this Contract until Contractor receives a purchase order for such work or is otherwise directed to do so in writing by Region 4 ESC. 6)Entire Agreement (Parol evidence). The Contract, as specified above, represents the final written expression of agreement. All agreements are contained herein and no other agreements or representations that materially alter it are acceptable. 7)Assignment of Contract. No assignment of Contract may be made without the prior written approval of Region 4 ESC. Contractor is required to notify Region 4 ESC when any material change in operations is made (i.e. bankruptcy, change of ownership, merger, etc.). 8) Novation. If Contractor sells or transfers all assets or the entire portion of the assets used to perform this Contract, a successor in interest must guarantee to perform all obligations under this Contract. Region 4 ESC reserves the right to accept or reject any new party. A change of name agreement will not change the contractual obligations of Contractor. 9)Contract Alterations. No alterations to the terms of this Contract shall be valid or binding unless authorized and signed by Region 4 ESC. 10)Adding Authorized Distributors/Dealers. Contractor is prohibited from authorizing additional distributors or dealers, other than those identified at the time of submitting their proposal, to sell under the Contract without notification and prior written approval from Region 4 ESC. Contractor must notify Region 4 ESC each time it wishes to add an authorized distributor or dealer. Purchase orders and payment can only be made to the Contractor unless otherwise approved by Region 4 ESC. Pricing provided to members by added distributors or dealers must also be less than or equal to the Contractor’s pricing. 11)TERMINATION OF CONTRACT a)Cancellation for Non-Performance or Contractor Deficiency. Region 4 ESC may terminate the Contract if purchase volume is determined to be low volume in any 12-month period. Region 4 ESC reserves the right to cancel the whole or any part of this Contract due to failure by Contractor to carry out any obligation, term or condition of the contract. Region 4 ESC may issue a written deficiency notice to Contractor for acting or failing to act in any of the following: i.Providing material that does not meet the specifications of the Contract; ii.Providing work or material was not awarded under the Contract; iii.Failing to adequately perform the services set forth in the scope of work and specifications; CONTRACT 3 iv.Failing to complete required work or furnish required materials within a reasonable amount of time; v.Failing to make progress in performance of the Contract or giving Region 4 ESC reason to believe Contractor will not or cannot perform the requirements of the Contract; or vi.Performing work or providing services under the Contract prior to receiving an authorized purchase order. Upon receipt of a written deficiency notice, Contractor shall have ten (10) days to provide a satisfactory response to Region 4 ESC. Failure to adequately address all issues of concern may result in Contract cancellation. Upon cancellation under this paragraph, all goods, materials, work, documents, data and reports prepared by Contractor under the Contract shall immediately become the property of Region 4 ESC. b)Termination for Cause. If, for any reason, Contractor fails to fulfill its obligation in a timely manner, or Contractor violates any of the covenants, agreements, or stipulations of this Contract Region 4 ESC reserves the right to terminate the Contract immediately and pursue all other applicable remedies afforded by law. Such termination shall be effective by delivery of notice, to the Contractor, specifying the effective date of termination. In such event, all documents, data, studies, surveys, drawings, maps, models and reports prepared by Contractor will become the property of the Region 4 ESC. If such event does occur, Contractor will be entitled to receive just and equitable compensation for the satisfactory work completed on such documents. c)Delivery/Service Failures. Failure to deliver goods or services within the time specified, or within a reasonable time period as interpreted by the purchasing agent or failure to make replacements or corrections of rejected articles/services when so requested shall constitute grounds for the Contract to be terminated. In the event Region 4 ESC must purchase in an open market, Contractor agrees to reimburse Region 4 ESC, within a reasonable time period, for all expenses incurred. i)Additional Delivery/Installation Charges: Contractor may enter into additional negotiations with a purchasing agency for additional delivery or installation charges based on onerous conditions. Additional delivery and/or installation charges may only be charged if mutually agreed upon by the purchasing agency and Contractor and can only be charged on a per individual project basis. d)Force Majeure. If by reason of Force Majeure, either party hereto shall be rendered unable wholly or in part to carry out its obligations under this Agreement then such party shall give notice and full particulars of Force Majeure in writing to the other party within a reasonable time after occurrence of the event or cause relied upon, and the obligation of the party giving such notice, so far as it is affected by such Force Majeure, shall be suspended during the continuance of the inability then claimed, except as hereinafter provided, but for no longer period, and such party shall endeavor to remove or overcome such inability with all reasonable dispatch. The term Force Majeure as employed herein, shall mean acts of God, strikes, lockouts, or other industrial disturbances, act of public enemy, orders of any kind of government of the United States or the State of Texas or any civil or military authority; insurrections; riots; epidemics; landslides; lighting; earthquake; fires; hurricanes; storms; floods; washouts; droughts; arrests; restraint of government and people; civil disturbances; explosions, breakage or accidents to machinery, pipelines or canals, or other causes not reasonably within the control of the party claiming such inability. It is understood and agreed that the settlement of strikes and lockouts shall be entirely within the discretion of the party having the difficulty, and that the above requirement that any Force Majeure shall be remedied with all reasonable dispatch shall not require the settlement of strikes and lockouts by acceding to the demands of the opposing party or parties when such settlement is unfavorable in the judgment of the party having the difficulty. CONTRACT 4 e)Standard Cancellation. Region 4 ESC may cancel this Contract in whole or in part by providing written notice. The cancellation will take effect 30 business days after the other party receives the notice of cancellation. After the 30th business day all work will cease following completion of final purchase order. 12)Licenses. Contractor shall maintain in current status all federal, state and local licenses, bonds and permits required for the operation of the business conducted by Contractor. Contractor shall remain fully informed of and in compliance with all ordinances and regulations pertaining to the lawful provision of services under the Contract. Region 4 ESC reserves the right to stop work and/or cancel the Contract if Contractor’s license(s) expire, lapse, are suspended or terminated. 13)Survival Clause. All applicable software license agreements, warranties or service agreements that are entered into between Contractor and Region 4 ESC under the terms and conditions of the Contract shall survive the expiration or termination of the Contract. All Purchase Orders issued and accepted by Contractor shall survive expiration or termination of the Contract. 14)Delivery. Conforming product shall be shipped within 7 days of receipt of Purchase Order. If delivery is not or cannot be made within this time period, the Contractor must receive authorization for the delayed delivery. The order may be canceled if the estimated shipping time is not acceptable. All deliveries shall be freight prepaid, F.O.B. Destination and shall be included in all pricing offered unless otherwise clearly stated in writing. 15)Inspection & Acceptance. If defective or incorrect material is delivered, Region 4 ESC may make the determination to return the material to the Contractor at no cost to Region 4 ESC. The Contractor agrees to pay all shipping costs for the return shipment. Contractor shall be responsible for arranging the return of the defective or incorrect material. 16)Payments. Payment shall be made after satisfactory performance, in accordance with all provisions thereof, and upon receipt of a properly completed invoice. 17)Price Adjustments. Should it become necessary or proper during the term of this Contract to make any change in design or any alterations that will increase price, Region 4 ESC must be notified immediately. Price increases must be approved by Region 4 ESC and no payment for additional materials or services, beyond the amount stipulated in the Contract shall be paid without prior approval. All price increases must be supported by manufacturer documentation, or a formal cost justification letter. Contractor must honor previous prices for thirty (30) days after approval and written notification from Region 4 ESC. It is the Contractor’s responsibility to keep all pricing up to date and on file with Region 4 ESC. All price changes must be provided to Region 4 ESC, using the same format as was provided and accepted in the Contractor’s proposal. Price reductions may be offered at any time during Contract. Special, time-limited reductions are permissible under the following conditions: 1) reduction is available to all users equally; 2) reduction is for a specific period, normally not less than thirty (30) days; and 3) original price is not exceeded after the time-limit. Contractor shall offer Region 4 ESC any published price reduction during the Contract term. 18)Audit Rights. Contractor shall, at its sole expense, maintain appropriate due diligence of all purchases made by Region 4 ESC and any entity that utilizes this Contract. Region 4 ESC reserves the right to audit the accounting for a period of three (3) years from the time such CONTRACT 5 purchases are made. This audit right shall survive termination of this Agreement for a period of one (1) year from the effective date of termination. Region 4 ESC shall have the authority to conduct random audits of Contractor’s pricing at Region 4 ESC's sole cost and expense. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event that Region 4 ESC is made aware of any pricing being offered that is materially inconsistent with the pricing under this agreement, Region 4 ESC shall have the ability to conduct an extensive audit of Contractor’s pricing at Contractor’s sole cost and expense. Region 4 ESC may conduct the audit internally or may engage a third- party auditing firm. In the event of an audit, the requested materials shall be provided in the format and at the location designated by Region 4 ESC. 19)Discontinued Products. If a product or model is discontinued by the manufacturer, Contractor may substitute a new product or model if the replacement product meets or exceeds the specifications and performance of the discontinued model and if the discount is the same or greater than the discontinued model. 20)New Products/Services. New products and/or services that meet the scope of work may be added to the Contract. Pricing shall be equivalent to the percentage discount for other products. Contractor may replace or add product lines if the line is replacing or supplementing products, is equal or superior to the original products, is discounted similarly or greater than the original discount, and if the products meet the requirements of the Contract. No products and/or services may be added to avoid competitive procurement requirements. Region 4 ESC may require additions to be submitted with documentation from Members demonstrating an interest in, or a potential requirement for, the new product or service. Region 4 ESC may reject any additions without cause. 21)Options. Optional equipment for products under Contract may be added to the Contract at the time they become available under the following conditions: 1) the option is priced at a discount similar to other options; 2) the option is an enhancement to the unit that improves performance or reliability. 22)Warranty Conditions. All supplies, equipment and services shall include manufacturer's minimum standard warranty and one (1) year labor warranty unless otherwise agreed to in writing. 23)Site Cleanup. Contractor shall clean up and remove all debris and rubbish resulting from their work as required or directed. Upon completion of the work, the premises shall be left in good repair and an orderly, neat, clean, safe and unobstructed condition. 24)Site Preparation. Contractor shall not begin a project for which the site has not been prepared, unless Contractor does the preparation work at no cost, or until Region 4 ESC includes the cost of site preparation in a purchase order. Site preparation includes, but is not limited to: moving furniture, installing wiring for networks or power, and similar pre-installation requirements. 25)Registered Sex Offender Restrictions. For work to be performed at schools, Contractor agrees no employee or employee of a subcontractor who has been adjudicated to be a registered sex offender will perform work at any time when students are or are reasonably expected to be present. Contractor agrees a violation of this condition shall be considered a material breach and may result in the cancellation of the purchase order at Region 4 ESC’s discretion. Contractor must identify any additional costs associated with compliance of this CONTRACT 6 term. If no costs are specified, compliance with this term will be provided at no additional charge. 26)Safety measures. Contractor shall take all reasonable precautions for the safety of employees on the worksite and shall erect and properly maintain all necessary safeguards for protection of workers and the public. Contractor shall post warning signs against all hazards created by its operation and work in progress. Proper precautions shall be taken pursuant to state law and standard practices to protect workers, general public and existing structures from injury or damage. 27)Smoking. Persons working under the Contract shall adhere to local smoking policies. Smoking will only be permitted in posted areas or off premises. 28)Stored materials. Upon prior written agreement between the Contractor and Region 4 ESC, payment may be made for materials not incorporated in the work but delivered and suitably stored at the site or some other location, for installation at a later date. An inventory of the stored materials must be provided to Region 4 ESC prior to payment. Such materials must be stored and protected in a secure location and be insured for their full value by the Contractor against loss and damage. Contractor agrees to provide proof of coverage and additionally insured upon request. Additionally, if stored offsite, the materials must also be clearly identified as property of Region 4 ESC and be separated from other materials. Region 4 ESC must be allowed reasonable opportunity to inspect and take inventory of stored materials, on or offsite, as necessary. Until final acceptance by Region 4 ESC, it shall be the Contractor's responsibility to protect all materials and equipment. Contractor warrants and guarantees that title for all work, materials and equipment shall pass to Region 4 ESC upon final acceptance. 29)Funding Out Clause. A Contract for the acquisition, including lease, of real or personal property is a commitment of Region 4 ESC’s current revenue only. Region 4 ESC retains the right to terminate the Contract at the expiration of each budget period during the term of the Contract and is conditioned on a best effort attempt by Region 4 ESC to obtain appropriate funds for payment of the contract. 30)Indemnity. Contractor shall protect, indemnify, and hold harmless both Region 4 ESC and its administrators, employees and agents against all claims, damages, losses and expenses arising out of or resulting from the actions of the Contractor, Contractor employees or subcontractors in the preparation of the solicitation and the later execution of the Contract. Any litigation involving either Region 4 ESC, its administrators and employees and agents will be in Harris County, Texas. 31)Marketing. Contractor agrees to allow Region 4 ESC to use their name and logo within website, marketing materials and advertisement. Any use of Region 4 ESC name and logo or any form of publicity, inclusive of press releases, regarding this Contract by Contractor must have prior approval from Region 4 ESC. 32)Certificates of Insurance. Certificates of insurance shall be delivered to the Region 4 ESC prior to commencement of work. The Contractor shall give Region 4 ESC a minimum of ten (10) days’ notice prior to any modifications or cancellation of policies. The Contractor shall require all subcontractors performing any work to maintain coverage as specified. 33)Legal Obligations. It is Contractor’s responsibility to be aware of and comply with all local, state, and federal laws governing the sale of products/services and shall comply with all laws CONTRACT 7 while fulfilling the Contract. Applicable laws and regulation must be followed even if not specifically identified herein. 34)Tariff Surcharges: Contractor has the option to charge a surcharge, as an additional line item, if approved by the purchasing agency. All surcharges must be based on a percentage of total order and must be approved by Region 4 prior to use. Acceptable Version January 24, 2020 ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENT THIS ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENT (this “Agreement”) is made this ___ day of March 2020, between National Intergovernmental Purchasing Alliance Company, a Delaware corporation d/b/a OMNIA Partners, Public Sector (“OMNIA Partners”), and Exemplis LLC. (“Supplier”). RECITALS WHEREAS, the Region 4 ESC (the “Principal Procurement Agency”) has entered into a Master Agreement effective May 1st 2020, Agreement No_R191804, by and between the Principal Procurement Agency and Supplier, (as may be amended from time to time in accordance with the terms thereof, the “Master Agreement”), as attached hereto as Exhibit A and incorporated herein by reference as though fully set forth herein, for the purchase of Furniture, Installation, and Related Services (the “Product”); WHEREAS, said Master Agreement provides that any or all public agencies, including state and local governmental entities, public and private primary, secondary and higher education entities, non-profit entities, and agencies for the public benefit (collectively, “Public Agencies”), that register (either via registration on the OMNIA Partners website or execution of a Master Intergovernmental Cooperative Purchasing Agreement, attached hereto as Exhibit B) (each, hereinafter referred to as a “Participating Public Agency”) may purchase Product at prices stated in the Master Agreement; WHEREAS, Participating Public Agencies may access the Master Agreement which is offered through OMNIA Partners to Public Agencies; WHEREAS, OMNIA Partners serves as the contract administrator of the Master Agreement on behalf of Principal Procurement Agency; WHEREAS, Principal Procurement Agency desires OMNIA Partners to proceed with administration of the Master Agreement; and WHEREAS, OMNIA Partners and Supplier desire to enter into this Agreement to make available the Master Agreement to Participating Public Agencies and to set forth certain terms and conditions governing the relationship between OMNIA Partners and Supplier. NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the payments to be made hereunder and the mutual covenants contained in this Agreement, OMNIA Partners and Supplier hereby agree as follows: DocuSign Envelope ID: 04FE5423-8AD6-4BEC-B8A9-37B243CBA1A7 1st --------- CONFIDENTIAL May Version January 24, 2020 DEFINITIONS 1. Capitalized terms used in this Agreement and not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings given to them in the Master Agreement. TERMS AND CONDITIONS 2. The Master Agreement and the terms and conditions contained therein shall apply to this Agreement except as expressly changed or modified by this Agreement. Supplier acknowledges and agrees that the covenants and agreements of Supplier set forth in the solicitation and Supplier’s response thereto resulting in the Master Agreement are incorporated herein and are an integral part hereof. 3. OMNIA Partners shall be afforded all of the rights, privileges and indemnifications afforded to Principal Procurement Agency by or from Supplier under the Master Agreement, and such rights, privileges and indemnifications shall accrue and apply with equal effect to OMNIA Partners, its agents, employees, directors, and representatives under this Agreement including, but not limited to, Supplier’s obligation to obtain appropriate insurance. 4. OMNIA Partners shall perform all of its duties, responsibilities and obligations as contract administrator of the Master Agreement on behalf of Principal Procurement Agency as set forth herein, and Supplier hereby acknowledges and agrees that all duties, responsibilities and obligations will be undertaken by OMNIA Partners solely in its capacity as the contract administrator under the Master Agreement. 5. With respect to any purchases by Principal Procurement Agency or any Participating Public Agency pursuant to the Master Agreement, OMNIA Partners shall not be: (i) construed as a dealer, re-marketer, representative, partner or agent of any type of the Supplier, Principal Procurement Agency or any Participating Public Agency; (ii) obligated, liable or responsible for any order for Product made by Principal Procurement Agency or any Participating Public Agency or any employee thereof under the Master Agreement or for any payment required to be made with respect to such order for Product; and (iii) obligated, liable or responsible for any failure by Principal Procurement Agency or any Participating Public Agency to comply with procedures or requirements of applicable law or the Master Agreement or to obtain the due authorization and approval necessary to purchase under the Master Agreement. OMNIA Partners makes no representation or guaranty with respect to any minimum purchases by Principal Procurement Agency or any Participating Public Agency or any employee thereof under this Agreement or the Master Agreement. 6. OMNIA Partners shall not be responsible for Supplier’s performance under the Master Agreement, and Supplier shall hold OMNIA Partners harmless from any liability that may arise from the acts or omissions of Supplier in connection with the Master Agreement. 7. WITHOUT LIMITING THE GENERALITY OF THE FOREGOING, OMNIA PARTNERS EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ALL EXPRESS OR IMPLIED REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES REGARDING OMNIA PARTNERS’ PERFORMANCE AS A CONTRACT ADMINISTRATOR OF THE MASTER AGREEMENT. OMNIA PARTNERS SHALL NOT BE LIABLE IN ANY WAY FOR ANY SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, EXEMPLARY, PUNITIVE, OR RELIANCE DAMAGES, EVEN IF OMNIA PARTNERS IS ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. DocuSign Envelope ID: 04FE5423-8AD6-4BEC-B8A9-37B243CBA1A7 CONFIDENTIAL Version January 24, 2020 TERM OF AGREEMENT; TERMINATION 8. This Agreement shall be in effect so long as the Master Agreement remains in effect, provided, however, that the provisions of Sections 3 – 8 and 11 – 22, hereof and the indemnifications afforded by the Supplier to OMNIA Partners in the Master Agreement, to the extent such provisions survive any expiration or termination of the Master Agreement, shall survive the expiration or termination of this Agreement. NATIONAL PROMOTION 9. OMNIA Partners and Supplier shall publicize and promote the availability of the Master Agreement’s products and services to Public Agencies and such agencies’ employees. Supplier shall require each Public Agency to register its participation in the OMNIA Partners program by either registering on the OMNIA Partners website (www.omniapartners.com/publicsector), or executing a Master Intergovernmental Cooperative Purchasing Agreement prior to processing the Participating Public Agency’s first sales order. Upon request, Supplier shall make available to interested Public Agencies a copy of the Master Agreement and such price lists or quotes as may be necessary for such Public Agencies to evaluate potential purchases. 10. Supplier shall provide such marketing and administrative support as set forth in the solicitation resulting in the Master Agreement, including assisting in development of marketing materials as reasonably requested by Principal Procurement Agency and OMNIA Partners. Supplier shall be responsible for obtaining permission or license of use and payment of any license fees for all content and images Supplier provides to OMNIA Partners or posts on the OMNIA Partners website. Supplier shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless OMNIA Partners for use of all such content and images including copyright infringement claims. Supplier and OMNIA Partners each hereby grant to the other party a limited, revocable, non-transferable, non-sublicensable right to use such party’s logo (each, the “Logo”) solely for use in marketing the Master Agreement. Each party shall provide the other party with the standard terms of use of such party’s Logo, and such party shall comply with such terms in all material respects. Both parties shall obtain approval from the other party prior to use of such party’s Logo. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the parties understand and agree that except as provided herein neither party shall have any right, title or interest in the other party’s Logo. Upon termination of this Agreement, each party shall immediately cease use of the other party’s Logo. ADMINISTRATIVE FEE, REPORTING & PAYMENT 11. An “Administrative Fee” shall be defined and due to OMNIA Partners from Supplier in the amount of three percent (3%) (“Administrative Fee Percentage”) multiplied by the total purchase amount paid to Supplier, less refunds, credits on returns, rebates and discounts, for the sale of products and/or services to Principal Procurement Agency and Participating Public Agencies pursuant to the Master Agreement (as amended from time to time and including any renewal thereof) (“Contract Sales”). From time to time the parties may mutually agree in writing to a lower Administrative Fee Percentage for a specifically identified Participating Public Agency’s Contract Sales. 12. Supplier shall provide OMNIA Partners with an electronic accounting report monthly, in the format prescribed by OMNIA Partners, summarizing all Contract Sales for each calendar month. The Contract Sales reporting format is provided as Exhibit C (“Contract Sales Report”), attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference. Contract Sales Reports for each calendar month shall be provided by Supplier to OMNIA Partners by the 10th day of the following month. Failure to DocuSign Envelope ID: 04FE5423-8AD6-4BEC-B8A9-37B243CBA1A7 CONFIDENTIAL Version January 24, 2020 provide a Contract Sales Report within the time and manner specified herein shall constitute a material breach of this Agreement and if not cured within thirty (30) days of written notice to Supplier shall be deemed a cause for termination of the Master Agreement, at Principal Procurement Agency’s sole discretion, and/or this Agreement, at OMNIA Partners’ sole discretion. 13. Administrative Fee payments are to be paid by Supplier to OMNIA Partners at the frequency and on the due date stated in Section 12, above, for Supplier’s submission of corresponding Contract Sales Reports. Administrative Fee payments are to be made via Automated Clearing House (ACH) to the OMNIA Partners designated financial institution identified in Exhibit D. Failure to provide a payment of the Administrative Fee within the time and manner specified herein shall constitute a material breach of this Agreement and if not cured within thirty (30) days of written notice to Supplier shall be deemed a cause for termination of the Master Agreement, at Principal Procurement Agency’s sole discretion, and/or this Agreement, at OMNIA Partners’ sole discretion. All Administrative Fees not paid when due shall bear interest at a rate equal to the lesser of one and one-half percent (1 1/2%) per month or the maximum rate permitted by law until paid in full. 14. Supplier shall maintain an accounting of all purchases made by Participating Public Agencies under the Master Agreement. OMNIA Partners, or its designee, in OMNIA Partners’ sole discretion, reserves the right to compare Participating Public Agency records with Contract Sales Reports submitted by Supplier for a period of four (4) years from the date OMNIA Partners receives such report. In addition, OMNIA Partners may engage a third party to conduct an independent audit of Supplier’s monthly reports. In the event of such an audit, Supplier shall provide all materials reasonably requested relating to such audit by OMNIA Partners at the location designated by OMNIA Partners. In the event an underreporting of Contract Sales and a resulting underpayment of Administrative Fees is revealed, OMNIA Partners will notify the Supplier in writing. Supplier will have thirty (30) days from the date of such notice to resolve the discrepancy to OMNIA Partners’ reasonable satisfaction, including payment of any Administrative Fees due and owing, together with interest thereon in accordance with Section 13, and reimbursement of OMNIA Partners’ costs and expenses related to such audit. GENERAL PROVISIONS 15. This Agreement, the Master Agreement and the exhibits referenced herein supersede any and all other agreements, either oral or in writing, between the parties hereto with respect to the subject matter hereto and no other agreement, statement, or promise relating to the subject matter of this Agreement which is not contained or incorporated herein shall be valid or binding. In the event of any conflict between the provisions of this Agreement and the Master Agreement, as between OMNIA Partners and Supplier, the provisions of this Agreement shall prevail. 16. If any action at law or in equity is brought to enforce or interpret the provisions of this Agreement or to recover any Administrative Fee and accrued interest, the prevailing party shall be entitled to reasonable attorney’s fees and costs in addition to any other relief to which it may be entitled. 17. This Agreement and OMNIA Partners’ rights and obligations hereunder may be assigned at OMNIA Partners’ sole discretion to an affiliate of OMNIA Partners, any purchaser of any or all or substantially all of the assets of OMNIA Partners, or the successor entity as a result of a merger, reorganization, consolidation, conversion or change of control, whether by operation of law or otherwise. Supplier may not assign its obligations hereunder without the prior written consent of OMNIA Partners. DocuSign Envelope ID: 04FE5423-8AD6-4BEC-B8A9-37B243CBA1A7 CONFIDENTIAL Version January 24, 2020 18. All written communications given hereunder shall be delivered by first-class mail, postage prepaid, or overnight delivery on receipt to the addresses as set forth below. A. OMNIA Partners: OMNIA Partners Attn: President 840 Crescent Centre Drive Suite 600 Franklin, TN 37067 B. Supplier: Exemplis LLC. Attn: Contracts 6415 Katella Ave Cypress, CA 90630 19. If any provision of this Agreement shall be deemed to be, or shall in fact be, illegal, inoperative or unenforceable, the same shall not affect any other provision or provisions herein contained or render the same invalid, inoperative or unenforceable to any extent whatever, and this Agreement will be construed by limiting or invalidating such provision to the minimum extent necessary to make such provision valid, legal and enforceable. 20. This Agreement may not be amended, changed, modified, or altered without the prior written consent of the parties hereto, and no provision of this Agreement may be discharged or waived, except by a writing signed by the parties. A waiver of any particular provision will not be deemed a waiver of any other provision, nor will a waiver given on one occasion be deemed to apply to any other occasion. 21. This Agreement shall inure to the benefit of and shall be binding upon OMNIA Partners, the Supplier and any respective successor and assign thereto; subject, however, to the limitations contained herein. 22. This Agreement will be construed under and governed by the laws of the State of Delaware, excluding its conflicts of law provisions and any action arising out of or related to this Agreement shall be commenced solely and exclusively in the state or federal courts in Williamson County Tennessee. 23. This Agreement may be executed in counterparts, each of which is an original but all of which, together, shall constitute but one and the same instrument. The exchange of copies of this Agreement and of signature pages by facsimile, or by .pdf or similar electronic transmission, will constitute effective execution and delivery of this Agreement as to the parties and may be used in lieu of the original Agreement for all purposes. Signatures of the parties transmitted by facsimile, or by .pdf or similar electronic transmission, will be deemed to be their original signatures for any purpose whatsoever. DocuSign Envelope ID: 04FE5423-8AD6-4BEC-B8A9-37B243CBA1A7 CONFIDENTIAL Version January 24, 2020 Exemplis LLC. NATIONAL INTERGOVERNMENTAL PURCHASING ALLIANCE COMPANY, A DELAWARE CORPORATION D/B/A OMNIA PARTNERS, PUBLIC SECTOR Signature Signature Sarah Vavra Name Name Sr. Vice President, Public Sector Contracting Title Title Date Date DocuSign Envelope ID: 04FE5423-8AD6-4BEC-B8A9-37B243CBA1A7 VP Finance Patrick Sommerfield 4/6/2020 | 12:27 PM CDT 5/1/2020 | 2:02 PM CDT CONFIDENTIAL ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENT Exhibit A Master Agreement The Master Agreement, by and between the Principal Procurement Agency and the Supplier, is incorporated herein by reference as though fully set forth herein. DocuSign Envelope ID: 04FE5423-8AD6-4BEC-B8A9-37B243CBA1A7 ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENT Exhibit B MASTER INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATIVE PURCHASING AGREEMENT This Master Intergovernmental Cooperative Purchasing Agreement (this “Agreement”) is entered into by and between those certain government agencies that execute a Principal Procurement Agency Certificate (“Principal Procurement Agencies”) with National Intergovernmental Purchasing Alliance Company, a Delaware corporation d/b/a OMNIA Partners, Public Sector and/or Communities Program Management, LLC, a California limited liability company d/b/a U.S. Communities (collectively, “OMNIA Partners”) to be appended and made a part hereof and such other public agencies (“Participating Public Agencies”) who register to participate in the cooperative purchasing programs administered by OMNIA Partners and its affiliates and subsidiaries (collectively, the “OMNIA Partners Parties”) by either registering on the OMNIA Partners website (www.omniapartners.com/publicsector or any successor website), or by executing a copy of this Agreement. RECITALS WHEREAS, after a competitive solicitation and selection process by Principal Procurement Agencies, in compliance with their own policies, procedures, rules and regulations, a number of suppliers have entered into “Master Agreements” (herein so called) to provide a variety of goods, products and services (“Products”) to the applicable Principal Procurement Agency and the Participating Public Agencies; WHEREAS, Master Agreements are made available by Principal Procurement Agencies through the OMNIA Partners Parties and provide that Participating Public Agencies may purchase Products on the same terms, conditions and pricing as the Principal Procurement Agency, subject to any applicable federal and/or local purchasing ordinances and the laws of the State of purchase; and WHEREAS, in addition to Master Agreements, the OMNIA Partners Parties may from time to time offer Participating Public Agencies the opportunity to acquire Products through other group purchasing agreements. NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises contained in this Agreement, and of the mutual benefits to result, the parties hereby agree as follows: 1. Each party will facilitate the cooperative procurement of Products. 2. The Participating Public Agencies shall procure Products in accordance with and subject to the relevant federal, state and local statutes, ordinances, rules and regulations that govern Participating Public Agency’s procurement practices. The Participating Public Agencies hereby acknowledge and agree that it is the intent of the parties that all provisions of this Agreement and that Principal Procurement Agencies’ participation in the program described herein comply with all applicable laws, including but not limited to the requirements of 42 C.F.R. § 1001.952(j), as may be amended from time to time. The Participating Public Agencies further acknowledge and agree that they are solely responsible for their compliance with all applicable “safe harbor” regulations, including but not limited to any and all obligations to fully and accurately report discounts and incentives. 3. The Participating Public Agency represents and warrants that the Participating Public Agency is not a hospital or other healthcare provider and is not purchasing Products on behalf of a hospital or healthcare provider. 4. The cooperative use of Master Agreements shall be in accordance with the terms and conditions DocuSign Envelope ID: 04FE5423-8AD6-4BEC-B8A9-37B243CBA1A7 ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENT Exhibit B, continued Version January 24, 2020 of the Master Agreements, except as modification of those terms and conditions is otherwise required by applicable federal, state or local law, policies or procedures. 5. The Principal Procurement Agencies will make available, upon reasonable request, Master Agreement information which may assist in improving the procurement of Products by the Participating Public Agencies. 6. The Participating Public Agency agrees the OMNIA Partners Parties may provide access to group purchasing organization (“GPO”) agreements directly or indirectly by enrolling the Participating Public Agency in another GPO’s purchasing program provided the purchase of Products through the OMNIA Partners Parties or any other GPO shall be at the Participating Public Agency’s sole discretion. 7. The Participating Public Agencies (each a “Procuring Party”) that procure Products through any Master Agreement or GPO Product supply agreement (each a “GPO Contract”) will make timely payments to the distributor, manufacturer or other vendor (collectively, “Supplier”) for Products received in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Master Agreement or GPO Contract, as applicable. Payment for Products and inspections and acceptance of Products ordered by the Procuring Party shall be the exclusive obligation of such Procuring Party. Disputes between Procuring Party and any Supplier shall be resolved in accordance with the law and venue rules of the State of purchase unless otherwise agreed to by the Procuring Party and Supplier. 8. The Procuring Party shall not use this Agreement as a method for obtaining additional concessions or reduced prices for purchase of similar products or services outside of the Master Agreement. Master Agreements may be structured with not-to-exceed pricing, in which cases the Supplier may offer the Procuring Party and the Procuring Party may accept lower pricing or additional concessions for purchase of Products through a Master Agreement. 9. The Procuring Party shall be responsible for the ordering of Products under this Agreement. A non-procuring party shall not be liable in any fashion for any violation by a Procuring Party, and , to the extent permitted by applicable law, the Procuring Party shall hold non-procuring party harmless from any liability that may arise from the acts or omissions of the Procuring Party. 10. WITHOUT LIMITING THE GENERALITY OF THE FOREGOING, THE OMNIA PARTNERS PARTIES EXPRESSLY DISCLAIM ALL EXPRESS OR IMPLIED REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES REGARDING ANY PRODUCT, MASTER AGREEMENT AND GPO CONTRACT. THE OMNIA PARTNERS PARTIES SHALL NOT BE LIABLE IN ANY WAY FOR ANY SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, EXEMPLARY, PUNITIVE, OR RELIANCE DAMAGES, EVEN IF THE OMNIA PARTNERS PARTIES ARE ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. FURTHER, THE PROCURING PARTY ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT THE OMNIA PARTNERS PARTIES SHALL HAVE NO LIABILITY FOR ANY ACT OR OMISSION BY A SUPPLIER OR OTHER PARTY UNDER A MASTER AGREEMENT OR GPO CONTRACT. 11. This Agreement shall remain in effect until termination by either party giving thirty (30) days’ written notice to the other party. The provisions of Paragraphs 6 - 10 hereof shall survive any such termination. 12. This Agreement shall take effect upon (i) execution of the Principal Procurement Agency Certificate, or (ii) registration on the OMNIA Partners website or the execution of this Agreement by a Participating Public Agency, as applicable. DocuSign Envelope ID: 04FE5423-8AD6-4BEC-B8A9-37B243CBA1A7 ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENT Exhibit B, continued Version January 24, 2020 NATIONAL INTERGOVERNMENTAL PURCHASING ALLIANCE COMPANY, A DELAWARE CORPORATION D/B/A OMNIA PARTNERS, PUBLIC SECTOR AND/OR COMMUNITIES PROGRAM MANAGEMENT, LLC, A CALIFORNIA LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY D/B/A U.S. COMMUNITIES Authorized Signature Signature Sarah E. Vavra Name Name Sr. Vice President, Public Sector Contracting Title and Agency Name Title Date Date DocuSign Envelope ID: 04FE5423-8AD6-4BEC-B8A9-37B243CBA1A7 ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENT Exhibit C CONTRACT SALES REPORT Contract Sales Report submitted electronically in Microsoft Excel: DocuSign Envelope ID: 04FE5423-8AD6-4BEC-B8A9-37B243CBA1A7 ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENT Exhibit D Instructions for Providing Payments  All payments are to be made as follows. ACH payments are preferred. ACH Instructions ACH Information For: OMNIA Partners, LLC Bank Name: Fifth Third Bank ACH Routing Transit Number: 064103833 Account Number: 7362675998 Regular, Courier or Delivered Mail for Checks OMNIA Partners ATTN: Controller 840 Crescent Centre Drive Suite 600 Franklin, TN 37067  Please email any questions regarding payments to accounting@omniapartners.com. DocuSign Envelope ID: 04FE5423-8AD6-4BEC-B8A9-37B243CBA1A7 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2773 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/16/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE the plans and AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director’s prior instruction to the City of Lafayette and the city’s contractor to reconfigure striping on a portion of Pleasant Hill Road (Road No. 3651A) between Reliez Valley Road and Green Valley Road, Lafayette area. (100% Local Road Funds) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Warren Lai, Public Works Director/Chief Engineer Report Title:APPROVE the plans and AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director’s prior instruction to the City of Lafayette and the city’s contractor to reconfigure striping on a portion of Pleasant Hill Road between Reliez Valley Road and Green Valley Road. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE the plans and AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director’s prior instruction to the City of Lafayette and the city’s contractor to reconfigure striping on a portion of Pleasant Hill Road (Road No.3651A)between Reliez Valley Road and Green Valley Road, Lafayette area. (County Project No.: 0672-6U2031) (District IV) FISCAL IMPACT: 100% funded by Local Road Funds. BACKGROUND: On June 4,2024,Contra Costa County entered into a Joint Road Pavement Project Agreement with the City of Lafayette,as approved by the County Board of Supervisors on June 4,2024 (File #24-1657),for the overlay of a small portion of Pleasant Hill Road within the County limits.To accommodate a bike lane and pedestrian pathway,lane striping along Pleasant Hill Road between Reliez Valley Road and Green Valley Road within the County limits was reconfigured as part of the overlay project.Lane striping was modified per the attached plan. Approval of the striping plan is requested to adopt or authorize the striping on Pleasant Hill Road. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Striping to accommodate a bike lane and pedestrian path along this section of Pleasant Hill Road between Reliez Valley Road and Green Valley Road, would not be approved. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 1 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2774 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/26/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE the Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project and take related actions under the California Environmental Quality Act, and AUTHORIZE the Chief Engineer, or designee, to advertise the Project. North Richmond area. (31% U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Grant, 42% Department of Water Resources Grant, and 27% other state and local grants) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Warren Lai, Public Works Director/Chief Engineer Report Title: APPROVE the Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project and take related actions under CEQA, North Richmond area. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE the Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project and AUTHORIZE the Chief Engineer,or designee,to advertise the Project,North Richmond area.[Project No.7505-6F8101]DCD-CP#22 -17 (District I), and FIND,on the basis of the whole record,including the proposed Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration and any comments received and staff responses thereto,that there is no substantial evidence the Project may have significant effect on the environment,and that the Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND)reflects the independent judgment and analysis of the lead agency, Contra Costa County (County). ADOPT the MND and Mitigation and Monitoring Reporting Program for the Project. SPECIFY that the Contra Costa County Public Works Director is the custodian of the documents and other material that constitute the record of proceedings upon which the Board’s decision is based,and that the record of proceedings is located at 255 Glacier Drive, Martinez, CA. DIRECT the Director of Conservation and Development (DCD),or designee,to file a Notice of Determination (NOD) with the County Clerk, and, AUTHORIZE the Chief Engineer,or designee,to arrange for payment of $2,916.75 for California Department of Fish and Wildlife fees,a $50 fee to the County Clerk for filing the NOD,and a $25 fee to DCD for processing. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2774,Version:1 FISCAL IMPACT: Estimated Project cost:$5,900,000.00.31%U.S.Environmental Protection Agency Grant,42%Department of Water Resources Grant, and 27% other state and local grants. BACKGROUND: The Flood Control District (District)-sponsored project will improve habitat connectivity for aquatic species and stormwater conveyance through the lower Wildcat Creek flood control channel and provide community amenities.Project activities include retrofitting an existing fish ladder to create a more natural fish passage corridor.Downstream of the fish ladder,the existing sediment basin will be desilted and expanded to increase sediment storage capacity.Engineered berms and maintenance access ramps will be constructed within the sediment basin to stabilize the low flow channel of Wildcat Creek to enhance fish passage and improve access for maintenance activities.Upstream of the fish ladder,the channel will be modified by removing riprap to improve flow conditions.In the District-owned parcel adjacent to the fish ladder and sediment basin, community amenities will include trail improvements,overlook areas,interpretive features,and potential recreational and educational areas.All channel and basin improvements are planned to be implemented by the District while the community amenities are planned to be implemented by others. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Delay in approving the project may result in a delay of design, construction, and may jeopardize funding. ATTACHMENTS: CEQA documents Contact: Laura Cremin, (925) 313-2015 LEC:cp <\\PW-DATA\grpdata\engsvc\ENVIRO\Staff Reports\2024\9-10-24\Wildcat> Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement (WO8101)\CP#22-17 SR Wildcat Creek Fish Passage DRAFT 8-5-24.doc CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 1 Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts - Final Prepared for: August 2024 Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Prepared by: FlowWest P.O. Box 29392, Oakland, CA 94604 Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 2 Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) TABLE OF CONTENTS 1.Project Description ____________________________________________________ 5 1.1 Project Location and Surrounding Land Use _______________________________________ 6 1.2 Project Background ___________________________________________________________ 8 1.3 Project Goals and Objectives __________________________________________________ 11 1.4 Components _______________________________________________________________ 11 1.5 Construction Details _________________________________________________________ 17 1.6 Operation and Maintenance __________________________________________________ 20 2.Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts ____ 21 CEQA ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST FORM __________________________________________ 22 ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION _______________________________________________ 25 AESTHETICS SUMMARY _________________________________________________________ 26 AGRICULTURAL AND FOREST RESOURCES SUMMARY _________________________________ 29 AIR QUALITY SUMMARY _________________________________________________________ 33 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES SUMMARY _______________________________________________ 39 CULTURAL RESOURCES SUMMARY ________________________________________________ 56 ENERGY SUMMARY _____________________________________________________________ 63 GEOLOGY AND SOILS SUMMARY __________________________________________________ 65 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS SUMMARY __________________________________________ 69 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS SUMMARY __________________________________ 72 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY SUMMARY ______________________________________ 78 LAND USE AND PLANNING SUMMARY______________________________________________ 82 MINERAL RESOURCES SUMMARY _________________________________________________ 83 NOISE SUMMARY ______________________________________________________________ 84 POPULATION AND HOUSING SUMMARY ____________________________________________ 94 PUBLIC SERVICES SUMMARY _____________________________________________________ 95 RECREATION SUMMARY _________________________________________________________ 98 TRANSPORTATION SUMMARY ____________________________________________________ 99 TRIBAL CULTURAL RESOURCES SUMMARY _________________________________________ 103 UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS SUMMARY _______________________________________ 105 WILDFIRE SUMMARY __________________________________________________________ 107 MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE SUMMARY ________________________________ 109 ATTACHMENTS _______________________________________________________________ 111 Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 3 FIGURES FIGURE 1 - 1: PROJECT LOCATION FIGURE 1 - 2: REGIONAL PROJECT LOCATION FIGURE 1 - 3: FISH PASSAGE STRUCTURE FIGURE 1 - 4: EXISTING FISH LADDER, FILLED WITH SEDIMENT, LOOKING UPSTREAM FROM SEDIMENT BASIN (PHOTO FROM 2022) FIGURE 1 - 5: PROJECT ASSESSOR’S PARCEL NUMBERS FIGURE 1 - 6: PROJECT ELEMENTS FIGURE 1 - 7: CROSS-SECTIONAL VIEWS OF BOULDER BUTTRESSES FIGURE 1 - 8: PROJECT FISH PASSAGE AND SEDIMENT BASIN ELEMENTS FIGURE 1 - 9: TRASH DEFLECTION BOLLARDS FIGURE 1 - 10: COMMUNITY AMENITIES ELEMENTS FIGURE 1 - 11: STAGING AND ACCESS FIGURE 2 – 1: CNDDB RESULTS WITHIN 5 MILES OF THE PROJECT SITE FIGURE 2 – 2: WETLANDS AND WATERS WITHIN PROJECT BOUNDARY FIGURE 2 – 3: WETLANDS AND WATERS WITH IMPACTS BY PROJECT ELEMENT TABLES TABLE 1 - 1: PROJECT CUT AND FILL TABLE 1 - 2: PROJECT PHASING AND EQUIPMENT TABLE 2 - 1: CEQA AIR QUALITY SIGNIFICANCE THRESHOLDS TABLE 2 - 2: AVERAGE DAILY CONSTRUCTION EMISSIONS WITH COMPARISON TO BAAQMD THRESHOLDS TABLE 2 - 3: PROJECT AND CUMULATIVE TAC IMPACTS ON EXISTING MAXIMUM EXPOSED SENSITIVE RECEPTORS ON THE PROJECT SITE AND IN ITS VICINITY TABLE 2 - 4: SPECIAL STATUS SPECIES POTENTIALLY OCCURRING IN THE BSA TABLE 2 – 5: WETLANDS AND WATERS WITHIN THE PROJECT BOUNDARIES TABLE 2 - 6: MEASUREMENT DATA AND SURVEY OBSERVATIONS TABLE 2 - 7: MODELED NOISE LEVELS DURING PROJECT CONSTRUCTION PHASES TABLE 2 - 8: MODELED CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT VIBRATION LEVELS Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 4 ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS Term Abbreviation Burlington Northern Santa Fe BNSF California Department of Fish and Wildlife CDFW California Department of Water Resources DWR Confederated Villages of Lisjan Nation CVLN Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District the District Cubic feet per second Cfs East Bay Regional Park District EBRPD Engineer Research and Development Center ERDC Northwest Hydraulic Consultants NHC National Marine Fisheries Service NMFS United States Army Corps of Engineers USACE Waterway Experiments Station WES Wildcat-San Pablo Creeks Watershed Council WSPCWC Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 1: Project Description Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 5 1.PROJECT DESCRIPTION Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 1: Project Description Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 6 1.1 PROJECT LOCATION AND SURROUNDING LAND USE The Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project (Project) is located in North Richmond, an unincorporated area in western Contra Costa County and the Cities of Richmond and San Pablo, along the Wildcat Creek between Rumrill Boulevard and 6th Street (FIGURE 1 - 1). The Project Site includes the existing flood control and fish passage structures, the downstream sediment basin, the adjacent trail, and Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District (District) corporation yard. The Project Site is located in a highly urbanized area of Contra Costa County with light industrial buildings, schools, and housing along the creek corridor. Adjacent lands include a railroad line that has been denuded of vegetation. Adjacent lots are zoned for light industrial use. Topography within the vicinity of the Project Site is generally flat. The San Pablo Bay is approximately two miles west of the Project, and the cities of San Pablo and Richmond flank the eastern side of North Richmond – forming a dense urban area between I-580 to the south and I-80 to the east (FIGURE 1 - 2). Wildcat Creek runs through the entire east-west extent of the Project and continues to flow west for approximately two miles into the San Pablo Bay. Wildcat Creek originates in Wildcat Canyon, and runs through the cities of Richmond, San Pablo, El Cerrito, and unincorporated Contra Costa County. Wildcat Creek within the Project Site runs under two bridges—the Union Pacific railroad (UPRR) and Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) railroad. Wildcat Creek Trail (managed by East Bay Regional Park District, and part of the Bay Trail) is adjacent to Wildcat Creek. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 1: Project Description Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 7 FIGURE 1 - 1: PROJECT LOCATION FIGURE 1 - 2: REGIONAL PROJECT LOCATION Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 1: Project Description Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 8 1.2 PROJECT BACKGROUND The Wildcat Creek Flood Control Project, completed in 1995, extends approximately 2,200 feet along Wildcat Creek between the mouth at San Pablo Bay to Rumrill Boulevard. It increased the Wildcat Creek channel conveyance to 2,300 cubic feet per second (cfs), the 1 percent annual exceedance probability1 (also known as the 100-year flood). This project included construction of the Wildcat Creek flood control structure, an approximately 410- foot-long three-bay structure which is comprised of 8-foot tall concrete walls along the width of the channel, and two 6.5-foot tall, 300-foot-long interior concrete walls which separate the bays (FIGURE 1 - 3). A fish passage structure was built into the bottom of the middle bay of the flood control structure. It is comprised of a low flow concrete slot that is 4 feet wide through the entire 410- foot length of the concrete structure. Starting at the downstream end, an existing ladder fishway extends for 40 feet, which transitions into Washington baffles (also known as offset baffles or vertical slot baffles) for 365 feet. The fish passage structure flows into the sediment basin, which was designed and built to capture some of the large sediment loads from the upper watershed to prevent the accelerated filling of the marsh (Waterways Restoration Institute 2000). FIGURE 1 - 3: FISH PASSAGE STRUCTURE The fish passage structure currently clogs with urban debris and sediment, which increases sediment deposition in the fish passage structure (FIGURE 1 - 4). When blocked with debris, the fish passage structure is a barrier to upstream adult fish migration under all flows. In the sediment basin just downstream of the fish passage structure, poorly defined channels and excess sediment build up in wet 1 1 percent annual exceedance probabilty: 1 in 100 probability of maximum rate of flow of water at a given point in a channel, watercourse, or conduit resulting from the predetermined storm or flood being equaled or exceeded in any given year. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 1: Project Description Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 9 years also create partial fish passage barriers. The District and volunteer groups periodically clear urban debris and sediment from the fish passage structure. Even cleared of the debris, the fish passage structure does not meet California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) current fish passage criteria. In order to bring the fish passage structure up to current fish passage criteria, the District engaged with environmental regulators to select a preferred alternative design for this Project. The preferred alternative incorporates boulders and rocks in the fish passage structure and improves fish passage by creating naturally replicated resting places for migrating fish. The sediment basin presents several fish passage issues related to both natural sediment deposition and sediment removal practices. “Sediment deposited in the basin by winter storms fills the basin and low flow channel before spring migratory flows occur” (NHC 2014); without a well-defined low flow channel, braided channels may form in which none of the constituent flow paths have sufficient depth to meet fish passage criteria. Sediment from the sediment basin was last removed in the early 2010’s. Without regular removal of sediment, the basin’s sediment can pose a barrier to fish passage depending on how the low flow channel is formed in the basin bottom. FIGURE 1 - 4: EXISTING FISH LADDER, FILLED WITH SEDIMENT, LOOKING UPSTREAM FROM SEDIMENT BASIN (PHOTO FROM 2022) Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 1: Project Description Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 10 1.2.1 Project Permissions The Project Site is either owned by the District, in easement to District, or located in Contra Costa County right-of-way (FIGURE 1 - 5). Sediment excavated from the fish ladder passageway and sediment basin will be directly off-hauled and/or temporarily stockpiled in the vacant, upland area of the Project Site that is used by the District as a corporation yard for maintenance. Excavated sediment may be off-hauled to the West County Wastewater District (WCWD), therefore the District will need to enter into a License Agreement with WCWD to allow them access onto the District parcel. The soil will be tested as hazardous materials prior to off-haul to determine if the soil can be accepted by WCWD or otherwise, at alternate suitable location(s) which may also require License Agreement or real estate transactions. Work beneath the UPRR in the grant deed area and near the BNSF railroad will require notification to the relevant utilities of work being conducted. Additional permissions and real estate transactions may be necessary for the Project to be implemented. FIGURE 1 - 5: PROJECT ASSESSOR’S PARCEL NUMBERS 1.2.2 Utilities The Project’s geotechnical and subsurface investigations identified several utilities located beneath and above the project elements. The closest utility to the upstream channel modifications is a 16” high pressure gas line of unknown depth that is adjacent to the BNSF bridge, approximately 35 linear feet from the channel modifications. Beneath the fish passage structure there is a Kinder-Morgan-owned natural gas pipeline, which runs approximately 42 feet beneath the existing fish passage structure; a WCWD sanitary sewer pipe, which runs approximately 6 feet beneath the existing fish passage structure; an abandoned Shell Oil pipeline that crosses approximately 6 feet beneath the fish passage structure at the upstream end of the UPRR bridge, and a Verizon/MCI fiber optic cable which crosses Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 1: Project Description Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 11 approximately 25 feet beneath the fish passage structure. Within the sediment basin, there is an existing Kinder-Morgan pipeline, of unknown depth but at least 3 feet below the design bottom elevation of the sediment basin and a Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) utility pole that runs north-south across the sediment basin. The PG&E utility pole will have to be relocated north of its current location to accommodate the sediment basin expansion. The Project’s excavation depths will not impact any buried utilities. 1.3 PROJECT GOALS AND OBJECTIVES The purpose of the Project is to: •Improve habitat connectivity for aquatic species, including the Central California Coast steelhead trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), by retrofitting the fish passage structure and sediment basin to meet fish passage criteria. •Improve flow and sediment conditions of Wildcat Creek. •Provide recreational and educational benefits to the local community. These goals will be accomplished by: •Retrofitting the existing fish ladder and modifying sediment basin within the Lower Wildcat Creek Flood Control Channel to create a widened and more natural fish passage corridor. •Expanding the sediment basin to the north so that the amount of sediment it captures is the same as its original capacity. No sediment removal will take place in the riparian woodland area that has formed in the original area of the sediment basin. •Modifying the channel by removing a section of riprap and installing trash deflection bollards upstream of the fish passage structure in order to improve flow conditions. •Providing public amenities for the community to use including trail improvements, overlook areas, interpretive features, and potential recreational and educational areas. 1.4 COMPONENTS The Project components include improvements to the fish passage structure, modifications to the sediment basin, modifications to the flood control channel, and community amenities. FIGURE 1 - 6 shows the Project Site and main Project components. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 1: Project Description Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 12 FIGURE 1 - 6: PROJECT ELEMENTS 1.4.1 Fish Passage Structure Improvements The District will modify the existing fish passage structure, which consists of a fish ladder (4 feet wide and 405 feet long) located within the middle bay of the flood control structure, in order to resolve the current issues related to flows and clogging. The structure will be modified to meet the CDFW and NMFS fish passage criteria related to fish passage design flows, water velocity, hydraulic drop height, water depth, and turbulence (CDFG 2009). This will be accomplished by demolishing the existing fish ladder and replacing it with a step pool system and roughened ramp channel. A step pool system will be constructed as the western segment (approximately 159 feet), and a roughened ramp channel will be constructed for the eastern segment (approximately 245 feet). The roughened ramp design is shown in cross-section in FIGURE 1 - 7. The roughened ramp will incorporate large boulders to create eddies and resting places for migrating steelhead. In order to construct a more natural streambed, the boulders will be grouted in concrete to soften edges. Boulder weirs will be used to dissipate energy from flows and to create the step pools. The new design will also meet USACE performance criteria related to the 1% annual exceedance probability flood, or 100-year flood. With the above modifications described above, the fish passage structure will be able to accommodate flows up to 170 cfs. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 1: Project Description Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 13 FIGURE 1 - 7: CROSS-SECTIONAL VIEWS OF BOULDER BUTTRESSES 1.4.2 Sediment Basin Modifications As described in Section 1.2, Wildcat Creek’s channel through the sediment basin is often not deep enough for fish to travel through it. Sediment basin modifications will create a more stable channel for fish passage and will aid in access to maintain the sediment basin. The existing sediment basin will first have sediment removed within the original area, excluding the riparian zone protection area. One combination Sediment Removal Platform and Access Ramp will be constructed so that equipment, such as excavators, can maintain the channel. Two training berms, one of which is combined with an access ramp, will be constructed across the sediment basin to help stabilize the low flow channel in the sediment basin. The training berms will direct flows to form and maintain a single-threaded, passable channel. To increase basin capacity and thereby reduce the depth of deposition from a given event, the sediment basin will be expanded by approximately 50 feet to the north to a depth of 16 feet below current ground surface. A riparian zone protection area will be created along the south side of the channel to coincide with the outer limit of the riparian vegetation zone to preserve riparian vegetation, and willows will be planted along the edges of the basin and on the eastern training berm. FIGURE 1 - 8 shows these elements. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 1: Project Description Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 14 FIGURE 1 - 8: PROJECT FISH PASSAGE AND SEDIMENT BASIN ELEMENTS 1.4.3 Flood Control Channel Modifications The Project would regrade a segment of the channel upstream of the BNSF railroad bridge to improve flow conditions within Wildcat Creek. The Project would lower the bed of the channel by removing grouted riprap along 54 feet of the channel bed. The maximum disturbance of this element would be a temporary depth of 2 feet, with backfilling of rock to form a lip to ensure a consistent slope and ensure channel thalweg stability. This would result in lowering the bed by a maximum of approximately 0.8 feet with the goal of allowing sediment to flush downstream. All activity would take place outside of BNSF Railroad right of way. Trash Deflection Bollards Trash deflection bollards will be added upstream of the fish passage structure to prevent clogging from urban debris. The area immediately upstream of the existing fish passage structure will be excavated to 2 feet below the fish passage structure base. A concrete pad will be built in a triangle shape of 14 feet by 15.6 feet by 15.6 feet, with the 14-foot side facing and centered on the fish passage structure so that the bollards would divert any debris from entering the fish passage structure. Nine bollards that are 6 inches in diameter and rise 4 feet above the fishway base will be formed in a chevron shape. The bollards will be composed of galvanized steel that is filled with concrete and spaced 2.5 feet apart (FIGURE 1 - 9). Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 1: Project Description Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 15 FIGURE 1 - 9: TRASH DEFLECTION BOLLARDS 1.4.4 Community Amenities The Project will include construction of public amenities for the local community. Key elements include a mini park, trail improvements, and a fish passage overlook. The maximum depth of disturbance of community amenities would be 3 feet for the mini park, 2 feet for the trail improvements, and 3 feet for the fish passage overlook. See FIGURE 1 - 10 below. FIGURE 1 - 10: COMMUNITY AMENITIES ELEMENTS Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 1: Project Description Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 16 Verde Mini Park The Verde Mini Park (mini park) will serve as a recreational amenity for community members to sit, play, and learn in an informal but naturalistic setting. The park includes a composite wood deck, partially covered by a fabric shade. Seating options will include wood platform benches and tree stumps. Interactive components to the mini park will include an artificial turf play area with mounds and wood logs between mounds for informal play. The park will also have bike racks in order to encourage biking as a form of transportation to the park. Trail Improvements The existing trail will be demolished and approximately 1,500 linear feet of replacement trail will be constructed between Verde Elementary School and the fish passage overlook. The new trail will be realigned to accommodate the expanded basin. The trail will be composed of asphalt and decomposed granite and follow the East Bay Regional Park District’s (EBRPD) design guidelines to maintain consistency with other parts of the Bay Trail. Lighting that is dark-sky compliant will be placed along the trail which will also follow EBRPD’s design guidance. Fish Passage Overlook The replacement trail will end at the fish passage overlook (overlook area). The overlook area will feature interactive features, such as interpretive signs, telescopes, art on the pavement, and a wildlife play sculpture. The overlook area’s seating will include tree stump seating and cast-in-place concrete terrace seats/walls as part of a small amphitheater. The overlook area will also feature a rain garden bioretention area with native planting. Guardrails will be installed to keep visitors from the fish passage structure, which has a steep drop off. Other Components New Wayfinding Signage New wayfinding signage will be included at the trail entry at the east side of the Project Site. Plantings, Wildlife Fencing, and Gates New plantings will include a planting mix of native, drought-tolerant plants, which will be placed along the trail. A 6-foot-high wildlife-passage friendly fence will be built along the north side trail to keep trash from blowing into the creek and to separate the community amenities from the District corporation yard. The fencing will be constructed per EBRPD’s standards. Gates include a gate to a pedestrian walkway on the west side of the project connecting to Verde school and an 18-foot-wide gate and fence on the north side of the mini park to allow for maintenance access for the District corporation yard through the mini park. Lighting The lighting for the community amenities will include a mixture of dark sky compliant with downward-facing and low-lumen output, bollard lighting, on-ground luminaire low-level pathway lighting, and pole lighting throughout the mini park. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 1: Project Description Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 17 1.5 CONSTRUCTION DETAILS 1.5.1 Staging and Access A portion of the large open area, located in the northern portion of the Project Site and owned by the District, will be used as a staging area. The staging area and fish passage structure and sediment basin work will be accessed from Da Villa Road. The channel modification work will be accessed from Rumrill Boulevard (FIGURE 1 - 11). FIGURE 1 - 11: STAGING AND ACCESS 1.5.2 Tree Preservation and Removal Tree removal will be limited to what is necessary to construct the Project. Approximately 28 trees, including willows, cottonwoods, and coast live oaks will be removed. Almost all of the trees on the southern side of the existing sediment basin, mapped as riparian wetland, will be preserved (see Figure 1-8, Proposed Riparian Zone Protection), with the exception of five willows that will be removed for the construction of the training berm. 1.5.3 Cut and Fill The excavated sediment material from the sediment basin will be off-hauled and/or stockpiled temporarily at an upland location in the northern portion of the Project Site. The soil will be tested as Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 1: Project Description Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 18 hazardous materials prior to off-haul and/or stockpile storage. If the soil contains hazardous levels, the soil will be appropriately remediated in compliance with federal, State, and local hazardous materials regulations, and any off-hauled material would be disposed of at the appropriate waste facility. Excess demolition material (including concrete and riprap) would be transported to the appropriate disposal facility. TABLE 1 - 1 does not include concrete cut and fill for the fish passage structure demolition and construction, which is approximately 1,133 CY of cut and 600 CY of fill. TABLE 1 - 1: PROJECT CUT AND FILL Project Component Cut (CY) Fill (CY) Sediment Basin Expansion 20,203.32 0 Basin Sediment Removal 16,142.26 72.34 Upstream Training Berm 73.31 1,266.97 Downstream Training Berm and Access Platform 163.61 367.3 Upstream Access Platform & Ramp 571.97 0 Downstream Access Platform & Ramp 970.37 0 Platform Side Slopes 2,728.36 0 Fish Passage Structure 578.71 0.02 Upstream Channel Modifications 3.27 1.05 Trash Deflection Bollards 0 100 Community Amenities 3,000 2,000 Total 36,364.05 3,807.68 1.5.4 Work Window, Construction Workers, and Equipment Project construction is anticipated to begin in 2025 and take one construction season. The available construction window is limited by the presence of protected species and sensitive habitats. Construction would take place between April and November, and to minimize impacts to special status fish species in-water work would be further limited to June 1st through October 31st.A crew of approximately 10 construction workers, with a maximum of 15 construction workers during peak activities, is anticipated to construct the Project. It is assumed that hauling activities would be consistent over the full construction window of 125 days, which is not represented in TABLE 1 - 2. The community amenities are expected to be constructed separately, but could occur as shown in TABLE 1 - 2. The Project is broken down by phase and, equipment used for construction in TABLE 1 - 2, below. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 1: Project Description Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 19 TABLE 1 - 2: PROJECT PHASING AND EQUIPMENT Project Component Description Equipment Time Phase 1 Site Preparation Grubbing/clearing •Mower •Track Pulled Scraper •Conventional Scraper •Bulldozer 1 week Phase 2 Sediment Removal Removal of existing sediment within basin •Excavator •Front Loader •Dump Truck •Crane •LGP Track Dump truck 2 weeks Phase 3 Fish Passage Structure Modifications Demolition and construction, including bollards •Jackhammer •Mini Excavator 6 weeks Sediment Basin Expansion and Modifications Expand sediment basin, build access and training berms •Excavator •Front Loader •Bulldozer/Grader •LGP Track Dump truck •Dump Truck •Compactor •Water Truck 6 weeks Flood Control Channel Modifications Grading/removal of riprap and lip construction •Excavator •Front Loader •Dump Truck •Crane 2 weeks Phase 3 Community Amenities Construction of play area, overlook, outdoor classroom, other associated work •Rubber-tired Dozer •Tractor/Loader/Backhoe •Water Truck •Forklift •Concrete Truck •Crane •Paver and Paving Equipment •Roller 4 weeks Phase 4 Site clean-up and Revegetation •Drill Seeder •Hydroseeder •Grader 2 weeks Total 15 weeks Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 1: Project Description Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 20 1.6 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE Once completed, the Project will not require regular operation. Maintenance activities would include annual inspection of the low flow channel through the sediment basin to assess the extent of sedimentation and recommend potential sediment removal. Sediment removal will take place as needed to maintain fish passage through the sediment basin. Sediment removal would follow design dimensions from the as-built conditions to maintain the training berms and access ramps. Annual inspection and potential clearing of debris and sediment from the fish passage structure is anticipated, though the structure will be designed to pass sediment to the basin. The channel modification area will need annual inspection to ensure adequate cross-sections and bed elevations are maintained. If the channel through the sediment basin does not form a low-flow channel, adaptive management will be necessary to assess the need and actions to maintain fish passage through the sediment basin. The community amenities will be maintained by a separate entity from the District. Though the separate entity has not yet been identified, community amenities maintenance will likely also be inspected bi-annually to ensure they are in serviceable conditions for community use. Sources of Information California Department of Fish and Game. 2009. California Salmonid Stream Habitat Restoration Manual, Part XII: Fish Passage Design and Implementation. Available at: https://nrm.dfg.cYa.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=12512+&tabid=189&mid=601 Northwest Hydraulic Consultants. 2014. Wildcat Creek Fish Ladder Retro-fit: Alternative Analysis and Basis of Design Report. United States Army Corps of Engineers. 1988. Wildcat and San Pablo Creeks, Modified Selected Plan, Design Memorandum No. 1, Modified Selected Plan Design Memorandum Supplement No. 2. Prepared by Sacramento District of the USACE. May 1988. Waterways Restoration Institute. 2000. Lower Wildcat Creek Restoration Project Designed and Constructed in 2000 Richmond, California. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 21 2.INITIAL STUDY AND MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 22 CEQA ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST FORM 1.Project Title:Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project 2.Lead Agency Name and Address: Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development 30 Muir Road, Martinez, CA 94553 3.Contact Person and Phone Number: Laura Cremin, Environmental Analyst, (925) 313-2015 , Laura.Cremin@pw.cccounty.us Contra Costa County Public Works Department 4.Project Location:North Richmond, an unincorporated area in western Contra Costa County and the Cities of Richmond and San Pablo, along the Wildcat Creek between Rumrill Boulevard and 6th Street APNs: 409-300-XXX, 409-300-036, 409-311-001, 409-320-XXX, 409- 312-XXX, 411-020-XXX, 411-030-007, 411-020-034 5.Project Sponsor's Name and Address: Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District 255 Glacier Drive, Martinez, CA 94553 6.General Plan Designation: Contra Costa County: Open Space (OS), Public/Semi-Public (PS), Light Industry (LI) City of San Pablo: Parks/Recreation City of Richmond: Parks and Recreation, Business/Light Industrial 7.Zoning:Contra Costa County: Planned Unit (P-1) City of San Pablo: Open Space District (OS) 8.Description of Project: The purpose of the Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project (Project) is to improve habitat connectivity for aquatic species, including Central California Coast steelhead trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), improve channel conveyance, and benefit the local community. Project activities include: •Retrofitting the existing fish ladder and sediment basin within the Lower Wildcat Creek Flood Control Channel to create a more natural fish passage corridor while maintaining sediment basin’s existing capacity. •Widening and modifying the sediment basin to create a more stable channel for fish passage and to aid in access to maintain fish passage through the sediment basin. •Modifying the channel upstream of the fish ladder by removing riprap in the channel to improve sediment transport. •Providing public amenities for the community to use including trail improvements, overlook areas, interpretive features, and potential recreational and educational areas. The Project will meet California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) current fish passage criteria as well as U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) performance criteria related to the 1% annual exceedance probability flood, or 100-year flood. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 23 9.Surrounding Land Uses and Setting: The Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project (Project) is located in North Richmond, an unincorporated area in western Contra Costa County and the Cities of Richmond and San Pablo, along the Wildcat Creek between Rumrill Boulevard and 6th Street. (See FIGURE 1 - 1 above, in Chapter 1.) The Project Site is located in a highly urbanized area of Contra Costa County with light industrial buildings, schools, and housing along the creek corridor. Adjacent lands include a railroad line that has been denuded of vegetation. Adjacent lots are zoned for light industrial use. Topography within the vicinity of the Project Site is generally flat. The San Pablo Bay is approximately two miles west of the Project, and the cities of San Pablo and Richmond flank the eastern side of North Richmond – forming a dense urban area between I-580 to the south and I-80 to the east. Wildcat Creek runs through the entire east-west extent of the Project and continues to flow west for approximately two miles into the San Pablo Bay. Wildcat Creek originates in Wildcat Canyon, and runs through the cities of Richmond, San Pablo, El Cerrito, and unincorporated Contra Costa County. Wildcat Creek Trail (managed by East Bay Regional Park District) is adjacent to Wildcat Creek. 10. Other public agencies whose approval is required (e.g., permits, financing, approval, or participation agreement: U. S. Army Corps of Engineers (Section 404 Clean Water Act permit requirements, Section 408 Rivers and Harbors Act), San Francisco Bay District of the Regional Water Quality Control Board (Section 401 Clean Water Act permit requirements), California Department of Fish and Wildlife (Lake and Streambed Alteration Program), State Water Resources Control Board (Section 402 Clean Water Act- National Pollution Discharge Elimination System General Permit for Storm Water Discharges Associated with Construction and Land Disturbance Activities), West County Wastewater District plant (temporary real property agreement). Coordination and/or approval from the City of Richmond may be necessary due to the Project partially taking place within the City of Richmond as a CEQA-responsible agency. 11.Have California Native American tribes traditionally and culturally affiliated with the Project area requested consultation pursuant to Public Resources Code section 21080.3.1? If so, is there a plan for consultation that includes, for example, the determination of significance of impacts to tribal cultural resources, procedures regarding confidentiality, etc.? Yes, tribes that have previously requested to be notified of Projects within Contra Costa County under AB52 include Wilton Rancheria and the Confederated Villages of Lisjan Nation (CVLN). The District conducted outreach to initiate consultation on November 10, 2023 (refer to Section XVIII. Tribal Cultural Resources for the record of contacts). Wilton Rancheria did not request consultation nor provide information about potential resources. CVLN requested consultation. The District consulted with CVLN regarding the methods of resource investigation identification and avoidance, mitigation, and monitoring measures. Refer to Section XVIII. Tribal Cultural Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 24 Resources for the record of consultation meetings. Measures were agreed upon and consultation was concluded on February 28, 2024. Additionally, coordination with CVLN may occur through Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (refer to Section V. Cultural Resources). Environmental Factors Potentially Affected The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this Project, involving at least one impact that is a “Potentially Significant Impact” as indicated by the checklist on the following pages. Aesthetics Agricultural and Forestry Resources Air Quality Biological Resources Cultural Resources Energy Geology/Soils Greenhouse Gas Emissions Hazards & Hazardous Materials Hydrology/Water Quality Land Use/Planning Mineral Resources Noise Population/Housing Public Services Recreation Transportation Tribal Cultural Resources Utilities/Services Systems Wildfire Mandatory Findings of Significance Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 25 ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION On the basis of this initial evaluation: I find that the Project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment, and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. I find that, although the Project could have a significant effect on the environment, there will not be a significant effect in this case because revisions in the Project have been made by or agreed to by the Project proponent. A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. I find that the Project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required. I find that the Project MAY have a "potentially significant impact" or "potentially significant unless mitigated" impact on the environment, but at least one effect 1) has been adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and 2) has been addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis as described on attached sheets. An ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required, but it must analyze only the effects that remain to be addressed. I find that although the Project could have a significant effect on the environment, because all potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed adequately in an earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION pursuant to applicable standards and (b) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION, including revisions or mitigation measures that are imposed upon the Project, nothing further is required. Syd Sotoodeh [Date] Senior Planner Contra Costa County Department of Conservation & Development July 2, 2024 Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 26 Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 1.AESTHETICS – Except as provided in Public Resources Code Section 21099, would the Project: a)Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista? b)Substantially damage scenic resources, including, but not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and historic building within a state scenic highway? c)In non-urbanized areas, substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of public views of the site and its surroundings? (Public views are those that are experienced from publicly accessible vantage points.) If the Project is in an urbanized area, would the Project conflict with applicable zoning and other regulations governing scenic quality? d)Create a new source of substantial light or glare which would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area? AESTHETICS SUMMARY a)Would the Project have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista? According to the Contra Costa County General Plan 2005 – 2020 (General Plan), the District has two main scenic resources in addition to many localized scenic features: (1) scenic ridges, hillsides, and rock croppings; and (2) the San Francisco Bay/Delta estuary system. The General Plan is still in effect, as Contra Costa County is currently in the process of updating the next version of the General Plan. There are no scenic resources, as defined by General Plan, located on the Project Site. The nearest designated scenic resources to the Project Site are the San Pablo Bay, located approximately 1.2 miles to the northwest, and San Pablo Ridge located approximately five miles to the southeast. The Project Site is not visible from either of these resources. The General Plan, in lieu of identifying scenic vistas, identifies scenic roads as they also afford publicly available views. A scenic road is defined as having a highway, road, drive, or street that, in addition to its transportation function, provides opportunities for the enjoyment of natural and human- made scenic resources. Scenic roads direct views to areas of exceptional beauty, natural resources or landmarks, or historic or cultural interest. In the General Plan, the nearest scenic route is I-580, located approximately 2.4 miles south of the site. Due to the distance and intervening development, the Project Site is not visible from this scenic route. The Project will not have a substantial adverse effect on any scenic vista because no scenic vistas are nearby the Project Site. Therefore, there would be no impact. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 27 b)Would the Project substantially damage scenic resources, including, but not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and historic building within a state scenic highway? There are no officially designated State Scenic Highways or County scenic roadways in or adjacent to the Project Site. The Project Site is located approximately 1.5 miles west of I-80, which is not designated as a State Scenic Highway. The nearest eligible State Scenic Highway, which is also designated as a Scenic Highway in the General Plan, is I-580, located approximately 2.4 miles south of the site. The nearest officially Designated State Scenic Highway is SR-24, located approximately 10.6 miles southeast of the Project Site. There are no scenic resources, as defined by the General Plan, located on the Project Site, of which a view would be available from a scenic highway or roadway. Given the absence of scenic highways proximate to the Project Site, the lack of designated scenic resources (i.e., ridgelines, hillsides, rock outcroppings) on the Project Site, and the presence of intervening development between the Project Site and the nearest scenic highways, the Project would not adversely affect views from a State Scenic Highway. Therefore, there would be no impact. c)In non-urbanized areas, would the Project substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of public views of the site and its surroundings? (Public views are those that are experienced from publicly accessible vantage points.) If the Project is in an urbanized area, would the Project conflict with applicable zoning and other regulations governing scenic quality? The Project is located in North Richmond, which is an urban area. The applicable governing document for scenic quality is the General Plan described in Section I.a. The Project Site is zoned as Planned Unit (P-1) and therefore has specific measures developed for the North Richmond Area. The County General Plan policy related to scenic quality within the North Richmond area states that growth and development should “Achieve an upgrading of the visual appearance and unity of the area through architectural and landscaping requirements and utility undergrounding.” Construction of the Project would include demolition and removal of the existing fish passage structure. The demolition during construction, which will include the presence of large construction equipment, could affect the existing visual character and quality of the Project Site; however, these impacts would be temporary. Components of the Project include public amenities such as lighting along with the construction of a new fish passage structure. These components would keep with the character of the area as well as upgrade the existing visual character by removing debris once construction is complete. The Project will not introduce buildings, structures, or other features. The Project would not substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of public views of the site and its surroundings. Therefore, the impact to the existing visual character would be less-than- significant. d)Would the Project create a new source of substantial light or glare which would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area? The Project would not create a new permanent source of light or glare that would adversely affect day or nighttime views. No reflective surfaces would be installed by the Project. Lighting such as low-intensity outdoor lights that are directed and shielded downward to prevent light from Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 28 emanating will be included as part of the public amenities components would be a new source of light, however, it would not be substantial and would keep with the character of the area. Construction activities are expected to take place during daylight hours only and thus, no nighttime lighting would be needed. If unforeseen circumstances necessitate night work, it would be temporary and require approval by the Resident Engineer who will be available to address any concerns. Therefore, the impact would be less-than-significant. Sources of Information California Department of Transportation. 2019. List of Eligible and Officially Designated Scenic Highways. Website: https://dot.ca.gov/programs/design/lap-landscape- architecture-and-community-livability/lap-liv-i-scenic-highways. Accessed January 6, 2023. Contra Costa County. 2005. Contra Costa County General Plan 2005-2020. Chapter 9. Open Space Element, Chapter 5. Transportation and Circulation Element. Website: https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/4732/General-Plan. Accessed January 6, 2023. FlowWest. 2024. Wildcat Fish Passage Implementation Project 90% Design. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 29 Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 2.AGRICULTURAL AND FOREST RESOURCES – Would the Project: a)Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance (Farmland), as shown on the maps prepared pursuant to the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California Resources Agency, to non-agricultural use? b)Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a Williamson Act contract? c)Conflict with existing zoning for, or cause rezoning of, forest land (as defined in Public Resources Code section 12220(g), timberland (as defined by Public Resources Code section 4526), or timberland zoned Timberland Production (as defined by Government Code section 51104(g)? a)Result in the loss of forest land or conversion of forest land to non-forest use? e)Involve other changes in the existing environment, which due to their location or nature, could result in conversion of farmland, to non-agricultural use? AGRICULTURAL AND FOREST RESOURCES SUMMARY a)Would the Project convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance (Farmland), as shown on the maps prepared pursuant to the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California Resources Agency, to non-agricultural use? The Project would not affect any locally or statewide important farmland. According to the California Department of Conservation Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program (DOC 2018), there is no farmland in the Project area, and the area is not currently used for agricultural purposes. Since the area immediately adjacent to the Project consists of roadways and residential, commercial, and industrial properties, the entire project area is designated as Urban and Built-Up Land. Therefore, there would be no impact. b)Would the Project conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a Williamson Act contract? The Project would not conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use or a Williamson Act contract. The Project area is zoned as Planned Unit and Open Space District. There is no farmland in the Project area, and the land is not under a Williamson Act contract. Therefore, there would be no impact. c)Would the Project conflict with existing zoning for, or cause rezoning of, forest land (as defined in Public Resources Code section 12220(g), timberland (as defined by Public Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 30 Resources Code section 4526), or timberland zoned Timberland Production (as defined by Government Code section 51104(g) or conflict with existing zoning for, or cause rezoning of, forest land (as defined in Public Resources Code section 12220(g), timberland (as defined by Public Resources Code section 4526), or timberland zoned Timberland Production (as defined by Government Code section 51104(g)? The Project would not conflict with existing zoning or cause rezoning of forest land or timberland. The Project area is zoned as Planned Unit and Open Space District. There is no forestland, or land zoned for timberland production in the Project area. Therefore, there would be no impact. d)Would the Project involve or result in the loss of forest land or conversion of forest land to non-forest use? The Project would not result in the loss of forest land or conversion of forest land to non-forest use. There is no forestland, or land zoned for timberland production in the Project area. Therefore, there would be no impact. e)Would the Project involve other changes in the existing environment, which due to their location or nature, could result in conversion of farmland, to non-agricultural use? The Project would not convert farmland to non-agricultural use because there is no farmland in the Project area, and the area is not used for agriculture. Therefore, there would be no impact. Sources of Information California Department of Conservation. 2018. Division of Land Resource Protection, Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program. Contra Costa County Important Farmland. Contra Costa County. 2023. CCMAP. Website: https://ccmap.cccounty.us/Html5/index.html?viewer=CCMAP. Accessed January 2023. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 31 Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 3.AIR QUALITY – Would the Project: a)Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air quality plan? b)Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the Project region is non-attainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air quality standard? c)Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations? d)Result in other emissions (such as those leading to odors) adversely affecting a substantial number of people? ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING The Project Site is in the Northern Alameda/Western Contra Costa climatological sub-region of the Bay Area. In most parts of this sub-region, the air pollution potential is low due to the steady westerly marine wind flow. However, North Richmond is an urban environment including many residential, commercial, and industrial stationary air pollutant sources, and with freeways, high-traffic-volume roadways and railroads running through or near it. The dispersion of pollutant emissions from these local sources is sometimes constrained by the confining terrain of the East Bay hills and by regularly occurring seasonal episodes of atmospheric stability with resultant elevated ambient pollutant concentrations. Criteria air pollutants are chemical compounds for which federal or state regulatory agencies have set ambient air quality standards to protect humans from their adverse health impacts. The major criteria air pollutants include ozone, carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and two forms of airborne particulate matter (i.e., PM10, particulates with average diameters less than 10 microns, PM2.5, those with a diameter less than 2.5 microns). The Bay Area is currently designated non-attainment for state and national ozone standards, for the state PM10 standards, and for state and national PM2.5 standards. Consequently, CEQA documents for local projects require evaluation of project ozone and its precursors (i.e., reactive organic compounds [ROG] and nitrogen oxides [NOx]) and PM10/PM2.5 emissions. Many other chemical compounds, generally termed toxic air contaminants (TACs), do not have associated ambient standards, but pose a present or potential hazard to human health through airborne exposure. This is especially the case with small-diameter particulate emissions from diesel-powered heavy trucks and construction equipment (DPM), which is the TAC responsible for 70% of California’s cumulative cancer risk from airborne TAC exposures. In the Bay Area, CEQA air quality issues are typically evaluated using the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) methodologies and significance thresholds as specified in their CEQA Air Quality Guidelines (2022). According to the Guidelines, any project would have a Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 32 significant potential for causing a local air quality problem or making a cumulatively considerable contribution to a regional air quality problem if its pollutant emissions or TAC impacts would exceed any of the thresholds presented in TABLE 2 - 1 during construction or operation. TABLE 2 - 1: CEQA AIR QUALITY SIGNIFICANCE THRESHOLDS Pollutant Construction Thresholds Operational Thresholds Average Daily Emissions (pounds/day) Average Daily Emissions (pounds/day) Annual Average Emissions (tons/year) Criteria Air Pollutants ROG 54 54 10 NOX 54 54 10 PM10 82* 82 15 PM2.5 54* 54 10 Fugitive Dust No significant impact if BAAQMD Best Management Practices (BMPs) are implemented Not Applicable Project-Level Health Risk/Hazard/PM2.5 Thresholds Excess Cancer Risk 10 per one million Chronic or Acute Hazard Index 1.0 Incremental annual average PM2.5 0.3 µg/m3 Cumulative Health Risk/Hazard/PM2.5 Thresholds (total contribution from all sources within the Project Site Zone of Influence) Excess Cancer Risk 100 per one million Chronic Hazard Index 10.0 Annual Average PM2.5 0.8 µg/m3 Notes: *PM10 and PM2.5 thresholds for construction apply only to exhaust emissions and do not include the fugitive dust component. µg/m3 = micrograms per cubic meter Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 33 AIR QUALITY SUMMARY a)Would the Project conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air quality plan? The main goals of the 2017 Clean Air Plan (prepared by the BAAQMD in cooperation with the Metropolitan Transportation Commission and the Association of Bay Area Governments) are to reduce the Bay Area’s regional air pollutant emissions, thereby continuing progress toward attaining all state and federal air quality standards and eliminating health risk disparities from air pollution exposure in all communities. The focus of the Plan’s air pollutant control measures is on the Bay Area’s largest source of ozone precursors and particulate emissions—the transportation sector. The plan includes incentives for construction equipment upgrades and other strategies to reduce emissions of construction vehicles on a plan level, though none are appliable to the Project. The Plan is based on projections of the effects that its control measures would have on future pollutant emissions and ambient air quality in the context of expected regional trends in population, transportation, housing, employment, etc. The Project would improve the existing fish ladder and sediment basin on the section of Wildcat Creek. After its construction is complete, the Project will not include any new pollutant emission sources, nor require energy from external sources or transportation resources for its operation. Thus, it would have no effect on population, transportation, housing, employment, etc. assumptions that underlie the Plan. Also, Project compliance with CEQA pollutant emission thresholds is a test of consistency with Plan air quality control strategies and noninterference with the attainment of Plan goals. As the analysis for Section III. b below demonstrates, Project construction emissions would not exceed any of the CEQA significance thresholds for the Bay Area’s nonattainment pollutants. Thus, the Project would not conflict with or obstruct implementation of the 2017 Clean Air Plan, and the impact would be less-than-significant. b)Would the Project result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the Project region is in non-attainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air quality standard? The Bay Area is currently a designated nonattainment for the state 1-hour and 8-hour ozone standards, the federal 8-hour ozone standard, the state PM10 24-hour and annual standards, the state PM2.5 annual standard, and the federal PM2.5 24-hour standard. The CEQA Air Quality Guidelines recommend quantification of project construction-related and operational air pollutants using the California Emissions Estimator Model (CalEEMod). Emissions were estimated for project construction sources using CalEEMod’s internal construction equipment emission rates as applied to the equipment and construction phasing data. For the purposes of this analysis, it was assumed that the Project’s main construction phases would occur from June through October 2024 and last for 125 project days and that daily average trips of haul truck activity would be spread evenly over this period. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 34 Project construction emission estimates and their comparison with the CEQA significance thresholds are shown in TABLE 2 - 2. TABLE 2 - 2: AVERAGE DAILY CONSTRUCTION EMISSIONS WITH COMPARISON TO BAAQMD THRESHOLDS Project Phase ROG NOx PM10 (Exhaust) PM2.5 (Exhaust) 1. Site Preparation 3.6 27.1 1.1 1.0 2.Sediment Removal 1.7 13.6 0.6 0.6 3a. Fish Passage Structure Modifications 0.4 12.9 0.2 0.2 3b. Sediment Basin Expansion and Modifications 3.2 33.5 1.1 1.0 3c. Flood Control Channel Modifications 1.3 20.6 0.5 0.5 3d. Community Amenities 2.8 32.2 1.0 0.9 4.Site Clean-Up/Revegetation 0.5 13.6 0.2 0.2 Highest Daily Average (including phase overlap) 3.6 36.3 1.3 1.2 CEQA Construction Emissions Threshold 54 54 82 54 Significant Impact? No No No No CalEEMod (Version 2022.1) User's Guide Appendix G lists all the numerical values in the model database used to calculate project criteria and GHG pollutant emissions. Diesel-powered construction equipment emission factors from the OFFROAD model and on-road motor vehicle emission rates from EMFAC2021 (the CARB's EPA-approved motor vehicle emission model) for haul trucks and worker commute vehicles were used along with project-specific equipment type/number and truck/worker commute trips to estimate project construction emissions by Excel spreadsheet. Project construction emissions of nonattainment pollutants from off-road equipment, trucks and worker commute vehicles would not exceed any of the CEQA significance thresholds. Thus, the impact from project construction emissions would be less-than-significant. Although no mitigation is required, the BAAQMD recommends implementing basic construction measures for all projects regardless of emissions. Therefore, although there is no significant impact to further reduce emissions, implementation of Mitigation Measure AQ-1 would include BAAQMD-recommended measures for the control of short-term emissions and basic fugitive dust best management practices (BMPs). Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 35 The Project would not add any new operational sources of nonattainment pollutant emissions, nor require energy from external sources or transportation resources for its operation. Thus, net new Project operational emissions would be zero and have no impact. c)Would the Project expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations? The CEQA Air Quality Guidelines establish a relevant “zone of influence” for an assessment of Project-level and cumulative health risk from TAC exposure to an area within 1,000 feet of a Project Site. There are three BAAQMD- permitted stationary emissions sources within the Project Site’s zone (as shown online in the BAAQMD’s Stationary Source Screening Map). A database of the impacts of the Bay Area’s mobile TAC emissions on regional health risks/hazards is also available online (BAAQMD, Mobile Source Screening Map); it shows the health risks of TACs from local motor vehicle traffic and railroad activity. For the latter, two railroad lines pass very close to the Project Site –UPRR running adjacent to the Project Site eastern boundary and the BNSF parallel to it and a few hundred feet farther to the east. The closest existing TAC-sensitive uses to the Project Site are the existing Verde Elementary School adjacent to and west of the Project Site, and the existing residential uses just across Wildcat Creek and south of the site. Although Project construction is expected to start in Summer 2025, when students will not be present at the existing school, it is expected to continue for about 6 months. Thus, students will be present at the existing school for part of the Project construction period with potential exposure to TACs emitted by construction equipment from the active on-site areas. The cancer risk from exposure to a particular TAC is the probability of developing cancer from lifetime exposure (i.e., 70 years). Following health risk assessment methodology established by the BAAQMD, the Project’s incremental cancer risk from DPM emitted by construction equipment was estimated by applying established DPM toxicity factors to the DPM concentration estimated by the SCREEN3 model at the school receptor adjacent to the Project Site. Also, in accordance with BAAQMD methodology, the likelihood of non-cancer adverse chronic health risk from exposure to a particular TAC is measured using a chronic hazard index (CHI), which is defined as the ratio of a project’s incremental annual TAC concentration to a published reference exposure level for the particular TAC of interest. If the CHI is greater than 1.0, then the impact is considered to be significant. The Project’s CHI from DPM emitted by construction equipment was estimated relative to the established REL for DPM. Virtually all of the Project construction equipment PM2.5 is DPM, for which Project-level and cumulative annual ambient concentration thresholds have been set by the BAAQMD. TABLE 2 - 3 shows the project construction cancer risk, chronic hazard index, and PM2.5 increments, and the contribution of increments from other local TAC sources within the zone of influence. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 36 TABLE 2 - 3: PROJECT AND CUMULATIVE TAC IMPACTS ON EXISTING MAXIMUM EXPOSED SENSITIVE RECEPTORS ON THE PROJECT SITE AND IN ITS VICINITY BAAQMD Source # Facility Address Cancer Risk Chronic Hazard Index PM2.5 Concentration From Local Permitted Stationary Sources* 10603 R&K Industrial Products 1945 N 7th Street 0.15 0.001 0.036 17254 Professional Finishing 770 Market Avenue 0.00 0.007 0.011 23619 Pick-n-Pull Auto 1015 Market Avenue 0.009 0 0 From Local Major Mobile Sources** On-Road Motor Vehicles 12.46 0.036 0.260 Railroads 34.78 0.009 0.142 From Project Construction Sources*** Project Construction TAC Impacts 1.60 0.02 0.08 Project-Level Significance Thresholds 10 1.0 0.3 Significant Project Construction Impact? No No No From Cumulative Sources Cumulative Sources TAC Impact 49.00 0.07 0.53 Cumulative Significance Thresholds 100 10 0.8 Significant Cumulative Impact? No No No *The BAAQMD’s Stationary Source Screening Map was used to estimate the maximum cancer risk, hazard index, and PM2.5 levels on/near the Project Site. ** BAAQMD’s Mobile Source Screening Map was used to estimate risk, hazard and PM2.5 levels; the table entries are the average values that the BAAQMD contour maps show on/near the Project Site. ***project construction cancer risk, chronic hazard and PM2.5 increments were estimated by the SCREEN3 dispersion model using project construction equipment PM2.5 emission estimates from the CalEEMod model. Project operational cancer risk, chronic hazard and PM2.5 levels are not expected to increase since no new operational TAC sources would be introduced by the Project; consequently, post-Project stationary- and mobile- source TAC emissions would be at or near their present levels. The major influences on local cumulative health risk are from DPM and other TACs emitted by local motor vehicle traffic and local train operations on the adjacent railroad lines east of the Project Site. However, as shown in Table 2-3 above, the cumulative totals of health risk levels would not exceed the CEQA cumulative significance thresholds, and the Project’s relatively small increments (i.e., about 3% of the existing background from TACs emitted by diesel-powered equipment during the six months of Project construction) would be temporary. Thus, no sensitive receptors within the Project Site’s zone of influence would experience substantial TAC exposures. However, construction activities would result in localized emissions of dust and diesel exhaust that could result in temporary impacts to sensitive receptors (e.g., nearby residences, schools) from the Project Site. The BAAQMD recommends implementing basic construction measures for all projects regardless of emissions. Therefore, to further reduce emissions, implementation of Mitigation Measure Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 37 AQ-1 would include BAAQMD-recommended measures for the control of short-term emissions and basic fugitive dust best management practices (BMPs) to assure that ambient particulate standards are not exceeded at local sensitive receptors during project construction. With implementation of Mitigation Measure AQ-1, temporary impacts during construction would be less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. Once completed, the Project’s recreational components bring in an additional 20 cars per week from the local community. Existing bi-annual inspections and maintenance of the sediment basin would continue as necessary and would likely be less frequent with the Project improvements. Thus, project impacts from ongoing recreational and maintenance activities would be less-than-significant. Impact AQ-1: The Project would generate localized emission of dust and diesel exhaust that could temporarily impact sensitive receptors. MITIGATION MEASURE AQ-1: Implement BAAQMD Basic Construction Best Management Practices: 1)All exposed surfaces (e.g., parking areas, staging areas, soil piles, graded areas, and unpaved access roads) shall be watered two times per day. 2)All haul trucks transporting soil, sand, or other loose material off-site shall be covered. 3)All visible mud or dirt track-out onto adjacent public roads shall be removed using wet power vacuum street sweepers at least once per day. The use of dry power sweeping is prohibited. 4)All vehicle speeds on unpaved roads shall be limited to 15 mph. 5)All roadways, driveways, and sidewalks to be paved shall be completed as soon as possible. 6)Idling times shall be minimized either by shutting equipment off when not in use or reducing the maximum idling time to 5 minutes (as required by the California airborne toxics control measure Title 13, Section 2485 of California Code of Regulations [CCR]). Clear signage shall be provided for construction workers at all access points. 7)All construction equipment shall be maintained and properly tuned in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications. All equipment shall be checked by a certified mechanic and determined to be running in proper condition prior to operation. 8)Post a publicly visible sign with the telephone number and contact information for the designated on-site construction manager available to receive and respond to dust complaints. This person shall report all complaints to Contra Costa County and take immediate corrective action as soon as practicable but not more than 48 hours after the complaint is received. The BAAQMD’s phone number shall also be visible to ensure compliance with applicable regulations. d)Would the Project result in other emissions (such as those leading to odors) adversely affecting a substantial number of people? The Project’s diesel-powered construction equipment is a recognized source of odorous emissions. But during the approximately six months of project construction activity, the equipment would be Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 38 distributed over a working area of about 10 acres with an average distance of several hundred feet separating equipment working locations from school/residential sensitive receptors. But with the idling time limitations and maintenance requirements imposed by the included BMPs, any construction- related odor emissions would intermittently affect only a few receptors at a time at Verde Elementary School and adjacent residences south of Wildcat Creek during short periods of work when the equipment is close to them. Thus, project construction odor impacts would be less-than-significant. Sources of Information Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD). California Environmental Quality Act Air Quality Guidelines (2022).Website: https://www.baaqmd.gov/plans-and-climate/california- environmental-quality-act-ceqa/updated-ceqa-guidelines BAAQMD. CEQA Thresholds of Significance (2023). Website: https://www.baaqmd.gov/~/media/files/planning-and-research/ceqa/ceqa-guidelines- 2022/ceqa-guidelines-chapter-3-thresholds_final_v2- pdf.pdf?rev=a976830cce0c4a6bb624b020f72d25b3&sc_lang=en BAAQMD. 2017 Clean Air Plan: Spare the Air, Cool the Climate. Website: https://www.baaqmd.gov/plans-and-climate/air-quality-plans/current-plans BAAQMD. Recommended Methods for Screening and Modeling Local Risks and Hazards (2023). Website: https://www.baaqmd.gov/~/media/files/planning-and-research/ceqa/ceqa-guidelines- 2022/appendix-e-recommended-methods-for-screening-and-modeling-local-risks-and- hazards_final-pdf.pdf?rev=b8917a27345a4a629fc18fc8650951e4&sc_lang=en BAAQMD, Health Risk Screening and Modeling: Stationary Source Screening Map. Website: https://baaqmd.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=845658c19eae4594b9f4b 805fb9d89a3 BAAQMD, Health Risk Screening and Modeling: Mobile Source Screening Map. Website: https://mtc.maps.arcgis.com/apps/instant/sidebar/index.html?appid=c5f9b1a40326409a89076b dc0d95e429 California Air Resources Board (CARB). Overview: Diesel Exhaust & Health. Website: https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/overview-diesel-exhaust-and-health California Air Pollution Control Officers Association (CAPCOA). California Emissions Estimator Model (CalEEMod, Version 2022.1). Website: https://www.caleemod.com Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 39 Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 4.BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES – Would the Project: a)Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? b)Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, and regulations or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? c)Have a substantial adverse effect on state or federally protected wetlands (including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other means? d)Interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of wildlife nursery sites? e)Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance? f)Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan? BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES SUMMARY a)Would the Project have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? An 1,800-foot-long segment of Wildcat Creek bisects the Project Site: from the upstream (eastern) extent of the Project Site at Rumrill Boulevard the open creek flows west through the concrete-lined fish passage structure and through the earthen sediment basin to the downstream (western) extent at Giaramita Street. Beyond the Project Site, Wildcat Creek continues to flow west for approximately 4.8 miles and empties into salt marshes adjacent to San Pablo Bay. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 40 A biological resource assessment of the Project Site, called the Biological Study Area (BSA), was conducted in February 2022 (FlowWest, 2022). The assessment included background review of literature and databases (see Table 2-2 for CNDDB results), reconnaissance-level field surveys for special-status wildlife and plant species, and a wetland delineation was conducted on October 2022 (Vollmar Natural Lands Consulting, 2022). The Project Site is a highly modified area that is characterized by more than 90 percent non-native vegetation. Land cover types within the 13.3 acre BSA include: Developed: Approximately 2.2% (0.3 acres) of the BSA consists of the concrete fish passage structure, which is comprised of concrete and engineered riprap. Ruderal grassland: Approximately 60.5% (8.1 acres) of the BSA is ruderal grassland, which occurs in the upland area to the north of the sediment basin. A portion of this area will be used as staging area during construction, and is used by the District as a corporation yard. Grasslands consist of mostly non-native species including predominately rip-gut brome (Bromus diandrus). There are a several isolated trees, including a large Fremont cottonwood (Populus fremontii). Riparian wetland: Approximately 8.8% (1.2 acres) of the BSA is riparian woodland, associated with the south side of Wildcat Creek and the sediment basin, running for approximately 1,500 feet downstream of the concrete channel. Riparian trees include arroyo willow (Salix lasiolepis), sandbar willow (Salix exigua), non-native or hybrid black walnut (Juglans hindsii), Oregon ash (Fraxinus latifolia), box elder (Acer negundo) and valley oak (Quercus lobata). Understory species include Himalayan blackberry (Rubus armeniacus), curly dock (Rumex crispus), poison hemlock (Conium maculatum), chicory (Cichorium intybus) and smooth cocklebur (Xanthium strumarium). On the south bank outside of the sediment basin is a mixed riparian woodland composed of willows (Salix laevigata), with occasional Fremont cottonwood (Populus fremontii), and white alder (Alnus rhombifolia). Riparian Woodland: Riparian trees, both in isolation and in groups, were mapped in 13.1% (1.7 acres) of the Project Site. These areas consist of riparian trees that are at higher elevations than the riparian wetlands mapped along the south side of the sediment basin. On the north side of the sediment basin and on the banks of the sediment basin are several isolated trees, including a non-native weeping willow (Salix babylonica), Fremont cottonwood, and coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia). Wetlands and seasonal creek: Approximately 15.5% (2.1 acres) of wetland habitat (seasonal creek, perennial marsh, and seasonal wetland) exists in the Project Site, primarily located within the sediment basin, and along segments of Wildcat Creek. Further details are described in Section IV.c below. The riparian woodlands, wetlands, and seasonal creek are considered environmentally sensitive areas (ESA) and provide suitable habitats for 11 special-status wildlife species and one special-status plant species that have the potential to occur in the BSA listed in TABLE 2 - 4 below. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 41 TABLE 2 - 4: SPECIAL STATUS SPECIES POTENTIALLY OCCURRING IN THE BSA Common Name (Species Name) Listing Status Plants Fragrant fritillary (Fritillaria liliacea) California Rare Plant Rank as 1B.2 Animals Western bumble bee (Bombus occidentalis) Not state or federally listed Central California Coastal Steelhead, Southern Distinct Population (DPS) (Oncorhynchus mykiss) Federally threatened Green Sturgeon, Southern DPS (Acipenser medirostris) California Species of Special Concern/Federally Threatened Western pond turtle (Clemmys marmorata) California Species of Special Concern Hoary bat (Lasiurus cinereus) California Special Animal* Black-crowned Night-heron (Nycticorax nycticorax) CDFW Watch List Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia) Federal Birds of Conservation Concern/California Species of Special Concern Cooper’s Hawk (Accipiter cooperii) CDFW Watch List Double-crested Cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus) CDFW Watch List Northern Harrier (Circus cyaneus) California Species of Special Concern Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) CDFW Watch List Short-eared Owl (Asio flammeus) California Species of Special Concern Snowy egret (Egretta thula) California Special Animal* White-tailed Kite (Elanus leucurus) California Fully Protected Species *“Special Animals” is a general term that refers to all of the taxa the CNDDB is interested in tracking, regardless of their legal or protection status. This list is also referred to as the list of “species at risk” or “special status species”. The Department of Fish and Wildlife considers the taxa on this list to be those of greatest conservation need. Heavy equipment operation and associated noise, creek and wetland disturbance, dust from ground disturbance including grading and excavation, and an increase in human presence have the potential to disrupt special status wildlife species and their habitats, and to introduce new invasive species to the site. Wildcat Creek and the associated sediment basin are expected to be dry during sediment removal and excavation for basin expansion, however sediment mobilization could potentially affect water quality and other fish habitat downstream of the Project Site. As further discussed in Section b (below), there will be temporary and permanent impacts to riparian habitat that occur from riparian tree removal and construction of other project elements, including the training berms and platforms and expansion of the basin. Mitigation Measures BIO-1 through BIO-3 would lessen impacts to all species and their habitat, however, specific species measures are discussed further below. Impact BIO-1: The Project area contains habitat for special status species and other protected species that could be affected by Project implementation. The following general mitigation measures (MMs) will avoid and minimize general impact to all special status species. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 42 MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-1: General Construction-related Mitigation Measures The following best management practices/avoidance and minimization measures would be used for protection of the biological resources within the BSA. 1.Worker Environmental Awareness Training (WEAT): Prior to the start of construction in each year, construction personnel shall be trained by a qualified biologist on all required avoidance and minimization measures as well as permit requirements. 2.Preconstruction surveys for all special status and common wildlife species shall be conducted within the Project area by a qualified biologist immediately prior to equipment or material staging, pruning/grubbing, or surface-disturbing activities. The qualified biologist shall search aquatic vegetation, the water’s surface, leaf litter, logs, snags, and other habitat features for special status and common wildlife species. If species are found, individuals shall be relocated outside of the Project area if the qualified biologist is permitted to do so by all regulatory agencies and determines that relocation is warranted. Although not expected, this includes dewatering activities. If water diversion systems are implemented, a qualified biologist shall be on site to relocate all fish, turtles, invertebrates, and other wildlife observed outside of the work area. 3.Prior to start of construction, temporary high visibility ESA fence shall be placed at the upstream and downstream ends of the Project Site and placed along the southern riparian area to exclude the ESA. The limits shall be staked by a qualified biologist. 4.The District shall require the contractor to prepare a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) for construction activities according to the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Construction General Permit as required under Section 402 of the Clean Water Act. The SWPPP shall identify water pollution control measures and construction- waste containment measures to be implemented during and after project construction, including but not limited to: o Trash generated by the Project shall be promptly and properly removed from the site daily. o Appropriate erosion control measures (e.g., fiber rolls, filter fences, hydroseeding of exposed soils, and mulching) shall be used on site to reduce siltation and runoff of contaminants into jurisdictional waters. Filter fences and mesh shall be of material that shall not entrap reptiles and amphibians. Fiber rolls shall not contain plastics of any kind. Erosion control blankets shall be used as a last resort because of their tendency to biodegrade slowly and to trap reptiles and amphibians. o No erodible materials shall be deposited into watercourses. Brush, loose soils, or other debris material shall not be stockpiled within stream channels or adjacent to the basin. o Active construction areas shall be watered regularly. o Dredged sediments shall be managed during construction. o A hazardous materials management plan will describe the actions that shall be taken in the event of a spill that could potentially impact jurisdictional waters. Adequate spill containment materials, such as hazardous material absorbent pads and similar materials, shall be available on site at all times. The plan also shall incorporate preventive measures to be implemented (such as vehicle and equipment staging, cleaning, maintenance, and refueling) and contaminant (including fuel) management and storage. 5.All excavated steep-walled holes and trenches more than six inches deep shall be covered with plywood (or similar material) or provided with one or more escape ramps constructed of earth fill or wooden planks at the end of each work-day or 30 minutes prior to sunset, whichever occurs first. All steep-walled holes and trenches shall be inspected by the approved biologist each morning to ensure that no turtles or other wildlife has become entrapped. All construction pipes, culverts, similar structures, construction equipment, and construction debris left Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 43 overnight shall be inspected for presence of wildlife by a WEAT-trained construction monitor prior to being moved. 6.All slash materials (limbs, branches, and other woody debris) resulting from tree removal activities shall be removed from the Project Site and properly disposed of at an off-site location. 7.Temporarily affected areas shall be restored to pre-Project conditions. Before October 31 and/or immediately after construction is complete, all exposed soils shall be stabilized to reduce the effects of erosion. Impact BIO-2: There is a potential for the project to accidentally introduce invasive species into the Project Site during construction. MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-2: Invasive Species Prevention 1.Only certified noxious weed-free erosion control materials shall be used. All straw and seed material shall be certified as weed-free prior to being used at the Project Site. 2.Contractor shall wash all construction equipment prior to bringing it onto the job site. Inspection shall ensure that equipment arrives on site free of mud and seed-bearing material. 3.Any reseeding of disturbed soil areas and newly constructed slopes shall use an appropriate native seed mix as specified in the plans and specifications. Impact BIO-3: The Project area contains riparian habitat that would be temporarily and permanently impacted by construction. MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-3: Riparian Vegetation Protection 1.A riparian protection zone shall be established around all established vegetation in the southern portion of the existing sediment basin, coincident with the most recent sediment clearing boundary, with the exception of those trees and soil necessary to remove for building the training berm. This boundary would be established on design sheets and plan sets, as well as with protective temporary fencing placed in the field. 2.A qualified restoration biologist or botanist shall create a seed and plant palette appropriate for reestablishing impacted vegetation. Special Status Plant Species Fragrant fritillary (Fritillaria liliacea) The BRA identified one special-status plant species that has potential to occur in and around the BSA, the fragrant fritillary, which are listed under the California Rare Plant Rank as 1B.2 (rare, threatened, or endangered in California or elsewhere). Fragrant fritillary are documented within five miles of the Project Site (CNDDB 2022). Fragrant fritillary typically occur in open hilly grasslands. Habitat in the BSA is very poor and dominated by non-native annual grasses, however there is marginally suitable habitat upslope of the sediment basin. Fragrant fritillary was not observed during the BSA survey. The blooming period for this species is between February and April, and the BSA survey was conducted in late-February (CNPS 2023). There would be no decrease in the suitable habitat area along the sediment basin in which fragrant fritillary could be established. Although access ramps and training berms would be constructed, the operation of the sediment would not change. The expanded sediment basin’s slopes would be re-seeded with a native grass mix after construction but would remain in a similar condition as marginally suitable habitat for fragrant fritillary. Therefore, construction and Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 44 operation of the Project would have no direct or indirect impact through destruction of habitat for fragrant fritillary. FIGURE 2 – 1: CNDDB RESULTS WITHIN 5 MILES OF THE PROJECT SITE Special Status Wildlife Species Project construction could potentially impact the following special status wildlife species. Western bumble bee (Bombus occidentalis) Western bumble bee is a candidate species for federal listing. There are four CNDDB reports occurrences within five miles of the BSA, however, all of them are records of collections that occurred more than 50 years ago. There have been no recent verified observations of western bumble bee in Contra Costa County. Due to bees moving from patches, there is a low possibility that the Western bumble bee could be present on the Project Site. Habitat in the BSA is very poor, not providing feeding or reproduction sites necessary. The disturbance of the sediment basin itself and its northern banks and slopes could disturb bee and bee habitat. Additionally, although no focused surveys have been conducted to date, the site is within the range for the species, and the annual grassland areas with small mammal burrows provide potentially suitable underground nesting habitat. Impacts to western bumblebee habitat will be minimized and/or avoided by restoration of temporarily impacted areas with native plants, and through implementation Mitigation Measure BIO-4: Western Bumble Bee Mitigation Measures, the impact would be less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. IMPACT BIO-4: The Project could impact western bumble bee, if present in the BSA during construction. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 45 MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-4: Western Bumble Bee Mitigation Measures 1.Preconstruction Survey: A qualified biologist shall conduct a preconstruction survey 30 days prior to the onset of work. The pre-construction survey effort shall be conducted for a minimum of one hour. If bumble bees of any species are observed, they shall be photographed for identification following the USFWS guidance in Standardized Bee Photography in the Survey Protocols for the Rusty Patched Bumble Bee (Bombus affinis) (USFWS 2019). If construction begins between March 1 and November 1, the ground shall also be searched during the survey for active bumble bee colonies. 2.No capture or handling of bumble bees is allowed without formal State take authorization. If individual western bumble bees are observed during preconstruction surveys, in consultation with CDFW, they shall be avoided to ensure no “take” occurs. This may require biological monitoring or avoidance buffers until the bees have left the work area. If western bumble bee colonies are identified, these colonies shall be demarcated with a flagged avoidance buffer, as determined by a qualified biologist and shall be avoided during the active season from March 1 through November 1, or until the qualified biologist, in consultation with CDFW, has determined that the colony is no longer active. All sightings of western bumble bee shall be reported to the CNDDB. Fish Two special status fish species were determined to occur or have critical habitat in the Project area: Central California Coast Distinct Population Segment (DPS) steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss irideus), which is federally listed as a threatened species and is the anadromous form of rainbow trout, and Green Sturgeon Southern DPS (Acipenser medirostris), which is listed as a Threatened species under the Federal Endangered Species Act and is categorized as a state Species of Special Concern. For the CCC DPS steelhead, designated critical habitat includes the drainages of San Francisco and San Pablo Bays (Federal Register, 2000). Though CCC Steelhead have not been documented in Wildcat Creek, resident populations of rainbow trout occur in the upper watershed (which could develop anadromy), and rare occurrences of other salmonids have been documented in Wildcat Creek (only one salmonid has been documented in this area of Wildcat Creek in 10 years, which was likely a stray hatchery Chinook salmon) (Pers. Comm. NMFS 2022). Green Sturgeon have not been documented in Wildcat Creek but have critical habitat designated downstream in the San Francisco Bay (NMFS, 2009). The 1996 Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act established essential fish habitat provisions to identify and protect important habitats of federally managed marine and anadromous fisheries. The act requires consultation with NMFS regarding the potential impacts on essential fish habitat of federal agency actions. If consultation with NMFS identifies this part of Wildcat Creek has essential fish habitat, the Project will comply with the conditions of the restoration Programmatic Biological Opinion so that the Project will not result in adverse effects to any essential fish habitat. The Project area may provide a migration corridor for the salmonids and green sturgeon. However, Wildcat Creek is degraded in the Project area. The fish passage structure and basin are filled with sediment, and individual fish may occasionally use the Project area as a migration corridor during high-flows only during rare occasions when passage is possible through the current concrete structure between September and March. The Project is designed to provide passage during a wider range of flows. The Project would involve work within Wildcat Creek and the associated basin. This work would occur from June 1st through October 31st, when water is usually not present in the channel and outside of the spawning season and would therefore not present a barrier to fish passage. The lack of water during the construction window means that no fish would be present during construction, either adults Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 46 or juveniles. Even if water were present due to an exceptionally wet year or a dry season storm, the temperature ranges in this part of the watershed would not be suitable habitat for spawning or rearing. The Project would improve fish passage through this part of the creek and would not change the character or composition of the substrate through this section of the creek and sediment basin. The creek currently provides poor substrate and cover for salmonids. By preserving the southern riparian area, the Project would not negatively impact the cover conditions through the sediment basin. Some trees located on the northern part of the sediment basin would be removed, though this is an area which does not provide adequate cover for rearing. These impacts would be less-than-significant. To lessen these potential impacts, mitigation measures for fish would be followed during construction as part of Mitigation Measure BIO-5. IMPACT BIO-5: Special status fish and other species could be affected by Project activities in the channel and sediment basin. The following general mitigation measures will lessen the impact to all special status species. MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-5: Best Management Practices for Fish The Project shall limit in-water construction to the period between June 1 and October 31 to avoid the spawning season. The Project proponent shall obtain and comply with the requirements of the Section 404 permit issued by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Programmatic Biological Opinion for steelhead issued by National Marine Fisheries Service. Western pond turtle (Clemmys marmorata) The Western pond turtle is a California Species of Special Concern. There is one CNDDB report occurrences within five miles of the BSA. It is an aquatic turtle that utilizes ponds, marshes, rivers, streams and irrigation ditches with aquatic vegetation. They prefer deep (great than two feet), quiet pools along streams. Important habitat features include basking sites and suitable upland habitat for egg-laying (sandy banks or grassy open fields adjacent to aquatic habitat). The riparian corridor has features that could serve as habitat for the Western Pond Turtle. Therefore, although they were not observed during the field survey, they could potentially occur on the Project Site. If western pond turtle adults, young, or their nests are present during construction, they could be harmed by construction activities. In particular, work in the sediment basin and on its banks could result in direct impacts to individuals and nests. To address these impacts, pre-construction surveys for western pond turtles and installation of temporary high visibility ESA fence would be conducted as part of Mitigation Measure BIO-1: General Construction-related Mitigation. Monitoring and CDFW consultation, would be done as part of Mitigation Measure BIO-6: Construction Monitoring for Western Pond Turtles. If any western pond turtle individuals are observed within a construction zone during the preconstruction surveys or construction monitoring, the individual will be relocated out of harm’s way according to permit conditions. With implementation of Mitigation Measures BIO-1 and BIO-6, the impact would be less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. IMPACT BIO-6: The Project could impact western pond turtle, if present in the BSA during construction. MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-6: Construction Monitoring for Western Pond Turtles 1.If any turtles or turtle nests are found during preconstruction surveys, a qualified and permitted biologist shall flag the site and determine whether construction activities can avoid Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 47 affecting the nest. If the nest cannot be avoided, in consultation with CDFW, a no-disturbance buffer zone may be established around the nest until the young have left the nest. If weather conditions prevent implementation of construction beyond two days after completion of turtle surveys, re-survey for this species shall be completed. 2.Once a temporary high visibility ESA fence is installed within the Project Site and all vegetation has been cleared, a designated construction monitor (trained by the qualified biologist), shall inspect the work area for western pond turtles anytime work activity ceases for two days or more. If a western pond turtle is observed by the construction monitor in the immediate work area, no work shall commence in the area of the sighting until the turtle has moved out of harm’s way or the qualified biologist has arrived at the site and relocated the turtle. Birds Several sensitive or locally rare bird species were determined to have the potential to nest, roost, or forage within the Project area. Black-crowned Night-heron (Nycticorax nycticorax) Black-crowned night-herons, which are on the CDFW Watch List, do not have any CNDDB recorded occurrences. Suitable habitat within the Project Site includes potential nesting habitat in the southern riparian area. Rookery sites are located adjacent to foraging areas including lake margins, mud- bordered bays and marshy spots. Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia) Burrowing owls, which are a species of special concern, have reported one CNDDB reports occurrences within five miles of the BSA. These occurrences in the vicinity are overwintering, rather than breeding, as this species breeds between February and August. Suitable habitat is present in the open ruderal vegetation of the Project Site, however no suitable burrowing owl burrows were observed during the site visit. Cooper’s Hawk (Accipter cooperii) Cooper’s Hawks nest primarily in deciduous riparian forests and forage in open woodlands. Double-crested Cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus) Double-crested Cormorants are colonial nesters on coastal cliffs, offshore islands, and along lake margins in the interior of California. This species nest along the coast on sequestered islets, usually on the ground with sloping surfaces, or in tall trees along lake margins. This species may occur on the Project Site, particularly in the tall trees adjacent to the sediment basin. Northern Harrier (Circus cyaneus) Habitat for the Northern Harrier, which are a special status species, have been reported once in CNDDB reports occurrences within five miles of the BSA. Although Northern Harrier were not observed during the site visit, they nest and forage in grasslands and shrubby vegetation, usually at the edge of marshes. Therefore, there is suitable habitat present along the sediment basin and this species may occur on the Project Site year-round Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) Osprey breed in northern California from the Cascade Ranges south to Lake Tahoe, and along the coast south to the Bay Area. Associated strictly with large, fish-bearing waters, they are primarily in Ponderosa pine through mixed conifer habitats. Osprey are common around major Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 48 estuaries and salt marshes and large lakes/rivers. Though unlikely, the proximity to the San Francisco Bay of the Project Site means that this species may occur on the Project Site. Snowy Egret (Egretta thula) Snowy egrets are categorized as a California Special Animal. They are colonial nesters with nest sites situated in protected beds of dense tules. Rookery sites are situated close to foraging areas. Found in marshes, tidal-flats, streams, wet meadows, and borders of lakes. Though no tules are present and thus no suitable nesting habitat, foraging habitat exists on the Project Site for the Snowy egret. Short-eared Owl (Asio flammeus) Short-eared Owls are found in both freshwater and saltwater marshes, lowland meadows, and irrigated alfalfa fields. Short-eared owls nest and seclude themselves during the daytime in tule patches and full grass. Short-eared owls nest on dry ground in depressions concealed in vegetation. This species may occur on the Project Site foraging in the freshwater marsh areas and during nesting season in the ruderal grassland. White Tailed Kite (Elanus caeruleus) White Tailed kites can be found in marshes in the San Francisco Bay Area, and can nest near the top of dense willow stands (CDFW 2005). For these reasons, suitable foraging and nesting habitat exists on the Project Site in the marsh habitat and within the riparian woodlands in the south end of the sediment basin, respectively. Nesting Birds Bird and raptor species, regardless of special status listing, are protected by the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) and California Fish and Game Code Sections 3503 and 3503.5. Most existing trees and vegetation within the BSA have at least some potential to support numerous bird species and their nests. Project construction could have direct impact on nesting birds, and increased noise and human presence from project construction could result in indirect impacts on nesting birds in the BSA through modifications to behavior resulting in lower breeding success. Additionally, the removal of specific trees could impact birds if active nests are present in those trees. To address these impacts, pre-construction surveys for occurrence of special status bird species and nesting birds would be conducted as part of Mitigation Measure BIO-1: General Construction- related Mitigation Measures. General construction and prevention measures addressing impacts to nesting birds would be covered under Mitigation Measure BIO-7: Migratory Birds and Raptors Construction Measures. Therefore, the impact would be less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. IMPACT BIO-7: If migratory and other bird species (including Burrowing Owl, Cooper’s Hawk, Double-crested Cormorant, Northern Harrier, Osprey, Short-eared Owl and White-tailed Kite) nest within the Project area, the Project could result in short-term impacts such as failure to breed, nest abandonment, reduced fecundity and decreased survivorship from noise and movement of personnel and equipment that exceeds normal background conditions within the Project area. Disturbance may alter the birds’ behavior in ways that result in injury, mortality and reduced foraging success, such as the temporary loss of habitat due to avoidance of areas with intolerable levels of disturbance, and altered activity patterns. BIO-7: Migratory Birds and Raptors Construction Measures 1.To the extent feasible, tree removal shall be conducted outside the nesting season (which occurs between February 15 – August 31) for migratory birds and raptors. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 49 2.A preconstruction nesting bird survey, shall be conducted by a qualified biologist prior to construction activities that take place during the nesting season (February 15-August 31) including any removal of vegetation at the Project Site. If all Project work is conducted during this work window, preconstruction surveys would only be required for wintering burrowing owls and not nesting birds. The survey shall be conducted no more than 7 days prior to the start of construction. Buffers will be placed around any nests that are found during the survey, in consultation with CDFW. No work shall be conducted within the buffers until the qualified biologist has determined that the nesting attempt is complete. Buffers for songbird nests are generally on the order of 50 to 100 feet and for raptors on the order of 250 to 500 feet, with the precise distance determined by the qualified biologist conducting the preconstruction survey based on species, nest site characteristics, and the acclimation of the nesting birds to disturbance. 3.If Western Burrowing Owl burrows are found, a qualified biologist shall flag the site and in consultation with CDFW, determine whether construction activities can avoid affecting the nest. If the nest cannot be avoided, in consultation with CDFW, a no-disturbance buffer zone and monitoring plan would be established. Roosting Bats Within the Project Site, mature riparian trees and annual grassland may provide suitable roosting and foraging habitat for bats, including the hoary bat and other native bat species. Hoary Bat (Lasuirus cinereus), have been located once in CNDDB, however bats tend to be under-reporting in CNDDB sightings due to nocturnal activity. Hoary Bats roost in foliage under overhanging leaves, particularly in riparian woodland areas. Females raise pups solitarily or in very small groups, and may move their young among multiple roost locations. Crevice and cavity-roosting bats such as pallid bat, big brown bat (Eptesicus fuscus), and several species of myotis bats (Myotis spp.) may use any available cracks or holes in trees as roosting habitat, in addition to the bridge structures in and adjacent to the Project Site. In addition to roosting habitat, bats may forage for insects almost anywhere in the Project area. No sign of roosting bats was observed during the site visit; however, a thorough bat roost survey was not conducted. Bats could be roosting in the bridges or trees in the Project area. Project construction could have direct impact on roosting bats, and increased noise and human presence from project construction could result in indirect impacts on roosting bats in the BSA through modifications to behavior resulting in lower breeding success, including the loss or abandonment of an active roost. The removal of specific trees could impact bats if active roosts are present in those trees. However, with implementation of Mitigation Measure BIO-8: Roosting Bats and Maternity Colonies Mitigation Measures, the impact would be less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. IMPACT BIO-8: The Project could impact roosting bats, if present in the BSA during construction. MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-8: Roosting Bats and Maternity Colonies Mitigation Measures 1.Roosting bat habitat assessments and preconstruction surveys shall be conducted to ensure the absence of roosting bats before construction, as detailed below. Prior to the start of construction, a bat habitat assessment shall be conducted to identify suitable bat roosting habitat including bridges, snags, rotten stumps, and trees with broken limbs, exfoliating bark, cavities, etc. This shall be done within 30 days prior to the onset of work. Potential roosting Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 50 habitat shall be avoided to the maximum extent practicable. If no suitable roost sites are identified, no further minimization measures are necessary. 2.If suitable roosting habitat is identified and shall be disturbed by presence and noise of equipment and workers for more than two hours, a qualified biologist shall be present to monitor the bat roosting habitat and will stop work if any disturbance to bats is detected and contact CDFW for further guidance. 3.If suitable roosting habitat is identified and shall be removed by the Project, such as from tree removal, a qualified biologist shall survey potential suitable roost sites immediately prior to the removal. If any sign of roosting bats or observation of individual bats is observed, the roost shall be removed in coordination with CDFW or according to permit conditions. Typical removal methods include first removing nonhabitat features such as limbs smaller than 3 inches in diameter. The tree is left overnight to allow any bats using the tree/snag to find another roost during their nocturnal activity period. A qualified biologist would survey the trees/snags a second time the following morning prior to felling and removal. b)Would the Project have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, and regulations or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? Habitats within the Project Site that are treated as sensitive natural communities include riparian woodlands, seasonal creek, perennial marsh, seasonal wetland, and riparian wetland, as they are jurisdictional wetland features regulated by California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) under Section 1600 of the California Fish and Game Code and Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) under Section 401 of the Clean Water Act, and with the exception of the riparian woodlands, by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineer under Section 404. The Project Site includes 1.74 acres mapped as riparian woodland, and 3.23 acres of seasonal creek, perennial marsh, seasonal wetland, and riparian wetland. Temporary impacts to riparian habitat and sensitive natural communities include grubbing and vegetation removal, construction of access roads and staging areas, the removal of sediment within the existing basin, excavation of the sediment basin to expand the basin northward, reconstruction of the fish passage structure, and the removal of riprap in the channel upstream, resulting in 1.6 acres of temporary impacts to riparian habitat and sensitive natural communities. Removal of sediment from the basin and channel is expected to improve wetland habitat. The expansion of the basin would temporarily impact sensitive natural communities which will likely be converted to wetland conditions and vegetation following construction. It is expected that all of these areas would naturally re-establish with vegetation after construction, and the area will be hydro-seeded and replanted with native vegetation. Permanent impacts to riparian habitat and sensitive natural communities would result from the construction of training berms and platforms within the sediment basin and within its expansion area, from the construction of the trash deflection bollards, and construction of the community amenities, because these activities would place fill within the sediment basin, in the creek, and in the riparian habitat. The construction of the community amenities, particularly the Verde Mini Park on the western side of the Project Site would result in permanent impacts to riparian habitat. In total, the Project will result in 0.41 acres of permanent impacts. As a whole, however, this project is intended to be self- Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 51 mitigating; the Project would be beneficial to riparian habitats, and riparian plants including willows would be planted along the training berms, where the willows would have the most beneficial impact for the riparian habitat along Wildcat Creek. The impacts to riparian habitat would be permanent but not substantial due to the proposed improvements to the sediment basin, including the planting of riparian plantings and improvement of fish migration along the creek. A total of 28 trees were identified for removal within the Project boundary, of which 22 had a diameter at breast height over 4 inches. Those trees included 15 Red Willows (Salix Laevigata), 1 non- native Willow (Salix alba), 4 Cottonwood (Populus), 7 Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia) and 1 dead Alder (Alnus). However, the loss of this relatively small amount of vegetation would not have a substantial effect on the overall quality, characteristics, or structure of the approximately 2.92 acres of riparian woodland that exists within the BSA and willows are expected to readily regenerate. To minimize impacts to riparian habitat, the Project was designed to avoid permanent impacts to the riparian woodland. This was accomplished by expanding the sediment basin design to the north instead of removing all sediment within the basin’s original 1995 design footprint. Permits will be obtained from CDFW (Streambed Alteration Agreement) and RWQCB (Water Quality Certification). Permit requirements will be followed to minimize impacts to water quality and riparian habitat. Temporary and permanent impacts to riparian habitat will be minimized through implementation of Mitigation Measure BIO-3 such that their impacts would be less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. c)Would the Project have a substantial adverse effect on state or federally protected wetlands (including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other means? A wetland delineation was conducted by Vollmar Natural Lands Consulting in January of 2023. Vollmar identified the following types of wetland habitats, quantified in TABLE 2 – 5 and as shown in FIGURE 2 – 2 below. FIGURE 2 – 3 shows impacts to wetlands by Project components. TABLE 2 – 5: WETLANDS AND WATERS WITHIN THE PROJECT BOUNDARIES Wetland/Water Type Acres Temporary Impacts (Acres) Permanent Impacts (Acres) Riparian Woodland 1.74 0.30 0.21 Seasonal Creek 0.78 0.18 0.02 Perennial Marsh 0.23 0.21 0.02 Seasonal Wetland 1.04 0.89 0.13 Riparian Wetland 1.18 0.02 0.03 TOTAL 4.98 1.6 0.41 Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 52 FIGURE 2 – 2: WETLANDS AND WATERS WITHIN PROJECT BOUNDARY FIGURE 2 – 3: WETLANDS AND WATERS WITH IMPACTS BY PROJECT ELEMENT Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 53 1.6 acres of temporary impacts to wetlands and waters would occur due to sediment removal from the basin, expansion of the sediment basin, modifications to the fish passage structure, and upstream channel modifications. 0.41 acres of permanent impacts to wetlands and waters would occur from the construction of the training berms and platforms, construction of the community amenities, and construction of the trash deflection bollards. This Project was designed to be self-mitigating, and no compensatory mitigation is anticipated because the Project would result in an increase in wetlands and waters from the expansion of the sediment basin. Though the Project activities would result in permanent impacts to wetlands and waters, they would not change or convert the wetlands and waters to upland or non-wetland/water land types. Temporary and permanent impacts to riparian habitat will be minimized through implementation of Mitigation Measure BIO-3 such that their impacts would be less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. d)Would the Project interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of wildlife nursery sites? There are no wildlife nurseries within the Project Site. Wildcat Creek provides a movement corridor for wildlife species, including western pond turtle and steelhead, and adjacent riparian habitats provide a movement corridor for migratory birds and mammals. The Project area does not provide suitable habitat for salmonids for any life stage (FlowWest, 2023). The Project area is designated critical habitat for the Central California Coastal steelhead (O. mykiss). However, steelhead have not recently been documented in the project area of Wildcat Creek (Pers. Comm. NOAA Fisheries 2022). The Project will require work within the channel of Wildcat Creek, and potentially introduce impacts to fish during construction. However, as described in Section IV.a above, the construction in-water work window will avoid the steelhead migration window and impacts to fish will be avoided by implementing Mitigation Measure BIO-5 for fish. The Project would not result in permanent disruption to movement of terrestrial wildlife species in the area. The Project includes new fencing, which would extend approximately 750 feet from the eastern edge of the gate at the end of the Verde Mini Park along the northern edge of the trail and terminating at the fish passage overlook. The fencing will be designed to ensure wildlife can safely pass through the fence and their movement would not be restricted by following USDA Natural Resources Conservation best practices to ensure species such as migratory birds can traverse the fence and its footings. By retrofitting the fish passage structure and sediment basin to meet fish passage criteria and improving channel conveyance by modifying the flood control channel, steelhead and other species such as the Western Pond Turtle may utilize the Project area for a migration corridor once the Project is completed, and improve the movement corridor for wildlife in the long term. Temporary impacts include construction activities, vegetation and tree removal, and increased noise and human presence which could result in potential impacts to movement of nesting or foraging Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 54 special-status bird species. Temporary construction-related activities may temporarily inhibit dispersal, migration, and daily movement of wildlife. However, Mitigation Measure BIO-7 would mitigate these temporary impacts by avoiding the main times and areas in which birds would be moving through the Project Site. Therefore, the impact would be less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. e)Would the Project conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance? The Project would not conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources. The trees that would be removed occur within the District right-of-way which is not subject to the County Tree Ordinance (Contra Costa County Code [CCC] Title 8, Chapter 816-6.10(6). Therefore, the impact would be less-than-significant. f)Would the Project conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan? The Project is not located within an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan. Therefore, there would be no impact. Sources of Information California Department of Fish and Wildlife. 2005. California Wildlife Habitat Relationships System. California Department of Fish and Wildlife - California Interagency Wildlife Task Group. Available at: https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=1659#:~:text=Nest%20placed%20near %20top%20of,meets%20water%20requirements%20from%20prey. Accessed March 13, 2024. Contra Costa County. 2005. Contra Costa County General Plan 2005-2020. Contra Costa County Community Development Department: Chapter 8, Conservation Element, Chapter 7, Public Facilities/Services Element. Website: https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/4732/General-Plan. Accessed January 6, 2023. Contra Costa County. 2023. Ordinance Code Chapter 816-6 Tree Protection and Preservation. Website: https://library.municode.com/ca/contra_costa_county/codes/ordinance_code?nodeId=TIT8ZO _DIV816TR_CH816-6TRPRPR. Accessed January 13, 2023. Federal Register. 2000. Designated critical habitat: critical habitat for 19 evolutionarily significant units of salmon and steelhead in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and California. 7764, Vol. 65, No. 32, Rules and Regulations. Final rule. Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and National Marine Fisheries Service, Wednesday, February 16, 2000. National Marine Fisheries Service. 2009. Designation of Critical Habitat for the threatened Southern Distinct Population Segment of North American Green Sturgeon Final Biological Report. Website: https://repository.library.noaa.gov/view/noaa/18683. Accessed February 27, 2024. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 55 Vollmar. January 2023. Delineation of Aquatic Features Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 56 Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 5.CULTURAL RESOURCES – Would the Project: a)Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource pursuant to §15064.5? b)Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource pursuant to §15064.5? c)Disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of formal cemeteries? Contra Costa County Historic Resources Inventory CULTURAL RESOURCES SUMMARY a)Would the Project cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource pursuant to California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines Section 15064.5? CEQA requires lead agencies to determine if a project will have an adverse impact on a significant cultural resource (which includes historical, archaeological, and tribal cultural resources) (Public Resources Code Sections 21084, 21084.1, 21083.2). The agency must first determine if a resource is historically significant, and then determine if the Project would cause a "substantial adverse change" in its significance (Public Resource Code 21068, CEQA Guidelines 15382). According to CEQA Guidelines, a resource is considered historically significant if it 1) is listed in or has been determined eligible for listing in the California Register of Historical Resources (CRHR); 2) is included in a local register of historical resources, as defined in Public Resources Code 5020.1(k); 3) has been identified as significant in an historical resources survey, as defined in Public Resources Code 5024.1(g); or 4) is determined to be historically significant by the CEQA lead agency [CCR Title 14, Section 15064.5(a)]. The following CRHR eligibility criteria need to be considered when making a significance determination: 1. Associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of California’s history and cultural heritage; 2. Associated with the lives of persons important in our past; 3. Embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, region, or method of construction or represents the work of an important creative individual, or possesses high artistic values; or 4. Has yielded, or may be likely to yield, information important in prehistory or history. To be considered a historical resource for the purpose of CEQA, the resource must also have integrity, which is the authenticity of a resource’s physical identity evidenced by the survival of characteristics that existed during the resource’s period of significance. Listing in the CRHR is not necessary for a resource to be considered a historical resource. A historical resource includes, but is not limited to, any object, building, structure, site, area, Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 57 place, record, or manuscript that is historically or archaeologically significant (PRC Section 5020.1). California Public Resources Code Section 21083.2 also addresses the identification and protection of unique archaeological resources. A “unique archaeological resource” is an archaeological artifact, object, or site for which there is a high probability that it meets any of the following criteria: 1. Contains information needed to answer important scientific research questions and that there is a demonstrable public interest in that information. 2. Has a special and particular quality, such as being the oldest of its type or the best available example of its type. 3. Is associated with a scientifically recognized important prehistoric or historic person or event. In most situations, resources that meet the definition of a unique archaeological resource also meet the definition of historical resource. As a result, it is current professional practice to evaluate cultural resources for significance based on their eligibility for listing in the CRHR. Adverse change is defined as physical demolition, destruction, relocation, or alteration of the resource or its immediate surroundings such that the significance of the historical resource would be materially impaired. The significance of a historical resource is materially impaired when a project: demolishes or materially alters in an adverse manner those physical characteristics of an historical resource that convey its historical significance and that justify its inclusion in, or eligibility for inclusion in the California Register, Local Register, or as determined by a lead agency for purposes of CEQA (CEQA Guidelines 15064.5(b)(1-2)(A- C). The District maintains a Historic Resource Inventory. The most recent version was updated in July 2019 and contains a list of historic resources organized by area. None of the listed resources are located within the Project Site. A cultural resources survey was prepared for the Project Site on June 16, 2022 by Tom Origer & Associates. A review (NWIC File No. 21-1799) was completed of the archaeological site base maps and records, survey reports, and other materials on file at the Northwest Information Center (NWIC), Sonoma State University, Rohnert Park by Eileen Barrow, M.A./RPA on April 26, 2022. The records search identified two resources within a 0.5-mile radius of the Project Site (P-07-000152 and P-07-000813). P-07-000813 is the Burlington Northern Sante Fe Railroad bridge and will not be touched or affected by Project activities. However, P-07-000152 has a high potential to contain human remains and additional investigations were conducted. Further investigations, including pedestrian surveys, a ground- penetrating radar (GPR) study, and tribal consultation with Confederated Villages with Lisjan Nation (CVLN) were conducted to determine if the site may extend into the Project Site and could be impacted by Project activities. A pedestrian survey was conducted on May 12, 2022 by Eileen Barrow and Lena Murphy. No evidence of the site was observed within the Project Site; however, a great amount of fill within the APE has obscured the ground surface and additional investigation was recommended. A backhoe study was also recommended to determine if P-07-000152 is within the APE since fill within the APE did not allow for determination at the time of the survey. As discussed in Section XVIII. Tribal Cultural Resources, the method of subsurface investigation was agreed upon with CVLN was ground-penetrating radar. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 58 The ground-penetrating radar study, conducted in late 2023, used ground-penetrating radar (GPR) to identify potential archaeological site deposits and indicators within and near the Project Site (Byram, 2024). The GPR study identified transects, over which the GPR machinery took readings to identify changes in the strata data that could be indicative of an archaeological site. More detail on used techniques is described at www.featuresurvey.com. The study notes that, “while GPR is very useful for identifying archaeological features such as pits and foundations…, there are limitations to the technique based on equipment, soil conditions, surface obstacles, buried utilities, and other site variability such as feature preservation” (Byram, 2023). The study identified no evidence of buried strata indicative of a resource at depths up to 6 feet (i.e. the depths that GPR could penetrate) within the Project area (Byram, 2023). Though GPR cannot conclusively rule out the presence or absence of P- 07-000152 or other resources, monitoring will occur with an archaeologist and tribal monitor for excavation depths of 4.5 to 16 feet, which corresponds to the maximum depth of excavation. The potential for subsurface resources cannot be completely ruled out and Project construction may encounter unanticipated historic or pre-historic resources; therefore, the following Mitigation Measures will be followed which require cultural resources sensitivity training for construction staff and the presence of a qualified Archaeological Monitor and Tribal Monitor during any ground disturbance that would reduce potential impacts to historic resources that may be discovered during Project construction. If a potential resource is identified, construction would be required to stop until appropriate identification and treatment measures are implemented in the event subsurface resources are discovered during Project construction. With implementation of Mitigation Measure CUL-1: Environmentally Sensitive Area and Archaeological and Tribal Monitoring and CUL-2: BMPs and Archaeological and Tribal Monitoring, the Project would have a less than significant impact with mitigation incorporated. Impact CUL-1: Development of the Project could disturb unanticipated historic resources. Mitigation Measures CUL-1: Environmentally Sensitive Area and Archaeological and Tribal Monitoring •An Environmentally Sensitive Area (ESA) shall be established in areas where excavation activities deeper than 4.5 feet would occur in previously undisturbed soil. The horizontal and vertical ESA shall be delineated on all project plans. A vertical ESA limit of 16 feet will be established, and no Project-related activities (e.g., excavation, trenching) shall take place below the vertical ESA limit. •An archaeological monitoring plan shall be prepared prior to any ground disturbance. The plan shall outline the procedures for discoveries during construction; the chain of command and responsible parties; and special procedures should human remains be encountered. •Archaeological monitoring by a qualified archaeologist shall be conducted during all ground disturbing activities within the boundaries of the Environmentally Sensitive Area that yield visible spoils between 4.5 feet below current ground surface and 16 Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 59 feet below current ground surface. A daily archaeological monitoring log shall be completed by the archaeological monitor and submitted weekly to the County of Contra Costa for review. Should archaeological resources or human remains be encountered the procedures outlined in the monitoring plan shall be implemented. •Tribal monitoring by a qualified Tribal monitor approved by the Confederated Villages of Lisjan Nation, the Tribe that consulted on this project pursuant to Assembly Bill 52 (the “Tribe”), shall be conducted during all ground disturbing activities within the boundaries of the Environmentally Sensitive Area between 4.5 feet below current ground surface and 16 feet below current ground surface. The Tribal monitor shall complete daily monitoring logs that provide descriptions of the day’s activities, including construction activities, locations, soil, and any cultural materials identified. CUL-2: BMPs and Archaeological and Tribal Monitoring •Contractor shall be notified of the possibility of encountering historic, archaeological, or paleontological materials during ground-disturbing activities. A standard inadvertent discovery clause will be included in every construction contract to inform Contractors of requirements during construction. •Prior to the initiation of construction activities, a qualified archaeologist and Tribal monitor shall provide Worker Environmental Awareness Program (WEAP) training to construction personnel with an overview of applicable laws, Project mitigation measures, and procedures to be followed with regards to historical, archaeological, and Tribal resources that may be encountered over the course of the Project. •Procedures for discovery include: o If potential cultural materials are discovered during construction, the Contractor shall cease all ground disturbing activities within a 100-foot radius of the find. The Contractor shall immediately notify the District Resident Engineer or their designated representative to request a qualified archaeologist and Confederated Villages of Lisjan Nation representative to assess the nature and significance of the find. o If the finding(s) is determined to be potentially significant, the archaeologist in consultation with the Tribal representative shall develop a research design and treatment plan outlining management of the resource, analysis, reporting of the find, and curation or reburial of cultural items. Preservation in place (i.e., avoidance) is typically the preferred manner of treatment of Tribal resources and cultural items. o Any previously undiscovered resources found during construction within the Project Site shall be recorded on appropriate California Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) 523 forms and shall be submitted to Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development, the Northwest Information Center (NWIC), and the California Office of Historic Preservation (OHP), as required. b)Would the Project cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource pursuant to California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines Section 15064.5? As part of the background cultural resource studies prepared for the Project, Tom Origer & Associates conducted records searches and a pedestrian survey, and Byram Associates conducted a GPR field investigation. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 60 As described above in Section V.a, the NWIC search identified two archaeological resources within a 0.5-mile radius of the Project Site which includes areas of permanent and temporary impacts. Tom Origer & Associates also completed a Native American Consultation and Sacred Land database search. The Native American Heritage Commission’s (NAHC) review of the Sacred Land database indicated they had no information about the presence of Native American cultural resources in the immediate Project area. The NAHC provided a list of 11 Native American tribal contacts who might have information about cultural materials within or near the Project Site. Tom Origer & Associates sent letters requesting information from these tribal representatives on April 15, 2022. To date, one Project specific response was received via follow-up email on November 14, 2022. As described further in Section XVIII.b, the District conducted Tribal Consultation with the Confederated Villages of Lisjan Nation in order to agree to measures to mitigate or avoid a significant effect on a tribal cultural resource. An agreement was reached, and consultation was concluded on March 18, 2024 after several meetings to evaluate the potential presence of resources within the Project Site. As described above in Section V.a, the pedestrian survey conducted by Tom Origer & Associates on April 26, 2022 noted that the presence or absence of an archaeological resource could not be confirmed during the pedestrian survey. The GPR field investigation did not identify evidence of buried strata indicative of particular resources that were the focus of the study (Byram, 2023). The presence of a recorded resource possibly within the Project Site, information shared by the Confederated Villages of Lisjan and their associates, and the inability to conclusively determine the limits of the known resource leaves the potential to encounter an archaeological resource high. While no evidence of the site was observed within the Project Site, fill is present within the Project Site to depths of 3.5 to 4 feet, which has obscured the native soil layer. It is unknown if the resource is present below the fill. As described in Section IV.a, the GPR study did not identify the presence of any buried resources in the 0 to 6 feet beneath the areas of excavation. Beyond the two NWIC records, no other resources have been documented within the Project Site, and no other resources were identified from a NAHC Sacred Lands File search or through outreach to Native American tribal representatives. By conducting this GPR investigation prior to construction, as well as implementing Mitigation Measures CUL-1 and CUL-2, the impact would be less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. IMPACT CUL-2: Project construction could cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource Mitigation Measures CUL-1: Environmentally Sensitive Area and Archaeological and Tribal Monitoring CUL-2: BMPs and Archaeological and Tribal Monitoring Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 61 c)Would the Project disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of formal cemeteries? No human remains or cemeteries are known to exist within or near the Project Site (Origer, 2022). However, the site type identified in the NWIC record search has high archaeological sensitivity. Though the investigations described previously indicated no presence of buried human remains, Project construction may unearth unanticipated historical or pre-historic archaeological resources. With implementation of Mitigation Measures CUL-1 provided in V.a, and CUL-3: Impact to previously undiscovered human remains, Project impacts on human remains would be less-than- significant with mitigation incorporated. IMPACT CUL-3: Project construction could inadvertently disturb buried human remains. Mitigation Measures CUL-1: Environmentally Sensitive Area and Archaeological and Tribal Monitoring CUL-3: Impact to Previously Undiscovered Human Remains •In the event of the accidental discovery or recognition of any human remains, there shall be no further excavation or disturbance within 100 feet of the remains until the Contra Costa County Coroner is contacted to determine whether the remains are Native American and if an investigation of the cause of death is required. At the same time, an archaeologist shall be contacted to assess the situation. •If the Coroner determines the remains to be Native American, the Coroner shall contact the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) within 24 hours of this identification. The NAHC shall identify a Most Likely Descendant (MLD) to inspect the site and provide recommendations for the proper treatment of the remains and associated funerary objects. •If the Confederated Villages of Lisjan Nation is designated as the MLD, the Tribe shall make every effort to recommend keeping ancestral remains and funerary objects in situ and protected. If removal of burials is necessary, Tribal representatives shall work with the qualified archaeologist to ensure that excavation and documentation are treated carefully, ethically, and respectfully. No photography or scientific study, destructive or non-destructive, shall be conducted on ancestral human remains. The archaeologist shall prepare a report of all activities, including the recommendations for the treatment of the human remains and any associated funerary objects as provided by the MLD. The report shall be submitted to the District, the Northwest Information Center, and the Tribe. •Tribal representatives shall rebury the Native American human remains and associated funerary objects with appropriate dignity either: 1) In accordance with the recommendations of the MLD if available; or 2) In the project vicinity at a location mitigated between the Confederated Villages of Lisjan Nation representative and the County, where the reburial would be protected in perpetuity and would not be subject to further subsurface disturbance. The discovery is to be documented on DPR523 forms and otherwise kept confidential and secure to prevent any further disturbance. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 62 Sources of Information Byram Archaeological Consulting, LLC. 2023. Archaeological Ground-Penetrating Radar for the Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project, Richmond, CA. Contra Costa County. 2005. Contra Costa County General Plan 2005-2020: Chapter 9 Open Space Element. Website: https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/4732/General-Plan. Accessed January 6, 2023. Tom Origer & Associates. 2022. Cultural Resources Study for the Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 63 Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 6.ENERGY – Would the Project: a)Result in potentially significant environmental impact due to wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary consumption of energy resources, during project construction or operation? b)Conflict with or obstruct a state or local plan for renewable energy or energy efficiency ? ENERGY SUMMARY a)Would the Project result in potentially significant environmental impact due to wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary consumption of energy resources, during project construction or operation? Construction of the Project would result in fuel consumption from the use of construction tools and equipment, truck trips to haul material, and vehicle trips generated from construction workers commuting to and from the site. Construction activities and corresponding fuel energy consumption would last less than one year in total and localized, as the use of diesel fuel and heavy-duty equipment would not be a long-term condition of the Project. In addition, there are no unusual Project characteristics that would cause the use of construction equipment or haul vehicles that would be less energy efficient compared with other similar construction sites in other parts of the State. The Project is limited to improvement of an existing sediment basin and fish passage structure, and will not require energy once it is constructed. The maintenance required following project construction would be less or equivalent to the amount of maintenance needed for the Project Site’s existing conditions. Therefore, Project impacts would be less-than-significant. b)Would the Project conflict with or obstruct a state or local plan for renewable energy or energy efficiency? The Project would not conflict with or obstruct a state or local plan for renewable energy or energy efficiency, including the 2015 Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan (CAP). As noted above, the Project would result in an incremental increase in energy usage during construction. However, this would be temporary in nature. Operation of the Project would not require change from existing condition. Construction workers would comply with all State requirements designed to minimize idling and associated emissions, which also minimizes use of fuel. Specifically, idling of commercial vehicles and offroad equipment would be limited to five minutes in accordance with the Commercial Motor Vehicle Idling Regulation (MVIR) and the Off-Road Regulation (ORR). Construction compliance with the MVIR/ORR as described would also prevent the Project from conflicting with this CAP goal. Therefore, Project impacts would be less-than-significant. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 64 Sources of Information Contra Costa County. 2015. Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan. Website: https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/39791/Contra-Costa-County-Climate- Action-Plan?bidId=. Accessed February 14, 2023. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 65 Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 7.GEOLOGY AND SOILS – Would the Project: a)Directly or indirectly cause potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury or death involving: i)Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as delineated on the most recent Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the State Geologist for the area or based on other substantial evidence of a known fault? ii)Strong seismic ground shaking? iii)Seismic-related ground failure, including liquefaction? iv)Landslides? b)Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil? c)Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable, or that would become unstable as a result of the Project and potentially result in on- or off-site landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction or collapse? d)Be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18-1-B of the Uniform Building Code (1994), creating substantial direct or indirect risks to life or property? e)Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative wastewater disposal systems where sewers are not available for the disposal of wastewater? f)Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site or unique geologic feature? GEOLOGY AND SOILS SUMMARY a)Would the Project directly or indirectly cause potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury or death involving: i)Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as delineated on the most recent Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the State Geologist for the area or based on other substantial evidence of a known fault? The Project would not cause potential substantial adverse effects including the risk of loss, injury, or death due to the rupture of a known earthquake fault because it is not located within an Earthquake Fault Zone for active faults as defined by the State Geologist (CE&G 2022). The nearest mapped active fault is the Hayward Fault, located approximately 1.1 miles northeast of the site. Therefore, the potential for surface rupture due to primary faulting at the site is considered to be low. In addition to this, the presence of construction workers is temporary, does not include the injection of groundwater Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 66 or oil, and therefore would not exacerbate the occurrence of fault rupture. Therefore, the risk of damage to property or injury/death to people as a result of fault rupture would be less-than- significant. ii.Strong seismic ground shaking? The Project is located in the greater San Francisco Bay Area, which has numerous active fault systems traversing through it, including the Hayward Fault, Concord Fault, Franklin Fault, and Calaveras Fault. The Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) developed Earthquake Shaking Hazard Maps, which predict the potential for ground shaking during major earthquakes on the active faults in the Bay Area. The Project is located in an area with high earthquake shaking potential, rated as ‘Violent’ shaking severity on the Modified Mercalli Intensity scale for a Magnitude 8.4 earthquake on the Hayward fault. The Project will include the demolition of the existing fish passage structure in order to create a more natural fish passage corridor. It is likely that the fish passage structure would be subjected to a major earthquake during its design life of 25 years. Ground movements resulting from an earthquake may cause damage to the concrete structure. This hazard would be taken into consideration when designing the Project components for the structure. Construction of the fish passage structure will follow the American Concrete Institute’s (ACI) design requirements for concrete and the American Institute of Steel Construction’s (AISC) design requirements for steel, which have taken earthquake standards into account. The project construction will also follow any requirements outlined by the California Building Code (CBC) for the Project’s structural elements. This would include the consideration of things such as seismic activity. The Project’s community amenities will not be affected as seismic activity due to their smaller sizes, and the basin does not have any structures. With the implementation of geotechnical design recommendations, impacts relative to seismic shaking and seismically induced ground failure would be less-than-significant. iii.Seismic-related ground failure, including liquefaction? Seismic shaking can trigger seismic-induced ground-failures caused by liquefaction. Loose soils and uncompacted or poorly compacted artificial fills located below the water table are susceptible to liquefaction. The geotechnical design report shows that the subsurface profile consists of lean to fat clays (which are not typically prone to liquefaction), and the reference borings and Cone Penetration Testing (CPT) probes show soil layers that are medium dense to dense. With low risk of liquefaction due to the subsurface profile and incorporation of foundation reinforcement into the Project design, the impacts relative to seismic-induced ground failure such as liquefaction would be less-than-significant. iv.Landslides? Landslides generally consist of any type of ground movement that occurs primarily due to gravity acting on an over-steepened slope and can occur due to excessive precipitation, human activities, or induced by seismic activity. The Project Site is generally flat, which makes landslides unlikely. In addition, the Contra Costa County General Plan shows that the Project Site is not located on a site Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 67 susceptible to landslides or an area where landslides previously occurred. Therefore, the impacts would be less-than-significant. b)Would the Project result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil? The Project would not result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil. Modified grades associated with the completed Project would result in negligible changes in topography. Construction of the Project would temporarily increase the exposure of soils to wind and erosion from grading and excavation activities. The demolition of the existing structure is anticipated to generate concrete and sediment material, which would be removed from the Project Site. The removal of sediment from the existing sediment basin, expansion of the sediment basin, and construction of access platforms would generate material as well. Fill and other materials would be imported, primarily for construction of the fish passage structure, the sediment basin training berms, access road, and community amenities. The Project will be consistent with EPA’s National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit, EPA’s Stormwater Construction Pollution Prevention Permit (SWPPP), and all best management practices. Consistency with these laws and permits would minimize any potential soil erosion resulting from project construction such that there would not be substantial soil erosion or loss of topsoil. The Project will be designed in accordance with all applicable geotechnical and earthquake design criteria and the regulations detailed in the Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Act. Therefore, the impact would be less-than-significant. c)Would the Project be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable, or that would become unstable as a result of the Project and potentially result in on- or off-site landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction or collapse? The Project would not be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable. As discussed above in Impacts a)iii) and a)iv), impacts related to liquefaction, lateral spreading (a ground failure associated with liquefaction), and landslides would be less-than-significant. Subsidence and collapse are ground failures that can occur as a result of groundwater or oil extraction. Groundwater may be extracted during construction to dewater the areas below the groundwater level. This amount of water removed would be temporary and not in significant quantities to affect subsidence in the area, due both to the amount of groundwater removed as well as type of soil in the Project area, which is not prone to subsidence. The Project does not include the operational extraction of groundwater or oil and would not otherwise create soil that is unstable. Therefore, impacts would be less-than-significant. d)Would the Project be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18-1-B of the Uniform Building Code (1994), creating substantial direct or indirect risks to life or property? The Project would not create substantial risks to life or property due to being located on expansive soil. The geotechnical design report identified expansive soils on the Project Site. Expansive soils can undergo significant volume change with changes in moisture content. They shrink and harden when dry and expand and soften when wet, which could cause building foundations to crack or heave resulting in substantial risks to life or property. This would be a risk for the fish passage structure. However, the geotechnical design report includes recommendations for the types of material used for Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 68 engineered fill as well as fill placement and compaction which would address the risks related to expansive soil. Therefore, impacts related to expansive soils would be less-than-significant. e)Would the Project have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative wastewater disposal systems where sewers are not available for the disposal of wastewater? Septic tanks and alternative wastewater disposal systems are not part of the Project. Therefore, the Project would have no impact. f)Would the Project directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site or unique geologic feature? The Project would not destroy a unique paleontological resource, site, or unique geologic feature. Paleontological resources are the fossilized evidence of past life found in the geologic record. The cultural resources survey conducted by Tom Origer & Associates for the Project indicates that the soils with the Project area belong to the Botella and Sycamore series. The geotechnical report required drilling soil boring logs from an elevation about 9 to 10 feet above the existing channel creek bottom. The maximum depth of digging during project construction would be approximately 14 feet, but this is limited to the fishway. The average depth of digging during the Project construction would be approximately 6 feet. Therefore, it is unlikely that paleontological resources or geologic features will be encountered during project construction. However, should any of those resources be encountered during project construction, Project contract specifications would stipulate that construction shall stop in the area if such potential resources are discovered. In addition, Mitigation Measure CUL-1 will be followed in the event subsurface resources are discovered. Therefore, the impact would be less-than- significant with mitigation incorporated. Sources of Information CE&G. 2022. Draft Geotechnical Design Report, Wildcat Creek Fish Passage Project. Contra Costa County. 2005. Contra Costa County General Plan 2005-2020: Chapter 10 Safety Element. Website: https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/4732/General-Plan. Accessed January 6, 2023. State of California Department of Conservation. 2019. California Geologic Survey – EQ Zapp: California Earthquake Hazards Zone Application. Website: https://www.conservation.ca.gov/cgs/geohazards/eq-zapp. Accessed January 13, 2023. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 69 Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 8.GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS – Would the Project: a)Generate greenhouse gas emissions, either directly or indirectly, that may have a significant impact on the environment? b)Conflict with an applicable plan, policy or regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases? GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS SUMMARY a)Would the Project generate greenhouse gas emissions, either directly or indirectly, that may have a significant impact on the environment? The 2017 Clean Air Plan: Spare the Air, Cool the Climate (Plan) is the most recently adopted regional plan which provides a regional strategy to improve Bay Area air quality, meet public health goals and reduce GHG emissions. Through Plan implementation, the BAAQMD’s goal is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030 and to 80 percent below 1990 levels by 2050 . The BAAQMD’s CEQA Air Quality Guidelines also assists lead agencies in complying with CEQA requirements regarding potentially adverse impacts on air quality. There are no formal BAAQMD quantitative significance thresholds for GHG emissions from construction activities. However, it requires the lead agency to quantify and disclosure project construction and operational GHG emissions is recommended and to make a determination of impacts related to meeting AB 32 reduction goals. The Project would generate greenhouse gas emissions during its construction including site preparation, sediment removal from the existing sediment basin, construction of the fish passage structure, sediment basin improvements, community amenities, and cleanup/revegetation. Construction activities would occur over about six months in 2025. GHG emissions would also come from the use of trucks transporting equipment and material to/from the site, and from the motor vehicles of the construction workers. Project construction GHG emissions were estimated using the CalEEMod model (as described in Chapter 2, Section 3 – Air Quality) to be about 532 metric tons of CO2e from the equipment, trucks and worker vehicles over the total construction period. Once the Project is complete, there will be no operational GHG emissions. The Project components include a fish passage structure, sediment basin, and recreational area, none of which would have any associated GHG emissions. Thus, as the significance thresholds require, there will be no natural gas use, no inefficient energy use and no VMT generated. However, existing bi-annual inspection and potential excavation of the low flow channel through the sediment basin will continue as before, but likely be less frequent after Project installation. Community use of the recreational amenities will likely increase from implementation of the Project, but most community travel to/from the Project Site Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 70 will likely be by foot or bicycle and have no associated GHG emissions. Therefore, Project impacts would be less-than-significant. b)Would the Project conflict with an applicable plan, policy or regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases? Assembly Bill 32 (AB 32), the California Global Warming Solutions Act (2006), required the CARB to lower State GHG emissions to 1990 levels by 2020—a 25 percent reduction statewide with mandatory caps for significant GHG emission sources. AB 32 directed CARB to develop discrete early actions to reduce GHG while preparing the Climate Change Scoping Plan to identify how best to reach the 2020 goal (CARB, Assembly Bill 32 Overview). To attain the longer-range GHG emissions reductions required by AB 32 (i.e., reducing GHG emissions to 40% below 1990 levels by 2030), several additional climate change strategies were introduced in 2015: (1) reducing present petroleum use in cars and trucks by up to 50 percent; (2) increasing from one-third to 50 percent the share of California’s electricity derived from renewable sources; (3) doubling the energy efficiency savings achieved at existing buildings and making heating fuels cleaner; (4) reducing the release of methane, black carbon, and other short-lived GHGs; (5) managing farm and rangelands, forests and wetlands to more efficiently store carbon; and (6) periodically updating the State's climate adaptation strategy. In its most recent revision, California’s 2020 Climate Change Scoping Plan lays out the sector-by- sector strategies for achieving carbon neutrality (i.e., GHGs 85% below 1990 levels) by 2045 or earlier. An important aspect of this Scoping Plan includes reducing further the remaining emissions by ensuring that California’s natural and working lands — forests, shrub-lands/chaparral, croplands, wetlands, etc. — incorporate and store more carbon in the trees, plants, and soil of those lands that cover 90 percent of the state (CARB. California’s 2022 Climate Change Scoping Plan Fact Sheet and CDFW Wetlands Restoration for Greenhouse Gas Reduction Program). The Project would not conflict with GHG reduction goals set forth in Assembly Bill 32, including the Recommended Actions identified by the 2020 CARB Climate Change Scoping Plan. The BAAQMD’s 2017 Clean Air Plan contains 85 control measures aimed at reducing air pollutant and GHG emissions in the Bay Area, but none are relevant to wildlife habitat improvements such as the Project’s. Thus, there is no Project inconsistency with the 2017 Clean Air Plan. The Project is located within the jurisdictions of Contra Costa County, City of San Pablo, and City of Richmond. The Contra Costa County General Plan (General Plan) addresses reduction of GHG emissions within the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County through a series of 36 local programs and 23 recommended policy measures related to transportation, land use, building energy, water, waste, and green infrastructure. The Project would have no operational impacts in any of these sectors. The Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan estimated the total annual GHG emissions to be about 1.5 million metric tons of CO2e. Comparatively, the Project’s estimated construction emissions would be about 532 metric tons, a de minimis and temporary increase that would not hinder Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 71 the District’s progress towards its GHG reduction targets. The Project’s public access features would serve mostly Verde Elementary School children and nearby residents who would travel to the site mostly by foot or bicycle. Therefore, there would not be a significant increase in operational GHG emissions. Thus, there would be no Project conflict with County plans, policies, or regulations adopted for the purpose of reducing GHG emissions and the impact would be less-than-significant. Sources of Information BAAQMD. 2017 Clean Air Plan: Spare the Air, Cool the Climate. Website: https://www.baaqmd.gov/plans-and-climate/air-quality-plans/current-plans Contra Costa County. Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan (2015). Website: https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/8678/Climate-Action-Plan California’s Climate Change Assessments. California’s Changing Climate 2018 A Summary of Key Findings from California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Website: https://www.energy.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2019-11/20180827_Summary_Brochure_ADA.pdf CARB. Current California GHG Emission Inventory Data Website: https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/ghg- inventory-data CARB. Assembly Bill 32 Overview Website: http://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/ab32/ab32.htm CARB. 2022 Scoping Plan for Achieving Carbon Neutrality Executive Summary. Website: https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2023-04/2022-sp-es.pdf CARB. California’s 2022 Climate Change Scoping Plan Fact Sheet https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/fact-sheets/californias-2022-climate-change-scoping-plan- fact-sheet California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). Wetlands Restoration for Greenhouse Gas Reduction Program Website: https://wildlife.ca.gov/Conservation/Watersheds/Greenhouse- Gas- Reduction#:~:text=The%20Wetlands%20Restoration%20for%20Greenhouse%20Gas%20Red uction%20Program,sequestration%20rates%20that%20can%20sequester%20carbon%20for% 20decades Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 72 Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 9.HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS – Would the Project: a)Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials? b)Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment? c)Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed school? d)Be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5 and, as a result, would create a significant hazard to the public or the environment? e)For a Project located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the Project result in a safety hazard or excessive noise for people residing or working in the Project area? f)Impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan? g)Expose people or structures, either directly or indirectly, to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving wildland fires? HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS SUMMARY a)Would the Project create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials? During construction, construction vehicles would travel to and from the site. Examples of construction vehicles include trucks and excavators, which would use hazardous materials, such as fuels (gasoline and diesel), oils and lubricants, and cleaners (which could include solvents and corrosives in addition to soaps and detergents). However, these hazardous materials would be in small quantities, therefore posing no hazard to construction workers or the public. Compliance with federal, state, and local hazardous materials regulations would minimize the risk to the public presented by these potential hazards during desilting. The Project would not involve routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials or involve potential releases of hazardous materials Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 73 into the environment beyond that which exists currently from the traveling public. Therefore, the impact would be less-than-significant. b)Would the Project create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the likely release of hazardous materials into the environment? The Project would not create a significant hazard to the public through the release of hazardous materials into the environment because the Project Site has not stored any hazardous materials, and there is not a history of hazardous material issues at the Project Site. A Hazardous Materials Report detailing the findings of multiple databases for any hazardous waste or substances from contaminated soil or groundwater was prepared by FlowWest in April 2022. The findings state that despite being located in an industrial area and that the Project Site was historically used as a nursery, there are no identified contamination concerns near the Project on any of the government databases, including the Department of Toxic Substances Control’s Hazardous Waste and Substances Site List—Site Cleanup (Cortese List). Though the Project Site does not have any history of hazardous material issues, soils in the Project Site could be contaminated with pesticides, herbicides, and metals from historical agricultural land use (nursery). Sediment excavated from the fish passage structure and sediment basin will be directly off-hauled and/or temporarily stockpiled in the vacant, upland area of the Project Site that is used by the District as a corporation yard for maintenance. Stockpile BMPs will be in place to reduce potential impacts from stockpiled material. Examples could include covering the stockpile with tarps to secure soil and routine inspection to prevent sediment transport. During soil placement, the pile will be graded, sloped and track-walked to prevent erosion. Excavated sediment may be off-hauled to the West County Wastewater District (WCWD). The soil will be tested as hazardous materials prior to off-haul to determine if the soil can be accepted by WCWD or otherwise, at alternate suitable location(s). If WCWD cannot accept the sediment, it will be properly managed/retained onsite until another user can be identified and/or disposed of at an appropriate permitted landfill. Appropriate safety measures would be in place during construction to isolate and protect the creek from contamination that could be associated with construction activities or from replacement of the concrete fish ladder. The SWPPP will be in place to avoid the likely release of hazardous materials into the creek. While the Project will not have long-term operational impacts, temporary impacts could occur during construction due to inadvertent discovery of contaminated water, disturbance of potentially contaminated soils during sediment removal and excavation, and demolition of the concrete fish passage structure. The disturbance will be limited in nature and potential for accidental release or exposure will be minimized with implementation of Mitigation Measure HAZ -1 through HAZ-4. IMPACT HAZ-1: Soil movement and fish passage concrete demolition activities could mobilize contaminants exposing construction workers, the general public, and the environment. MITIGATION MEASURE HAZ-1: Prepare and Implement a Hazardous Materials Dewatering and Management Plan The Project proponent or its contractor(s) shall develop and implement a Hazardous Materials Dewatering and Management Plan establishing procedures to manage potentially contaminated fluids encountered during construction of the Project to minimize potential impacts to the public or Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 74 environment from hazardous materials. The Plan shall identify proper protocols to test and handle potentially hazardous materials if any are found. The Plan shall identify potential licensed disposal facilities and their acceptance criteria; the chemicals to be analyzed to comply with those acceptance criteria, which shall include at a minimum TPH as gasoline, diesel, and motor oil, and BTEX compounds. The Plan shall identify the proper protocols for the following three dewatering fluid disposal options: •Groundwater with petroleum hydrocarbons (could be discharged to the WCWD under their Temporary Discharge Permit, providing the contaminant concentrations are within the Temporary Discharge Permit acceptance criteria and coverage under this permit is acquired prior to the discharge). •Groundwater with petroleum hydrocarbons could be pumped into trucks or portable storage containers and transported to an offsite licensed disposal facility permitted to accept the waste. •Groundwater with petroleum hydrocarbons could be treated onsite under the RWQCB’s General Waste Discharge Requirements for Discharge or Reclamation of Extracted and Treated Groundwater (RWQCB Order No. R2-2017-0048, NPDES Permit No. CAG912002). The pumped groundwater would be pumped into a settling tank to drop the sediments out of solution, and pumped through a treatment system (e.g., granular activated carbon [GAC] to decrease the concentration of TPH as diesel to less than 50 ug/L and TPH as motor oil to less than 100 ug analytically tested to verify that treatment has achieved the effluent limitations. Upon successful treatment, the water could be discharged to the ground. MITIGATION MEASURE HAZ-2: Pollutant and Hazardous Materials Handling •The Bay Area Air Quality Management District shall be notified through their Asbestos Notification System prior to demolition in compliance with the National Emissions Standards for Hazards Air Pollutants (NESHAP). •Worker safety recommendations for employees working at the site follow state and federal hazardous material handling regulations during construction activities. MITIGATION MEASURE HAZ-3: Soil Sampling and Investigation Prior to commencement of sediment excavation activities for either the sediment basin expansion or the community amenities, a soil sampling plan and results report shall be prepared for the District and soil samples shall be collected. The samples shall be analyzed for heavy metals identified in California Code of Regulations (CCR) Title 22. The samples shall also be analyzed for total petroleum hydrocarbons (diesel-range, gasoline, and motor oil), semi‐volatile organic compounds (SVOC), and pesticides. The sampling report indicating the results of the sampling shall be submitted to the District for review and approval. If no contamination is present, no further action is required. If contamination is present, Mitigation Measure HAZ-4 will be implemented. MITIGATION MEASURE HAZ-4: Implement Hazard Mitigation Plan Per Soil Sampling Report If soil testing results exceed applicable environmental screening levels (ESLs) the District shall follow the recommendations provided in the results report to minimize potential for accidental release of contaminants. Recommendations may include development and implementation of one or more of the following plans: •Preparation and implementation of a Health and Safety Plan: If recommended, a Health and Safety Plan would be prepared and implemented by the Contractor to provide appropriate Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 75 disclosure and information to the site workers and personnel of the contaminants present, hazard identification and awareness, and appropriate personal protective equipment and procedures to be used during construction of the Project. •Preparation and implementation of a Soil Management Plan: If recommended, a Soil Management Plan would be prepared by the District and implemented by the Contractor. Likely conditions are dust control and monitoring procedures, soil handing procedures, soil profiling, transportation and disposal procedure to ensure that the construction workers, residents and the general public are protected and that the Contractor understands and has plans and procedures for handling, managing, stockpiling, profiling, transporting and disposing of the contaminated soils at an appropriate licensed disposal facility. The plan shall include lines of reporting and responsibilities and authorities. The plan shall also detail how soil will be managed to reduce hazardous material exposure impacts from operational use of the Project Site by workers and the general public. The plan shall also be approved by appropriate regulatory agency(s) if necessary. •Preparation and implementation of an Air Monitoring Plan: If recommended, an Air Monitoring Plan would be prepared by the District and implemented by the Contractor during construction that presents specific air monitoring procedures to be used during potentially dust generating portions of the construction activities. The Air Monitoring Plan may include sampling and testing at intervals sufficient to understand and avoid potential exposure to workers, residents, and the general public. With implementation of Mitigation Measures HAZ-1 through HAZ-4, Project impacts will be less than significant with mitigation incorporated. c)Would the Project emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed school? The Project Site is located within 0.25 mile of an existing school, Verde Elementary School, which is located directly east of the Project Site. Construction activity will require the use of trucks carrying hazardous materials, such as diesel fuels. Although the Project would result in hazardous emissions and handle hazardous materials within 0.25 mile of a school, the Project would comply with Mitigation Measure HAZ-1 through HAZ-4 for reducing the exposure of hazards to Verde Elementary School. Therefore, the impact would be less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. d)Would the Project be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5 and, as a result, would it create a significant hazard to the public or the environment? The Project would not be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites. Government Code Section 65962.5 requires that the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) within the California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA) compile and update a list (Cortese List) of all hazardous waste facilities subject to corrective action. A Hazardous Materials Report prepared by FlowWest in April 2022 included a comprehensive search of multiple government databases, including the Department of Toxic Substances Control’s EnviroStor Database and Cortese List, State Water Boards’ GeoTracker, California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment’s (OEHHA) CalEnviroScreen, and State Water Resources Control Board’s Active Cease Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 76 and Desist Orders (CDOs) and Cleanup and Abatement Orders (CAOs). No identified contamination sites were located within ¼ mile of the Project Site. Therefore, there would be no impact. e)For a Project located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the Project result in a safety hazard or excessive noise for people residing or working in the Project area? The Project Site would not be located within an airport land use plan or within two miles of a public airport. The closest public airports are Gnoss Field Airport, located approximately 16.5 miles northwest of the Project Site, and Buchanan Field Airport, located approximately 16.5 miles east of the Project Site. Oakland International Airport is located approximately 18.5 miles southeast of the Project Site. At these distances, the Project is not located within an airport land use plan or within two miles of a public airport. Therefore, there would be no impact. f)Would the Project impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan? The Project would not impair or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan. During construction, it is expected that construction equipment and vehicles would be accessing and leaving the Project Site, however emergency vehicles will have access at all times. The County Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) outlines general procedures in response to emergency crises, such as evacuations. The County EOP includes information regarding evacuations and shelter- in-place orders and is also the entity that has the authority to issue these orders. The main arterial roads into and out of the Project vicinity are Richmond Parkway and Brookside Drive, which would serve as the main emergency response and evacuation routes into and out of the Project vicinity. In addition, there are secondary roads that could be used for emergency response and evacuation, such as Fred Jackson Way, Pittsburgh Avenue, and Parr Boulevard. With adherence to the procedures of the County EOP, the Project would not conflict with the County EOP or General Plan safety policies. Therefore, impacts related to emergency response and evacuation would be less-than-significant. g)Would the Project expose people or structures, either directly or indirectly, to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving wildland fires? The Project would not expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving wildland fires. According to CAL FIRE, the Project Site is located in a local responsibility area (LRA)- Incorporated and is not located in a LRA Fire Hazard Severity Zone. The nearest Fire Hazard Severity Zone is located approximately two miles southeast of the Project Site and is designated as a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. Given that the Project Site is mostly surrounded by developed land for light industrial use, the Project Site would not be prone to wildfires. Therefore, the impact would be less-than-significant. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 77 Sources of Information CAL FIRE. 2007. Contra Costa County Fire Hazard Severity Zones in SRA. Contra Costa County. 2015. Emergency Operations Plan. Website: https://www.cocosheriff.org/home/showpublisheddocument/168/637284267426930000. Accessed January 13, 2023. FlowWest. 2022. Hazardous Materials Report. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 78 Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 10.HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY – Would the Project: a)Violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements or otherwise substantially degrade surface or ground water quality? b)Substantially decrease groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such that the Project may impede sustainable groundwater management of the basin? c)Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river or through the addition of impervious surfaces, in a manner which would: i)Result in substantial erosion or siltation on - or off-site? ii)Substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner which would result in flooding on- or off-site? iii)Create or contribute runoff water which would exceed the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff? iv)Impede or redirect flood flows? d)In flood hazard, tsunami, or seiche zones, risk release of pollutants due to Project inundation? e)Conflict with or obstruct implementation of a water quality control plan or sustainable groundwater management plan? HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY SUMMARY a)Would the Project violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements or otherwise substantially degrade surface or ground water quality? The Project is located within the Wildcat Creek watershed. This approximately 17 square mile watershed drains the east side of the Berkeley hills, goes through both urban and natural environments, and drains into San Pablo Bay. Wildcat Creek is designated as an impaired waterbody under the Federal Clean Water Act due to the presence of diazinon, which is a pesticide. The drainage area in the Project area is expected to be subject to regulation by the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), the San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board (SFBRWQCB), and the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB). Impacts to the channels and associated wetlands require authorization with a Section 404 Individual Permit from the USACE, and a Section 401 Water Quality Certification from the SFBRWQCB. The 401 Water Quality Certification will address the waste discharge requirements of the SFRBRWQCB. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 79 Project operation would have no negative water quality impacts; the improved fishway and sediment basin would have similar or improved impacts on water quality to existing conditions. The improved fish passage structure will operate similarly to the existing conditions, allowing sediment to pass through to the downstream sediment basin. Under existing conditions, the sediment basin is filled to capacity, so sediment travels downstream beyond the sediment basin and impacts water quality. The sediment basin would be emptied of sediment as part of the Project. Once emptied, the sediment basin would capture sediment from traveling downstream. The sediment basin would operate similarly to how it currently operates, with the same capacity as existing conditions and no change in the elevation of the downstream weir. Project construction would require excavation, grading, earthmoving, backfilling, and compaction, which, if water is present during construction, could impact water quality. Construction and ground disturbance activities associated with the Project would occur on the bed/banks of Wildcat Creek, within the fishway in the flood control structure, and in the sediment basin; water quality impacts, including turbidity impacts, could be significant in the immediate vicinity of construction activities. In addition, construction activities would require use of hazardous materials such as fuels and oils, which, if not managed appropriately, could become mobilized by runoff and contribute to non-point source pollution and degradation of water quality. Project construction would involve disturbance of more than one acre of land and is thus subject to the requirements of the NPDES Construction General Permit (SWRCB Order 2009-0009- DWQ). As a result, the Project proponent would be required to implement a SWPPP to prevent discharge of sediment or pollutants from the construction site. Mitigation Measure BIO-1 includes a summary of the requirements of the NPDES Construction General Permit. Compliance with this permit and implementation of Mitigation Measure HAZ-1 through HAZ-4, which would minimize potential for release of hazardous materials encountered in groundwater (described in Section 9, Hazards and Hazardous Materials), would reduce this impact to less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. b)Would the Project substantially decrease groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such that the Project may impede sustainable groundwater management of the basin? The Project will not require any withdrawals from an aquifer or groundwater table and will have a negligible effect on groundwater recharge, as the desilting will not change the nature of the Project Site. Therefore, the Project will have no impact. c)Would the Project substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river or through the addition of impervious surfaces, in a manner which would: i.Result in substantial erosion or siltation on- or off-site? The community amenities elements of the Project includes construction of hardscapes for play areas and walkways; however, a rain garden would be constructed and adequately sized to treat any additional stormwater generated by project activities. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 80 Therefore, the Project will not increase the untreated impervious surface area within the Wildcat Creek watershed. An increase in impervious area could result in additional runoff water thus increasing the flow volumes, rates, and peak durations from the loss of unpaved overland flow and native infiltration. However, the Project will not result in any changes to runoff patterns in the Wildcat Creek watershe d, and therefore associated impacts will not occur. BMPs for erosion and sediment control as identified in Best Management Practice BIO-1: General Construction-related Mitigation Measures and standard BMPs will be implemented during the Project. Therefore, Project impacts will be less than significant with mitigation incorporated. ii.Substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner which would result in flooding on- or off-site? As discussed in Subsection (i), above, the Project would result in a negligible increase in impervious surface as compared to existing conditions, and an appropriately sized stormwater treatment feature will be built in association to manage any additional surface runoff created from the increase in impervious surfaces as part of the community amenities; because of this treatment, surface runoff would not increase. Following sediment removal, the risk of flooding on- and off-site will decrease compared to the risk under current conditions. The Project will not increase exposure of people or property to flooding. In fact, one the goal of the Project is to lessen the potential exposure of people and property to flooding by restoring capacity to the flood control channel. Therefore, the impact would be less-than-significant. iii.Create or contribute runoff water which would exceed the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff? Construction would occur during summer months when zero to little flow or precipitation would occur. No additional water or temporary impervious surfaces would contribute water to stormwater drainage systems. The Project would not reduce the capacity of the sediment basin, nor would impervious areas added as part of the community amenities create an amount of runoff water that would exceed the capacity of the existing stormwater drainage system. The rain garden would capture the stormwater. Therefore, the Project would not result in any polluted runoff. This Project would not create or contribute significant runoff that would exceed the capacity of the improvements, therefore there would be no impact. iv.Impede or redirect flood flows? The Project would not impede or significantly redirect flood flows. As discussed in Subsection (a) above, the Project will improve the hydraulic capacity of the channels and reduce flood risk to adjacent properties by excavating sediment deposits from the channels which will facilitate movement of water during high flow events. Flood flow direction in the sediment basin would be shifted because of the training berms, which are designed to redirect flows to prevent the dispersion of flow through the sediment basin that occurs in the existing condition. The fish passage structure would be lowered and is designed to prevent sediment build up, which occurs in the existing condition. Flood modeling shows that the Project would not cause a significant increase in water surface elevation in any areas (FlowWest 2023), therefore the impact would be less-than-significant. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 81 d)In flood hazard, tsunami, or seiche zones, would the Project risk release of pollutants due to Project inundation? Tsunami risks for the Bay Area were mapped by CalEMA and the project area is not at risk for tsunamis. In addition, the site is not in a seiche zone (Department of Conservation 2021). Construction of the Project would be required to comply with numerous hazardous materials regulations designed to ensure that hazardous materials are transported, used, stored, and disposed of in a safe manner to protect worker safety, and to reduce the potential for a release of construction-related fuels or other hazardous materials into the environment, including stormwater and downstream receiving water bodies the Project is in a flood hazard zone (FEMA 2023). But with implementation of mitigation measures HAZ-1 through HAZ-4, there will be no potential releases of pollutants related to the Project; therefore, the Project would have less than significant impact with mitigation incorporated. e)Would the Project conflict with or obstruct implementation of a water quality control plan or sustainable groundwater management plan? The Project would not conflict with the County Watershed Program (CWP) (water quality control plan) or the East Bay Plain Subbasin (EBP) Groundwater Sustainability Plan (GSP) (sustainable groundwater management plan). The Project would be required to comply with the terms of the Construction General Permit, which require the preparation and implementation of a SWPPP that would include BMPs to ensure reduction of pollutants from construction activities potentially entering surface or groundwater. NPDES compliance will also include requirements to treat any increase in runoff resulting from new impervious surfaces, including the new mini park and fish passage overlook, would be mitigated by the addition of rain gardens. The rain gardens, which will reduce pollutant loads to the creek, would also reduce pollutants to the EPB Subbasin. There would also be no use of or connection to groundwater related to the Project, beyond natural interactions between creeks and groundwater. Compliance with Mitigation Measure BIO-1, which includes the preparation and implementation of a SWPPP and compliance with the NPDES would reduce impacts related to consistency with the CWP and the East Bay Plain (EPB) Subbasin Groundwater Sustainability Plan (GSP) to less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. Sources of Information CDFW. 2013. Contra Costa County San Pablo Bay Watershed Stream Habitat Assessment Reports. Department of Conservation (DOC). 2024. Contra Costa County Tsunami Hazard Areas. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). 2024. National Flood Hazard Layer FIRMette. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 82 Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 11.LAND USE AND PLANNING – Would the Project: a)Physically divide an established community? b)Cause a significant environmental impact due to conflict with any land use plan, policy, or regulation adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect? LAND USE AND PLANNING SUMMARY a)Would the Project physically divide an established community? The Project would not physically divide an established community. The physical division of an already established community typically refers to construction of a linear feature, such as an interstate, railroad tracks, or the removal of a means of access that would impact mobility within an existing community and an outlying area. The Project would include the construction of a new fish passage structure and community amenities. The Project Site does not contain any residential foundations. The development of the Project’s components would not impair access to any established community or otherwise divide an established community. Therefore, there would be no impact. b)Would the Project cause a significant environmental impact due to conflict with any land use plan, policy, or regulation adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect? The Project would not conflict with any land use plan, policy, or regulation. The Project would demolish the existing fish passage structure, clear out debris, and construct a new fish passage structure, with some elements of community amenities. The land use would remain the same. Therefore, there would be no impact. Sources of Information Contra Costa County. 2005. Contra Costa County General Plan 2005-2020: Chapter 3 Land Use Element. Website: https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/4732/General-Plan. Accessed January 6, 2023. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 83 Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 12.MINERAL RESOURCES – Would the Project: a)Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource that would be of value to the region and the residents of the state? b)Result in the loss of availability of a locally- important mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local general plan, specific plan or other land use plan? MINERAL RESOURCES SUMMARY a)Would the Project result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource that would be of value to the region and the residents of the state? There are no mines, mineral plants or geothermal wells located at the Project Site. The Project is not located in an area known to contain minerals that would be of value to the region or residents of the state. Therefore, the Project would not result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource that would be of value to the region; there would be no impact. b)Would the Project result in the loss of availability of a locally-important mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local general plan, specific plan or other land use plan? Though the Contra Costa County General Plan identifies locally important mineral resources throughout the District, none are delineated in any local land use plans for the Project area, including the Contra Costa County General Plan. Therefore, the Project would not result in the loss of availability of a locally important mineral resource recovery site; there would be no impact. Sources of Information Contra Costa County. 2005. Contra Costa County General Plan 2005-2020: Chapter 8 Mineral Resources, Chapter 10 Safety Element. Website: https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/4732/General-Plan. Accessed January 6, 2023. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 84 Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 13.NOISE – Would the Project: a)Generation of a substantial temporary or permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the vicinity of the Project in excess of standards established in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of other agencies? b)Generation of excessive groundborne vibration or groundborne noise levels? c)For a Project located within the vicinity of a private airstrip or an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the Project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels? NOISE SUMMARY a)Would the Project result in generation of a substantial temporary or permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the vicinity of the Project in excess of standards established in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of other agencies? Sound is created when vibrating objects produce pressure variations that move rapidly outward into the surrounding air. The more powerful the pressure variations, the louder the sound perceived by a listener. The decibel (dB) is the standard measure of loudness relative to the human threshold of perception. Noise is a sound or series of sounds that are intrusive, objectionable, or disruptive to daily life. Many factors influence how a sound is perceived and whether it is considered disturbing to a listener; these include the physical characteristics of sound and other factors relating to the situation of the listener (e.g., the time of day when it occurs.). A sound-level meter (SLM) is an instrument used to measure the average pressure level of real-world sounds at any moment or over extended time periods. Since human hearing is less sensitive at low frequencies and high frequencies than in the mid-frequency range, the SLM applies human hearing sensitivity factors to each frequency component of the sound being measured before averaging them. This is called “A” weighting, and the average pressure level measured by an SLM in this mode is called the A-weighted sound level (dBA). The Verde Elementary School is adjacent to the western boundary of the Project Site; an existing low- density residential neighborhood is adjacent to the south bank of Wildcat Creek just south of the Project Site; commercial/industrial uses surround the Project Site; and there are existing residential uses along Rumrill Boulevard adjacent to the eastern boundary of the Project Site. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 85 Just as vibrating objects radiate sound through the air, if they are in contact with the ground, they also radiate mechanical energy through the ground. If such an object is massive enough and/or close enough to an observer, the ground vibrations can be perceptible and, if the vibrations are strong enough, they can cause annoyance to the observer and, if still stronger, damage to buildings. The metric most commonly used to correlate vibration levels with human annoyance and structural damage is the vibration decibel (VdB). There are no policies or standards in the District or either City’s General Plans/Ordinances for avoiding or reducing structural damage or annoyance from construction vibration impacts. However, the Federal Transit Administration (FTA, Transit Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment Manual, 2018) provides methodologies for their evaluation and standards to avoid impacts, specifically a 94 VdB upper limit to prevent structural damage to wood frame structures that are characteristic of most buildings, and an 80 VdB upper limit to avoid significant annoyance to building occupants. Contra Costa County General Plan The following Contra Costa County General Plan 2005-2020 policies are relevant to the Project: •Policy 11-7. Public Projects shall be designed and constructed to minimize long-term noise impacts on existing residents. •Policy 11-8. Construction activities shall be concentrated during the hours of the day that are not noise-sensitive for adjacent land uses and should be commissioned to occur during normal work hours of the day to provide relative quiet during the more sensitive evening and early morning periods. Contra Costa County Code of Ordinances Contra Costa County’s Code of Ordinances does not contain quantitative standards for regulating noise from construction equipment. However, the following Code sections are applicable to the Project: •Section 716-8.1004. Work hours. If operations under the permit are within five hundred feet of residential or commercial occupancies, except as otherwise provided by conditions of approval for the project, grading operations shall be limited to weekdays and to the hours, between seven-thirty a.m. and five-thirty p.m., except that maintenance and service work on equipment may be performed at any time. •Section 716-8.1008. Nuisances. Operations shall be controlled to prevent nuisances to public and private ownerships because of dust, drainage, removal of natural support of land and structures, encroachment, noise, and/or vibration. City of Richmond General Plan The following policy found in the City of Richmond General Plan 2030 is relevant to the Project: •Policy SN4.1. Noise Levels. Work with regulatory agencies to monitor and enforce noise standards in the community. Reduce or mitigate objectionable noise sources and require new Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 86 noise sources to comply with noise standards. Regulate both indoor and outdoor noise levels to protect health and safety. Use a combination of noise standards and existing noise levels to determine impacts and mitigation measures. City of San Pablo General Plan The following policies found in the City of San Pablo General Plan 2030 are relevant to the Project: •Policy SN-I-41. Work with Caltrans, AC transit and railroad operators to mitigate transportation-related noise impacts on residential areas and sensitive uses. Additionally, continue to limit hours for construction and demolition work to reduce construction-related noises. City of San Pablo Municipal Code The City of San Pablo Municipal Code prohibits all construction operations between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. unless there is an emergency. The Project Site and vicinity were surveyed on a recent midweek school day (Thursday, December 14, 2023) to observe the influential on- and near-site noise sources and to measure noise levels at local noise-sensitive receptors with an Extech SDL600, Type II, ANSI-certified meter. Observations during the survey and the noise data collected are summarized in TABLE 2 - 6. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 87 TABLE 2 - 6: MEASUREMENT DATA AND SURVEY OBSERVATIONS Measurement Location/Time Lmin L90 Leq L10 Lmax Observations during Measurement Period Location #1 Verde Elementary School East Fence Line 1:22 pm – 1:32 pm 12/14/23 50.1 52.3 67.9 68.2 85.9 No play activity in the school’s eastern outdoor areas just west of the measurement location (low 50s dBA average). Two train pass-bys lasting a total of several minutes (high 60s dBA average, 80s dBA peak from horn). Location #2 Residential facing Giaramita Street 1:55 pm – 2:05 pm 12/14/23 45.2 47.8 60.8 61.5 81.0 Low traffic activity on Giaramita Street (vehicle pass-by peaks low 60s dBA). One train pass-by lasting a few minutes (low 60s dBA average, 80s dBA peak from horn). Location #3 Residential near east end of Project corridor and Rumrill Boulevard 2:22 pm – 2:32 pm 12/14/23 48.2 53.9 62.1 65.6 69.4 High traffic activity on Rumrill Boulevard (vehicle pass-by peaks high 60s dBA). Traffic noise is the predominant influence for receptors facing Rumrill Boulevard. The decibel (dB) is the standard measure of a sound’s loudness relative to the human threshold of perception. Decibels are said to be A–weighted (dBA) when corrections are made to a sound’s frequency components during a measurement to reflect the known, varying sensitivity of the human ear to different frequencies. The Equivalent Sound Level (Leq) is a constant sound level that carries the same sound energy as the actual time–varying sound over the measurement period. Statistical Sound Levels – Lmin, L90, L10 and Lmax – are the minimum sound level, the sound level exceeded 90% of the time, the sound level exceeded 10% of the time and the maximum sound level, respectively; all as recorded during the 10-minute measurement periods. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 88 For most of the time when the SLM was recording either on the Verde school site or in the residential neighborhood to the south, measured noise levels were relatively low (i.e., high 40s -low 50s dBA) because no high-traffic roadways cross or closely approach either the school site or the residential neighborhood measurement location, and because there was no outdoor activity in the play areas near the school measurement location at the eastern school property line. There was play activity in the outdoor areas west of the school buildings, but with negligible noise effect on the measurement due to distance from the SLM and the attenuation provided by the school buildings. The most considerable noise influence came from train activity on the two railroad lines that pass closely east of the Project. There were three train pass-bys during both measurements, each pass being a few minutes long during which the average noise levels rose into the low to mid-60s dBA with momentary peak levels in the mid-80s dBA as the trains sounded horns as they approached the railroad crossings at Market Avenue. At the other measurement location near existing residential along Rumrill Boulevard, the dominant noise influence (i.e., low 60s dBA) was the relatively high motor vehicle traffic volume on that roadway. From Off-Road Construction Equipment Project construction would temporarily increase ambient noise levels on the Project Site and in its nearby vicinity. Each project construction phase would have its characteristic equipment mix and duration of use (as specified in the Project Description) and its locus of work activity would vary on the Project Site and in relation to the noise-sensitive uses that surround it over the course of a workday over each phase. Equipment noise levels by Project phase were modeled using the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHWA) Roadway Construction Noise Model (RCNM) assuming the 2-3 dominant equipment types per phase were operating simultaneously in close proximity to each other at the chosen distances from a receptor, as shown TABLE 2 - 7. In actuality, the operation of such equipment would not be constant throughout the workday, so the data are highest possible workday average noise level affecting a receptor at the specified distance if all equipment operated continuously there during the day. Given that the District and City General Plans/Ordinances have not set maximum quantitative standards at noise-sensitive receptors near construction sites, a reasonable choice for a standard for this CEQA analysis would be a daytime noise level that is clearly above local weekday average weekday levels, and which could demonstrably interfere with normal outdoor activities of the school and residences. Noise measurements at the school and southern residential area show that noise levels most of the time (on a weekday early afternoon) were in the low to mid-50s dBA, except during train passes when the average noise levels went up to the mid-60’s dBA with brief peaks from horn blasts exceeding 80 dBA (a likely common daily occurrence given that three such train pass-bys occurred during an hour of the site survey). Noise from train operations are commonly regarded as disruptive, which would argue for regarding frequent noise intrusions in the mid-60s and above from project construction as a substantial additional burden on school and residential tranquility. Such a choice would be supported by the EPA’s Protective Noise Levels, which found that speech intelligibility in outdoor environments begins to decline rapidly when background noise levels begin to exceed 65 dBA. Conversely, intrusive Project noise would have no substantial effects in areas where existing average levels are commonly Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 89 higher than the intrusive levels. Thus, project construction phases that take place on portions of the site that are sufficiently distant from local sensitive receptors would have no substantial noise impacts. Based on the survey noise measurements, this would occur when work areas are 500 feet or more from the Verde School or any local residences. TABLE 2 - 7: MODELED NOISE LEVELS DURING PROJECT CONSTRUCTION PHASES Project Phase /Duration Dominant Equipment Modeled Noise Level at x feet from work activity locus (dBA) 50 feet 100 feet 200 feet 400 feet 800 feet Site Preparation/ 1 week Dozer Scraper (2) 83.8 77.8 71.8 65.8 59.7* Sediment Basin Clearing/ 2 weeks Excavator Front Loader Truck 79.9 73.9 67.8 61.8 55.8* Fish Passage** Structure/ 6 weeks Excavator Jackhammer 83.1** 77.0** 71.0** 65.0** 59.0* Sediment Basin/ 6 weeks Dozer Front Loader Truck 80.4 74.4 68.3 62.3 56.3* Upstream** Channel Modifications/ 2 weeks Excavator Front Loader Truck 79.9** 73.9** 67.8** 61.8 55.8* Community Amenities/ 4 weeks Dozer Backhoe Truck 80.0 73.9 67.9 61.9 55.9* Site Clean- Up/Revegetation/ 2 weeks Grader 81.0 75.0 69.0 63.0 56.9* *For all project construction phases, at a distance of 800 feet from the equipment work locus modeled construction noise levels would be below the measured average local background levels. **For the Project Fish Passage and Channel Modifications phases, the main work sites are 400 feet or more from the nearest sensitive receptors; modeled sound levels at closer distances would be above the average measured local background levels, but there are no sensitive receptors there to be affected. Considering that the entire duration of project construction is about 6 months and that the purpose of the Project is improved natural habitat for local fish population and improved recreational facilities for local residents, in most cases the proposed mitigations would reduce outdoor noise levels in facing areas of the adjacent school and residential neighborhoods. But in cases where work is necessary in areas close to the school and homes, and with sufficient notice by the Project contractor, short-term voluntary shifts by residents and students/faculty/staff to less-affected outdoor or indoor spaces could Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 90 be accommodated without substantial inconvenience to allow normal community activity to continue until the more intensive project construction stages are complete. The Project would follow the most conservative hours set forth by local municipal governments, which would be Contra Costa County’s working hours for construction activities from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday for grading activities within 500-ft of sensitive receptors, and elsewhere onsite weekday hours of seven a.m. to six p.m. consistent with the Contra Costa County and City of San Pablo General Plans and Codes. If allowable work (i.e. non-grading) is necessary outside of these hours, the City and County shall both approve the extended work hours, and the Resident Engineer will be available to address any noise concerns during construction. Mitigation Measure NOISE-1a would be implemented to limit construction noise emissions and work activity and Mitigation Measure NOISE-1b and Avoidance and Minimization Measure AQ-1 would be implemented to reduce exposure of noise to sensitive receptors. Therefore, the impact would be less- than-significant with mitigation incorporated. From On-Road Trucks Hauling Debris, Fill, and Concrete to/from the Project Site During project construction, a considerable number of truck operations would occur, specifically: •Sediment Removal from the existing Sediment Basin, Sediment Basin Expansion, and Site Cleanup construction phases would require about 76 daily truck trips hauling debris from the Project Site to landfill averaged over 125 working days. •Fish Passage, Sediment Basin and Channel Modification phases would require about 13 daily truck trips hauling fill from external sources to the Project Site averaged over 35 working days. •Fish Passage, Channel Structure and Community Amenities phases would require about 10 daily truck trips hauling concrete to the Project Site averaged over 35 working days. Such trucks’ frequent close passage of the Verde Elementary School and through the existing residential neighborhood to the south of Wildcat Creek and the Project Site would be a source of frequent nuisance and disruption from the noise they emit. But with the implementation of Mitigation Measure NOISE-2 below, this impact would be less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. Impact NOISE-1: The Project could temporarily or periodically increase ambient noise levels during construction, negatively impacting nearby sensitive receptors. Mitigation Measure NOISE-1a: Limit Construction Noise Emissions/Intrusions The Project shall implement the following BMPs: •Require all construction equipment to conform to Section 14-8.02 Noise Control of the latest Caltrans Standard Specifications. This requires all internal combustion engine driven equipment to be equipped with intake and exhaust mufflers that are in good condition and Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 91 appropriate for the equipment, and provide shrouding or shielding for impact tools (i.e., jackhammers). Utilize ‘quiet’ air compressors and other ‘quiet’ equipment where such technology exists. •Provide sound-control devices on equipment no less effective than those provided by the manufacturer. •Locate stationary equipment, material stockpiles, and vehicle staging areas as far as practicable from sensitive receptors. •Require applicable construction-related vehicles and equipment to use designated truck routes when entering/leaving the site. •Designate a County representative to serve as a noise (and vibration) disturbance coordinator who shall be responsible for responding to complaints about noise (and vibration) during construction. The telephone number of the noise disturbance coordinator shall be conspicuously posted at the construction site. Provide notification to the adjacent noise- sensitive receptors (residences and Verde Elementary), including the anticipated construction schedule and contact number for the designated noise disturbance coordinator who can address noise complaints. •Limit project construction activity to the weekday hours of 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. consistent with the Contra Costa County and City of San Pablo General Plans and Codes. If work is necessary outside of these hours, the City and County shall both approve the extended work hours, and the Resident Engineer shall be available to address any noise concerns during construction. Mitigation Measure NOISE-1b: Inform Local School Authorities and Residents of Likely High Noise Periods during Project Construction •When project construction work lasting more than a week is necessary in areas of the Project Site close to (i.e., within 200 feet of) the Verde Elementary School and existing homes facing the site south of Wildcat Creek, the Project contractor shall provide a minimum of 3-days’ notice to school and residents and advise them on short-term shifts to less-affected outdoor play/recreation spaces or to other indoor rooms less exposed to the direct noise from the construction activity until the more noise-intensive project construction stages are complete. Impact NOISE-2: Truck travel for the project would be a source of frequent nuisance and disruption from the noise they emit to sensitive receptors. Mitigation Measure NOISE-2: Minimize Project haul truck access to the site from low-volume roads near sensitive receptors. Haul trucks (i.e., trucks transporting debris, fill, and other materials on and off-site) shall access the site from the north via Rumrill Boulevard and Brookside Drive, which pass through largely commercial/industrial areas. Haul trucks shall not access the site through the southern access route of Giaramita Street and the Wildcat Creek Trail, which pass sensitive receptors, except for emergency access. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 92 b)Would the Project result in generation of excessive groundborne vibration or groundborne noise levels? The most vibration-intensive piece of construction equipment is a pile driver, but no pile driving would be required for the Project. Other types of construction equipment are far less vibration- intensive. Next in intensity are heavily loaded trucks or large tracked earth-moving equipment, which could pose a damage or annoyance threat if they regularly and often come close to vibration-sensitive receptors during construction. The existing school west of the Project Site and the existing residential uses south of the Project Site would be potential targets for vibration damage and occupant annoyance from heavy construction equipment movements. But Project construction would not require substantial heavy equipment operating for long periods close to the school or residential areas. Dozers would likely be the most vibration-intensive equipment types required for the site preparation, sediment basin and cleanup phases. In TABLE 2 - 8, FTA vibration screening methodology has been applied to the most vibration-intensive construction equipment likely to be regularly used on the Project Site. Vibration levels during work on Project Site areas closest to the sensitive receptors (about 50-100 feet distant) would be far below the range where there would be any potential for on-going substantial annoyance (80 VdB) or structural damage (94 VdB) project construction activity. TABLE 2 - 8: MODELED CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT VIBRATION LEVELS Modeled vibration level at x feet from work activity locus (VdB) Equipment Type 25 feet 100 feet 200 feet 300 feet Bulldozer 87 69 60 55 Loaded Heavy Truck 86 68 59 54 Source: Federal Transit Administration (FTA), Transit Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment (2018). Thus, the Project would not result in the generation of excessive groundborne vibration, and the impact would be less-than-significant. c)For a Project located within the vicinity of a private airstrip or an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the Project expose people residing or working in the Project area to excessive noise levels? The Project Site is not within two miles of a public airport or public use airport. The closest public airports are Gnoss Field Airport, located approximately 16.5 miles northwest of the Project Site, and Buchanan Field Airport, located approximately 16.5 miles east of the Project Site. Oakland International Airport is located approximately 18.5 miles southeast of the Project Site.The Project is about 18.5 miles north of Oakland International Airport and is not under any of its main approach/departure routes. Since the Project would not locate new noise-sensitive uses (e.g., residential, commercial, retail) near any local airports, the Project would not expose people residing or working in the Project area to excessive noise levels. Therefore, there would be no impact. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 93 Sources of Information Contra Costa County. 2005. Contra Costa County General Plan 2005-2020. Contra Costa County Community Development Department. Martinez, CA. Website: https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/4732/General-Plan Contra Costa County. 2023. Contra Costa County Code of Ordinances. Website: https://library.municode.com/ca/contra_costa_county/codes/ordinance_code?nodeId=COCOC OCO City of Richmond. 2012. City of Richmond General Plan 2030. Website: https://www.ci.richmond.ca.us/2608/General-Plan-2030 City of San Pablo. 2022. City of San Pablo Municipal Code. Website: https://www.codepublishing.com/CA/SanPablo/ United States Environmental Protection Agency. 1978. Protective Noise Levels. Website: https://nepis.epa.gov/Exe/ZyNET.exe/20012HG5.txt?ZyActionD=ZyDocument&Client=EPA &Index=1976%20Thru%201980&Docs=&Query=&Time=&EndTime=&SearchMethod=1& TocRestrict=n&Toc=&TocEntry=&QField=&QFieldYear=&QFieldMonth=&QFieldDay=& UseQField=&IntQFieldOp=0&ExtQFieldOp=0&XmlQuery=&File=D%3A%5CZYFILES%5 CINDEX%20DATA%5C76THRU80%5CTXT%5C00000008%5C20012HG5.txt&User=AN ONYMOUS&Password=anonymous&SortMethod=h%7C- &MaximumDocuments=1&FuzzyDegree=0&ImageQuality=r75g8/r75g8/x150y150g16/i425 &Display=hpfr&DefSeekPage=x&SearchBack=ZyActionL&Back=ZyActionS&BackDesc=R esults%20page&MaximumPages=1&ZyEntry=1 Federal Highway Administration. 2006. Roadway Construction Noise Model User’s Guide. Website: https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/noise/construction_noise/rcnm/rcnm.pdf Federal Transit Administration. 2018. Source: Transit Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment. Website: https://www.transit.dot.gov/sites/fta.dot.gov/files/docs/research- innovation/118131/transit-noise-and-vibration-impact-assessment-manual-fta-report-no- 0123_0.pdf Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 94 Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 14.POPULATION AND HOUSING – Would the Project: a)Induce substantial unplanned population growth in an area, either directly (e.g., by proposing new homes and businesses) or indirectly (e.g., through extension of roads or other infrastructure)? b)Displace substantial numbers of existing people or housing, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? POPULATION AND HOUSING SUMMARY a)Would the Project induce substantial unplanned population growth in an area, either directly (e.g., by proposing new homes and businesses) or indirectly (e.g., through extension of roads or other infrastructure)? The Project would not induce substantial unplanned population growth because it does not propose changes to land uses that would result in new residences or businesses, nor would it extend roads or other infrastructure. During the 125 day construction period, it is estimated that a team of 10, and up to 15 construction workers would be employed. Due to the short construction period, no additional regional accommodations would be needed. Therefore, the Project would have no impact. b)Would the Project displace substantial numbers of existing people or housing, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? The Project would not displace anyone or any housing. The Project would restore and enhance natural habitats in an area with no residences and would not displace existing people or housing. Residences south of the Project would be affected and would not be displaced due to the Project. Therefore, no housing would need to be constructed due to displacement of existing housing, and there would be no impact. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 95 Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 15.PUBLIC SERVICES – Would the Project result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times or other performance objectives for any of the public services: a)Fire Protection? b)Police Protection? c)Schools? d)Parks? e)Other public facilities? PUBLIC SERVICES SUMMARY Would the Project result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times or other performance objectives for any of the public services: a)Fire Protection? Fire protection and general rescue services in the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County are provided by the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District (CCCFPD). In total, CCCFPD operates 23 fire stations, serving a population of 600,000 people across a 304 square-mile area. In particular, the industrial businesses in the Project vicinity are served by CCCFPD. In the event of a fire emergency, Fire Station 62 in Richmond, CA would respond. The Project would not impact response times for fire protection. Because construction activities would be short-term and temporary and would involve a workforce of approximately 10 to 15 construction workers on any given day, these workers would either already live in nearby communities or would not relocate to the nearby communities for the construction work. Therefore, project construction would not significantly increase demand for fire protection services throughout the Project vicinity due to population growth and would not change any uses on the site. For these reasons, the Project would not be expected to substantially affect CCCFPD’s ability to maintain service ratios, response times, other performance objectives, such that new or physically altered facilities would be required. For these reasons, the Project’s impact with respect to the provision of fire service would be less-than- significant. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 96 b)Police Protection? The Project Site is served by the Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff. The nearest County Sheriff’s office is 62 Station at 1065 7th Street in the City of Richmond, approximately 0.92 miles south of the Project Site, which serves the Project area. The Project would not impact response times for police protection. For the reasons provided in response to question a), above, the Project would not be expected to substantially affect the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office’s ability to maintain service ratios, response times, other performance objectives, such that new or physically altered facilities would be required. For these reasons, the Project’s impact with respect to the provision of police protection facilities would be less-than- significant. c)Schools? The Project would not impact service ratios for schools. The Project would result in a small temporary increase in construction worker employees in the Project area. The construction workers would most likely be from nearby communities and would not require new or modification of existing school facilities. There would be no impact to schools. d)Parks? The Project would not impact service ratios for parks. The nearest park or recreational area is North Richmond Ballpark, located approximately 1,120 feet west of the Project Site. For the reasons described in response to question a), above, the Project would not result in increased population such that there would be additional demand for parks facilities during or after construction. Additionally, the Project would increase the available public access on site through the community amenity components of the Project. Impacts related to the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities from the construction of the community amenities are addressed throughout this document, particularly in Section 4 Biological Resources, Section 5 Cultural Resources, Section 7 Geology/Soils, and Section 10 Hydrology/Water Quality. Impacts related to increasing public access are addressed in other sections of this document, particularly in Section 16, Recreation. Therefore, the Project would have no impact related to the need for new or physically altered parks and recreational facilities. e)Other public facilities? Libraries: The Project would result in a small temporary increase in construction worker employees in the Project area. The construction workers would most likely be from nearby communities and would not require new libraries. There would be no impact to libraries. Health Facilities: The Project would result in a small temporary increase in construction worker employees in the Project area. The construction workers would most likely be from nearby communities and would not require new or modification of health facilities. There would be no impact to health facilities. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 97 Flood Management: As a flood management Project, the Project would require the provision of new or altered physical facilities. However, this is a direct impact of the Project and not an incidental indirect impact stemming from the implementation of the Project. Impacts related to the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities from the construction of the fish passage structure and sediment basin are addressed throughout this document, particularly in Section 4 Biological Resources, Section 5 Cultural Resources, Section 7 Geology/Soils, and Section 10 Hydrology/Water Quality. The Project would have less-than-significant impact on flood management facilities. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 98 Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 16.RECREATION – Would the Project: a)Increase the use of existing neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities such that substantial physical deterioration of the facility would occur or be accelerated? b)Include recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities, which might have an adverse physical effect on the environment? RECREATION SUMMARY a)Would the Project increase the use of existing neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities such that substantial physical deterioration of the facility would occur or be accelerated? The Project would not result in the increase of use of existing neighborhood parks or other recreational facilities. The neighborhood parks located closest to the Project area are North Richmond Ballpark and John Herbert Davis Park, located 1,340 feet west and 1,800 feet east, respectively. The existing conditions of the Project are not recreational in nature, and the Project is not residential, so the Project would not bring additional toll on the existing neighborhood parks during and after project construction. In addition to this, the Project includes components that will increase the amount of recreational use in and near the Project Site. These components include a mini park that would include an artificial turf play area with mounds, tree stump seating, and wood platform benches at varying heights, as well as a fish passage overlook section that would include a wildlife play sculpture, seat walls, tree stump seating, and educational signage. Therefore, there would be no impact. b)Does the Project include recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities, which might have an adverse physical effect on the environment? As discussed elsewhere in other sections of this document, the Project includes recreational facilities, some of which may have impacts on the environment. The specific types of impacts, and mitigation measures identified to minimize or avoid significant impacts, are discussed in the other resource sections of this document corresponding to the affected topic area (e.g., Section 2.2.2, Air Quality; Section 2.2.4, Biological Resources; Section 2.2.13, Noise; and Section 2.2.17, Transportation). Refer to those sections for specific discussions of potential physical adverse effects on the environment and their respective resource-specific mitigations. Therefore, the impact would be less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 99 Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 17.TRANSPORTATION – Would the Project: a)Conflict with a program, plan, ordinance or policy addressing the circulation system, including transit, roadway, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities? b)Conflict or be inconsistent with CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.3(b)? c)Substantially increase hazards due to a geometric design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)? d)Result in inadequate emergency access? TRANSPORTATION SUMMARY a)Would the Project conflict with a program, plan, ordinance or policy addressing the circulation system, including transit, roadway, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities? The Contra Costa County Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan (CBPP) applies to the Project. The CBPP identifies pedestrian priority areas where more people are expected to walk and where safety issues are most acute, defines the Countywide Bikeway Network, and outlines best practices for developing pedestrian and bicycle facilities (Contra Costa Transportation Authority 2018). The Project is located within a pedestrian priority area, as it is located within ¼ mile of Verde Elementary School. By preserving and improving the Wildcat Creek trail through this area, the Project would not conflict with the CBPP. The majority of the Project will take place in the flood control channel, which is not open to cars owned by the public. Construction activities that would generate off-site traffic to local roads would include the delivery of construction vehicles and equipment to the Project Site, the daily arrival and departure of construction workers, and the delivery of materials throughout the construction period. Construction equipment would be delivered to and removed from the Project Site in phases for the different construction activities. Over the course of the Project’s 125 working days, the maximum daily truck trips would be approximately 125 trips per day, including 30 worker trips and 95 maximum daily truck trips for the Project. Construction-generated traffic would be temporary, and therefore, would not result in any long-term degradation in operating conditions on any locally used roadways for the Project. The impact of construction-related traffic would be temporary and result in intermittent reduction of the capacities of streets in the Project area because of the slower movements and larger turning radii of construction trucks compared to passenger vehicles. Drivers could experience delays if they were traveling behind a heavy truck. Project construction-related traffic would not be substantial in relation to traffic flow conditions on local access roadways. The Project trips would fall within the daily fluctuations of Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 100 traffic volumes of the local-serving roadways serving the construction site. Therefore, the impact on traffic flow would be less-than-significant. All of the existing Wildcat Creek Trail along the sediment basin will be closed during the construction activities, and the path will be demolished and realigned slightly further to the north. The Wildcat Creek trail is a paved trail that runs from the Wildcat Marsh Staging area east 1.2 miles to the eastern end of our Project Site, terminating at the UPRR railroad tracks. The Wildcat Creek trail is considered a stub of the Bay Trail as it runs along the Richmond Parkway. It is a multi-use hiking and bicycle trail that is managed and maintained by the EBRPD, who will be advised of the Project, and will be advised of path closures. Pedestrians and bike riders using the recreational trail for alternative transportation will be temporarily affected by the Project; however, alternate street routes are available around the affected portion of the trail. Once constructed, the Project’s recreational components are expected to attract residents and students of Verde Elementary School nearby. Visitors would likely be local, and it would not significantly increase the amount of travel in the area. In addition to visitors, existing maintenance inspections and periodic maintenance of the channel and sediment basin would continue as necessary and would likely be less frequent under new Project conditions. This would require some travel by maintenance workers, but it would be the same if not less than current existing conditions. Based on the discussion above, Project would not conflict with any adopted policies, plans, or programs related to public transit or bicycle and pedestrian facilities, nor would it affect the safety of such services/facilities due to the Project construction’s temporary and low-level nature. Therefore, the impact would be less-than-significant. b)Would the Project conflict or be inconsistent with CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.3(b)? The Project would not conflict or be inconsistent with CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.3(b), which is required to establish criteria for determining the significance of transportation impacts. The Contra Costa County Transportation Analysis Guidelines provide the technical guidance and criteria required for assessing of VMT, determining thresholds of significance, and outlining mitigation measures for land development and transportation Projects. The guidelines state that the following types of Projects should be expected to cause a less-than-significant impact under CEQA and would not require further VMT analysis: 1.Projects that: a.Generate or attract fewer than 110 daily vehicle trips; or b.Projects of 10,000 square feet or less of non-residential space or 20 residential units or less, or otherwise generating less than 836 VMT per day. 2.Residential, retail, office Projects, or mixed-use Projects proposed within ½ mile of an existing major transit stop or an existing stop along a high-quality transit corridor. 3.Residential Projects (home-based VMT) at 15% or below the baseline County-wide home- based average VMT per capita, or employment Projects (employee VMT) at 15% or below the baseline Bay Area average commute VMT per employee in areas with low VMT that incorporate similar VMT reducing features (i.e., density, mix of uses, transit accessibility). Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 101 4.Public facilities (e.g. emergency services, passive parks (low-intensity recreation, open space), libraries, community centers, public utilities) and government buildings. As discussed in Section 3. Air Quality of this document, the Project would generate less than 110 daily vehicle trips during construction, and the number of vehicle trips for any maintenance trips would be equal to or less frequent than what is currently needed for the Project Site. Therefore, the Project would be consistent and not conflict with CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.3(b) under the transportation analysis guidelines set by Contra Costa County by being exempt from further VMT analysis. Therefore, the impact would be less-than-significant. c)Would the Project substantially increase hazards due to a geometric design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)? The Project would not substantially increase hazards due to a geometric design or incompatible uses. The Project does not include any roadway construction; therefore, there would be no increased hazards due to geometric design features. The land uses adjacent to and included in the Project Site are light industrial and residential. The nearest residences are located 550 feet southwest of the Project Site. As such, the temporary introduction of construction equipment required to construct the Project on roadways in and around the Project Site would be compatible with existing uses and would not pose a safety hazard. Furthermore, the Project does not propose to make any changes to public roadways. Therefore, there would be no impact. d)Would the Project result in inadequate emergency access? The Project would not block any access roads or include increased construction vehicle access such that the Project would result in a reduction in emergency access. project construction would allow adequate access to the Project Site in the event of an emergency. Therefore, the Project would not result in inadequate emergency access. As described under Transportation impact discussion a), increased Project-related operational traffic would not cause a significant increase in congestion and would not significantly affect roadway operations. Furthermore, the Project would not require closures of public roads, which could inhibit access by emergency vehicles. During construction of the Project, heavy construction-related vehicles could interfere with emergency response to the site or emergency evacuation procedures in the event of an emergency (e.g., slowing vehicles traveling behind the truck). However, given that there are no businesses or emergency response stations and only a limited number of residences in the immediate vicinity of the Project Site, it is not likely that heavy construction-related traffic would result in inadequate emergency access. Therefore, the impact would be less-than-significant. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 102 Sources of Information Contra Costa County. 2005. Contra Costa County General Plan 2005-2020: Chapter 5 Transportation and Circulation Element. Website: https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/4732/General-Plan. Accessed January 6, 2023. Contra Costa Transportation Authority. 2018. Contra Costa Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan. Website: https://ccta.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/5b8ec26192756.pdf. Accessed January 31, 2023. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 103 Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 18.TRIBAL CULTURAL RESOURCES – Would the Project cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a tribal cultural resource, defined in Public Resources Code section 21074 as either a site, feature, place, cultural landscape that is geographically defined in terms of the size and scope of the landscape, sacred place, or object with cultural value to a California Native American tribe, and that is: a)Listed or eligible for listing in the California Register of Historical Resources, or in a local register of historical resources as defined in Public Resources Code section 5020.1(k)? b)A resource determined by the lead agency, in its discretion and supported by substantial evidence, to be significant pursuant to criteria set forth in subdivision (c) of Public Resources Code Section 5024.1? TRIBAL CULTURAL RESOURCES SUMMARY Would the Project cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a tribal cultural resource, defined in Public Resources Code section 21074 as either a site, feature, place, cultural landscape that is geographically defined in terms of the size and scope of the landscape, sacred place, or object with cultural value to a California Native American tribe, and that is: a)Listed or eligible for listing in the California Register of Historical Resources, or in a local register of historical resources as defined in Public Resources Code section 5020.1(k)? As discussed in Section IV, no listed or eligible resources or on the District’s local register of historical resources are present in the Project Site. However, the presence of sub-surface resources could not be ruled out. Inadvertent discovery of tribal cultural resources could result in a significant impact. Implementation of Mitigation Measure CUL-1, CUL-2, and CUL-3, included in Section V. Cultural Resources, would reduce potentially significant impacts to less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. b)A resource determined by the lead agency, in its discretion and supported by substantial evidence, to be significant pursuant to criteria set forth in subdivision (c) of Public Resources Code Section 5024.1? Tribal cultural resources are: 1) sites, features, places, cultural landscapes, sacred places, and objects with cultural value to a California Native American tribe that are listed, or determined to be eligible for listing in the California Register, or local register of historical resources, as defined in PRC Section 5020.1(k); or, 2) a resource determined by the lead CEQA agency, in its discretion and supported by substantial evidence, to be significant pursuant to criteria set forth in PRC Section 5024.1(c). For a cultural landscape to be considered a tribal cultural resource, it must be geographically defined in Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 104 terms of the size and scope of the landscape (PRC Section 21074[b]). Also, a historical resource, as defined in PRC Section 21084.1, unique archaeological resource, as defined in PRC Section 21083.2(g), or non-unique archaeological resource, as defined in PRC Section 21083.2(h), may also be a tribal cultural resource. AB 52 formally added the category of “tribal cultural resources” to CEQA and extends the consultation and confidentiality requirements to all Projects, rather than just Projects subject to SB 18. The Confederated Villages of Lisjan Nation (CVLN) and the Wilton Rancheria Tribe have submitted a general request letter to be notified of projects within Contra Costa County under AB52. On November 10, 2022, an offer to consult was sent to the AB52 contact designated in the general request letters. The record of correspondence (all via email) and meeting dates is described below. On November 14, 2022, Confederated Villages of Lisjan Nation requested records search results and cultural resources information. A series of seven consultation meetings occurred between the District and CVLN. At these meetings, the methods for subsurface investigation, likelihood of buried resources, results of investigations and avoidance, mitigation, and monitoring measures. were discussed. Based on the results, CVLN recommended that archaeological and tribal monitoring take place during excavation at depths below the depths that the ground penetrating radar could reach, and made additional recommendations for Mitigation Measures. On February 14, 2024, the District emailed CVLN revised Mitigation Measures. A final consultation meeting occurred February 28, 2024, during which the mitigation measures were agreed upon. The Mitigation Measures agreed upon are as written in Section V.b. Therefore, implementation of Mitigation Measure CUL-1, CUL-2, and CUL-3 would reduce impacts to less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 105 Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 19.UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS – Would the Project: a)Require or result in the relocation or construction of new or expanded water, wastewater treatment, or storm water drainage, electric power, natural gas, or telecommunication facilities, the construction or relocation of which could cause significant environmental effects? b)Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the Project and reasonably foreseeable future development during normal, dry, and multiple dry years? c)Result in a determination by the wastewater treatment provider, which serves or may serve the Project that it has adequate capacity to serve the Project’s Projected demand in addition to the provider’s existing commitments? d)Generate solid waste in excess of State or local standards, or in excess of the capacity of local infrastructure, or otherwise impair the attainment of solid waste reduction goals? e)Comply with federal, state, and local management and reduction statutes and regulations related to solid waste? UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS SUMMARY a)Would the Project require or result in the relocation or construction of new or expanded water, wastewater treatment, or storm water drainage, electric power, natural gas, or telecommunication facilities, the construction or relocation of which could cause significant environmental effects? The Project would require the relocation of a PG&E utility pole. The utility pole is located within the footprint of the expanded sediment basin and will need to be shifted north by approximately 50 feet. There would be no change in sizing from this relocation and the new location would still be within the disturbed ground of the District corporation yard. All other existing utilities are beneath the maximum excavation depths of the Project and would not be disturbed by Project activities. All utilities would be appropriately marked in the field and their owners notified before construction begins; for these other utilities, no relocation is necessary. The Project’s recreational components would include some lighting in the form of 2-to-4-foot-tall trailside fixtures for providing evening/nighttime lighting of the trail. This lighting would require a small amount of electricity power. New underground electricity lines would need to be added to tie into existing electricity service. These utility lines will be at the standard depth for low-voltage wiring (minimum of 6 inches) and will likely require some trenching or trenchless drilling that will follow Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 106 along the Wildcat Creek Trail alignment. The utility locations will be marked in the field. Therefore, the impact would be less-than-significant. b)Would the Project have sufficient water supplies available to serve the Project and reasonably foreseeable future development during normal, dry, and multiple dry years? The Project will not require water service, and water trucks from off-site water sources would provide any water needed during construction activities, including dust control. The Project would retrofit the existing fish ladder and sediment basin, and would include some recreational components. No Project components would require water supplies during operational use. Therefore, the impact would be less-than-significant. c)Would the Project result in a determination by the wastewater treatment provider, which serves or may serve the Project that it has adequate capacity to serve the Project’s Projected demand in addition to the provider’s existing commitments? The Project components would not result in wastewater that would need to be treated. Therefore, there would be no impact. d)Would the Project generate solid waste in excess of State or local standards, or in excess of the capacity of local infrastructure, or otherwise impair the attainment of solid waste reduction goals? The Project would generate approximately 8,637 tons of offhaul material that would need to be disposed of or reused. Sediment and vegetative matter will be removed during excavation, which may be either temporarily stockpiled on site, transferred to another user, or disposed of at an appropriate waste facility. The District has active solid waste facilities with capacity to accommodate any construction waste that may be generated (CalRecycle 2019). In addition, Project contract specifications will require that the Contractor dispose of solid waste, including sediment, in accordance with all federal, state and local regulations. Therefore, the impact would be less-than- significant. e)Would the Project comply with federal, state, and local management and reduction statutes and regulations related to solid waste? As stated above, the Project would generate offhaul material that would be disposed of at County solid waste facilities. The Project would comply with all federal, state, and local management and reduction statutes and regulations related to solid waste. Therefore, there would be no impact. Sources of Information California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle 2019). 2019. Walnut Website: https://www2.calrecycle.ca.gov/SolidWaste/Site/Search. Accessed January 12, 2023. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 107 Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 20.WILDFIRE – If located in or near state responsibility areas or lands classified as very high fire hazard severity zones, would the Project: a)Substantially impair an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan? b)Due to slope, prevailing winds, and other factors, exacerbate wildfire risks, and thereby, expose Project occupants to pollutant concentrations from a wildfire or the uncontrolled spread of a wildfire? c)Require the installation or maintenance of associated infrastructure (such as roads, fuel breaks, emergency water sources, power lines or other utilities) that may exacerbate fire risk or that may result in temporary or ongoing impacts to the environment? d)Expose people or structures to significant risks, including downslope or downstream flooding or landslides, as a result of runoff, post-fire slope instability, or drainage changes? WILDFIRE SUMMARY If located in or near state responsibility areas or lands classified as very high fire hazard severity zones, would the Project: a)Substantially impair an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan? The Project will not change the nature of the Project Site. Emergency vehicles will have access at all times during construction. Therefore, Project will have no impact. b)Due to slope, prevailing winds, and other factors, exacerbate wildfire risks, and thereby, expose Project occupants to pollutant concentrations from a wildfire or the uncontrolled spread of a wildfire? The Project Site is mostly flat and is surrounded by light industrial and residential areas on relatively flat areas, and the surrounding area lacks woodlands or vegetation that could provide fuel load for wildfire, or steep slopes that could cause fire to spread more rapidly. The Project would not exacerbate wildfire risk. According to CAL FIRE, the Project Site is not located in a State Responsibility Area (SRA) or a Local Responsibility Area (LRA) Fire Hazard Severity Zone. The nearest Fire Hazard Severity Zone is located approximately two miles southeast of the Project Site (Wildcat Canyon Regional Park) and is designated as a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. Given that the Project Site is not located on or Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 108 near steep terrain surrounded by natural vegetation, is mostly surrounded by light industrial and residential uses, and does not consistently experience high winds, the Project Site would not be prone to wildfires. The Project will not change the nature of the Project Site. No improvements are proposed that would exacerbate a wildfire risk. Construction activities may result in unanticipated fires; however, the Project construction contractor will have a fire safety plan and will be equipped appropriately. Therefore, the impact would be less-than-significant. c)Require the installation or maintenance of associated infrastructure (such as roads, fuel breaks, emergency water sources, power lines or other utilities) that may exacerbate fire risk or that may result in temporary or ongoing impacts to the environment? The Project will not change the nature of the Project Site. Construction activities, including utility relocations, may result in unanticipated fires. However, the Project construction contractor will have a fire safety plan and will be equipped appropriately. Therefore, Project impacts will be less than significant. d)Expose people or structures to significant risks, including downslope or downstream flooding or landslides, as a result of runoff, post-fire slope instability, or drainage changes? The Project will not change the nature of the Project Site. Therefore, the Project will have no impact. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 109 Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 21.MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE a)Does the Project have the potential to substantially degrade the quality of the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community, substantially reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal, or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory? b)Does the Project have impacts that are individually limited, but cumulatively considerable? (“Cumulatively considerable” means that the incremental effects of a Project are considerable when viewed in connection with the effects of past Projects, the effects of other current Projects, and the effects of probable future Projects.) c)Does the Project have environmental effects, which will cause substantial adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly? MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE SUMMARY a)Does the Project have the potential to substantially degrade the quality of the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community, substantially reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal, or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory? As discussed in Section IV. Biological Resources, implementation of Mitigation Measures BIO-1 through BIO-6 would ensure that project construction and subsequent maintenance and operation activities would not 1) substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species; 2) cause a fish or wildlife species population to drop below self-sustaining levels; 3) threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community; or 4) reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal. As discussed in Section V. Cultural Resources, implementation of Mitigation Measures CUL- 1 and CUL-2 would ensure that the Project does not eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory. Implementation of Mitigation Measures CUL-1, CUL-2, and CUL-3 would also ensure that potentially significant impacts to tribal cultural resources would be reduced to less-than-significant levels. In addition to these mitigation measures, mitigation measures would be implemented as described in the air quality, geology, and hazards sections to reduce other Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Project No. 7505-6F8101 110 impacts to less-than-significant levels. Therefore, the Project impacts would be less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. b)Does the Project have impacts that are individually limited, but cumulatively considerable? (“Cumulatively considerable” means that the incremental effects of a Project are considerable when viewed in connection with the effects of past Projects, the effects of other current Projects, and the effects of probable future Projects.) As noted throughout this document, the potential impacts of the Project are largely restricted to temporary and short-term construction-related impacts and are site-specific. As noted in answer a) of this section, all of the potential direct and indirect impacts of the Project were determined to be fully avoided or reduced to a less-than-significant level with incorporation of avoidance and minimization measure AQ-1 and mitigation measuresBIO-1 through BIO-6, CUL-1 through CUL-3, HAZ-1 through HAZ-4, and NOISE-1a through NOISE-2. As a result, the potential impacts of the Project are not considered to have cumulatively considerable contributions to other past, present, or probable future Projects, and impacts would be less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. c)Does the Project have environmental effects, which will cause substantial adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly? Most of the potential impacts of the Project would be temporary and short-term. These impacts would be localized to the Project Site and may include limited adverse effects on air quality, biological resources, cultural resources, geology and soils, greenhouse gas emissions, and hazard and hazardous materials. However, the Project would not include any activities or uses that would cause substantial adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly. The Project would adhere to local codes and regulations as conditions of Project approval. Compliance with applicable local, State, and federal standards, as well as incorporation of Project mitigation measures, would result in less-than-significant impacts. The Project would not cause substantial adverse direct or indirect effects on human beings as impacts would be avoided and minimized where possible and mitigated when necessary. Mitigation measures would be implemented as described in the Air Quality, Biological Resources, Cultural Resources, Hazards and Hazardous Materials, Noise, and Tribal Cultural Resources sections. Therefore, Project impacts would be less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 111 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) ATTACHMENTS Attachment 1. Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control District Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 MITIGATION MONITORING REPORTING PLAN The following Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Plan (MMRP) will be implemented as part of the Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project. Contra Costa County Public Works Department (CCCPWD) is responsible for ensuring these measures are implemented by CCCPWD staff and by Contractors working on behalf of CCCPWD. Mitigation, Avoidance, and Minimization Measures (Measures begin on next page) Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control District Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 Impact Mitigation Measure: Implementation Timing Implementation Responsibility Verification Responsibil ity Compliance Verification Date IMPACT AQ-1: Temporary increase in emissions MITIGATION MEASURE AQ-1: Basic Construction Best Management Practices 1.All exposed surfaces (e.g., parking areas, staging areas, soil piles, graded areas, and unpaved access roads) shall be watered two times per day. 2.All haul trucks transporting soil, sand, or other loose material off-site shall be covered. 3.All visible mud or dirt track-out onto adjacent public roads shall be removed using wet power vacuum street sweepers at least once per day. The use of dry power sweeping is prohibited. 4.All vehicle speeds on unpaved roads shall be limited to 15 mph. 5.All roadways, driveways, and sidewalks to be paved shall be completed as soon as possible. 6.Idling times shall be minimized either by shutting equipment off when not in use or reducing the maximum idling time to 5 minutes (as required by the California airborne toxics control measure Title 13, Section 2485 of California Code of Regulations [CCR]). Clear signage shall be provided for construction workers at all access points. 7.All construction equipment shall be maintained and properly tuned in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications. All equipment shall be checked by a certified mechanic and determined to be running in proper condition prior to operation. 8.Post a publicly visible sign with the telephone number and contact information for the designated on-site construction manager available to receive and respond to dust complaints. This person shall report all complaints to Contra Costa County and take immediate corrective action as soon as possible but not more than 48 hours after the complaint is received. The Bay Area Air Quality District’s phone number shall also be visible to ensure compliance with applicable regulations. During construction Contractor and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control District Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 IMPACT BIO-1: Disturbance to special-status species and their habitats MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-1: General Construction-related Mitigation Measures The following best management practices/avoidance and minimization measures would be used for protection of the biological resources within the BSA. 1.Worker Environmental Awareness Training (WEAT): Prior to the start of construction in each year, construction personnel shall be trained by a qualified biologist on all required avoidance and minimization measures as well as permit requirements. 2.Preconstruction surveys for all special status and common wildlife species shall be conducted within the Project area by a qualified biologist immediately prior to equipment or material staging, pruning/grubbing, or surface-disturbing activities. The qualified biologist shall search aquatic vegetation, the water’s surface, leaf litter, logs, snags, and other habitat features for special status and common wildlife species. If species are found, individuals shall be relocated outside of the Project area if the qualified biologist is permitted to do so by all regulatory agencies and determines that relocation is warranted. Although not expected, this includes dewatering activities. If water diversion systems are implemented, a qualified biologist shall be on site to relocate all fish, turtles, invertebrates, and other wildlife observed outside of the work area. 3.Prior to start of construction, temporary high visibility ESA fence shall be placed at the upstream and downstream ends of the Project Site and placed along the southern riparian area to exclude the ESA. The limits shall be staked by a qualified biologist. 4.The District shall require the contractor to prepare a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) for construction activities according to the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Construction General Permit as required under Section 402 of the Clean Water Act. The SWPPP shall identify water pollution control measures and construction- waste containment measures to be implemented during and after project construction, including but not limited to: o Trash generated by the Project shall be promptly and properly removed from the site daily. o Appropriate erosion control measures (e.g., fiber rolls, filter fences, hydroseeding of exposed soils, and mulching) shall be used on site to reduce siltation and runoff of contaminants into jurisdictional waters. Filter fences and mesh shall be of material that shall not entrap reptiles and amphibians. Fiber rolls shall not contain plastics of any kind. Erosion control blankets shall be used as a last resort because of their Prior to and during construction Qualified Biologist and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control District Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 Impact Mitigation Measure: Implementation Timing Implementation Responsibility Verification Responsibil ity Compliance Verification Date tendency to biodegrade slowly and to trap reptiles and amphibians. o No erodible materials shall be deposited into watercourses. Brush, loose soils, or other debris material shall not be stockpiled within stream channels or adjacent to the basin. o Active construction areas shall be watered regularly. o Dredged sediments shall be managed during construction. o A hazardous materials management plan will describe the actions that shall be taken in the event of a spill that could potentially impact jurisdictional waters. Adequate spill containment materials, such as hazardous material absorbent pads and similar materials, shall be available on site at all times. The plan also shall incorporate preventive measures to be implemented (such as vehicle and equipment staging, cleaning, maintenance, and refueling) and contaminant (including fuel) management and storage. 5.All excavated steep-walled holes and trenches more than six inches deep shall be covered with plywood (or similar material) or provided with one or more escape ramps constructed of earth fill or wooden planks at the end of each work-day or 30 minutes prior to sunset, whichever occurs first. All steep-walled holes and trenches shall be inspected by the approved biologist each morning to ensure that no turtles or other wildlife has become entrapped. All construction pipes, culverts, similar structures, construction equipment, and construction debris left overnight shall be inspected for presence of wildlife by a WEAT- trained construction monitor prior to being moved. 6.All slash materials (limbs, branches, and other woody debris) resulting from tree removal activities shall be removed from the Project Site and properly disposed of at an off-site location. 7.Temporarily affected areas shall be restored to pre-Project conditions. Before October 31 and/or immediately after construction is complete, all exposed soils shall be stabilized to reduce the effects of erosion. Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control District Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 Impact Mitigation Measure: Implementation Timing Implementation Responsibility Verification Responsibil ity Compliance Verification Date IMPACT BIO-2: Accidental introduction of new invasive species MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-2: Invasive Species Prevention 1.Only certified noxious weed-free erosion control materials shall be used. All straw and seed material shall be certified as weed- free prior to being used at the Project Site. 2.Contractor shall wash all construction equipment prior to bringing it onto the job site. Inspection shall ensure that equipment arrives on site free of mud and seed-bearing material. 3.Any reseeding of disturbed soil areas and newly constructed slopes shall use an appropriate native seed mix as specified in the plans and specifications. Prior to and during construction Resident engineer and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD IMPACT BIO-3: The Construction impacts to riparian habitat MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-3: Riparian Vegetation Protection 1.A riparian protection zone shall be established around all established vegetation in the southern portion of the existing sediment basin, coincident with the most recent sediment clearing boundary, with the exception of those trees and soil necessary to remove for building the training berm. This boundary would be established on design sheets and plan sets, as well as with protective temporary fencing placed in the field. 2.A qualified restoration biologist or botanist shall create a seed and plant palette appropriate for reestablishing impacted vegetation. Prior to and during construction Qualified Biologist and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control District Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 Impact Mitigation Measure: Implementation Timing Implementation Responsibility Verification Responsibil ity Compliance Verification Date IMPACT BIO-4: Disturbance to Western Bumble Bee MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-4: Western Bumble Bee Mitigation Measures 1.Preconstruction Survey: A qualified biologist shall conduct a preconstruction survey 30 days prior to the onset of work. The pre-construction survey effort shall be conducted for a minimum of one hour. If bumble bees of any species are observed, they shall be photographed for identification following the USFWS guidance in Standardized Bee Photography in the Survey Protocols for the Rusty Patched Bumble Bee (Bombus affinis) (USFWS 2019). If construction begins between March 1 and November 1, the ground shall also be searched during the survey for active bumble bee colonies. 2.No capture or handling of bumble bees is allowed without formal State take authorization. If individual western bumble bees are observed during preconstruction surveys, in consultation with CDFW, they shall be avoided to ensure no “take” occurs. This may require biological monitoring or avoidance buffers until the bees have left the work area. If western bumble bee colonies are identified, these colonies shall be demarcated with a flagged avoidance buffer, as determined by a qualified biologist and shall be avoided during the active season from March 1 through November 1, or until the qualified biologist, in consultation with CDFW, has determined that the colony is no longer active. All sightings of western bumble bee shall be reported to the CNDDB. Prior to and during construction Qualified Biologist and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD IMPACT BIO-5: Disturbance to Special status fish MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-5: Best Management Practices for Fish The Project shall limit in-water construction to the period between June 1 and October 31 to avoid the spawning season. The Project proponent shall obtain and comply with the requirements of the Section 404 permit issued by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Programmatic Biological Opinion for steelhead issued by National Marine Fisheries Service. Prior to and during construction Qualified Biologist and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control District Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 Impact Mitigation Measure: Implementation Timing Implementation Responsibility Verification Responsibil ity Compliance Verification Date IMPACT BIO-6: Disturbance to Western Pond Turtle MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-6: Construction Monitoring for Western Pond Turtles 1.If any turtles or turtle nests are found during preconstruction surveys, a qualified and permitted biologist shall flag the site and determine whether construction activities can avoid affecting the nest. If the nest cannot be avoided, in consultation with CDFW, a no-disturbance buffer zone may be established around the nest until the young have left the nest. If weather conditions prevent implementation of construction beyond two days after completion of turtle surveys, re-survey for this species shall be completed. 2.Once a temporary high visibility ESA fence is installed within the Project Site and all vegetation has been cleared, a designated construction monitor (trained by the qualified biologist), shall inspect the work area for western pond turtles anytime work activity ceases for two days or more. If a western pond turtle is observed by the construction monitor in the immediate work area, no work shall commence in the area of the sighting until the turtle has moved out of harm’s way or the qualified biologist has arrived at the site and relocated the turtle. Prior to and during construction Qualified Biologist and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control District Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 Impact Mitigation Measure: Implementation Timing Implementation Responsibility Verification Responsibil ity Compliance Verification Date IMPACT BIO-7: Disturbance to nesting birds MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-7: Migratory Birds and Raptors Construction Measures 1.To the extent feasible, tree removal shall be conducted outside the nesting season (which occurs between February 15 – August 31) for migratory birds and raptors. 2.A preconstruction nesting bird survey, shall be conducted by a qualified biologist prior to construction activities that take place during the nesting season (February 15-August 31) including any removal of vegetation at the Project Site. If all Project work is conducted during this work window, preconstruction surveys would only be required for wintering burrowing owls and not nesting birds. The survey shall be conducted no more than 7 days prior to the start of construction. Buffers will be placed around any nests that are found during the survey, in consultation with CDFW. No work shall be conducted within the buffers until the qualified biologist has determined that the nesting attempt is complete. Buffers for songbird nests are generally on the order of 50 to 100 feet and for raptors on the order of 250 to 500 feet, with the precise distance determined by the qualified biologist conducting the preconstruction survey based on species, nest site characteristics, and the acclimation of the nesting birds to disturbance. 3.If Western Burrowing Owl burrows are found, a qualified biologist shall flag the site and in consultation with CDFW, determine whether construction activities can avoid affecting the nest. If the nest cannot be avoided, in consultation with CDFW, a no-disturbance buffer zone and monitoring plan would be established. Prior to and during construction Qualified Biologist and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control District Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 Impact Mitigation Measure: Implementation Timing Implementation Responsibility Verification Responsibil ity Compliance Verification Date IMPACT BIO-8: Disturbance to bats MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-8: Roosting Bats and Maternity Colonies Mitigation Measures 1.Roosting bat habitat assessments and preconstruction surveys shall be conducted within 30 days prior to the onset of work to ensure the absence of roosting bats before construction, as detailed below. Prior to the start of construction, a bat habitat assessment shall be conducted to identify suitable bat roosting habitat including bridges, snags, rotten stumps, and trees with broken limbs, exfoliating bark, cavities, etc. This shall be done within 30 days. Potential roosting habitat shall be avoided to the maximum extent practicable. If no suitable roost sites are identified, no further minimization measures are necessary. 2.If suitable roosting habitat is identified and shall be disturbed by presence and noise of equipment and workers for more than two hours, a qualified biologist shall be present to monitor the bat roosting habitat and will stop work if any disturbance to bats is detected and contact CDFW for further guidance. 3.If suitable roosting habitat is identified and shall be removed by the Project, such as from tree removal, a qualified biologist shall survey potential suitable roost sites immediately prior to the removal. If any sign of roosting bats or observation of individual bats is observed, the roost shall be removed in coordination with CDFW or according to permit conditions. Typical removal methods include first removing nonhabitat features such as limbs smaller than 3 inches in diameter. The tree is left overnight to allow any bats using the tree/snag to find another roost during their nocturnal activity period. A qualified biologist would survey the trees/snags a second time the following morning prior to felling and removal. Prior to and during construction Qualified Biologist and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control District Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 Impact Mitigation Measure: Implementation Timing Implementation Responsibility Verification Responsibil ity Compliance Verification Date IMPACT CUL-1: Disturbance to historical resources. MITIGATION MEASURE CUL-1: Environmentally Sensitive Area and Archaeological and Tribal Monitoring •An Environmentally Sensitive Area (ESA) shall be established in areas where excavation activities deeper than 4.5 feet would occur in previously undisturbed soil. The horizontal and vertical ESA shall be delineated on all project plans. A vertical ESA limit of 16 feet will be established, and no Project-related activities (e.g., excavation, trenching) shall take place below the vertical ESA limit. •An archaeological monitoring plan shall be prepared prior to any ground disturbance. The plan shall outline the procedures for discoveries during construction; the chain of command and responsible parties; and special procedures should human remains be encountered. •Archaeological monitoring by a qualified archaeologist shall be conducted during all ground disturbing activities within the boundaries of the Environmentally Sensitive Area that yield visible spoils between 4.5 feet below current ground surface and 16 feet below current ground surface. A daily archaeological monitoring log shall be completed by the archaeological monitor and submitted weekly to the County of Contra Costa for review. Should archaeological resources or human remains be encountered the procedures outlined in the monitoring plan shall be implemented. •Tribal monitoring by a qualified Tribal monitor approved by the Confederated Villages of Lisjan Nation, the Tribe that consulted on this project pursuant to Assembly Bill 52 (the “Tribe”), shall be conducted during all ground disturbing activities within the boundaries of the Environmentally Sensitive Area between 4.5 feet below current ground surface and 16 feet below current ground surface. The Tribal monitor shall complete daily monitoring logs that provide descriptions of the day’s activities, including construction activities, locations, soil, and any cultural materials identified. Prior to and during construction Qualified Archaeologist and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control District Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 Impact Mitigation Measure: Implementation Timing Implementation Responsibility Verification Responsibil ity Compliance Verification Date IMPACT CUL-2: Disturbance to unidentified historical resources MITIGATION MEASURE CUL-2: BMPs and Archaeological and Tribal Monitoring •Contractor shall be notified of the possibility of encountering historic, archaeological, or paleontological materials during ground-disturbing activities. A standard inadvertent discovery clause will be included in every construction contract to inform Contractors of requirements during construction. •Prior to the initiation of construction activities, a qualified archaeologist and Tribal monitor shall provide Worker Environmental Awareness Program (WEAP) training to construction personnel with an overview of applicable laws, Project mitigation measures, and procedures to be followed with regards to historical, archaeological, and Tribal resources that may be encountered over the course of the Project. •Procedures for discovery include: o If potential cultural materials are discovered during construction, the Contractor shall cease all ground disturbing activities within a 100-foot radius of the find. The Contractor shall immediately notify the District Resident Engineer or their designated representative to request a qualified archaeologist and Confederated Villages of Lisjan Nation representative to assess the nature and significance of the find. o If the finding(s) is determined to be potentially significant, the archaeologist in consultation with the Tribal representative shall develop a research design and treatment plan outlining management of the resource, analysis, reporting of the find, and curation or reburial of cultural items. Preservation in place (i.e., avoidance) is typically the preferred manner of treatment of Tribal resources and cultural items. o Any previously undiscovered resources found during construction within the Project Site shall be recorded on appropriate California Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) 523 forms and shall be submitted to Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development, the Northwest Information Center (NWIC), and the California Office of Historic Preservation (OHP), as required. Prior to and during construction Qualified Archaeologist and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control District Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 Impact Mitigation Measure: Implementation Timing Implementation Responsibility Verification Responsibil ity Compliance Verification Date IMPACT CUL-3: Inadvertently disturbance to previously undiscovered human remains MITIGATION MEASURE CUL-3: Impact to Previously Undiscovered Human Remains •In the event of the accidental discovery or recognition of any human remains, there shall be no further excavation or disturbance within 100 feet of the remains until the Contra Costa County Coroner is contacted to determine whether the remains are Native American and if an investigation of the cause of death is required. At the same time, an archaeologist shall be contacted to assess the situation. •If the Coroner determines the remains to be Native American, the Coroner shall contact the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) within 24 hours of this identification. The NAHC shall identify a Most Likely Descendant (MLD) to inspect the site and provide recommendations for the proper treatment of the remains and associated funerary objects. •If the Confederated Villages of Lisjan Nation is designated as the MLD, the Tribe shall make every effort to recommend keeping ancestral remains and funerary objects in situ and protected. If removal of burials is necessary, Tribal representatives shall work with the qualified archaeologist to ensure that excavation and documentation are treated carefully, ethically, and respectfully. No photography or scientific study, destructive or non-destructive, shall be conducted on ancestral human remains. The archaeologist shall prepare a report of all activities, including the recommendations for the treatment of the human remains and any associated funerary objects as provided by the MLD. The report shall be submitted to the District, the Northwest Information Center, and the Tribe. •Tribal representatives shall rebury the Native American human remains and associated funerary objects with appropriate dignity either: 1) In accordance with the recommendations of the MLD if available; or 2) In the project vicinity at a location mitigated between the Confederated Villages of Lisjan Nation representative and the County, where the reburial would be protected in perpetuity and would not be subject to further subsurface disturbance. The discovery is to be documented on DPR523 forms and otherwise kept confidential and secure to prevent any further disturbance. During construction Resident engineer and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control District Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 Impact Mitigation Measure: Implementation Timing Implementation Responsibility Verification Responsibil ity Compliance Verification Date IMPACT HAZ-1: Disturbance of soil or water that is potentially contaminated MITIGATION MEASURE HAZ-1: Prepare and Implement a Hazardous Materials Dewatering and Management Plan The Project proponent or its contractor(s) shall develop and implement a Hazardous Materials Dewatering and Management Plan establishing procedures to manage potentially contaminated fluids encountered during construction of the Project to minimize potential impacts to the public or environment from hazardous materials. The Plan shall identify proper protocols to test and handle potentially hazardous materials if any are found. The Plan shall identify potential licensed disposal facilities and their acceptance criteria; the chemicals to be analyzed to comply with those acceptance criteria, which shall include at a minimum TPH as gasoline, diesel, and motor oil, and BTEX compounds. The Plan shall identify the proper protocols for the following three dewatering fluid disposal options: •Groundwater with petroleum hydrocarbons (could be discharged to the WCWD under their Temporary Discharge Permit, providing the contaminant concentrations are within the Temporary Discharge Permit acceptance criteria and coverage under this permit is acquired prior to the discharge). •Groundwater with petroleum hydrocarbons could be pumped into trucks or portable storage containers and transported to an offsite licensed disposal facility permitted to accept the waste. •Groundwater with petroleum hydrocarbons could be treated onsite under the RWQCB’s General Waste Discharge Requirements for Discharge or Reclamation of Extracted and Treated Groundwater (RWQCB Order No. R2-2017-0048, NPDES Permit No. CAG912002). The pumped groundwater would be pumped into a settling tank to drop the sediments out of solution, and pumped through a treatment system (e.g., granular activated carbon [GAC] to decrease the concentration of TPH as diesel to less than 50 ug/L and TPH as motor oil to less than 100 ug analytically tested to verify that treatment has achieved the effluent limitations. Upon successful treatment, the water could be discharged to the ground. Prior to and during construction Resident engineer and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD IMPACT HAZ-2: Mobilization of contaminants MITIGATION MEASURE HAZ-2: Pollutant and Hazardous Materials Handling •The Bay Area Air Quality Management District shall be notified through their Asbestos Notification System prior to bridge demolition in compliance with the National Emissions Standards for Hazards Air Pollutants (NESHAP). •Worker safety recommendations for employees working at the site follow state and federal hazardous material handling regulations during construction activities. Prior to and during construction Resident engineer and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control District Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 Impact Mitigation Measure: Implementation Timing Implementation Responsibility Verification Responsibil ity Compliance Verification Date IMPACT HAZ-3: Mobilization of contaminants MITIGATION MEASURE HAZ-3: Soil Sampling and Investigation Prior to commencement of sediment excavation activities for either the sediment basin expansion or the community amenities, a soil sampling plan and results report shall be prepared for the District and soil samples shall be collected. The samples shall be analyzed for heavy metals identified in California Code of Regulations (CCR) Title 22. The samples shall also be analyzed for total petroleum hydrocarbons (diesel-range, gasoline, and motor oil), semi‐volatile organic compounds (SVOC), and pesticides. The sampling report indicating the results of the sampling shall be submitted to the District for review and approval. If no contamination is present, no further action is required. If contamination is present, Mitigation Measure HAZ-4 will be implemented. Prior to and during construction Resident engineer and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control District Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 Impact Mitigation Measure: Implementation Timing Implementation Responsibility Verification Responsibil ity Compliance Verification Date IMPACT HAZ-4: Mobilization of contaminants MITIGATION MEASURE HAZ-4: Implement Hazard Mitigation Plan Per Soil Sampling Report If soil testing results exceed applicable environmental screening levels (ESLs) the District shall follow the recommendations provided in the results report to minimize potential for accidental release of contaminants. Recommendations may include development and implementation of one or more of the following plans: •Preparation and implementation of a Health and Safety Plan: If recommended, a Health and Safety Plan would be prepared and implemented by the Contractor to provide appropriate disclosure and information to the site workers and personnel of the contaminants present, hazard identification and awareness, and appropriate personal protective equipment and procedures to be used during construction of the Project. •Preparation and implementation of a Soil Management Plan: If recommended, a Soil Management Plan would be prepared by the District and implemented by the Contractor. Likely conditions are dust control and monitoring procedures, soil handing procedures, soil profiling, transportation and disposal procedure to ensure that the construction workers, residents and the general public are protected and that the Contractor understands and has plans and procedures for handling, managing, stockpiling, profiling, transporting and disposing of the contaminated soils at an appropriate licensed disposal facility. The plan shall include lines of reporting and responsibilities and authorities. The plan shall also detail how soil will be managed to reduce hazardous material exposure impacts from operational use of the Project Site by workers and the general public. The plan shall also be approved by appropriate regulatory agency(s) if necessary. •Preparation and implementation of an Air Monitoring Plan: If recommended, an Air Monitoring Plan would be prepared by the District and implemented by the Contractor during construction that presents specific air monitoring procedures to be used during potentially dust generating portions of the construction activities. The Air Monitoring Plan may include sampling and testing at intervals sufficient to understand and avoid potential exposure to workers, residents, and the general public. Prior to and during construction Resident engineer and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control District Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 Impact Mitigation Measure: Implementation Timing Implementation Responsibility Verification Responsibil ity Compliance Verification Date IMPACT NOISE-1: Temporary increase in ambient noise levels MITIGATION MEASURE NOISE-1a: Limit Construction Noise Emissions/Intrusions The Project shall implement the following BMPs: •Require all construction equipment to conform to Section 14- 8.02 Noise Control of the latest Caltrans Standard Specifications. This requires all internal combustion engine driven equipment to be equipped with intake and exhaust mufflers that are in good condition and appropriate for the equipment, and provide shrouding or shielding for impact tools (i.e., jackhammers). Utilize ‘quiet’ air compressors and other ‘quiet’ equipment where such technology exists. •Provide sound-control devices on equipment no less effective than those provided by the manufacturer. •Locate stationary equipment, material stockpiles, and vehicle staging areas as far as practicable from sensitive receptors. •Require applicable construction-related vehicles and equipment to use designated truck routes when entering/leaving the site. •Designate a County representative to serve as a noise (and vibration) disturbance coordinator who shall be responsible for responding to complaints about noise (and vibration) during construction. The telephone number of the noise disturbance coordinator shall be conspicuously posted at the construction site. Provide notification to the adjacent noise-sensitive receptors (residences and Verde Elementary), including the anticipated construction schedule and contact number for the designated noise disturbance coordinator who can address noise complaints. •Limit project construction activity to the weekday hours of 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. consistent with the Contra Costa County and City of San Pablo General Plans and Codes. If work is necessary outside of these hours, the City and County shall both approve the extended work hours, and the Resident Engineer shall be available to address any noise concerns during construction. Prior to and during construction Resident engineer and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County Flood Control District Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration August 2024 Impact Mitigation Measure: Implementation Timing Implementation Responsibility Verification Responsibil ity Compliance Verification Date IMPACT NOISE-1: Temporary increase in ambient noise levels MITIGATION MEASURE NOISE-1b: Inform Local School Authorities and Residents of Likely High Noise Periods during Project ConstructionWhen project construction work lasting more than a week is necessary in areas of the Project Site close to (i.e., within 200 feet of) the Verde Elementary School and existing homes facing the site south of Wildcat Creek, the Project contractor shall provide a minimum of 3-days’ notice to school and residents and advise them on short-term shifts to less-affected outdoor play/recreation spaces or to other indoor rooms less exposed to the direct noise from the construction activity until the more noise-intensive project construction stages are complete. During construction Resident engineer and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD IMPACT NOISE-2: Temporary increase in disruptive noise levels MITIGATION MEASURE NOISE-2: Minimize Project haul truck access to the site from low-volume roads near sensitive receptors. Haul trucks (i.e., trucks transporting debris, fill, and other materials on and off-site) shall access the site from the north via Rumrill Boulevard and Brookside Drive, which pass through largely commercial/industrial areas. Haul trucks shall not access the site through the southern access route of Giaramita Street and the Wildcat Creek Trail, which pass sensitive receptors, except for emergency access. During construction Resident engineer and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD ATTAC HMENT A DRAFT MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION FOR PUBLIC REVIEW No public comments received Contra Costa County Julio, 2024 AVISO DE REVISIÓN PÚBLICA E INTENCIÓN PARA ADOPTAR UNA DECLARACIÓN PROPUESTA NEGATIVA MITIGADA Conforme al Código de Recursos Públicos del Estado de California y las "Pautas para la Implementación de la Ley de Calidad Ambiental de California de 1970", según enmendas hasta la fecha, esto le informa que el Departamento de Conservación y Desarrollo del Condado de Contra Costa ha preparado un Estudio Inicial para el siguiente proyecto: 1. Nombre del projeto: Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project 2. Archivo de Condado: County File No. 22-17 3. Agencia lider: Departamento de Conservación y Desarrollo del Condado de Contra Costa 4. Persona de contacto de la agencia principal: Syd Sotoodeh, Planificador Senior (925) 655-2877 syd.sotoodeh@dcd.cccounty.us 5. Ubicacion: A lo largo de Wildcat Creek entre Rumrill Boulevard y 6th Street en el área no incorporada de North Richmond y las ciudades de Richmond y San Pablo (APNs: 409- 300-XXX, 409-300-036, 409-311-001, 409-312-XXX, 409-320-XXX, 411-020-XXX, 411-020-034, 411-030- 007) 6. Solicitante: Departamento de Obras Públicas del Condado de Contra Costa; Distrito de Control de Inundaciones y Conservación de Agua Contact: Laura Cremin (925) 313-2015 John Kopchik Director Jason Crapo Deputy Director Maureen Toms Deputy Director Deidra Dingman Deputy Director Ruben Hernandez Deputy Director Gabriel Lemus Assistant Deputy Director Department of Conservation and Development 30 Muir Road Martinez, CA 94553 Phone:1-855-323-2626 Page 2 of 3 7. Descripción: El propósito de este proyecto es mejorar la conectividad del hábitat para las especies acuáticas, incluida la trucha arcoíris de la costa central de California, mejorar el transporte de aguas pluviales a través de Wildcat Creek y brindar servicios comunitarios. Las actividades del proyecto incluyen la modernización de una escalera para peces existente dentro del canal de control de inundaciones de Lower Wildcat Creek para crear un corredor de paso de peces más natural. Aguas abajo de la escalera de peces, l a cuenca de sedimentos existente se ampliará y se limpiará de sedimentos para aumentar la capacidad de almacenamiento de sedimentos. Se construirán bermas de entrenamiento y rampas de acceso de mantenimiento dentro de la cuenca de sedimentos para estabilizar el canal de bajo flujo de Wildcat Creek y mejorar el paso de los peces. Aguas arriba de la escalera para peces, el canal de Wildcat Creek se modificará eliminando escollera para mejorar el transporte de sedimentos. En la parcela adyacente a la escalera para peces, las comodidades comunitarias incluirán mejoras en los senderos, áreas con miradores, elementos interpretativos y posibles áreas recreativas y educativas. Es posible que sean necesarias reubicaciones de servicios públicos y transacciones de derechos de paso. 8. Usos y entorno del suelo circundante: El sitio del proyecto está ubicado en un área urbanizada del condado de Contra Costa dentro de las comunidades de la ciudad de San Pablo, la ciudad de Richmond y la zona no incorporada de North Richmond. El sitio del proyecto se desarrolla con estructuras existentes de control de inundaciones y paso de peces, una cuenca de sedimentos aguas abajo, un sendero y un patio corporativo del Distrito de Conservación de Agua y Control de Inundaciones del Condado de Contra Costa. Wildcat Creek se origina en Wildcat Canyon y continúa fluyendo hasta la Bahía de San Pablo, aproximadamente dos millas al oeste del sitio del proyecto. Topográficamente, el sitio del proyecto es bastante plano. Los usos del suelo adyacentes e incluidos en el sitio del proyecto son industriales ligeros y residenciales, con edificios industriales ligeros, escuelas y residencias a lo largo del corredor del arroyo. Los terrenos adyacentes incluyen una línea de ferrocarril. 9 Determinación: El Estudio Inicial del proyecto propuesto identificó impactos potencialmente significativos en el área ambiental de Calidad del Aire, Recursos Biológicos, Recursos Culturales, Geología / Suelos, Riesgos y Materiales Peligrosos, Ruido, y Recursos Culturales Tribales. El análisis ambiental determinó que las medidas estaban disponibles para mitigar los posibles impactos adversos a niveles insignificantes. Como resultado, se ha preparado una Declaración Negativa Mitigada (MND) de conformidad con la Sección 21080 (c) del Código de Recursos Públicos, 21063.5 y el Artículo 6 de las Directrices de la Ley de Calidad Ambiental de California (CEQA). De conformidad con los requisitos de CEQA (Sección de Normas de CEQA 15071), el MND describe el proyecto propuesto; identifica, analiza y evalúa los posibles impactos ambientales significativos, que pueden resultar del proyecto propuesto; e identifica medi das para mitigar los impactos ambientales adversos. Las mitigaciones identificadas en este documento diseñado para el proyecto propuesto garantizarán que el proyecto no causará un impacto significativo en el medio ambiente. Page 3 of 3 Antes de la adopción de una Declaración Negativa Mitigada, el Condado aceptará comentarios sobre el Estudio Inicial y el Borrador de la Declaración Negativa Mitigada durante un período de comentarios públicos de 30 días. Se puede revisar una copia del Estudio Inicial / Declaración Negativa Mitigada (IS / MND) en el Departamento de Obras Públicas del Condado de Contra Costa, 255 Glacier Drive, Martinez, durante las horas normales de oficina. También puede ver el IS / MND en la página web del Condado: https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/4841/Public-Input. Todos los documentos a los que se hace referencia en el IS / MND están disponibles por solicitud. PERÍODO DE COMENTARIOS PÚBLICOS: – El período para aceptar comentarios sobre la idoneidad del documento ambiental es desde el viernes 5 de julio de 2024 y se extiende hasta las 17:00 horas del lunes 5 de agosto de 2024. Todos los comentarios deben hacerse por escrito y enviarse a la siguiente dirección y / o correo postal: Laura Cremin Contra Costa County Public Works Department 255 Glacier Drive Martinez, CA 94553 Laura.Cremin@pw.cccounty.us Se espera que el documento ambiental se presente ante la Junta de Supervisores del Condado el 10 del agosto de 2024. Para confirmar la fecha de la Junta, comuníquese con Laura Cremin al (925) 313-2015 or Laura.Cremin@pw.cccounty.us. Tenga en cuenta que tenemos servicios de traducción al español disponibles para ayudarlo. Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 1 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts - Draft Prepared for: June 2024 Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Prepared by: FlowWest P.O. Box 29392, Oakland, CA 94604 Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 2 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) TABLE OF CONTENTS 1. Project Description ____________________________________________________ 5 1.1 Project Location and Surrounding Land Use _______________________________________ 6 1.2 Project Background ___________________________________________________________ 8 1.3 Project Goals and Objectives __________________________________________________ 11 1.4 Components _______________________________________________________________ 11 1.5 Construction Details _________________________________________________________ 17 1.6 Operation and Maintenance __________________________________________________ 20 2. Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts ____ 21 CEQA ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST FORM __________________________________________ 22 ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION _______________________________________________ 25 AESTHETICS SUMMARY _________________________________________________________ 26 AGRICULTURAL AND FOREST RESOURCES SUMMARY _________________________________ 29 AIR QUALITY SUMMARY _________________________________________________________ 33 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES SUMMARY _______________________________________________ 39 CULTURAL RESOURCES SUMMARY ________________________________________________ 56 ENERGY SUMMARY _____________________________________________________________ 63 GEOLOGY AND SOILS SUMMARY __________________________________________________ 65 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS SUMMARY __________________________________________ 69 HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS SUMMARY __________________________________ 72 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY SUMMARY ______________________________________ 78 LAND USE AND PLANNING SUMMARY______________________________________________ 82 MINERAL RESOURCES SUMMARY _________________________________________________ 83 NOISE SUMMARY ______________________________________________________________ 84 POPULATION AND HOUSING SUMMARY ____________________________________________ 94 PUBLIC SERVICES SUMMARY _____________________________________________________ 95 RECREATION SUMMARY _________________________________________________________ 98 TRANSPORTATION SUMMARY ____________________________________________________ 99 TRIBAL CULTURAL RESOURCES SUMMARY _________________________________________ 103 UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS SUMMARY _______________________________________ 105 WILDFIRE SUMMARY __________________________________________________________ 107 MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE SUMMARY ________________________________ 109 ATTACHMENTS _______________________________________________________________ 111 Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 3 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) FIGURES FIGURE 1 - 1: PROJECT LOCATION FIGURE 1 - 2: REGIONAL PROJECT LOCATION FIGURE 1 - 3: FISH PASSAGE STRUCTURE FIGURE 1 - 4: EXISTING FISH LADDER, FILLED WITH SEDIMENT, LOOKING UPSTREAM FROM SEDIMENT BASIN (PHOTO FROM 2022) FIGURE 1 - 5: PROJECT ASSESSOR’S PARCEL NUMBERS FIGURE 1 - 6: PROJECT ELEMENTS FIGURE 1 - 7: CROSS-SECTIONAL VIEWS OF BOULDER BUTTRESSES FIGURE 1 - 8: PROJECT FISH PASSAGE AND SEDIMENT BASIN ELEMENTS FIGURE 1 - 9: TRASH DEFLECTION BOLLARDS FIGURE 1 - 10: COMMUNITY AMENITIES ELEMENTS FIGURE 1 - 11: STAGING AND ACCESS FIGURE 2 – 1: CNDDB RESULTS WITHIN 5 MILES OF THE PROJECT SITE FIGURE 2 – 2: WETLANDS AND WATERS WITHIN PROJECT BOUNDARY FIGURE 2 – 3: WETLANDS AND WATERS WITH IMPACTS BY PROJECT ELEMENT TABLES TABLE 1 - 1: PROJECT CUT AND FILL TABLE 1 - 2: PROJECT PHASING AND EQUIPMENT TABLE 2 - 1: CEQA AIR QUALITY SIGNIFICANCE THRESHOLDS TABLE 2 - 2: AVERAGE DAILY CONSTRUCTION EMISSIONS WITH COMPARISON TO BAAQMD THRESHOLDS TABLE 2 - 3: PROJECT AND CUMULATIVE TAC IMPACTS ON EXISTING MAXIMUM EXPOSED SENSITIVE RECEPTORS ON THE PROJECT SITE AND IN ITS VICINITY TABLE 2 - 4: SPECIAL STATUS SPECIES POTENTIALLY OCCURRING IN THE BSA TABLE 2 – 5: WETLANDS AND WATERS WITHIN THE PROJECT BOUNDARIES TABLE 2 - 6: MEASUREMENT DATA AND SURVEY OBSERVATIONS TABLE 2 - 7: MODELED NOISE LEVELS DURING PROJECT CONSTRUCTION PHASES TABLE 2 - 8: MODELED CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT VIBRATION LEVELS Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 4 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS Term Abbreviation Burlington Northern Santa Fe BNSF California Department of Fish and Wildlife CDFW California Department of Water Resources DWR Confederated Villages of Lisjan Nation CVLN Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District the District Cubic feet per second Cfs East Bay Regional Park District EBRPD Engineer Research and Development Center ERDC Northwest Hydraulic Consultants NHC National Marine Fisheries Service NMFS United States Army Corps of Engineers USACE Waterway Experiments Station WES Wildcat-San Pablo Creeks Watershed Council WSPCWC Chapter 1: Project Description Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 5 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) 1. PROJECT DESCRIPTION Chapter 1: Project Description Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 6 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) 1.1 PROJECT LOCATION AND SURROUNDING LAND USE The Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project (Project) is located in North Richmond, an unincorporated area in western Contra Costa County and the Cities of Richmond and San Pablo, along the Wildcat Creek between Rumrill Boulevard and 6th Street (FIGURE 1 - 1). The Project Site includes the existing flood control and fish passage structures, the downstream sediment basin, the adjacent trail, and Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District (District) corporation yard. The Project Site is located in a highly urbanized area of Contra Costa County with light industrial buildings, schools, and housing along the creek corridor. Adjacent lands include a railroad line that has been denuded of vegetation. Adjacent lots are zoned for light industrial use. Topography within the vicinity of the Project Site is generally flat. The San Pablo Bay is approximately two miles west of the Project, and the cities of San Pablo and Richmond flank the eastern side of North Richmond – forming a dense urban area between I-580 to the south and I-80 to the east (FIGURE 1 - 2). Wildcat Creek runs through the entire east-west extent of the Project and continues to flow west for approximately two miles into the San Pablo Bay. Wildcat Creek originates in Wildcat Canyon, and runs through the cities of Richmond, San Pablo, El Cerrito, and unincorporated Contra Costa County. Wildcat Creek within the Project Site runs under two bridges—the Union Pacific railroad (UPRR) and Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) railroad. Wildcat Creek Trail (managed by East Bay Regional Park District, and part of the Bay Trail) is adjacent to Wildcat Creek. Chapter 1: Project Description Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 7 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) FIGURE 1 - 1: PROJECT LOCATION FIGURE 1 - 2: REGIONAL PROJECT LOCATION Chapter 1: Project Description Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 8 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) 1.2 PROJECT BACKGROUND The Wildcat Creek Flood Control Project, completed in 1995, extends approximately 2,200 feet along Wildcat Creek between the mouth at San Pablo Bay to Rumrill Boulevard. It increased the Wildcat Creek channel conveyance to 2,300 cubic feet per second (cfs), the 1 percent annual exceedance probability1 (also known as the 100-year flood). This project included construction of the Wildcat Creek flood control structure, an approximately 410- foot-long three-bay structure which is comprised of 8-foot tall concrete walls along the width of the channel, and two 6.5-foot tall, 300-foot-long interior concrete walls which separate the bays (FIGURE 1 - 3). A fish passage structure was built into the bottom of the middle bay of the flood control structure. It is comprised of a low flow concrete slot that is 4 feet wide through the entire 410- foot length of the concrete structure. Starting at the downstream end, an existing ladder fishway extends for 40 feet, which transitions into Washington baffles (also known as offset baffles or vertical slot baffles) for 365 feet. The fish passage structure flows into the sediment basin, which was designed and built to capture some of the large sediment loads from the upper watershed to prevent the accelerated filling of the marsh (Waterways Restoration Institute 2000). FIGURE 1 - 3: FISH PASSAGE STRUCTURE The fish passage structure currently clogs with urban debris and sediment, which increases sediment deposition in the fish passage structure (FIGURE 1 - 4). When blocked with debris, the fish passage structure is a barrier to upstream adult fish migration under all flows. In the sediment basin just downstream of the fish passage structure, poorly defined channels and excess sediment build up in wet 1 1 percent annual exceedance probabilty: 1 in 100 probability of maximum rate of flow of water at a given point in a channel, watercourse, or conduit resulting from the predetermined storm or flood being equaled or exceeded in any given year. Chapter 1: Project Description Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 9 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) years also create partial fish passage barriers. The District and volunteer groups periodically clear urban debris and sediment from the fish passage structure. Even cleared of the debris, the fish passage structure does not meet California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) current fish passage criteria. In order to bring the fish passage structure up to current fish passage criteria, the District engaged with environmental regulators to select a preferred alternative design for this Project. The preferred alternative incorporates boulders and rocks in the fish passage structure and improves fish passage by creating naturally replicated resting places for migrating fish. The sediment basin presents several fish passage issues related to both natural sediment deposition and sediment removal practices. “Sediment deposited in the basin by winter storms fills the basin and low flow channel before spring migratory flows occur” (NHC 2014); without a well-defined low flow channel, braided channels may form in which none of the constituent flow paths have sufficient depth to meet fish passage criteria. Sediment from the sediment basin was last removed in the early 2010’s. Without regular removal of sediment, the basin’s sediment can pose a barrier to fish passage depending on how the low flow channel is formed in the basin bottom. FIGURE 1 - 4: EXISTING FISH LADDER, FILLED WITH SEDIMENT, LOOKING UPSTREAM FROM SEDIMENT BASIN (PHOTO FROM 2022) Chapter 1: Project Description Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 10 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) 1.2.1 Project Permissions The Project Site is either owned by the District, in easement to District, or located in Contra Costa County right-of-way (FIGURE 1 - 5). Sediment excavated from the fish ladder passageway and sediment basin will be directly off-hauled and/or temporarily stockpiled in the vacant, upland area of the Project Site that is used by the District as a corporation yard for maintenance. Excavated sediment may be off-hauled to the West County Wastewater District (WCWD), therefore the District will need to enter into a License Agreement with WCWD to allow them access onto the District parcel. The soil will be tested as hazardous materials prior to off-haul to determine if the soil can be accepted by WCWD or otherwise, at alternate suitable location(s) which may also require License Agreement or real estate transactions. Work beneath the UPRR in the grant deed area and near the BNSF railroad will require notification to the relevant utilities of work being conducted. Additional permissions and real estate transactions may be necessary for the Project to be implemented. FIGURE 1 - 5: PROJECT ASSESSOR’S PARCEL NUMBERS 1.2.2 Utilities The Project’s geotechnical and subsurface investigations identified several utilities located beneath and above the project elements. The closest utility to the upstream channel modifications is a 16” high pressure gas line of unknown depth that is adjacent to the BNSF bridge, approximately 35 linear feet from the channel modifications. Beneath the fish passage structure there is a Kinder-Morgan-owned natural gas pipeline, which runs approximately 42 feet beneath the existing fish passage structure; a WCWD sanitary sewer pipe, which runs approximately 6 feet beneath the existing fish passage structure; an abandoned Shell Oil pipeline that crosses approximately 6 feet beneath the fish passage structure at the upstream end of the UPRR bridge, and a Verizon/MCI fiber optic cable which crosses Chapter 1: Project Description Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 11 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) approximately 25 feet beneath the fish passage structure. Within the sediment basin, there is an existing Kinder-Morgan pipeline, of unknown depth but at least 3 feet below the design bottom elevation of the sediment basin and a Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) utility pole that runs north-south across the sediment basin. The PG&E utility pole will have to be relocated north of its current location to accommodate the sediment basin expansion. The Project’s excavation depths will not impact any buried utilities. 1.3 PROJECT GOALS AND OBJECTIVES The purpose of the Project is to: • Improve habitat connectivity for aquatic species, including the Central California Coast steelhead trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), by retrofitting the fish passage structure and sediment basin to meet fish passage criteria. • Improve flow and sediment conditions of Wildcat Creek. • Provide recreational and educational benefits to the local community. These goals will be accomplished by: • Retrofitting the existing fish ladder and modifying sediment basin within the Lower Wildcat Creek Flood Control Channel to create a widened and more natural fish passage corridor. • Expanding the sediment basin to the north so that the amount of sediment it captures is the same as its original capacity. No sediment removal will take place in the riparian woodland area that has formed in the original area of the sediment basin. • Modifying the channel by removing a section of riprap and installing trash deflection bollards upstream of the fish passage structure in order to improve flow conditions. • Providing public amenities for the community to use including trail improvements, overlook areas, interpretive features, and potential recreational and educational areas. 1.4 COMPONENTS The Project components include improvements to the fish passage structure, modifications to the sediment basin, modifications to the flood control channel, and community amenities. FIGURE 1 - 6 shows the Project Site and main Project components. Chapter 1: Project Description Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 12 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) FIGURE 1 - 6: PROJECT ELEMENTS 1.4.1 Fish Passage Structure Improvements The District will modify the existing fish passage structure, which consists of a fish ladder (4 feet wide and 405 feet long) located within the middle bay of the flood control structure, in order to resolve the current issues related to flows and clogging. The structure will be modified to meet the CDFW and NMFS fish passage criteria related to fish passage design flows, water velocity, hydraulic drop height, water depth, and turbulence (CDFG 2009). This will be accomplished by demolishing the existing fish ladder and replacing it with a step pool system and roughened ramp channel. A step pool system will be constructed as the western segment (approximately 159 feet), and a roughened ramp channel will be constructed for the eastern segment (approximately 245 feet). The roughened ramp design is shown in cross-section in FIGURE 1 - 7. The roughened ramp will incorporate large boulders to create eddies and resting places for migrating steelhead. In order to construct a more natural streambed, the boulders will be grouted in concrete to soften edges. Boulder weirs will be used to dissipate energy from flows and to create the step pools. The new design will also meet USACE performance criteria related to the 1% annual exceedance probability flood, or 100-year flood. With the above modifications described above, the fish passage structure will be able to accommodate flows up to 170 cfs. Chapter 1: Project Description Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 13 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) FIGURE 1 - 7: CROSS-SECTIONAL VIEWS OF BOULDER BUTTRESSES 1.4.2 Sediment Basin Modifications As described in Section 1.2, Wildcat Creek’s channel through the sediment basin is often not deep enough for fish to travel through it. Sediment basin modifications will create a more stable channel for fish passage and will aid in access to maintain the sediment basin. The existing sediment basin will first have sediment removed within the original area, excluding the riparian zone protection area. One combination Sediment Removal Platform and Access Ramp will be constructed so that equipment, such as excavators, can maintain the channel. Two training berms, one of which is combined with an access ramp, will be constructed across the sediment basin to help stabilize the low flow channel in the sediment basin. The training berms will direct flows to form and maintain a single-threaded, passable channel. To increase basin capacity and thereby reduce the depth of deposition from a given event, the sediment basin will be expanded by approximately 50 feet to the north to a depth of 16 feet below current ground surface. A riparian zone protection area will be created along the south side of the channel to coincide with the outer limit of the riparian vegetation zone to preserve riparian vegetation, and willows will be planted along the edges of the basin and on the eastern training berm. FIGURE 1 - 8 shows these elements. Chapter 1: Project Description Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 14 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) FIGURE 1 - 8: PROJECT FISH PASSAGE AND SEDIMENT BASIN ELEMENTS 1.4.3 Flood Control Channel Modifications The Project would regrade a segment of the channel upstream of the BNSF railroad bridge to improve flow conditions within Wildcat Creek. The Project would lower the bed of the channel by removing grouted riprap along 54 feet of the channel bed. The maximum disturbance of this element would be a temporary depth of 2 feet, with backfilling of rock to form a lip to ensure a consistent slope and ensure channel thalweg stability. This would result in lowering the bed by a maximum of approximately 0.8 feet with the goal of allowing sediment to flush downstream. All activity would take place outside of BNSF Railroad right of way. Trash Deflection Bollards Trash deflection bollards will be added upstream of the fish passage structure to prevent clogging from urban debris. The area immediately upstream of the existing fish passage structure will be excavated to 2 feet below the fish passage structure base. A concrete pad will be built in a triangle shape of 14 feet by 15.6 feet by 15.6 feet, with the 14-foot side facing and centered on the fish passage structure so that the bollards would divert any debris from entering the fish passage structure. Nine bollards that are 6 inches in diameter and rise 4 feet above the fishway base will be formed in a chevron shape. The bollards will be composed of galvanized steel that is filled with concrete and spaced 2.5 feet apart (FIGURE 1 - 9). Chapter 1: Project Description Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 15 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) FIGURE 1 - 9: TRASH DEFLECTION BOLLARDS 1.4.4 Community Amenities The Project will include construction of public amenities for the local community. Key elements include a mini park, trail improvements, and a fish passage overlook. The maximum depth of disturbance of community amenities would be 3 feet for the mini park, 2 feet for the trail improvements, and 3 feet for the fish passage overlook. See FIGURE 1 - 10 below. FIGURE 1 - 10: COMMUNITY AMENITIES ELEMENTS Chapter 1: Project Description Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 16 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Verde Mini Park The Verde Mini Park (mini park) will serve as a recreational amenity for community members to sit, play, and learn in an informal but naturalistic setting. The park includes a composite wood deck, partially covered by a fabric shade. Seating options will include wood platform benches and tree stumps. Interactive components to the mini park will include an artificial turf play area with mounds and wood logs between mounds for informal play. The park will also have bike racks in order to encourage biking as a form of transportation to the park. Trail Improvements The existing trail will be demolished and approximately 1,500 linear feet of replacement trail will be constructed between Verde Elementary School and the fish passage overlook. The new trail will be realigned to accommodate the expanded basin. The trail will be composed of asphalt and decomposed granite and follow the East Bay Regional Park District’s (EBRPD) design guidelines to maintain consistency with other parts of the Bay Trail. Lighting that is dark-sky compliant will be placed along the trail which will also follow EBRPD’s design guidance. Fish Passage Overlook The replacement trail will end at the fish passage overlook (overlook area). The overlook area will feature interactive features, such as interpretive signs, telescopes, art on the pavement, and a wildlife play sculpture. The overlook area’s seating will include tree stump seating and cast-in-place concrete terrace seats/walls as part of a small amphitheater. The overlook area will also feature a rain garden bioretention area with native planting. Guardrails will be installed to keep visitors from the fish passage structure, which has a steep drop off. Other Components New Wayfinding Signage New wayfinding signage will be included at the trail entry at the east side of the Project Site. Plantings, Wildlife Fencing, and Gates New plantings will include a planting mix of native, drought-tolerant plants, which will be placed along the trail. A 6-foot-high wildlife-passage friendly fence will be built along the north side trail to keep trash from blowing into the creek and to separate the community amenities from the District corporation yard. The fencing will be constructed per EBRPD’s standards. Gates include a gate to a pedestrian walkway on the west side of the project connecting to Verde school and an 18-foot-wide gate and fence on the north side of the mini park to allow for maintenance access for the District corporation yard through the mini park. Lighting The lighting for the community amenities will include a mixture of dark sky compliant with downward-facing and low-lumen output, bollard lighting, on-ground luminaire low-level pathway lighting, and pole lighting throughout the mini park. Chapter 1: Project Description Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 17 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) 1.5 CONSTRUCTION DETAILS 1.5.1 Staging and Access A portion of the large open area, located in the northern portion of the Project Site and owned by the District, will be used as a staging area. The staging area and fish passage structure and sediment basin work will be accessed from Da Villa Road. The channel modification work will be accessed from Rumrill Boulevard (FIGURE 1 - 11). FIGURE 1 - 11: STAGING AND ACCESS 1.5.2 Tree Preservation and Removal Tree removal will be limited to what is necessary to construct the Project. Approximately 28 trees, including willows, cottonwoods, and coast live oaks will be removed. Almost all of the trees on the southern side of the existing sediment basin, mapped as riparian wetland, will be preserved (see Figure 1-8, Proposed Riparian Zone Protection), with the exception of five willows that will be removed for the construction of the training berm. 1.5.3 Cut and Fill The excavated sediment material from the sediment basin will be off-hauled and/or stockpiled temporarily at an upland location in the northern portion of the Project Site. The soil will be tested as Chapter 1: Project Description Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 18 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) hazardous materials prior to off-haul and/or stockpile storage. If the soil contains hazardous levels, the soil will be appropriately remediated in compliance with federal, State, and local hazardous materials regulations, and any off-hauled material would be disposed of at the appropriate waste facility. Excess demolition material (including concrete and riprap) would be transported to the appropriate disposal facility. TABLE 1 - 1 does not include concrete cut and fill for the fish passage structure demolition and construction, which is approximately 1,133 CY of cut and 600 CY of fill. TABLE 1 - 1: PROJECT CUT AND FILL Project Component Cut (CY) Fill (CY) Sediment Basin Expansion 20,203.32 0 Basin Sediment Removal 16,142.26 72.34 Upstream Training Berm 73.31 1,266.97 Downstream Training Berm and Access Platform 163.61 367.3 Upstream Access Platform & Ramp 571.97 0 Downstream Access Platform & Ramp 970.37 0 Platform Side Slopes 2,728.36 0 Fish Passage Structure 578.71 0.02 Upstream Channel Modifications 3.27 1.05 Trash Deflection Bollards 0 100 Community Amenities 3,000 2,000 Total 36,364.05 3,807.68 1.5.4 Work Window, Construction Workers, and Equipment Project construction is anticipated to begin in 2025 and take one construction season. The available construction window is limited by the presence of protected species and sensitive habitats. Construction would take place between April and November, and to minimize impacts to special status fish species in-water work would be further limited to June 1st through October 31st.A crew of approximately 10 construction workers, with a maximum of 15 construction workers during peak activities, is anticipated to construct the Project. It is assumed that hauling activities would be consistent over the full construction window of 125 days, which is not represented in TABLE 1 - 2. The community amenities are expected to be constructed separately, but could occur as shown in TABLE 1 - 2. The Project is broken down by phase and, equipment used for construction in TABLE 1 - 2, below. Chapter 1: Project Description Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 19 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) TABLE 1 - 2: PROJECT PHASING AND EQUIPMENT Project Component Description Equipment Time Phase 1 Site Preparation Grubbing/clearing • Mower • Track Pulled Scraper • Conventional Scraper • Bulldozer 1 week Phase 2 Sediment Removal Removal of existing sediment within basin • Excavator • Front Loader • Dump Truck • Crane • LGP Track Dump truck 2 weeks Phase 3 Fish Passage Structure Modifications Demolition and construction, including bollards • Jackhammer • Mini Excavator 6 weeks Sediment Basin Expansion and Modifications Expand sediment basin, build access and training berms • Excavator • Front Loader • Bulldozer/Grader • LGP Track Dump truck • Dump Truck • Compactor • Water Truck 6 weeks Flood Control Channel Modifications Grading/removal of riprap and lip construction • Excavator • Front Loader • Dump Truck • Crane 2 weeks Phase 3 Community Amenities Construction of play area, overlook, outdoor classroom, other associated work • Rubber-tired Dozer • Tractor/Loader/Backhoe • Water Truck • Forklift • Concrete Truck • Crane • Paver and Paving Equipment • Roller 4 weeks Phase 4 Site clean-up and Revegetation • Drill Seeder • Hydroseeder • Grader 2 weeks Total 15 weeks Chapter 1: Project Description Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 20 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) 1.6 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE Once completed, the Project will not require regular operation. Maintenance activities would include annual inspection of the low flow channel through the sediment basin to assess the extent of sedimentation and recommend potential sediment removal. Sediment removal will take place as needed to maintain fish passage through the sediment basin. Sediment removal would follow design dimensions from the as-built conditions to maintain the training berms and access ramps. Annual inspection and potential clearing of debris and sediment from the fish passage structure is anticipated, though the structure will be designed to pass sediment to the basin. The channel modification area will need annual inspection to ensure adequate cross-sections and bed elevations are maintained. If the channel through the sediment basin does not form a low-flow channel, adaptive management will be necessary to assess the need and actions to maintain fish passage through the sediment basin. The community amenities will be maintained by a separate entity from the District. Though the separate entity has not yet been identified, community amenities maintenance will likely also be inspected bi-annually to ensure they are in serviceable conditions for community use. Sources of Information California Department of Fish and Game. 2009. California Salmonid Stream Habitat Restoration Manual, Part XII: Fish Passage Design and Implementation. Available at: https://nrm.dfg.cYa.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=12512+&tabid=189&mid=601 Northwest Hydraulic Consultants. 2014. Wildcat Creek Fish Ladder Retro-fit: Alternative Analysis and Basis of Design Report. United States Army Corps of Engineers. 1988. Wildcat and San Pablo Creeks, Modified Selected Plan, Design Memorandum No. 1, Modified Selected Plan Design Memorandum Supplement No. 2. Prepared by Sacramento District of the USACE. May 1988. Waterways Restoration Institute. 2000. Lower Wildcat Creek Restoration Project Designed and Constructed in 2000 Richmond, California. Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 21 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) 2. INITIAL STUDY AND MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 22 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) CEQA ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST FORM 1. Project Title: Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project 2. Lead Agency Name and Address: Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development 30 Muir Road, Martinez, CA 94553 3. Contact Person and Phone Number: Laura Cremin, Environmental Analyst, (925) 313-2015 , Laura.Cremin@pw.cccounty.us Contra Costa County Public Works Department 4. Project Location: North Richmond, an unincorporated area in western Contra Costa County and the Cities of Richmond and San Pablo, along the Wildcat Creek between Rumrill Boulevard and 6th Street APNs: 409-300-XXX, 409-300-036, 409-311-001, 409-320-XXX, 409- 312-XXX, 411-020-XXX, 411-030-007, 411-020-034 5. Project Sponsor's Name and Address: Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District 255 Glacier Drive, Martinez, CA 94553 6. General Plan Designation: Contra Costa County: Open Space (OS), Public/Semi-Public (PS), Light Industry (LI) City of San Pablo: Parks/Recreation City of Richmond: Parks and Recreation, Business/Light Industrial 7. Zoning: Contra Costa County: Planned Unit (P-1) City of San Pablo: Open Space District (OS) 8. Description of Project: The purpose of the Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project (Project) is to improve habitat connectivity for aquatic species, including Central California Coast steelhead trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), improve channel conveyance, and benefit the local community. Project activities include: • Retrofitting the existing fish ladder and sediment basin within the Lower Wildcat Creek Flood Control Channel to create a more natural fish passage corridor while maintaining sediment basin’s existing capacity. • Widening and modifying the sediment basin to create a more stable channel for fish passage and to aid in access to maintain fish passage through the sediment basin. • Modifying the channel upstream of the fish ladder by removing riprap in the channel to improve sediment transport. • Providing public amenities for the community to use including trail improvements, overlook areas, interpretive features, and potential recreational and educational areas. The Project will meet California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) current fish passage criteria as well as U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) performance criteria related to the 1% annual exceedance probability flood, or 100-year flood. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 23 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) 9. Surrounding Land Uses and Setting: The Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project (Project) is located in North Richmond, an unincorporated area in western Contra Costa County and the Cities of Richmond and San Pablo, along the Wildcat Creek between Rumrill Boulevard and 6th Street. (See FIGURE 1 - 1 above, in Chapter 1.) The Project Site is located in a highly urbanized area of Contra Costa County with light industrial buildings, schools, and housing along the creek corridor. Adjacent lands include a railroad line that has been denuded of vegetation. Adjacent lots are zoned for light industrial use. Topography within the vicinity of the Project Site is generally flat. The San Pablo Bay is approximately two miles west of the Project, and the cities of San Pablo and Richmond flank the eastern side of North Richmond – forming a dense urban area between I-580 to the south and I-80 to the east. Wildcat Creek runs through the entire east-west extent of the Project and continues to flow west for approximately two miles into the San Pablo Bay. Wildcat Creek originates in Wildcat Canyon, and runs through the cities of Richmond, San Pablo, El Cerrito, and unincorporated Contra Costa County. Wildcat Creek Trail (managed by East Bay Regional Park District) is adjacent to Wildcat Creek. 10. Other public agencies whose approval is required (e.g., permits, financing, approval, or participation agreement: U. S. Army Corps of Engineers (Section 404 Clean Water Act permit requirements, Section 408 Rivers and Harbors Act), San Francisco Bay District of the Regional Water Quality Control Board (Section 401 Clean Water Act permit requirements), California Department of Fish and Wildlife (Lake and Streambed Alteration Program), State Water Resources Control Board (Section 402 Clean Water Act- National Pollution Discharge Elimination System General Permit for Storm Water Discharges Associated with Construction and Land Disturbance Activities), West County Wastewater District plant (temporary real property agreement). Coordination and/or approval from the City of Richmond may be necessary due to the Project partially taking place within the City of Richmond as a CEQA-responsible agency. 11. Have California Native American tribes traditionally and culturally affiliated with the Project area requested consultation pursuant to Public Resources Code section 21080.3.1? If so, is there a plan for consultation that includes, for example, the determination of significance of impacts to tribal cultural resources, procedures regarding confidentiality, etc.? Yes, tribes that have previously requested to be notified of Projects within Contra Costa County under AB52 include Wilton Rancheria and the Confederated Villages of Lisjan Nation (CVLN). The District conducted outreach to initiate consultation on November 10, 2023 (refer to Section XVIII. Tribal Cultural Resources for the record of contacts). Wilton Rancheria did not request consultation nor provide information about potential resources. CVLN requested consultation. The District consulted with CVLN regarding the methods of resource investigation identification and avoidance, mitigation, and monitoring measures. Refer to Section XVIII. Tribal Cultural Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 24 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Resources for the record of consultation meetings. Measures were agreed upon and consultation was concluded on February 28, 2024. Additionally, coordination with CVLN may occur through Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (refer to Section V. Cultural Resources). Environmental Factors Potentially Affected The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this Project, involving at least one impact that is a “Potentially Significant Impact” as indicated by the checklist on the following pages. Aesthetics Agricultural and Forestry Resources Air Quality Biological Resources Cultural Resources Energy Geology/Soils Greenhouse Gas Emissions Hazards & Hazardous Materials Hydrology/Water Quality Land Use/Planning Mineral Resources Noise Population/Housing Public Services Recreation Transportation Tribal Cultural Resources Utilities/Services Systems Wildfire Mandatory Findings of Significance Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 25 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION On the basis of this initial evaluation: I find that the Project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment, and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. I find that, although the Project could have a significant effect on the environment, there will not be a significant effect in this case because revisions in the Project have been made by or agreed to by the Project proponent. A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. I find that the Project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required. I find that the Project MAY have a "potentially significant impact" or "potentially significant unless mitigated" impact on the environment, but at least one effect 1) has been adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and 2) has been addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis as described on attached sheets. An ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required, but it must analyze only the effects that remain to be addressed. I find that although the Project could have a significant effect on the environment, because all potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed adequately in an earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION pursuant to applicable standards and (b) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION, including revisions or mitigation measures that are imposed upon the Project, nothing further is required. Syd Sotoodeh [Date] Senior Planner Contra Costa County Department of Conservation & Development July 2, 2024 Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 26 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 1. AESTHETICS – Except as provided in Public Resources Code Section 21099, would the Project: a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista? b) Substantially damage scenic resources, including, but not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and historic building within a state scenic highway? c) In non-urbanized areas, substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of public views of the site and its surroundings? (Public views are those that are experienced from publicly accessible vantage points.) If the Project is in an urbanized area, would the Project conflict with applicable zoning and other regulations governing scenic quality? d) Create a new source of substantial light or glare which would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area? AESTHETICS SUMMARY a) Would the Project have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista? According to the Contra Costa County General Plan 2005 – 2020 (General Plan), the District has two main scenic resources in addition to many localized scenic features: (1) scenic ridges, hillsides, and rock croppings; and (2) the San Francisco Bay/Delta estuary system. The General Plan is still in effect, as Contra Costa County is currently in the process of updating the next version of the General Plan. There are no scenic resources, as defined by General Plan, located on the Project Site. The nearest designated scenic resources to the Project Site are the San Pablo Bay, located approximately 1.2 miles to the northwest, and San Pablo Ridge located approximately five miles to the southeast. The Project Site is not visible from either of these resources. The General Plan, in lieu of identifying scenic vistas, identifies scenic roads as they also afford publicly available views. A scenic road is defined as having a highway, road, drive, or street that, in addition to its transportation function, provides opportunities for the enjoyment of natural and human- made scenic resources. Scenic roads direct views to areas of exceptional beauty, natural resources or landmarks, or historic or cultural interest. In the General Plan, the nearest scenic route is I-580, located approximately 2.4 miles south of the site. Due to the distance and intervening development, the Project Site is not visible from this scenic route. The Project will not have a substantial adverse effect on any scenic vista because no scenic vistas are nearby the Project Site. Therefore, there would be no impact. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 27 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) b) Would the Project substantially damage scenic resources, including, but not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and historic building within a state scenic highway? There are no officially designated State Scenic Highways or County scenic roadways in or adjacent to the Project Site. The Project Site is located approximately 1.5 miles west of I-80, which is not designated as a State Scenic Highway. The nearest eligible State Scenic Highway, which is also designated as a Scenic Highway in the General Plan, is I-580, located approximately 2.4 miles south of the site. The nearest officially Designated State Scenic Highway is SR-24, located approximately 10.6 miles southeast of the Project Site. There are no scenic resources, as defined by the General Plan, located on the Project Site, of which a view would be available from a scenic highway or roadway. Given the absence of scenic highways proximate to the Project Site, the lack of designated scenic resources (i.e., ridgelines, hillsides, rock outcroppings) on the Project Site, and the presence of intervening development between the Project Site and the nearest scenic highways, the Project would not adversely affect views from a State Scenic Highway. Therefore, there would be no impact. c) In non-urbanized areas, would the Project substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of public views of the site and its surroundings? (Public views are those that are experienced from publicly accessible vantage points.) If the Project is in an urbanized area, would the Project conflict with applicable zoning and other regulations governing scenic quality? The Project is located in North Richmond, which is an urban area. The applicable governing document for scenic quality is the General Plan described in Section I.a. The Project Site is zoned as Planned Unit (P-1) and therefore has specific measures developed for the North Richmond Area. The County General Plan policy related to scenic quality within the North Richmond area states that growth and development should “Achieve an upgrading of the visual appearance and unity of the area through architectural and landscaping requirements and utility undergrounding.” Construction of the Project would include demolition and removal of the existing fish passage structure. The demolition during construction, which will include the presence of large construction equipment, could affect the existing visual character and quality of the Project Site; however, these impacts would be temporary. Components of the Project include public amenities such as lighting along with the construction of a new fish passage structure. These components would keep with the character of the area as well as upgrade the existing visual character by removing debris once construction is complete. The Project will not introduce buildings, structures, or other features. The Project would not substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of public views of the site and its surroundings. Therefore, the impact to the existing visual character would be less-than- significant. d) Would the Project create a new source of substantial light or glare which would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area? The Project would not create a new permanent source of light or glare that would adversely affect day or nighttime views. No reflective surfaces would be installed by the Project. Lighting such as low-intensity outdoor lights that are directed and shielded downward to prevent light from Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 28 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) emanating will be included as part of the public amenities components would be a new source of light, however, it would not be substantial and would keep with the character of the area. Construction activities are expected to take place during daylight hours only and thus, no nighttime lighting would be needed. If unforeseen circumstances necessitate night work, it would be temporary and require approval by the Resident Engineer who will be available to address any concerns. Therefore, the impact would be less-than-significant. Sources of Information California Department of Transportation. 2019. List of Eligible and Officially Designated Scenic Highways. Website: https://dot.ca.gov/programs/design/lap-landscape- architecture-and-community-livability/lap-liv-i-scenic-highways. Accessed January 6, 2023. Contra Costa County. 2005. Contra Costa County General Plan 2005-2020. Chapter 9. Open Space Element, Chapter 5. Transportation and Circulation Element. Website: https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/4732/General-Plan. Accessed January 6, 2023. FlowWest. 2024. Wildcat Fish Passage Implementation Project 90% Design. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 29 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 2. AGRICULTURAL AND FOREST RESOURCES – Would the Project: a) Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance (Farmland), as shown on the maps prepared pursuant to the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California Resources Agency, to non-agricultural use? b) Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a Williamson Act contract? c) Conflict with existing zoning for, or cause rezoning of, forest land (as defined in Public Resources Code section 12220(g), timberland (as defined by Public Resources Code section 4526), or timberland zoned Timberland Production (as defined by Government Code section 51104(g)? a) Result in the loss of forest land or conversion of forest land to non-forest use? e) Involve other changes in the existing environment, which due to their location or nature, could result in conversion of farmland, to non-agricultural use? AGRICULTURAL AND FOREST RESOURCES SUMMARY a) Would the Project convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance (Farmland), as shown on the maps prepared pursuant to the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California Resources Agency, to non-agricultural use? The Project would not affect any locally or statewide important farmland. According to the California Department of Conservation Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program (DOC 2018), there is no farmland in the Project area, and the area is not currently used for agricultural purposes. Since the area immediately adjacent to the Project consists of roadways and residential, commercial, and industrial properties, the entire project area is designated as Urban and Built-Up Land. Therefore, there would be no impact. b) Would the Project conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a Williamson Act contract? The Project would not conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use or a Williamson Act contract. The Project area is zoned as Planned Unit and Open Space District. There is no farmland in the Project area, and the land is not under a Williamson Act contract. Therefore, there would be no impact. c) Would the Project conflict with existing zoning for, or cause rezoning of, forest land (as defined in Public Resources Code section 12220(g), timberland (as defined by Public Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 30 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Resources Code section 4526), or timberland zoned Timberland Production (as defined by Government Code section 51104(g) or conflict with existing zoning for, or cause rezoning of, forest land (as defined in Public Resources Code section 12220(g), timberland (as defined by Public Resources Code section 4526), or timberland zoned Timberland Production (as defined by Government Code section 51104(g)? The Project would not conflict with existing zoning or cause rezoning of forest land or timberland. The Project area is zoned as Planned Unit and Open Space District. There is no forestland, or land zoned for timberland production in the Project area. Therefore, there would be no impact. d) Would the Project involve or result in the loss of forest land or conversion of forest land to non-forest use? The Project would not result in the loss of forest land or conversion of forest land to non-forest use. There is no forestland, or land zoned for timberland production in the Project area. Therefore, there would be no impact. e) Would the Project involve other changes in the existing environment, which due to their location or nature, could result in conversion of farmland, to non-agricultural use? The Project would not convert farmland to non-agricultural use because there is no farmland in the Project area, and the area is not used for agriculture. Therefore, there would be no impact. Sources of Information California Department of Conservation. 2018. Division of Land Resource Protection, Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program. Contra Costa County Important Farmland. Contra Costa County. 2023. CCMAP. Website: https://ccmap.cccounty.us/Html5/index.html?viewer=CCMAP. Accessed January 2023. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 31 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 3. AIR QUALITY – Would the Project: a) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air quality plan? b) Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the Project region is non-attainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air quality standard? c) Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations? d) Result in other emissions (such as those leading to odors) adversely affecting a substantial number of people? ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING The Project Site is in the Northern Alameda/Western Contra Costa climatological sub-region of the Bay Area. In most parts of this sub-region, the air pollution potential is low due to the steady westerly marine wind flow. However, North Richmond is an urban environment including many residential, commercial, and industrial stationary air pollutant sources, and with freeways, high-traffic-volume roadways and railroads running through or near it. The dispersion of pollutant emissions from these local sources is sometimes constrained by the confining terrain of the East Bay hills and by regularly occurring seasonal episodes of atmospheric stability with resultant elevated ambient pollutant concentrations. Criteria air pollutants are chemical compounds for which federal or state regulatory agencies have set ambient air quality standards to protect humans from their adverse health impacts. The major criteria air pollutants include ozone, carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and two forms of airborne particulate matter (i.e., PM10, particulates with average diameters less than 10 microns, PM2.5, those with a diameter less than 2.5 microns). The Bay Area is currently designated non-attainment for state and national ozone standards, for the state PM10 standards, and for state and national PM2.5 standards. Consequently, CEQA documents for local projects require evaluation of project ozone and its precursors (i.e., reactive organic compounds [ROG] and nitrogen oxides [NOx]) and PM10/PM2.5 emissions. Many other chemical compounds, generally termed toxic air contaminants (TACs), do not have associated ambient standards, but pose a present or potential hazard to human health through airborne exposure. This is especially the case with small-diameter particulate emissions from diesel-powered heavy trucks and construction equipment (DPM), which is the TAC responsible for 70% of California’s cumulative cancer risk from airborne TAC exposures. In the Bay Area, CEQA air quality issues are typically evaluated using the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) methodologies and significance thresholds as specified in their CEQA Air Quality Guidelines (2022). According to the Guidelines, any project would have a Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 32 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) significant potential for causing a local air quality problem or making a cumulatively considerable contribution to a regional air quality problem if its pollutant emissions or TAC impacts would exceed any of the thresholds presented in TABLE 2 - 1 during construction or operation. TABLE 2 - 1: CEQA AIR QUALITY SIGNIFICANCE THRESHOLDS Pollutant Construction Thresholds Operational Thresholds Average Daily Emissions (pounds/day) Average Daily Emissions (pounds/day) Annual Average Emissions (tons/year) Criteria Air Pollutants ROG 54 54 10 NOX 54 54 10 PM10 82* 82 15 PM2.5 54* 54 10 Fugitive Dust No significant impact if BAAQMD Best Management Practices (BMPs) are implemented Not Applicable Project-Level Health Risk/Hazard/PM2.5 Thresholds Excess Cancer Risk 10 per one million Chronic or Acute Hazard Index 1.0 Incremental annual average PM2.5 0.3 µg/m3 Cumulative Health Risk/Hazard/PM2.5 Thresholds (total contribution from all sources within the Project Site Zone of Influence) Excess Cancer Risk 100 per one million Chronic Hazard Index 10.0 Annual Average PM2.5 0.8 µg/m3 Notes: *PM10 and PM2.5 thresholds for construction apply only to exhaust emissions and do not include the fugitive dust component. µg/m3 = micrograms per cubic meter Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 33 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) AIR QUALITY SUMMARY a) Would the Project conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air quality plan? The main goals of the 2017 Clean Air Plan (prepared by the BAAQMD in cooperation with the Metropolitan Transportation Commission and the Association of Bay Area Governments) are to reduce the Bay Area’s regional air pollutant emissions, thereby continuing progress toward attaining all state and federal air quality standards and eliminating health risk disparities from air pollution exposure in all communities. The focus of the Plan’s air pollutant control measures is on the Bay Area’s largest source of ozone precursors and particulate emissions—the transportation sector. The plan includes incentives for construction equipment upgrades and other strategies to reduce emissions of construction vehicles on a plan level, though none are appliable to the Project. The Plan is based on projections of the effects that its control measures would have on future pollutant emissions and ambient air quality in the context of expected regional trends in population, transportation, housing, employment, etc. The Project would improve the existing fish ladder and sediment basin on the section of Wildcat Creek. After its construction is complete, the Project will not include any new pollutant emission sources, nor require energy from external sources or transportation resources for its operation. Thus, it would have no effect on population, transportation, housing, employment, etc. assumptions that underlie the Plan. Also, Project compliance with CEQA pollutant emission thresholds is a test of consistency with Plan air quality control strategies and noninterference with the attainment of Plan goals. As the analysis for Section III. b below demonstrates, Project construction emissions would not exceed any of the CEQA significance thresholds for the Bay Area’s nonattainment pollutants. Thus, the Project would not conflict with or obstruct implementation of the 2017 Clean Air Plan, and the impact would be less-than-significant. b) Would the Project result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the Project region is in non-attainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air quality standard? The Bay Area is currently a designated nonattainment for the state 1-hour and 8-hour ozone standards, the federal 8-hour ozone standard, the state PM10 24-hour and annual standards, the state PM2.5 annual standard, and the federal PM2.5 24-hour standard. The CEQA Air Quality Guidelines recommend quantification of project construction-related and operational air pollutants using the California Emissions Estimator Model (CalEEMod). Emissions were estimated for project construction sources using CalEEMod’s internal construction equipment emission rates as applied to the equipment and construction phasing data. For the purposes of this analysis, it was assumed that the Project’s main construction phases would occur from June through October 2024 and last for 125 project days and that daily average trips of haul truck activity would be spread evenly over this period. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 34 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Project construction emission estimates and their comparison with the CEQA significance thresholds are shown in TABLE 2 - 2. TABLE 2 - 2: AVERAGE DAILY CONSTRUCTION EMISSIONS WITH COMPARISON TO BAAQMD THRESHOLDS Project Phase ROG NOx PM10 (Exhaust) PM2.5 (Exhaust) 1. Site Preparation 3.6 27.1 1.1 1.0 2. Sediment Removal 1.7 13.6 0.6 0.6 3a. Fish Passage Structure Modifications 0.4 12.9 0.2 0.2 3b. Sediment Basin Expansion and Modifications 3.2 33.5 1.1 1.0 3c. Flood Control Channel Modifications 1.3 20.6 0.5 0.5 3d. Community Amenities 2.8 32.2 1.0 0.9 4. Site Clean-Up/Revegetation 0.5 13.6 0.2 0.2 Highest Daily Average (including phase overlap) 3.6 36.3 1.3 1.2 CEQA Construction Emissions Threshold 54 54 82 54 Significant Impact? No No No No CalEEMod (Version 2022.1) User's Guide Appendix G lists all the numerical values in the model database used to calculate project criteria and GHG pollutant emissions. Diesel-powered construction equipment emission factors from the OFFROAD model and on-road motor vehicle emission rates from EMFAC2021 (the CARB's EPA-approved motor vehicle emission model) for haul trucks and worker commute vehicles were used along with project-specific equipment type/number and truck/worker commute trips to estimate project construction emissions by Excel spreadsheet. Project construction emissions of nonattainment pollutants from off-road equipment, trucks and worker commute vehicles would not exceed any of the CEQA significance thresholds. Thus, the impact from project construction emissions would be less-than-significant. Although no mitigation is required, the BAAQMD recommends implementing basic construction measures for all projects regardless of emissions. Therefore, although there is no significant impact to further reduce emissions, implementation of Mitigation Measure AQ-1 would include BAAQMD-recommended measures for the control of short-term emissions and basic fugitive dust best management practices (BMPs). Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 35 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) The Project would not add any new operational sources of nonattainment pollutant emissions, nor require energy from external sources or transportation resources for its operation. Thus, net new Project operational emissions would be zero and have no impact. c) Would the Project expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations? The CEQA Air Quality Guidelines establish a relevant “zone of influence” for an assessment of Project-level and cumulative health risk from TAC exposure to an area within 1,000 feet of a Project Site. There are three BAAQMD- permitted stationary emissions sources within the Project Site’s zone (as shown online in the BAAQMD’s Stationary Source Screening Map). A database of the impacts of the Bay Area’s mobile TAC emissions on regional health risks/hazards is also available online (BAAQMD, Mobile Source Screening Map); it shows the health risks of TACs from local motor vehicle traffic and railroad activity. For the latter, two railroad lines pass very close to the Project Site – UPRR running adjacent to the Project Site eastern boundary and the BNSF parallel to it and a few hundred feet farther to the east. The closest existing TAC-sensitive uses to the Project Site are the existing Verde Elementary School adjacent to and west of the Project Site, and the existing residential uses just across Wildcat Creek and south of the site. Although Project construction is expected to start in Summer 2025, when students will not be present at the existing school, it is expected to continue for about 6 months. Thus, students will be present at the existing school for part of the Project construction period with potential exposure to TACs emitted by construction equipment from the active on-site areas. The cancer risk from exposure to a particular TAC is the probability of developing cancer from lifetime exposure (i.e., 70 years). Following health risk assessment methodology established by the BAAQMD, the Project’s incremental cancer risk from DPM emitted by construction equipment was estimated by applying established DPM toxicity factors to the DPM concentration estimated by the SCREEN3 model at the school receptor adjacent to the Project Site. Also, in accordance with BAAQMD methodology, the likelihood of non-cancer adverse chronic health risk from exposure to a particular TAC is measured using a chronic hazard index (CHI), which is defined as the ratio of a project’s incremental annual TAC concentration to a published reference exposure level for the particular TAC of interest. If the CHI is greater than 1.0, then the impact is considered to be significant. The Project’s CHI from DPM emitted by construction equipment was estimated relative to the established REL for DPM. Virtually all of the Project construction equipment PM2.5 is DPM, for which Project-level and cumulative annual ambient concentration thresholds have been set by the BAAQMD. TABLE 2 - 3 shows the project construction cancer risk, chronic hazard index, and PM2.5 increments, and the contribution of increments from other local TAC sources within the zone of influence. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 36 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) TABLE 2 - 3: PROJECT AND CUMULATIVE TAC IMPACTS ON EXISTING MAXIMUM EXPOSED SENSITIVE RECEPTORS ON THE PROJECT SITE AND IN ITS VICINITY BAAQMD Source # Facility Address Cancer Risk Chronic Hazard Index PM2.5 Concentration From Local Permitted Stationary Sources* 10603 R&K Industrial Products 1945 N 7th Street 0.15 0.001 0.036 17254 Professional Finishing 770 Market Avenue 0.00 0.007 0.011 23619 Pick-n-Pull Auto 1015 Market Avenue 0.009 0 0 From Local Major Mobile Sources** On-Road Motor Vehicles 12.46 0.036 0.260 Railroads 34.78 0.009 0.142 From Project Construction Sources*** Project Construction TAC Impacts 1.60 0.02 0.08 Project-Level Significance Thresholds 10 1.0 0.3 Significant Project Construction Impact? No No No From Cumulative Sources Cumulative Sources TAC Impact 49.00 0.07 0.53 Cumulative Significance Thresholds 100 10 0.8 Significant Cumulative Impact? No No No *The BAAQMD’s Stationary Source Screening Map was used to estimate the maximum cancer risk, hazard index, and PM2.5 levels on/near the Project Site. ** BAAQMD’s Mobile Source Screening Map was used to estimate risk, hazard and PM2.5 levels; the table entries are the average values that the BAAQMD contour maps show on/near the Project Site. ***project construction cancer risk, chronic hazard and PM2.5 increments were estimated by the SCREEN3 dispersion model using project construction equipment PM2.5 emission estimates from the CalEEMod model. Project operational cancer risk, chronic hazard and PM2.5 levels are not expected to increase since no new operational TAC sources would be introduced by the Project; consequently, post-Project stationary- and mobile- source TAC emissions would be at or near their present levels. The major influences on local cumulative health risk are from DPM and other TACs emitted by local motor vehicle traffic and local train operations on the adjacent railroad lines east of the Project Site. However, as shown in Table 2-3 above, the cumulative totals of health risk levels would not exceed the CEQA cumulative significance thresholds, and the Project’s relatively small increments (i.e., about 3% of the existing background from TACs emitted by diesel-powered equipment during the six months of Project construction) would be temporary. Thus, no sensitive receptors within the Project Site’s zone of influence would experience substantial TAC exposures. However, construction activities would result in localized emissions of dust and diesel exhaust that could result in temporary impacts to sensitive receptors (e.g., nearby residences, schools) from the Project Site. The BAAQMD recommends implementing basic construction measures for all projects regardless of emissions. Therefore, to further reduce emissions, implementation of Mitigation Measure Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 37 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) AQ-1 would include BAAQMD-recommended measures for the control of short-term emissions and basic fugitive dust best management practices (BMPs) to assure that ambient particulate standards are not exceeded at local sensitive receptors during project construction. With implementation of Mitigation Measure AQ-1, temporary impacts during construction would be less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. Once completed, the Project’s recreational components bring in an additional 20 cars per week from the local community. Existing bi-annual inspections and maintenance of the sediment basin would continue as necessary and would likely be less frequent with the Project improvements. Thus, project impacts from ongoing recreational and maintenance activities would be less-than-significant. Impact AQ-1: The Project would generate localized emission of dust and diesel exhaust that could temporarily impact sensitive receptors. MITIGATION MEASURE AQ-1: Implement BAAQMD Basic Construction Best Management Practices: 1) All exposed surfaces (e.g., parking areas, staging areas, soil piles, graded areas, and unpaved access roads) shall be watered two times per day. 2) All haul trucks transporting soil, sand, or other loose material off-site shall be covered. 3) All visible mud or dirt track-out onto adjacent public roads shall be removed using wet power vacuum street sweepers at least once per day. The use of dry power sweeping is prohibited. 4) All vehicle speeds on unpaved roads shall be limited to 15 mph. 5) All roadways, driveways, and sidewalks to be paved shall be completed as soon as possible. 6) Idling times shall be minimized either by shutting equipment off when not in use or reducing the maximum idling time to 5 minutes (as required by the California airborne toxics control measure Title 13, Section 2485 of California Code of Regulations [CCR]). Clear signage shall be provided for construction workers at all access points. 7) All construction equipment shall be maintained and properly tuned in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications. All equipment shall be checked by a certified mechanic and determined to be running in proper condition prior to operation. 8) Post a publicly visible sign with the telephone number and contact information for the designated on-site construction manager available to receive and respond to dust complaints. This person shall report all complaints to Contra Costa County and take immediate corrective action as soon as practicable but not more than 48 hours after the complaint is received. The BAAQMD’s phone number shall also be visible to ensure compliance with applicable regulations. d) Would the Project result in other emissions (such as those leading to odors) adversely affecting a substantial number of people? The Project’s diesel-powered construction equipment is a recognized source of odorous emissions. But during the approximately six months of project construction activity, the equipment would be Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 38 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) distributed over a working area of about 10 acres with an average distance of several hundred feet separating equipment working locations from school/residential sensitive receptors. But with the idling time limitations and maintenance requirements imposed by the included BMPs, any construction- related odor emissions would intermittently affect only a few receptors at a time at Verde Elementary School and adjacent residences south of Wildcat Creek during short periods of work when the equipment is close to them. Thus, project construction odor impacts would be less-than-significant. Sources of Information Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD). California Environmental Quality Act Air Quality Guidelines (2022).Website: https://www.baaqmd.gov/plans-and-climate/california- environmental-quality-act-ceqa/updated-ceqa-guidelines BAAQMD. CEQA Thresholds of Significance (2023). Website: https://www.baaqmd.gov/~/media/files/planning-and-research/ceqa/ceqa-guidelines- 2022/ceqa-guidelines-chapter-3-thresholds_final_v2- pdf.pdf?rev=a976830cce0c4a6bb624b020f72d25b3&sc_lang=en BAAQMD. 2017 Clean Air Plan: Spare the Air, Cool the Climate. Website: https://www.baaqmd.gov/plans-and-climate/air-quality-plans/current-plans BAAQMD. Recommended Methods for Screening and Modeling Local Risks and Hazards (2023). Website: https://www.baaqmd.gov/~/media/files/planning-and-research/ceqa/ceqa-guidelines- 2022/appendix-e-recommended-methods-for-screening-and-modeling-local-risks-and- hazards_final-pdf.pdf?rev=b8917a27345a4a629fc18fc8650951e4&sc_lang=en BAAQMD, Health Risk Screening and Modeling: Stationary Source Screening Map. Website: https://baaqmd.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=845658c19eae4594b9f4b 805fb9d89a3 BAAQMD, Health Risk Screening and Modeling: Mobile Source Screening Map. Website: https://mtc.maps.arcgis.com/apps/instant/sidebar/index.html?appid=c5f9b1a40326409a89076b dc0d95e429 California Air Resources Board (CARB). Overview: Diesel Exhaust & Health. Website: https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/overview-diesel-exhaust-and-health California Air Pollution Control Officers Association (CAPCOA). California Emissions Estimator Model (CalEEMod, Version 2022.1). Website: https://www.caleemod.com Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 39 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 4. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES – Would the Project: a) Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? b) Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, and regulations or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? c) Have a substantial adverse effect on state or federally protected wetlands (including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other means? d) Interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of wildlife nursery sites? e) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance? f) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan? BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES SUMMARY a) Would the Project have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? An 1,800-foot-long segment of Wildcat Creek bisects the Project Site: from the upstream (eastern) extent of the Project Site at Rumrill Boulevard the open creek flows west through the concrete-lined fish passage structure and through the earthen sediment basin to the downstream (western) extent at Giaramita Street. Beyond the Project Site, Wildcat Creek continues to flow west for approximately 4.8 miles and empties into salt marshes adjacent to San Pablo Bay. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 40 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) A biological resource assessment of the Project Site, called the Biological Study Area (BSA), was conducted in February 2022 (FlowWest, 2022). The assessment included background review of literature and databases (see Table 2-2 for CNDDB results), reconnaissance-level field surveys for special-status wildlife and plant species, and a wetland delineation was conducted on October 2022 (Vollmar Natural Lands Consulting, 2022). The Project Site is a highly modified area that is characterized by more than 90 percent non-native vegetation. Land cover types within the 13.3 acre BSA include: Developed: Approximately 2.2% (0.3 acres) of the BSA consists of the concrete fish passage structure, which is comprised of concrete and engineered riprap. Ruderal grassland: Approximately 60.5% (8.1 acres) of the BSA is ruderal grassland, which occurs in the upland area to the north of the sediment basin. A portion of this area will be used as staging area during construction, and is used by the District as a corporation yard. Grasslands consist of mostly non-native species including predominately rip-gut brome (Bromus diandrus). There are a several isolated trees, including a large Fremont cottonwood (Populus fremontii). Riparian wetland: Approximately 8.8% (1.2 acres) of the BSA is riparian woodland, associated with the south side of Wildcat Creek and the sediment basin, running for approximately 1,500 feet downstream of the concrete channel. Riparian trees include arroyo willow (Salix lasiolepis), sandbar willow (Salix exigua), non-native or hybrid black walnut (Juglans hindsii), Oregon ash (Fraxinus latifolia), box elder (Acer negundo) and valley oak (Quercus lobata). Understory species include Himalayan blackberry (Rubus armeniacus), curly dock (Rumex crispus), poison hemlock (Conium maculatum), chicory (Cichorium intybus) and smooth cocklebur (Xanthium strumarium). On the south bank outside of the sediment basin is a mixed riparian woodland composed of willows (Salix laevigata), with occasional Fremont cottonwood (Populus fremontii), and white alder (Alnus rhombifolia). Riparian Woodland: Riparian trees, both in isolation and in groups, were mapped in 13.1% (1.7 acres) of the Project Site. These areas consist of riparian trees that are at higher elevations than the riparian wetlands mapped along the south side of the sediment basin. On the north side of the sediment basin and on the banks of the sediment basin are several isolated trees, including a non-native weeping willow (Salix babylonica), Fremont cottonwood, and coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia). Wetlands and seasonal creek: Approximately 15.5% (2.1 acres) of wetland habitat (seasonal creek, perennial marsh, and seasonal wetland) exists in the Project Site, primarily located within the sediment basin, and along segments of Wildcat Creek. Further details are described in Section IV.c below. The riparian woodlands, wetlands, and seasonal creek are considered environmentally sensitive areas (ESA) and provide suitable habitats for 11 special-status wildlife species and one special-status plant species that have the potential to occur in the BSA listed in TABLE 2 - 4 below. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 41 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) TABLE 2 - 4: SPECIAL STATUS SPECIES POTENTIALLY OCCURRING IN THE BSA Common Name (Species Name) Listing Status Plants Fragrant fritillary (Fritillaria liliacea) California Rare Plant Rank as 1B.2 Animals Western bumble bee (Bombus occidentalis) Not state or federally listed Central California Coastal Steelhead, Southern Distinct Population (DPS) (Oncorhynchus mykiss) Federally threatened Green Sturgeon, Southern DPS (Acipenser medirostris) California Species of Special Concern/Federally Threatened Western pond turtle (Clemmys marmorata) California Species of Special Concern Hoary bat (Lasiurus cinereus) California Special Animal* Black-crowned Night-heron (Nycticorax nycticorax) CDFW Watch List Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia) Federal Birds of Conservation Concern/California Species of Special Concern Cooper’s Hawk (Accipiter cooperii) CDFW Watch List Double-crested Cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus) CDFW Watch List Northern Harrier (Circus cyaneus) California Species of Special Concern Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) CDFW Watch List Short-eared Owl (Asio flammeus) California Species of Special Concern Snowy egret (Egretta thula) California Special Animal* White-tailed Kite (Elanus leucurus) California Fully Protected Species *“Special Animals” is a general term that refers to all of the taxa the CNDDB is interested in tracking, regardless of their legal or protection status. This list is also referred to as the list of “species at risk” or “special status species”. The Department of Fish and Wildlife considers the taxa on this list to be those of greatest conservation need. Heavy equipment operation and associated noise, creek and wetland disturbance, dust from ground disturbance including grading and excavation, and an increase in human presence have the potential to disrupt special status wildlife species and their habitats, and to introduce new invasive species to the site. Wildcat Creek and the associated sediment basin are expected to be dry during sediment removal and excavation for basin expansion, however sediment mobilization could potentially affect water quality and other fish habitat downstream of the Project Site. As further discussed in Section b (below), there will be temporary and permanent impacts to riparian habitat that occur from riparian tree removal and construction of other project elements, including the training berms and platforms and expansion of the basin. Mitigation Measures BIO-1 through BIO-3 would lessen impacts to all species and their habitat, however, specific species measures are discussed further below. Impact BIO-1: The Project area contains habitat for special status species and other protected species that could be affected by Project implementation. The following general mitigation measures (MMs) will avoid and minimize general impact to all special status species. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 42 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-1: General Construction-related Mitigation Measures The following best management practices/avoidance and minimization measures would be used for protection of the biological resources within the BSA. 1. Worker Environmental Awareness Training (WEAT): Prior to the start of construction in each year, construction personnel shall be trained by a qualified biologist on all required avoidance and minimization measures as well as permit requirements. 2. Preconstruction surveys for all special status and common wildlife species shall be conducted within the Project area by a qualified biologist immediately prior to equipment or material staging, pruning/grubbing, or surface-disturbing activities. The qualified biologist shall search aquatic vegetation, the water’s surface, leaf litter, logs, snags, and other habitat features for special status and common wildlife species. If species are found, individuals shall be relocated outside of the Project area if the qualified biologist is permitted to do so by all regulatory agencies and determines that relocation is warranted. Although not expected, this includes dewatering activities. If water diversion systems are implemented, a qualified biologist shall be on site to relocate all fish, turtles, invertebrates, and other wildlife observed outside of the work area. 3. Prior to start of construction, temporary high visibility ESA fence shall be placed at the upstream and downstream ends of the Project Site and placed along the southern riparian area to exclude the ESA. The limits shall be staked by a qualified biologist. 4. The District shall require the contractor to prepare a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) for construction activities according to the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Construction General Permit as required under Section 402 of the Clean Water Act. The SWPPP shall identify water pollution control measures and construction- waste containment measures to be implemented during and after project construction, including but not limited to: o Trash generated by the Project shall be promptly and properly removed from the site daily. o Appropriate erosion control measures (e.g., fiber rolls, filter fences, hydroseeding of exposed soils, and mulching) shall be used on site to reduce siltation and runoff of contaminants into jurisdictional waters. Filter fences and mesh shall be of material that shall not entrap reptiles and amphibians. Fiber rolls shall not contain plastics of any kind. Erosion control blankets shall be used as a last resort because of their tendency to biodegrade slowly and to trap reptiles and amphibians. o No erodible materials shall be deposited into watercourses. Brush, loose soils, or other debris material shall not be stockpiled within stream channels or adjacent to the basin. o Active construction areas shall be watered regularly. o Dredged sediments shall be managed during construction. o A hazardous materials management plan will describe the actions that shall be taken in the event of a spill that could potentially impact jurisdictional waters. Adequate spill containment materials, such as hazardous material absorbent pads and similar materials, shall be available on site at all times. The plan also shall incorporate preventive measures to be implemented (such as vehicle and equipment staging, cleaning, maintenance, and refueling) and contaminant (including fuel) management and storage. 5. All excavated steep-walled holes and trenches more than six inches deep shall be covered with plywood (or similar material) or provided with one or more escape ramps constructed of earth fill or wooden planks at the end of each work-day or 30 minutes prior to sunset, whichever occurs first. All steep-walled holes and trenches shall be inspected by the approved biologist each morning to ensure that no turtles or other wildlife has become entrapped. All construction pipes, culverts, similar structures, construction equipment, and construction debris left Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 43 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) overnight shall be inspected for presence of wildlife by a WEAT-trained construction monitor prior to being moved. 6. All slash materials (limbs, branches, and other woody debris) resulting from tree removal activities shall be removed from the Project Site and properly disposed of at an off-site location. 7. Temporarily affected areas shall be restored to pre-Project conditions. Before October 31 and/or immediately after construction is complete, all exposed soils shall be stabilized to reduce the effects of erosion. Impact BIO-2: There is a potential for the project to accidentally introduce invasive species into the Project Site during construction. MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-2: Invasive Species Prevention 1. Only certified noxious weed-free erosion control materials shall be used. All straw and seed material shall be certified as weed-free prior to being used at the Project Site. 2. Contractor shall wash all construction equipment prior to bringing it onto the job site. Inspection shall ensure that equipment arrives on site free of mud and seed-bearing material. 3. Any reseeding of disturbed soil areas and newly constructed slopes shall use an appropriate native seed mix as specified in the plans and specifications. Impact BIO-3: The Project area contains riparian habitat that would be temporarily and permanently impacted by construction. MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-3: Riparian Vegetation Protection 1. A riparian protection zone shall be established around all established vegetation in the southern portion of the existing sediment basin, coincident with the most recent sediment clearing boundary, with the exception of those trees and soil necessary to remove for building the training berm. This boundary would be established on design sheets and plan sets, as well as with protective temporary fencing placed in the field. 2. A qualified restoration biologist or botanist shall create a seed and plant palette appropriate for reestablishing impacted vegetation. Special Status Plant Species Fragrant fritillary (Fritillaria liliacea) The BRA identified one special-status plant species that has potential to occur in and around the BSA, the fragrant fritillary, which are listed under the California Rare Plant Rank as 1B.2 (rare, threatened, or endangered in California or elsewhere). Fragrant fritillary are documented within five miles of the Project Site (CNDDB 2022). Fragrant fritillary typically occur in open hilly grasslands. Habitat in the BSA is very poor and dominated by non-native annual grasses, however there is marginally suitable habitat upslope of the sediment basin. Fragrant fritillary was not observed during the BSA survey. The blooming period for this species is between February and April, and the BSA survey was conducted in late-February (CNPS 2023). There would be no decrease in the suitable habitat area along the sediment basin in which fragrant fritillary could be established. Although access ramps and training berms would be constructed, the operation of the sediment would not change. The expanded sediment basin’s slopes would be re-seeded with a native grass mix after construction but would remain in a similar condition as marginally suitable habitat for fragrant fritillary. Therefore, construction and Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 44 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) operation of the Project would have no direct or indirect impact through destruction of habitat for fragrant fritillary. FIGURE 2 – 1: CNDDB RESULTS WITHIN 5 MILES OF THE PROJECT SITE Special Status Wildlife Species Project construction could potentially impact the following special status wildlife species. Western bumble bee (Bombus occidentalis) Western bumble bee is a candidate species for federal listing. There are four CNDDB reports occurrences within five miles of the BSA, however, all of them are records of collections that occurred more than 50 years ago. There have been no recent verified observations of western bumble bee in Contra Costa County. Due to bees moving from patches, there is a low possibility that the Western bumble bee could be present on the Project Site. Habitat in the BSA is very poor, not providing feeding or reproduction sites necessary. The disturbance of the sediment basin itself and its northern banks and slopes could disturb bee and bee habitat. Additionally, although no focused surveys have been conducted to date, the site is within the range for the species, and the annual grassland areas with small mammal burrows provide potentially suitable underground nesting habitat. Impacts to western bumblebee habitat will be minimized and/or avoided by restoration of temporarily impacted areas with native plants, and through implementation Mitigation Measure BIO-4: Western Bumble Bee Mitigation Measures, the impact would be less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. IMPACT BIO-4: The Project could impact western bumble bee, if present in the BSA during construction. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 45 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-4: Western Bumble Bee Mitigation Measures 1. Preconstruction Survey: A qualified biologist shall conduct a preconstruction survey 30 days prior to the onset of work. The pre-construction survey effort shall be conducted for a minimum of one hour. If bumble bees of any species are observed, they shall be photographed for identification following the USFWS guidance in Standardized Bee Photography in the Survey Protocols for the Rusty Patched Bumble Bee (Bombus affinis) (USFWS 2019). If construction begins between March 1 and November 1, the ground shall also be searched during the survey for active bumble bee colonies. 2. No capture or handling of bumble bees is allowed without formal State take authorization. If individual western bumble bees are observed during preconstruction surveys, in consultation with CDFW, they shall be avoided to ensure no “take” occurs. This may require biological monitoring or avoidance buffers until the bees have left the work area. If western bumble bee colonies are identified, these colonies shall be demarcated with a flagged avoidance buffer, as determined by a qualified biologist and shall be avoided during the active season from March 1 through November 1, or until the qualified biologist, in consultation with CDFW, has determined that the colony is no longer active. All sightings of western bumble bee shall be reported to the CNDDB. Fish Two special status fish species were determined to occur or have critical habitat in the Project area: Central California Coast Distinct Population Segment (DPS) steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss irideus), which is federally listed as a threatened species and is the anadromous form of rainbow trout, and Green Sturgeon Southern DPS (Acipenser medirostris), which is listed as a Threatened species under the Federal Endangered Species Act and is categorized as a state Species of Special Concern. For the CCC DPS steelhead, designated critical habitat includes the drainages of San Francisco and San Pablo Bays (Federal Register, 2000). Though CCC Steelhead have not been documented in Wildcat Creek, resident populations of rainbow trout occur in the upper watershed (which could develop anadromy), and rare occurrences of other salmonids have been documented in Wildcat Creek (only one salmonid has been documented in this area of Wildcat Creek in 10 years, which was likely a stray hatchery Chinook salmon) (Pers. Comm. NMFS 2022). Green Sturgeon have not been documented in Wildcat Creek but have critical habitat designated downstream in the San Francisco Bay (NMFS, 2009). The 1996 Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act established essential fish habitat provisions to identify and protect important habitats of federally managed marine and anadromous fisheries. The act requires consultation with NMFS regarding the potential impacts on essential fish habitat of federal agency actions. If consultation with NMFS identifies this part of Wildcat Creek has essential fish habitat, the Project will comply with the conditions of the restoration Programmatic Biological Opinion so that the Project will not result in adverse effects to any essential fish habitat. The Project area may provide a migration corridor for the salmonids and green sturgeon. However, Wildcat Creek is degraded in the Project area. The fish passage structure and basin are filled with sediment, and individual fish may occasionally use the Project area as a migration corridor during high-flows only during rare occasions when passage is possible through the current concrete structure between September and March. The Project is designed to provide passage during a wider range of flows. The Project would involve work within Wildcat Creek and the associated basin. This work would occur from June 1st through October 31st, when water is usually not present in the channel and outside of the spawning season and would therefore not present a barrier to fish passage. The lack of water during the construction window means that no fish would be present during construction, either adults Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 46 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) or juveniles. Even if water were present due to an exceptionally wet year or a dry season storm, the temperature ranges in this part of the watershed would not be suitable habitat for spawning or rearing. The Project would improve fish passage through this part of the creek and would not change the character or composition of the substrate through this section of the creek and sediment basin. The creek currently provides poor substrate and cover for salmonids. By preserving the southern riparian area, the Project would not negatively impact the cover conditions through the sediment basin. Some trees located on the northern part of the sediment basin would be removed, though this is an area which does not provide adequate cover for rearing. These impacts would be less-than-significant. To lessen these potential impacts, mitigation measures for fish would be followed during construction as part of Mitigation Measure BIO-5. IMPACT BIO-5: Special status fish and other species could be affected by Project activities in the channel and sediment basin. The following general mitigation measures will lessen the impact to all special status species. MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-5: Best Management Practices for Fish The Project shall limit in-water construction to the period between June 1 and October 31 to avoid the spawning season. The Project proponent shall obtain and comply with the requirements of the Section 404 permit issued by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Programmatic Biological Opinion for steelhead issued by National Marine Fisheries Service. Western pond turtle (Clemmys marmorata) The Western pond turtle is a California Species of Special Concern. There is one CNDDB report occurrences within five miles of the BSA. It is an aquatic turtle that utilizes ponds, marshes, rivers, streams and irrigation ditches with aquatic vegetation. They prefer deep (great than two feet), quiet pools along streams. Important habitat features include basking sites and suitable upland habitat for egg-laying (sandy banks or grassy open fields adjacent to aquatic habitat). The riparian corridor has features that could serve as habitat for the Western Pond Turtle. Therefore, although they were not observed during the field survey, they could potentially occur on the Project Site. If western pond turtle adults, young, or their nests are present during construction, they could be harmed by construction activities. In particular, work in the sediment basin and on its banks could result in direct impacts to individuals and nests. To address these impacts, pre-construction surveys for western pond turtles and installation of temporary high visibility ESA fence would be conducted as part of Mitigation Measure BIO-1: General Construction-related Mitigation. Monitoring and CDFW consultation, would be done as part of Mitigation Measure BIO-6: Construction Monitoring for Western Pond Turtles. If any western pond turtle individuals are observed within a construction zone during the preconstruction surveys or construction monitoring, the individual will be relocated out of harm’s way according to permit conditions. With implementation of Mitigation Measures BIO-1 and BIO-6, the impact would be less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. IMPACT BIO-6: The Project could impact western pond turtle, if present in the BSA during construction. MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-6: Construction Monitoring for Western Pond Turtles 1. If any turtles or turtle nests are found during preconstruction surveys, a qualified and permitted biologist shall flag the site and determine whether construction activities can avoid Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 47 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) affecting the nest. If the nest cannot be avoided, in consultation with CDFW, a no-disturbance buffer zone may be established around the nest until the young have left the nest. If weather conditions prevent implementation of construction beyond two days after completion of turtle surveys, re-survey for this species shall be completed. 2. Once a temporary high visibility ESA fence is installed within the Project Site and all vegetation has been cleared, a designated construction monitor (trained by the qualified biologist), shall inspect the work area for western pond turtles anytime work activity ceases for two days or more. If a western pond turtle is observed by the construction monitor in the immediate work area, no work shall commence in the area of the sighting until the turtle has moved out of harm’s way or the qualified biologist has arrived at the site and relocated the turtle. Birds Several sensitive or locally rare bird species were determined to have the potential to nest, roost, or forage within the Project area. Black-crowned Night-heron (Nycticorax nycticorax) Black-crowned night-herons, which are on the CDFW Watch List, do not have any CNDDB recorded occurrences. Suitable habitat within the Project Site includes potential nesting habitat in the southern riparian area. Rookery sites are located adjacent to foraging areas including lake margins, mud- bordered bays and marshy spots. Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia) Burrowing owls, which are a species of special concern, have reported one CNDDB reports occurrences within five miles of the BSA. These occurrences in the vicinity are overwintering, rather than breeding, as this species breeds between February and August. Suitable habitat is present in the open ruderal vegetation of the Project Site, however no suitable burrowing owl burrows were observed during the site visit. Cooper’s Hawk (Accipter cooperii) Cooper’s Hawks nest primarily in deciduous riparian forests and forage in open woodlands. Double-crested Cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus) Double-crested Cormorants are colonial nesters on coastal cliffs, offshore islands, and along lake margins in the interior of California. This species nest along the coast on sequestered islets, usually on the ground with sloping surfaces, or in tall trees along lake margins. This species may occur on the Project Site, particularly in the tall trees adjacent to the sediment basin. Northern Harrier (Circus cyaneus) Habitat for the Northern Harrier, which are a special status species, have been reported once in CNDDB reports occurrences within five miles of the BSA. Although Northern Harrier were not observed during the site visit, they nest and forage in grasslands and shrubby vegetation, usually at the edge of marshes. Therefore, there is suitable habitat present along the sediment basin and this species may occur on the Project Site year-round Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) Osprey breed in northern California from the Cascade Ranges south to Lake Tahoe, and along the coast south to the Bay Area. Associated strictly with large, fish-bearing waters, they are primarily in Ponderosa pine through mixed conifer habitats. Osprey are common around major Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 48 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) estuaries and salt marshes and large lakes/rivers. Though unlikely, the proximity to the San Francisco Bay of the Project Site means that this species may occur on the Project Site. Snowy Egret (Egretta thula) Snowy egrets are categorized as a California Special Animal. They are colonial nesters with nest sites situated in protected beds of dense tules. Rookery sites are situated close to foraging areas. Found in marshes, tidal-flats, streams, wet meadows, and borders of lakes. Though no tules are present and thus no suitable nesting habitat, foraging habitat exists on the Project Site for the Snowy egret. Short-eared Owl (Asio flammeus) Short-eared Owls are found in both freshwater and saltwater marshes, lowland meadows, and irrigated alfalfa fields. Short-eared owls nest and seclude themselves during the daytime in tule patches and full grass. Short-eared owls nest on dry ground in depressions concealed in vegetation. This species may occur on the Project Site foraging in the freshwater marsh areas and during nesting season in the ruderal grassland. White Tailed Kite (Elanus caeruleus) White Tailed kites can be found in marshes in the San Francisco Bay Area, and can nest near the top of dense willow stands (CDFW 2005). For these reasons, suitable foraging and nesting habitat exists on the Project Site in the marsh habitat and within the riparian woodlands in the south end of the sediment basin, respectively. Nesting Birds Bird and raptor species, regardless of special status listing, are protected by the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) and California Fish and Game Code Sections 3503 and 3503.5. Most existing trees and vegetation within the BSA have at least some potential to support numerous bird species and their nests. Project construction could have direct impact on nesting birds, and increased noise and human presence from project construction could result in indirect impacts on nesting birds in the BSA through modifications to behavior resulting in lower breeding success. Additionally, the removal of specific trees could impact birds if active nests are present in those trees. To address these impacts, pre-construction surveys for occurrence of special status bird species and nesting birds would be conducted as part of Mitigation Measure BIO-1: General Construction- related Mitigation Measures. General construction and prevention measures addressing impacts to nesting birds would be covered under Mitigation Measure BIO-7: Migratory Birds and Raptors Construction Measures. Therefore, the impact would be less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. IMPACT BIO-7: If migratory and other bird species (including Burrowing Owl, Cooper’s Hawk, Double-crested Cormorant, Northern Harrier, Osprey, Short-eared Owl and White-tailed Kite) nest within the Project area, the Project could result in short-term impacts such as failure to breed, nest abandonment, reduced fecundity and decreased survivorship from noise and movement of personnel and equipment that exceeds normal background conditions within the Project area. Disturbance may alter the birds’ behavior in ways that result in injury, mortality and reduced foraging success, such as the temporary loss of habitat due to avoidance of areas with intolerable levels of disturbance, and altered activity patterns. BIO-7: Migratory Birds and Raptors Construction Measures 1. To the extent feasible, tree removal shall be conducted outside the nesting season (which occurs between February 15 – August 31) for migratory birds and raptors. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 49 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) 2. A preconstruction nesting bird survey, shall be conducted by a qualified biologist prior to construction activities that take place during the nesting season (February 15-August 31) including any removal of vegetation at the Project Site. If all Project work is conducted during this work window, preconstruction surveys would only be required for wintering burrowing owls and not nesting birds. The survey shall be conducted no more than 7 days prior to the start of construction. Buffers will be placed around any nests that are found during the survey, in consultation with CDFW. No work shall be conducted within the buffers until the qualified biologist has determined that the nesting attempt is complete. Buffers for songbird nests are generally on the order of 50 to 100 feet and for raptors on the order of 250 to 500 feet, with the precise distance determined by the qualified biologist conducting the preconstruction survey based on species, nest site characteristics, and the acclimation of the nesting birds to disturbance. 3. If Western Burrowing Owl burrows are found, a qualified biologist shall flag the site and in consultation with CDFW, determine whether construction activities can avoid affecting the nest. If the nest cannot be avoided, in consultation with CDFW, a no-disturbance buffer zone and monitoring plan would be established. Roosting Bats Within the Project Site, mature riparian trees and annual grassland may provide suitable roosting and foraging habitat for bats, including the hoary bat and other native bat species. Hoary Bat (Lasuirus cinereus), have been located once in CNDDB, however bats tend to be under-reporting in CNDDB sightings due to nocturnal activity. Hoary Bats roost in foliage under overhanging leaves, particularly in riparian woodland areas. Females raise pups solitarily or in very small groups, and may move their young among multiple roost locations. Crevice and cavity-roosting bats such as pallid bat, big brown bat (Eptesicus fuscus), and several species of myotis bats (Myotis spp.) may use any available cracks or holes in trees as roosting habitat, in addition to the bridge structures in and adjacent to the Project Site. In addition to roosting habitat, bats may forage for insects almost anywhere in the Project area. No sign of roosting bats was observed during the site visit; however, a thorough bat roost survey was not conducted. Bats could be roosting in the bridges or trees in the Project area. Project construction could have direct impact on roosting bats, and increased noise and human presence from project construction could result in indirect impacts on roosting bats in the BSA through modifications to behavior resulting in lower breeding success, including the loss or abandonment of an active roost. The removal of specific trees could impact bats if active roosts are present in those trees. However, with implementation of Mitigation Measure BIO-8: Roosting Bats and Maternity Colonies Mitigation Measures, the impact would be less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. IMPACT BIO-8: The Project could impact roosting bats, if present in the BSA during construction. MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-8: Roosting Bats and Maternity Colonies Mitigation Measures 1. Roosting bat habitat assessments and preconstruction surveys shall be conducted to ensure the absence of roosting bats before construction, as detailed below. Prior to the start of construction, a bat habitat assessment shall be conducted to identify suitable bat roosting habitat including bridges, snags, rotten stumps, and trees with broken limbs, exfoliating bark, cavities, etc. This shall be done within 30 days prior to the onset of work. Potential roosting Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 50 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) habitat shall be avoided to the maximum extent practicable. If no suitable roost sites are identified, no further minimization measures are necessary. 2. If suitable roosting habitat is identified and shall be disturbed by presence and noise of equipment and workers for more than two hours, a qualified biologist shall be present to monitor the bat roosting habitat and will stop work if any disturbance to bats is detected and contact CDFW for further guidance. 3. If suitable roosting habitat is identified and shall be removed by the Project, such as from tree removal, a qualified biologist shall survey potential suitable roost sites immediately prior to the removal. If any sign of roosting bats or observation of individual bats is observed, the roost shall be removed in coordination with CDFW or according to permit conditions. Typical removal methods include first removing nonhabitat features such as limbs smaller than 3 inches in diameter. The tree is left overnight to allow any bats using the tree/snag to find another roost during their nocturnal activity period. A qualified biologist would survey the trees/snags a second time the following morning prior to felling and removal. b) Would the Project have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, and regulations or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? Habitats within the Project Site that are treated as sensitive natural communities include riparian woodlands, seasonal creek, perennial marsh, seasonal wetland, and riparian wetland, as they are jurisdictional wetland features regulated by California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) under Section 1600 of the California Fish and Game Code and Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) under Section 401 of the Clean Water Act, and with the exception of the riparian woodlands, by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineer under Section 404. The Project Site includes 1.74 acres mapped as riparian woodland, and 3.23 acres of seasonal creek, perennial marsh, seasonal wetland, and riparian wetland. Temporary impacts to riparian habitat and sensitive natural communities include grubbing and vegetation removal, construction of access roads and staging areas, the removal of sediment within the existing basin, excavation of the sediment basin to expand the basin northward, reconstruction of the fish passage structure, and the removal of riprap in the channel upstream, resulting in 1.6 acres of temporary impacts to riparian habitat and sensitive natural communities. Removal of sediment from the basin and channel is expected to improve wetland habitat. The expansion of the basin would temporarily impact sensitive natural communities which will likely be converted to wetland conditions and vegetation following construction. It is expected that all of these areas would naturally re-establish with vegetation after construction, and the area will be hydro-seeded and replanted with native vegetation. Permanent impacts to riparian habitat and sensitive natural communities would result from the construction of training berms and platforms within the sediment basin and within its expansion area, from the construction of the trash deflection bollards, and construction of the community amenities, because these activities would place fill within the sediment basin, in the creek, and in the riparian habitat. The construction of the community amenities, particularly the Verde Mini Park on the western side of the Project Site would result in permanent impacts to riparian habitat. In total, the Project will result in 0.41 acres of permanent impacts. As a whole, however, this project is intended to be self- Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 51 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) mitigating; the Project would be beneficial to riparian habitats, and riparian plants including willows would be planted along the training berms, where the willows would have the most beneficial impact for the riparian habitat along Wildcat Creek. The impacts to riparian habitat would be permanent but not substantial due to the proposed improvements to the sediment basin, including the planting of riparian plantings and improvement of fish migration along the creek. A total of 28 trees were identified for removal within the Project boundary, of which 22 had a diameter at breast height over 4 inches. Those trees included 15 Red Willows (Salix Laevigata), 1 non- native Willow (Salix alba), 4 Cottonwood (Populus), 7 Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia) and 1 dead Alder (Alnus). However, the loss of this relatively small amount of vegetation would not have a substantial effect on the overall quality, characteristics, or structure of the approximately 2.92 acres of riparian woodland that exists within the BSA and willows are expected to readily regenerate. To minimize impacts to riparian habitat, the Project was designed to avoid permanent impacts to the riparian woodland. This was accomplished by expanding the sediment basin design to the north instead of removing all sediment within the basin’s original 1995 design footprint. Permits will be obtained from CDFW (Streambed Alteration Agreement) and RWQCB (Water Quality Certification). Permit requirements will be followed to minimize impacts to water quality and riparian habitat. Temporary and permanent impacts to riparian habitat will be minimized through implementation of Mitigation Measure BIO-3 such that their impacts would be less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. c) Would the Project have a substantial adverse effect on state or federally protected wetlands (including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other means? A wetland delineation was conducted by Vollmar Natural Lands Consulting in January of 2023. Vollmar identified the following types of wetland habitats, quantified in TABLE 2 – 5 and as shown in FIGURE 2 – 2 below. FIGURE 2 – 3 shows impacts to wetlands by Project components. TABLE 2 – 5: WETLANDS AND WATERS WITHIN THE PROJECT BOUNDARIES Wetland/Water Type Acres Temporary Impacts (Acres) Permanent Impacts (Acres) Riparian Woodland 1.74 0.30 0.21 Seasonal Creek 0.78 0.18 0.02 Perennial Marsh 0.23 0.21 0.02 Seasonal Wetland 1.04 0.89 0.13 Riparian Wetland 1.18 0.02 0.03 TOTAL 4.98 1.6 0.41 Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 52 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) FIGURE 2 – 2: WETLANDS AND WATERS WITHIN PROJECT BOUNDARY FIGURE 2 – 3: WETLANDS AND WATERS WITH IMPACTS BY PROJECT ELEMENT Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 53 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) 1.6 acres of temporary impacts to wetlands and waters would occur due to sediment removal from the basin, expansion of the sediment basin, modifications to the fish passage structure, and upstream channel modifications. 0.41 acres of permanent impacts to wetlands and waters would occur from the construction of the training berms and platforms, construction of the community amenities, and construction of the trash deflection bollards. This Project was designed to be self-mitigating, and no compensatory mitigation is anticipated because the Project would result in an increase in wetlands and waters from the expansion of the sediment basin. Though the Project activities would result in permanent impacts to wetlands and waters, they would not change or convert the wetlands and waters to upland or non-wetland/water land types. Temporary and permanent impacts to riparian habitat will be minimized through implementation of Mitigation Measure BIO-3 such that their impacts would be less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. d) Would the Project interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of wildlife nursery sites? There are no wildlife nurseries within the Project Site. Wildcat Creek provides a movement corridor for wildlife species, including western pond turtle and steelhead, and adjacent riparian habitats provide a movement corridor for migratory birds and mammals. The Project area does not provide suitable habitat for salmonids for any life stage (FlowWest, 2023). The Project area is designated critical habitat for the Central California Coastal steelhead (O. mykiss). However, steelhead have not recently been documented in the project area of Wildcat Creek (Pers. Comm. NOAA Fisheries 2022). The Project will require work within the channel of Wildcat Creek, and potentially introduce impacts to fish during construction. However, as described in Section IV.a above, the construction in-water work window will avoid the steelhead migration window and impacts to fish will be avoided by implementing Mitigation Measure BIO-5 for fish. The Project would not result in permanent disruption to movement of terrestrial wildlife species in the area. The Project includes new fencing, which would extend approximately 750 feet from the eastern edge of the gate at the end of the Verde Mini Park along the northern edge of the trail and terminating at the fish passage overlook. The fencing will be designed to ensure wildlife can safely pass through the fence and their movement would not be restricted by following USDA Natural Resources Conservation best practices to ensure species such as migratory birds can traverse the fence and its footings. By retrofitting the fish passage structure and sediment basin to meet fish passage criteria and improving channel conveyance by modifying the flood control channel, steelhead and other species such as the Western Pond Turtle may utilize the Project area for a migration corridor once the Project is completed, and improve the movement corridor for wildlife in the long term. Temporary impacts include construction activities, vegetation and tree removal, and increased noise and human presence which could result in potential impacts to movement of nesting or foraging Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 54 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) special-status bird species. Temporary construction-related activities may temporarily inhibit dispersal, migration, and daily movement of wildlife. However, Mitigation Measure BIO-7 would mitigate these temporary impacts by avoiding the main times and areas in which birds would be moving through the Project Site. Therefore, the impact would be less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. e) Would the Project conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance? The Project would not conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources. The trees that would be removed occur within the District right-of-way which is not subject to the County Tree Ordinance (Contra Costa County Code [CCC] Title 8, Chapter 816-6.10(6). Therefore, the impact would be less-than-significant. f) Would the Project conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan? The Project is not located within an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan. Therefore, there would be no impact. Sources of Information California Department of Fish and Wildlife. 2005. California Wildlife Habitat Relationships System. California Department of Fish and Wildlife - California Interagency Wildlife Task Group. Available at: https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=1659#:~:text=Nest%20placed%20near %20top%20of,meets%20water%20requirements%20from%20prey. Accessed March 13, 2024. Contra Costa County. 2005. Contra Costa County General Plan 2005-2020. Contra Costa County Community Development Department: Chapter 8, Conservation Element, Chapter 7, Public Facilities/Services Element. Website: https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/4732/General-Plan. Accessed January 6, 2023. Contra Costa County. 2023. Ordinance Code Chapter 816-6 Tree Protection and Preservation. Website: https://library.municode.com/ca/contra_costa_county/codes/ordinance_code?nodeId=TIT8ZO _DIV816TR_CH816-6TRPRPR. Accessed January 13, 2023. Federal Register. 2000. Designated critical habitat: critical habitat for 19 evolutionarily significant units of salmon and steelhead in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and California. 7764, Vol. 65, No. 32, Rules and Regulations. Final rule. Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and National Marine Fisheries Service, Wednesday, February 16, 2000. National Marine Fisheries Service. 2009. Designation of Critical Habitat for the threatened Southern Distinct Population Segment of North American Green Sturgeon Final Biological Report. Website: https://repository.library.noaa.gov/view/noaa/18683. Accessed February 27, 2024. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 55 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Vollmar. January 2023. Delineation of Aquatic Features Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 56 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 5. CULTURAL RESOURCES – Would the Project: a) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource pursuant to §15064.5? b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource pursuant to §15064.5? c) Disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of formal cemeteries? Contra Costa County Historic Resources Inventory CULTURAL RESOURCES SUMMARY a) Would the Project cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource pursuant to California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines Section 15064.5? CEQA requires lead agencies to determine if a project will have an adverse impact on a significant cultural resource (which includes historical, archaeological, and tribal cultural resources) (Public Resources Code Sections 21084, 21084.1, 21083.2). The agency must first determine if a resource is historically significant, and then determine if the Project would cause a "substantial adverse change" in its significance (Public Resource Code 21068, CEQA Guidelines 15382). According to CEQA Guidelines, a resource is considered historically significant if it 1) is listed in or has been determined eligible for listing in the California Register of Historical Resources (CRHR); 2) is included in a local register of historical resources, as defined in Public Resources Code 5020.1(k); 3) has been identified as significant in an historical resources survey, as defined in Public Resources Code 5024.1(g); or 4) is determined to be historically significant by the CEQA lead agency [CCR Title 14, Section 15064.5(a)]. The following CRHR eligibility criteria need to be considered when making a significance determination: 1. Associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of California’s history and cultural heritage; 2. Associated with the lives of persons important in our past; 3. Embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, region, or method of construction or represents the work of an important creative individual, or possesses high artistic values; or 4. Has yielded, or may be likely to yield, information important in prehistory or history. To be considered a historical resource for the purpose of CEQA, the resource must also have integrity, which is the authenticity of a resource’s physical identity evidenced by the survival of characteristics that existed during the resource’s period of significance. Listing in the CRHR is not necessary for a resource to be considered a historical resource. A historical resource includes, but is not limited to, any object, building, structure, site, area, Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 57 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) place, record, or manuscript that is historically or archaeologically significant (PRC Section 5020.1). California Public Resources Code Section 21083.2 also addresses the identification and protection of unique archaeological resources. A “unique archaeological resource” is an archaeological artifact, object, or site for which there is a high probability that it meets any of the following criteria: 1. Contains information needed to answer important scientific research questions and that there is a demonstrable public interest in that information. 2. Has a special and particular quality, such as being the oldest of its type or the best available example of its type. 3. Is associated with a scientifically recognized important prehistoric or historic person or event. In most situations, resources that meet the definition of a unique archaeological resource also meet the definition of historical resource. As a result, it is current professional practice to evaluate cultural resources for significance based on their eligibility for listing in the CRHR. Adverse change is defined as physical demolition, destruction, relocation, or alteration of the resource or its immediate surroundings such that the significance of the historical resource would be materially impaired. The significance of a historical resource is materially impaired when a project: demolishes or materially alters in an adverse manner those physical characteristics of an historical resource that convey its historical significance and that justify its inclusion in, or eligibility for inclusion in the California Register, Local Register, or as determined by a lead agency for purposes of CEQA (CEQA Guidelines 15064.5(b)(1-2)(A- C). The District maintains a Historic Resource Inventory. The most recent version was updated in July 2019 and contains a list of historic resources organized by area. None of the listed resources are located within the Project Site. A cultural resources survey was prepared for the Project Site on June 16, 2022 by Tom Origer & Associates. A review (NWIC File No. 21-1799) was completed of the archaeological site base maps and records, survey reports, and other materials on file at the Northwest Information Center (NWIC), Sonoma State University, Rohnert Park by Eileen Barrow, M.A./RPA on April 26, 2022. The records search identified two resources within a 0.5-mile radius of the Project Site (P-07-000152 and P-07-000813). P-07-000813 is the Burlington Northern Sante Fe Railroad bridge and will not be touched or affected by Project activities. However, P-07-000152 has a high potential to contain human remains and additional investigations were conducted. Further investigations, including pedestrian surveys, a ground- penetrating radar (GPR) study, and tribal consultation with Confederated Villages with Lisjan Nation (CVLN) were conducted to determine if the site may extend into the Project Site and could be impacted by Project activities. A pedestrian survey was conducted on May 12, 2022 by Eileen Barrow and Lena Murphy. No evidence of the site was observed within the Project Site; however, a great amount of fill within the APE has obscured the ground surface and additional investigation was recommended. A backhoe study was also recommended to determine if P-07-000152 is within the APE since fill within the APE did not allow for determination at the time of the survey. As discussed in Section XVIII. Tribal Cultural Resources, the method of subsurface investigation was agreed upon with CVLN was ground-penetrating radar. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 58 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) The ground-penetrating radar study, conducted in late 2023, used ground-penetrating radar (GPR) to identify potential archaeological site deposits and indicators within and near the Project Site (Byram, 2024). The GPR study identified transects, over which the GPR machinery took readings to identify changes in the strata data that could be indicative of an archaeological site. More detail on used techniques is described at www.featuresurvey.com. The study notes that, “while GPR is very useful for identifying archaeological features such as pits and foundations…, there are limitations to the technique based on equipment, soil conditions, surface obstacles, buried utilities, and other site variability such as feature preservation” (Byram, 2023). The study identified no evidence of buried strata indicative of a resource at depths up to 6 feet (i.e. the depths that GPR could penetrate) within the Project area (Byram, 2023). Though GPR cannot conclusively rule out the presence or absence of P- 07-000152 or other resources, monitoring will occur with an archaeologist and tribal monitor for excavation depths of 4.5 to 16 feet, which corresponds to the maximum depth of excavation. The potential for subsurface resources cannot be completely ruled out and Project construction may encounter unanticipated historic or pre-historic resources; therefore, the following Mitigation Measures will be followed which require cultural resources sensitivity training for construction staff and the presence of a qualified Archaeological Monitor and Tribal Monitor during any ground disturbance that would reduce potential impacts to historic resources that may be discovered during Project construction. If a potential resource is identified, construction would be required to stop until appropriate identification and treatment measures are implemented in the event subsurface resources are discovered during Project construction. With implementation of Mitigation Measure CUL-1: Environmentally Sensitive Area and Archaeological and Tribal Monitoring and CUL-2: BMPs and Archaeological and Tribal Monitoring, the Project would have a less than significant impact with mitigation incorporated. Impact CUL-1: Development of the Project could disturb unanticipated historic resources. Mitigation Measures CUL-1: Environmentally Sensitive Area and Archaeological and Tribal Monitoring • An Environmentally Sensitive Area (ESA) shall be established in areas where excavation activities deeper than 4.5 feet would occur in previously undisturbed soil. The horizontal and vertical ESA shall be delineated on all project plans. A vertical ESA limit of 16 feet will be established, and no Project-related activities (e.g., excavation, trenching) shall take place below the vertical ESA limit. • An archaeological monitoring plan shall be prepared prior to any ground disturbance. The plan shall outline the procedures for discoveries during construction; the chain of command and responsible parties; and special procedures should human remains be encountered. • Archaeological monitoring by a qualified archaeologist shall be conducted during all ground disturbing activities within the boundaries of the Environmentally Sensitive Area that yield visible spoils between 4.5 feet below current ground surface and 16 Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 59 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) feet below current ground surface. A daily archaeological monitoring log shall be completed by the archaeological monitor and submitted weekly to the County of Contra Costa for review. Should archaeological resources or human remains be encountered the procedures outlined in the monitoring plan shall be implemented. • Tribal monitoring by a qualified Tribal monitor approved by the Confederated Villages of Lisjan Nation, the Tribe that consulted on this project pursuant to Assembly Bill 52 (the “Tribe”), shall be conducted during all ground disturbing activities within the boundaries of the Environmentally Sensitive Area between 4.5 feet below current ground surface and 16 feet below current ground surface. The Tribal monitor shall complete daily monitoring logs that provide descriptions of the day’s activities, including construction activities, locations, soil, and any cultural materials identified. CUL-2: BMPs and Archaeological and Tribal Monitoring • Contractor shall be notified of the possibility of encountering historic, archaeological, or paleontological materials during ground-disturbing activities. A standard inadvertent discovery clause will be included in every construction contract to inform Contractors of requirements during construction. • Prior to the initiation of construction activities, a qualified archaeologist and Tribal monitor shall provide Worker Environmental Awareness Program (WEAP) training to construction personnel with an overview of applicable laws, Project mitigation measures, and procedures to be followed with regards to historical, archaeological, and Tribal resources that may be encountered over the course of the Project. • Procedures for discovery include: o If potential cultural materials are discovered during construction, the Contractor shall cease all ground disturbing activities within a 100-foot radius of the find. The Contractor shall immediately notify the District Resident Engineer or their designated representative to request a qualified archaeologist and Confederated Villages of Lisjan Nation representative to assess the nature and significance of the find. o If the finding(s) is determined to be potentially significant, the archaeologist in consultation with the Tribal representative shall develop a research design and treatment plan outlining management of the resource, analysis, reporting of the find, and curation or reburial of cultural items. Preservation in place (i.e., avoidance) is typically the preferred manner of treatment of Tribal resources and cultural items. o Any previously undiscovered resources found during construction within the Project Site shall be recorded on appropriate California Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) 523 forms and shall be submitted to Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development, the Northwest Information Center (NWIC), and the California Office of Historic Preservation (OHP), as required. b) Would the Project cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource pursuant to California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines Section 15064.5? As part of the background cultural resource studies prepared for the Project, Tom Origer & Associates conducted records searches and a pedestrian survey, and Byram Associates conducted a GPR field investigation. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 60 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) As described above in Section V.a, the NWIC search identified two archaeological resources within a 0.5-mile radius of the Project Site which includes areas of permanent and temporary impacts. Tom Origer & Associates also completed a Native American Consultation and Sacred Land database search. The Native American Heritage Commission’s (NAHC) review of the Sacred Land database indicated they had no information about the presence of Native American cultural resources in the immediate Project area. The NAHC provided a list of 11 Native American tribal contacts who might have information about cultural materials within or near the Project Site. Tom Origer & Associates sent letters requesting information from these tribal representatives on April 15, 2022. To date, one Project specific response was received via follow-up email on November 14, 2022. As described further in Section XVIII.b, the District conducted Tribal Consultation with the Confederated Villages of Lisjan Nation in order to agree to measures to mitigate or avoid a significant effect on a tribal cultural resource. An agreement was reached, and consultation was concluded on March 18, 2024 after several meetings to evaluate the potential presence of resources within the Project Site. As described above in Section V.a, the pedestrian survey conducted by Tom Origer & Associates on April 26, 2022 noted that the presence or absence of an archaeological resource could not be confirmed during the pedestrian survey. The GPR field investigation did not identify evidence of buried strata indicative of particular resources that were the focus of the study (Byram, 2023). The presence of a recorded resource possibly within the Project Site, information shared by the Confederated Villages of Lisjan and their associates, and the inability to conclusively determine the limits of the known resource leaves the potential to encounter an archaeological resource high. While no evidence of the site was observed within the Project Site, fill is present within the Project Site to depths of 3.5 to 4 feet, which has obscured the native soil layer. It is unknown if the resource is present below the fill. As described in Section IV.a, the GPR study did not identify the presence of any buried resources in the 0 to 6 feet beneath the areas of excavation. Beyond the two NWIC records, no other resources have been documented within the Project Site, and no other resources were identified from a NAHC Sacred Lands File search or through outreach to Native American tribal representatives. By conducting this GPR investigation prior to construction, as well as implementing Mitigation Measures CUL-1 and CUL-2, the impact would be less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. IMPACT CUL-2: Project construction could cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource Mitigation Measures CUL-1: Environmentally Sensitive Area and Archaeological and Tribal Monitoring CUL-2: BMPs and Archaeological and Tribal Monitoring Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 61 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) c) Would the Project disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of formal cemeteries? No human remains or cemeteries are known to exist within or near the Project Site (Origer, 2022). However, the site type identified in the NWIC record search has high archaeological sensitivity. Though the investigations described previously indicated no presence of buried human remains, Project construction may unearth unanticipated historical or pre-historic archaeological resources. With implementation of Mitigation Measures CUL-1 provided in V.a, and CUL-3: Impact to previously undiscovered human remains, Project impacts on human remains would be less-than- significant with mitigation incorporated. IMPACT CUL-3: Project construction could inadvertently disturb buried human remains. Mitigation Measures CUL-1: Environmentally Sensitive Area and Archaeological and Tribal Monitoring CUL-3: Impact to Previously Undiscovered Human Remains • In the event of the accidental discovery or recognition of any human remains, there shall be no further excavation or disturbance within 100 feet of the remains until the Contra Costa County Coroner is contacted to determine whether the remains are Native American and if an investigation of the cause of death is required. At the same time, an archaeologist shall be contacted to assess the situation. • If the Coroner determines the remains to be Native American, the Coroner shall contact the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) within 24 hours of this identification. The NAHC shall identify a Most Likely Descendant (MLD) to inspect the site and provide recommendations for the proper treatment of the remains and associated funerary objects. • If the Confederated Villages of Lisjan Nation is designated as the MLD, the Tribe shall make every effort to recommend keeping ancestral remains and funerary objects in situ and protected. If removal of burials is necessary, Tribal representatives shall work with the qualified archaeologist to ensure that excavation and documentation are treated carefully, ethically, and respectfully. No photography or scientific study, destructive or non-destructive, shall be conducted on ancestral human remains. The archaeologist shall prepare a report of all activities, including the recommendations for the treatment of the human remains and any associated funerary objects as provided by the MLD. The report shall be submitted to the District, the Northwest Information Center, and the Tribe. • Tribal representatives shall rebury the Native American human remains and associated funerary objects with appropriate dignity either: 1) In accordance with the recommendations of the MLD if available; or 2) In the project vicinity at a location mitigated between the Confederated Villages of Lisjan Nation representative and the County, where the reburial would be protected in perpetuity and would not be subject to further subsurface disturbance. The discovery is to be documented on DPR523 forms and otherwise kept confidential and secure to prevent any further disturbance. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 62 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Sources of Information Byram Archaeological Consulting, LLC. 2023. Archaeological Ground-Penetrating Radar for the Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project, Richmond, CA. Contra Costa County. 2005. Contra Costa County General Plan 2005-2020: Chapter 9 Open Space Element. Website: https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/4732/General-Plan. Accessed January 6, 2023. Tom Origer & Associates. 2022. Cultural Resources Study for the Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 63 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 6. ENERGY – Would the Project: a) Result in potentially significant environmental impact due to wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary consumption of energy resources, during project construction or operation? b) Conflict with or obstruct a state or local plan for renewable energy or energy efficiency ? ENERGY SUMMARY a) Would the Project result in potentially significant environmental impact due to wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary consumption of energy resources, during project construction or operation? Construction of the Project would result in fuel consumption from the use of construction tools and equipment, truck trips to haul material, and vehicle trips generated from construction workers commuting to and from the site. Construction activities and corresponding fuel energy consumption would last less than one year in total and localized, as the use of diesel fuel and heavy-duty equipment would not be a long-term condition of the Project. In addition, there are no unusual Project characteristics that would cause the use of construction equipment or haul vehicles that would be less energy efficient compared with other similar construction sites in other parts of the State. The Project is limited to improvement of an existing sediment basin and fish passage structure, and will not require energy once it is constructed. The maintenance required following project construction would be less or equivalent to the amount of maintenance needed for the Project Site’s existing conditions. Therefore, Project impacts would be less-than-significant. b) Would the Project conflict with or obstruct a state or local plan for renewable energy or energy efficiency? The Project would not conflict with or obstruct a state or local plan for renewable energy or energy efficiency, including the 2015 Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan (CAP). As noted above, the Project would result in an incremental increase in energy usage during construction. However, this would be temporary in nature. Operation of the Project would not require change from existing condition. Construction workers would comply with all State requirements designed to minimize idling and associated emissions, which also minimizes use of fuel. Specifically, idling of commercial vehicles and offroad equipment would be limited to five minutes in accordance with the Commercial Motor Vehicle Idling Regulation (MVIR) and the Off-Road Regulation (ORR). Construction compliance with the MVIR/ORR as described would also prevent the Project from conflicting with this CAP goal. Therefore, Project impacts would be less-than-significant. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 64 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Sources of Information Contra Costa County. 2015. Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan. Website: https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/39791/Contra-Costa-County-Climate- Action-Plan?bidId=. Accessed February 14, 2023. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 65 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 7. GEOLOGY AND SOILS – Would the Project: a) Directly or indirectly cause potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury or death involving: i) Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as delineated on the most recent Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the State Geologist for the area or based on other substantial evidence of a known fault? ii) Strong seismic ground shaking? iii) Seismic-related ground failure, including liquefaction? iv) Landslides? b) Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil? c) Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable, or that would become unstable as a result of the Project and potentially result in on- or off-site landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction or collapse? d) Be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18-1-B of the Uniform Building Code (1994), creating substantial direct or indirect risks to life or property? e) Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative wastewater disposal systems where sewers are not available for the disposal of wastewater? f) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site or unique geologic feature? GEOLOGY AND SOILS SUMMARY a) Would the Project directly or indirectly cause potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury or death involving: i) Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as delineated on the most recent Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the State Geologist for the area or based on other substantial evidence of a known fault? The Project would not cause potential substantial adverse effects including the risk of loss, injury, or death due to the rupture of a known earthquake fault because it is not located within an Earthquake Fault Zone for active faults as defined by the State Geologist (CE&G 2022). The nearest mapped active fault is the Hayward Fault, located approximately 1.1 miles northeast of the site. Therefore, the potential for surface rupture due to primary faulting at the site is considered to be low. In addition to this, the presence of construction workers is temporary, does not include the injection of groundwater Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 66 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) or oil, and therefore would not exacerbate the occurrence of fault rupture. Therefore, the risk of damage to property or injury/death to people as a result of fault rupture would be less-than- significant. ii. Strong seismic ground shaking? The Project is located in the greater San Francisco Bay Area, which has numerous active fault systems traversing through it, including the Hayward Fault, Concord Fault, Franklin Fault, and Calaveras Fault. The Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) developed Earthquake Shaking Hazard Maps, which predict the potential for ground shaking during major earthquakes on the active faults in the Bay Area. The Project is located in an area with high earthquake shaking potential, rated as ‘Violent’ shaking severity on the Modified Mercalli Intensity scale for a Magnitude 8.4 earthquake on the Hayward fault. The Project will include the demolition of the existing fish passage structure in order to create a more natural fish passage corridor. It is likely that the fish passage structure would be subjected to a major earthquake during its design life of 25 years. Ground movements resulting from an earthquake may cause damage to the concrete structure. This hazard would be taken into consideration when designing the Project components for the structure. Construction of the fish passage structure will follow the American Concrete Institute’s (ACI) design requirements for concrete and the American Institute of Steel Construction’s (AISC) design requirements for steel, which have taken earthquake standards into account. The project construction will also follow any requirements outlined by the California Building Code (CBC) for the Project’s structural elements. This would include the consideration of things such as seismic activity. The Project’s community amenities will not be affected as seismic activity due to their smaller sizes, and the basin does not have any structures. With the implementation of geotechnical design recommendations, impacts relative to seismic shaking and seismically induced ground failure would be less-than-significant. iii. Seismic-related ground failure, including liquefaction? Seismic shaking can trigger seismic-induced ground-failures caused by liquefaction. Loose soils and uncompacted or poorly compacted artificial fills located below the water table are susceptible to liquefaction. The geotechnical design report shows that the subsurface profile consists of lean to fat clays (which are not typically prone to liquefaction), and the reference borings and Cone Penetration Testing (CPT) probes show soil layers that are medium dense to dense. With low risk of liquefaction due to the subsurface profile and incorporation of foundation reinforcement into the Project design, the impacts relative to seismic-induced ground failure such as liquefaction would be less-than-significant. iv. Landslides? Landslides generally consist of any type of ground movement that occurs primarily due to gravity acting on an over-steepened slope and can occur due to excessive precipitation, human activities, or induced by seismic activity. The Project Site is generally flat, which makes landslides unlikely. In addition, the Contra Costa County General Plan shows that the Project Site is not located on a site Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 67 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) susceptible to landslides or an area where landslides previously occurred. Therefore, the impacts would be less-than-significant. b) Would the Project result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil? The Project would not result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil. Modified grades associated with the completed Project would result in negligible changes in topography. Construction of the Project would temporarily increase the exposure of soils to wind and erosion from grading and excavation activities. The demolition of the existing structure is anticipated to generate concrete and sediment material, which would be removed from the Project Site. The removal of sediment from the existing sediment basin, expansion of the sediment basin, and construction of access platforms would generate material as well. Fill and other materials would be imported, primarily for construction of the fish passage structure, the sediment basin training berms, access road, and community amenities. The Project will be consistent with EPA’s National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit, EPA’s Stormwater Construction Pollution Prevention Permit (SWPPP), and all best management practices. Consistency with these laws and permits would minimize any potential soil erosion resulting from project construction such that there would not be substantial soil erosion or loss of topsoil. The Project will be designed in accordance with all applicable geotechnical and earthquake design criteria and the regulations detailed in the Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Act. Therefore, the impact would be less-than-significant. c) Would the Project be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable, or that would become unstable as a result of the Project and potentially result in on- or off-site landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction or collapse? The Project would not be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable. As discussed above in Impacts a)iii) and a)iv), impacts related to liquefaction, lateral spreading (a ground failure associated with liquefaction), and landslides would be less-than-significant. Subsidence and collapse are ground failures that can occur as a result of groundwater or oil extraction. Groundwater may be extracted during construction to dewater the areas below the groundwater level. This amount of water removed would be temporary and not in significant quantities to affect subsidence in the area, due both to the amount of groundwater removed as well as type of soil in the Project area, which is not prone to subsidence. The Project does not include the operational extraction of groundwater or oil and would not otherwise create soil that is unstable. Therefore, impacts would be less-than-significant. d) Would the Project be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18-1-B of the Uniform Building Code (1994), creating substantial direct or indirect risks to life or property? The Project would not create substantial risks to life or property due to being located on expansive soil. The geotechnical design report identified expansive soils on the Project Site. Expansive soils can undergo significant volume change with changes in moisture content. They shrink and harden when dry and expand and soften when wet, which could cause building foundations to crack or heave resulting in substantial risks to life or property. This would be a risk for the fish passage structure. However, the geotechnical design report includes recommendations for the types of material used for Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 68 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) engineered fill as well as fill placement and compaction which would address the risks related to expansive soil. Therefore, impacts related to expansive soils would be less-than-significant. e) Would the Project have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative wastewater disposal systems where sewers are not available for the disposal of wastewater? Septic tanks and alternative wastewater disposal systems are not part of the Project. Therefore, the Project would have no impact. f) Would the Project directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site or unique geologic feature? The Project would not destroy a unique paleontological resource, site, or unique geologic feature. Paleontological resources are the fossilized evidence of past life found in the geologic record. The cultural resources survey conducted by Tom Origer & Associates for the Project indicates that the soils with the Project area belong to the Botella and Sycamore series. The geotechnical report required drilling soil boring logs from an elevation about 9 to 10 feet above the existing channel creek bottom. The maximum depth of digging during project construction would be approximately 14 feet, but this is limited to the fishway. The average depth of digging during the Project construction would be approximately 6 feet. Therefore, it is unlikely that paleontological resources or geologic features will be encountered during project construction. However, should any of those resources be encountered during project construction, Project contract specifications would stipulate that construction shall stop in the area if such potential resources are discovered. In addition, Mitigation Measure CUL-1 will be followed in the event subsurface resources are discovered. Therefore, the impact would be less-than- significant with mitigation incorporated. Sources of Information CE&G. 2022. Draft Geotechnical Design Report, Wildcat Creek Fish Passage Project. Contra Costa County. 2005. Contra Costa County General Plan 2005-2020: Chapter 10 Safety Element. Website: https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/4732/General-Plan. Accessed January 6, 2023. State of California Department of Conservation. 2019. California Geologic Survey – EQ Zapp: California Earthquake Hazards Zone Application. Website: https://www.conservation.ca.gov/cgs/geohazards/eq-zapp. Accessed January 13, 2023. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 69 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 8. GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS – Would the Project: a) Generate greenhouse gas emissions, either directly or indirectly, that may have a significant impact on the environment? b) Conflict with an applicable plan, policy or regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases? GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS SUMMARY a) Would the Project generate greenhouse gas emissions, either directly or indirectly, that may have a significant impact on the environment? The 2017 Clean Air Plan: Spare the Air, Cool the Climate (Plan) is the most recently adopted regional plan which provides a regional strategy to improve Bay Area air quality, meet public health goals and reduce GHG emissions. Through Plan implementation, the BAAQMD’s goal is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030 and to 80 percent below 1990 levels by 2050 . The BAAQMD’s CEQA Air Quality Guidelines also assists lead agencies in complying with CEQA requirements regarding potentially adverse impacts on air quality. There are no formal BAAQMD quantitative significance thresholds for GHG emissions from construction activities. However, it requires the lead agency to quantify and disclosure project construction and operational GHG emissions is recommended and to make a determination of impacts related to meeting AB 32 reduction goals. The Project would generate greenhouse gas emissions during its construction including site preparation, sediment removal from the existing sediment basin, construction of the fish passage structure, sediment basin improvements, community amenities, and cleanup/revegetation. Construction activities would occur over about six months in 2025. GHG emissions would also come from the use of trucks transporting equipment and material to/from the site, and from the motor vehicles of the construction workers. Project construction GHG emissions were estimated using the CalEEMod model (as described in Chapter 2, Section 3 – Air Quality) to be about 532 metric tons of CO2e from the equipment, trucks and worker vehicles over the total construction period. Once the Project is complete, there will be no operational GHG emissions. The Project components include a fish passage structure, sediment basin, and recreational area, none of which would have any associated GHG emissions. Thus, as the significance thresholds require, there will be no natural gas use, no inefficient energy use and no VMT generated. However, existing bi-annual inspection and potential excavation of the low flow channel through the sediment basin will continue as before, but likely be less frequent after Project installation. Community use of the recreational amenities will likely increase from implementation of the Project, but most community travel to/from the Project Site Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 70 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) will likely be by foot or bicycle and have no associated GHG emissions. Therefore, Project impacts would be less-than-significant. b) Would the Project conflict with an applicable plan, policy or regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases? Assembly Bill 32 (AB 32), the California Global Warming Solutions Act (2006), required the CARB to lower State GHG emissions to 1990 levels by 2020—a 25 percent reduction statewide with mandatory caps for significant GHG emission sources. AB 32 directed CARB to develop discrete early actions to reduce GHG while preparing the Climate Change Scoping Plan to identify how best to reach the 2020 goal (CARB, Assembly Bill 32 Overview). To attain the longer-range GHG emissions reductions required by AB 32 (i.e., reducing GHG emissions to 40% below 1990 levels by 2030), several additional climate change strategies were introduced in 2015: (1) reducing present petroleum use in cars and trucks by up to 50 percent; (2) increasing from one-third to 50 percent the share of California’s electricity derived from renewable sources; (3) doubling the energy efficiency savings achieved at existing buildings and making heating fuels cleaner; (4) reducing the release of methane, black carbon, and other short-lived GHGs; (5) managing farm and rangelands, forests and wetlands to more efficiently store carbon; and (6) periodically updating the State's climate adaptation strategy. In its most recent revision, California’s 2020 Climate Change Scoping Plan lays out the sector-by- sector strategies for achieving carbon neutrality (i.e., GHGs 85% below 1990 levels) by 2045 or earlier. An important aspect of this Scoping Plan includes reducing further the remaining emissions by ensuring that California’s natural and working lands — forests, shrub-lands/chaparral, croplands, wetlands, etc. — incorporate and store more carbon in the trees, plants, and soil of those lands that cover 90 percent of the state (CARB. California’s 2022 Climate Change Scoping Plan Fact Sheet and CDFW Wetlands Restoration for Greenhouse Gas Reduction Program). The Project would not conflict with GHG reduction goals set forth in Assembly Bill 32, including the Recommended Actions identified by the 2020 CARB Climate Change Scoping Plan. The BAAQMD’s 2017 Clean Air Plan contains 85 control measures aimed at reducing air pollutant and GHG emissions in the Bay Area, but none are relevant to wildlife habitat improvements such as the Project’s. Thus, there is no Project inconsistency with the 2017 Clean Air Plan. The Project is located within the jurisdictions of Contra Costa County, City of San Pablo, and City of Richmond. The Contra Costa County General Plan (General Plan) addresses reduction of GHG emissions within the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County through a series of 36 local programs and 23 recommended policy measures related to transportation, land use, building energy, water, waste, and green infrastructure. The Project would have no operational impacts in any of these sectors. The Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan estimated the total annual GHG emissions to be about 1.5 million metric tons of CO2e. Comparatively, the Project’s estimated construction emissions would be about 532 metric tons, a de minimis and temporary increase that would not hinder Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 71 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) the District’s progress towards its GHG reduction targets. The Project’s public access features would serve mostly Verde Elementary School children and nearby residents who would travel to the site mostly by foot or bicycle. Therefore, there would not be a significant increase in operational GHG emissions. Thus, there would be no Project conflict with County plans, policies, or regulations adopted for the purpose of reducing GHG emissions and the impact would be less-than-significant. Sources of Information BAAQMD. 2017 Clean Air Plan: Spare the Air, Cool the Climate. Website: https://www.baaqmd.gov/plans-and-climate/air-quality-plans/current-plans Contra Costa County. Contra Costa County Climate Action Plan (2015). Website: https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/8678/Climate-Action-Plan California’s Climate Change Assessments. California’s Changing Climate 2018 A Summary of Key Findings from California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. Website: https://www.energy.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2019-11/20180827_Summary_Brochure_ADA.pdf CARB. Current California GHG Emission Inventory Data Website: https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/ghg- inventory-data CARB. Assembly Bill 32 Overview Website: http://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/ab32/ab32.htm CARB. 2022 Scoping Plan for Achieving Carbon Neutrality Executive Summary. Website: https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2023-04/2022-sp-es.pdf CARB. California’s 2022 Climate Change Scoping Plan Fact Sheet https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/fact-sheets/californias-2022-climate-change-scoping-plan- fact-sheet California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). Wetlands Restoration for Greenhouse Gas Reduction Program Website: https://wildlife.ca.gov/Conservation/Watersheds/Greenhouse- Gas- Reduction#:~:text=The%20Wetlands%20Restoration%20for%20Greenhouse%20Gas%20Red uction%20Program,sequestration%20rates%20that%20can%20sequester%20carbon%20for% 20decades Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 72 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 9. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS – Would the Project: a) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials? b) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment? c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed school? d) Be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5 and, as a result, would create a significant hazard to the public or the environment? e) For a Project located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the Project result in a safety hazard or excessive noise for people residing or working in the Project area? f) Impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan? g) Expose people or structures, either directly or indirectly, to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving wildland fires? HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS SUMMARY a) Would the Project create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials? During construction, construction vehicles would travel to and from the site. Examples of construction vehicles include trucks and excavators, which would use hazardous materials, such as fuels (gasoline and diesel), oils and lubricants, and cleaners (which could include solvents and corrosives in addition to soaps and detergents). However, these hazardous materials would be in small quantities, therefore posing no hazard to construction workers or the public. Compliance with federal, state, and local hazardous materials regulations would minimize the risk to the public presented by these potential hazards during desilting. The Project would not involve routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials or involve potential releases of hazardous materials Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 73 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) into the environment beyond that which exists currently from the traveling public. Therefore, the impact would be less-than-significant. b) Would the Project create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the likely release of hazardous materials into the environment? The Project would not create a significant hazard to the public through the release of hazardous materials into the environment because the Project Site has not stored any hazardous materials, and there is not a history of hazardous material issues at the Project Site. A Hazardous Materials Report detailing the findings of multiple databases for any hazardous waste or substances from contaminated soil or groundwater was prepared by FlowWest in April 2022. The findings state that despite being located in an industrial area and that the Project Site was historically used as a nursery, there are no identified contamination concerns near the Project on any of the government databases, including the Department of Toxic Substances Control’s Hazardous Waste and Substances Site List—Site Cleanup (Cortese List). Though the Project Site does not have any history of hazardous material issues, soils in the Project Site could be contaminated with pesticides, herbicides, and metals from historical agricultural land use (nursery). Sediment excavated from the fish passage structure and sediment basin will be directly off-hauled and/or temporarily stockpiled in the vacant, upland area of the Project Site that is used by the District as a corporation yard for maintenance. Stockpile BMPs will be in place to reduce potential impacts from stockpiled material. Examples could include covering the stockpile with tarps to secure soil and routine inspection to prevent sediment transport. During soil placement, the pile will be graded, sloped and track-walked to prevent erosion. Excavated sediment may be off-hauled to the West County Wastewater District (WCWD). The soil will be tested as hazardous materials prior to off-haul to determine if the soil can be accepted by WCWD or otherwise, at alternate suitable location(s). If WCWD cannot accept the sediment, it will be properly managed/retained onsite until another user can be identified and/or disposed of at an appropriate permitted landfill. Appropriate safety measures would be in place during construction to isolate and protect the creek from contamination that could be associated with construction activities or from replacement of the concrete fish ladder. The SWPPP will be in place to avoid the likely release of hazardous materials into the creek. While the Project will not have long-term operational impacts, temporary impacts could occur during construction due to inadvertent discovery of contaminated water, disturbance of potentially contaminated soils during sediment removal and excavation, and demolition of the concrete fish passage structure. The disturbance will be limited in nature and potential for accidental release or exposure will be minimized with implementation of Mitigation Measure HAZ -1 through HAZ-4. IMPACT HAZ-1: Soil movement and fish passage concrete demolition activities could mobilize contaminants exposing construction workers, the general public, and the environment. MITIGATION MEASURE HAZ-1: Prepare and Implement a Hazardous Materials Dewatering and Management Plan The Project proponent or its contractor(s) shall develop and implement a Hazardous Materials Dewatering and Management Plan establishing procedures to manage potentially contaminated fluids encountered during construction of the Project to minimize potential impacts to the public or Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 74 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) environment from hazardous materials. The Plan shall identify proper protocols to test and handle potentially hazardous materials if any are found. The Plan shall identify potential licensed disposal facilities and their acceptance criteria; the chemicals to be analyzed to comply with those acceptance criteria, which shall include at a minimum TPH as gasoline, diesel, and motor oil, and BTEX compounds. The Plan shall identify the proper protocols for the following three dewatering fluid disposal options: • Groundwater with petroleum hydrocarbons (could be discharged to the WCWD under their Temporary Discharge Permit, providing the contaminant concentrations are within the Temporary Discharge Permit acceptance criteria and coverage under this permit is acquired prior to the discharge). • Groundwater with petroleum hydrocarbons could be pumped into trucks or portable storage containers and transported to an offsite licensed disposal facility permitted to accept the waste. • Groundwater with petroleum hydrocarbons could be treated onsite under the RWQCB’s General Waste Discharge Requirements for Discharge or Reclamation of Extracted and Treated Groundwater (RWQCB Order No. R2-2017-0048, NPDES Permit No. CAG912002). The pumped groundwater would be pumped into a settling tank to drop the sediments out of solution, and pumped through a treatment system (e.g., granular activated carbon [GAC] to decrease the concentration of TPH as diesel to less than 50 ug/L and TPH as motor oil to less than 100 ug analytically tested to verify that treatment has achieved the effluent limitations. Upon successful treatment, the water could be discharged to the ground. MITIGATION MEASURE HAZ-2: Pollutant and Hazardous Materials Handling • The Bay Area Air Quality Management District shall be notified through their Asbestos Notification System prior to demolition in compliance with the National Emissions Standards for Hazards Air Pollutants (NESHAP). • Worker safety recommendations for employees working at the site follow state and federal hazardous material handling regulations during construction activities. MITIGATION MEASURE HAZ-3: Soil Sampling and Investigation Prior to commencement of sediment excavation activities for either the sediment basin expansion or the community amenities, a soil sampling plan and results report shall be prepared for the District and soil samples shall be collected. The samples shall be analyzed for heavy metals identified in California Code of Regulations (CCR) Title 22. The samples shall also be analyzed for total petroleum hydrocarbons (diesel-range, gasoline, and motor oil), semi‐volatile organic compounds (SVOC), and pesticides. The sampling report indicating the results of the sampling shall be submitted to the District for review and approval. If no contamination is present, no further action is required. If contamination is present, Mitigation Measure HAZ-4 will be implemented. MITIGATION MEASURE HAZ-4: Implement Hazard Mitigation Plan Per Soil Sampling Report If soil testing results exceed applicable environmental screening levels (ESLs) the District shall follow the recommendations provided in the results report to minimize potential for accidental release of contaminants. Recommendations may include development and implementation of one or more of the following plans: • Preparation and implementation of a Health and Safety Plan: If recommended, a Health and Safety Plan would be prepared and implemented by the Contractor to provide appropriate Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 75 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) disclosure and information to the site workers and personnel of the contaminants present, hazard identification and awareness, and appropriate personal protective equipment and procedures to be used during construction of the Project. • Preparation and implementation of a Soil Management Plan: If recommended, a Soil Management Plan would be prepared by the District and implemented by the Contractor. Likely conditions are dust control and monitoring procedures, soil handing procedures, soil profiling, transportation and disposal procedure to ensure that the construction workers, residents and the general public are protected and that the Contractor understands and has plans and procedures for handling, managing, stockpiling, profiling, transporting and disposing of the contaminated soils at an appropriate licensed disposal facility. The plan shall include lines of reporting and responsibilities and authorities. The plan shall also detail how soil will be managed to reduce hazardous material exposure impacts from operational use of the Project Site by workers and the general public. The plan shall also be approved by appropriate regulatory agency(s) if necessary. • Preparation and implementation of an Air Monitoring Plan: If recommended, an Air Monitoring Plan would be prepared by the District and implemented by the Contractor during construction that presents specific air monitoring procedures to be used during potentially dust generating portions of the construction activities. The Air Monitoring Plan may include sampling and testing at intervals sufficient to understand and avoid potential exposure to workers, residents, and the general public. With implementation of Mitigation Measures HAZ-1 through HAZ-4, Project impacts will be less than significant with mitigation incorporated. c) Would the Project emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed school? The Project Site is located within 0.25 mile of an existing school, Verde Elementary School, which is located directly east of the Project Site. Construction activity will require the use of trucks carrying hazardous materials, such as diesel fuels. Although the Project would result in hazardous emissions and handle hazardous materials within 0.25 mile of a school, the Project would comply with Mitigation Measure HAZ-1 through HAZ-4 for reducing the exposure of hazards to Verde Elementary School. Therefore, the impact would be less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. d) Would the Project be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5 and, as a result, would it create a significant hazard to the public or the environment? The Project would not be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites. Government Code Section 65962.5 requires that the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) within the California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA) compile and update a list (Cortese List) of all hazardous waste facilities subject to corrective action. A Hazardous Materials Report prepared by FlowWest in April 2022 included a comprehensive search of multiple government databases, including the Department of Toxic Substances Control’s EnviroStor Database and Cortese List, State Water Boards’ GeoTracker, California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment’s (OEHHA) CalEnviroScreen, and State Water Resources Control Board’s Active Cease Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 76 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) and Desist Orders (CDOs) and Cleanup and Abatement Orders (CAOs). No identified contamination sites were located within ¼ mile of the Project Site. Therefore, there would be no impact. e) For a Project located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the Project result in a safety hazard or excessive noise for people residing or working in the Project area? The Project Site would not be located within an airport land use plan or within two miles of a public airport. The closest public airports are Gnoss Field Airport, located approximately 16.5 miles northwest of the Project Site, and Buchanan Field Airport, located approximately 16.5 miles east of the Project Site. Oakland International Airport is located approximately 18.5 miles southeast of the Project Site. At these distances, the Project is not located within an airport land use plan or within two miles of a public airport. Therefore, there would be no impact. f) Would the Project impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan? The Project would not impair or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan. During construction, it is expected that construction equipment and vehicles would be accessing and leaving the Project Site, however emergency vehicles will have access at all times. The County Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) outlines general procedures in response to emergency crises, such as evacuations. The County EOP includes information regarding evacuations and shelter- in-place orders and is also the entity that has the authority to issue these orders. The main arterial roads into and out of the Project vicinity are Richmond Parkway and Brookside Drive, which would serve as the main emergency response and evacuation routes into and out of the Project vicinity. In addition, there are secondary roads that could be used for emergency response and evacuation, such as Fred Jackson Way, Pittsburgh Avenue, and Parr Boulevard. With adherence to the procedures of the County EOP, the Project would not conflict with the County EOP or General Plan safety policies. Therefore, impacts related to emergency response and evacuation would be less-than-significant. g) Would the Project expose people or structures, either directly or indirectly, to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving wildland fires? The Project would not expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving wildland fires. According to CAL FIRE, the Project Site is located in a local responsibility area (LRA)- Incorporated and is not located in a LRA Fire Hazard Severity Zone. The nearest Fire Hazard Severity Zone is located approximately two miles southeast of the Project Site and is designated as a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. Given that the Project Site is mostly surrounded by developed land for light industrial use, the Project Site would not be prone to wildfires. Therefore, the impact would be less-than-significant. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 77 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Sources of Information CAL FIRE. 2007. Contra Costa County Fire Hazard Severity Zones in SRA. Contra Costa County. 2015. Emergency Operations Plan. Website: https://www.cocosheriff.org/home/showpublisheddocument/168/637284267426930000. Accessed January 13, 2023. FlowWest. 2022. Hazardous Materials Report. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 78 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 10. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY – Would the Project: a) Violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements or otherwise substantially degrade surface or ground water quality? b) Substantially decrease groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such that the Project may impede sustainable groundwater management of the basin? c) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river or through the addition of impervious surfaces, in a manner which would: i) Result in substantial erosion or siltation on - or off-site? ii) Substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner which would result in flooding on- or off-site? iii) Create or contribute runoff water which would exceed the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff? iv) Impede or redirect flood flows? d) In flood hazard, tsunami, or seiche zones, risk release of pollutants due to Project inundation? e) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of a water quality control plan or sustainable groundwater management plan? HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY SUMMARY a) Would the Project violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements or otherwise substantially degrade surface or ground water quality? The Project is located within the Wildcat Creek watershed. This approximately 17 square mile watershed drains the east side of the Berkeley hills, goes through both urban and natural environments, and drains into San Pablo Bay. Wildcat Creek is designated as an impaired waterbody under the Federal Clean Water Act due to the presence of diazinon, which is a pesticide. The drainage area in the Project area is expected to be subject to regulation by the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), the San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board (SFBRWQCB), and the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB). Impacts to the channels and associated wetlands require authorization with a Section 404 Individual Permit from the USACE, and a Section 401 Water Quality Certification from the SFBRWQCB. The 401 Water Quality Certification will address the waste discharge requirements of the SFRBRWQCB. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 79 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Project operation would have no negative water quality impacts; the improved fishway and sediment basin would have similar or improved impacts on water quality to existing conditions. The improved fish passage structure will operate similarly to the existing conditions, allowing sediment to pass through to the downstream sediment basin. Under existing conditions, the sediment basin is filled to capacity, so sediment travels downstream beyond the sediment basin and impacts water quality. The sediment basin would be emptied of sediment as part of the Project. Once emptied, the sediment basin would capture sediment from traveling downstream. The sediment basin would operate similarly to how it currently operates, with the same capacity as existing conditions and no change in the elevation of the downstream weir. Project construction would require excavation, grading, earthmoving, backfilling, and compaction, which, if water is present during construction, could impact water quality. Construction and ground disturbance activities associated with the Project would occur on the bed/banks of Wildcat Creek, within the fishway in the flood control structure, and in the sediment basin; water quality impacts, including turbidity impacts, could be significant in the immediate vicinity of construction activities. In addition, construction activities would require use of hazardous materials such as fuels and oils, which, if not managed appropriately, could become mobilized by runoff and contribute to non-point source pollution and degradation of water quality. Project construction would involve disturbance of more than one acre of land and is thus subject to the requirements of the NPDES Construction General Permit (SWRCB Order 2009-0009- DWQ). As a result, the Project proponent would be required to implement a SWPPP to prevent discharge of sediment or pollutants from the construction site. Mitigation Measure BIO-1 includes a summary of the requirements of the NPDES Construction General Permit. Compliance with this permit and implementation of Mitigation Measure HAZ-1 through HAZ-4, which would minimize potential for release of hazardous materials encountered in groundwater (described in Section 9, Hazards and Hazardous Materials), would reduce this impact to less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. b) Would the Project substantially decrease groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such that the Project may impede sustainable groundwater management of the basin? The Project will not require any withdrawals from an aquifer or groundwater table and will have a negligible effect on groundwater recharge, as the desilting will not change the nature of the Project Site. Therefore, the Project will have no impact. c) Would the Project substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river or through the addition of impervious surfaces, in a manner which would: i. Result in substantial erosion or siltation on- or off-site? The community amenities elements of the Project includes construction of hardscapes for play areas and walkways; however, a rain garden would be constructed and adequately sized to treat any additional stormwater generated by project activities. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 80 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Therefore, the Project will not increase the untreated impervious surface area within the Wildcat Creek watershed. An increase in impervious area could result in additional runoff water thus increasing the flow volumes, rates, and peak durations from the loss of unpaved overland flow and native infiltration. However, the Project will not result in any changes to runoff patterns in the Wildcat Creek watershe d, and therefore associated impacts will not occur. BMPs for erosion and sediment control as identified in Best Management Practice BIO-1: General Construction-related Mitigation Measures and standard BMPs will be implemented during the Project. Therefore, Project impacts will be less than significant with mitigation incorporated. ii. Substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner which would result in flooding on- or off-site? As discussed in Subsection (i), above, the Project would result in a negligible increase in impervious surface as compared to existing conditions, and an appropriately sized stormwater treatment feature will be built in association to manage any additional surface runoff created from the increase in impervious surfaces as part of the community amenities; because of this treatment, surface runoff would not increase. Following sediment removal, the risk of flooding on- and off-site will decrease compared to the risk under current conditions. The Project will not increase exposure of people or property to flooding. In fact, one the goal of the Project is to lessen the potential exposure of people and property to flooding by restoring capacity to the flood control channel. Therefore, the impact would be less-than-significant. iii. Create or contribute runoff water which would exceed the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff? Construction would occur during summer months when zero to little flow or precipitation would occur. No additional water or temporary impervious surfaces would contribute water to stormwater drainage systems. The Project would not reduce the capacity of the sediment basin, nor would impervious areas added as part of the community amenities create an amount of runoff water that would exceed the capacity of the existing stormwater drainage system. The rain garden would capture the stormwater. Therefore, the Project would not result in any polluted runoff. This Project would not create or contribute significant runoff that would exceed the capacity of the improvements, therefore there would be no impact. iv. Impede or redirect flood flows? The Project would not impede or significantly redirect flood flows. As discussed in Subsection (a) above, the Project will improve the hydraulic capacity of the channels and reduce flood risk to adjacent properties by excavating sediment deposits from the channels which will facilitate movement of water during high flow events. Flood flow direction in the sediment basin would be shifted because of the training berms, which are designed to redirect flows to prevent the dispersion of flow through the sediment basin that occurs in the existing condition. The fish passage structure would be lowered and is designed to prevent sediment build up, which occurs in the existing condition. Flood modeling shows that the Project would not cause a significant increase in water surface elevation in any areas (FlowWest 2023), therefore the impact would be less-than-significant. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 81 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) d) In flood hazard, tsunami, or seiche zones, would the Project risk release of pollutants due to Project inundation? Tsunami risks for the Bay Area were mapped by CalEMA and the project area is not at risk for tsunamis. In addition, the site is not in a seiche zone (Department of Conservation 2021). Construction of the Project would be required to comply with numerous hazardous materials regulations designed to ensure that hazardous materials are transported, used, stored, and disposed of in a safe manner to protect worker safety, and to reduce the potential for a release of construction-related fuels or other hazardous materials into the environment, including stormwater and downstream receiving water bodies the Project is in a flood hazard zone (FEMA 2023). But with implementation of mitigation measures HAZ-1 through HAZ-4, there will be no potential releases of pollutants related to the Project; therefore, the Project would have less than significant impact with mitigation incorporated. e) Would the Project conflict with or obstruct implementation of a water quality control plan or sustainable groundwater management plan? The Project would not conflict with the County Watershed Program (CWP) (water quality control plan) or the East Bay Plain Subbasin (EBP) Groundwater Sustainability Plan (GSP) (sustainable groundwater management plan). The Project would be required to comply with the terms of the Construction General Permit, which require the preparation and implementation of a SWPPP that would include BMPs to ensure reduction of pollutants from construction activities potentially entering surface or groundwater. NPDES compliance will also include requirements to treat any increase in runoff resulting from new impervious surfaces, including the new mini park and fish passage overlook, would be mitigated by the addition of rain gardens. The rain gardens, which will reduce pollutant loads to the creek, would also reduce pollutants to the EPB Subbasin. There would also be no use of or connection to groundwater related to the Project, beyond natural interactions between creeks and groundwater. Compliance with Mitigation Measure BIO-1, which includes the preparation and implementation of a SWPPP and compliance with the NPDES would reduce impacts related to consistency with the CWP and the East Bay Plain (EPB) Subbasin Groundwater Sustainability Plan (GSP) to less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. Sources of Information CDFW. 2013. Contra Costa County San Pablo Bay Watershed Stream Habitat Assessment Reports. Department of Conservation (DOC). 2024. Contra Costa County Tsunami Hazard Areas. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). 2024. National Flood Hazard Layer FIRMette. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 82 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 11. LAND USE AND PLANNING – Would the Project: a) Physically divide an established community? b) Cause a significant environmental impact due to conflict with any land use plan, policy, or regulation adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect? LAND USE AND PLANNING SUMMARY a) Would the Project physically divide an established community? The Project would not physically divide an established community. The physical division of an already established community typically refers to construction of a linear feature, such as an interstate, railroad tracks, or the removal of a means of access that would impact mobility within an existing community and an outlying area. The Project would include the construction of a new fish passage structure and community amenities. The Project Site does not contain any residential foundations. The development of the Project’s components would not impair access to any established community or otherwise divide an established community. Therefore, there would be no impact. b) Would the Project cause a significant environmental impact due to conflict with any land use plan, policy, or regulation adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect? The Project would not conflict with any land use plan, policy, or regulation. The Project would demolish the existing fish passage structure, clear out debris, and construct a new fish passage structure, with some elements of community amenities. The land use would remain the same. Therefore, there would be no impact. Sources of Information Contra Costa County. 2005. Contra Costa County General Plan 2005-2020: Chapter 3 Land Use Element. Website: https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/4732/General-Plan. Accessed January 6, 2023. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 83 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 12. MINERAL RESOURCES – Would the Project: a) Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource that would be of value to the region and the residents of the state? b) Result in the loss of availability of a locally- important mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local general plan, specific plan or other land use plan? MINERAL RESOURCES SUMMARY a) Would the Project result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource that would be of value to the region and the residents of the state? There are no mines, mineral plants or geothermal wells located at the Project Site. The Project is not located in an area known to contain minerals that would be of value to the region or residents of the state. Therefore, the Project would not result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource that would be of value to the region; there would be no impact. b) Would the Project result in the loss of availability of a locally-important mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local general plan, specific plan or other land use plan? Though the Contra Costa County General Plan identifies locally important mineral resources throughout the District, none are delineated in any local land use plans for the Project area, including the Contra Costa County General Plan. Therefore, the Project would not result in the loss of availability of a locally important mineral resource recovery site; there would be no impact. Sources of Information Contra Costa County. 2005. Contra Costa County General Plan 2005-2020: Chapter 8 Mineral Resources, Chapter 10 Safety Element. Website: https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/4732/General-Plan. Accessed January 6, 2023. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 84 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 13. NOISE – Would the Project: a) Generation of a substantial temporary or permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the vicinity of the Project in excess of standards established in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of other agencies? b) Generation of excessive groundborne vibration or groundborne noise levels? c) For a Project located within the vicinity of a private airstrip or an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the Project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels? NOISE SUMMARY a) Would the Project result in generation of a substantial temporary or permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the vicinity of the Project in excess of standards established in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of other agencies? Sound is created when vibrating objects produce pressure variations that move rapidly outward into the surrounding air. The more powerful the pressure variations, the louder the sound perceived by a listener. The decibel (dB) is the standard measure of loudness relative to the human threshold of perception. Noise is a sound or series of sounds that are intrusive, objectionable, or disruptive to daily life. Many factors influence how a sound is perceived and whether it is considered disturbing to a listener; these include the physical characteristics of sound and other factors relating to the situation of the listener (e.g., the time of day when it occurs.). A sound-level meter (SLM) is an instrument used to measure the average pressure level of real-world sounds at any moment or over extended time periods. Since human hearing is less sensitive at low frequencies and high frequencies than in the mid-frequency range, the SLM applies human hearing sensitivity factors to each frequency component of the sound being measured before averaging them. This is called “A” weighting, and the average pressure level measured by an SLM in this mode is called the A-weighted sound level (dBA). The Verde Elementary School is adjacent to the western boundary of the Project Site; an existing low- density residential neighborhood is adjacent to the south bank of Wildcat Creek just south of the Project Site; commercial/industrial uses surround the Project Site; and there are existing residential uses along Rumrill Boulevard adjacent to the eastern boundary of the Project Site. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 85 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Just as vibrating objects radiate sound through the air, if they are in contact with the ground, they also radiate mechanical energy through the ground. If such an object is massive enough and/or close enough to an observer, the ground vibrations can be perceptible and, if the vibrations are strong enough, they can cause annoyance to the observer and, if still stronger, damage to buildings. The metric most commonly used to correlate vibration levels with human annoyance and structural damage is the vibration decibel (VdB). There are no policies or standards in the District or either City’s General Plans/Ordinances for avoiding or reducing structural damage or annoyance from construction vibration impacts. However, the Federal Transit Administration (FTA, Transit Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment Manual, 2018) provides methodologies for their evaluation and standards to avoid impacts, specifically a 94 VdB upper limit to prevent structural damage to wood frame structures that are characteristic of most buildings, and an 80 VdB upper limit to avoid significant annoyance to building occupants. Contra Costa County General Plan The following Contra Costa County General Plan 2005-2020 policies are relevant to the Project: • Policy 11-7. Public Projects shall be designed and constructed to minimize long-term noise impacts on existing residents. • Policy 11-8. Construction activities shall be concentrated during the hours of the day that are not noise-sensitive for adjacent land uses and should be commissioned to occur during normal work hours of the day to provide relative quiet during the more sensitive evening and early morning periods. Contra Costa County Code of Ordinances Contra Costa County’s Code of Ordinances does not contain quantitative standards for regulating noise from construction equipment. However, the following Code sections are applicable to the Project: • Section 716-8.1004. Work hours. If operations under the permit are within five hundred feet of residential or commercial occupancies, except as otherwise provided by conditions of approval for the project, grading operations shall be limited to weekdays and to the hours, between seven-thirty a.m. and five-thirty p.m., except that maintenance and service work on equipment may be performed at any time. • Section 716-8.1008. Nuisances. Operations shall be controlled to prevent nuisances to public and private ownerships because of dust, drainage, removal of natural support of land and structures, encroachment, noise, and/or vibration. City of Richmond General Plan The following policy found in the City of Richmond General Plan 2030 is relevant to the Project: • Policy SN4.1. Noise Levels. Work with regulatory agencies to monitor and enforce noise standards in the community. Reduce or mitigate objectionable noise sources and require new Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 86 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) noise sources to comply with noise standards. Regulate both indoor and outdoor noise levels to protect health and safety. Use a combination of noise standards and existing noise levels to determine impacts and mitigation measures. City of San Pablo General Plan The following policies found in the City of San Pablo General Plan 2030 are relevant to the Project: • Policy SN-I-41. Work with Caltrans, AC transit and railroad operators to mitigate transportation-related noise impacts on residential areas and sensitive uses. Additionally, continue to limit hours for construction and demolition work to reduce construction-related noises. City of San Pablo Municipal Code The City of San Pablo Municipal Code prohibits all construction operations between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. unless there is an emergency. The Project Site and vicinity were surveyed on a recent midweek school day (Thursday, December 14, 2023) to observe the influential on- and near-site noise sources and to measure noise levels at local noise-sensitive receptors with an Extech SDL600, Type II, ANSI-certified meter. Observations during the survey and the noise data collected are summarized in TABLE 2 - 6. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 87 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) TABLE 2 - 6: MEASUREMENT DATA AND SURVEY OBSERVATIONS Measurement Location/Time Lmin L90 Leq L10 Lmax Observations during Measurement Period Location #1 Verde Elementary School East Fence Line 1:22 pm – 1:32 pm 12/14/23 50.1 52.3 67.9 68.2 85.9 No play activity in the school’s eastern outdoor areas just west of the measurement location (low 50s dBA average). Two train pass-bys lasting a total of several minutes (high 60s dBA average, 80s dBA peak from horn). Location #2 Residential facing Giaramita Street 1:55 pm – 2:05 pm 12/14/23 45.2 47.8 60.8 61.5 81.0 Low traffic activity on Giaramita Street (vehicle pass-by peaks low 60s dBA). One train pass-by lasting a few minutes (low 60s dBA average, 80s dBA peak from horn). Location #3 Residential near east end of Project corridor and Rumrill Boulevard 2:22 pm – 2:32 pm 12/14/23 48.2 53.9 62.1 65.6 69.4 High traffic activity on Rumrill Boulevard (vehicle pass-by peaks high 60s dBA). Traffic noise is the predominant influence for receptors facing Rumrill Boulevard. The decibel (dB) is the standard measure of a sound’s loudness relative to the human threshold of perception. Decibels are said to be A–weighted (dBA) when corrections are made to a sound’s frequency components during a measurement to reflect the known, varying sensitivity of the human ear to different frequencies. The Equivalent Sound Level (Leq) is a constant sound level that carries the same sound energy as the actual time–varying sound over the measurement period. Statistical Sound Levels – Lmin, L90, L10 and Lmax – are the minimum sound level, the sound level exceeded 90% of the time, the sound level exceeded 10% of the time and the maximum sound level, respectively; all as recorded during the 10-minute measurement periods. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 88 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) For most of the time when the SLM was recording either on the Verde school site or in the residential neighborhood to the south, measured noise levels were relatively low (i.e., high 40s -low 50s dBA) because no high-traffic roadways cross or closely approach either the school site or the residential neighborhood measurement location, and because there was no outdoor activity in the play areas near the school measurement location at the eastern school property line. There was play activity in the outdoor areas west of the school buildings, but with negligible noise effect on the measurement due to distance from the SLM and the attenuation provided by the school buildings. The most considerable noise influence came from train activity on the two railroad lines that pass closely east of the Project. There were three train pass-bys during both measurements, each pass being a few minutes long during which the average noise levels rose into the low to mid-60s dBA with momentary peak levels in the mid-80s dBA as the trains sounded horns as they approached the railroad crossings at Market Avenue. At the other measurement location near existing residential along Rumrill Boulevard, the dominant noise influence (i.e., low 60s dBA) was the relatively high motor vehicle traffic volume on that roadway. From Off-Road Construction Equipment Project construction would temporarily increase ambient noise levels on the Project Site and in its nearby vicinity. Each project construction phase would have its characteristic equipment mix and duration of use (as specified in the Project Description) and its locus of work activity would vary on the Project Site and in relation to the noise-sensitive uses that surround it over the course of a workday over each phase. Equipment noise levels by Project phase were modeled using the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHWA) Roadway Construction Noise Model (RCNM) assuming the 2-3 dominant equipment types per phase were operating simultaneously in close proximity to each other at the chosen distances from a receptor, as shown TABLE 2 - 7. In actuality, the operation of such equipment would not be constant throughout the workday, so the data are highest possible workday average noise level affecting a receptor at the specified distance if all equipment operated continuously there during the day. Given that the District and City General Plans/Ordinances have not set maximum quantitative standards at noise-sensitive receptors near construction sites, a reasonable choice for a standard for this CEQA analysis would be a daytime noise level that is clearly above local weekday average weekday levels, and which could demonstrably interfere with normal outdoor activities of the school and residences. Noise measurements at the school and southern residential area show that noise levels most of the time (on a weekday early afternoon) were in the low to mid-50s dBA, except during train passes when the average noise levels went up to the mid-60’s dBA with brief peaks from horn blasts exceeding 80 dBA (a likely common daily occurrence given that three such train pass-bys occurred during an hour of the site survey). Noise from train operations are commonly regarded as disruptive, which would argue for regarding frequent noise intrusions in the mid-60s and above from project construction as a substantial additional burden on school and residential tranquility. Such a choice would be supported by the EPA’s Protective Noise Levels, which found that speech intelligibility in outdoor environments begins to decline rapidly when background noise levels begin to exceed 65 dBA. Conversely, intrusive Project noise would have no substantial effects in areas where existing average levels are commonly Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 89 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) higher than the intrusive levels. Thus, project construction phases that take place on portions of the site that are sufficiently distant from local sensitive receptors would have no substantial noise impacts. Based on the survey noise measurements, this would occur when work areas are 500 feet or more from the Verde School or any local residences. TABLE 2 - 7: MODELED NOISE LEVELS DURING PROJECT CONSTRUCTION PHASES Project Phase /Duration Dominant Equipment Modeled Noise Level at x feet from work activity locus (dBA) 50 feet 100 feet 200 feet 400 feet 800 feet Site Preparation/ 1 week Dozer Scraper (2) 83.8 77.8 71.8 65.8 59.7* Sediment Basin Clearing/ 2 weeks Excavator Front Loader Truck 79.9 73.9 67.8 61.8 55.8* Fish Passage** Structure/ 6 weeks Excavator Jackhammer 83.1** 77.0** 71.0** 65.0** 59.0* Sediment Basin/ 6 weeks Dozer Front Loader Truck 80.4 74.4 68.3 62.3 56.3* Upstream** Channel Modifications/ 2 weeks Excavator Front Loader Truck 79.9** 73.9** 67.8** 61.8 55.8* Community Amenities/ 4 weeks Dozer Backhoe Truck 80.0 73.9 67.9 61.9 55.9* Site Clean- Up/Revegetation/ 2 weeks Grader 81.0 75.0 69.0 63.0 56.9* *For all project construction phases, at a distance of 800 feet from the equipment work locus modeled construction noise levels would be below the measured average local background levels. **For the Project Fish Passage and Channel Modifications phases, the main work sites are 400 feet or more from the nearest sensitive receptors; modeled sound levels at closer distances would be above the average measured local background levels, but there are no sensitive receptors there to be affected. Considering that the entire duration of project construction is about 6 months and that the purpose of the Project is improved natural habitat for local fish population and improved recreational facilities for local residents, in most cases the proposed mitigations would reduce outdoor noise levels in facing areas of the adjacent school and residential neighborhoods. But in cases where work is necessary in areas close to the school and homes, and with sufficient notice by the Project contractor, short-term voluntary shifts by residents and students/faculty/staff to less-affected outdoor or indoor spaces could Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 90 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) be accommodated without substantial inconvenience to allow normal community activity to continue until the more intensive project construction stages are complete. The Project would follow the most conservative hours set forth by local municipal governments, which would be Contra Costa County’s working hours for construction activities from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday for grading activities within 500-ft of sensitive receptors, and elsewhere onsite weekday hours of seven a.m. to six p.m. consistent with the Contra Costa County and City of San Pablo General Plans and Codes. If allowable work (i.e. non-grading) is necessary outside of these hours, the City and County shall both approve the extended work hours, and the Resident Engineer will be available to address any noise concerns during construction. Mitigation Measure NOISE-1a would be implemented to limit construction noise emissions and work activity and Mitigation Measure NOISE-1b and Avoidance and Minimization Measure AQ-1 would be implemented to reduce exposure of noise to sensitive receptors. Therefore, the impact would be less- than-significant with mitigation incorporated. From On-Road Trucks Hauling Debris, Fill, and Concrete to/from the Project Site During project construction, a considerable number of truck operations would occur, specifically: • Sediment Removal from the existing Sediment Basin, Sediment Basin Expansion, and Site Cleanup construction phases would require about 76 daily truck trips hauling debris from the Project Site to landfill averaged over 125 working days. • Fish Passage, Sediment Basin and Channel Modification phases would require about 13 daily truck trips hauling fill from external sources to the Project Site averaged over 35 working days. • Fish Passage, Channel Structure and Community Amenities phases would require about 10 daily truck trips hauling concrete to the Project Site averaged over 35 working days. Such trucks’ frequent close passage of the Verde Elementary School and through the existing residential neighborhood to the south of Wildcat Creek and the Project Site would be a source of frequent nuisance and disruption from the noise they emit. But with the implementation of Mitigation Measure NOISE-2 below, this impact would be less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. Impact NOISE-1: The Project could temporarily or periodically increase ambient noise levels during construction, negatively impacting nearby sensitive receptors. Mitigation Measure NOISE-1a: Limit Construction Noise Emissions/Intrusions The Project shall implement the following BMPs: • Require all construction equipment to conform to Section 14-8.02 Noise Control of the latest Caltrans Standard Specifications. This requires all internal combustion engine driven equipment to be equipped with intake and exhaust mufflers that are in good condition and Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 91 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) appropriate for the equipment, and provide shrouding or shielding for impact tools (i.e., jackhammers). Utilize ‘quiet’ air compressors and other ‘quiet’ equipment where such technology exists. • Provide sound-control devices on equipment no less effective than those provided by the manufacturer. • Locate stationary equipment, material stockpiles, and vehicle staging areas as far as practicable from sensitive receptors. • Require applicable construction-related vehicles and equipment to use designated truck routes when entering/leaving the site. • Designate a County representative to serve as a noise (and vibration) disturbance coordinator who shall be responsible for responding to complaints about noise (and vibration) during construction. The telephone number of the noise disturbance coordinator shall be conspicuously posted at the construction site. Provide notification to the adjacent noise- sensitive receptors (residences and Verde Elementary), including the anticipated construction schedule and contact number for the designated noise disturbance coordinator who can address noise complaints. • Limit project construction activity to the weekday hours of 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. consistent with the Contra Costa County and City of San Pablo General Plans and Codes. If work is necessary outside of these hours, the City and County shall both approve the extended work hours, and the Resident Engineer shall be available to address any noise concerns during construction. Mitigation Measure NOISE-1b: Inform Local School Authorities and Residents of Likely High Noise Periods during Project Construction • When project construction work lasting more than a week is necessary in areas of the Project Site close to (i.e., within 200 feet of) the Verde Elementary School and existing homes facing the site south of Wildcat Creek, the Project contractor shall provide a minimum of 3-days’ notice to school and residents and advise them on short-term shifts to less-affected outdoor play/recreation spaces or to other indoor rooms less exposed to the direct noise from the construction activity until the more noise-intensive project construction stages are complete. Impact NOISE-2: Truck travel for the project would be a source of frequent nuisance and disruption from the noise they emit to sensitive receptors. Mitigation Measure NOISE-2: Minimize Project haul truck access to the site from low-volume roads near sensitive receptors. Haul trucks (i.e., trucks transporting debris, fill, and other materials on and off-site) shall access the site from the north via Rumrill Boulevard and Brookside Drive, which pass through largely commercial/industrial areas. Haul trucks shall not access the site through the southern access route of Giaramita Street and the Wildcat Creek Trail, which pass sensitive receptors, except for emergency access. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 92 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) b) Would the Project result in generation of excessive groundborne vibration or groundborne noise levels? The most vibration-intensive piece of construction equipment is a pile driver, but no pile driving would be required for the Project. Other types of construction equipment are far less vibration- intensive. Next in intensity are heavily loaded trucks or large tracked earth-moving equipment, which could pose a damage or annoyance threat if they regularly and often come close to vibration-sensitive receptors during construction. The existing school west of the Project Site and the existing residential uses south of the Project Site would be potential targets for vibration damage and occupant annoyance from heavy construction equipment movements. But Project construction would not require substantial heavy equipment operating for long periods close to the school or residential areas. Dozers would likely be the most vibration-intensive equipment types required for the site preparation, sediment basin and cleanup phases. In TABLE 2 - 8, FTA vibration screening methodology has been applied to the most vibration-intensive construction equipment likely to be regularly used on the Project Site. Vibration levels during work on Project Site areas closest to the sensitive receptors (about 50-100 feet distant) would be far below the range where there would be any potential for on-going substantial annoyance (80 VdB) or structural damage (94 VdB) project construction activity. TABLE 2 - 8: MODELED CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT VIBRATION LEVELS Modeled vibration level at x feet from work activity locus (VdB) Equipment Type 25 feet 100 feet 200 feet 300 feet Bulldozer 87 69 60 55 Loaded Heavy Truck 86 68 59 54 Source: Federal Transit Administration (FTA), Transit Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment (2018). Thus, the Project would not result in the generation of excessive groundborne vibration, and the impact would be less-than-significant. c) For a Project located within the vicinity of a private airstrip or an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the Project expose people residing or working in the Project area to excessive noise levels? The Project Site is not within two miles of a public airport or public use airport. The closest public airports are Gnoss Field Airport, located approximately 16.5 miles northwest of the Project Site, and Buchanan Field Airport, located approximately 16.5 miles east of the Project Site. Oakland International Airport is located approximately 18.5 miles southeast of the Project Site.The Project is about 18.5 miles north of Oakland International Airport and is not under any of its main approach/departure routes. Since the Project would not locate new noise-sensitive uses (e.g., residential, commercial, retail) near any local airports, the Project would not expose people residing or working in the Project area to excessive noise levels. Therefore, there would be no impact. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 93 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Sources of Information Contra Costa County. 2005. Contra Costa County General Plan 2005-2020. Contra Costa County Community Development Department. Martinez, CA. Website: https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/4732/General-Plan Contra Costa County. 2023. Contra Costa County Code of Ordinances. Website: https://library.municode.com/ca/contra_costa_county/codes/ordinance_code?nodeId=COCOC OCO City of Richmond. 2012. City of Richmond General Plan 2030. Website: https://www.ci.richmond.ca.us/2608/General-Plan-2030 City of San Pablo. 2022. City of San Pablo Municipal Code. Website: https://www.codepublishing.com/CA/SanPablo/ United States Environmental Protection Agency. 1978. Protective Noise Levels. Website: https://nepis.epa.gov/Exe/ZyNET.exe/20012HG5.txt?ZyActionD=ZyDocument&Client=EPA &Index=1976%20Thru%201980&Docs=&Query=&Time=&EndTime=&SearchMethod=1& TocRestrict=n&Toc=&TocEntry=&QField=&QFieldYear=&QFieldMonth=&QFieldDay=& UseQField=&IntQFieldOp=0&ExtQFieldOp=0&XmlQuery=&File=D%3A%5CZYFILES%5 CINDEX%20DATA%5C76THRU80%5CTXT%5C00000008%5C20012HG5.txt&User=AN ONYMOUS&Password=anonymous&SortMethod=h%7C- &MaximumDocuments=1&FuzzyDegree=0&ImageQuality=r75g8/r75g8/x150y150g16/i425 &Display=hpfr&DefSeekPage=x&SearchBack=ZyActionL&Back=ZyActionS&BackDesc=R esults%20page&MaximumPages=1&ZyEntry=1 Federal Highway Administration. 2006. Roadway Construction Noise Model User’s Guide. Website: https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/noise/construction_noise/rcnm/rcnm.pdf Federal Transit Administration. 2018. Source: Transit Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment. Website: https://www.transit.dot.gov/sites/fta.dot.gov/files/docs/research- innovation/118131/transit-noise-and-vibration-impact-assessment-manual-fta-report-no- 0123_0.pdf Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 94 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 14. POPULATION AND HOUSING – Would the Project: a) Induce substantial unplanned population growth in an area, either directly (e.g., by proposing new homes and businesses) or indirectly (e.g., through extension of roads or other infrastructure)? b) Displace substantial numbers of existing people or housing, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? POPULATION AND HOUSING SUMMARY a) Would the Project induce substantial unplanned population growth in an area, either directly (e.g., by proposing new homes and businesses) or indirectly (e.g., through extension of roads or other infrastructure)? The Project would not induce substantial unplanned population growth because it does not propose changes to land uses that would result in new residences or businesses, nor would it extend roads or other infrastructure. During the 125 day construction period, it is estimated that a team of 10, and up to 15 construction workers would be employed. Due to the short construction period, no additional regional accommodations would be needed. Therefore, the Project would have no impact. b) Would the Project displace substantial numbers of existing people or housing, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? The Project would not displace anyone or any housing. The Project would restore and enhance natural habitats in an area with no residences and would not displace existing people or housing. Residences south of the Project would be affected and would not be displaced due to the Project. Therefore, no housing would need to be constructed due to displacement of existing housing, and there would be no impact. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 95 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 15. PUBLIC SERVICES – Would the Project result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times or other performance objectives for any of the public services: a) Fire Protection? b) Police Protection? c) Schools? d) Parks? e) Other public facilities? PUBLIC SERVICES SUMMARY Would the Project result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times or other performance objectives for any of the public services: a) Fire Protection? Fire protection and general rescue services in the unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County are provided by the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District (CCCFPD). In total, CCCFPD operates 23 fire stations, serving a population of 600,000 people across a 304 square-mile area. In particular, the industrial businesses in the Project vicinity are served by CCCFPD. In the event of a fire emergency, Fire Station 62 in Richmond, CA would respond. The Project would not impact response times for fire protection. Because construction activities would be short-term and temporary and would involve a workforce of approximately 10 to 15 construction workers on any given day, these workers would either already live in nearby communities or would not relocate to the nearby communities for the construction work. Therefore, project construction would not significantly increase demand for fire protection services throughout the Project vicinity due to population growth and would not change any uses on the site. For these reasons, the Project would not be expected to substantially affect CCCFPD’s ability to maintain service ratios, response times, other performance objectives, such that new or physically altered facilities would be required. For these reasons, the Project’s impact with respect to the provision of fire service would be less-than- significant. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 96 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) b) Police Protection? The Project Site is served by the Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff. The nearest County Sheriff’s office is 62 Station at 1065 7th Street in the City of Richmond, approximately 0.92 miles south of the Project Site, which serves the Project area. The Project would not impact response times for police protection. For the reasons provided in response to question a), above, the Project would not be expected to substantially affect the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office’s ability to maintain service ratios, response times, other performance objectives, such that new or physically altered facilities would be required. For these reasons, the Project’s impact with respect to the provision of police protection facilities would be less-than- significant. c) Schools? The Project would not impact service ratios for schools. The Project would result in a small temporary increase in construction worker employees in the Project area. The construction workers would most likely be from nearby communities and would not require new or modification of existing school facilities. There would be no impact to schools. d) Parks? The Project would not impact service ratios for parks. The nearest park or recreational area is North Richmond Ballpark, located approximately 1,120 feet west of the Project Site. For the reasons described in response to question a), above, the Project would not result in increased population such that there would be additional demand for parks facilities during or after construction. Additionally, the Project would increase the available public access on site through the community amenity components of the Project. Impacts related to the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities from the construction of the community amenities are addressed throughout this document, particularly in Section 4 Biological Resources, Section 5 Cultural Resources, Section 7 Geology/Soils, and Section 10 Hydrology/Water Quality. Impacts related to increasing public access are addressed in other sections of this document, particularly in Section 16, Recreation. Therefore, the Project would have no impact related to the need for new or physically altered parks and recreational facilities. e) Other public facilities? Libraries: The Project would result in a small temporary increase in construction worker employees in the Project area. The construction workers would most likely be from nearby communities and would not require new libraries. There would be no impact to libraries. Health Facilities: The Project would result in a small temporary increase in construction worker employees in the Project area. The construction workers would most likely be from nearby communities and would not require new or modification of health facilities. There would be no impact to health facilities. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 97 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Flood Management: As a flood management Project, the Project would require the provision of new or altered physical facilities. However, this is a direct impact of the Project and not an incidental indirect impact stemming from the implementation of the Project. Impacts related to the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities from the construction of the fish passage structure and sediment basin are addressed throughout this document, particularly in Section 4 Biological Resources, Section 5 Cultural Resources, Section 7 Geology/Soils, and Section 10 Hydrology/Water Quality. The Project would have less-than-significant impact on flood management facilities. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 98 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 16. RECREATION – Would the Project: a) Increase the use of existing neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities such that substantial physical deterioration of the facility would occur or be accelerated? b) Include recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities, which might have an adverse physical effect on the environment? RECREATION SUMMARY a) Would the Project increase the use of existing neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities such that substantial physical deterioration of the facility would occur or be accelerated? The Project would not result in the increase of use of existing neighborhood parks or other recreational facilities. The neighborhood parks located closest to the Project area are North Richmond Ballpark and John Herbert Davis Park, located 1,340 feet west and 1,800 feet east, respectively. The existing conditions of the Project are not recreational in nature, and the Project is not residential, so the Project would not bring additional toll on the existing neighborhood parks during and after project construction. In addition to this, the Project includes components that will increase the amount of recreational use in and near the Project Site. These components include a mini park that would include an artificial turf play area with mounds, tree stump seating, and wood platform benches at varying heights, as well as a fish passage overlook section that would include a wildlife play sculpture, seat walls, tree stump seating, and educational signage. Therefore, there would be no impact. b) Does the Project include recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities, which might have an adverse physical effect on the environment? As discussed elsewhere in other sections of this document, the Project includes recreational facilities, some of which may have impacts on the environment. The specific types of impacts, and mitigation measures identified to minimize or avoid significant impacts, are discussed in the other resource sections of this document corresponding to the affected topic area (e.g., Section 2.2.2, Air Quality; Section 2.2.4, Biological Resources; Section 2.2.13, Noise; and Section 2.2.17, Transportation). Refer to those sections for specific discussions of potential physical adverse effects on the environment and their respective resource-specific mitigations. Therefore, the impact would be less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 99 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 17. TRANSPORTATION – Would the Project: a) Conflict with a program, plan, ordinance or policy addressing the circulation system, including transit, roadway, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities? b) Conflict or be inconsistent with CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.3(b)? c) Substantially increase hazards due to a geometric design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)? d) Result in inadequate emergency access? TRANSPORTATION SUMMARY a) Would the Project conflict with a program, plan, ordinance or policy addressing the circulation system, including transit, roadway, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities? The Contra Costa County Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan (CBPP) applies to the Project. The CBPP identifies pedestrian priority areas where more people are expected to walk and where safety issues are most acute, defines the Countywide Bikeway Network, and outlines best practices for developing pedestrian and bicycle facilities (Contra Costa Transportation Authority 2018). The Project is located within a pedestrian priority area, as it is located within ¼ mile of Verde Elementary School. By preserving and improving the Wildcat Creek trail through this area, the Project would not conflict with the CBPP. The majority of the Project will take place in the flood control channel, which is not open to cars owned by the public. Construction activities that would generate off-site traffic to local roads would include the delivery of construction vehicles and equipment to the Project Site, the daily arrival and departure of construction workers, and the delivery of materials throughout the construction period. Construction equipment would be delivered to and removed from the Project Site in phases for the different construction activities. Over the course of the Project’s 125 working days, the maximum daily truck trips would be approximately 125 trips per day, including 30 worker trips and 95 maximum daily truck trips for the Project. Construction-generated traffic would be temporary, and therefore, would not result in any long-term degradation in operating conditions on any locally used roadways for the Project. The impact of construction-related traffic would be temporary and result in intermittent reduction of the capacities of streets in the Project area because of the slower movements and larger turning radii of construction trucks compared to passenger vehicles. Drivers could experience delays if they were traveling behind a heavy truck. Project construction-related traffic would not be substantial in relation to traffic flow conditions on local access roadways. The Project trips would fall within the daily fluctuations of Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 100 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) traffic volumes of the local-serving roadways serving the construction site. Therefore, the impact on traffic flow would be less-than-significant. All of the existing Wildcat Creek Trail along the sediment basin will be closed during the construction activities, and the path will be demolished and realigned slightly further to the north. The Wildcat Creek trail is a paved trail that runs from the Wildcat Marsh Staging area east 1.2 miles to the eastern end of our Project Site, terminating at the UPRR railroad tracks. The Wildcat Creek trail is considered a stub of the Bay Trail as it runs along the Richmond Parkway. It is a multi-use hiking and bicycle trail that is managed and maintained by the EBRPD, who will be advised of the Project, and will be advised of path closures. Pedestrians and bike riders using the recreational trail for alternative transportation will be temporarily affected by the Project; however, alternate street routes are available around the affected portion of the trail. Once constructed, the Project’s recreational components are expected to attract residents and students of Verde Elementary School nearby. Visitors would likely be local, and it would not significantly increase the amount of travel in the area. In addition to visitors, existing maintenance inspections and periodic maintenance of the channel and sediment basin would continue as necessary and would likely be less frequent under new Project conditions. This would require some travel by maintenance workers, but it would be the same if not less than current existing conditions. Based on the discussion above, Project would not conflict with any adopted policies, plans, or programs related to public transit or bicycle and pedestrian facilities, nor would it affect the safety of such services/facilities due to the Project construction’s temporary and low-level nature. Therefore, the impact would be less-than-significant. b) Would the Project conflict or be inconsistent with CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.3(b)? The Project would not conflict or be inconsistent with CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.3(b), which is required to establish criteria for determining the significance of transportation impacts. The Contra Costa County Transportation Analysis Guidelines provide the technical guidance and criteria required for assessing of VMT, determining thresholds of significance, and outlining mitigation measures for land development and transportation Projects. The guidelines state that the following types of Projects should be expected to cause a less-than-significant impact under CEQA and would not require further VMT analysis: 1. Projects that: a. Generate or attract fewer than 110 daily vehicle trips; or b. Projects of 10,000 square feet or less of non-residential space or 20 residential units or less, or otherwise generating less than 836 VMT per day. 2. Residential, retail, office Projects, or mixed-use Projects proposed within ½ mile of an existing major transit stop or an existing stop along a high-quality transit corridor. 3. Residential Projects (home-based VMT) at 15% or below the baseline County-wide home- based average VMT per capita, or employment Projects (employee VMT) at 15% or below the baseline Bay Area average commute VMT per employee in areas with low VMT that incorporate similar VMT reducing features (i.e., density, mix of uses, transit accessibility). Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 101 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) 4. Public facilities (e.g. emergency services, passive parks (low-intensity recreation, open space), libraries, community centers, public utilities) and government buildings. As discussed in Section 3. Air Quality of this document, the Project would generate less than 110 daily vehicle trips during construction, and the number of vehicle trips for any maintenance trips would be equal to or less frequent than what is currently needed for the Project Site. Therefore, the Project would be consistent and not conflict with CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.3(b) under the transportation analysis guidelines set by Contra Costa County by being exempt from further VMT analysis. Therefore, the impact would be less-than-significant. c) Would the Project substantially increase hazards due to a geometric design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)? The Project would not substantially increase hazards due to a geometric design or incompatible uses. The Project does not include any roadway construction; therefore, there would be no increased hazards due to geometric design features. The land uses adjacent to and included in the Project Site are light industrial and residential. The nearest residences are located 550 feet southwest of the Project Site. As such, the temporary introduction of construction equipment required to construct the Project on roadways in and around the Project Site would be compatible with existing uses and would not pose a safety hazard. Furthermore, the Project does not propose to make any changes to public roadways. Therefore, there would be no impact. d) Would the Project result in inadequate emergency access? The Project would not block any access roads or include increased construction vehicle access such that the Project would result in a reduction in emergency access. project construction would allow adequate access to the Project Site in the event of an emergency. Therefore, the Project would not result in inadequate emergency access. As described under Transportation impact discussion a), increased Project-related operational traffic would not cause a significant increase in congestion and would not significantly affect roadway operations. Furthermore, the Project would not require closures of public roads, which could inhibit access by emergency vehicles. During construction of the Project, heavy construction-related vehicles could interfere with emergency response to the site or emergency evacuation procedures in the event of an emergency (e.g., slowing vehicles traveling behind the truck). However, given that there are no businesses or emergency response stations and only a limited number of residences in the immediate vicinity of the Project Site, it is not likely that heavy construction-related traffic would result in inadequate emergency access. Therefore, the impact would be less-than-significant. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 102 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Sources of Information Contra Costa County. 2005. Contra Costa County General Plan 2005-2020: Chapter 5 Transportation and Circulation Element. Website: https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/4732/General-Plan. Accessed January 6, 2023. Contra Costa Transportation Authority. 2018. Contra Costa Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan. Website: https://ccta.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/5b8ec26192756.pdf. Accessed January 31, 2023. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 103 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 18. TRIBAL CULTURAL RESOURCES – Would the Project cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a tribal cultural resource, defined in Public Resources Code section 21074 as either a site, feature, place, cultural landscape that is geographically defined in terms of the size and scope of the landscape, sacred place, or object with cultural value to a California Native American tribe, and that is: a) Listed or eligible for listing in the California Register of Historical Resources, or in a local register of historical resources as defined in Public Resources Code section 5020.1(k)? b) A resource determined by the lead agency, in its discretion and supported by substantial evidence, to be significant pursuant to criteria set forth in subdivision (c) of Public Resources Code Section 5024.1? TRIBAL CULTURAL RESOURCES SUMMARY Would the Project cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a tribal cultural resource, defined in Public Resources Code section 21074 as either a site, feature, place, cultural landscape that is geographically defined in terms of the size and scope of the landscape, sacred place, or object with cultural value to a California Native American tribe, and that is: a) Listed or eligible for listing in the California Register of Historical Resources, or in a local register of historical resources as defined in Public Resources Code section 5020.1(k)? As discussed in Section IV, no listed or eligible resources or on the District’s local register of historical resources are present in the Project Site. However, the presence of sub-surface resources could not be ruled out. Inadvertent discovery of tribal cultural resources could result in a significant impact. Implementation of Mitigation Measure CUL-1, CUL-2, and CUL-3, included in Section V. Cultural Resources, would reduce potentially significant impacts to less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. b) A resource determined by the lead agency, in its discretion and supported by substantial evidence, to be significant pursuant to criteria set forth in subdivision (c) of Public Resources Code Section 5024.1? Tribal cultural resources are: 1) sites, features, places, cultural landscapes, sacred places, and objects with cultural value to a California Native American tribe that are listed, or determined to be eligible for listing in the California Register, or local register of historical resources, as defined in PRC Section 5020.1(k); or, 2) a resource determined by the lead CEQA agency, in its discretion and supported by substantial evidence, to be significant pursuant to criteria set forth in PRC Section 5024.1(c). For a cultural landscape to be considered a tribal cultural resource, it must be geographically defined in Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 104 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) terms of the size and scope of the landscape (PRC Section 21074[b]). Also, a historical resource, as defined in PRC Section 21084.1, unique archaeological resource, as defined in PRC Section 21083.2(g), or non-unique archaeological resource, as defined in PRC Section 21083.2(h), may also be a tribal cultural resource. AB 52 formally added the category of “tribal cultural resources” to CEQA and extends the consultation and confidentiality requirements to all Projects, rather than just Projects subject to SB 18. The Confederated Villages of Lisjan Nation (CVLN) and the Wilton Rancheria Tribe have submitted a general request letter to be notified of projects within Contra Costa County under AB52. On November 10, 2022, an offer to consult was sent to the AB52 contact designated in the general request letters. The record of correspondence (all via email) and meeting dates is described below. On November 14, 2022, Confederated Villages of Lisjan Nation requested records search results and cultural resources information. A series of seven consultation meetings occurred between the District and CVLN. At these meetings, the methods for subsurface investigation, likelihood of buried resources, results of investigations and avoidance, mitigation, and monitoring measures. were discussed. Based on the results, CVLN recommended that archaeological and tribal monitoring take place during excavation at depths below the depths that the ground penetrating radar could reach, and made additional recommendations for Mitigation Measures. On February 14, 2024, the District emailed CVLN revised Mitigation Measures. A final consultation meeting occurred February 28, 2024, during which the mitigation measures were agreed upon. The Mitigation Measures agreed upon are as written in Section V.b. Therefore, implementation of Mitigation Measure CUL-1, CUL-2, and CUL-3 would reduce impacts to less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 105 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 19. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS – Would the Project: a) Require or result in the relocation or construction of new or expanded water, wastewater treatment, or storm water drainage, electric power, natural gas, or telecommunication facilities, the construction or relocation of which could cause significant environmental effects? b) Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the Project and reasonably foreseeable future development during normal, dry, and multiple dry years? c) Result in a determination by the wastewater treatment provider, which serves or may serve the Project that it has adequate capacity to serve the Project’s Projected demand in addition to the provider’s existing commitments? d) Generate solid waste in excess of State or local standards, or in excess of the capacity of local infrastructure, or otherwise impair the attainment of solid waste reduction goals? e) Comply with federal, state, and local management and reduction statutes and regulations related to solid waste? UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS SUMMARY a) Would the Project require or result in the relocation or construction of new or expanded water, wastewater treatment, or storm water drainage, electric power, natural gas, or telecommunication facilities, the construction or relocation of which could cause significant environmental effects? The Project would require the relocation of a PG&E utility pole. The utility pole is located within the footprint of the expanded sediment basin and will need to be shifted north by approximately 50 feet. There would be no change in sizing from this relocation and the new location would still be within the disturbed ground of the District corporation yard. All other existing utilities are beneath the maximum excavation depths of the Project and would not be disturbed by Project activities. All utilities would be appropriately marked in the field and their owners notified before construction begins; for these other utilities, no relocation is necessary. The Project’s recreational components would include some lighting in the form of 2-to-4-foot-tall trailside fixtures for providing evening/nighttime lighting of the trail. This lighting would require a small amount of electricity power. New underground electricity lines would need to be added to tie into existing electricity service. These utility lines will be at the standard depth for low-voltage wiring (minimum of 6 inches) and will likely require some trenching or trenchless drilling that will follow Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 106 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) along the Wildcat Creek Trail alignment. The utility locations will be marked in the field. Therefore, the impact would be less-than-significant. b) Would the Project have sufficient water supplies available to serve the Project and reasonably foreseeable future development during normal, dry, and multiple dry years? The Project will not require water service, and water trucks from off-site water sources would provide any water needed during construction activities, including dust control. The Project would retrofit the existing fish ladder and sediment basin, and would include some recreational components. No Project components would require water supplies during operational use. Therefore, the impact would be less-than-significant. c) Would the Project result in a determination by the wastewater treatment provider, which serves or may serve the Project that it has adequate capacity to serve the Project’s Projected demand in addition to the provider’s existing commitments? The Project components would not result in wastewater that would need to be treated. Therefore, there would be no impact. d) Would the Project generate solid waste in excess of State or local standards, or in excess of the capacity of local infrastructure, or otherwise impair the attainment of solid waste reduction goals? The Project would generate approximately 8,637 tons of offhaul material that would need to be disposed of or reused. Sediment and vegetative matter will be removed during excavation, which may be either temporarily stockpiled on site, transferred to another user, or disposed of at an appropriate waste facility. The District has active solid waste facilities with capacity to accommodate any construction waste that may be generated (CalRecycle 2019). In addition, Project contract specifications will require that the Contractor dispose of solid waste, including sediment, in accordance with all federal, state and local regulations. Therefore, the impact would be less-than- significant. e) Would the Project comply with federal, state, and local management and reduction statutes and regulations related to solid waste? As stated above, the Project would generate offhaul material that would be disposed of at County solid waste facilities. The Project would comply with all federal, state, and local management and reduction statutes and regulations related to solid waste. Therefore, there would be no impact. Sources of Information California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle 2019). 2019. Walnut Website: https://www2.calrecycle.ca.gov/SolidWaste/Site/Search. Accessed January 12, 2023. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 107 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 20. WILDFIRE – If located in or near state responsibility areas or lands classified as very high fire hazard severity zones, would the Project: a) Substantially impair an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan? b) Due to slope, prevailing winds, and other factors, exacerbate wildfire risks, and thereby, expose Project occupants to pollutant concentrations from a wildfire or the uncontrolled spread of a wildfire? c) Require the installation or maintenance of associated infrastructure (such as roads, fuel breaks, emergency water sources, power lines or other utilities) that may exacerbate fire risk or that may result in temporary or ongoing impacts to the environment? d) Expose people or structures to significant risks, including downslope or downstream flooding or landslides, as a result of runoff, post-fire slope instability, or drainage changes? WILDFIRE SUMMARY If located in or near state responsibility areas or lands classified as very high fire hazard severity zones, would the Project: a) Substantially impair an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan? The Project will not change the nature of the Project Site. Emergency vehicles will have access at all times during construction. Therefore, Project will have no impact. b) Due to slope, prevailing winds, and other factors, exacerbate wildfire risks, and thereby, expose Project occupants to pollutant concentrations from a wildfire or the uncontrolled spread of a wildfire? The Project Site is mostly flat and is surrounded by light industrial and residential areas on relatively flat areas, and the surrounding area lacks woodlands or vegetation that could provide fuel load for wildfire, or steep slopes that could cause fire to spread more rapidly. The Project would not exacerbate wildfire risk. According to CAL FIRE, the Project Site is not located in a State Responsibility Area (SRA) or a Local Responsibility Area (LRA) Fire Hazard Severity Zone. The nearest Fire Hazard Severity Zone is located approximately two miles southeast of the Project Site (Wildcat Canyon Regional Park) and is designated as a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. Given that the Project Site is not located on or Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 108 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) near steep terrain surrounded by natural vegetation, is mostly surrounded by light industrial and residential uses, and does not consistently experience high winds, the Project Site would not be prone to wildfires. The Project will not change the nature of the Project Site. No improvements are proposed that would exacerbate a wildfire risk. Construction activities may result in unanticipated fires; however, the Project construction contractor will have a fire safety plan and will be equipped appropriately. Therefore, the impact would be less-than-significant. c) Require the installation or maintenance of associated infrastructure (such as roads, fuel breaks, emergency water sources, power lines or other utilities) that may exacerbate fire risk or that may result in temporary or ongoing impacts to the environment? The Project will not change the nature of the Project Site. Construction activities, including utility relocations, may result in unanticipated fires. However, the Project construction contractor will have a fire safety plan and will be equipped appropriately. Therefore, Project impacts will be less than significant. d) Expose people or structures to significant risks, including downslope or downstream flooding or landslides, as a result of runoff, post-fire slope instability, or drainage changes? The Project will not change the nature of the Project Site. Therefore, the Project will have no impact. Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 109 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) Environmental Issues Potentially Significant Impact Less-than- significant With Mitigation Incorporated Less-than- significant Impact No Impact 21. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE a) Does the Project have the potential to substantially degrade the quality of the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community, substantially reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal, or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory? b) Does the Project have impacts that are individually limited, but cumulatively considerable? (“Cumulatively considerable” means that the incremental effects of a Project are considerable when viewed in connection with the effects of past Projects, the effects of other current Projects, and the effects of probable future Projects.) c) Does the Project have environmental effects, which will cause substantial adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly? MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE SUMMARY a) Does the Project have the potential to substantially degrade the quality of the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community, substantially reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal, or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory? As discussed in Section IV. Biological Resources, implementation of Mitigation Measures BIO-1 through BIO-6 would ensure that project construction and subsequent maintenance and operation activities would not 1) substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species; 2) cause a fish or wildlife species population to drop below self-sustaining levels; 3) threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community; or 4) reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal. As discussed in Section V. Cultural Resources, implementation of Mitigation Measures CUL- 1 and CUL-2 would ensure that the Project does not eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory. Implementation of Mitigation Measures CUL-1, CUL-2, and CUL-3 would also ensure that potentially significant impacts to tribal cultural resources would be reduced to less-than-significant levels. In addition to these mitigation measures, mitigation measures would be implemented as described in the air quality, geology, and hazards sections to reduce other Chapter 2: Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impacts Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 110 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) impacts to less-than-significant levels. Therefore, the Project impacts would be less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. b) Does the Project have impacts that are individually limited, but cumulatively considerable? (“Cumulatively considerable” means that the incremental effects of a Project are considerable when viewed in connection with the effects of past Projects, the effects of other current Projects, and the effects of probable future Projects.) As noted throughout this document, the potential impacts of the Project are largely restricted to temporary and short-term construction-related impacts and are site-specific. As noted in answer a) of this section, all of the potential direct and indirect impacts of the Project were determined to be fully avoided or reduced to a less-than-significant level with incorporation of avoidance and minimization measure AQ-1 and mitigation measuresBIO-1 through BIO-6, CUL-1 through CUL-3, HAZ-1 through HAZ-4, and NOISE-1a through NOISE-2. As a result, the potential impacts of the Project are not considered to have cumulatively considerable contributions to other past, present, or probable future Projects, and impacts would be less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. c) Does the Project have environmental effects, which will cause substantial adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly? Most of the potential impacts of the Project would be temporary and short-term. These impacts would be localized to the Project Site and may include limited adverse effects on air quality, biological resources, cultural resources, geology and soils, greenhouse gas emissions, and hazard and hazardous materials. However, the Project would not include any activities or uses that would cause substantial adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly. The Project would adhere to local codes and regulations as conditions of Project approval. Compliance with applicable local, State, and federal standards, as well as incorporation of Project mitigation measures, would result in less-than-significant impacts. The Project would not cause substantial adverse direct or indirect effects on human beings as impacts would be avoided and minimized where possible and mitigated when necessary. Mitigation measures would be implemented as described in the Air Quality, Biological Resources, Cultural Resources, Hazards and Hazardous Materials, Noise, and Tribal Cultural Resources sections. Therefore, Project impacts would be less-than-significant with mitigation incorporated. Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District June 2024 Project No. 7505-6F8101 111 County CEQA No.:(CP# 22-17) ATTACHMENTS Attachment 1. Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program Attachment 2. Biological Resources Reports Attachment 3. Air Quality Emissions Calculations Attachment 1. Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control District June 2024 Preliminary − Subject to Revision MITIGATION MONITORING REPORTING PLAN The following Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Plan (MMRP) will be implemented as part of the Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project. Contra Costa County Public Works Department (CCCPWD) is responsible for ensuring these measures are implemented by CCCPWD staff and by Contractors working on behalf of CCCPWD. Mitigation, Avoidance, and Minimization Measures (Measures begin on next page) Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control District June 2024 Preliminary − Subject to Revision Impact Mitigation Measure: Implementation Timing Implementation Responsibility Verification Responsibil ity Compliance Verification Date IMPACT AQ-1: Temporary increase in emissions MITIGATION MEASURE AQ-1: Basic Construction Best Management Practices 1. All exposed surfaces (e.g., parking areas, staging areas, soil piles, graded areas, and unpaved access roads) shall be watered two times per day. 2. All haul trucks transporting soil, sand, or other loose material off-site shall be covered. 3. All visible mud or dirt track-out onto adjacent public roads shall be removed using wet power vacuum street sweepers at least once per day. The use of dry power sweeping is prohibited. 4. All vehicle speeds on unpaved roads shall be limited to 15 mph. 5. All roadways, driveways, and sidewalks to be paved shall be completed as soon as possible. 6. Idling times shall be minimized either by shutting equipment off when not in use or reducing the maximum idling time to 5 minutes (as required by the California airborne toxics control measure Title 13, Section 2485 of California Code of Regulations [CCR]). Clear signage shall be provided for construction workers at all access points. 7. All construction equipment shall be maintained and properly tuned in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications. All equipment shall be checked by a certified mechanic and determined to be running in proper condition prior to operation. 8. Post a publicly visible sign with the telephone number and contact information for the designated on-site construction manager available to receive and respond to dust complaints. This person shall report all complaints to Contra Costa County and take immediate corrective action as soon as possible but not more than 48 hours after the complaint is received. The Bay Area Air Quality District’s phone number shall also be visible to ensure compliance with applicable regulations. During construction Contractor and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control District June 2024 Preliminary − Subject to Revision IMPACT BIO-1: Disturbance to special-status species and their habitats MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-1: General Construction-related Mitigation Measures The following best management practices/avoidance and minimization measures would be used for protection of the biological resources within the BSA. 1. Worker Environmental Awareness Training (WEAT): Prior to the start of construction in each year, construction personnel shall be trained by a qualified biologist on all required avoidance and minimization measures as well as permit requirements. 2. Preconstruction surveys for all special status and common wildlife species shall be conducted within the Project area by a qualified biologist immediately prior to equipment or material staging, pruning/grubbing, or surface-disturbing activities. The qualified biologist shall search aquatic vegetation, the water’s surface, leaf litter, logs, snags, and other habitat features for special status and common wildlife species. If species are found, individuals shall be relocated outside of the Project area if the qualified biologist is permitted to do so by all regulatory agencies and determines that relocation is warranted. Although not expected, this includes dewatering activities. If water diversion systems are implemented, a qualified biologist shall be on site to relocate all fish, turtles, invertebrates, and other wildlife observed outside of the work area. 3. Prior to start of construction, temporary high visibility ESA fence shall be placed at the upstream and downstream ends of the Project Site and placed along the southern riparian area to exclude the ESA. The limits shall be staked by a qualified biologist. 4. The District shall require the contractor to prepare a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) for construction activities according to the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Construction General Permit as required under Section 402 of the Clean Water Act. The SWPPP shall identify water pollution control measures and construction- waste containment measures to be implemented during and after project construction, including but not limited to: o Trash generated by the Project shall be promptly and properly removed from the site daily. o Appropriate erosion control measures (e.g., fiber rolls, filter fences, hydroseeding of exposed soils, and mulching) shall be used on site to reduce siltation and runoff of contaminants into jurisdictional waters. Filter fences and mesh shall be of material that shall not entrap reptiles and amphibians. Fiber rolls shall not contain plastics of any kind. Erosion control blankets shall be used as a last resort because of their Prior to and during construction Qualified Biologist and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control District June 2024 Preliminary − Subject to Revision Impact Mitigation Measure: Implementation Timing Implementation Responsibility Verification Responsibil ity Compliance Verification Date tendency to biodegrade slowly and to trap reptiles and amphibians. o No erodible materials shall be deposited into watercourses. Brush, loose soils, or other debris material shall not be stockpiled within stream channels or adjacent to the basin. o Active construction areas shall be watered regularly. o Dredged sediments shall be managed during construction. o A hazardous materials management plan will describe the actions that shall be taken in the event of a spill that could potentially impact jurisdictional waters. Adequate spill containment materials, such as hazardous material absorbent pads and similar materials, shall be available on site at all times. The plan also shall incorporate preventive measures to be implemented (such as vehicle and equipment staging, cleaning, maintenance, and refueling) and contaminant (including fuel) management and storage. 5. All excavated steep-walled holes and trenches more than six inches deep shall be covered with plywood (or similar material) or provided with one or more escape ramps constructed of earth fill or wooden planks at the end of each work-day or 30 minutes prior to sunset, whichever occurs first. All steep-walled holes and trenches shall be inspected by the approved biologist each morning to ensure that no turtles or other wildlife has become entrapped. All construction pipes, culverts, similar structures, construction equipment, and construction debris left overnight shall be inspected for presence of wildlife by a WEAT- trained construction monitor prior to being moved. 6. All slash materials (limbs, branches, and other woody debris) resulting from tree removal activities shall be removed from the Project Site and properly disposed of at an off-site location. 7. Temporarily affected areas shall be restored to pre-Project conditions. Before October 31 and/or immediately after construction is complete, all exposed soils shall be stabilized to reduce the effects of erosion. Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control District June 2024 Preliminary − Subject to Revision Impact Mitigation Measure: Implementation Timing Implementation Responsibility Verification Responsibil ity Compliance Verification Date IMPACT BIO-2: Accidental introduction of new invasive species MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-2: Invasive Species Prevention 1.Only certified noxious weed-free erosion control materials shall be used. All straw and seed material shall be certified as weed- free prior to being used at the Project Site. 2.Contractor shall wash all construction equipment prior to bringing it onto the job site. Inspection shall ensure that equipment arrives on site free of mud and seed-bearing material. 3.Any reseeding of disturbed soil areas and newly constructed slopes shall use an appropriate native seed mix as specified in the plans and specifications. Prior to and during construction Resident engineer and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD IMPACT BIO-3: The Construction impacts to riparian habitat MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-3: Riparian Vegetation Protection 1.A riparian protection zone shall be established around all established vegetation in the southern portion of the existing sediment basin, coincident with the most recent sediment clearing boundary, with the exception of those trees and soil necessary to remove for building the training berm. This boundary would be established on design sheets and plan sets, as well as with protective temporary fencing placed in the field. 2.A qualified restoration biologist or botanist shall create a seed and plant palette appropriate for reestablishing impacted vegetation. Prior to and during construction Qualified Biologist and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control District June 2024 Preliminary − Subject to Revision Impact Mitigation Measure: Implementation Timing Implementation Responsibility Verification Responsibil ity Compliance Verification Date IMPACT BIO-4: Disturbance to Western Bumble Bee MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-4: Western Bumble Bee Mitigation Measures 1.Preconstruction Survey: A qualified biologist shall conduct a preconstruction survey 30 days prior to the onset of work. The pre-construction survey effort shall be conducted for a minimum of one hour. If bumble bees of any species are observed, they shall be photographed for identification following the USFWS guidance in Standardized Bee Photography in the Survey Protocols for the Rusty Patched Bumble Bee (Bombus affinis) (USFWS 2019). If construction begins between March 1 and November 1, the ground shall also be searched during the survey for active bumble bee colonies. 2.No capture or handling of bumble bees is allowed without formal State take authorization. If individual western bumble bees are observed during preconstruction surveys, in consultation with CDFW, they shall be avoided to ensure no “take” occurs. This may require biological monitoring or avoidance buffers until the bees have left the work area. If western bumble bee colonies are identified, these colonies shall be demarcated with a flagged avoidance buffer, as determined by a qualified biologist and shall be avoided during the active season from March 1 through November 1, or until the qualified biologist, in consultation with CDFW, has determined that the colony is no longer active. All sightings of western bumble bee shall be reported to the CNDDB. Prior to and during construction Qualified Biologist and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD IMPACT BIO-5: Disturbance to Special status fish MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-5: Best Management Practices for Fish The Project shall limit in-water construction to the period between June 1 and October 31 to avoid the spawning season. The Project proponent shall obtain and comply with the requirements of the Section 404 permit issued by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Programmatic Biological Opinion for steelhead issued by National Marine Fisheries Service. Prior to and during construction Qualified Biologist and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control District June 2024 Preliminary − Subject to Revision Impact Mitigation Measure: Implementation Timing Implementation Responsibility Verification Responsibil ity Compliance Verification Date IMPACT BIO-6: Disturbance to Western Pond Turtle MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-6: Construction Monitoring for Western Pond Turtles 1. If any turtles or turtle nests are found during preconstruction surveys, a qualified and permitted biologist shall flag the site and determine whether construction activities can avoid affecting the nest. If the nest cannot be avoided, in consultation with CDFW, a no-disturbance buffer zone may be established around the nest until the young have left the nest. If weather conditions prevent implementation of construction beyond two days after completion of turtle surveys, re-survey for this species shall be completed. 2. Once a temporary high visibility ESA fence is installed within the Project Site and all vegetation has been cleared, a designated construction monitor (trained by the qualified biologist), shall inspect the work area for western pond turtles anytime work activity ceases for two days or more. If a western pond turtle is observed by the construction monitor in the immediate work area, no work shall commence in the area of the sighting until the turtle has moved out of harm’s way or the qualified biologist has arrived at the site and relocated the turtle. Prior to and during construction Qualified Biologist and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control District June 2024 Preliminary − Subject to Revision Impact Mitigation Measure: Implementation Timing Implementation Responsibility Verification Responsibil ity Compliance Verification Date IMPACT BIO-7: Disturbance to nesting birds MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-7: Migratory Birds and Raptors Construction Measures 1. To the extent feasible, tree removal shall be conducted outside the nesting season (which occurs between February 15 – August 31) for migratory birds and raptors. 2. A preconstruction nesting bird survey, shall be conducted by a qualified biologist prior to construction activities that take place during the nesting season (February 15-August 31) including any removal of vegetation at the Project Site. If all Project work is conducted during this work window, preconstruction surveys would only be required for wintering burrowing owls and not nesting birds. The survey shall be conducted no more than 7 days prior to the start of construction. Buffers will be placed around any nests that are found during the survey, in consultation with CDFW. No work shall be conducted within the buffers until the qualified biologist has determined that the nesting attempt is complete. Buffers for songbird nests are generally on the order of 50 to 100 feet and for raptors on the order of 250 to 500 feet, with the precise distance determined by the qualified biologist conducting the preconstruction survey based on species, nest site characteristics, and the acclimation of the nesting birds to disturbance. 3. If Western Burrowing Owl burrows are found, a qualified biologist shall flag the site and in consultation with CDFW, determine whether construction activities can avoid affecting the nest. If the nest cannot be avoided, in consultation with CDFW, a no-disturbance buffer zone and monitoring plan would be established. Prior to and during construction Qualified Biologist and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control District June 2024 Preliminary − Subject to Revision Impact Mitigation Measure: Implementation Timing Implementation Responsibility Verification Responsibil ity Compliance Verification Date IMPACT BIO-8: Disturbance to bats MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-8: Roosting Bats and Maternity Colonies Mitigation Measures 1. Roosting bat habitat assessments and preconstruction surveys shall be conducted within 30 days prior to the onset of work to ensure the absence of roosting bats before construction, as detailed below. Prior to the start of construction, a bat habitat assessment shall be conducted to identify suitable bat roosting habitat including bridges, snags, rotten stumps, and trees with broken limbs, exfoliating bark, cavities, etc. This shall be done within 30 days. Potential roosting habitat shall be avoided to the maximum extent practicable. If no suitable roost sites are identified, no further minimization measures are necessary. 2. If suitable roosting habitat is identified and shall be disturbed by presence and noise of equipment and workers for more than two hours, a qualified biologist shall be present to monitor the bat roosting habitat and will stop work if any disturbance to bats is detected and contact CDFW for further guidance. 3. If suitable roosting habitat is identified and shall be removed by the Project, such as from tree removal, a qualified biologist shall survey potential suitable roost sites immediately prior to the removal. If any sign of roosting bats or observation of individual bats is observed, the roost shall be removed in coordination with CDFW or according to permit conditions. Typical removal methods include first removing nonhabitat features such as limbs smaller than 3 inches in diameter. The tree is left overnight to allow any bats using the tree/snag to find another roost during their nocturnal activity period. A qualified biologist would survey the trees/snags a second time the following morning prior to felling and removal. Prior to and during construction Qualified Biologist and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control District June 2024 Preliminary − Subject to Revision Impact Mitigation Measure: Implementation Timing Implementation Responsibility Verification Responsibil ity Compliance Verification Date IMPACT CUL-1: Disturbance to historical resources. MITIGATION MEASURE CUL-1: Environmentally Sensitive Area and Archaeological and Tribal Monitoring • An Environmentally Sensitive Area (ESA) shall be established in areas where excavation activities deeper than 4.5 feet would occur in previously undisturbed soil. The horizontal and vertical ESA shall be delineated on all project plans. A vertical ESA limit of 16 feet will be established, and no Project-related activities (e.g., excavation, trenching) shall take place below the vertical ESA limit. • An archaeological monitoring plan shall be prepared prior to any ground disturbance. The plan shall outline the procedures for discoveries during construction; the chain of command and responsible parties; and special procedures should human remains be encountered. • Archaeological monitoring by a qualified archaeologist shall be conducted during all ground disturbing activities within the boundaries of the Environmentally Sensitive Area that yield visible spoils between 4.5 feet below current ground surface and 16 feet below current ground surface. A daily archaeological monitoring log shall be completed by the archaeological monitor and submitted weekly to the County of Contra Costa for review. Should archaeological resources or human remains be encountered the procedures outlined in the monitoring plan shall be implemented. • Tribal monitoring by a qualified Tribal monitor approved by the Confederated Villages of Lisjan Nation, the Tribe that consulted on this project pursuant to Assembly Bill 52 (the “Tribe”), shall be conducted during all ground disturbing activities within the boundaries of the Environmentally Sensitive Area between 4.5 feet below current ground surface and 16 feet below current ground surface. The Tribal monitor shall complete daily monitoring logs that provide descriptions of the day’s activities, including construction activities, locations, soil, and any cultural materials identified. Prior to and during construction Qualified Archaeologist and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control District June 2024 Preliminary − Subject to Revision Impact Mitigation Measure: Implementation Timing Implementation Responsibility Verification Responsibil ity Compliance Verification Date IMPACT CUL-2: Disturbance to unidentified historical resources MITIGATION MEASURE CUL-2: BMPs and Archaeological and Tribal Monitoring • Contractor shall be notified of the possibility of encountering historic, archaeological, or paleontological materials during ground-disturbing activities. A standard inadvertent discovery clause will be included in every construction contract to inform Contractors of requirements during construction. • Prior to the initiation of construction activities, a qualified archaeologist and Tribal monitor shall provide Worker Environmental Awareness Program (WEAP) training to construction personnel with an overview of applicable laws, Project mitigation measures, and procedures to be followed with regards to historical, archaeological, and Tribal resources that may be encountered over the course of the Project. • Procedures for discovery include: o If potential cultural materials are discovered during construction, the Contractor shall cease all ground disturbing activities within a 100-foot radius of the find. The Contractor shall immediately notify the District Resident Engineer or their designated representative to request a qualified archaeologist and Confederated Villages of Lisjan Nation representative to assess the nature and significance of the find. o If the finding(s) is determined to be potentially significant, the archaeologist in consultation with the Tribal representative shall develop a research design and treatment plan outlining management of the resource, analysis, reporting of the find, and curation or reburial of cultural items. Preservation in place (i.e., avoidance) is typically the preferred manner of treatment of Tribal resources and cultural items. o Any previously undiscovered resources found during construction within the Project Site shall be recorded on appropriate California Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) 523 forms and shall be submitted to Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development, the Northwest Information Center (NWIC), and the California Office of Historic Preservation (OHP), as required. Prior to and during construction Qualified Archaeologist and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control District June 2024 Preliminary − Subject to Revision Impact Mitigation Measure: Implementation Timing Implementation Responsibility Verification Responsibil ity Compliance Verification Date IMPACT CUL-3: Inadvertently disturbance to previously undiscovered human remains MITIGATION MEASURE CUL-3: Impact to Previously Undiscovered Human Remains •In the event of the accidental discovery or recognition of any human remains, there shall be no further excavation or disturbance within 100 feet of the remains until the Contra Costa County Coroner is contacted to determine whether the remains are Native American and if an investigation of the cause of death is required. At the same time, an archaeologist shall be contacted to assess the situation. •If the Coroner determines the remains to be Native American, the Coroner shall contact the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) within 24 hours of this identification. The NAHC shall identify a Most Likely Descendant (MLD) to inspect the site and provide recommendations for the proper treatment of the remains and associated funerary objects. •If the Confederated Villages of Lisjan Nation is designated as the MLD, the Tribe shall make every effort to recommend keeping ancestral remains and funerary objects in situ and protected. If removal of burials is necessary, Tribal representatives shall work with the qualified archaeologist to ensure that excavation and documentation are treated carefully, ethically, and respectfully. No photography or scientific study, destructive or non-destructive, shall be conducted on ancestral human remains. The archaeologist shall prepare a report of all activities, including the recommendations for the treatment of the human remains and any associated funerary objects as provided by the MLD. The report shall be submitted to the District, the Northwest Information Center, and the Tribe. •Tribal representatives shall rebury the Native American human remains and associated funerary objects with appropriate dignity either: 1) In accordance with the recommendations of the MLD if available; or 2) In the project vicinity at a location mitigated between the Confederated Villages of Lisjan Nation representative and the County, where the reburial would be protected in perpetuity and would not be subject to further subsurface disturbance. The discovery is to be documented on DPR523 forms and otherwise kept confidential and secure to prevent any further disturbance. During construction Resident engineer and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control District June 2024 Preliminary − Subject to Revision Impact Mitigation Measure: Implementation Timing Implementation Responsibility Verification Responsibil ity Compliance Verification Date IMPACT HAZ-1: Disturbance of soil or water that is potentially contaminated MITIGATION MEASURE HAZ-1: Prepare and Implement a Hazardous Materials Dewatering and Management Plan The Project proponent or its contractor(s) shall develop and implement a Hazardous Materials Dewatering and Management Plan establishing procedures to manage potentially contaminated fluids encountered during construction of the Project to minimize potential impacts to the public or environment from hazardous materials. The Plan shall identify proper protocols to test and handle potentially hazardous materials if any are found. The Plan shall identify potential licensed disposal facilities and their acceptance criteria; the chemicals to be analyzed to comply with those acceptance criteria, which shall include at a minimum TPH as gasoline, diesel, and motor oil, and BTEX compounds. The Plan shall identify the proper protocols for the following three dewatering fluid disposal options: • Groundwater with petroleum hydrocarbons (could be discharged to the WCWD under their Temporary Discharge Permit, providing the contaminant concentrations are within the Temporary Discharge Permit acceptance criteria and coverage under this permit is acquired prior to the discharge). • Groundwater with petroleum hydrocarbons could be pumped into trucks or portable storage containers and transported to an offsite licensed disposal facility permitted to accept the waste. • Groundwater with petroleum hydrocarbons could be treated onsite under the RWQCB’s General Waste Discharge Requirements for Discharge or Reclamation of Extracted and Treated Groundwater (RWQCB Order No. R2-2017-0048, NPDES Permit No. CAG912002). The pumped groundwater would be pumped into a settling tank to drop the sediments out of solution, and pumped through a treatment system (e.g., granular activated carbon [GAC] to decrease the concentration of TPH as diesel to less than 50 ug/L and TPH as motor oil to less than 100 ug analytically tested to verify that treatment has achieved the effluent limitations. Upon successful treatment, the water could be discharged to the ground. Prior to and during construction Resident engineer and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD IMPACT HAZ-2: Mobilization of contaminants MITIGATION MEASURE HAZ-2: Pollutant and Hazardous Materials Handling • The Bay Area Air Quality Management District shall be notified through their Asbestos Notification System prior to bridge demolition in compliance with the National Emissions Standards for Hazards Air Pollutants (NESHAP). • Worker safety recommendations for employees working at the site follow state and federal hazardous material handling regulations during construction activities. Prior to and during construction Resident engineer and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control District June 2024 Preliminary − Subject to Revision Impact Mitigation Measure: Implementation Timing Implementation Responsibility Verification Responsibil ity Compliance Verification Date IMPACT HAZ-3: Mobilization of contaminants MITIGATION MEASURE HAZ-3: Soil Sampling and Investigation Prior to commencement of sediment excavation activities for either the sediment basin expansion or the community amenities, a soil sampling plan and results report shall be prepared for the District and soil samples shall be collected. The samples shall be analyzed for heavy metals identified in California Code of Regulations (CCR) Title 22. The samples shall also be analyzed for total petroleum hydrocarbons (diesel-range, gasoline, and motor oil), semi‐volatile organic compounds (SVOC), and pesticides. The sampling report indicating the results of the sampling shall be submitted to the District for review and approval. If no contamination is present, no further action is required. If contamination is present, Mitigation Measure HAZ-4 will be implemented. Prior to and during construction Resident engineer and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control District June 2024 Preliminary − Subject to Revision Impact Mitigation Measure: Implementation Timing Implementation Responsibility Verification Responsibil ity Compliance Verification Date IMPACT HAZ-4: Mobilization of contaminants MITIGATION MEASURE HAZ-4: Implement Hazard Mitigation Plan Per Soil Sampling Report If soil testing results exceed applicable environmental screening levels (ESLs) the District shall follow the recommendations provided in the results report to minimize potential for accidental release of contaminants. Recommendations may include development and implementation of one or more of the following plans: • Preparation and implementation of a Health and Safety Plan: If recommended, a Health and Safety Plan would be prepared and implemented by the Contractor to provide appropriate disclosure and information to the site workers and personnel of the contaminants present, hazard identification and awareness, and appropriate personal protective equipment and procedures to be used during construction of the Project. • Preparation and implementation of a Soil Management Plan: If recommended, a Soil Management Plan would be prepared by the District and implemented by the Contractor. Likely conditions are dust control and monitoring procedures, soil handing procedures, soil profiling, transportation and disposal procedure to ensure that the construction workers, residents and the general public are protected and that the Contractor understands and has plans and procedures for handling, managing, stockpiling, profiling, transporting and disposing of the contaminated soils at an appropriate licensed disposal facility. The plan shall include lines of reporting and responsibilities and authorities. The plan shall also detail how soil will be managed to reduce hazardous material exposure impacts from operational use of the Project Site by workers and the general public. The plan shall also be approved by appropriate regulatory agency(s) if necessary. • Preparation and implementation of an Air Monitoring Plan: If recommended, an Air Monitoring Plan would be prepared by the District and implemented by the Contractor during construction that presents specific air monitoring procedures to be used during potentially dust generating portions of the construction activities. The Air Monitoring Plan may include sampling and testing at intervals sufficient to understand and avoid potential exposure to workers, residents, and the general public. Prior to and during construction Resident engineer and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control District June 2024 Preliminary − Subject to Revision Impact Mitigation Measure: Implementation Timing Implementation Responsibility Verification Responsibil ity Compliance Verification Date IMPACT NOISE-1: Temporary increase in ambient noise levels MITIGATION MEASURE NOISE-1a: Limit Construction Noise Emissions/Intrusions The Project shall implement the following BMPs: • Require all construction equipment to conform to Section 14- 8.02 Noise Control of the latest Caltrans Standard Specifications. This requires all internal combustion engine driven equipment to be equipped with intake and exhaust mufflers that are in good condition and appropriate for the equipment, and provide shrouding or shielding for impact tools (i.e., jackhammers). Utilize ‘quiet’ air compressors and other ‘quiet’ equipment where such technology exists. • Provide sound-control devices on equipment no less effective than those provided by the manufacturer. • Locate stationary equipment, material stockpiles, and vehicle staging areas as far as practicable from sensitive receptors. • Require applicable construction-related vehicles and equipment to use designated truck routes when entering/leaving the site. • Designate a County representative to serve as a noise (and vibration) disturbance coordinator who shall be responsible for responding to complaints about noise (and vibration) during construction. The telephone number of the noise disturbance coordinator shall be conspicuously posted at the construction site. Provide notification to the adjacent noise-sensitive receptors (residences and Verde Elementary), including the anticipated construction schedule and contact number for the designated noise disturbance coordinator who can address noise complaints. • Limit project construction activity to the weekday hours of 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. consistent with the Contra Costa County and City of San Pablo General Plans and Codes. If work is necessary outside of these hours, the City and County shall both approve the extended work hours, and the Resident Engineer shall be available to address any noise concerns during construction. Prior to and during construction Resident engineer and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Contra Costa County Flood Control District June 2024 Preliminary − Subject to Revision Impact Mitigation Measure: Implementation Timing Implementation Responsibility Verification Responsibil ity Compliance Verification Date IMPACT NOISE-1: Temporary increase in ambient noise levels MITIGATION MEASURE NOISE-1b: Inform Local School Authorities and Residents of Likely High Noise Periods during Project ConstructionWhen project construction work lasting more than a week is necessary in areas of the Project Site close to (i.e., within 200 feet of) the Verde Elementary School and existing homes facing the site south of Wildcat Creek, the Project contractor shall provide a minimum of 3-days’ notice to school and residents and advise them on short-term shifts to less-affected outdoor play/recreation spaces or to other indoor rooms less exposed to the direct noise from the construction activity until the more noise-intensive project construction stages are complete. During construction Resident engineer and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD IMPACT NOISE-2: Temporary increase in disruptive noise levels MITIGATION MEASURE NOISE-2: Minimize Project haul truck access to the site from low-volume roads near sensitive receptors. Haul trucks (i.e., trucks transporting debris, fill, and other materials on and off-site) shall access the site from the north via Rumrill Boulevard and Brookside Drive, which pass through largely commercial/industrial areas. Haul trucks shall not access the site through the southern access route of Giaramita Street and the Wildcat Creek Trail, which pass sensitive receptors, except for emergency access. During construction Resident engineer and CCCPWD Resident engineer and CCCPWD Attachment 2. Biological Resources Reports Biological Resources Assessment Wildcat Creek Fish Passage Improvement Community Engagement Project Contra Costa County, California Prepared for Contra Costa County Flood Control & Water Conservation District Prepared by FlowWest PO Box 29392 Oakland, California 94604 (510) 454-9378 June 2024 2 Table of Contents Table of Contents .......................................................................................................................................... 2 Acronyms and Abbreviations ........................................................................................................................ 4 1.0 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................. 5 1.1 PROJECT BACKGROUND ................................................................................................................ 6 1.1.1 Wildcat Creek ........................................................................................................................ 6 1.1.2 Wildcat Creek Steelhead ....................................................................................................... 7 1.1.3 Fish Passage .......................................................................................................................... 8 1.2 PROJECT LOCATION....................................................................................................................... 8 1.3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION ................................................................................................................ 11 1.4 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING ......................................................................................................... 12 1.4.1 Climate ................................................................................................................................ 13 1.4.2 Land Use .............................................................................................................................. 13 1.4.3 Vegetation ........................................................................................................................... 13 1.4.4 Hydrology ............................................................................................................................ 13 2.0 REGULATORY SETTING .................................................................................................................... 14 2.1 FEDERAL REGULATIONS .............................................................................................................. 14 2.1.1 Endangered Species Act ............................................................................................................. 14 2.1.2 Magnuson-Stevens Act .............................................................................................................. 14 2.1.3 Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act ............................................................................................. 15 2.2 STATE AND LOCAL REGULATIONS ..................................................................................................... 15 2.2.1 California Endangered Species Act ............................................................................................. 15 2.2.2 Other Bird Protections ............................................................................................................... 17 2.2.3 Native Plant Protection Act ........................................................................................................ 17 2.2.4 Responsible Agencies, Potential Impacts to Federally Listed Species ....................................... 18 3.0 METHODOLOGY .............................................................................................................................. 18 3.1 SPECIAL STATUS SPECIES ............................................................................................................. 18 3.1.1 Literature Review ....................................................................................................................... 19 3.1.2 Site Visits .................................................................................................................................... 20 4.0 RESULTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS .............................................................................................. 21 4.1 SITE VISIT RESULTS ...................................................................................................................... 21 3 4.1.1 Terrestrial and Avian Wildlife Species........................................................................................ 21 4.1.2 Aquatic Wildlife Species ............................................................................................................. 21 4.1.3 Habitat Types and Vegetation.................................................................................................... 22 4.2 SPECIAL STATUS SPECIES AND LISTED HABITAT.......................................................................... 25 4.2.1 Vegetation ........................................................................................................................... 26 4.2.2 Wildlife ................................................................................................................................ 26 4.3 EFFECTS DETERMINATION FOR FEDERALLY-LISTED SPECIAL STATUS SPECIES ........................... 30 4.3.1 Central California Coast Steelhead ............................................................................................ 30 4.3.2 Southern Distinct Population Segment Green Sturgeon ........................................................... 31 5.0 Avoidance and Minimization Measures .......................................................................................... 32 5.1 Species-Specific Avoidance and Minimization Measures ........................................................... 33 5.1.1 Vegetation .................................................................................................................................. 34 5.1.2 Western Bumble Bee ................................................................................................................. 34 5.1.3 Fish ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….35 5.1.4 Western Pond Turtle .................................................................................................................. 35 5.1.5 Nesting Birds .............................................................................................................................. 36 5.1.6 Hoary Bat, Other potential bat habitat ...................................................................................... 37 6.0 REFERENCES .................................................................................................................................... 38 TABLES Table 1: Trees to be Removed Survey Results Table 2: Guidelines for Activities Around Occupied Burrowing Owl Nests FIGURES Figure 1: Project Vicinity Map Figure 2: Project Footprint, Biological Study Area Figure 3: Project Elements Figure 4: Wetland Delineation and Riparian Habitat Mapped Figure 5: Mapped Habitats LIST OF APPENDICES Appendix A. Wildcat Creek Fish Passage Project—Observed Plant Species Appendix B. Wildcat Creek Project—Wildlife Observations Appendix C. Special Status Species 4 Appendix D. CNDDB Special Status Species Map Appendix E. Site Photos Appendix F. Essential Fish Habitat and Critical Habitat Technical Memorandum Acronyms and Abbreviations Term Abbreviation Best Management Practices BMP Biological Opinion BO Biological Resources Assessment BRA Biological Study Area BSA California Department of Fish and Game CDFG California Department of Fish and Wildlife CDFW California Endangered Species Act CESA California Environmental Quality Act CEQA California Native Plant Society CNPS California Natural Diversity Data Base CNDDB Central California Coastal CCC Center for Ecosystem Management and Restoration CEMAR cubic feet per second cfs Digital Elevation Models DEM East Bay Regional Park District EBRPD Endangered Species Act ESA Essential Fish Habitat EFH Geographic Information System GIS Habitat Conservation Plan HCP Incidental Take Statement ITS Information for Planning and Consultation IPaC Longitude/Latitude Identification LLID Memorandum of Understanding MOU Migratory Bird Treaty Act MBTA National Environmental Policy Act NEPA National Hydrography Dataset NHD National Marine Fisheries Service NMFS National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration NOAA Native Plant Protection Act NPPA Primary Constituent Element PCE Species of Special Concern SOSC Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan SWPPP 5 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers USACE U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service USFWS U.S. Geological Survey USGS Worker Environmental Awareness Training WEAT Wildcat Creek Fish Passage Improvement and Community Engagement Project Project Project Title Wildcat Creek Fish Passage Improvement and Community Engagement Project Lead Contra Costa County Flood Control & Water Conservation District 1.0 INTRODUCTION This Biological Resources Assessment (BRA) report documents the existing biological setting and serves to outline anticipated impacts to sensitive biological resources for the implementation of the Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project (Project). The Project’s lead sponsor is the Contra Costa County Flood Control & Water Conservation District. This assessment is based on information (e.g., technical reports, data, mapping, aerial imagery) readily available at the time of the study and on-site conditions observed during a field survey conducted on February 23, 2022. The objectives of this BRA are to: 1. Determine if there is the potential for any special status plant species or special status animal species to be present within the Project site; 2. Determine if there is the potential for any sensitive habitat to be present within the Project site; 3. Analyze the potential for impacts to any special status species and sensitive habitat from the implementation of the Project in the context of California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), and other local laws and regulations; and 4. Provide recommendations for avoidance and minimization of Project impacts to sensitive biological resources. Based on the resources found in the Biological Study Area (BSA), which is the area within the Project boundary as shown on Figure 2, and through a database and literature review, the Project has the potential to affect the following sensitive biological resources listed below during the construction of the Project (See California Natural Diversity Data Base (CNDDB) Special Status Species Map, Appendix D): Birds • Black-crowned night-heron (Nycticorax nycticorax) [Nesting] – California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) Watch List • Burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia) 6 Federal Birds of Conservation Concern / California State Species of Special Concern • Cooper’s hawk (Accipiter cooperii) [nesting] CDFW Watch List • Double-crested cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus) [rookery site] – CDFW Watch List • Northern harrier (Circus cyaneus) [Nesting] California State Species of Special Concern • Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) [Nesting] CDFW Watch List • Short-eared owl (Asio flammeus) [Nesting] Species of Special Concern Priority 3 • Snowy egret (Egretta thula) – California Special Animal • White-tailed kite (Elanus caeruleus) [nesting] California Fully Protected Species Reptiles • Western pond turtle (Clemmys marmorata marmorata) California State species of special concern Wildlife • Hoary Bat (Lasuirus cinereus) (including other bat species, if identified through pre- construction surveys) California Species of Special Concern • Western bumble bee (Bombus occidentalis) State and federal candidate for threatened or endangered listing Fish • Central California Coastal (CCC) Steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) Federally listed as threatened • Green Sturgeon Southern DPS (Acipenser medirostris) Federally listed as threatened and categorized as a state Species of Special Concern Plants • Fragrant fritillary (Fritillaria liliacea) Listed under the California Rare Plant Rank as 1B.2 (rare, threatened, or endangered in California or elsewhere). 1.1 PROJECT BACKGROUND 1.1.1 Wildcat Creek 7 Wildcat Creek flows from the Wildcat Canyon to the San Francisco Bay. Wildcat Creek is a tributary to the San Pablo Bay and Pacific Ocean, and is located in Contra Costa County, California (Figure 1). Wildcat Creek's legal description at the confluence with Pacific Ocean is T01N R05W S2. Its location is 37°57'12.0" north latitude and 122°23'16.0" west longitude, Longitude/Latitude Identification (LLID) number 1223877379532. Wildcat Creek is a third order stream and has approximately 23.1 miles of blue line stream according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS) National Hydrography Dataset (NHD) San Quentin 7.5 minute quadrangle. 1.1.2 Wildcat Creek Steelhead The Project’s focus is to improve fish passage for federally threatened CCC Steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Wildcat Creek supported a steelhead run historically, but degradation of habitat and construction of passage barriers from urbanization likely resulted in their extirpation sometime after 1915 (UCC 2010). The steelhead population decline was caused by many factors in Wildcat Creek, including the construction of the dams that created the two Wildcat Canyon reservoirs (Jewel Lake and Lake Anza), in conjunction with increased regional urbanization. In 1977, and again in 1981, the California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG, now CDFW) conducted electroshocking surveys in the creek and did not find any steelhead or “rainbow trout,” the resident freshwater descendants of former steelhead runs (Leidy 2005). In September of 1983, the East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) and public volunteers caught 615 rainbow trout in Redwood Creek in Oakland and transplanted them into Wildcat Creek between Alvarado Park and the Botanic Garden in Tilden Park (UCC 2010). Since their reintroduction, the trout have spread throughout the creek’s 13.5 mile main stem and re-established breeding populations. This successful reintroduction of native rainbow trout carries the potential for a portion of these fish to revert back to an anadromous lifecycle (steelhead) thereby reviving a viable steelhead run in Wildcat Creek East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD 2006). During recent intermittent surveys, sub-adult and adult rainbow trout have been documented in the lower reaches of Wildcat Creek (in pools below Rumrill Boulevard) as early as 1997, suggesting that the lower watershed presents opportunities for spawning and rearing, not just migration. According to the Center for Ecosystem Management and Restoration (CEMAR’s) San Francisco Estuary Watersheds Evaluation of 2007, only 5.1 miles of the watershed’s total 22 miles of stream channel is suitable and available to steelhead. There has been strong local interest in restoring a steelhead population to the Wildcat Creek watershed. Many West Coast steelhead stocks have declined substantially from their historic numbers and now are at a fraction of their historical abundance. There are several factors that contribute to these declines, including: overfishing, loss of freshwater and estuarine habitat, hydropower development, poor ocean conditions, sedimentation and hatchery practices (NOAA 2016). This Project addresses the interest in restoring a steelhead fishery through improvement of the fish passage structure where the Project is located (Figures 1-3). Steelhead are documented in very low numbers in Wildcat Creek according to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries (NOAA 1996). Steelhead utilize Wildcat Creek when fish passage is possible to move upstream to viable habitat for spawning. The up-migration period for 8 steelhead is estimated to be October through the end of March (NOAA 1996). Steelhead move through the urbanized portions of Wildcat Creek, where the Project is located, in approximately 3 hours (Pers. Comm., 2022). However, the passage window for steelhead is limited by certain flows, because Wildcat Creek flow data shows that stream flows peak and recede rapidly (NHC 2011). Adequate fish passage through this section of Wildcat Creek is therefore critical for upstream movement. 1.1.3 Fish Passage Prior to the flood control district’s channelization and the construction of levees, downstream reaches of Wildcat Creek overflowed their banks and inundated adjacent land (USACE 1977). In the early 1960’s, Local and Federal agencies proposed flood protection measures along Wildcat as part of an effort to improve the area’s economic vitality. Contra Costa County and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) worked together to develop the Wildcat Creek Flood Control Project. The Wildcat Creek Fish Passage Project was included in the USACE Flood Control Project, and was completed in 1995, extending from the mouth of Wildcat Creek to the railroad crossing. It increased the Wildcat Creek channel conveyance to 2300 cubic feet per second (cfs), the one percent annual chance peak flow1. The Wildcat Creek fish passage structure has subsequently had problems with debris clogging the channel and the slope of the structure is not conducive to fish passage (NHC 2014). Further, the existing fish passage structure is currently undersized; the fish passage structure’s capacity is only 16 cfs, and the percent of flows in the range of 3-16 cfs is about 30%, meaning that the current fishway is undersized and does not meet current CDFW and National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) design criteria. In the late 1990s, the USACE began a Section 1135 Investigation for Wildcat Creek to enhance habitat along the Flood Control Project reach of Wildcat Creek. The Section 1135 Investigation includes enhancing habitat and fish passage through the sediment basin and included the Project’s concrete channel located about 1,000 feet downstream of Rumrill Boulevard. Once updated, the Project should benefit not only listed CCC steelhead, but allow for passage of other amphibians and possibly turtles as a result of the reduction in sediment and trash blocking the thoroughfare. 1.2 PROJECT LOCATION The Project is located on Wildcat Creek within the Cities of Richmond, San Pablo and unincorporated North Richmond in Contra Costa County, California (Figure 1). An 1,800-foot-long segment of Wildcat Creek defines the Project area: from the downstream (west) Giaramita Street and Wildcat Creek intersection in North Richmond, east (upstream) to the Rumrill Boulevard and Wildcat Creek intersection in the City of San Pablo. 1 This is the boundary of the flood that has a 1-percent chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year. 9 FIGURE 1: PROJECT VICINITY MAP. 10 FIGURE 2: PROJECT FOOTPRINT, BIOLOGICAL STUDY AREA. 11 1.3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION The Project is located in North Richmond, an unincorporated area in western Contra Costa County and the Cities of Richmond and San Pablo, along the Wildcat Creek between Rumrill Boulevard and 6th Street. The Project site includes the existing flood control and fish passage structures, the downstream sedimentation basin and the adjacent trail and Contra Costa County Flood Control District (District) corporation yard. The existing structure currently clogs up with urban debris and sediment, which increases sediment deposition in the fish passage structure. When blocked with debris, the fish passage channel is a barrier to upstream adult migration under all flows. This is because the fish passage channel is blocked and the other bays of the in-flood control structure are not adequate in depth and velocity for fish passage. The Project activities, as shown in Figure 3 include: • Retrofitting the existing fish ladder and sediment basin within the Lower Wildcat Creek Flood Control Channel to create a more natural fish passage corridor. • Providing public amenities for the community to use including trail improvements, overlook areas, interpretive features and potential recreational and educational areas. These activities will improve habitat connectivity for Central California Coast steelhead trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), improve channel conveyance and benefit the local community. The Project will also meet CDFW and National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) current fish passage criteria as well as USACE performance criteria related to the 1% annual exceedance probability flood, or 100-year flood. 12 FIGURE 3: PROJECT ELEMENTS. 1.4 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING The Wildcat Creek watershed covers 6,848 acres and includes approximately 22 miles of creek channel. Wildcat Canyon is considered the upper watershed. Wildcat Regional Park and Tilden Regional Park, both managed by the East Bay Regional Park District as parkland, cover the upper watershed. The boundary between the upper and lower watershed falls near highway Interstate 80, where the creek flows out of the canyon onto its alluvial plain. In the lower reaches, Wildcat Creek flows through the heavily urbanized, residential, and commercial areas of the cities of Richmond and San Pablo before reaching salt marshes adjacent to San Pablo Bay. The mid-to-lower Wildcat Creek has an open channel and has a narrow remnant riparian vegetation corridor through most of the urban areas. Much of the City of San Pablo is located in Wildcat Creek’s lower watershed. About 2.2 miles of Wildcat Creek run through the City. Downstream, in the unincorporated Contra Costa County community of North Richmond, another 2.5 miles of Wildcat Creek’s channel flows into a tidal flat along San Pablo Bay. 13 The Wildcat Creek watershed has many culverts, encroaching development, altered stream flow and sediment dynamics, and pervasive urban pollutants present entrenched challenges to conservation of riparian wildlife, vegetation and fish who depend on a well-connected, high-quality creek corridor through the whole watershed. In the Project vicinity, which includes a 5-mile radius around the project boundary, the EBRPD trail runs adjacent to the creek and the area is characterized as urbanized with parking lots and an elementary school within 0.25 miles of the Project site. 1.4.1 Climate This region of California has a climate that is characterized by long, warm and arid summers and short, cold, wet and partly cloudy winters. Summer high temperatures average 84 degrees Fahrenheit. Average high temperatures during the winter are in the 50s, while the average daily low temperature is approximately 47 degrees Fahrenheit. 1.4.2 Land Use The land uses for areas surrounding the Project are all designated in the General Plan as “Light Industrial.” The BSA area is located in a highly urbanized area of Contra Costa County with light industrial buildings, schools and housing along the creek corridor. Adjacent lands include a railroad line that encompasses a 50-foot buffer that is denuded of vegetation, a Pick-n-Pull car lot, and light industrial warehouse buildings. A paved pedestrian/bicycle path runs through the project site along north side top of bank. 1.4.3 Vegetation In the upland area just north of the sediment basin and the Wildcat Creek Fish Passage Structure is highly modified; approximately 60.5% (8.1 acres) of the BSA is characterized by ruderal grassland. The creek’s riparian area below the fish passage structure is compromised due to excessive sedimentation that does not support healthy vegetative growth. On the south bank outside of the sedimentation basin is a mixed riparian woodland composed of willows (Salix laevigata), with occasional Fremont cottonwood (Populus fremontii), and white alder (Alnus rhombifolia). On the north side of the sediment basin and on the banks of the sediment basin are several isolated trees, including a non-native weeping willow (Salix babylonica), Fremont cottonwood, and coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia). Habitat types are discussed further in Section 3.1.3. Wetlands and waters were also delineated as part of a wetland delineation conducted by Vollmar Natural Lands Consulting. Wildcat Creek and associated wetland features support predominantly native hydrophytic vegetation with a canopy of trees, shrubs and climbing vines within the riparian area and herbaceous grasses and forbs in the open habitat. 1.4.4 Hydrology Wildcat Creek flows from the Wildcat Canyon to the San Francisco Bay. Wildcat Creek is a fifth-order mainstem channel that is 13.5 miles in length to its highwater end. With the addition of artificial channels, such as storm drains and inboard ditches, drainage density is 9.1 miles/square mile of watershed. 14 2.0 REGULATORY SETTING 2.1 FEDERAL REGULATIONS 2.1.1 Endangered Species Act The Endangered Species Act (ESA) protects plants and animals that are listed as endangered or threatened by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and NOAA Fisheries. The following is a summary of the provisions for relevant sections pertaining to species protections: ▪ Section 9 of the ESA prohibits the taking of listed wildlife, where take is defined as “harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture, collect or attempt to engage in such conduct” (50CFR 17.3). For plants, this statute governs removing, possessing, maliciously damaging or destroying any listed plant on federal land and removing, cutting, digging up, damaging, or destroying any listed plant on non-federal land in knowing violation of state law (16 USC 1538). ▪ Section 7 of the ESA requires Federal agencies to consult with the USFWS/NOAA Fisheries if their actions, including permit approvals or funding, could adversely affect a listed (or proposed) species or its critical habitat. Through consultation and the issuance of a biological opinion (BO), the agencies may also issue an incidental take statement (ITS) (Section 10) allowing take of the species that is incidental to an otherwise authorized activity provided the activity will not jeopardize the continued existence of the species. ▪ Section 10 of the ESA provides for issuance of ITPs where no other Federal actions are necessary provided a habitat conservation plan (HCP) is developed. ▪ Section 3 of the ESA defines Critical Habitat and Essential Habitat as (1) the specific areas within the geographical area occupied by a species, at the time it is listed in accordance with ESA, on which are found those physical or biological features essential to the conservation of the species and that may require special management considerations or protection; and (2) specific areas outside the geographical area occupied by a species at the time it is listed, upon a determination that such areas are essential for the conservation of the species. For inclusion in a critical habitat designation, habitat within the geographical area occupied by the species at the time it was listed must first have features that are essential to the conservation of the species. Critical habitat designations identify, to the extent known and using the best scientific data available, habitat areas that provide essential life cycle needs of the species (areas on which are found the primary constituent elements). Primary constituent elements (PCEs) are the physical and biological features that are essential to the conservation of the species and that may require special management considerations or protection. These elements include but are not limited to the following: • Space for individual and population growth and for normal behavior; • Food, water, air, light, minerals or other nutritional or physiological requirements; • Cover or shelter; • Sites for breeding, reproduction or rearing (or development) of offspring; • Habitats that are protected from disturbance or are representative of the historic, geographical and ecological distributions of a species 2.1.2 Magnuson-Stevens Act 15 Essential fish habitat (EFH) is defined and regulated by Section 3(10) of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (MSA). EFH is defined in the MSA as those waters and substrate necessary to fish for spawning, breeding, feeding, or growth to maturity. The MSA requires Federal agencies to consult with the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) on all actions, or proposed actions, authorized, funded, or undertaken by the agency, that may adversely affect EFH. 2.1.3 Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act The Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) of 1918 (16 U.S.C. §§ 703-712, July 3, 1918, as amended,1989) makes it unlawful to “take” (kill, harm, harass, shoot, etc.) any migratory bird listed in Title 50 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Section 10.13, including their nests, eggs or young. Migratory birds include geese, ducks, shorebirds, raptors, songbirds, wading birds, seabirds and passerine birds (such as warblers, flycatchers, swallows, etc.). Executive Order 13186 for conservation of migratory birds (January 11, 2001) requires that any project with Federal involvement address impacts of Federal actions on migratory birds. The order is designed to assist Federal agencies in their efforts to comply with the MBTA and does not constitute any legal authorization to take migratory birds. The order also requires Federal agencies to work with the USFWS to develop a memorandum of understanding (MOU). Protocols developed under the MOU must promote the conservation of migratory bird populations through the following means: (1) avoid and minimize, to the extent practicable, adverse impacts on migratory bird resources when conducting agency actions; and (2) restore and enhance habitat of migratory birds, as practicable; and prevent or abate the pollution or detrimental alteration of the environment for the benefit of migratory birds, as practicable. Applicability of the MBTA to the Project Raptors (birds of prey: hawks, owls) such as Short-eared owl (Asio flammeus) among others, could nest on the Project Site. These raptors would be protected by the MBTA. Also, the common songbirds and wading birds that could occur on the site would be protected pursuant to this Act. If there is no direct mortality of species protected pursuant to this Act caused by development of the site, there should be no constraints to implementation activities. To comply with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, all active nest sites, if occurring, would have to be avoided while such birds were nesting. Upon completion of nesting, the Project could continue. Review specific requirements for avoidance of nest sites for potentially occurring species in the Mitigations section below. 2.2 STATE AND LOCAL REGULATIONS 2.2.1 California Endangered Species Act The California ESA (CESA) generally parallels the main provisions of the ESA, but unlike its Federal counterpart, CESA applies the take prohibitions to species proposed for listing (called “candidates” by the 16 state). Section 2080 of the CDFG Code prohibits the taking, possession, purchase, sale, and import or export of endangered, threatened, or candidate species, unless otherwise authorized by permit or in the regulations. Take is defined in Section 86 of the Fish and Game Code as “hunt, pursue, catch, capture or kill, or attempt to hunt, pursue, catch, capture or kill.” CESA allows for take incidental to otherwise lawful development projects. State lead agencies are required to consult with CDFW to ensure that any action they undertake is not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of any endangered, threatened or candidate species or result in destruction or adverse modification of essential habitat. Applicability of CESA to the Project State-listed or Species of Special Concern (SOSC) wildlife species with a slight probability to nest or occur on the Project site are: ▪ Burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia) ▪ Northern harrier (Circus cyaneus) [Nesting] ▪ White-tailed kite (Elanus caeruleus) [Nesting] ▪ Short-eared owl (Asio flammeus) [Nesting] ▪ Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) [Nesting] Reptiles Western pond turtle (Clemmys marmorata marmorata) Wildlife Hoary Bat (Lasuirus cinereus) (including other bat species, if identified through pre-construction surveys) Invertebrates Western bumble bee (Bombus occidentalis) The presence of these sensitive species cannot be ruled out. Nesting season surveys will need to be conducted on the Project site and within an “area of influence” around the Project site to ensure that construction-related activities do not result in impacts to any nesting birds, rare or common and other species breeding sites. The area of influence is larger for some species than others. Mitigation measures would reduce these impacts to a level regarded as less than significant. Fully Protected Species The State of California first began to designate species as “fully protected” prior to the creation of the CESA and the ESA. Lists of fully protected species were initially developed to provide protection to those animals that were rare or faced possible extinction, and included fish, amphibians and reptiles, birds, and mammals. Most fully protected species have since been listed as threatened or endangered under CESA. The regulations that implement the Fully Protected Species Statute (Fish and Game Code Section 4700 for mammals, Section 3511 for birds, Section 5050 for reptiles and amphibians, and Section 5515 for fish) provide that fully protected species may not be taken or possessed at any time. Furthermore, CDFW prohibits any state agency from issuing ITPs for fully protected species. CDFW will issue licenses or 17 permits for take of these species for necessary scientific research or live capture and relocation pursuant to the permit. Birds of Prey Sections 3800, 3513, and 3503 of the CDFG Code specifically protect birds of prey. Section 3800 states that it is unlawful to take non-game birds, such as those occurring naturally in California that are not resident game birds, migratory game birds, or fully protected birds, except when in accordance with regulations of the commission or a mitigation plan approved by CDFW for mining operations. Section 3513 specifically prohibits the take or possession of any migratory nongame bird as designated in the MBTA. Section 3503 of the Fish and Game Code prohibits the take, possession, or needless destruction of the nest or eggs of any bird. Additionally, Subsection 3503.5 prohibits the take, possession, or destruction of any birds and their nests in the orders Strigiformes (owls) or Falconiformes (hawks and eagles). These provisions, along with the federal MBTA, serve to protect nesting native birds. 2.2.2 Other Bird Protections California Fish and Game Code §3503, 3503.5, 3511, and 3513 prohibit the “take, possession, or destruction of birds, their nests or eggs.” Disturbance that causes nest abandonment and/or loss of reproductive effort (killing or abandonment of eggs or young) is considered “take.” All raptors (that is, hawks, eagles, owls) their nests, eggs and young are protected under California Fish and Game Code (§3503.5). Additionally, “fully protected” birds, such as the White-tailed Kite (Elanus leucurus) and Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), are protected under California Fish and Game Code (§3511). “Fully protected” birds may not be taken or possessed (that is, kept in captivity) at any time. Applicability to the Project As previously mentioned, there is suitable nesting habitat on the Project site and within the zone of influence of the Project site. As such, preconstruction nesting bird surveys are recommended to ensure nesting birds are not disturbed by Project activities. If a nest is observed, appropriate buffers will be established by a qualified biologist and/or ornithologist to ensure that nesting birds are not impacted by project activities. 2.2.3 Native Plant Protection Act The Native Plant Protection Act (NPPA) of 1977 was created with the intent to “preserve, protect and enhance rare and endangered plants in this State.” The NPPA is administered by CDFW and provided in Fish and Game Code Sections 1900-1913. The Fish and Wildlife Commission has the authority to designate native plants as “endangered” or “rare” and to protect endangered and rare plants from take. the California ESA of 1984 (Fish and Game Code Section 2050-2116) provided further protection for rare and endangered plant species, but the NPPA remains part of the CDFG code. 18 Plant Communities CDFW provides oversight of habitats (i.e., plant communities) listed as sensitive on the California Sensitive Natural Communities List (CDFW 2022), based on global and state rarity rankings. Natural communities are described at the alliance or association level for vegetation types affiliated with ecological sections in California as described in A Manual of California Vegetation (MCV; Sawyer et al. 2009). CDFW considers natural communities (i.e., alliances and/or associations) with state ranks of a S1 – S3 to be sensitive natural communities (CDFW 2022a). Not all associations have been assigned global and state ranking determinations at the time of the latest updated list (July 5, 2022) of sensitive natural communities. There are no sensitive plant communities occurring within the Project boundary or BSA. All riparian vegetation along Wildcat Creek is also regulated by CDFW through the Lake and Streambed Alteration permit process (CDFG Code Section 1602). 2.2.4 Responsible Agencies, Potential Impacts to Federally Listed Species ESA gives regulatory authority over terrestrial species and non-anadromous fish to the USFWS. NMFS has authority over marine mammals and anadromous fish. The only federally-listed species known to potentially occur on the Project site are CCC steelhead. There is suitable habitat on the Project site that can function as a migration corridor for CCC steelhead. With the Project implementation timing occurring outside of steelhead migration timing, the Project should not affect steelhead migration. Thus, the Project would not result in impacts to federally listed wildlife species. Benefits to sensitive fish species should be wholly beneficial and follow the Project goals to enhance and to protect fish habitat. 3.0 METHODOLOGY 3.1 SPECIAL STATUS SPECIES Special status species include those species listed by the Federal and State governments as endangered, threatened, or rare or candidate species for these lists. Endangered or threatened species are protected by the ESA of 1973 as amended, the California Native Plant Protection Act of 1977, and the CESA of 1970. Special status species also include those species listed by CDFW and the USFWS as Species of Special Concern which face extirpation in California if current population and habitat trends continue. Although CDFW and USFWS Species of Special Concern generally have no special legal status, they are given special consideration under CEQA. CEQA also considers impacts to plant species on CNPS Lists 1 and 2 as special status species and impacts to these species as well as those described above to be significant. CEQA provides additional protection for unlisted species that meet the “rare” or “endangered” criteria defined in Title 14, California Code of Regulations Section 15380. 19 Most birds in the United States, including non-special status species, are protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918. Under this act destroying active nests, eggs, and young is illegal. Section 3503 of the California Fish and Game Code makes it unlawful to take, possess or needlessly destroy the nests or eggs of any bird. Section 3503.5 makes it unlawful to take or possess birds of prey (hawks, eagles, vultures, owls) or destroy their nests or eggs. Definition of Sensitive Biological Resources For the purpose of this BRA sensitive biological resources included the following: 1. Any species that has been Listed, proposed for listing, or a candidate for listing as threatened or endangered under the ESA; 2. Any species that has been listed or a candidate for listing as rare, threatened or endangered under the California Endangered Species Act (CESA); 3. Nesting Birds protected under the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act as well as the California Fish and Game Code Sections 3503, 3503.5, and 3513; 4. Any species that has been listed in the Special Plants, Bryophytes and Lichens List as defined by the CNDDB (California Department of Fish and Wildlife [CDFW], 2020). This includes species of special concern, special status species, and fully protected species; 5. Any species that has been Assigned a Rare Plant Rank by the California Native Plant Society (CNPS) in the online version of its Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants of California (CNPS 2020); and 6. Sensitive Natural Communities include natural vegetation types listed in CDFW’s (2020) Natural Communities List considered to have significant conservation values that have been assigned a rank of S1, S2 or S3. Sensitive Natural Communities are protected through a regulatory framework including federal and state laws and regulations. These protections come from Section 10 of the federal Rivers and Harbors Act, sections 401 and 404 of the federal Clean Water Act, Section 1600 et seq. of the California Fish and Game Code, Section 15065 of the CEQA guidelines. 3.1.1 Literature Review Other primary references for special status species information includes sensitive species lists and information gathered using NMFS Endangered and Threatened Species Revision of Species of Concern List, Candidate Species List, California Native Plant Society’s Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants of California, Information for Planning and Consultation (IPaC) system, CDFW CNDDB, the California Native Plant Society’s (CNPS) inventory of rare and endangered plants, literature review and the USFWS. Potentially occurring Sensitive species were identified for the Project initially using the CNDDB database using a 5-mile radius for locations of sensitive fish, plants and wildlife, along with literature searches. CDFW maintains records for the distribution and known occurrences of special status species and sensitive habitats in the CNDDB. A list of sensitive species that have the potential to occur in the survey area was compiled based on a review of the following sources: 1. USFWS Information for Planning and Conservation (USFWS 2020); 20 2. Reported CNDDB occurrences of special status plants within 5 miles of the survey area (CDFW 2020) shown in Figures 3 and 4; A list of potential special status species developed from this review is provided in Appendix C. 3.1.2 Site Visits In addition to database information, a field survey of the Project site to identify sensitive flora and fauna was conducted on February 23, 2022, by biologists from FlowWest. The survey area encompassed the Project area for a total of 13 acres (Figure 2). All plant and animal species observed during the site visit were noted. Field surveys consisted of walking along the existing riparian corridor walking trails paralleling Wildcat Creek on the downstream end of the concrete fish passage structure. An area 250 feet on each side of the centerline of the Creek was evaluated and continued to the Project boundary on the downstream end. The surveys focused on describing the vegetation and habitat features present in the area. No protocol level wildlife and botanical surveys were conducted, however, all plant and animal species observed during the site visit were noted. During the site assessment, plant species were recorded, no terrestrial species were noted although some ground holes indicated reptile activity (Appendix B), and biological communities were assessed for the potential to support special status species. Representative ground-level photographs were also taken. No sensitive plant communities were identified, and no plant species were in bloom at the time of the survey. The wetland delineation was conducted by Vollmar Natural Lands Consulting on October 5, 2022. The field survey for the wetland delineation was done by foot, investigating topographic depressions and linear drainages identified remotely with the aerial imagery and digital elevation models (DEM) (Vollmar 2022). The boundaries of all potential Waters were identified using the three primary parameters (vegetation, soils and hydrology), though vegetation and topographic position guided most of the perimeter mapping. Where possible, delineation data points were established along the boundaries of representative habitat types to confirm feature jurisdictional status as appropriate. A total of 11 delineation data points and three habitat check points were established throughout the 13.3-acre study area. The collection of data points followed the Routine Wetland Determination Method developed by the ACOE and described in the 1987 ACOE Wetlands Delineation Manual (Environmental Laboratory 1987) and the Interim regional supplement to the Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual: Arid West Region (ACOE 2008). The boundaries of all potential jurisdictional Waters identified in the study area were mapped using sub-meter precise GPS units, as required by the ACOE (Trimble Geo7x units). In areas where topography, tree canopy cover, or the overpasses diminished GPS reception and therefore precision, points were recorded along habitat boundaries, with multiple readings for each point to increase precision. To further increase the GPS data precision, all data were differentially corrected using the nearest base station, Miller Knox, five kilometers away. Where points were recorded in lieu of 21 polygons, they were later connected to form polygons using Geographic Information System (GIS) software (Vollmar 2022). In addition to formal delineation points, representative habitats were investigated as “habitat checkpoints” to support the formal delineation process. The information recorded at each feature included dominant plant species, indicators of wetland hydrology, habitat connectivity and habitat features of interest (Vollmar 2022). All riparian habitat (3.507 acres) in the study area was identified and mapped, with the habitat being defined by vegetation occurring in association with wetlands and/or being dominated by wetland vegetation but not forming three parameter wetlands (Vollmar 2022). 4.0 RESULTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS A summary of the field observations, database review and an evaluation of biological resources potentially occurring in the Project area are included in the following sections. Species may occur at the site that were not observed due to the time of day, seasonal timing and number of site visits. Because of these limitations, species presence potential also includes database and habitat observations. A compilation from the database and literature review for the BSA and Project vicinity found that there are 13 special status animal species and one special status plant species identified as potentially occurring in the Project vicinity, (Appendix C). Where a species potential account is documented as “likely not present” or has “low or no potential to occur” this indicates that their required habitats are not present in the study area. This category includes an additional 11 special status plant and 16 wildlife species (that have low or no potential to occur). 4.1 SITE VISIT RESULTS 4.1.1 Terrestrial and Avian Wildlife Species Almost no wildlife was observed at the time of the survey. Nesting birds were documented in the area according to CNDDB. Because of the potential for nesting due to the presence of trees and grasslands that could be used for nesting, nesting surveys should occur prior to project construction. Observations that were made included common birds such as American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) and Common Pigeon (Columba livia) flying over the site. No mammals, reptiles or amphibians were observed. Some burrow areas and holes were observed (Appendix B), but no identification of species could be made due to the lack of tracks or defining characteristics of species use or evidence of recent activity seen. 4.1.2 Aquatic Wildlife Species During the February 23, 2022 site visit, no listed fish or resident fish species were observed. Wildcat Creek at the Project site including along the concrete portion of the channel (Appendix E). The concrete portion of the channel is currently a fish passage barrier due to sedimentation and trash blocking the throughway. Excessive sedimentation below the fish passage structure was also observed along almost a 22 1,000-foot section of the creek below the concrete structure. This section of the Creek was built as a sediment detention basin and does not provide suitable habitat for salmonids for any life stage. 4.1.3 Habitat Types and Vegetation Approximately 2.2% of the BSA consisted of a large concrete fish passage structure constructed of concrete and engineered riprap, which conveys Wildcat Creek through the Project site. The area below the concrete structure is a sediment basin which was constructed to retain up to 13 feet deep of sediment and was designed to be desilted periodically (NHC 2015). Riparian vegetation was sparse and consisted of non-native grasses with very few trees on the north side uphill portion of the riparian corridor. The area along the south side of Wildcat Creek, running for approximately 500 yards downstream of the concrete channel, is characterized by a habitat type of mixed riparian woodland with red willows (Salix laevigata), with occasional Fremont cottonwood (Populus fremontii), white alder (Alnus rhombifolia) and buckeye (Aesculus californica) with dense Elmleaf blackberry (Rubus ulmifolius) in shrub and climbing vine forms as well as some Himalayan blackberry (Rubus armeniacus) (Vollmar 2022). The main habitat type in the Project area is ruderal grassland (non-native spp.), which covers 60.5% of the BSA, followed by wetlands and seasonal creek across 15.5% of the Project Site, riparian woodland for approximately 13.1% of the BSA, and riparian wetland for 8.8% of the BSA, below the concrete fish passage structure. The ruderal grassland is characterized by mostly non-native species found such as rip- gut brome (Bromus diandrus). Scattered trees, including a large cottonwood (Populus fremontii) were noted. Other common species within the valley riparian habitat and downstream of the concrete channel include arroyo willow (Salix lasiolepis), sandbar willow (Salix exigua), non-native or hybrid black walnut (Juglans hindsii), Oregon ash (Fraxinus latifolia), box elder (Acer negundo) and valley oak (Quercus lobata). Understory species include species found include: Himalayan blackberry (Rubus armeniacus), curly dock (Rumex crispus), poison hemlock (Conium maculatum), chicory (Cichorium intybus) and smooth cocklebur (Xanthium strumarium). Vegetation in the vicinity of the Project Site and within the BSA has been strongly influenced by urbanization and the addition of the concrete fish passage structure and silt detention basin. Prior to urbanization, the Project site and survey area was a complex of riparian forests, valley grasslands, and off-channel floodplain. Under existing conditions only remnant examples of these plant communities occur, primarily in isolated or fragmented patches. As a result of landscape alterations, plant species in areas where these native habitats still occur have also become isolated, influenced by exotic species and in some cases extirpated. Plant communities within the survey area riparian corridors and impact areas were classified according to the habitats defined in the California Native Plant Society’s (CNPS) Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants of California (Skinner and Pavlik, 1994). CNPS habitats observed in the survey area include valley and foothill grassland and riparian woodland. Vollmar Natural Lands Consulting identified and mapped any potentially jurisdictional Waters and other regulated habitats within the project site. The regulated habitats are shown in Figure 4. The wetland delineation did not map plant communities, but did map habitat types, as listed below. 23 Wetland Habitat Classification • Perennial Marsh: The 0.233 acres of perennial marsh on the project site supports predominantly native hydrophytic vegetation and is generally defined by a linear patch of broadleaf cattail (Typha latifolia) that follows the northern edge of the excavated feature. • Riparian Wetland: The 1.178 acres of riparian habitat extends into upland soils lacking hydric indicators. • Seasonal Stream/Creek: The 0.781 acres of seasonal stream support predominantly native hydrophytic vegetation. Portions of the stream are characterized by tall Cyperus (Cyperus eragrostis), willow herb (Epilobium brachycarpum), dallis grass (Paspalum dilatatum), prostrate knotweed (Polygonum aviculare), annual bear grass (Polypogon monspeliensis, redtop (Agrostis stolonifera), dotted smartweed (Persicaria punctata) and water pepper (P. hydropiperoides), with isolated patches of red willow. • Seasonal Wetland: The 1.045 acres of seasonal wetland support predominantly native hydrophytic vegetation. Portions of the stream are characterized by tall Cyperus (Cyperus eragrostis), willow herb (Epilobium brachycarpum), dallis grass (Paspalum dilatatum), prostrate knotweed (Polygonum aviculare), annual bear grass (Polypogon monspeliensis, redtop (Agrostis stolonifera), dotted smartweed (Persicaria punctata) and water pepper (P. hydropiperoides), with isolated patches of red willow. There are also 1.74 acres mapped as riparian woodland, which does not meet the three parameter wetland test but includes riparian vegetation. A tree survey was conducted, the results of which are included as Appendix A. The tree survey sample includes trees that could potentially be impacted by the Project, and is not inclusive of all trees on the project site. A total of 24 trees were identified within the project impact areas, of which 22 had a diameter at breast height over 4 inches). Those trees included 14 Salix Laevigata (Red Willows), 1 Salix alba (Non-Native Willow), 4 Populus (Fremont Cottonwood), 4 Quercus agrifolia (Live Oak) and 1 dead Alnus (Alder). 24 FIGURE 4: WETLAND DELINEATIONAND RIPARIAN HABITAT MAPPED. 25 FIGURE 5: MAPPED HABITATS. TABLE 1: TREES TO BE REMOVED SURVEY RESULTS Tree Type Quantity Red Willow 14 Non-native Willow 1 Cottonwood 4 Live Oak 4 Alder 1 4.2 SPECIAL STATUS SPECIES AND LISTED HABITAT Of the 41 special status species (29 animals and 12 plants) that were identified based upon field investigation and review of database and on-site habitat suitability in the vicinity of the study area (Appendix C), 13 special status species were somewhat likely to occur. Species that were considered likely not present based upon database review were extrapolated and eliminated from potential impacts due to extremely poor or no habitat occurring in the BSA. The special status species that were 26 considered to have the potential to occur might be found in stream and riparian habitats, such as those found along Wildcat Creek below the concrete fish passage structure. No sensitive natural communities are present in the area. 4.2.1 Vegetation Special status plant species that may occur in the Project area include: • Fragrant fritillary (Fritillaria liliacea) Fritillary are documented within 5 miles of the Project site (CNDDB 2022). Fragrant fritillary typically occur in open hilly grasslands. Habitat in the BSA is very poor and dominated by non- native annual grasses, however there is marginally suitable habitat upslope of the sediment basin. Fragrant fritillary was not observed during the BSA survey. The blooming period for this species is between February and April, and the BSA survey was conducted in late-February (CNPS 2023). Basic conservation measures to protect sensitive plant species are outlined in Mitigation Measures. 4.2.2 Wildlife No wildlife species were observed during the site survey. However, the riparian woodland affords minimal opportunity for various resident wildlife species that could include numerous amphibians, reptiles, small mammals, and various raptors, and songbirds. Wildlife habitats present in the site survey area were characterized by sparse riparian annual grassland and woodland habitats. Invertebrates Special status wildlife species that may occur in the Project area include: • Western bumble bee (B. occidentalis) Western bumble bee is a candidate species for federal listing and is eligible for state listing as threatened. There are four CNDDB reports occurrences within five miles of the BSA, however, all of them are records of collections that occurred more than 50 years ago. There have been no recent verified observations of western bumble bee in Contra Costa County. The CNDDB reports occurrences within 5 miles of the BSA, and due to bees moving from patches, there is a small possibility that the Western Bumble Bee could be present on the Project site. Habitat in the BSA is very poor, not providing feeding or reproduction sites necessary. The population size of the western bumble bee is lower than historic populations and the trend is declining. Populations crashed in the 1990s, likely due to a combination of disease and other factors. Fish Special status fish species that may occur in the Project area include: • Central California Coastal (CCC) Steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) 27 Wildcat Creek historically supported a small run of CCC steelhead and currently resident trout are documented both below and above Lake Anza. (Mangarella 2023) (Leedy 2015). The CCC steelhead Distinct Population Segment (DPS) was originally listed as federally threatened in 1998. The listing was later re-evaluated following the development of NMFS’ hatchery listing policy. NOAA Fisheries issued a final listing determination that the DPS continues to warrant listing as a threatened species. For CCC steelhead, designated critical habitat includes the drainages of San Francisco and San Pablo Bays, including Wildcat Creek (Federal Register, 2000). EFH on the West Coast is identified in fisheries management plans (FMPs) developed by the Pacific Fishery Management Council (PFMC) and approved by the Secretary of Commerce. EFH is located in San Pablo Bay for Chinook salmon, coho salmon and California Central Coast (CCC) steelhead and includes the Project’s Action area (2 miles downstream in San Pablo Bay) but not in the immediate Project implementation area on Wildcat Creek. Habitat in the vicinity of the Project area of Wildcat Creek provides an intermittent migration corridor for resident trout up to the fish passage structure which is a barrier for trout and for CCC steelhead. These salmonids may use the Project area as a migration corridor through to the upper watershed only during rare occasions when passage is possible through the current concrete structure between September and March. The Project will be designed to afford passage during a wide range of flows. Also, habitat in the Project area is not suitable for spawning or rearing because it does not have appropriate substrate, temperatures or cover. Once the concrete structure is upgraded to be passable to CCC steelhead, the Project area would become a migration corridor for CCC steelhead. Migration corridors are part of critical habitat through physical and biological features (PBF) defined by NMFS. One of the primary goals of the Project is to allow CCC steelhead to reach the upper portions of the Wildcat watershed, where spawning and rearing is potentially suitable. The access to the upper watershed may also help to support anadromy and re-establish a steelhead population. • Green Sturgeon Southern DPS (Acipenser medirostris) In 2006, NMFS listed the southern DPS of North American Green Sturgeon (Acipenser medirostris) as threatened under the U.S. Endangered Species Act (Federal Register 2006) and added designated critical habitat designation in 2009 (NMFS 2009). 28 Green Sturgeon are not a species designated for EFH because they are not a commercially important species. However, the Project’s action area, which has potential effects that extend into the San Pablo Bay, is within critical habitat for green sturgeon2. PBFs for the southern DPS of the green sturgeon in the San Pablo Bay (and in the Project’s action area up to the mouth of Wildcat Creek) and associated Bay habitats includes: food resources for all life stages, water flows, water quality, migratory corridors, channel depths, and sediment quality. Dredging, in-water construction, National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) activities, commercial shipping, and habitat restoration are identified in the final green sturgeon critical habitat rule as activities that may affect one or more PBFs through alteration of the physical parameters of the estuary. Since, as stated above, the Project has potential to increase sedimentation into San Pablo Bay (without design and protection measures), green sturgeon PBFs have potential to be adversely impacted, and are therefore included in the effects analysis here and in the Biological Resources Assessment. Green sturgeon PBFs (for freshwater riverine systems and estuarine habitats) include: • food resources for larval, juvenile, subadult, and adult life stages; • water flow regime with flow magnitude, duration, seasonality, and rate-of-change supporting growth, survival, and migration of all life stages; • water quality including temperature, salinity, oxygen content, and other chemical characteristics supporting growth and viability of all life stages. Reptiles Western pond turtle (Clemmys marmorata marmorata) The Western pond turtle is a California Species of Special Concern. There is one CNDDB report occurrences within five miles of the BSA. It is an aquatic turtle that utilizes ponds, marshes, rivers, streams and irrigation ditches with aquatic vegetation. They prefer deep (great than two feet), quiet pools along streams. Important habitat features include basking sites and suitable upland habitat for egg-laying (sandy banks or grassy open fields adjacent to aquatic habitat). The riparian corridor has features that could serve as habitat for the Western Pond Turtle. Therefore, although they were not observed during the field survey, they could potentially occur on the Project Site. 2 The designations of critical habitat for listed species have generally used the term primary constituent elements (PCEs). NMFS and USFWS' recently issued a final rule amending the regulations for designating critical habitat (81 FR 7414; February 11, 2016), which replaced the term PCEs with physical or biological features (PBFs). In addition, NMFS and USFWS recently issued a final rule revising the regulatory definition of "destruction or adverse modification" of critical habitat (81 FR 7214; February 11, 2016), which refers to PBFs, not PCEs. The shift in terminology does not change the approach used in conducting an analysis of the effects of the proposed action on species. 29 Birds Several sensitive or locally rare bird species were determined to have the potential to nest, roost, or forage within the Project area. Black-crowned Night-heron (Nycticorax nycticorax) Black-crowned night-herons, which are on the CDFW Watch List, do not have any CNDDB recorded occurrences. Suitable habitat within the Project Site includes potential nesting habitat in the southern riparian area. Rookery sites are located adjacent to foraging areas including lake margins, mud-bordered bays and marshy spots. Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia) Burrowing owls, which are a species of special concern, have one CNDDB reported occurrence within five miles of the BSA. These occurrences in the vicinity are overwintering, rather than breeding, as this species breeds between February and August. Suitable habitat is present in the open ruderal vegetation of the Project Site; however, no suitable burrowing owl burrows were observed during the site visit. Cooper’s Hawk (Accipter cooperii) Cooper’s Hawks nest primarily in deciduous riparian forests and forage in open woodlands. Double-crested Cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus) Double-crested Cormorants are colonial nesters on coastal cliffs, offshore islands, and along lake margins in the interior of California. This species nest along the coast on sequestered islets, usually on the ground with sloping surfaces, or in tall trees along lake margins. This species may occur on the Project Site, particularly in the tall trees adjacent to the sediment basin. Northern Harrier (Circus cyaneus) Habitat for the Northern Harrier, which are a special status species, have been reported once in CNDDB reports occurrences within five miles of the BSA. Although Northern Harrier were not observed during the site visit, they nest and forage in grasslands and shrubby vegetation, usually at the edge of marshes. Therefore, there is suitable habitat present along the sediment basin and this species may occur on the Project Site year-round. Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) Osprey breed in northern California from the Cascade Ranges south to Lake Tahoe, and along the coast south to the Bay Area. Associated strictly with large, fish-bearing waters, they are primarily in Ponderosa pine through mixed conifer habitats. Osprey are common around major estuaries and salt marshes and large lakes/rivers. Though unlikely, the proximity to the San Francisco Bay of the Project Site means that this species may occur on the Project Site. Short-eared Owl (Asio flammeus) Short-eared Owls are found in both freshwater and saltwater marshes, lowland meadows, and irrigated alfalfa fields. Short-eared owls nest and seclude themselves during the daytime in tule patches and full grass. Short-eared owls nest on dry ground in depressions concealed in vegetation. This species may 30 occur on the Project Site foraging in the freshwater marsh areas and during nesting season in the ruderal grassland. Snowy Egret (Egretta thula) Snowy egrets are categorized as a California Special Animal. They are colonial nesters with nest sites situated in protected beds of dense tules. Rookery sites are situated close to foraging areas. Found in marshes, tidal-flats, streams, wet meadows, and borders of lakes. Though no tules are present and thus no suitable nesting habitat, foraging habitat exists on the Project Site for the Snowy egret. White Tailed Kite (Elanus caeruleus) White Tailed kites can be found in marshes in the San Francisco Bay Area and can nest near the top of dense willow stands (CDFW 2005). For these reasons, suitable foraging and nesting habitat exists on the Project Site in the marsh habitat and within the riparian woodlands in the south end of the sediment basin, respectively. Though no special status bird species were observed, the presence of habitat in the Project site includes all of the above as species to be considered present. The listed nesting bird species above are documented within 5 miles of Project site (CNDDB 2022). Mammals Hoary Bat (Lasuirus cinereus) Within the Project Site, mature riparian trees and annual grassland may provide suitable roosting and foraging habitat for bats, including the hoary bat and other native bat species. Hoary Bat (Lasuirus cinereus) have been located once in CNDDB; however, bats tend to be under-reporting in CNDDB sightings due to nocturnal activity. Hoary Bats roost in foliage under overhanging leaves, particularly in riparian areas. Females raise pups solitarily or in very small groups, and may move their young among multiple roost locations. Crevice and cavity-roosting bats such as pallid bat, big brown bat (Eptesicus fuscus), and several species of myotis bats (Myotis spp.) may use any available cracks or holes in trees as roosting habitat, in addition to the bridge structures in and adjacent to the Project Site. In addition to roosting habitat, bats may forage for insects almost anywhere in the Project area. No sign of roosting bats was observed during the site visit; however, a thorough bat roost survey was not conducted. Bats could be roosting in the bridges or trees in the Project area. 4.3 EFFECTS DETERMINATION FOR FEDERALLY-LISTED SPECIAL STATUS SPECIES This section is specifically focused on evaluating the impacts on the two federally-listed species that could be affected by the Project, satisfying the requirements of a Biological Assessment. The potential effects of the Project on listed species under NMFS jurisdiction are evaluated in this section and in the EFH/Critical Habitat Technical Memorandum (Appendix F). Those species include the CCC Steelhead and Southern DPS Green Sturgeon. 4.3.1 Central California Coast Steelhead Potential adverse effects could occur to CCC Steelhead if they are migrating upstream into spawning habitat or downstream to rearing habitat during project activities. However, it should be noted that 31 steelhead have not been documented in recent years migrating upstream past the Project site flood control structure. The data, though not absolute, is a good indication that occurrences of adult steelhead are very rare, and that most O. mykiss observed are possibly resident rainbow trout. Additionally, the overarching goal of the Project is to allow O. mykiss to re-establish in Wildcat Creek’s upper watershed where spawning and rearing can occur. To reduce potential Project impacts to the listed fish species, mitigation measures will be in place to reduce the impacts to less than significant, which are described in Section 5.0 Avoidance and Minimization Measures. The Project implementation will avoid adverse effects to CCC steelhead due to the following: (1) The Project work window is scheduled for a period when Wildcat Creek does not have flow, so no fish will be in the Creek. No temporary turbidity impacts will occur to downstream critical habitat from any project construction related sedimentation because of the work window as well; (2) The Project’s design includes improvement in the capacity of the sediment basin such that more sediment will be retained in the basin, reducing sedimentation at and below the Project Action Area of Wildcat Creek; (3) Riparian habitat will be improved in the Project vicinity due to a decrease in trapped sediment; and (4) The PBF “freshwater migration corridor” will be improved with the implementation of the Project, providing more passage opportunities at a larger range of flows. By avoiding times when CCC Steelhead could be present due to the lack of water in the channel, and by providing long-term improvements to habitat conditions for CCC Steelhead, the Proposed Action will avoid adverse effects to CCC Steelhead. Therefore, the Proposed Action may affect, but is not likely to adversely affect, CCC Steelhead. 4.3.2 Southern Distinct Population Segment Green Sturgeon Critical habitat for green sturgeon is found in San Pablo Bay but does not include Wildcat Creek’s mainstem corridor. Although Green Sturgeon critical habitat is found in the San Francisco/San Pablo Bays and estuaries, the mouth of Wildcat Creek and the creek itself do not support PBFs (appropriate temperatures and water quality) necessary for Green Sturgeon. Impacts to Green Sturgeon could occur if project sedimentation affected downstream critical habitat in San Pablo Bay. However, the effects from sedimentation to the mouth of Wildcat Creek where it flows into San Pablo Bay will be insignificant due to the following factors: 1. The Project will be implemented when Wildcat Creek is dry, so no sediment will be transported “downstream” during Project construction; and 2. Mitigation measures will be put in place to reduce impacts from sediment to be insignificant (not measurable levels in terms of delta ∆) levels when the channel is rewetted; and 3. Through design features that increase the capacity of the sediment basin, sedimentation will be reduced downstream when the channel is rewetted. 32 The lack of PBFs to support Green Sturgeon means that Green Sturgeon are not present in Wildcat Creek. Downstream effects to Green Sturgeon habitat in San Pablo Bay would be beneficial through the overall decrease in sedimentation. Therefore, the Proposed Project would have no effect on Green Sturgeon. 5.0 AVOIDANCE AND MINIMIZATION MEASURES The presence of special status species would trigger the need for additional best management practices and mitigation measures, outlined below in Section 4.1. Species-specific avoidance and minimization measures. Before implementing these measures, the County would implement Mitigation Measures BIO-1 and BIO-2 in order to avoid and minimize impacts to plant, fish and wildlife species. MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-1: General Construction-related Mitigation Measures The following best management practices/avoidance and minimization measures would be used for protection of the biological resources within the BSA. • Worker Environmental Awareness Training (WEAT): Prior to the start of construction in each year, construction personnel shall be trained by a qualified biologist on all required avoidance and minimization measures as well as permit requirements. • Preconstruction surveys for all special status and common wildlife species shall be conducted within the Project area by a qualified biologist immediately prior to equipment or material staging, pruning/grubbing, or surface-disturbing activities. The qualified biologist shall search aquatic vegetation, the water’s surface, leaf litter, logs, snags, and other habitat features for special status and common wildlife species. If species are found, individuals shall be relocated outside of the Project area if the qualified biologist is permitted to do so by all regulatory agencies and determines that relocation is warranted. Although not expected, this includes dewatering activities. If water diversion systems are implemented, a qualified biologist shall be on site to relocate all fish, turtles, invertebrates, and other wildlife observed outside of the work area. • Prior to start of construction, temporary high visibility ESA fence shall be placed at the upstream and downstream ends of the Project Site and placed along the southern riparian area to exclude the ESA. The limits shall be staked by a qualified biologist. • The District shall require the contractor to prepare a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) for construction activities according to the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Construction General Permit as required under Section 402 of the Clean Water Act. The SWPPP shall identify water pollution control measures and construction-waste containment measures to be implemented during and after project construction, including but not limited to: o Trash generated by the Project shall be promptly and properly removed from the site daily. o Appropriate erosion control measures (e.g., fiber rolls, filter fences, hydroseeding of exposed soils, and mulching) shall be used on site to reduce siltation and runoff of contaminants into jurisdictional waters. Filter fences and mesh shall be of material that shall not entrap reptiles and amphibians. Fiber rolls shall not contain plastics of any 33 kind. Erosion control blankets shall be used as a last resort because of their tendency to biodegrade slowly and to trap reptiles and amphibians. o No erodible materials shall be deposited into watercourses. Brush, loose soils, or other debris material shall not be stockpiled within stream channels or adjacent to the basin. o Active construction areas shall be watered regularly. o Dredged sediments shall be managed during construction. o A hazardous materials management plan will describe the actions that shall be taken in the event of a spill that could potentially impact jurisdictional waters. Adequate spill containment materials, such as hazardous material absorbent pads and similar materials, shall be available on site at all times. The plan also shall incorporate preventive measures to be implemented (such as vehicle and equipment staging, cleaning, maintenance, and refueling) and contaminant (including fuel) management and storage. • All excavated steep-walled holes and trenches more than six inches deep shall be covered with plywood (or similar material) or provided with one or more escape ramps constructed of earth fill or wooden planks at the end of each work-day or 30 minutes prior to sunset, whichever occurs first. All steep-walled holes and trenches shall be inspected by the approved biologist each morning to ensure that no turtles or other wildlife has become entrapped. All construction pipes, culverts, similar structures, construction equipment, and construction debris left overnight shall be inspected for presence of wildlife by a WEAT-trained construction monitor prior to being moved. • All slash materials (limbs, branches, and other woody debris) resulting from tree removal activities shall be removed from the Project Site and properly disposed of at an off-site location. • Temporarily affected areas shall be restored to pre-Project conditions. Before October 31 and/or immediately after construction is complete, all exposed soils shall be stabilized to reduce the effects of erosion. MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-2: Invasive Species Prevention To prevent the accidental introduction of new invasive species into the Project Site during construction, the District will require that the Project construction contractor implement the following control measures: 1. Only certified noxious weed-free erosion control materials shall be used. All straw and seed material shall be certified as weed-free prior to being used at the Project Site. 2. Contractor shall wash all construction equipment prior to bringing it onto the job site. Inspection shall ensure that equipment arrives on site free of mud and seed-bearing material. 3. Any reseeding of disturbed soil areas and newly constructed slopes shall use an appropriate native seed mix as specified in the plans and specifications. 5.1 SPECIES-SPECIFIC AVOIDANCE AND MINIMIZATION MEASURES 34 5.1.1 Vegetation Fragrant fritillary (Fritillaria liliacea) There would be no decrease in the suitable habitat area along the sediment basin in which fragrant fritillary could be established. Although access ramps and training berms would be constructed, the operation of the sediment would not change. The expanded sediment basin’s slopes would be re-seeded with a native grass mix after construction but would remain in a similar condition as marginally suitable habitat for fragrant fritillary. Therefore, construction and operation of the Project would have no direct or indirect impact through destruction of habitat for fragrant fritillary. Measures to protect sensitive plant species are outlined in 4.0 Avoidance and Minimization Measures, and general protection measures for plants are included in Mitigation Measure BIO-3. MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-3: Riparian Vegetation Protection 1. A riparian protection zone shall be established around all established vegetation in the southern portion of the existing sediment basin, coincident with the most recent sediment clearing boundary, with the exception of those trees and soil necessary to remove for building the training berm. This boundary would be established on design sheets and plan sets, as well as with protective temporary fencing placed in the field. 2. A qualified restoration biologist or botanist will create a seed and plant palette appropriate for reestablishing impacted vegetation. 5.1.2 Western Bumble Bee The disturbance of the sediment basin itself and its northern banks and slopes could disturb bee and bee habitat. Additionally, although no focused surveys have been conducted to date, the site is within the range for the species, and the annual grassland areas with small mammal burrows provide potentially suitable underground nesting habitat. Impacts to western bumblebee habitat will be minimized and/or avoided by restoration of temporarily impacted areas with native plants, and through implementation Mitigation Measure BIO-2: Western Bumble Bee Mitigation Measures. To avoid impacts on the Western Bumble Bee, the following mitigation measure shall be implemented: MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-4: Western Bumble Bee Mitigation Measures 1. Preconstruction Survey: A qualified biologist shall conduct a preconstruction survey 30 days prior to the onset of work. The pre-construction survey effort shall be conducted for a minimum of one hour. If bumble bees of any species are observed, they shall be photographed for identification following the USFWS guidance in Standardized Bee Photography in the Survey Protocols for the Rusty Patched Bumble Bee (Bombus affinis) (USFWS 2019). If construction begins between March 1 and November 1, the ground shall also be searched during the survey for active bumble bee colonies. 2. No capture or handling of bumble bees is allowed without formal State take authorization. If individual western bumble bees are observed during preconstruction surveys, in consultation with CDFW, they shall be avoided to ensure no “take” occurs. This may require biological monitoring or avoidance buffers until the bees have left the work area. If western bumble bee colonies are identified, these colonies shall be demarcated with a flagged avoidance buffer, as determined by a qualified biologist and shall be avoided during the active season from March 1 35 through November 1, or until the qualified biologist, in consultation with CDFW, has determined that the colony is no longer active. All sightings of western bumble bee shall be reported to the CNDDB. 5.1.3 Fish The Project may require work within the active channel of Wildcat Creek or introduce sediment during construction. It is very unlikely or discountable that impacts to listed salmonids and sturgeon would occur due to: 1. The timing of the Project implementation (outside of the migration window). 2. Very rare occurrences of CCC coho, Chinook salmon, steelhead, and Green Sturgeon (only 1 salmonid documented in this area of Wildcat Creek in 10 years) (Pers. Comm. NMFS 2022). 3. Though the project does include disturbance and removal of vegetation that is currently holding sediment in place in the sediment basin, under existing conditions, vegetation is removed and sediment displaced during high flow events. Despite this, mitigation measures will be put in place to reduce the impacts of downstream sedimentation on species such as Green Sturgeon. Best Management Practices and Mitigation Measures would be in place to reduce any sediment effects. Mitigation Measure BIO-1 would reduce impacts from accidental spills of fuel, oils and chemicals, and Mitigation Measure BIO-5 would ensure that riparian plants would be used to the extent feasible to reduce erosion and associated turbidity impacts downstream of the Project area to protect aquatic species. MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-5: Best Management Practices for Fish The Project shall limit in-water construction to the period between June 1 and October 31 to avoid the spawning season. The Project proponent shall obtain and comply with the requirements of the Section 404 permit issued by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Programmatic Biological Opinion for steelhead issued by National Marine Fisheries Service. Implementation of these mitigation measures would ensure that the direct and indirect impacts of the Project are appropriately minimized. This would make these impacts less than significant with mitigation incorporated. 5.1.4 Western Pond Turtle If western pond turtle adults, young, or their nests are present during construction, they could be harmed by construction activities. In particular, work in the sediment basin and on its banks could result in direct impacts to individuals and nests. To avoid impacts on the Western Pond Turtle, the following avoidance and minimization measures shall be implemented: MITIGATION MEASURE BIO-6: Construction Monitoring for Western Pond Turtles 1. If any turtles or turtle nests are found during preconstruction surveys, a qualified and permitted biologist shall flag the site and determine whether construction activities can avoid affecting the nest. If the nest cannot be avoided, in consultation with CDFW, a no-disturbance buffer zone may be established around the nest until the young have left the nest. If weather conditions 36 prevent implementation of construction beyond two days after completion of turtle surveys, re- survey for this species shall be completed. 2. Once a temporary high visibility ESA fence is installed within the Project Site and all vegetation has been cleared, a designated construction monitor (trained by the qualified biologist), shall inspect the work area for western pond turtles anytime work activity ceases for two days or more. If a western pond turtle is observed by the construction monitor in the immediate work area, no work shall commence in the area of the sighting until the turtle has moved out of harm’s way or the qualified biologist has arrived at the site and relocated the turtle. 5.1.5 Nesting Birds Migratory birds, burrowing owl, raptors Burrowing owls, which are a species of special concern, may use the project site for nesting and foraging. Burrowing owls may be adversely affected if active nest sites are either removed or exposed to a substantial increase in noise or human presence during construction activities. See Mitigation measures above for Burrowing Owl. Most nesting birds are also protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA). Project-related disturbance resulting in the loss or abandonment of an active nest would be considered a potentially significant impact. To avoid impacts on nesting birds and raptors, Mitigation Measure BIO-7 shall be implemented. Mitigation Measure BIO-7: Migratory Birds and Raptors Construction Measures 1. To the extent feasible, tree removal shall be conducted outside the nesting season (which occurs between February 15 – August 31) for migratory birds and raptors. 2. A preconstruction nesting bird survey, shall be conducted by a qualified biologist prior to construction activities that take place during the nesting season (February 15 -August 31) including any removal of vegetation at the Project Site. If all Project work is conducted during this work window, preconstruction surveys would only be required for wintering burrowing owls and not nesting birds. The survey shall be conducted no more than 7 days prior to the start of construction. Buffers will be placed around any nests that are found during the survey, in consultation with CDFW. No work shall be conducted within the buffers until the qualified biologist has determined that the nesting attempt is complete. Buffers for songbird nests are generally on the order of 50 to 100 feet and for raptors on the order of 250 to 500 feet, with the precise distan ce determined by the qualified biologist conducting the preconstruction survey based on species, nest site characteristics, and the acclimation of the nesting birds to disturbance. 3. If Western Burrowing Owl burrows are found, a qualified biologist shall flag the site and in consultation with CDFW, determine whether construction activities can avoid affecting the nest. If the nest cannot be avoided, in consultation with CDFW, a no - disturbance buffer zone and monitoring plan would be established. 37 TABLE 2: GUIDELINES FOR ACTIVITIES AROUND OCCUPIED BURROWING OWL NESTS. Location Time of Year Level of Disturbance Low Med High Nesting sites April 1-Aug 15 200 meters 500 meters 500 meters Nesting sites Aug 16-Oct 15 200 meters 200 meters 500 meters Nesting sites Oct 16-Mar 31 50 meters 100 meters 500 meters 5.1.6 Hoary Bat, Other potential bat habitat Mature trees and annual grassland may provide suitable roosting and foraging habitat for the hoary bat and other native bat species. Native bat species may be adversely affected by project activities if active maternity roost sites are removed or exposed to substantial increase in noise or human presence during project construction activities. Although the hoary bat is not listed under the CESA, it is included in CDFW’s Special Animals list. Species on this list are considered to be those of greatest conservation need by the CDFW. Project related disturbance resulting in the loss or abandonment of an active roost would be considered a potentially significant impact. Project construction could have direct impact on roosting bats, and increased noise and human presence from project construction could result in indirect impacts on roosting bats in the BSA through modifications to behavior resulting in lower breeding success, including the loss or abandonment of an active roost. The removal of specific trees could impact bats if active roosts are present in those trees. To avoid impacts on roosting bats and maternity colonies, the following avoidance and minimization measures shall be implemented: Mitigation Measure BIO-8: Roosting Bats and Maternity Colonies Mitigation Measures 1. Roosting bat habitat assessments and preconstruction surveys shall be conducted to ensure the absence of roosting bats before construction, as detailed below. Prior to the start of construction, a bat habitat assessment shall be conducted to identify suitable bat roosting habitat including bridges, snags, rotten stumps, and trees with broken limbs, exfoliating bark, cavities, etc. This shall be done within 30 days. Potential roosting habitat shall be avoided to the maximum extent practicable. If no suitable roost sites are identified, no further minimization measures are necessary. 2. If suitable roosting habitat is identified and shall be disturbed by presence and noise of equipment and workers for more than two hours, a qualified biologist shall be present to monitor the bat roosting habitat and will stop work if any disturbance to bats is detected and contact CDFW for further guidance. 3. If suitable roosting habitat is identified and shall be removed by the Project, such as from tree removal, a qualified biologist shall survey potential suitable roost sites immediately prior to the removal. If any sign of roosting bats or observation of individual bats is observed, the roost shall be removed in coordination with CDFW or according to permit conditions. Typical removal methods include first removing nonhabitat features such as limbs smaller than 3 inches in 38 diameter. The tree is left overnight to allow any bats using the tree/snag to find another roost during their nocturnal activity period. A qualified biologist would survey the trees/snags a second time the following morning prior to felling and removal. Implementation of these mitigation measures would ensure that the direct and indirect impacts of the Project are appropriately minimized. This would make these impacts less than significant with mitigation incorporated. 6.0 REFERENCES California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). 2020. California Natural Diversity Database: Rarefind 5. Available online at: http://www.dfg.ca.gov/biogeodata/cnddb/mapsanddata.asp . California Department of Fish and Wildlife. County of San Diego Sanitation District: Los Coches Sanitary Sewer Improvements from Maintenance Hole LSMH0555 to LSMH0599 (PROJECT) MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION (MND) SCH# 2020060316, San Diego County. Viewed online at: https://files.ceqanet.opr.ca.gov/262563- 2/attachment/JdNjwNIGZUMxLvGhBE-oU3- Hitfct5fg3Gu1KJs7xC9sUBriqB3bpvU70eA0PcqTmu6BsEyiQ208guRn0. Accessed: Feb. 21, 2022. California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Zmay 3-Lot Minor Subdivision, Grading Permit and Resource Management Permits, Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration, SCH #2020019052, San Mateo County. Viewed online at: https://files.ceqanet.opr.ca.gov/258585- 2/attachment/ovjpUMxydIsFU2FBYNJ4q4hUwfe_Cgf_zGT_F6Uc9CGJSn6of14SoqiCM3KZ_ gXs-0Vnam5jQZjx6oNn0. Accessed: Feb. 21, 2022. California Department of Fish and Wildlife. 2005. California Wildlife Habitat Relationships System. California Department of Fish and Wildlife - California Interagency Wildlife Task Group. Available at: https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=1659#:~:text=Nest%20placed%20n ear%20top%20of,meets%20water%20requirements%20from%20prey. Accessed March 13, 2024. 39 California Native Plant Society (CNPS). 2020. Online Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants of California. Search for the Niles and Altamont Quadrangles. Available online at: http://www.cnps.org/cnps/rareplants/inventory/. Collins, L. M.; Grossinger, R. M.; McKee, L. J. .; Riley, A.; Collins, J. N. 2001. Wildcat Creek Watershed: A Scientific Study of Physical Processes and Land Use Effects. SFEI Contribution No. 363. San Francisco Estuary Institute: Richmond, CA. Federal Register. 2000. Designated critical habitat: critical habitat for 19 evolutionarily significant units of salmon and steelhead in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and California. 7764, Vol. 65, No. 32, Rules and Regulations. Final rule. Department of Comm erce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and National Marine Fisheries Service, Wednesday, February 16, 2000. Federal Register. 2006. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants: Threatened Status for Southern Distinct Population Segment of North American Green Sturgeon. 17757, Vol. 71, No. 67, Rules and Regulations. Final Rule. Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and National Marine Fisheries Service, Wednesday, April 7, 2006. Leidy, R.A.; G.S. Becker; B.N. Harvey (2005). Historical distribution and current status of steelhead/rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) in streams of the San Francisco Estuary, California (PDF) (Report). Oakland, California: Center for Ecosystem Management and Restoration. p. 30. Retrieved 2012-02-02. Miles S. R. and Charles B. Goudey. 1997. Ecological Subregions of California. United States Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Region. Publication R5-EM- TP-005. San Francisco, CA. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration National Marine Fisheries Services (NOAA). 1996. NOAA Technical Memorandum NMFS-NWFSC-27, Status Review of West Coast Steelhead from Washington, Idaho, Oregon, and California. http://www.nwfsc.noaa.gov/publications/techmemos/tm27/tm27.htm Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). 2020. Official Soil Series Descriptions. https://soilseries.sc.egov.usda.gov/ NHC. 2011. Wildcat Creek Fish Ladder Retro-fit: Existing Conditions Report. National Marine Fisheries Service. 2009. Designation of Critical Habitat for the threatened Southern Distinct Population Segment of North American Green Sturgeon Final Biological Report. https://repository.library.noaa.gov/view/noaa/18683. Accessed Februar y 27, 2024. Personal Communication between Gretchen Umlauf and with NOAA Fisheries Analyst. 2022 a. 40 Personal Communication between Ariel Frink and with Gus Amirzehni. 2022b. United States Department of Agriculture. (USDA). 2006. Land Resource Regions and Major Land Resource Areas of the United States, the Caribbean, and the Pacific. United States Department of Agriculture Handbook 296. Urban Creeks Council (26 April 2010). Wildcat Creek Watershed Restoration Action Plan (PDF) (Report). Retrieved 4 February 2012. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2019. Survey Protocols for the Rusty Patched Bumble Bee. Available online at: https://www.fws.gov/sites/default/files/documents/Survey_Protocols_RPBB_12April2019 .pdf USFWS. 2020. Information for Planning and Conservation. Available online at: https://ecos.fws.gov/ipac/. USACE. 2000. Draft Section 1135 Investigations for Wildcat Creeks San Francisco Wildcat Creek, WES Study Report Vollmar. 2003. Delineation of Aquatic Features Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project. Western Monarch County. 2022. Find an Overwintering Site. Available online at: https://www.westernmonarchcount.org/find-an-overwintering-site-near-you/ Web https://thewatershedproject.org/bringing-steelhead-to-east-bay-streams/ APPENDIX A. Wildcat Creek Fish Passage Project – Observed Plant Species Willow spp. Water Horsetail Curly dock Cyperus Willow general Silver poplar Elm leaf blackberry Appendix B. Wildcat Creek Project – Wildlife observations November 1st Site Visit – Bird Observations 2:30 PM, 57 Degrees. Cloudy skies, rain earlier in the day Birds Observed: - American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) - Common Pigeon (Columba livia) - Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura) - Cooper’s Hawk (Accipiter cooperii) - House Finch (Amadina erthrocephala) - Gull, likely Common or Herring (Larinae) - White-crowned sparrow (Zonotrichia leucophrys) - American Bushtit (Psaltriparus minimus) APPENDIX C. Special Status Species Special status species are indicated as such in the database references and CNDDB searches. TABLE C1: SPECIAL STATUS WILDLIFE SPECIES IN VICINITY OF PROJECT SITE (CNDDB 2022). SPECIES STATUS FED/STATE HABITAT OCCURRENCE ON THE PROJECT SITE Special Status Species that May Occur Invertebrates Western bumble bee (Bombus occidentalis) --/-- Occupy a wide range of habitats; prairies, meadows, mountainous ranges, savannas, agricultural landscapes, wetlands, and even urbanized areas. No critical habitat designated. May occur. Wildlife Western pond turtle (Clemmys marmorata marmorata) --/CSC Aquatic turtle of ponds, marshes, rivers, streams, and irrigation ditches with aquatic vegetation. Needs basking sites and suitable upland habitat for egg-laying (sandy banks or grassy open fields). Permanent and intermittent waters of rivers and creeks. No critical habitat designated. May occur. Hoary bat (Lasuirus cinereus) --/-- Prefers open habitats with access to trees for cover and open areas or habitat edges for feeding. Roosts in dense foliage of medium to large trees. No critical habitat designated. May occur. Birds Black-crowned night-heron (Nycticorax nycticorax) [Nesting] --/-- Colonial nester, usually in trees but occasionally in tule patches. Rookery sites are located adjacent to foraging areas including lake margins, mud- bordered bays and marshy spots. May occur. SPECIES STATUS FED/STATE HABITAT OCCURRENCE ON THE PROJECT SITE Habitat includes fresh/salt water, rivers Burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia) BCC/CSC Overwintering in the area, found in open dry annual or perennial grasslands, deserts and scrublands characterized by low growing vegetation. May occur. Cooper’s hawk (Accipiter cooperii) [nesting] --/WL Nests primarily in deciduous riparian forests; forages in open woodlands May occur. Double-crested cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus) [rookery site] --/WL Colonial nester on Coastal cliffs and offshore islands and along lake margins in the interior of the state. Nests along coast on sequestered islets, usually on ground with sloping surface, or in tall trees along lake margins. May occur. Northern harrier (Circus cyaneus) [Nesting] --/SCC Coastal salt marsh and freshwater marsh; nests and forages in grasslands; nests on ground in shrubby vegetation, usually at marsh edge. May occur. Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) [Nesting] --/WL Breeds in northern California from the Cascade Ranges south to Lake Tahoe, and along the coast south to the Bay Area. Associated strictly with large, fish-bearing waters, primarily in Ponderosa pine through mixed conifer habitats. Common around major estuaries and salt marshes, large lakes/rivers. May occur. Short-eared owl (Asio flammeus) [Nesting] --/CSC Found in marshes, both freshwater and salt; lowland meadows; irrigated alfalfa fields. Tule patches/full grass needed for nesting and daytime seclusion. Nests on dry ground in a depression concealed in vegetation. May occur. SPECIES STATUS FED/STATE HABITAT OCCURRENCE ON THE PROJECT SITE Snowy egret (Egretta thula) --/-- Colonial nester with nest sites situated in protected beds of dense tules. Rookery sites are situated close to foraging areas. Found in marshes, tidal-flats, streams, wet meadows, and borders of lakes. May occur. White-tailed kite (Elanus caeruleus) [nesting] --/CFP Open grassland and agricultural areas throughout Central California. They have been sighted along the SF Bay and have been seen along WC creek corridor. No critical habitat designated. May occur. Fish Green Sturgeon, Southern DPS (Acipenser medirostris) Threatened Critical Habitat is designated for Green Sturgeon approximately 1 mile downstream from the BSA. The project site does not provide suitable habitat for Green Sturgeon, which are mostly seen from inshore waters to 200 feet, primarily in the seawater and mixing zones of bays and estuaries. Likely not present. However, project activities could impact habitat downstream. Central California Coastal Steelhead (O. mykiss) FE/CE Steelhead spawn in streams that are narrow, shallow, clear, and cold with a strong upwelling of water through the gravel. No critical habitat designated on Wildcat Creek. May occur. Seasonally occurs during migration and winter/spring rearing. Only occurs when fish passage is possible. Special Status Species Likely not Present Invertebrates Obscure bumble bee (Bombus caliginosus) --/-- Found in Coastal areas from Santa Barbara County north to Washington State. Likely not present. Bridge’s Coast Range shoulderband (Helminthoglypta nickliniana bridgesi) --/-- Inhabits open hillsides of Alameda and Contra Costa Counties. Tends to colonize under tall grasses and weeds Likely not present. SPECIES STATUS FED/STATE HABITAT OCCURRENCE ON THE PROJECT SITE Monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) --/CR Winter roost sites extend along the coast from northern Mendocino to Baja California, Mexico. Roosts located in wind-protected tree groves (eucalyptus, Monterey pine, cypress) with nectar and water sources nearby. Nearest roost site is 2.2 miles to the north (Western Monarch Count 2022). Likely not present. Wildlife California Red-Legged Frog (Rana draytonii) --/CSC Moderate suitable habitat is present in Wildcat and San Pablo Creeks. Inhabitant of moist, lower elevation forests and requires both aquatic breeding habitats and terrestrial foraging habitats. The frogs breed in ponds, ditches, springs, marshes, margins of large lakes, and slow- moving portions of rivers Likely not present. No CNDDB occurrences are documented within five miles of the project area. Pallid bat (Antrozous pallidus) --/CSC Roosts primarily in oak woodland and ponderosa pine habitats; forages in open areas. Likely not present. This species only occurs in arid or semi-arid habitats, of which there are none on the Project site. Salt marsh harvest mouse (Reithrodontomys raviventris) FE/CE,CFP Inhabits saline emergent wetlands in the San Francisco Bay and its tributaries. Pickleweed is the primary habitat. Likely not present. This species only occurs in salt marshes, of which there are none on the Project site. Salt-marsh wandering shrew (Sorex vagrans halicoetes) --/CSC Found in salt marshes on the south end of San Francisco Bay in medium high marsh 6-8 feet above sea level where abundant driftwood is scattered among pickleweed (Salicornia). Likely not present. This species only occurs in salt marshes, of which there are none on the Project site. San Pablo vole (Microtus californicus sanpabloensis) --/CSC Found in salt marshes of San Pablo Creek on the south shore of San Pablo Bay. Constructs burrow in soft Likely not present. This species only occurs in salt marshes, of which there are none on the Project site. SPECIES STATUS FED/STATE HABITAT OCCURRENCE ON THE PROJECT SITE soil. Feeds on grasses, sedges and herbs. Forms a network of runways leading from the burrow Birds Ridgway’s (California clapper) rail (Rallus obsoletus obsoletus) FE/CE,CFP Found in saltwater marshes traversed by tidal sloughs in the vicinity of San Francisco Bay; associated with abundant growths of pickleweed; feeds on mollusks obtained from mud bottomed sloughs. Likely not present. This species only occurs in salt marshes, of which there are none on the Project site. California black rail (Laterallus jamaicensis coturniculus) BCC/CT,CFP Mainly inhabits saltmarshes bordering larger bays. Occurs in tidal salt marsh with dense growths of pickleweed; also occurs in freshwater and brackish marshes Likely not present. No marsh habitat in project site. San Pablo Song Sparrow (Melospiza melodia samuelis) BCC/CSC Tidal, brackish or salt marshes inSan Pablo Bay. Likely not present. This species only occurs in tidal salt marshes, of which there are none on the Project site. Saltmarsh common yellowthroat (Geothlypis trichas sinuosa) --/-- Suitable freshwater and salt marshes with nearby willow thickets. Nests in marshy areas that are usually higher off the ground, where they are safer from flooding. Likely not present. This species only occurs in tidal salt marshes, of which there are none on the Project site. Fish Longfin Smelt (Spirinchus thaleichthys) FC/CT, CSC In California, Longfin Smelt have been commonly collected from San Francisco Bay, Eel River, Humboldt Bay and Klamath River. As they mature in the fall, adults found throughout San Francisco Bay migrate to brackish or freshwater in Suisun Bay, Montezuma Slough, and the lower reaches of the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers. Spawning probably takes place in freshwater Likely not present. No occurrences in WC area, typically found in perennial larger rivers. Sources Status Codes Occurrence 1 California Natural Diversity Database (CDFW 2020) E – Endangered, T – Threatened, R – Rare, SS – Special Status, SSC (or CSC) – Species of Special Concern, WL – Watch List, Present: The species has been reported or is known to occur in the survey area or along Wildcat Creek in the Project Area - immediately adjacent to the survey area. 2 Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants of California (CNPS 2020) 1A – Presumed extirpated in California and either rare or extinct elsewhere, Likely to Occur: There are no reported occurrences in the survey area, but the species has been reported within five miles of the site and good to high quality habitat is present in the survey area or along the Project Area immediately adjacent to the survey area. 3 Information for Planning and Conservation (USFWS 2020) 1B – Rare, threatened, or endangered in California and elsewhere, May Occur: There are no reported occurrences in the survey area, but the species has been reported within five miles of the site and moderate quality or limited habitat is present in the survey area or along the Project Area immediately adjacent to the survey area. 2B – Rare, threatened, or endangered in California, but more common elsewhere, 4 – Limited distribution, watch list, Likely Not Present: There are no reported occurrences in the survey area, but the species has been reported within five miles of the site but the habitat quality is poor or very limited within the survey area or along the Project Area immediately adjacent to the survey area. This category also includes species with no suitable breeding habitat, that may utilize the site for a limited amount of time during migration or as foraging habitat. .1 – Seriously threatened in California (more than 80% of occurrences threatened / high degree and immediacy of threat) .2 – Fairly threatened in California (20 to 80% occurrences threatened / moderate degree and immediacy of threat) .3—Not very threatened in California (less than 20% of occurrences threatened/low to no immediate threats) TABLE C2: SPECIAL STATUS PLANT SPECIES IN PROJECT VICINITY (CNDDB 2022). SPECIES STATUS FED/STATE/CNPS2 HABITAT OCCURRENCE ON THE PROJECT SITE Special Status Plants that May Occur Fragrant fritillary (Fritillaria liliacea) --/--/1B.1 Coastal scrub, valley and foothill grassland, Coastal prairie, often on ultramafic soils. 3-410 m. May occur. Has been found in Contra Costa County, with the nearest sightings in Point Richmond. Special Status Plants Likely not Present Pallid manzanita (Arctostaphylos pallida) FT/CE/1B.1 Broadleaf upland forest, closed-cone coniferous forest, chaparral, cismontane woodland, and Coastal Likely not present. Found in East Bay Hills, including Contra Costa County scrub. Grows on uplifted marine terraces on siliceous shale or thin chert. May require fire. 180-460 m Alkali Milk-vetch (Astragalus tener var. tener) --/--/1B.2 Inhabits low ground, alkali flats and flooded land in valley and foothill grasslands or in playas or vernal pools. 1- 170 m. Likely not present. Coastal bluff morning-glory (Calystegia purpurata ssp. saxicola) --/--/1B.2 Found Coastal dunes, Coastal scrub, Coastal bluff scrub and North coniferous forest. 5-430 m. Likely not present. No habitat. Soft salty bird’s beak (Chloropyron molle ssp. molle) FT/Rare/1B.1 Found in Coastal salt marsh. 0-5 m. Likely not present. No habitat. Western leatherwood (Dirca occidentalis) --/--/1B.2 On brushy slopes and mesic sites mostly in mixed evergreen and foothill woodland communities. 30- 550 m. Likely not present. No habitat. Diablo helianthela (Helianthela castenea) --/--/1B.2 Broadleaved upland forest, chaparral, cismontane woodland, Coastal scrub, riparian woodland, valley and foothill grassland. Usually in chaparral/oak woodland interface in rocky, azonal soils. Often in partial shade. 25-1150 m. Likely not present. Loma Prita hoita (Hoita strobilina) --/--/1B.1 Found in mesic sites and in serpentine within chaparral, cismontane woodland, and riparian woodland. 60-975 m. Likely not present. Known for occasional occurrences in SF Bay Area, but no adequate habitat is present on the proejct site. Santa Cruz tarplant (Holocarpha macradenia) FT/CE/1B.1 Sandy soil or sandy clay in Coastal prairie and valley and foothill grassland. 10-260 m. Likely not present. California seablite (Suaeda californica) FE/--/1B.1 Margins of Coastal salt marshes. 0-5 m. Likely not present. No habitat. Suisun Marsh aster (Symphyotrichum lentum) --/--/1B.2 Both brackish and freshwater marshes and swamps. Endemic to the marshes of Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta. 0- 3 m. Likely not present. No habitat. Saline clover (Trifolium depauperatum var. hydrophilum) --/--/1B.2 Found in mesic alkaline sites in marshes and swamps, valley and foothill grassland and vernal pools. 0-300 m. Likely not present. No habitat. Present ins alt marshes Sources Status Codes Occurrence 1 California Natural Diversity Database (CDFW 2020) E – Endangered, T – Threatened, R – Rare, SS – Special Status, SSC (or CSC) – Species of Special Concern, WL – Watch List, Present: The species has been reported or is known to occur in the survey area or along Wildcat Creek in the Project Area - immediately adjacent to the survey area. 2 Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants of California (CNPS 2020) 1A – Presumed extirpated in California and either rare or extinct elsewhere, Likely to Occur: There are no reported occurrences in the survey area, but the species has been reported within five miles of the site and good to high quality habitat is present in the survey area or along the Project Area immediately adjacent to the survey area. 3 Information for Planning and Conservation (USFWS 2020) 1B – Rare, threatened, or endangered in California and elsewhere, May Occur: There are no reported occurrences in the survey area, but the species has been reported within five miles of the site and moderate quality or limited habitat is present in the survey area or along the Project Area immediately adjacent to the survey area. 2B – Rare, threatened, or endangered in California, but more common elsewhere, 4 – Limited distribution, watch list, Likely Not Present: There are no reported occurrences in the survey area, but the species has been reported within five miles of the site but the habitat quality is poor or very limited within the survey area or along the Project Area immediately adjacent to the survey area. This category also includes species with no suitable breeding habitat, that may utilize the site for a limited amount of time during migration or as foraging habitat. .1 – Seriously threatened in California (more than 80% of occurrences threatened / high degree and immediacy of threat) .2 – Fairly threatened in California (20 to 80% occurrences threatened / moderate degree and immediacy of threat) .3—Not very threatened in California (less than 20% of occurrences threatened/low to no immediate threats) APPENDIX D. CNDDB Special Status Species Map IPaC resource list This report is an automatically generated list of species and other resources such as critical habitat (collectively referred to as trust resources) under the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's (USFWS) jurisdiction that are known or expected to be on or near the project area referenced below. The list may also include trust resources that occur outside of the project area, but that could potentially be directly or indirectly aected by activities in the project area. However, determining the likelihood and extent of eects a project may have on trust resources typically requires gathering additional site-specic (e.g., vegetation/species surveys) and project-specic (e.g., magnitude and timing of proposed activities) information. Below is a summary of the project information you provided and contact information for the USFWS oce(s) with jurisdiction in the dened project area. Please read the introduction to each section that follows (Endangered Species, Migratory Birds, USFWS Facilities, and NWI Wetlands) for additional information applicable to the trust resources addressed in that section. Location Contra Costa County, California Local oce Sacramento Fish And Wildlife Oce  (916) 414-6600  (916) 414-6713 U.S. Fish & Wildlife ServiceIPaC 5/6/24, 3:36 PM IPaC: Explore Location resources https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/location/F2DE3T365RFA5LSCPWFUPFNR4E/resources 1/21 Federal Building 2800 Cottage Way, Room W-2605 Sacramento, CA 95825-1846 5/6/24, 3:36 PM IPaC: Explore Location resources https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/location/F2DE3T365RFA5LSCPWFUPFNR4E/resources 2/21 Endangered species This resource list is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an analysis of project level impacts. The primary information used to generate this list is the known or expected range of each species. Additional areas of inuence (AOI) for species are also considered. An AOI includes areas outside of the species range if the species could be indirectly aected by activities in that area (e.g., placing a dam upstream of a sh population even if that sh does not occur at the dam site, may indirectly impact the species by reducing or eliminating water ow downstream). Because species can move, and site conditions can change, the species on this list are not guaranteed to be found on or near the project area. To fully determine any potential eects to species, additional site-specic and project-specic information is often required. Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act requires Federal agencies to "request of the Secretary information whether any species which is listed or proposed to be listed may be present in the area of such proposed action" for any project that is conducted, permitted, funded, or licensed by any Federal agency. A letter from the local oce and a species list which fullls this requirement can only be obtained by requesting an ocial species list from either the Regulatory Review section in IPaC (see directions below) or from the local eld oce directly. For project evaluations that require USFWS concurrence/review, please return to the IPaC website and request an ocial species list by doing the following: 1. Draw the project location and click CONTINUE. 2. Click DEFINE PROJECT. 3. Log in (if directed to do so). 4. Provide a name and description for your project. 5. Click REQUEST SPECIES LIST. Listed species and their critical habitats are managed by the Ecological Services Program of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the sheries division of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA Fisheries ). Species and critical habitats under the sole responsibility of NOAA Fisheries are not shown on this list. Please contact NOAA Fisheries for species under their jurisdiction. 1. Species listed under the Endangered Species Act are threatened or endangered; IPaC also shows species that are candidates, or proposed, for listing. See the listing status page for more information. IPaC only shows species that are regulated by USFWS (see FAQ). 1 2 5/6/24, 3:36 PM IPaC: Explore Location resources https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/location/F2DE3T365RFA5LSCPWFUPFNR4E/resources 3/21 2. NOAA Fisheries, also known as the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), is an oce of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration within the Department of Commerce. The following species are potentially aected by activities in this location: Mammals Birds Reptiles NAME STATUS Salt Marsh Harvest Mouse Reithrodontomys raviventris Wherever found No critical habitat has been designated for this species. https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/613 Endangered NAME STATUS California Least Tern Sternula antillarum browni Wherever found No critical habitat has been designated for this species. https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/8104 Endangered California Ridgway''s Rail Rallus obsoletus obsoletus Wherever found No critical habitat has been designated for this species. https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/4240 Endangered Western Snowy Plover Charadrius nivosus nivosus There is nal critical habitat for this species.Your location does not overlap the critical habitat. https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/8035 Threatened Yellow-billed Cuckoo Coccyzus americanus There is nal critical habitat for this species.Your location does not overlap the critical habitat. https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/3911 Threatened NAME STATUS 5/6/24, 3:36 PM IPaC: Explore Location resources https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/location/F2DE3T365RFA5LSCPWFUPFNR4E/resources 4/21 Amphibians Fishes Insects Alameda Whipsnake (=striped Racer) Masticophis lateralis euryxanthus Wherever found There is nal critical habitat for this species.Your location does not overlap the critical habitat. https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/5524 Threatened Northwestern Pond Turtle Actinemys marmorata Wherever found No critical habitat has been designated for this species. https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/1111 Proposed Threatened NAME STATUS California Red-legged Frog Rana draytonii Wherever found There is nal critical habitat for this species.Your location does not overlap the critical habitat. https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/2891 Threatened Foothill Yellow-legged Frog Rana boylii No critical habitat has been designated for this species. https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/5133 Threatened NAME STATUS Tidewater Goby Eucyclogobius newberryi Wherever found There is nal critical habitat for this species.Your location does not overlap the critical habitat. https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/57 Endangered NAME STATUS Monarch Buttery Danaus plexippus Wherever found No critical habitat has been designated for this species. https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/9743 Candidate 5/6/24, 3:36 PM IPaC: Explore Location resources https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/location/F2DE3T365RFA5LSCPWFUPFNR4E/resources 5/21 Flowering Plants Critical habitats Potential eects to critical habitat(s) in this location must be analyzed along with the endangered species themselves. There are no critical habitats at this location. You are still required to determine if your project(s) may have eects on all above listed species. Bald & Golden Eagles NAME STATUS Lassics Lupine Lupinus constancei There is nal critical habitat for this species.Your location does not overlap the critical habitat. https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/7976 Endangered Pallid Manzanita Arctostaphylos pallida Wherever found No critical habitat has been designated for this species. https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/8292 Threatened Santa Cruz Tarplant Holocarpha macradenia Wherever found There is nal critical habitat for this species.Your location does not overlap the critical habitat. https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/6832 Threatened Bald and golden eagles are protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act . Any person or organization who plans or conducts activities that may result in impacts to bald or golden eagles, or their habitats , should follow appropriate regulations and consider implementing appropriate conservation measures, as described in the links below. Specically, please review the "Supplemental Information on Migratory Birds and Eagles". 1 2 3 5/6/24, 3:36 PM IPaC: Explore Location resources https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/location/F2DE3T365RFA5LSCPWFUPFNR4E/resources 6/21 There are likely bald eagles present in your project area. For additional information on bald eagles, refer to Bald Eagle Nesting and Sensitivity to Human Activity For guidance on when to schedule activities or implement avoidance and minimization measures to reduce impacts to migratory birds on your list, see the PROBABILITY OF PRESENCE SUMMARY below to see when these birds are most likely to be present and breeding in your project area. BREEDING SEASON Probability of Presence Summary The graphs below provide our best understanding of when birds of concern are most likely to be present in your project area. This information can be used to tailor and schedule your project activities to avoid or minimize impacts to birds. Please make sure you read "Supplemental Information on Migratory Birds and Eagles", specically the FAQ section titled "Proper Interpretation and Use of Your Migratory Bird Report" before using or attempting to interpret this report. Probability of Presence () Additional information can be found using the following links: Eagle Management https://www.fws.gov/program/eagle-management Measures for avoiding and minimizing impacts to birds https://www.fws.gov/library/collections/avoiding-and-minimizing-incidental-take- migratory-birds Nationwide conservation measures for birds https://www.fws.gov/sites/default/les/documents/nationwide-standard-conservation- measures.pdf Supplemental Information for Migratory Birds and Eagles in IPaC https://www.fws.gov/media/supplemental-information-migratory-birds-and-bald-and- golden-eagles-may-occur-project-action NAME Bald Eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus This is not a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) in this area, but warrants attention because of the Eagle Act or for potential susceptibilities in oshore areas from certain types of development or activities. Breeds Jan 1 to Aug 31 Golden Eagle Aquila chrysaetos This is not a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) in this area, but warrants attention because of the Eagle Act or for potential susceptibilities in oshore areas from certain types of development or activities. https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/1680 Breeds Jan 1 to Aug 31 5/6/24, 3:36 PM IPaC: Explore Location resources https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/location/F2DE3T365RFA5LSCPWFUPFNR4E/resources 7/21 no data survey eort breeding season probability of presence Each green bar represents the bird's relative probability of presence in the 10km grid cell(s) your project overlaps during a particular week of the year. (A year is represented as 12 4- week months.) A taller bar indicates a higher probability of species presence. The survey eort (see below) can be used to establish a level of condence in the presence score. One can have higher condence in the presence score if the corresponding survey eort is also high. How is the probability of presence score calculated? The calculation is done in three steps: 1. The probability of presence for each week is calculated as the number of survey events in the week where the species was detected divided by the total number of survey events for that week. For example, if in week 12 there were 20 survey events and the Spotted Towhee was found in 5 of them, the probability of presence of the Spotted Towhee in week 12 is 0.25. 2. To properly present the pattern of presence across the year, the relative probability of presence is calculated. This is the probability of presence divided by the maximum probability of presence across all weeks. For example, imagine the probability of presence in week 20 for the Spotted Towhee is 0.05, and that the probability of presence at week 12 (0.25) is the maximum of any week of the year. The relative probability of presence on week 12 is 0.25/0.25 = 1; at week 20 it is 0.05/0.25 = 0.2. 3. The relative probability of presence calculated in the previous step undergoes a statistical conversion so that all possible values fall between 0 and 10, inclusive. This is the probability of presence score. To see a bar's probability of presence score, simply hover your mouse cursor over the bar. Breeding Season () Yellow bars denote a very liberal estimate of the time-frame inside which the bird breeds across its entire range. If there are no yellow bars shown for a bird, it does not breed in your project area. Survey Eort () Vertical black lines superimposed on probability of presence bars indicate the number of surveys performed for that species in the 10km grid cell(s) your project area overlaps. The number of surveys is expressed as a range, for example, 33 to 64 surveys. To see a bar's survey eort range, simply hover your mouse cursor over the bar. No Data () A week is marked as having no data if there were no survey events for that week. Survey Timeframe Surveys from only the last 10 years are used in order to ensure delivery of currently relevant information. The exception to this is areas o the Atlantic coast, where bird returns are based on all years of available data, since data in these areas is currently much more sparse. 5/6/24, 3:36 PM IPaC: Explore Location resources https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/location/F2DE3T365RFA5LSCPWFUPFNR4E/resources 8/21 SPECIES JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC Bald Eagle Non-BCC Vulnerable Golden Eagle Non-BCC Vulnerable What does IPaC use to generate the potential presence of bald and golden eagles in my specied location? The potential for eagle presence is derived from data provided by the Avian Knowledge Network (AKN). The AKN data is based on a growing collection of survey, banding, and citizen science datasets and is queried and ltered to return a list of those birds reported as occurring in the 10km grid cell(s) which your project intersects, and that have been identied as warranting special attention because they are a BCC species in that area, an eagle (Eagle Act requirements may apply). To see a list of all birds potentially present in your project area, please visit the Rapid Avian Information Locator (RAIL) Tool. What does IPaC use to generate the probability of presence graphs of bald and golden eagles in my specied location? The Migratory Bird Resource List is comprised of USFWS Birds of Conservation Concern (BCC) and other species that may warrant special attention in your project location. The migratory bird list generated for your project is derived from data provided by the Avian Knowledge Network (AKN). The AKN data is based on a growing collection of survey, banding, and citizen science datasets and is queried and ltered to return a list of those birds reported as occurring in the 10km grid cell(s) which your project intersects, and that have been identied as warranting special attention because they are a BCC species in that area, an eagle (Eagle Act requirements may apply), or a species that has a particular vulnerability to oshore activities or development. Again, the Migratory Bird Resource list includes only a subset of birds that may occur in your project area. It is not representative of all birds that may occur in your project area. To get a list of all birds potentially present in your project area, please visit the Rapid Avian Information Locator (RAIL) Tool. What if I have eagles on my list? If your project has the potential to disturb or kill eagles, you may need to obtain a permit to avoid violating the Eagle Act should such impacts occur. Please contact your local Fish and Wildlife Service Field Oce if you have questions. Migratory birds Certain birds are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act . 1 2 5/6/24, 3:36 PM IPaC: Explore Location resources https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/location/F2DE3T365RFA5LSCPWFUPFNR4E/resources 9/21 The birds listed below are birds of particular concern either because they occur on the USFWS Birds of Conservation Concern (BCC) list or warrant special attention in your project location. To learn more about the levels of concern for birds on your list and how this list is generated, see the FAQ below. This is not a list of every bird you may nd in this location, nor a guarantee that every bird on this list will be found in your project area. To see exact locations of where birders and the general public have sighted birds in and around your project area, visit the E-bird data mapping tool (Tip: enter your location, desired date range and a species on your list). For projects that occur o the Atlantic Coast, additional maps and models detailing the relative occurrence and abundance of bird species on your list are available. Links to additional information about Atlantic Coast birds, and other important information about your migratory bird list, including how to properly interpret and use your migratory bird report, can be found below. For guidance on when to schedule activities or implement avoidance and minimization measures to reduce impacts to migratory birds on your list, see the PROBABILITY OF PRESENCE SUMMARY below to see when these birds are most likely to be present and breeding in your project area. BREEDING SEASON Any person or organization who plans or conducts activities that may result in impacts to migratory birds, eagles, and their habitats should follow appropriate regulations and consider implementing appropriate conservation measures, as described in the links below. Specically, please review the "Supplemental Information on Migratory Birds and Eagles". 1. The Migratory Birds Treaty Act of 1918. 2. The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act of 1940. Additional information can be found using the following links: Eagle Management https://www.fws.gov/program/eagle-management Measures for avoiding and minimizing impacts to birds https://www.fws.gov/library/collections/avoiding-and-minimizing-incidental-take- migratory-birds Nationwide conservation measures for birds https://www.fws.gov/sites/default/les/ documents/nationwide-standard-conservation-measures.pdf Supplemental Information for Migratory Birds and Eagles in IPaC https://www.fws.gov/media/supplemental-information-migratory-birds-and-bald-and- golden-eagles-may-occur-project-action 3 NAME Allen's Hummingbird Selasphorus sasin This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska. https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/9637 Breeds Feb 1 to Jul 15 5/6/24, 3:36 PM IPaC: Explore Location resources https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/location/F2DE3T365RFA5LSCPWFUPFNR4E/resources 10/21 Bald Eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus This is not a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) in this area, but warrants attention because of the Eagle Act or for potential susceptibilities in oshore areas from certain types of development or activities. Breeds Jan 1 to Aug 31 Belding's Savannah Sparrow Passerculus sandwichensis beldingi This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) only in particular Bird Conservation Regions (BCRs) in the continental USA https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/8 Breeds Apr 1 to Aug 15 Black Oystercatcher Haematopus bachmani This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska. https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/9591 Breeds Apr 15 to Oct 31 Black Skimmer Rynchops niger This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska. https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/5234 Breeds May 20 to Sep 15 Black Turnstone Arenaria melanocephala This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska. Breeds elsewhere Bullock's Oriole Icterus bullockii This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) only in particular Bird Conservation Regions (BCRs) in the continental USA Breeds Mar 21 to Jul 25 California Gull Larus californicus This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska. Breeds Mar 1 to Jul 31 California Thrasher Toxostoma redivivum This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska. Breeds Jan 1 to Jul 31 Clark's Grebe Aechmophorus clarkii This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska. Breeds Jun 1 to Aug 31 5/6/24, 3:36 PM IPaC: Explore Location resources https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/location/F2DE3T365RFA5LSCPWFUPFNR4E/resources 11/21 Common Yellowthroat Geothlypis trichas sinuosa This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) only in particular Bird Conservation Regions (BCRs) in the continental USA https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/2084 Breeds May 20 to Jul 31 Elegant Tern Thalasseus elegans This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) only in particular Bird Conservation Regions (BCRs) in the continental USA https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/8561 Breeds Apr 5 to Aug 5 Golden Eagle Aquila chrysaetos This is not a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) in this area, but warrants attention because of the Eagle Act or for potential susceptibilities in oshore areas from certain types of development or activities. https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/1680 Breeds Jan 1 to Aug 31 Heermann's Gull Larus heermanni This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska. Breeds Mar 15 to Aug 31 Lawrence's Goldnch Spinus lawrencei This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska. https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/9464 Breeds Mar 20 to Sep 20 Long-eared Owl asio otus This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska. https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/3631 Breeds Mar 1 to Jul 15 Marbled Godwit Limosa fedoa This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska. https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/9481 Breeds elsewhere Northern Harrier Circus hudsonius This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) only in particular Bird Conservation Regions (BCRs) in the continental USA https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/8350 Breeds Apr 1 to Sep 15 5/6/24, 3:36 PM IPaC: Explore Location resources https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/location/F2DE3T365RFA5LSCPWFUPFNR4E/resources 12/21 Nuttall's Woodpecker Dryobates nuttallii This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) only in particular Bird Conservation Regions (BCRs) in the continental USA https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/9410 Breeds Apr 1 to Jul 20 Oak Titmouse Baeolophus inornatus This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska. https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/9656 Breeds Mar 15 to Jul 15 Olive-sided Flycatcher Contopus cooperi This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska. https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/3914 Breeds May 20 to Aug 31 Red Knot Calidris canutus roselaari This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska. https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/8880 Breeds elsewhere Santa Barbara Song Sparrow Melospiza melodia graminea This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) only in particular Bird Conservation Regions (BCRs) in the continental USA https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/5513 Breeds Mar 1 to Sep 5 Short-billed Dowitcher Limnodromus griseus This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska. https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/9480 Breeds elsewhere Tricolored Blackbird Agelaius tricolor This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska. https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/3910 Breeds Mar 15 to Aug 10 Western Grebe aechmophorus occidentalis This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska. https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/6743 Breeds Jun 1 to Aug 31 5/6/24, 3:36 PM IPaC: Explore Location resources https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/location/F2DE3T365RFA5LSCPWFUPFNR4E/resources 13/21 Probability of Presence Summary The graphs below provide our best understanding of when birds of concern are most likely to be present in your project area. This information can be used to tailor and schedule your project activities to avoid or minimize impacts to birds. Please make sure you read "Supplemental Information on Migratory Birds and Eagles", specically the FAQ section titled "Proper Interpretation and Use of Your Migratory Bird Report" before using or attempting to interpret this report. Probability of Presence () Each green bar represents the bird's relative probability of presence in the 10km grid cell(s) your project overlaps during a particular week of the year. (A year is represented as 12 4- week months.) A taller bar indicates a higher probability of species presence. The survey eort (see below) can be used to establish a level of condence in the presence score. One can have higher condence in the presence score if the corresponding survey eort is also high. How is the probability of presence score calculated? The calculation is done in three steps: 1. The probability of presence for each week is calculated as the number of survey events in the week where the species was detected divided by the total number of survey events for that week. For example, if in week 12 there were 20 survey events and the Spotted Towhee was found in 5 of them, the probability of presence of the Spotted Towhee in week 12 is 0.25. 2. To properly present the pattern of presence across the year, the relative probability of presence is calculated. This is the probability of presence divided by the maximum probability of presence across all weeks. For example, imagine the probability of presence in week 20 for the Spotted Towhee is 0.05, and that the probability of presence at week 12 (0.25) is the maximum of any week of the year. The relative probability of presence on week 12 is 0.25/0.25 = 1; at week 20 it is 0.05/0.25 = 0.2. 3. The relative probability of presence calculated in the previous step undergoes a statistical conversion so that all possible values fall between 0 and 10, inclusive. This is the Western Gull Larus occidentalis This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska. Breeds Apr 21 to Aug 25 Willet Tringa semipalmata This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska. Breeds elsewhere Wrentit Chamaea fasciata This is a Bird of Conservation Concern (BCC) throughout its range in the continental USA and Alaska. Breeds Mar 15 to Aug 10 5/6/24, 3:36 PM IPaC: Explore Location resources https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/location/F2DE3T365RFA5LSCPWFUPFNR4E/resources 14/21 no data survey eort breeding season probability of presence probability of presence score. To see a bar's probability of presence score, simply hover your mouse cursor over the bar. Breeding Season () Yellow bars denote a very liberal estimate of the time-frame inside which the bird breeds across its entire range. If there are no yellow bars shown for a bird, it does not breed in your project area. Survey Eort () Vertical black lines superimposed on probability of presence bars indicate the number of surveys performed for that species in the 10km grid cell(s) your project area overlaps. The number of surveys is expressed as a range, for example, 33 to 64 surveys. To see a bar's survey eort range, simply hover your mouse cursor over the bar. No Data () A week is marked as having no data if there were no survey events for that week. Survey Timeframe Surveys from only the last 10 years are used in order to ensure delivery of currently relevant information. The exception to this is areas o the Atlantic coast, where bird returns are based on all years of available data, since data in these areas is currently much more sparse. SPECIES JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC Allen's Hummingbird BCC Rangewide (CON) Bald Eagle Non-BCC Vulnerable Belding's Savannah Sparrow BCC - BCR Black Oystercatcher BCC Rangewide (CON) Black Skimmer BCC Rangewide (CON) Black Turnstone BCC Rangewide (CON) 5/6/24, 3:36 PM IPaC: Explore Location resources https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/location/F2DE3T365RFA5LSCPWFUPFNR4E/resources 15/21 Bullock's Oriole BCC - BCR California Gull BCC Rangewide (CON) California Thrasher BCC Rangewide (CON) Clark's Grebe BCC Rangewide (CON) Common Yellowthroat BCC - BCR Elegant Tern BCC - BCR SPECIES JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC Golden Eagle Non-BCC Vulnerable Heermann's Gull BCC Rangewide (CON) Lawrence's Goldnch BCC Rangewide (CON) Long-eared Owl BCC Rangewide (CON) Marbled Godwit BCC Rangewide (CON) Northern Harrier BCC - BCR Nuttall's Woodpecker BCC - BCR Oak Titmouse BCC Rangewide (CON) 5/6/24, 3:36 PM IPaC: Explore Location resources https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/location/F2DE3T365RFA5LSCPWFUPFNR4E/resources 16/21 Olive-sided Flycatcher BCC Rangewide (CON) Red Knot BCC Rangewide (CON) Santa Barbara Song Sparrow BCC - BCR Short-billed Dowitcher BCC Rangewide (CON) SPECIES JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC Tricolored Blackbird BCC Rangewide (CON) Western Grebe BCC Rangewide (CON) Western Gull BCC Rangewide (CON) Willet BCC Rangewide (CON) Wrentit BCC Rangewide (CON) Tell me more about conservation measures I can implement to avoid or minimize impacts to migratory birds. Nationwide Conservation Measures describes measures that can help avoid and minimize impacts to all birds at any location year round. Implementation of these measures is particularly important when birds are most likely to occur in the project area. When birds may be breeding in the area, identifying the locations of any active nests and avoiding their destruction is a very helpful impact minimization measure. To see when birds are most likely to occur and be breeding in your project area, view the Probability of Presence Summary. Additional measures or permits may be advisable depending on the type of activity you are conducting and the type of infrastructure or bird species present on your project site. What does IPaC use to generate the list of migratory birds that potentially occur in my specied location? The Migratory Bird Resource List is comprised of USFWS Birds of Conservation Concern (BCC) and other species that may warrant special attention in your project location. 5/6/24, 3:36 PM IPaC: Explore Location resources https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/location/F2DE3T365RFA5LSCPWFUPFNR4E/resources 17/21 The migratory bird list generated for your project is derived from data provided by the Avian Knowledge Network (AKN). The AKN data is based on a growing collection of survey, banding, and citizen science datasets and is queried and ltered to return a list of those birds reported as occurring in the 10km grid cell(s) which your project intersects, and that have been identied as warranting special attention because they are a BCC species in that area, an eagle (Eagle Act requirements may apply), or a species that has a particular vulnerability to oshore activities or development. Again, the Migratory Bird Resource list includes only a subset of birds that may occur in your project area. It is not representative of all birds that may occur in your project area. To get a list of all birds potentially present in your project area, please visit the Rapid Avian Information Locator (RAIL) Tool. What does IPaC use to generate the probability of presence graphs for the migratory birds potentially occurring in my specied location? The probability of presence graphs associated with your migratory bird list are based on data provided by the Avian Knowledge Network (AKN). This data is derived from a growing collection of survey, banding, and citizen science datasets. Probability of presence data is continuously being updated as new and better information becomes available. To learn more about how the probability of presence graphs are produced and how to interpret them, go the Probability of Presence Summary and then click on the "Tell me about these graphs" link. How do I know if a bird is breeding, wintering or migrating in my area? To see what part of a particular bird's range your project area falls within (i.e. breeding, wintering, migrating or year-round), you may query your location using the RAIL Tool and look at the range maps provided for birds in your area at the bottom of the proles provided for each bird in your results. If a bird on your migratory bird species list has a breeding season associated with it, if that bird does occur in your project area, there may be nests present at some point within the timeframe specied. If "Breeds elsewhere" is indicated, then the bird likely does not breed in your project area. What are the levels of concern for migratory birds? Migratory birds delivered through IPaC fall into the following distinct categories of concern: 1. "BCC Rangewide" birds are Birds of Conservation Concern (BCC) that are of concern throughout their range anywhere within the USA (including Hawaii, the Pacic Islands, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands); 2. "BCC - BCR" birds are BCCs that are of concern only in particular Bird Conservation Regions (BCRs) in the continental USA; and 3. "Non-BCC - Vulnerable" birds are not BCC species in your project area, but appear on your list either because of the Eagle Act requirements (for eagles) or (for non-eagles) potential susceptibilities in oshore areas from certain types of development or activities (e.g. oshore energy development or longline shing). Although it is important to try to avoid and minimize impacts to all birds, eorts should be made, in particular, to avoid and minimize impacts to the birds on this list, especially eagles and BCC species of rangewide concern. For more information on conservation measures you can implement to help avoid and minimize migratory bird impacts and requirements for eagles, please see the FAQs for these topics. Details about birds that are potentially aected by oshore projects 5/6/24, 3:36 PM IPaC: Explore Location resources https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/location/F2DE3T365RFA5LSCPWFUPFNR4E/resources 18/21 For additional details about the relative occurrence and abundance of both individual bird species and groups of bird species within your project area o the Atlantic Coast, please visit the Northeast Ocean Data Portal. The Portal also oers data and information about other taxa besides birds that may be helpful to you in your project review. Alternately, you may download the bird model results les underlying the portal maps through the NOAA NCCOS Integrative Statistical Modeling and Predictive Mapping of Marine Bird Distributions and Abundance on the Atlantic Outer Continental Shelf project webpage. Bird tracking data can also provide additional details about occurrence and habitat use throughout the year, including migration. Models relying on survey data may not include this information. For additional information on marine bird tracking data, see the Diving Bird Study and the nanotag studies or contact Caleb Spiegel or Pam Loring. What if I have eagles on my list? If your project has the potential to disturb or kill eagles, you may need to obtain a permit to avoid violating the Eagle Act should such impacts occur. Proper Interpretation and Use of Your Migratory Bird Report The migratory bird list generated is not a list of all birds in your project area, only a subset of birds of priority concern. To learn more about how your list is generated, and see options for identifying what other birds may be in your project area, please see the FAQ "What does IPaC use to generate the migratory birds potentially occurring in my specied location". Please be aware this report provides the "probability of presence" of birds within the 10 km grid cell(s) that overlap your project; not your exact project footprint. On the graphs provided, please also look carefully at the survey eort (indicated by the black vertical bar) and for the existence of the "no data" indicator (a red horizontal bar). A high survey eort is the key component. If the survey eort is high, then the probability of presence score can be viewed as more dependable. In contrast, a low survey eort bar or no data bar means a lack of data and, therefore, a lack of certainty about presence of the species. This list is not perfect; it is simply a starting point for identifying what birds of concern have the potential to be in your project area, when they might be there, and if they might be breeding (which means nests might be present). The list helps you know what to look for to conrm presence, and helps guide you in knowing when to implement conservation measures to avoid or minimize potential impacts from your project activities, should presence be conrmed. To learn more about conservation measures, visit the FAQ "Tell me about conservation measures I can implement to avoid or minimize impacts to migratory birds" at the bottom of your migratory bird trust resources page. Facilities National Wildlife Refuge lands Any activity proposed on lands managed by the National Wildlife Refuge system must undergo a 'Compatibility Determination' conducted by the Refuge. Please contact the individual Refuges to discuss any questions or concerns. There are no refuge lands at this location. 5/6/24, 3:36 PM IPaC: Explore Location resources https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/location/F2DE3T365RFA5LSCPWFUPFNR4E/resources 19/21 Fish hatcheries There are no sh hatcheries at this location. Wetlands in the National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) Impacts to NWI wetlands and other aquatic habitats may be subject to regulation under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act, or other State/Federal statutes. For more information please contact the Regulatory Program of the local U.S. Army Corps of Engineers District. Please note that the NWI data being shown may be out of date. We are currently working to update our NWI data set. We recommend you verify these results with a site visit to determine the actual extent of wetlands on site. This location overlaps the following wetlands: NOTE: This initial screening does not replace an on-site delineation to determine whether wetlands occur. Additional information on the NWI data is provided below. Data limitations The Service's objective of mapping wetlands and deepwater habitats is to produce reconnaissance level information on the location, type and size of these resources. The maps are prepared from the analysis of high altitude imagery. Wetlands are identied based on vegetation, visible hydrology and geography. A margin of error is inherent in the use of imagery; thus, detailed on-the-ground inspection of any particular site may result in revision of the wetland boundaries or classication established through image analysis. FRESHWATER FORESTED/SHRUB WETLAND PFO1Ch PFO1B FRESHWATER POND PUBHh RIVERINE R4SBC A full description for each wetland code can be found at the National Wetlands Inventory website 5/6/24, 3:36 PM IPaC: Explore Location resources https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/location/F2DE3T365RFA5LSCPWFUPFNR4E/resources 20/21 The accuracy of image interpretation depends on the quality of the imagery, the experience of the image analysts, the amount and quality of the collateral data and the amount of ground truth verication work conducted. Metadata should be consulted to determine the date of the source imagery used and any mapping problems. Wetlands or other mapped features may have changed since the date of the imagery or eld work. There may be occasional dierences in polygon boundaries or classications between the information depicted on the map and the actual conditions on site. Data exclusions Certain wetland habitats are excluded from the National mapping program because of the limitations of aerial imagery as the primary data source used to detect wetlands. These habitats include seagrasses or submerged aquatic vegetation that are found in the intertidal and subtidal zones of estuaries and nearshore coastal waters. Some deepwater reef communities (coral or tubercid worm reefs) have also been excluded from the inventory. These habitats, because of their depth, go undetected by aerial imagery. Data precautions Federal, state, and local regulatory agencies with jurisdiction over wetlands may dene and describe wetlands in a dierent manner than that used in this inventory. There is no attempt, in either the design or products of this inventory, to dene the limits of proprietary jurisdiction of any Federal, state, or local government or to establish the geographical scope of the regulatory programs of government agencies. Persons intending to engage in activities involving modications within or adjacent to wetland areas should seek the advice of appropriate Federal, state, or local agencies concerning specied agency regulatory programs and proprietary jurisdictions that may aect such activities. 5/6/24, 3:36 PM IPaC: Explore Location resources https://ipac.ecosphere.fws.gov/location/F2DE3T365RFA5LSCPWFUPFNR4E/resources 21/21 Appendix E. Wildcat Creek Fish Passage Project Photos FIGURE 1: SOUTH SIDE OF SEDIMENT BASIN. FIGURE 2: SEDIMENT BASIN, LOOKING DOWNSTREAM, TRANSITION FROM SEDIMENT BASIN TO RIPARIAN VERGE ON SOUTH SIDE. FIGURE 3: RIPARIAN VEGETATION ON SOUTH EDGE OF SEDIMENT BASIN, RED WILLOWS. FIGURE 4: COMMUNITY AMENITIES AREA. FIGURE 5: CORPORATION YARD (1) FIGURE 6: CORPORATION YARD (2). FIGURE 7: CORPORATION YARD (3). FIGURE 8: FISH PASSAGE STRUCTURE, LOOKING UPSTREAM. FIGURE 9: CENTER BAY, LOOKING UPSTREAM, AT UPRR CROSSING (NHC 2014). FIGURE 10: SEDIMENT BASIN, LOOKING DOWNSTREAM FROM THE BASE OF FISH PASSAGE STRUCTURE. FIGURE 11: SEDIMENT BASIN VEGETATION. FIGURE 12: FLOWING WATER IN THE IN THE SEDIEMNT BASIN. FIGURE 13: VEGETATION ALONG THE CHANNEL. FIGURE 14: EXISTING DENIL FISH LADDER, CLEARED OF SEDIMENT, LOOKING UPSTREAM FROM SEDIMENT BASIN. PHOTO FROM EBRPD IN 2007. FIGURE 15: DENIL FISH LADDER, FILLED WITH SEDIMENT, LOOKING UPSTREAM FROM SEDIMENT BASIN. PHOTO FROM 2022. FIGURE 16: EXAMPLE PORTION OF CLOGGED WASHINGTON BAFFLES. APPENDIX F. Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project - Essential Fish Habitat and Critical Habitat Technical Memorandum Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project Essential Fish Habitat and Critical Habitat Technical Memorandum Introduction This technical memorandum provides a description of essential fish habitat (EFH) within the Project area and Project effects to EFH. he National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), a division of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), regulates essential fish habitat (“EFH”) and anadromous fish. Protection of EFH is mandated through changes implemented in 1996 to the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (“Magnuson-Stevens Act”') to protect the loss of habitat necessary to maintain sustainable fisheries in the United States. In addition to EFH, this technical memorandum provides a description of critical habitat within the Project area and Project effects to critical habitat. Critical habitat is habitat needed to support recovery of listed species. When a species is listed under the Endangered Species Act, NOAA Fisheries is required to determine whether there are areas that meet the definition of critical habitat (NOAA 2009). The following sections provide a description of what EFH and critical habitat are, a description of the Project, specifically any actions which may have an effect on listed species, a description of the listed species or critical habitats that may be affected, and a description of the effects to EFH and critical habitat. Essential Fish Habitat Section 3(10) of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (MSA), as amended by the Sustainable Fisheries Act of 1996 (Public Law 104 -267), established procedures designed to identify, conserve, and enhance important habitats for sensitive fish species and that are defined as Essential Fish Habitat (EFH). The species under the MSA and their habitat requirements are regulated under the Pacific Fisheries Management Council’s (PMFC) Federal fisheries management plans (FMP). The MSA requires Federal agencies to consult with the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) on all actions, or proposed actions, authorized, funded, or undertaken by the agency, that may adversely affect EFH. EFH is defined in the MSA as those waters and substrate necessary to fish for spawning, breeding, feeding, or growth to maturity. The habitat or substrate includes sediment, hard bottom, structures underlying the waters, and associated biological communities. “Necessary” means the habitat required to support a sustainable fishery and the managed species contribution to a healthy ecosystem; and spawning, breeding, feeding, or growth to maturity covers a species full life cycle (NMFS 2014). The objective of this EFH and critical habitat technical memo is to determine whether or not the proposed action(s) “may adversely affect” designated critical habitat and EFH (for relevant commercially, federally-managed fisheries species) within the proposed action area. Adverse effects mean any impact which reduces quality and/or quantity of EFH, and may include direct (e.g., contamination or physical disruption), indirect (e.g., loss of prey or reduction in species fecundity), site-specific or habitat-wide impacts, including individual, cumulative, or synergistic consequences of actions. In Washington, Oregon, and California, there are three FMPs, covering groundfish, coastal pelagic species, and Pacific salmon. EFH is located in San Pablo Bay for Chinook salmon, coho salmon and California Central Coast (CCC) steelhead and includes the Project’s Action area (2 miles downstream in San Pablo Bay) but not in the immediate Project implementation area on Wildcat Creek. Critical Habitat NMFS defines critical habitat as: • Specific areas within the geographical area occupied by the species at the time of listing that contain physical or biological features (PBFs) essential to conservation of the species and that; • may require special management considerations or protection; and • Specific areas outside the geographical area occupied by the species if the agency determines that the area itself is essential for conservation. Critical habitat for NMFS-listed fish species occurs for CCC steelhead, located on Wildcat Creek where implementation of the Project will occur and for Southern DPS Green Sturgeon, located in San Pablo Bay, where the Project Action Area could have potential impacts (Federal Register, 2000.Project Location and Background The Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project (Project) is in North Richmond, an unincorporated area in western Contra Costa County and the Cities of Richmond and San Pablo, along the Wildcat Creek between Rumrill Boulevard and 6th Street. Wildcat Creek flows into the San Pablo Bay approximately two miles west of the Project, where EFH for Pacific Salmon is located (PFMC 2014). The Project Site includes the existing flood control and fish passage structures, the downstream sediment basin, the adjacent trail, and Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District (District) corporation yard. The Project Site is located in a highly urbanized area of Contra Costa County with light industrial buildings, schools, and housing along the creek corridor. Wildcat Creek originates in Wildcat Canyon, and runs through the cities of Richmond, San Pablo, El Cerrito, and unincorporated Contra Costa County. Project’s Action Area The Project’s Action Area1 addressed within this document occurs in Wildcat Creek and has potential effects two miles downstream at the mouth or terminus, and therefore includes the outlet at San Pablo Bay. Effects from the Project could occur if not for protection measures and design features incorporated into the Project. Effects from the Project, such as sedimentation could potentially occur downstream in Wildcat Creek or San Pablo Bay, within EFH, for CCC steelhead, Chinook and coho salmon (and in critical habitat for CCC steelhead and Southern DPS green sturgeon). (see effects below). Essential Fish Habitat - Species Discussion Salmon and Steelhead EFH on the West Coast is identified in FMPs developed by the Pacific Fishery Management Council (PFMC) and approved by the Secretary of Commerce. Pacific Salmon EFH definitions and protections are outlined in the Pacific Salmon FMP which is designed to protect habitat for commercially important salmonid species. Chinook salmon managed by the PFMC’s FMP, are the one of these species that may be seasonally present in the San Pablo Bay, although historically coho salmon were common in San Francisco Bay, including the San Pablo Bay, they are not common currently. Both Chinook salmon and coho salmon, that are managed under the PFMC’s FMP, do not utilize habitat in the Project area, but may be affected downstream of the Project in the Action area where EFH occurs (The Action Area of the Project would extend into San Pablo Bay if adverse effects from the Project were measurable, via sedimentation from Project implementation that moves downstream and into San Pablo Bay after the Project is implemented and Wildcat Creek has active flow again). Steelhead are also included in the EFH designation for San Pablo Bay and occasionally are documented using habitat in the Project area along Wildcat Creek for migration (critical habitat). However, steelhead are not managed under the PFMC’s FMP as a commercially viable species and are therefore not included as part of the EFH protections through the FMP. Project Effects to EFH The PFMC identifies habitat areas of particular concern (HAPC), which are a subset of EFH that highlight especially important habitat areas or types. Because the Project’s action area could affect San Pablo Bay at the downstream outlet of Wildcat Creek, and contains the following HAPC: estuaries, (that are necessary for 1 The “action area” includes all areas affected directly or indirectly by the Federal action and not merely the immediate area involved in the action. The action area is usually larger than the project footprint and extends out to a point where no measurable effects from the project occur. listed fish life history success), it is necessary to analyze the Project’s potential effects on EFH for CCC steelhead and salmon. The FMP defines the estuary HAPC as follows: Estuaries: Estuaries include nearshore areas such as bays, sounds, inlets, river mouths and deltas, pocket estuaries, and lagoons influenced by ocean and freshwater. Because of tidal cycles and freshwater runoff, salinity varies within estuaries and results in great diversity, offering freshwater, brackish and marine habitats within close proximity. Such areas tend to be shallow, protected, nutrient rich, and are biologically productive, providing important habitat for marine organisms, including salmon. The proposed Action will not temporarily or permanently adversely modify EFH for Chinook and coho salmonids or for CCC steelhead within localized portions of the San Pablo Bay downstream of the Project site due to: 1. The Project will be implemented when Wildcat Creek is dry; 2. Mitigation measures will be put in place to reduce impacts from sediment to insignificant levels (not measurable) when the channel is rewetted (mainly through design features that increase the capacity of the sediment basin therefore reducing sedimentation over the long term). Effects from Project implementation will not result in any permanent habitat loss or create any displacement of MSA‐managed species and habitat. The implementation of the proposed avoidance, minimization, and conservation measures will reduce any measurable impacts to EFH to an insignificant level.2 2 HAPCs have been identified under the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery Management Plan (FMP) and the Pacific Coast Salmon FMP as follows: Salmon HAPCs The following describe components of the salmon HAPCs. For a more detailed description of these HAPCs, see Appendix A to the Pacific Coast Salmon FMP. Complex Channels and Floodplains: Both complex channels and floodplains provide valuable habitat for all Pacific salmon species. Complex channels consist of meandering, island -braided, pool-riffle and forced pool-riffle channels. Complex floodplain habitats consist of wetlands, oxbows, side channels, sloughs and beaver ponds, and steeper, more constrained channels with high levels of large woody debris (LWD). Densities of spawning and rearing salmon are highest in areas of high-quality, naturally-functioning floodplain habitat and in areas with LWD, compared to anthropogenically modified floodplains. Complex floodplain habitats are dynamic systems that change over time. As such, the habitat -forming processes that create and maintain these habitats (e.g., erosion and aggradation, input of large wood from riparian forests) should be considered integral to the habitat. Thermal Refugia: Thermal refugia typically include coolwater tributaries, lateral seeps, side channels, tributary junctions, deep pools, areas of groundwater upwelling, and other mainstem river habitats that are cooler than surrounding waters (≥2° C cooler). Spatial scales can range from entire tributaries (e.g., spring-fed streams), to stream reaches, to highly localized pockets of water only a few square meters in size embedded within larger rivers. Thermal refugia provide areas to escape high water temperatures and are critical to salmon survival, especially during hot, dry summers in California, Idaho, and eastern Oregon and Washington. Thermal refugia also provide important holding and rearing habitat for adults and juveniles. Thermal refugia are susceptible to blockage by artificial barriers. Reduced flows can also reduce or eliminate access to refugia. Loss of structural elements such as large wood can also influence the formation of thermal refugia. Spawning Habitat: Salmon spawning habitat is typically defined as low gradient stream reaches (<3%), containing clean gravel with low levels of fine sediment and high inter gravel flow. Many spawning areas have been well defined by historical and current spawner surveys, and detailed maps exist for some watersheds. Spawning habitat is especially sensitive to stress and degradation by a number of land- and water-use activities that affect the quality, quantity, and stability of spawning habitat (e.g., sediment deposition from land disturbance, streambank armoring, water withdrawals). Effects to EFH The PFMC identifies habitat areas of particular concern (HAPC), which are a subset of EFH that highlight especially important habitat areas or types. Because the Project’s action area could affect San Pablo Bay at the downstream outlet of Wildcat Creek, and contains the following HAPC: estuaries, (that are necessary for listed fish life history success), it is necessary to analyze the Project’s potential effects on EFH for CCC steelhead. The FMP defines the estuary HAPC as follows: Estuaries: Estuaries include nearshore areas such as bays, sounds, inlets, river mouths and deltas, pocket estuaries, and lagoons influenced by ocean and freshwater. Because of tidal cycles and freshwater runoff, salinity varies within estuaries and results in great diversity, offering freshwater, brackish and marine habitats within close proximity. Such areas tend to be shallow, protected, nutrient rich, and are biologically productive, providing important habitat for marine organisms, including salmon. The proposed Action will not temporarily or permanently adversely modify EFH for Chinook and coho salmonids or for CCC steelhead within localized portions of the San Pablo Bay downstream of the Project site due to: 1. The Project will be implemented when Wildcat Creek is dry; and 2. Mitigation measures will be put in place to reduce impacts from sediment to insignificant levels when the channel is rewetted; and 3. through design features that increase the capacity of the sediment basin). Effects from Project implementation will not result in any permanent habitat loss or create any displacement of MSA‐managed species and habitat. The implementation of the proposed avoidance, minimization, and conservation measures will reduce any measurable impacts to EFH to and insignificant level. Estuaries: Estuaries include nearshore areas such as bays, sounds, inlets, river mouths and deltas, pocket estuaries, and lagoons influenced by ocean and freshwater. Because of tidal cycles and freshwater runoff, salinity varies within estuaries and results in great diversity, offering freshwater, brackish and marine habitats within close proximity. Such areas tend to be shallow, protected, nutrient rich, and are biologically productive, providing important habitat for marine organisms, including salmon. Marine and Estuarine Submerged Aquatic Vegetation: Submerged aquatic vegetation includes the canopy kelps and eelgrass. These habitats have been shown to have some of the highest primary productivity in the marine environment and provide a significant contribution to the marine and estuarine food webs. Kelps are brown macroalgae and include those that float to form canopies and those that do not, such as Laminaria spp. Canopy-forming kelps of the eastern Pacific Coast are dominated by two species, giant kelp (Macrocystis pyrifera) and bull kelp (Nereocystis leutkeana). Kelp plants, besides requiring moderate to high water movement and energy levels, are most likely limited by the availability of suitable substrate. Native eelgrass (Zostera marina) forms dense beds of leafy shoots year-round in the soft sediments of the lower intertidal and shallow subtidal zone. Eelgrass forms a three-dimensional structure in an otherwise two-dimensional (sand or mud) environment. Critical Habitat Species discussion CCC Steelhead Critical habitat for steelhead is found in the mainstem of Wildcat Creek. Steelhead historically used the Project area of Wildcat Creek as a migration corridor to find their way up to the upper watershed for spawning and rearing, where there is cooler refu gia. Critical habitat is defined as Physical and Biological Features (PBFs) important for the survival and recovery of a species. Steelhead PBFs include: • spawning habitat with water quantity and quality conditions and substrate supporting spawning, • incubation and larval development; • freshwater rearing habitat with water quantity and quality, floodplain connectivity, forage, and natural cover supporting juvenile development, growth, mobility, and survival; • freshwater migration corridors free of obstruction (Project area PBF) and excessive predation with water quantity and quality conditions and natural cover supporting juvenile and adult mobility and survival; • estuarine areas free of obstruction and excessive predation supporting mobility and survival, with water quantity, water quality, and salinity conditions supporting juvenile and adult physiological transitions between fresh and saltwater, and natural cover and forage supporting growth, maturation and survival. The PBF for Wildcat Creek steelhead in the Project area is a freshwater migration corridor. Southern DPS Green Sturgeon In 2006, NMFS listed the southern DPS of North American Green Sturgeon (Acipenser medirostris) as threatened under the U.S. Endangered Species Act (ESA 1973, Section 4 as amended; NMFS 2006) and added designated critical habitat designation in 2009 (NMFS 2009). However, the Project’s action area, which has potential effects that extend into the San Pablo Bay, is within critical habitat for green sturgeon3. 3 The designations of critical habitat for listed species have generally used the term primary constituent elements (PCEs). NMFS and USFWS' recently issued a final rule amending the regulations for designating critical habitat (81 FR 7414; February 11, 2016), which replaced the term PCEs with physical or biological features (PBFs). In addition, NMFS and USFWS recently issued a final rule revising the regulatory definition of "destruction or adverse modification" of critical habitat (81 FR 7214; February 11, 2016), which refers to PBFs, not PCEs. The shift in terminology does not change the approach used in PBFs for the southern DPS of the green sturgeon in the San Pablo Bay (and in the Project’s action area mouth of Wildcat Creek) and associated Bay habitats includes: food resources for all life stages, water flows, water quality, migratory corridors, channel depths, and sediment quality. Dredging, in-water construction, National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) activities, commercial shipping, and habitat restoration are identified in the final green sturgeon critical habitat rule as activities that may affect one or more PBFs through alteration of the physical parameters of the estuary. Since, as stated above, the Project has potential to increase sedimentation into San Pablo Bay (without design and protection measures), green sturgeon PBFs have potential to be adversely impacted, and are therefore included in the effects analysis here and in the Biological Resources Assessment. Green sturgeon PBFs (for freshwater riverine systems and estuarine habitats) include: • food resources for larval, juvenile, subadult, and adult life stages; • water flow regime with flow magnitude, duration, seasonality, and rate -of-change supporting growth, survival, and migration of all life stages; • water quality including temperature, salinity, oxygen content, and other chemical characteristics supporting growth and viability of all life stages. Effects to Critical Habitat CCC Steelhead The Project implementation will avoid adverse effects to CCC steelhead critical habitats due to the following: (1) The Project work window is scheduled for a period when Wildcat Creek does not have flow, so no fish will be in the Creek. No temporary turbidity impacts will occur to downstream critical habitat from any project construction related sedimentation because of the work window as well; (2) The Project’s design includes improvement in the capacity of the sediment basin such that more sediment will be retained in the basin, reducing sedimentation at and below the Project Action Area of Wildcat Creek; (3) Riparian habitat will be improved in the Project vicinity due to a decrease in trapped sediment; and (4) The PBF of freshwater migration corridor will be improved with the implementation of the Project, providing more passage opportunities at a larger range of flows. By avoiding times when CCC Steelhead could be present due to the lack of water in the channel, and by providing long-term improvements to habitat conditions for CCC conducting an analysis of the effects of the proposed action on species . Steelhead, the Proposed Action will avoid adverse effects to CCC Steelhead. Cumulative effects to CCC Steelhead include the effects of future state, tribal, local, or private actions that are reasonably certain to occur in the Action Area . Cumulative effects in the Action Area may result from new infrastructure, infrastructure maintenance, or increases to sedimentation in the Wildcat Creek watershed. Such unrelated infrastructure projects, maintenance, and other development projects would undergo separate environmental review and permitting processes. CEQA, Section 1600 of the California Fish and Game Code, the Coastal Zone Management Act, the California Coastal Act, and Sections 401 and 404 of the Clean Water Act permitting process would require mitigation of effects from future projects. At this time, no other federal, state, or private projects or continuing maintenance projects in or adjacent to the Action Area have been identified. With the proper environmental permitting and AMMs, future projects are not expected to have any considerable cumulative effects Therefore, the Proposed Action may affect, but is not likely to adversely affect, CCC Steelhead. Southern DPS Green Sturgeon Critical habitat for green sturgeon is found in San Pablo Bay but does not include Wildcat Creek mainstem corridor. Green sturgeon would also probably not utilize the terminus of Wildcat Creek, where the creek flows into the Bay due to temperature and habitat quality issues. Impacts to Green Sturgeon critical habitat could occur if project sedimentation affected downstream critical habitat in San Pablo Bay. However, the effects to the mouth of Wildcat Creek where it flows into San Pablo Bay will be insignificant due to: 1. The Project will be implemented when Wildcat Creek is dry, so no sediment will be transported “downstream” during Project construction; and 2. Mitigation measures will be put in place to reduce impacts from sediment to insignificant (not measurable levels in terms of delta ∆) levels when the channel is rewetted; and 3. Through design features that increase the capacity of the sediment basin. The lack of PBFs to support Green Sturgeon means that Green Sturgeon are not present in Wildcat Creek. Downstream effects to Green Sturgeon habitat in San Pablo Bay would be beneficial through the overall decrease in sedimentation. Therefore, the Proposed Project would have no effect on Green Sturgeon. References Federal Register. 2000. Designated critical habitat: critical habitat for 19 evolutionarily significant units of salmon and steelhead in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and California. 7764, Vol. 65, No. 32, Rules and Regulations. Final rule. Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and National Marine Fisheries Service, Wednesday, February 16, 2000. Federal Register. 2006. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants: Threatened Status for Southern Distinct Population Segment of North American Green Sturgeon. 17757, Vol. 71, No. 67, Rules and Regulations. Final Rule. Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and National Marine Fisheries Service, Wednesday, April 7, 2006. National Marine Fisheries Service. 2009. Designation of Critical Habitat for the threatened Southern Distinct Population Segment of North American Green Sturgeon Final Biological Report. Website: https://repository.library.noaa.gov/view/noaa/18683. Accessed February 27, 2024. Attachment 3. Air Quality Emissions Calculations Wildcat Creek Fish Passage Construction - Average Daily Emissions (lbs.) Project Phase/Emission Source ROG NOx PM10 (Exhaust) PM 2.5 (Exhaust) Site Preparation Off-Road Construction Equipment 3.6 27.1 1.1 1.0 Fill/Debris/Concrete Trucks 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Worker Commute Vehicles 0.00 0.01 0.00 0.00 Subtotal 3.6 27.1 1.1 1.0 Sediment Basin Clearing Off-Road Construction Equipment 1.7 13.6 0.6 0.6 Fill/Debris/Concrete Trucks 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Worker Commute Vehicles 0.00 0.01 0.00 0.00 Subtotal 1.7 13.6 0.6 0.6 Fish Passage Structure Off-Road Construction Equipment 0.3 2.8 0.2 0.2 Fill/Debris/Concrete Trucks 0.1 10.2 0.04 0.04 Worker Commute Vehicles 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Subtotal 0.4 12.9 0.2 0.2 Sediment Basin Off-Road Construction Equipment 3.0 23.3 1.0 1.0 Fill/Debris/Concrete Trucks 0.1 10.2 0.04 0.04 Worker Commute Vehicles 0.00 0.02 0.00 0.00 Subtotal 3.2 33.5 1.1 1.0 Upstream Channel Modifications Off-Road Construction Equipment 1.2 10.5 0.5 0.5 Fill/Debris/Concrete Trucks 0.1 10.2 0.0 0.04 Worker Commute Vehicles 0.00 0.01 0.00 0.00 Subtotal 1.3 20.6 0.5 0.5 Community Amenities Off-Road Construction Equipment 2.6 22.0 1.0 0.9 Fill/Debris/Concrete Trucks 0.1 10.2 0.0 0.04 Worker Commute Vehicles 0.00 0.02 0.00 0.00 Subtotal 2.8 32.2 1.0 0.9 Site Clean-Up/Revegetation Off-Road Construction Equipment 0.4 3.4 0.2 0.2 Fill/Debris/Concrete Trucks 0.1 10.2 0.0 0.04 Worker Commute Vehicles 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Subtotal 0.5 13.6 0.2 0.2 Highest Daily Average (including phase overlap)3.6 36.3 1.3 1.2 CEQA Construction Emissions Threshold 54 54 82 54 Significant Impact?No No No No CalEEMod (Version 2022.1) User's Guide Appendix G lists all the numerical values in the model database used to calculate project criteria and GHG pollutant emissions. Diesel-powered construction equipment emission factors from the OFFROAD model and on-road motor vehicle emission rates from EMFAC2021 (the CARB's EPA-approved motor vehicle emission model) for haul trucks and worker commute vehicles were used along with project-specific equipment type/number and truck/worker commute trips to estimate project construction emissions by Excel spreadsheet. Wildcat Creek Fish Passage Emissions (Year 2024) Pollutant: CO2 Site Preparation On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* CO2Fac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Dozer 367 0.40 532.2030 1 5 work days 8.00 hours/day 625019 3125096 625019 3125096 Mower (Landscape)21 0.38 623.7900 1 5 work days 8.00 hours/day 39823 199114 39823 199114 Scraper 423 0.48 528.9680 2 5 work days 8.00 hours/day 1718427 8592133 1718427 8592133 Worker Commute 6 5 work days 2 trips/day 0 0 298.1 14.2 25395 126976 25395 126976 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams) 2,383,269 11,916,343 25,395 126,976 2,408,664 12,043,318 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (metric tons) 2.4 11.9 0.0 0.1 2.4 12.0 Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph Sediment Basin Clearing On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* CO2Fac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Excavator 36 0.38 527.683 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 57750 577496 57750 577496 Front Loader 150 0.36 526.332 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 227375 2273754 227375 2273754 Dump Truck (same as Water)376 0.38 527.763 2 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 1206508 12065084 1206508 12065084 Crane 367 0.29 527.567 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 449192 4491916 449192 4491916 Worker Commute 7.5 10 work days 2 trips/day 0 0 298.1 14.2 31744 317439 31744 317439 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams) 1,940,825 19,408,251 31,744 317,439 1,972,569 19,725,690 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (metric tons) 1.9 19.4 0.0 0.3 2.0 19.7 Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph Fish Passage Structure On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* CO2Fac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Excavator 36 0.38 527.683 1 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 57750 1732489 57750 1732489 Jackhammer (use Compressor)37 0.48 568.361 1 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 80753 2422582 80753 2422582 Worker Commute 3 30 work days 2 trips/day 0 0 298.1 14.2 12698 380927 12698 380927 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams) 138,502 4,155,071 12,698 380,927 151,200 4,535,997 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (metric tons) 0.1 4.2 0.0 0.4 0.2 4.5 Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph Sediment Basin - On-site Equipment On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* CO2Fac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Dozer 367 0.40 532.2030 1 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 625019 18750576 625019 18750576 Water Truck 376 0.38 527.763 1 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 603254 18097627 603254 18097627 Excavator 36 0.38 527.683 1 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 57750 1732489 57750 1732489 Front Loader 150 0.36 526.332 1 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 227375 6821263 227375 6821263 Dump Truck (same as Water)376 0.38 527.763 2 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 1206508 36195253 1206508 36195253 Compactor 8 0.43 568.353 1 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 15641 469232 15641 469232 Worker Commute 10.5 30 work days 2 trips/day 0 0 298.1 14.2 44441 1333243 44441 1333243 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams) 2,735,548 82,066,440 44,441 1,333,243 2,779,989 83,399,683 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (metric tons) 2.7 82.1 0.0 1.3 2.8 83.4 Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph Sediment Basin - Trucks On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* CO2Fac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Debris Haul Truck 1 1 11982.4 6 125 work days 12.7 day 71894 8986763 1702.7 20.0 2588080 323510037 2659974 332496800 Fill Haul Truck 1 1 11982.4 1 35 work days 13 day 11982 419382 1702.7 20.0 442698 15494428 454680 15913810 Concrete Truck 1 1 11982.4 2 35 work days 5 day 23965 838765 1702.7 7.4 125828 4403993 149793 5242758 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams) 107,841 10,244,910 3,156,607 343,408,459 3,264,448 353,653,369 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (metric tons) 0.1 10.2 3.2 343.4 3.3 353.7 Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph Upstream Channel Modifications On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* CO2Fac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Excavator 36 0.38 527.683 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 57750 577496 57750 577496 Front Loader 150 0.36 526.332 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 227375 2273754 227375 2273754 Dump Truck (same as Water)376 0.38 527.763 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 603254 6032542 603254 6032542 Crane 367 0.29 527.567 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 449192 4491916 449192 4491916 Worker Commute 6 10 work days 2 trips/day 0 0 298.1 14.2 25395 253951 25395 253951 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams) 1,337,571 13,375,709 25,395 253,951 1,362,966 13,629,660 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (metric tons) 1.3 13.4 0.0 0.3 1.4 13.6 Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph Community Amenities On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* CO2Fac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Dozer 367 0.40 532.2030 1 20 work days 8.00 hours/day 625019 12500384 625019 12500384 Tractor/Loader/Backhoe 84 0.37 529.933 1 20 work days 8.00 hours/day 131763 2635251 131763 2635251 Water Truck 376 0.38 527.763 1 20 work days 8.00 hours/day 603254 12065084 603254 12065084 Crane 367 0.29 527.567 1 20 work days 8.00 hours/day 449192 8983833 449192 8983833 Forklift 82 0.2 527.04 1 20 work days 8.00 hours/day 69148 1382953 69148 1382953 Paver 81 0.42 526.332 1 20 work days 8.00 hours/day 143247 2864930 143247 2864930 Roller 36 0.38 586.798 1 20 work days 8.00 hours/day 64219 1284383 64219 1284383 Worker Commute 10.5 20 work days 2 trips/day 0 0 298.1 14.2 44441 888829 44441 888829 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams) 2,085,841 41,716,819 44,441 888,829 2,130,282 42,605,648 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (metric tons) 2.1 41.7 0.0 0.9 2.1 42.6 Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph Site clean up and Revegetation On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* CO2Fac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Drill seeder 0 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 0 0 0 0 Hydroseeder 0 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 0 0 0 0 Grader 148 0.41 530.17 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 257366 2573657 257366 2573657 Worker Commute 1.5 10 work days 2 trips/day 0 0 298.1 14.2 6349 63488 6349 63488 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams) 257,366 2,573,657 6,349 63,488 263,715 2,637,145 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (metric tons) 0.3 2.6 0.0 0.1 0.3 2.6 Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph Wildcat Creek Fish Passage Emissions (Year 2024) Pollutant: NOx Site Preparation On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* NOxFac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Dozer 367 0.40 4.0100 1 5 work days 8.00 hours/day 4709 23547 4709 23547 Mower (Landscape)21 0.38 2.2700 1 5 work days 8.00 hours/day 145 725 145 725 Scraper 423 0.48 2.2920 2 5 work days 8.00 hours/day 7446 37229 7446 37229 Worker Commute 6 5 work days 2 trips/day 0 0 0.0489 14.2 4 21 4 21 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams)12,300 61,501 4 21 12,304 61,522 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (lbs)27.1 135.6 0.0 0.0 27.1 135.6 Avg. Day (lbs)Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph 27.1 Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph Sediment Basin Clearing On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* NOxFac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Excavator 36 0.38 6.389 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 699 6992 699 6992 Front Loader 150 0.36 1.902 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 822 8217 822 8217 Dump Truck (same as Water)376 0.38 1.236 2 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 2826 28256 2826 28256 Crane 367 0.29 2.131 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 1814 18144 1814 18144 Worker Commute 7.5 10 work days 2 trips/day 0 0 0.0489 14.2 5 52 5 52 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams)6,161 61,609 5 52 6,166 61,661 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (lbs)13.6 135.8 0.0 0.1 13.6 135.9 Avg. Day (lbs)Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph 13.6 Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph Fish Passage Structure On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* NOxFac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Excavator 36 0.38 6.389 1 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 699 20976 699 20976 Jackhammer (use Compressor)37 0.48 3.865 1 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 549 16474 549 16474 Worker Commute 3 30 work days 2 trips/day 0 0 0.0489 14.2 2 62 2 62 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams)1,248 37,451 2 62 1,250 37,513 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (lbs)2.8 82.6 0.0 0.1 2.8 82.7 Avg. Day (lbs)Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph 2.8 Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph Sediment Basin - On-site Equipment On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* NOxFac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Dozer 367 0.40 4.0100 1 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 4709 141280 4709 141280 Water Truck 376 0.38 1.236 1 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 1413 42384 1413 42384 Excavator 36 0.38 6.389 1 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 699 20976 699 20976 Front Loader 150 0.36 1.902 1 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 822 24650 822 24650 Dump Truck (same as Water)376 0.38 1.236 2 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 2826 84768 2826 84768 Compactor 8 0.43 4.143 1 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 114 3420 114 3420 Worker Commute 10.5 30 work days 2 trips/day 0 0 0.0489 14.2 7 219 7 219 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams)10,583 317,479 7 219 10,590 317,697 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (lbs)23.3 699.9 0.0 0.5 23.3 700.4 Avg. Day (lbs)Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph 23.3 Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph Sediment Basin - Trucks On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* NOxFac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Debris Haul Truck 1 1 62.4167 6 125 work days 12.7 day 374 46812 2.5917 20.0 3939 492425 4314 539237 Fill Haul Truck 1 1 62.4167 1 35 work days 13 day 62 2185 2.5917 20.0 674 23585 736 25769 Concrete Truck 1 1 62.4167 2 35 work days 5 day 125 4369 2.5917 7.4 192 6703 316 11073 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams)562 53,366 4,805 522,713 5,367 576,079 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (lbs)1.2 117.7 10.6 1152.4 11.8 1270.0 Avg. Day (lbs)Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph 10.2 Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph Upstream Channel Modifications On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* NOxFac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Excavator 36 0.38 6.389 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 699 6992 699 6992 Front Loader 150 0.36 1.902 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 822 8217 822 8217 Dump Truck (same as Water)376 0.38 1.236 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 1413 14128 1413 14128 Crane 367 0.29 2.131 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 1814 18144 1814 18144 Worker Commute 6 10 work days 2 trips/day 0 0 0.0489 14.2 4 42 4 42 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams)4,748 47,481 4 42 4,752 47,523 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (lbs)10.5 104.7 0.0 0.1 10.5 104.8 Avg. Day (lbs)Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph 10.5 Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph Community Amenities On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* NOxFac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Dozer 367 0.40 4.0100 1 20 work days 8.00 hours/day 4709 94187 4709 94187 Tractor/Loader/Backhoe 84 0.37 2.192 1 20 work days 8.00 hours/day 545 10900 545 10900 Water Truck 376 0.38 1.236 1 20 work days 8.00 hours/day 1413 28256 1413 28256 Crane 367 0.29 2.131 1 20 work days 8.00 hours/day 1814 36288 1814 36288 Forklift 82 0.2 2.751 1 20 work days 8.00 hours/day 361 7219 361 7219 Paver 81 0.42 2.708 1 20 work days 8.00 hours/day 737 14740 737 14740 Roller 36 0.38 3.814 1 20 work days 8.00 hours/day 417 8348 417 8348 Worker Commute 10.5 20 work days 2 trips/day 0 0 0.0489 14.2 7 146 7 146 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams)9,997 199,938 7 146 10,004 200,084 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (lbs)22.0 440.8 0.0 0.3 22.1 441.1 Avg. Day (lbs)Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph 22.1 Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph Site clean up and Revegetation On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* NOxFac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Drill seeder 0 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 0 0 0 0 Hydroseeder 0 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 0 0 0 0 Grader 148 0.41 3.176 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 1542 15418 1542 15418 Worker Commute 1.5 10 work days 2 trips/day 0 0 0.0489 14.2 1 10 1 10 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams)1,542 15,418 1 10 1,543 15,428 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (lbs)3.4 34.0 0.0 0.0 3.4 34.0 Avg. Day (lbs)Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph 3.4 Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph Wildcat Creek Fish Passage Emissions (Year 2024) Pollutant: PM10 Site Preparation On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* PM10Fac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Dozer 367 0.40 0.1790 1 5 work days 8.00 hours/day 210 1051 210 1051 Mower (Landscape)21 0.38 0.0100 1 5 work days 8.00 hours/day 1 3 1 3 Scraper 423 0.48 0.0890 2 5 work days 8.00 hours/day 289 1446 289 1446 Worker Commute 6 5 work days 2 trips/day 0 0 0.0056 14.2 0 2 0 2 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams)500 2,500 0 2 500 2,502 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (lbs)1.1 5.5 0.0 0.0 1.1 5.5 Avg. Day (lbs)Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph 1.1 Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph Sediment Basin Clearing On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* PM10Fac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Excavator 36 0.38 0.559 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 61 612 61 612 Front Loader 150 0.36 0.102 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 44 441 44 441 Dump Truck (same as Water)376 0.38 0.044 2 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 101 1006 101 1006 Crane 367 0.29 0.086 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 73 732 73 732 Worker Commute 7.5 10 work days 2 trips/day 0 0 0.0056 14.2 1 6 1 6 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams)279 2,791 1 6 280 2,796 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (lbs)0.6 6.2 0.0 0.0 0.6 6.2 Avg. Day (lbs)Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph 0.6 Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph Fish Passage Structure On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* PM10Fac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Excavator 36 0.38 0.559 1 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 61 1835 61 1835 Jackhammer (use Compressor)37 0.48 0.136 1 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 19 580 19 580 Worker Commute 3 30 work days 2 trips/day 0 0 0.0056 14.2 0 7 0 7 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams)80 2,415 0 7 81 2,422 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (lbs)0.2 5.3 0.0 0.0 0.2 5.3 Avg. Day (lbs)Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph 0.2 Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph Sediment Basin - On-site Equipment On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* PM10Fac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Dozer 367 0.40 0.1790 1 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 210 6307 210 6307 Water Truck 376 0.38 0.044 1 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 50 1509 50 1509 Excavator 36 0.38 0.559 1 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 61 1835 61 1835 Front Loader 150 0.36 0.102 1 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 44 1322 44 1322 Dump Truck (same as Water)376 0.38 0.044 2 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 101 3018 101 3018 Compactor 8 0.43 0.162 1 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 4 134 4 134 Worker Commute 10.5 30 work days 2 trips/day 0 0 0.0056 14.2 1 25 1 25 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams)471 14,124 1 25 472 14,149 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (lbs)1.0 31.1 0.0 0.1 1.0 31.2 Avg. Day (lbs)Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph 1.0 Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph Sediment Basin - Trucks On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* PM10Fac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Debris Haul Truck 1 1 0.0333 6 125 work days 12.7 day 0 25 0.0115 20.0 17 2181 18 2206 Fill Haul Truck 1 1 0.0333 1 35 work days 13 day 0 1 0.0115 20.0 3 104 3 106 Concrete Truck 1 1 0.0333 2 35 work days 5 day 0 2 0.0115 7.4 1 30 1 32 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams)0 28 21 2,315 22 2,343 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (lbs)0.0 0.1 0.0 5.1 0.0 5.2 Avg. Day (lbs)Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph 0.0 Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph Upstream Channel Modifications On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* PM10Fac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Excavator 36 0.38 0.559 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 61 612 61 612 Front Loader 150 0.36 0.102 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 44 441 44 441 Dump Truck (same as Water)376 0.38 0.044 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 50 503 50 503 Crane 367 0.29 0.086 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 73 732 73 732 Worker Commute 6 10 work days 2 trips/day 0 0 0.0056 14.2 0 5 0 5 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams)229 2,288 0 5 229 2,292 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (lbs)0.5 5.0 0.0 0.0 0.5 5.1 Avg. Day (lbs)Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph 0.5 Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph Community Amenities On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* PM10Fac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Dozer 367 0.40 0.1790 1 20 work days 8.00 hours/day 210 4204 210 4204 Tractor/Loader/Backhoe 84 0.37 0.097 1 20 work days 8.00 hours/day 24 482 24 482 Water Truck 376 0.38 0.044 1 20 work days 8.00 hours/day 50 1006 50 1006 Crane 367 0.29 0.086 1 20 work days 8.00 hours/day 73 1464 73 1464 Forklift 82 0.2 0.157 1 20 work days 8.00 hours/day 21 412 21 412 Paver 81 0.42 0.144 1 20 work days 8.00 hours/day 39 784 39 784 Roller 36 0.38 0.192 1 20 work days 8.00 hours/day 21 420 21 420 Worker Commute 10.5 20 work days 2 trips/day 0 0 0.0056 14.2 1 17 1 17 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams)439 8,773 1 17 439 8,790 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (lbs)1.0 19.3 0.0 0.0 1.0 19.4 Avg. Day (lbs)Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph 1.0 Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph Site clean up and Revegetation On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* PM10Fac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Drill seeder 0 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 0 0 0 0 Hydroseeder 0 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 0 0 0 0 Grader 148 0.41 0.175 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 85 850 85 850 Worker Commute 1.5 10 work days 2 trips/day 0 0 0.0056 14.2 0 1 0 1 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams)85 850 0 1 85 851 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (lbs)0.2 1.9 0.0 0.0 0.2 1.9 Avg. Day (lbs)Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph 0.2 Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph Wildcat Creek Fish Passage Emissions (Year 2024) Pollutant: PM25 Site Preparation On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* PM25Fac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Dozer 367 0.40 0.1640 1 5 work days 8.00 hours/day 193 963 193 963 Mower (Landscape)21 0.38 0.0100 1 5 work days 8.00 hours/day 1 3 1 3 Scraper 423 0.48 0.0810 2 5 work days 8.00 hours/day 263 1316 263 1316 Worker Commute 6 5 work days 2 trips/day 0 0 0.0054 14.2 0 2 0 2 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams)456 2,282 0 2 457 2,284 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (lbs)1.0 5.0 0.0 0.0 1.0 5.0 Avg. Day (lbs)Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph 1.0 Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph Sediment Basin Clearing On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* PM25Fac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Excavator 36 0.38 0.514 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 56 563 56 563 Front Loader 150 0.36 0.094 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 41 406 41 406 Dump Truck (same as Water)376 0.38 0.041 2 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 94 937 94 937 Crane 367 0.29 0.079 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 67 673 67 673 Worker Commute 7.5 10 work days 2 trips/day 0 0 0.0054 14.2 1 6 1 6 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams)258 2,579 1 6 258 2,584 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (lbs)0.6 5.7 0.0 0.0 0.6 5.7 Avg. Day (lbs)Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph 0.6 Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph Fish Passage Structure On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* PM25Fac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Excavator 36 0.38 0.514 1 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 56 1688 56 1688 Jackhammer (use Compressor)37 0.48 0.125 1 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 18 533 18 533 Worker Commute 3 30 work days 2 trips/day 0 0 0.0054 14.2 0 7 0 7 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams)74 2,220 0 7 74 2,227 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (lbs)0.2 4.9 0.0 0.0 0.2 4.9 Avg. Day (lbs)Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph 0.2 Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph Sediment Basin - On-site Equipment On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* PM25Fac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Dozer 367 0.40 0.1640 1 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 193 5778 193 5778 Water Truck 376 0.38 0.041 1 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 47 1406 47 1406 Excavator 36 0.38 0.514 1 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 56 1688 56 1688 Front Loader 150 0.36 0.094 1 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 41 1218 41 1218 Dump Truck (same as Water)376 0.38 0.041 2 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 94 2812 94 2812 Compactor 8 0.43 0.149 1 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 4 123 4 123 Worker Commute 10.5 30 work days 2 trips/day 0 0 0.0054 14.2 1 24 1 24 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams)434 13,025 1 24 435 13,049 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (lbs)1.0 28.7 0.0 0.1 1.0 28.8 Avg. Day (lbs)Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph 1.0 Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph Sediment Basin - Trucks On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* PM25Fac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Debris Haul Truck 1 1 0.0319 6 125 work days 12.7 day 0 24 0.0110 20.0 17 2086 17 2110 Fill Haul Truck 1 1 0.0319 1 35 work days 13 day 0 1 0.0110 20.0 3 100 3 101 Concrete Truck 1 1 0.0319 2 35 work days 5 day 0 2 0.0110 7.4 1 28 1 31 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams)0 27 20 2,215 21 2,242 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (lbs)0.0 0.1 0.0 4.9 0.0 4.9 Avg. Day (lbs)Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph 0.0 Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph Upstream Channel Modifications On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* PM25Fac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Excavator 36 0.38 0.514 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 56 563 56 563 Front Loader 150 0.36 0.094 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 41 406 41 406 Dump Truck (same as Water)376 0.38 0.041 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 47 469 47 469 Crane 367 0.29 0.079 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 67 673 67 673 Worker Commute 6 10 work days 2 trips/day 0 0 0.0054 14.2 0 5 0 5 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams)211 2,110 0 5 211 2,114 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (lbs)0.5 4.7 0.0 0.0 0.5 4.7 Avg. Day (lbs)Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph 0.5 Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph Community Amenities On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* PM25Fac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Dozer 367 0.40 0.1640 1 20 work days 8.00 hours/day 193 3852 193 3852 Tractor/Loader/Backhoe 84 0.37 0.089 1 20 work days 8.00 hours/day 22 443 22 443 Water Truck 376 0.38 0.041 1 20 work days 8.00 hours/day 47 937 47 937 Crane 367 0.29 0.079 1 20 work days 8.00 hours/day 67 1345 67 1345 Forklift 82 0.2 0.145 1 20 work days 8.00 hours/day 19 380 19 380 Paver 81 0.42 0.133 1 20 work days 8.00 hours/day 36 724 36 724 Roller 36 0.38 0.177 1 20 work days 8.00 hours/day 19 387 19 387 Worker Commute 10.5 20 work days 2 trips/day 0 0 0.0054 14.2 1 16 1 16 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams)403 8,069 1 16 404 8,085 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (lbs)0.9 17.8 0.0 0.0 0.9 17.8 Avg. Day (lbs)Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph 0.9 Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph Site clean up and Revegetation On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* PM25Fac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Drill seeder 0 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 0 0 0 0 Hydroseeder 0 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 0 0 0 0 Grader 148 0.41 0.161 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 78 782 78 782 Worker Commute 1.5 10 work days 2 trips/day 0 0 0.0054 14.2 0 1 0 1 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams)78 782 0 1 78 783 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (lbs)0.2 1.7 0.0 0.0 0.2 1.7 Avg. Day (lbs)Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph 0.2 Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph Wildcat Creek Fish Passage Emissions (Year 2024) Pollutant: ROG 1 Site Preparation On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* ROGFac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Dozer 367 0.40 0.4860 1 5 work days 8.00 hours/day 571 2854 571 2854 Mower (Landscape)21 0.38 5.2700 1 5 work days 8.00 hours/day 336 1682 336 1682 Scraper 423 0.48 0.2290 2 5 work days 8.00 hours/day 744 3720 744 3720 Worker Commute 6 5 work days 2 trips/day 0 0 0.0149 14.2 1 6 1 6 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams)1,651 8,256 1 6 1,652 8,262 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (lbs)3.6 18.2 0.0 0.0 3.6 18.2 Avg. Day (lbs)Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph 3.6 Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph 2 Sediment Basin Clearing On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* ROGFac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Excavator 36 0.38 0.415 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 45 454 45 454 Front Loader 150 0.36 0.248 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 107 1071 107 1071 Dump Truck (same as Water)376 0.38 0.183 2 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 418 4184 418 4184 Crane 367 0.29 0.21 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 179 1788 179 1788 Worker Commute 7.5 10 work days 2 trips/day 0 0 0.0149 14.2 2 16 2 16 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams)750 7,497 2 16 751 7,513 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (lbs)1.7 16.5 0.0 0.0 1.7 16.6 Avg. Day (lbs)Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph 1.7 Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph 3a Fish Passage Structure On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* ROGFac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Excavator 36 0.38 0.415 1 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 45 1363 45 1363 Jackhammer (use Compressor)37 0.48 0.581 1 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 83 2476 83 2476 Worker Commute 3 30 work days 2 trips/day 0 0 0.0149 14.2 1 19 1 19 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams)128 3,839 1 19 129 3,858 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (lbs)0.3 8.5 0.0 0.0 0.3 8.5 Avg. Day (lbs)Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph 0.3 Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph 3b Sediment Basin - On-site Equipment On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* ROGFac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Dozer 367 0.40 0.4860 1 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 571 17123 571 17123 Water Truck 376 0.38 0.183 1 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 209 6275 209 6275 Excavator 36 0.38 0.415 1 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 45 1363 45 1363 Front Loader 150 0.36 0.248 1 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 107 3214 107 3214 Dump Truck (same as Water)376 0.38 0.183 2 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 418 12551 418 12551 Compactor 8 0.43 0.547 1 30 work days 8.00 hours/day 15 452 15 452 Worker Commute 10.5 30 work days 2 trips/day 0 0 0.0149 14.2 2 67 2 67 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams)1,366 40,977 2 67 1,368 41,044 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (lbs)3.0 90.3 0.0 0.1 3.0 90.5 Avg. Day (lbs)Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph 3.0 Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph 3c Sediment Basin - Trucks On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* ROGFac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Debris Haul Truck 1 1 5.0849 6 125 work days 12.7 day 31 3814 0.0196 20.0 30 3732 60 7546 Fill Haul Truck 1 1 5.0849 1 35 work days 13 day 5 178 0.0196 20.0 5 179 10 357 Concrete Truck 1 1 5.0849 2 35 work days 5 day 10 356 0.0196 7.4 1 51 12 407 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams)46 4,348 36 3,962 82 8,310 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (lbs)0.1 9.6 0.1 8.7 0.2 18.3 Avg. Day (lbs)Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph 0.1 Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph 3d Upstream Channel Modifications On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* ROGFac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Excavator 36 0.38 0.415 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 45 454 45 454 Front Loader 150 0.36 0.248 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 107 1071 107 1071 Dump Truck (same as Water)376 0.38 0.183 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 209 2092 209 2092 Crane 367 0.29 0.21 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 179 1788 179 1788 Worker Commute 6 10 work days 2 trips/day 0 0 0.0149 14.2 1 13 1 13 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams)541 5,405 1 13 542 5,418 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (lbs)1.2 11.9 0.0 0.0 1.2 11.9 Avg. Day (lbs)Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph 1.2 Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph 3e Community Amenities On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* ROGFac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Dozer 367 0.40 0.4860 1 20 work days 8.00 hours/day 571 11415 571 11415 Tractor/Loader/Backhoe 84 0.37 0.215 1 20 work days 8.00 hours/day 53 1069 53 1069 Water Truck 376 0.38 0.183 1 20 work days 8.00 hours/day 209 4184 209 4184 Crane 367 0.29 0.21 1 20 work days 8.00 hours/day 179 3576 179 3576 Forklift 82 0.2 0.292 1 20 work days 8.00 hours/day 38 766 38 766 Paver 81 0.42 0.248 1 20 work days 8.00 hours/day 67 1350 67 1350 Roller 36 0.38 0.618 1 20 work days 8.00 hours/day 68 1353 68 1353 Worker Commute 10.5 20 work days 2 trips/day 0 0 0.0149 14.2 2 44 2 44 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams)1,186 23,713 2 44 1,188 23,757 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (lbs)2.6 52.3 0.0 0.1 2.6 52.4 Avg. Day (lbs)Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph 2.6 Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph 4 Site clean up and Revegetation On- Site Off-Site Total EQUIPMENT hp* LoadFac* ROGFac* Quantity T DURATION UNIT D DURATION UNIT DayEmis TotEmis Emfac Length DayEmis TotEmis DayEmis TotEmis Drill seeder 0 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 0 0 0 0 Hydroseeder 0 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 0 0 0 0 Grader 148 0.41 0.361 1 10 work days 8.00 hours/day 175 1752 175 1752 Worker Commute 1.5 10 work days 2 trips/day 0 0 0.0149 14.2 0 3 0 3 * Equipment: CalEEMod 2022.1.1.3 Appendix G Tot (grams)175 1,752 0 3 176 1,756 Haul Truck: EMFAC 2021 HHD Idle Tot (lbs)0.4 3.9 0.0 0.0 0.4 3.9 Avg. Day (lbs)Haul Truck: EMFAC2021 HHDT 35 mph 0.4 Worker Commute: EMFAC2021 LDT2 35 mph \\PW-DATA\grpdata\engsvc\ENVIRO\Client Divisions\Flood Control\Wildcat Fish Passage and Community Engagement (WO8101)\CEQA\Staff Report\NOD_20240806.docx Authority cited: Sections 21083, Public Resources Code. Reference Section 21000-21174, Public Resources Code. CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT NOTICE OF DETERMINATION To: From: Office of Planning and Research Contra Costa County For U.S. Mail: Street Address: Dept. of Conservation and Development P.O. Box 3044 1400 Tenth St., Rm 113 30 Muir Road Sacramento, CA 95812-3044 Sacramento, CA 95814 Martinez, CA 94553 (925) 655-2705 County Clerk County of: Contra Costa 555 Escobar Street Martinez, CA 94553 Project Lead Agency: Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development, 30 Muir Rd., Martinez, CA 94553 Phone: 925-655-2705 State Clearinghouse Number: 2024070139 Project Title: Wildcat Creek Fish Passage and Community Engagement Project, WO#8101, CP#22-17 Project Applicant: Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District, 255 Glacier Drive, Martinez, CA 94553 Project Location: Along Wildcat Creek between Rumrill Boulevard and 6th Street, unincorporated North Richmond and the Cities of Richmond and San Pablo, APNS: 409-300-XXX, 409-300-036, 409-311- 001, 409-312-XXX, 409-320-XXX, 411-020-XXX, 411-020-034, 411-030-007 Lead Agency Contact: Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development, Syd Sotoodeh, (925) 655-2877, syd.sotoodeh@dcd.cccounty.us Project Description: The purpose of this project is to improve habitat connectivity for aquatic species, including Central California Coast steelhead trout, improve stormwater conveyance through Wildcat Creek, and provide community amenities. Project activities include retrofitting an existing fish ladder within the Lower Wildcat Creek Flood Control Channel to create a more natural fish passage corridor. Downstream of the fish ladder, the existing sediment basin will be expanded and desilted to increase sediment storage capacity. Training berms and maintenance access ramps will be constructed within the sediment basin to stabilize the low flow channel of Wildcat Creek to enhance fish passage. Upstream of the fish ladder, the Wildcat Creek channel will be modified by removing riprap to improve sediment transport. In the parcel adjacent to the fish ladder, community amenities will include trail improvements, overlook areas, interpretive features, and potential recreational and educational areas. Utility relocations and right of way transactions may be necessary. The project was approved on: _________________ 1. The project [ will will not] have a significant effect on the environment. 2. An Environmental Impact Report was prepared for this project pursuant to the provisions of CEQA. A Mitigated Negative Declaration was prepared for this project pursuant to the provisions of CEQA. 3. Mitigation measures [ were were not] made a condition of the approval of the project. 4. A mitigation reporting or monitoring plan [ was was not] adopted for this project. 5. A statement of Overriding Considerations [ was was not] adopted for this project. 6. Findings [ were were not] made pursuant to the provisions of CEQA. Notice of Determination sent to Office of Planning and Research. This is to certify that the final Environmental Impact Report with comments and responses and record of project approval, or the Negative Declaration, is available to the General Public at: Contra Costa County Department of Conservation & Development, 30 Muir Road, Martinez, CA 94553 Signature: _______________________ Title: ________________________ Print Name: _______________________ Date: ________________________ Date Received for filing at OPR: ________________________ AFFIDAVIT OF FILING AND POSTING I declare that on ____________________________________________ I received and posted this notice as required by California Public Resources Code Section 21152(c). Said notice will remain posted for 30 days from the filing date. Signature: _______________________________ Title: _______________________________ Department of Fish and Wildlife Fees Due: Applicant's Name: Public Works Department 255 Glacier Drive Martinez, CA 94553 EIR - $4,051.25 Total Due: $ Address: x Neg. Dec. - $2,916.75 Total Paid: $ x County Clerk - $50.00 Receipt # Phone: (925) 313-2015 x DCD- $25.00 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2775 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/22/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:AWARD and AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director, or designee, to execute a construction contract in the amount of $7,494,000 with D.L. Falk Construction Inc., for the Oak Grove Center Project, 1034 Oak Grove Road, Concord area. (13% Federal, 87% Measure X Funds) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Warren Lai, Public Works Director/Chief Engineer Report Title:Construction Contract for the Oak Grove Center at 1034 Oak Grove Road in Concord. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: (1)APPROVE the plans, specifications and design for the above Project. (2)ACCEPT the request of Bjork Construction Company Inc. (Bjork), the apparent low bidder, to withdraw its bid. (3)DETERMINE that the bid submitted by D.L. Falk Construction Inc. (Falk) complies with all requirements of the Project specifications, including the requirements of the County’s Outreach Program. (4)WAIVE any minor irregularities in Falk’s bid. (5)FURTHER DETERMINE that Falk submitted the lowest responsive and responsible bid for this Project. (6)CONFIRM the rejection and denial of the bid protest submitted by Falk, said bid protest having been found moot as the result of the withdrawal its bid by the apparent lowest bidder, Bjork. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 4 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2775,Version:1 (7)AWARD the construction contract for the above Project to Falk in the listed amount ($7,494,000) submitted in the bid, and DIRECT the Public Works Director, or designee, to prepare the contract. (8)DIRECT that Falk shall submit two good and sufficient security bonds (performance and payment bonds) in the amount of $7,494,000 each. (9)DIRECT that, as a condition of contract award, Falk and its subcontractors shall execute a Project Labor Agreement for this Project, as required by the Project specifications. (10)ORDER that, after Falk, has signed the contract and returned it, together with the bonds, evidence of insurance, and other required documents, and the Public Works Director has reviewed and found them to be sufficient, the Public Works Director or designee, is authorized to sign the contract for this Board. (11)ORDER that, in accordance with the Project specifications and upon signature of the construction contract by the Public Works Director or designee, any bid bonds posted by the bidders are exonerated and any checks or cash submitted for bid security shall be returned. (12)AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director or designee, to sign any escrow agreements prepared for this Project to permit the direct payment of retention into escrow for the substitution of securities for monies withheld by the County to ensure performance under the contract, pursuant to Public Contract Code Section 2230. (13)AUTHORIZE the Public Works Director, or designee, to order changes or additions to the work pursuant to Public Contract Code Section 20142 in a total amount not to exceed $749,000 (i.e. 10% of the contract award amount). (14)DELEGATE, pursuant to Public Contract Code Section 4114, to the Public Works Director, or designee, the Board’s functions under Public Contract Code Sections 4107 and 4110. (15)DECLARE that, should the award of the contract to Falk be invalidated for any reason, the fails to furnish required bonds or insurance (see Public Contract Code Sections Board would not in any event have awarded the contract to any other bidder, but instead would have exercised its discretion to reject the bids received. Nothing in this Board Order shall prevent the Board from re-awarding the contract to another bidder in cases where the successful bidder establishes a mistake, refuses to sign the contract, or 5100- 5107). FISCAL IMPACT: $1,000,000 will be funded through a Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Federal grant and the CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 4 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2775,Version:1 remainder will be funded through Measure X. BACKGROUND: The Contra Costa County Health Services Department (Behavioral Health Services) proposes the renovation of two existing buildings located at 1034 Oak Grove Road, Concord to be used as a Crisis Hub Center to enhance mental health support services in the County. The Crisis Call Center will be used as a dispatch center for County staff and providers contracted with the County to assist residents and direct them to the appropriate County services. The Project site includes two structures built at different periods: one constructed and expanded between 1959 and 1964, and the other erected between 1993 and 2002. The larger building will undergo extensive renovation to accommodate three main functions: a Crisis Call Center, a "Recharge" Center, and a drop-in day clinic. The smaller building will primarily serve as a meeting space for group and individual counseling sessions. Site work will include landscaping, fencing, parking lot adjustments, onsite storm drainage and utility improvements. Existing landscaping will be preserved, with new irrigation and lighting installations planned. Sidewalks will be replaced to comply with applicable accessibility standards and the existing parking lot will be resurfaced and restriped. Because the larger of the existing buildings was constructed over 50 years ago, the environmental review process requires that a historical evaluation be conducted to determine the building’s historical significance and a determination be made on its eligibility for listing on the National Register of Historic Places or the California Register of Historic Resources. The completed evaluation determined that the building is not eligible for listing on either register. The evaluation report was submitted to the California State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) for review and concurrence. The SHPO concurred with the finding. As part of the SHPO process, the County notified Native American tribes of the proposed Project and one tribe, the Wilton Rancheria, requested consultation regarding the planned soil excavation work. The Wilton Rancheria tribe requested that they provide training in Native American cultural resources to the construction crew prior to soil excavation work commencing on-site. In addition, they provided an Inadvertent Discovery Treatment Plan to be used as a guide by the construction contractor should there be a discovery of cultural resources materials during excavation work on the site. Permits for the Project have been issued by Contra Costa County Fire Protection District and Department of Conservation and Development. On June 4, 2024, this Board approved the design and bid documents for the construction of this Project and authorized the solicitation of bids in accordance with Public Contract Code Section 22037. The Construction cost estimate was $6,145,000. General prevailing wage rates will be the minimum rates paid on this Project. Nine bids were received and opened by the Public Works Department on July 18, 2024, and the bid results are as follows: BIDDER BID AMOUNT Bjork $7,481,500 Falk $7,494,000 Arana Group $8,370,882 Plant Construction $8,538,620 FRC, Inc.$8,670,882 WE Lyons Construction $8,753,770 MVP Construction LLC.$9,000,000 Buhler Commercial $9,150,000 Dowdle & Sons, Mechanical Inc.$10,527,000 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 3 of 4 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2775,Version:1 BIDDER BID AMOUNTBjork$7,481,500Falk$7,494,000 Arana Group $8,370,882 Plant Construction $8,538,620 FRC, Inc.$8,670,882 WE Lyons Construction $8,753,770 MVP Construction LLC.$9,000,000 Buhler Commercial $9,150,000 Dowdle & Sons, Mechanical Inc.$10,527,000 Following the receipt of bids by the County on July 23, 2024, the second lowest bidder, Falk, whose bid was $12,500 higher than the low bid, filed a bid protest with the Public Works Department contesting the low bid submitted by Bjork. On July 24, 2024, Bjork withdrew their bid based on a significant math error which resulted in a bid which was $203,000 lower than needed to perform the work. Public Contract Code Section 5103 provides that a contractor may obtain relief from the responsibility to perform on a bid for a public contract if it can establish that: (a)A mistake was made; (b)The contractor gave the public entity written notice within five days after the opening of the bids of the mistake, specifying in the notice in detail how the mistake occurred; (c)The mistake made the bid materially different than intended; and (d)The mistake was made in filling out the bid and not due to an error in judgment or to carelessness in inspecting the site of the work, or in reading the plans or specifications. The Public Works Department reviewed the request and supporting documents submitted by Bjork and agreed that the multiplier error in the bid table resulted in a significant math error in the bid total. As a result, the Public Work Department has found Falk to be the lowest bidder for the Project. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Without Board of Supervisors approval, the Project will not be constructed, and the County will not be able to provide planned expanded services to vulnerable residents struggling with mental health and addiction issues. In addition, the County will not be able to centrally locate its Crisis Call Center which is intended to reduce the volume of calls to the 911 system. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 4 of 4 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2776 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/21/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:DECLARE as surplus and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to dispose of fully depreciated vehicles and equipment no longer needed for public use, as recommended by the Public Works Director, Countywide. (No fiscal impact) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass RECOMMENDATION(S): DECLARE as surplus and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to dispose of fully depreciated vehicles and equipment no longer needed for public use, as recommended by the Public Works Director, Countywide. FISCAL IMPACT: No fiscal impact. BACKGROUND: Section 1108-2.212 of the County Ordinance Code authorizes the Purchasing Agent to dispose of any personal property belonging to Contra Costa County and found by the Board of Supervisors not to be required for public use. The property for disposal is either obsolete, worn out, beyond economical repair, or damaged beyond repair. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Public Works would not be able to dispose of surplus vehicles and equipment. CHILDREN'S IMPACT STATEMENT: CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 1 powered by Legistar™ 1 FLEET DIVISION (26) DEADLINE VEHICLES SEPTEMBER 10, 2024 BOS MEETING Item Department Description/Unit/Make/Model Serial No. Condition A. Obsolete B. Worn Out C. Beyond Economical Repair D. Damaged Beyond Repair 1. DA INVESTIGATIONS/ UNDERCOVER VEHICLE **VEHICLE TO BE DONATED TO CBO ** 2013 FORD EDGE SUV / Color: Gray UNIT 3739 LICENSE PLATE: 7AAM521 MILES: 110,914 VIN: 2FMDK3GC4DBB83545 B. WORN OUT SOLD AS-IS 2. DA INVESTIGATIONS 2011 TOYOTA CAMRY/ Color: Blue UNIT 1234 LICENSE PLATE: 6REU829 MILES: 155,410 VIN: 4T1BB3EK2BU140296 C. Beyond Economical Repair SOLD AS-IS 3. SHERIFF 2018 FORD POLICE INTERCEPTOR Color: Blk & White UNIT 2589 LICENSE PLATE: 1556023 MILES: 89,763 VIN: 1FAH2MT1JG135064 C. Beyond Economical Repair SOLD AS-IS 4. DA INVESTIGATIONS 2016 FORD FUSION / Color: White UNIT 0965 LICENSE PLATE: 7SRZ795 MILES: 146,338 VIN: 3FA6P0LU5GR388606 B. WORN OUT SOLD AS-IS 5. DA INVESTIGATIONS 2014 FORD FUSION / Color: Gray UNIT 0839 LICENSE PLATE: 1448531 MILES: 153,936 VIN: 3FA6P0H97ER245013 D. Damaged Beyond Repair SOLD AS-IS 6. DA INVESTIGATIONS 2014 FORD TAURUS / Color: White UNIT 1081 LICENSE PLATE: 1435060 MILES: 106,843 VIN: 1FAHP2D81EG122154 B. WORN OUT SOLD AS-IS 7. SHERIFF 2009 TOYOTA PRIUS / Color: Blue UNIT 1113 LICENSE PLATE: 1319636 MILES: 52,243 VIN: JTDKB20U297865185 B. WORN OUT SOLD AS-IS 8. SHERIFF 2009 TOYOTA PRIUS / Color: Green UNIT 1100 LICENSE PLATE: 1319632 MILES: 81,023 VIN: JTDKB20U393501137 C. Beyond Economical Repair SOLD AS-IS 9. SHERIFF 2009 TOYOTA PRIUS /Color: Gray UNIT 1109 LICENSE PLATE: 1319641 MILES: 36,847 VIN: JTDKB20U793504316 B. WORN OUT SOLD AS-IS 10. SHERIFF 2019 FORD INTERCEPTOR / Color: Black UNIT 2341 LICENSE PLATE: 1563894 MILES: 45,205 VIN: 1FAHP2MT9KG108132 D. Damaged Beyond Repair-Not Drivable SOLD AS-IS 11. DA INVESTIGATIONS 2015 FORD INTERCEPTOR / Color: Black UNIT 2553 LICENSE PLATE: 7KVT273 MILES: 108,856 VIN: 1FAHP2MT8FG159630 B. WORN OUT SOLD AS-IS 12. SHERIFF 2018 FORD INTERCEPTOR / Color: Blk & White UNIT 2587 LICENSE PLATE: 1556905 MILES: 111,181 VIN: 1FAHP2MT3JG135065 D. Damaged Beyond Repair-Not Drivable SOLD AS-IS 2 13. SHERIFF 2017 FORD INTERCEPTOR / Color: Blk & White UNIT 2569 LICENSE PLATE: 1526591 MILES: 133,592 VIN: 1FAHP2MT4HG122805 C. Beyond Economical Repair SOLD AS-IS 14. SHERIFF 2017 FORD INTERCEPTOR / Color: Blk & White UNIT 2579 LICENSE PLATE: 1533599 MILES: 115,137 VIN: 1FAHP2MT7HG135290 C. Beyond Economical Repair SOLD AS-IS 15. SHERIFF 2016 FORD TAURUS / Color: Blk & White UNIT 3606 LICENSE PLATE: 1497389 MILES: 113,802 VIN: 1FM5K8AT9GGB74041 C. Beyond Economical Repair SOLD AS-IS 16. PROBATION 2010 FORD ESCAPE / Color: Steel Blue UNIT 3714 LICENSE PLATE: 6JET461 MILES: 104,685 VIN: 1FMCU5K30AKB19738 B. WORN OUT SOLD AS-IS 17. MARTINEZ DETENTION INFIRMARY 2006 FORD ESCAPE / Color: White UNIT 3677 LICENSE PLATE: 1218020 MILES: 128,517 VIN: 1FMYU96H06KA39723 D. Damaged Beyond Repair SOLD AS-IS 18. GENERAL SERVICES / COURIER SERVICE 2016 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT CARGO / Color: White UNIT 4343 LICENSE PLATE: 1497424 MILES: 120,282 VIN: NM0LS7EX8G1254921 C. Beyond Economical Repair SOLD AS-IS 19. GENERAL SERVICES 2011 FORD E-250 / Color: White UNIT 4691 LICENSE PLATE: 1358922 MILES: 113,311 VIN: 1FTNE2EL3BDA25797 B. WORN OUT SOLD AS-IS 20. PUBLIC WORKS / ROAD MTCE 2006 FORD F-550 / Color: White UNIT 6867 LICENSE PLATE: 1223558 MILES: 124,642 VIN: 1FDAF56P86EA04129 C. Beyond Economical Repair SOLD AS-IS 21. HEALTH SERVICES 2016 FORD F-150 / Color: White UNIT 5274 LICENSE PLATE: 1583913 MILES: 40,892 VIN: 1FTEX1C87GKF21059 C. Beyond Economical Repair SOLD AS-IS 22. HEALTH SERVICES 2003 CHEVROLET S-10 / Color: Gray UNIT 6153 LICENSE PLATE: 1100360 MILES: 67,800 VIN: 1GCDT13X13K141420 C. Beyond Economical Repair SOLD AS-IS 23. PUBLIC WORKS/ CUSTODIAL 2010 FORD E-150 / Color: White UNIT 4678 LICENSE PLATE: 1342708 MILES: 99,459 VIN: 1FTNE1EL5ADA22988 B. WORN OUT SOLD AS-IS 24. SHERIFF 2015 FORD TAURUS INTERCEPTOR Color: Blk / White UNIT 2551 LICENSE PLATE: 1470090 MILES: 93,127 VIN: 1FAHP2MT8FG151821 B. WORN OUT SOLD AS-IS 25. AIRPORT 2021 COMFORT OF HOME NATIONAL RESTROOM PORTA-POTTY TRAILER Model: 3st restroom/ Color: White UNIT 8564 Color: White VIN: 4C9TN172MA081744 B. Worn Out SOLD AS-IS 26. PROBATION 2001 HONDA CIVIC / Color: Gray UNIT 0208 LICENSE PLATE: 1096770 MILES: 55,118 VIN: 1HGEN26471L00091 B. WORN OUT SOLD AS-IS 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2777 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/27/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:RECEIVE report concerning the final settlement of Rachelle Clay vs. Contra Costa County; and AUTHORIZE payment from the Workers' Compensation Internal Service Fund in an amount not to exceed $74,000 as recommended by the Director of Risk Management. (100% Workers' Compensation Internal Service Fund) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Karen Caoile, Director of Risk Management Report Title:Final Settlement of Claim, Rachelle Clay vs. Contra Costa County ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: RECEIVE this report concerning the final settlement of Rachelle Clay and AUTHORIZE payment from the Workers' Compensation Internal Service Fund in an amount not to exceed $74,000. FISCAL IMPACT: Workers' Compensation Internal Service Fund payment of $74,000. BACKGROUND: Attorney Mark A. Cartier, defense counsel for the County, has advised the County Administrator that within authorization an agreement has been reached settling the workers' compensation claim of Rachelle Clay vs. Contra Costa County. The Board's August 13, 2024 closed session vote was: Supervisors Gioia, Andersen, Burgis, Carlson and Glover - Yes. This action is taken so that the terms of this final settlement and the earlier August 13, 2024 closed session vote of this Board authorizing its negotiated settlement are known publicly. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Case will not be settled. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2777,Version:1 CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2778 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/28/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:DENY claims filed by Gionni Brown; Roy C. Davi; Blanca Dolores; Andrew Fiscina; Sean O’Toole (3); Mori Starelli; SubroClaims/Geico Ins.; Gerardo Torres; Gustavo Torres; Jesus Torres; Janet Torres; and Maria del Carmen Torres Zaragoza. Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:Monica Nino, County Administrator Report Title:Claims ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: DENY claims filed by Gionni Brown; Roy C. Davi; Blanca Dolores; Andrew Fiscina; Sean O’Toole (3); Mori Starelli; SubroClaims/Geico Ins.; Gerardo Torres; Gustavo Torres; Jesus Torres; Janet Torres; and Maria del Carmen Torres Zaragoza. FISCAL IMPACT: No fiscal impact. BACKGROUND: Gionni Brown: Property claim for lost phone in the amount of $1200. Roy C. Davi: Personal injury claim related to bicycle accident in the amount of $2,415.88. Blanca Dolores: Personal injury claim related to bus incident in an amount to be determined. Andrew Fiscina: Property claim for damage to vehicle in the amount of $10,133. Sean O’Toole: Property claim for damage to vehicle in the amount of $137.85. Sean O’Toole: Property claim for damage to vehicle in the amount of $150. Sean O’Toole: Property claim for damage to vehicle in the amount of $130.67. Mori Starelli: Personal injury claim for trip and fall in the amount of $500,000. SubroClaims/Geico Insurance: Property claim for damage to vehicle in the amount of $2,476.80. Gerardo Torres: Wrongful death claim related to alleged dangerous condition in an amount to exceed $35,000. Gustavo Torres: Wrongful death claim related to alleged dangerous condition in an amount to exceed $35,000. Janet Torres: Wrongful death claim related to alleged dangerous condition in an amount to exceed $35,000. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2778,Version:1 Jesus Torres: Wrongful death claim related to alleged dangerous condition in an amount to exceed $35,000. Maria del Carmen Torres Zaragoza: Wrongful death claim related to alleged dangerous condition in an amount to exceed $35,000. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Not acting on the claims could extend the claimants’ time limits to file actions against the County. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2779 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:3/28/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Sheriff-Coroner, or designee, to execute a contract with GovernmentJobs.com, Inc. d/b/a NEOGOV, in an amount not to exceed $99,000 for a hosted policy management software application, for the period October 1, 2024 through June 3, 2026. (100% General Fund) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:David O. Livingston, Sheriff-Coroner Report Title:GovernmentJobs.com, Inc. d/b/a NEOGOV, parent company of PowerDMS, Inc. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Sheriff-Coroner, or designee, to execute a contract with GovernmentJobs.com, Inc. d/b/a NEOGOV, parent company of PowerDMS, Inc., in an amount not to exceed $99,000 for a hosted policy management software application, for the period October 1, 2024 through June 3, 2026. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this request will result in up to $99,000 in contractual service expenditures over an approximate 32 month period and will be funded 100% by the General Fund. BACKGROUND: The Administrative Services Bureau, through the Professional Standards Division’s Planning and Research Unit, is responsible for the Office of the Sheriff's Manual development, review, and maintenance. Continuous review of the Policies and Procedures Manual is conducted by the Planning and Research Unit and all Division Commanders concerning those policies directly related to their respective divisions to ensure that policies express the Office of the Sheriff's current goals and objectives. After the policies are revised and approved, there is no mechanism currently in place to track and audit whether employees have read and acknowledged the updates to the policies. PowerDMS is a cloud-based platform that allows the Sheriff’s Office to store, distribute, and track its policies and procedures in one centralized location. It also enables the department to create and assign online training CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2779,Version:1 courses, quizzes, and surveys to ensure that staff are up to date and compliant with the latest standard. The Sheriff’s Office can also reduce the risk of liability and litigation by providing evidence of policy acknowledgment and training completion. PowerDMS capabilities will allow the Sheriff’s Office to deliver training videos,PowerPoint presentations online,or simple quizzes when policies are updated or issued which must be completed before the policy can be signed off and acknowledged;track and verify training completions and/or acknowledgement of the policy; retain and make training content available for viewing;automate training or policy review reminders to all employees; and upload and store unlimited documents. PowerDMS will integrate with PowerPolicy, a tool that helps the Sheriff’s Office create and update its policies in a streamlined process allowing for an easier review and approval process. PowerPolicy features support electronic records maintenance, including capabilities to create an online central repository with mobile app access; electronic signature tracking, reporting, and auditing; document management tools for editing, managing workflows, and audit trails; and set automatic reminders for policy renewal/review deadlines. The Professional Standards / Planning and Research Unit wants to achieve a process-dependent workflow that enables update reminders, policy authorization signoffs and training acknowledgment all saved in the system. PowerDMS is recommended as the application solution. The proposed solution will not only benefit the Planning and Research Unit but will also benefit each division in the creation, review, and approval process for all policies as well as the audit and tracking of policy acknowledgment and sign-off. Approval of this contract aligns with the terms and conditions contained in the contract between GovernmentJobs.com, Inc. d/b/a NEOGOV and the County Human Resources Department. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If the Board does not approve, the continuation of a manual process will become increasingly difficult and counter the Department’s efforts to reduce the risk of liability and litigation by providing evidence of policy acknowledgement and training. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2780 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/27/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Sheriff-Coroner, or designee, to execute a contract with Inmar Rx Solutions, Inc. for collection and disposal services for surplus and expired medications at no cost to the County, effective September 1, 2024, until the termination of the agreement by either party. (No fiscal impact) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:David O. Livingston, Sheriff-Coroner Report Title:Inmar Rx Solutions, Inc. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Sheriff-Coroner, or designee, to execute a contract with Inmar Rx Solutions, Inc. for collection and disposal services for surplus and expired medications at no cost to the County, starting September 1, 2024, until the termination of the agreement by either party. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this request will result in no cost to the County. BACKGROUND: INMAR Rx Solutions provides containers and disposal services for surplus and expired pharmaceutical medications that the public can drop off at various Office of the Sheriff facilities within the county. This sponsored consumer drug take-back program is DEA compliant and includes all supplies required to ship collected pharmaceuticals directly to the destruction facility. The Terms and Conditions include a limitation of liability provision. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If the Board does not approve, the County will not have a cost-free disposal program for surplus and expired pharmaceutical medications. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 1 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2781 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/27/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Sheriff-Coroner, or designee, to execute a contract amendment with TriTech Software Systems, a Central Square Company (formerly Tiburon, Inc.), to increase the payment limit by 337,235 to a new payment limit of $2,438,515, to provide dispatch and records systems support, for the period September 10, 2024 through September 9, 2025. (81% General Fund, 19% Federal) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:David O. Livingston, Sheriff-Coroner Report Title:Tritech Software Systems ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Sheriff-Coroner, or designee, to execute a contract with TriTech Software Systems, a Central Square Company (formerly Tiburon, Inc.), to increase the payment limit under the Master Support Agreement by $337,235 to a new payment limit of $2,438,515 to provide dispatch and records systems support for the period September 10, 2024 through September 9, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this request will result in up to $337,235 in contractual service expenditures over a 1-year period and will be funded 19% by Federal funding and 81% by the Sheriff’s Office budgeted County General Fund. BACKGROUND: Tritech Software Systems, a Central Square Company (formerly Tiburon, Inc.) provides the Office of the Sheriff with computer aided dispatch (CAD) and record management systems (RMS). Authorizing additional payments under the Master Support Agreement will renew support for these systems and the CopLogic reporting system that is integrated with CAD/RMS for the period of September 10, 2024 through September 9, 2025. The CAD/RMS system is used by the Sheriff’s Dispatch Center to document calls for service and dispatch police and Sheriff's units to those calls. The system is also used by the records division to collect data required by the state. The support will allow the CAD and RMS systems to be up and running 24/7 and provide emergency assistance if the system fails. CAD/RMS and mobile systems are mission critical applications to CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2781,Version:1 public safety. Without Tritech Software Systems supporting their products, the Office of the Sheriff runs the risk of crashing these systems without the ability to fix it. In September 2016, the Board of Supervisors approved an agreement with Tiburon, Inc., to license software for the Sheriff's Office 9-1-1 Dispatch and Records Management systems. The 9-1-1 CAD system is used by the Office of the Sheriff’s Dispatch Center, and the RMS is used by the entire Office of the Sheriff and the agencies that contract with the Sheriff's Office for law enforcement services. Tritech Software Systems, a Central Square Company, provides the County with software for the CAD system and RMS. This request will provide for systems maintenance and support for an additional year. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If the Board does not approve, the Office of the Sheriff would not be able to utilize Tritech Software Systems as support for the dispatch system, which could prevent the Office of the Sheriff from providing emergency assistance in the result of a system failure. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2782 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/27/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Sheriff-Coroner, or designee, to execute a 2024 Memorandum of Understanding with the California Department of Justice for the use of the Mobile Identification System, beginning September 1, 2024. (No fiscal impact) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:David O. Livingston, Sheriff-Coroner Report Title:Memorandum of Understanding with the California Department of Justice ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Sheriff-Coroner, or designee, to execute a 2024 Memorandum of Understanding with the California Department of Justice for the use of the Mobile Identification System, beginning September 1, 2024. FISCAL IMPACT: No fiscal impact. BACKGROUND: The Department of Justice Mobile Identification System was developed to provide a rapid identification service to participating California law enforcement agencies (LEA) utilizing a Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) certified mobile fingerprint capture device in the field. This process employs a National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) record formatted to the California Technical Finger Search (TFS) and Technical Finger Response (TFR) type of transaction via a web service protocol. The Memorandum of Understanding for the Mobile Identification System is to allow the County to utilize the system. The Mobile Identification System is essential for officers to use while on patrol so they can identify a subject within seconds. Once the fingerprints are sent to the Department of Justice, they will have instant responses to a subject's criminal history, including outstanding warrants. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2782,Version:1 If the Board does not approve the California Department of Justice Memorandum of Understanding for Mobile Identification, the Office of the Sheriff and outside agencies will not be allowed to utilize the system. Officers on patrol would not have access to receive California Law Enforcement Telecom System (CLETS) responses from the DOJ or the FBI and warrant information would not be accessible. Officers would only have access to the current local system. The current local system only informs officers if the subject has been arrested in Contra Costa County or Alameda County. This limited information may cause officers to potentially release subjects that have outstanding warrants, missing individuals or other persons of interest. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2783 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/27/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Sheriff-Coroner, or designee, to execute a contract with Bay Alarm Company, in an amount up to $67,000 to fund scholarships, classes, and recruitment efforts of the Sheriff Law Enforcement Training Center, with the Sheriff’s Charities, Inc., serving as the fiscal agent, for the period January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2026. (100% Private Sponsorship) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:David O. Livingston, Sheriff-Coroner Report Title:Bay Alarm Company Sponsorship Funding ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Sheriff-Coroner, or designee, to execute a contract renewal with Bay Alarm Company, in the amount of $67,000 for sponsorship funding designated for scholarships, classes and recruitment for the Office of the Sheriff Law Enforcement Training Center, for the period January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2026, with the Sheriff’s Charities, Inc., serving as the fiscal agent. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this request will result in $67,000 in revenue over a 2-year period. BACKGROUND: Bay Alarm Company provides scholarship funding to promote the education and training of local law enforcement recruits and officers. Additionally, Bay Alarm Company provides funding for advertisement, along with event and media support, for the recruitment of law enforcement officers. The Sponsorship and Licensing Agreement will result in $28,000 in revenue in the first year and $29,000 in revenue in the second year. Bay Alarm Company will donate an additional $5,000 in each year of the two-year term to be utilized at the discretion of the Board of Directors of Sheriff’s Charities, Inc., for such philanthropic purposes as are set forth in its Articles of Incorporation The Sponsorship and Licensing Agreement includes an indemnification provision. The indemnification clause holds the County responsible for all legal costs incurred in the defense of a claim should the County choose to CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2783,Version:1 hire counsel separate from the indemnifying party. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If the Board does not approve, it would negatively impact law enforcement efforts in the County. The County would not have assistance in advertising for recruits or promoting awareness of the local availability of courses and services or allowing for the continued curriculum that would otherwise be eliminated. The County would not have access to scholarships that would be given to qualified candidates. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2784 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/27/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Sheriff-Coroner, or designee, to apply for and accept grant funding, with the City and County of San Francisco for the 2024 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) Grant, in an initial amount of $590,588, for Homeland Security-related projects within the County, for the initial period of November 1, 2024 through December 31, 2025. (100% Federal) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:David O. Livingston, Sheriff-Coroner Report Title:2024 Urban Area Security Initiative Grant ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Sheriff-Coroner, or designee, to apply for and accept grant funding, including modifications and extensions thereof, subject to compliance with certifications, with the City and County of San Francisco for the 2024 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) Grant, in an initial amount of $590,588, for Homeland Security-related projects within the County, for the initial period of November 1, 2024 through December 31, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this request will result in an initial revenue of $590,588 and will be funded 100% by the 2024 Urban Area Security Initiative Grant from the City and County of San Francisco acting as fiscal agent for the Bay Area Urban Area Security Initiative. (CFDA/AL #97.067) BACKGROUND: The U.S. Department of Homeland Security Urban Area Security Initiative Grant Program funds high-threat, high-density urban areas' unique planning, equipment, training and exercise needs. This grant assists designated regions in building an enhanced and sustainable capacity to prevent, protect against, respond to and recover from acts of terrorism. California is home to five of these urban areas, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security designated the City and County of San Francisco as the fiscal agent for the Bay Area Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI). The projects included in this grant are the AVON C50 First Responder Respirator Kits, Patrol Active Shooter CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2784,Version:1 Kits, Training Simulator for LETC, SWAT Kinetic Breathing Tools, Chemical Detection Accusense, Portable X -Ray Sytems and a Prime Mover. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If the Board does not approve of the Office of the Sheriff entering into this agreement, the County will not receive its share of the 2024 UASI Grant funds. Risk management and planning to increase regional response capability will need to be either funded through another source or will not be performed. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2785 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/27/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Sheriff-Coroner, or designee, to execute a contract amendment with UKG Kronos Systems, LLC to increase the payment limit by $700,000 to a new payment limit of $2,000,000 and extend the term through December 8, 2025, for personnel scheduling software and automated payroll functions. (100% General Fund) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:David O. Livingston, Sheriff-Coroner Report Title:UKG Kronos Systems, LLC Workforce Telestaff ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Sheriff-Coroner, or designee, to execute a contract amendment with UKG Kronos Systems, LLC to increase the payment limit by $700,000, to a new payment limit of $2,000,000 for personnel scheduling software and automated payroll functions, and to extend the contract term expiration date from December 31, 2024 to December 8, 2025, with continued monthly service fees until terminated. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this request will result in up to $700,000 in contractual service expenditures over a 1-year period and will be funded 100% by the Sheriff’s Office General Fund allocation. BACKGROUND: The Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff Fiscal Unit is currently using UKG Kronos Systems, LLC Workforce Telestaff to manage staffing, build schedules and rosters, automate scheduling communication, and mobilize scheduling and FEMA reporting for the emergency activation of personnel during a major disaster or unusual occurrence. Kronos Workforce Telestaff is also currently used by the Office of the Sheriff's Payroll Unit to incorporate payroll integration and automation to track and manage staff time and attendance. The software, services and equipment are being purchased through the Omnia Partners LLC Purchasing Alliance, in which the County previously participated. The County agrees to the terms and conditions contained in the contract between Kronos and Cobb County, Georgia (Lead Agency Contract #18220). Contracting through the U.S. Communities Purchasing Alliance allowed the Office of the Sheriff to save over $39,000 over CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2785,Version:1 three years. The software is hosted by Kronos, which means the software and timekeeping data are stored on Kronos’ servers or its third-party hosts’ servers. The current contract provides that data will be backed up daily and adheres to industry standards (SSAE 16, SOC 1, and SOC 2) with respect to data security. As Kronos maintains employee data on their systems, Kronos requests that the County indemnify Kronos in the event any employee data in the hosted database violates any person’s right of privacy. Under the agreement, Kronos is not obligated to defend the County in the event any employee data is disclosed due to a breach of the Kronos system. The contract extension is required to align the County agreement with the annual software and services billing. The additional funds are necessary to secure ongoing systems and technical support during the final implementation phases of the Telestaff project, to include project management, program consultation, training, technical account management and assistance. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If the Board does not approve, the Office of the Sheriff will not be able to track assignments, manage day-to- day scheduling or deploy personnel for emergency events. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2786 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/27/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent to execute, on behalf of the Sheriff-Coroner, a purchase order with VMware, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $190,948 for server support and maintenance, for the period September 22, 2023 to October 4, 2026. (100% General Fund) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:David O. Livingston, Sheriff-Coroner Report Title:VMWare, Inc. ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute on behalf of the Sheriff-Coroner, a purchase order with VMware, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $190,948 for server support and maintenance, for the period September 22, 2023 to October 4, 2026. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this request will result in a one-time expenditure of $190,948 and will be funded 100% by the General Fund (Org # 2512) BACKGROUND: The Office of the Sheriff uses VMware, Inc. to create virtual servers that power the major applications on the department’s network. It is the lifeline of the Office of Sheriff’s virtual infrastructure. The SO network has four virtual centers: Dispatch, Office of Emergency Services, ARIES and Cogent. All the critical software for each location is hosted and run in the virtual environment. Maintenance and support for the Office of the Sheriff’s VMware infrastructure is needed should the department encounter an issue with the various software that cannot be addressed without vendor support. The support would help to ensure minimal downtime and inaccessibility to major SO applications. The department is seeking approval of this retroactive contract due to unintentional oversight caused by the substantial number of new contracts the Office of the Sheriff is currently handling. VMware has continued to provide services in good faith. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2786,Version:1 The Terms and Services include a limitation of liability provision. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If the Board does not approve, the support will not be renewed, leaving the Office of the Sheriff without access to vendor support for the software in the event an issue arises. The Office of the Sheriff’s major applications could possibly cease functionality for an indefinite period, which could have major public safety implications. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™ 1025 ESCOBAR STREET MARTINEZ, CA 94553CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Legislation Details (With Text) File #: Version:124-2787 Name: Status:Type:Consent Item Passed File created:In control:8/27/2024 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS On agenda:Final action:9/10/2024 9/10/2024 Title:APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent to execute, on behalf of the Sheriff-Coroner, a purchase order with Magnet Forensics, LLC, in an amount not to exceed $9,440 for the use of Axiom digital forensic software in the Office of the Sheriff Investigation Division, for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. (100% General Fund) Attachments: Action ByDate Action ResultVer.Tally approvedBOARD OF SUPERVISORS9/10/2024 1 Pass To:Board of Supervisors From:David O. Livingston, Sheriff-Coroner Report Title:Magnet Forensics, LLC ☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee RECOMMENDATIONS: APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute on behalf of the Sheriff-Coroner, a purchase order with Magnet Forensics, LLC, in an amount not to exceed $9,440 for the use of the Axiom software in the Office of the Sheriff Investigation Division, for the period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. FISCAL IMPACT: Approval of this request will result in a one-time payment of $9,440 and will be funded 100% by the General Fund. BACKGROUND: Magnet Forensics, LLC, a technology company, plays a crucial role in law enforcement operations. Magnet Forensics, LLC’s AXIOM software is the primary digital forensic software for parsing data extracted from phones, computers, tablets, the Cloud and media storage. In addition, this is the only software the Office of the Sheriff can use to parse data from Cloud search warrant returns, such as Facebook, Snapchat, Instagram, Google, Discord and Apple. The AXIOM software is also the primary tool used to generate forensic reports regarding artifacts of interest (evidentiary artifacts) for all cases ranging from Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) to Homicide, and it is the preferred software for presentation of DFIR (Digital Forensics and Incident Response) evidentiary data to Prosecutors and Investigators. The Office of the Sheriff’s On-Scene Digital Forensics and Incident Response (DFIR) and Triage capabilities during search warrants assist agencies throughout the Bay Area. The digital forensics tools, especially the Axiom licenses software, are a mission critical to the Office of the Sheriff. The Axiom software is used as the primary digital forensic software by the CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 1 of 2 powered by Legistar™ File #:24-2787,Version:1 Office of the Sheriff for parsing data and to generate forensic reports regarding evidentiary artifacts The department is requesting approval of this retroactive license agreement due to the conversion of the agreement from a purchase order to a service contract. This agreement includes a limitation of liability and indemnification from the County to Magnet Forensics, LLC. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: If the Board does not approve, the Office of the Sheriff will not have access to significant software upgrades to the Axiom forensic software, which would result in less forensic artifacts the Office of the Sheriff can parse out from acquired data and the inability to process search warrant returns from Cloud service providers. CONTRA COSTA COUNTY Printed on 9/13/2024Page 2 of 2 powered by Legistar™